Síndrome de Gitelman: cuándo sospecharlo / Gitelman syndrome, when to suspect it

Las tubulopatías son un grupo heterogéneo de entidades definidas por anomalías de la función tubular renal. El síndrome de Gitelman, objeto de nuestro artículo, está causado por mutaciones inactivantes del gen SLC12A3, que codifica el cotransportador Na-Cl sensible a tiazidas del túbulo contorneado distal, produciendo así una pérdida urinaria de Cl-Na. Se exponen tres casos clínicos de síndrome de Gitelman, cada uno con una clínica de presentación. La finalidad de este artículo es sensibilizar al lector en esta tubulopatía y ayudar en su diagnóstico precoz (AU)

Tubulopathies are a heterogeneous group of entities defined by abnormalities of renal tubular function. Gitelman syndrome, the subject of our article, is caused by inactivating mutations of the SLC12A3 gene, which encodes the thiazide-sensitive Na-Cl cotransporter of the distal convoluted tubule, thus producing a urinary loss of Cl-Na.Three clinical cases of Gitelman syndrome are presented, each with a clinical presentation. The purpose of this article is to familiarize the reader with this tubulopathy and to help in its early diagnosis. (AU)

Hipopotasemia e hipertensión arterial: es importante no infravalorarlas / Hypokalemia and arterial hypertension: it is important not to underestimate them

El síndrome de exceso aparente de mineralocorticoides es un trastorno autosómico recesivo caracterizado por hipertensión e hipopotasemia. Hay menos de 100 casos descritos en el mundo, debidos a mutaciones en el gen HSD11B2 (16q22). Clínicamente se caracteriza por poliuria y polidipsia de inicio habitualmente en primera infancia, fallo de medro e hipertensión arterial grave, con niveles bajos de renina y aldosterona, hipopotasemia, alcalosis metabólica y nefrocalcinosis. El pronóstico es malo, pudiendo fallecer los pacientes por secuelas de hipertensión arterial grave (accidentes cerebrovasculares, insuficiencia cardiaca y renal). Sin embargo, el pronóstico con tratamiento adecuado parece ser bueno (AU)

Apparent mineralcorticoid excess syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by hypertension and hypokalemia. There are less than 100 cases described in the world, due to mutations in the HSD11B2 gene (16q22). Clinically it is characterized by polyuria and polydipsia with onset usually in early childhood, failure to thrive and severe arterial hypertension, with low renin and aldosterone levels, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and nephrocalcinosis. The prognosis is poor, with the possibility of death due to sequelae of severe arterial hypertension (stroke, heart failure and renal failure). However, the prognosis with adequate treatment appears to be good. (AU)

Horacio Quiroga y su relación con los venenos / Horacio Quiroga and his relationship with poisons

Resumen La vida y obra del literato Horacio Quiroga ha estado signada por venenos en varias oportunidades. Profundo conocedor de la selva misionera, plasmó en sus personajes el conocimiento de ponzoñas y venenos que poseía su flora y su fauna. En cuanto a su vida personal y la de sus familiares, el veneno estuvo presente hasta sus últimos días. Se describen en este trabajo tanto los venenos detallados en su obra como también el desenlace de su suicidio con cianuro de potasio.

Abstract The life and the work of the writer Horacio Quiroga has been marked by poisons and venoms on several occasions. Connoisseur of the flora and fauna of the Misiones jungle, he reflected in his characters the knowledge of poisons and venoms that he possessed. As for his personal life and that of his family, the poison was present until his last days. Both the poisons and venoms detailed in his work as well as the outcome of his suicide with potassium cyanide are detailed in this work.

Canales de iones potasio en la dinámica contráctil del músculo liso arterial inducida por Camphenol Plus

RESUMEN Introducción: El Camphenol Plus es un derivado clorofenólico empleado como medicación intraconducto durante los tratamientos pulporradiculares en Estomatología. Son escasos los reportes científicos sobre el papel de los canales de iones potasio en la dinámica contráctil del músculo liso arterial inducida por dicho medicamento. Objetivo: Determinar el papel de los canales de iones potasio en la dinámica contráctil del músculo liso arterial inducida por Camphenol Plus. Método: Se realizó una investigación experimental preclínica en el Instituto de Fisiología "Oscar Langerdorff", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Rostock, Alemania, entre octubre y diciembre de 2018, con el empleo de 30 anillos de aorta obtenidos de 10 ratas Wistar (n=10). Las preparaciones biológicas se colocaron en baño de órganos y se preactivaron con solución Krebs concentrada en iones potasio, registrándose luego la tensión desarrollada por el músculo liso vascular tras la adición de soluciones de Camphenol Plus durante diferentes intervalos de tiempo. Se utilizaron las pruebas de Wilcoxon y U de Mann-Whitney. Resultados: El 31,4 % de la musculatura lisa vascular se relajó por acción del Camphenol Plus tras la preactivación con solución Krebs concentrada en iones potasio. El mayor descenso del tono vascular se produjo con el uso de soluciones del medicamento al 7 % entre el primer y tercer minutos. Conclusiones : El efecto vasorrelajante in vitro producido por Camphenol Plus sobre el músculo liso arterial está mediado por canales de iones potasio sensibles a voltaje, a calcio y a trifosfato de adenosina del endotelio vascular y el sarcolema.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Camphenol Plus is a chlorophenolic derivative commonly used as an intra - duct medication for pulporadicular treatments in Dentistry. Scientific reports about the use of this medication on the role of potassium ion channels in the contractile dynamics of induced arterial smooth muscle are low. Objective: To determine the role of potassium ion channels in the contractile dynamics of Camphenol Plus - induced arterial smooth muscle. Method: A preclinical experimental investigation was performed at the "Oscar Langerdorff" Institute of Physiology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany, between October and December 2018. A total of 30 aortic rings obtained from 10 Wistar rats (n=10) were used. The biological preparations were placed in an organ bath and preactivated with Krebs solution concentrated in potassium ions, afterwards it was recorded the tension developed by the vascular smooth muscle after applying the Camphenol Plus solutions in different time intervals. The Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon test were applied. Results: The 31.4% of vascular smooth muscle was relaxed by the effect of Camphenol Plus after preactivation with Krebs solution concentrated in potassium ions. The greatest decrease in vascular tone occurred between the first and third minutes after the use of the drug solutions prepared at 7 %. Conclusions: The in vitro vasorelaxant effect produced by the Camphenol Plus medication on arterial smooth muscle is mediated by the potassium ion channels sensitive to voltage, calcium and the adenosine triphosphate of the vascular endothelium and sarcolemma.

RESUMO Introdução: Camphenol Plus é um derivado clorofenólico utilizado como medicação intracanal durante tratamentos pulporradiculares em Estomatologia. Existem poucos relatos científicos sobre o papel dos canais iônicos de potássio na dinâmica contrátil do músculo liso arterial induzida pela referida droga. Objetivo: Determinar o papel dos canais iônicos de potássio na dinâmica contrátil do músculo liso arterial induzida por Camphenol Plus. Método: Uma investigação experimental pré-clínica foi realizada no Instituto de Fisiologia "Oscar Langerdorff" da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Rostock, Alemanha, entre outubro e dezembro de 2018, utilizando 30 anéis aórticos obtidos de 10 ratos Wistar (n=10). As preparações biológicas foram colocadas em banho de órgãos e pré-ativadas com solução de Krebs concentrada em íons potássio, registrando-se então a tensão desenvolvida pelo músculo liso vascular após a adição de soluções de Camphenol Plus em diferentes intervalos de tempo. Foram utilizados os testes U de Wilcoxon e Mann-Whitney. Resultados: 31,4% da musculatura lisa vascular relaxada pela ação do Camphenol Plus após pré-ativação com solução de Krebs concentrada em íons potássio. A maior diminuição do tônus vascular ocorreu com o uso de soluções medicamentosas a 7% entre o primeiro e o terceiro minutos. Conclusões: O efeito vasorrelaxante in vitro produzido pelo Camphenol Plus no músculo liso arterial é mediado por canais de íons de potássio sensíveis à voltagem, trifosfato de cálcio e adenosina do endotélio vascular e do sarcolema.

Hipokalemia y muerte súbita cardiaca en personas sin enfermedad cardiaca estructural: Presentación de caso y revisión sistemática / Hypokalemia and sudden cardiac death in people without structural heart disease: Case presentation and systematic review

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio fue sintetizar la evidencia sobre las causas de muerte súbita cardiaca (MSC) asociada a hipokalemia en individuos de ≥15 a <65 años de edad sin cardiopatía estructural. Reporte de caso. Reportamos un caso y recopilamos casos de MSC siguiendo la estrategia PECO. Realizamos una búsqueda bibliográfica hasta el 30 de noviembre del 2021. Incluimos 25 casos. La edad media fue 33,8 ± 2,4 años. Del total de casos, 60% fueron varones y 60% correspondieron a etiologías adquiridas. La tirotoxicosis fue la etiología del 8% de casos. El intervalo QTc estuvo prolongado en 90% de casos en los que se pudo registrar. El 60% de casos fueron extrahospitalarios. Solo el 24% de los episodios resultaron en muerte. Conclusiones. La tirotoxicosis es una causa rara de parada cardiaca súbita (PCS) hipokalémica. La PCS parece asociarse a mejores clínicos comparada con la PCS asociada a kiperkalemia o normokalemia.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to synthesize the evidence on the causes of sudden cardiac death (SCD) associated with hypokalemia in individuals ≥15 to <65 years of age without structural heart disease. Case report. We reported a case and collected SCD cases following the PECO strategy. We conducted a bibliographic search of the literature published up to November 30, 2021. We included 25 cases. The mean age was 33.8 ± 2.4 years. Of the total cases, 60% were male and 60% corresponded to acquired etiologies. Thyrotoxicosis was the etiology of 8% of cases. The QTc interval was prolonged in 90% of the cases in which it could be recorded. Sixty percent of cases occurred out of hospital. Only 24% of episodes resulted in death. Conclusions. Thyrotoxicosis is a rare cause of hypokalemic sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Hypokalemic SCA seems to be associated with better clinical results compared to SCA associated with hyperkalemia or normokalemia.

Carta de control de Physella acuta usando tóxico de referencia. Intervalo de tolerancia comparado con el intervalo de confianza / Physella acuta control chart using reference toxicant. Tolerance interval vs confidence interval

Varias especies de organismos representativos de los diferentes ecosistemas son utilizados como biomodelos para evaluar el impacto ambiental de productos contaminantes del medio ambiente, así como de productos químicos y bioproductos que son empleados como fertilizantes y controladores de plagas en la agricultura. Se determinó la sensibilidad toxicológica cuantificada por la Concentración Letal Media (CL50) del biomodelo Physella acuta, expuesto al compuesto de referencia dicromato de potasio. Se partió de una concentración de 120 mg/L y se prepararon 7 diluciones decreciente (1:2) con cuatro réplicas y un grupo control sin tratamiento. Juveniles de Physella acuta fueron expuestos durante 96 h a las concentraciones del tóxico de referencia. El efecto cuantificado fue la mortalidad de los organismos. De un total de 20 estimaciones de la CL50 se obtuvo un valor promedio de 15,54 mg/L con una desviación estándar (S) de 5,92. Se determinó además, la precisión intralaboratorio del bioensayo con el tóxico de referencia mediante la estimación del coeficiente de variación (CV = 38,09 %). El intervalo de tolerancia superior e inferior de la CL50 al 95% de confianza fue de 27,38 mg/L y 3,37 mg/L, respectivamente. Se recomienda el uso del intervalo de tolerancia y no del intervalo de confianza para realizar la carta de control. Se concluye que es factible el uso del Physella acuta como biomodelo para ensayos ecotoxicológicos. (AU)

Several species of representative organisms of the different ecosystems are used as biomodels to evaluate the environmental impact of polluting products of the environment, as well as of chemical products and bioproducts that are used as fertilizers and pest controllers in agriculture. The toxicological sensitivity quantified by the Mean Lethal Concentration (LC50) of the Physella acuta biomodel, exposed to the reference compound Potassium Dichromate (K2Cr2O7), was determined. Seven serial concentrations (1:2) were evaluated with four replications and a control group without treatment. Juveniles of Physella acuta were exposed for 96 h to the concentrations of the reference toxicant. The quantified effect was the mortality of the organisms. From a total of 20 estimates of the LC50, an average value of 15.54 mg/L was obtained with a standard deviation (S) of 5,92. Furthermore, the intralaboratory precision of the bioassay with the reference toxicant was determined by estimating the coefficient of variation (CV = 38,09%). The upper and lower tolerance interval of the LC50 at 95% confidence was 27,38 mg/L and 3,37 mg/L, respectively. The use of the tolerance interval and not the confidence interval is recommended to make the control chart. It is concluded that the use of Physella acuta as a biomodel for ecotoxicological tests is feasible. (AU)

Efecto fisiológico de elicitores en el crecimiento y desarrollo de papa (Solanum tuberosum L.) variedad Diacol Capiro / Physiological effect of elicitors on the growth and development of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) variety Diacol Capiro

RESUMEN La utilización de elicitores es frecuente en la inducción de diferentes respuestas relacionadas con la resistencia sistémica de las plantas; no obstante, no se ha caracterizado el gasto metabólico que generan en el cultivo de papa variedad Diacol Capiro, que es la más utilizada para el procesamiento industrial en Colombia, debido a su calidad y alta producción. En esta investigación, se evaluó el efecto de cuatro elicitores en el crecimiento y desarrollo del cultivo de papa, en la vereda El Toval, del municipio de Tutazá, Boyacá. El diseño experimental fue en parcelas divididas, en donde la parcela principal fue la etapa fenológica, en la que se hizo la aplicación (E1; formación de tallos secundarios), época dos (E2; floración) y época tres (E3; aplicación tanto en formación de tallos secundarios como en floración) y la subparcela, con los elicitores aplicados (glucosamina, ácido γ-amino butírico, fosfito de potasio y ácido salicílico) y el testigo sin aplicación. Los datos fueron tomados a los 60, 80 y 100 días después de la siembra, teniendo como variables: altura de la planta, número de foliolos, clorofilas totales, eficiencia fotosintética, biomasa seca y producción. La glucosamina fue el tratamiento que obtuvo menores resultados en la mayoría de variables evaluadas con respecto al testigo; asimismo, los elicitores tienen efectos diferentes, dependiendo del estado fenológico del cultivo, especialmente, en la época de formación de tallos secundarios. El ácido salicílico (AS) presentó un comportamiento estadísticamente similar al del testigo, mientras que los demás elicitores aplicados, disminuyeron la producción de papa.

ABSTRACT Elicitors are frequently employed for the induction of different responses related to the systemic resistance of plants, however, it has not been fully characterized in the metabolic expenditure generated in the cultivation of the potato variety Diacol Capiro, the most planted for industrial processing in Colombia due to its quality and production. In this research, the effect of four elicitors on the growth and development of the potato crop was evaluated, in the municipality of Tutazá, Boyacá. The experimental design was divided plots, being the main plot the phenological stage in which the application was made (E1; formation of secondary stems), season two (E2; flowering) and season three (E3; application both in formation of secondary stems as in flowering) and the subplot, the applied elicitors (glucosamine, γ-amino butyric acid, potassium phosphite and salicylic acid) and the control without application. Data were taken 60, 80 and 100 days after sowing, having as variables: plant height, number of leaflets, total chlorophylls, photosynthetic efficiency, dry biomass and production. With the use of glucosamine the lowest results were obtained in most of the variables evaluated with respect to the control, likewise, elicitors had different effects depending on the phenological state of the crop, especially at the moment of secondary stem formation. Salicylic acid (AS) presented a statistically similar behavior to that of the control while the other applied elicitors decreased potato production.

Suicidio con cloruro de potasio: Reporte de un caso / Suicide with potassium chloride: Case report

Resumen El suicidio es el uso deliberado de violencia externa con la intención de quitarse la vida, y el uso de medicamentos es una forma en la que esta se puede consumar, el cloruro de potasio es uno de los medicamentos que en concentraciones elevadas tienen efectos letales, por lo que el objetivo de este artículo científico es detallar características farmacológicas del cloruro de potasio, y los elementos a considerar en el estudio postmorten de cadáveres cuando se sospecha de una intoxicación por cloruro de potasio con manera de muerte suicida; con la metodología de estudio de artículos científicos, exposición de un caso clínico y discusión de la importancia del análisis de los elementos aportados y solicitados durante la investigación médico legal, también la especial y delicada importancia de una correcta recolección de muestras biológicas y continentes de medicamentos para el estudio toxicológico y químicoanalítico; de esta manera se concluye que el Cloruro de potasio es un fármaco con efectos colaterales dañinos en la función eléctrica cardiaca, la determinación de la manera de muerte es un trabajo complejo para el médico forense en este tipo de casos, y los resultados de la pericias complementarias a la autopsia tienen mucha importancia para el análisis de este tipo de casos.

Abstract Suicide is the deliberate use of external violence with the intention of taking one's life, and the use of medications is one way in which this can be consumed, potassium chloride is one of the medications that in high concentrations have lethal effects, Therefore, the objective of this scientific article is to detail the pharmacological characteristics of potassium chloride, and the elements to be considered in the postmortem study of corpses when potassium chloride poisoning is suspected as a suicidal death; with the methodology of study of scientific articles, presentation of a clinical case and discussion of the importance of the analysis of the elements provided and requested during the medical-legal research, also the special and delicate importance of a correct collection of biological samples and drug containers for toxicological and chemical analysis; In this way, it is concluded that potassium chloride is a drug with harmful collateral effects on cardiac electrical function, determining the manner of death is a complex job for the forensic doctor in this type of case, and the results of the expertise complementary to the autopsy are very important for the analysis of this type of case.

Accidental epidural catheter infusion of potassium chloride for postoperative analgesia: A case report.

An infusion of 100 cc of 0,2% potassium chloride was accidental performed through a thoracic epidural catheter, inserted to perioperative analgesia, to a 66 years old man who was scheduled for right hemicolectomy, 48 h after surgery. Paresis of upper limbs, flaccid paralysis of lower limbs and a sensitive level at T8 was observed. An epidural lavage with an initial dose of 20 cc of saline was slowly injected, followed for a saline infusion of 20 cc per hour. Neurologic signs were totally reverted some hours later and 24 h after the incident the physical exam was normal. We reviewed the clinical presentation of the complication and its mechanisms, the more frequent clinical evolution, as well as treatment measures and strategies to prevent the incident.

[Nutritional composition and nutritional claims of Canary Islands banana]. / Composición nutricional y declaraciones nutricionales del plátano de Canarias.

INTRODUCTION: Objectives: Canary Islands bananas represent the only native cultivar of Musa spp. present in Spanish territory. Since 2013, it has the Protected Geographical Indication label, which confers an additional value to this fruit. Bananas from the Canary Islands have certain organoleptic properties that make them stand out from among other commonly consumed Musa spp. However, to date, no studies have been reported including an extended nutritional composition of this product. Methods: the present work shows the main nutritional components of bananas from the Canary Islands as determined by different analytical techniques (mainly liquid chromatography, spectroscopy, spectrophotometry, and polarimetry) when at their best in terms of ripeness (grade 6). Moreover, potential nutrition claims relating to their composition were proposed using the current legislation. Results: the fruit's remarkable content, edible portion, in vitamin B6 (0.52 g/100 g), dietary fiber (2.22 g/100 g), potassium (419.9 mg/100 g), and vitamin C (12.35 mg/100 g) should be highlighted. Additionally, these components could appear on nutritional labeling as claims, according to current European regulations. Conclusions: a daily consumption of one Canary Islands banana contributes to the recommended dietary intake of vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. The high nutritional value of this fruit enhances its presence in the Mediterranean eating pattern, being remarkable as a local product with excellent nutritional properties.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Objetivos: el plátano de Canarias es el único fruto del género Musa que se produce en territorio español. Desde el año 2013 se cataloga como un alimento con Indicación Geográfica Protegida (IGP). El plátano de Canarias presenta características propias a nivel organoléptico que lo diferencian de otros frutos de consumo del mismo género como la banana. Sin embargo, hasta la fecha no se habían realizado estudios detallados sobre su composición nutricional y las posibles declaraciones nutricionales derivadas de su composición. Métodos: en el presente trabajo se muestran los resultados del análisis bromatológico del plátano de Canarias, realizado a través de distintas técnicas (cromatografía liquida, espectroscopia, espectrofotometría y polarimetría) en un estado óptimo de maduración del fruto (estadio 6). Adicionalmente, se hizo uso de la legislación vigente concerniente a las declaraciones de la composición nutricional de alimentos (Reglamento N.º 1169/2011) para esclarecer aquellas atribuibles al plátano. Resultados: el plátano de Canarias es un alimento con alto contenido por porción comestible en vitamina B6 (0,52 g/100 g) y fuente de potasio (419,9 mg/100 g), fibra dietética total (2,22 g/100 g) y vitamina C (12,35 mg/100 g) de manera natural, de acuerdo con la legislación vigente en materia de etiquetado alimentario. Conclusiones: la ingesta diaria de un plátano de Canarias contribuye a alcanzar el consumo recomendado de tres piezas de fruta al día, aportando unos valores de referencia de nutrientes (VRN) óptimos de vitaminas (B6, C), minerales (potasio) y fibra dietética, con el consiguiente valor añadido a nivel nutricional que pone de manifiesto su importancia como alimento de producción local y su incorporación como tal en el contexto de una dieta saludable.

Accidental epidural catheter infusion of potassium chloride for postoperative analgesia: A case report. / Infusión accidental de cloruro de potasio a través de un catéter epidural para analgesia postoperatoria: reporte de caso clínico.

An infusion of 100cc of 0,2% potassium chloride was accidental performed through a thoracic epidural catheter, inserted to perioperative analgesia, to a 66years old man who was scheduled for right hemicolectomy, 48hours after surgery. Paresis of upper limbs, flaccid paralysis of lower limbs and a sensitive level at T8 was observed. An epidural lavage with an initial dose of 20cc of saline was slowly injected, followed for a saline infusion of 20cc per hour. Neurologic signs were totally reverted some hours later and 24hours after the incident the physical exam was normal. We reviewed the clinical presentation of the complication and its mechanisms, the more frequent clinical evolution, as well as treatment measures and strategies to prevent the incident.

Epidemiología de la Onicomicosis Pedis en adultos hospitalizados en un servicio de medicina en un hospital de tercer nivel en Chile / Epidemiology of Onychomycosis pedisinhospitalized adults at the internal medicine ward of a high complexity hospital in Chile

La prevalencia global de la onicomicosis pedis es de 4,3%, y en hospitalizados puede llegar hasta 8,9%. Aun así, se propone que está ampliamente subdiagnosticada. Personas añosas con comorbilidades presentan mayor riesgo de onicomicosis pedis y de sus complicaciones. Se examinaron aleatoriamente a 64 pacientes hospitalizados en el Servicio de Medicina del Hospital San José. A aquellos con signos clínicos de onicomicosis pedis se les realizó un examen micológico directo (MD) y estudio histopatológico de un corte de uña teñido con PAS (Bp/PAS). Muestra de 64 pacientes, un 78,1% presentó onicomicosis pedis clínica y en un 70,3% se confirmó el diagnóstico con MD y/o Bp/PAS positivo. De los pacientes con onicomicosis confirmada, el promedio de edad fue de 67,8 +/- 12,3 años. Un 44% correspondió al sexo femenino y un 56% al sexo masculino. La onicomicosis pedis en el servicio de medicina interna del Hospital San José es una condición frecuente. El conjunto de MD y Bp/PAS podría ser considerado como una buena alternativa diagnóstica. (AU)

Onychomycosis of the toenails has a global prevalence of 4,3% and can reach up to 8,9% in hospitalized patients. It has been hypothesized that it is widely under diagnosed. Aged patients with multiple diseases have an increased risk of Onychomycosis and its complications. 64 patients of the internal medicine ward were randomly selected. Those who had clinical signs of onychomycosis of the toenails were tested with direct microscopy and histological study of the nail plate with PAS staining. Of the 64 patients, 78,1% (50) had clinical signs of onychomycosis of the toenails and in 70,3% (45) the diagnosis was confirmed either by direct microscopy and/or by histological study of the nail plate with PAS staining. The mean age for the group with onychomycosis was 67,8 +/- 12,3 ages. 44% were female and 56% were male. Onychomycosis of the toenails is a frequent condition at the internal medicine ward of the San José Hospital. The direct microscopy together with the histological study of the nail plate with PAS staining seem to be a good diagnosis alternative. (AU)

Impact on clinical outcomes and health costs of deranged potassium levels in patients with chronic cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal conditions.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Potassium derangements are frequent among patients with chronic cardiovascular conditions. Studies on the associations between potassium derangements and clinical outcomes have yielded mixed findings, and the implications for health care expenditure are unknown. We assessed the population-based associations between hyperkalemia, hypokalemia and clinical outcomes and health care costs, in patients with chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and ischemic heart disease. METHODS: Population-based, longitudinal study including up to 36 269 patients from a health care area with at least one of the above-mentioned conditions. We used administrative, hospital and primary care databases. Participants were followed up between 2015 and 2017, were aged ≥ 55 years and had at least 1 potassium measurement. Four analytic designs were used to evaluate prevalent and incident cases and the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors. RESULTS: Hyperkalemia was twice as frequent as hypokalemia. On multivariable-adjusted analyses, hyperkalemia was robustly and significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause death (HR from Cox regression models ranging from 1.31-1.68) and with an increased odds of a yearly health care expenditure >85th percentile (OR, 1.21-1.29). Associations were even stronger in hypokalemic patients (HR for all-cause death, 1.92-2.60; OR for health care expenditure> percentile 85th, 1.81-1.85). CONCLUSIONS: Experimental studies are needed to confirm whether the prevention of potassium derangements reduces mortality and health care expenditure in these chronic conditions. Until then, our findings provide observational evidence on the potential importance of maintaining normal potassium levels.

Trastornos electrolíticos inducidos por fármacos y sustancias tóxicas / Electrolyte disorders induced by drugs and toxic substances

Las enfermedades pueden generar un desequilibrio de electrolitos como parte de su fisiopatología, al igual que los medicamentos usados crónicamente y algunas sustancias tóxicas disponibles en nuestro medio. A pesar de todos los datos estadísticos existentes, la incidencia global de los trastornos electrolíticos secundarios a fármacos o sustancias tóxicas permanece desconocida, y, posiblemente, subregistrada; por lo tanto, el objetivo de esta revisión es analizar los trastornos electrolíticos que causan algunos medicamentos y sustancias tóxicas, y describir el mecanismo a través del cual se producen las alteraciones, en particular, del sodio, potasio, magnesio, calcio y fósforo, con el fin de alertar a los profesionales de la salud en el momento de enfrentarse a este tipo de condiciones en su práctica clínica. El conocimiento de los efectos adversos relacionados con medicamentos y tóxicos es importante para prevenir, identificar y gestionar de forma eficaz, complicaciones que son potencialmente peligrosas. Esta revisión pretende ser un referente de apoyo para los profesionales de la salud en estas situaciones

Diseases can generate an electrolyte imbalance as part of their pathophysiology, as well as chronic use of some medications, and toxic substances available in our environment. Despite all the separate statistical data, the overall incidence of fluid and electrolyte disorders secondary to drugs or toxic substances remains unknown, and possibly underreported; therefore, the objective of this review is to analyze electrolyte disorders caused by some medications and toxic substances, and describe the mechanism through which changes in sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus occur, in particular, in order to alert health professionals when facing this type of conditions in their clinical practice. Knowledge of drug and toxic-related adverse effects is important to effectively prevent, identify, and manage complications that can be potentially life-threatening. This review intends to be a reference for supporting health professionals in these situations

Set of Simulators of the Electrophysiology of the A-Type Potassium Current (IA) in Neurons / Conjunto de Simuladores de la Electrofisiología de la Corriente de Potasio Tipo-A (IA) en Neuronas

Abstract The A-type potassium current (IA) participates in important brain functions, including neuronal excitability, synaptic integration, and regulation of action potential patterns and firing frequency. Based on the characterization of its electrophysiological properties by current and voltage clamp techniques, mathematical models have been developed that reproduce IA function. For such models, it is necessary to numerically solve equations and utilize hardware with special speed and performance characteristics. Since specific software for studying IA is not found on the Internet, the aim of this work was to develop a set of simulators grouped into three computer programs: (1) IA Current, (2) IA Constant-V Curves and (3) IA AP Train. These simulators provide a virtual reproduction of experiments on neurons with the possibility of setting the current and voltage, which allows for the study of the electrophysiological and biophysical characteristics of IA and its effect on the train of action potentials. The mathematical models employed were derived from the work of Connor et al., giving rise to Hodgkin-Huxley type models. The programs were developed in Visual Basic® and the differential equation systems were simultaneously solved numerically. The resulting system represents a breakthrough in the ability to replicate IA activity in neurons.

Resumen La corriente de potasio tipo-A (IA) tiene importantes funciones cerebrales como: excitabilidad neuronal, integración sináptica y regulación de patrones de potenciales de acción y la frecuencia de disparo. Sus propiedades electrofisiológicas se han caracterizado mediante técnicas de fijación de corriente y de voltaje. A partir de estos conocimientos se desarrollaron modelos matemáticos que reproducen su función. La cantidad de ecuaciones a resolver hace que se requiera de hardware con velocidad y potencia especiales. Un software específico para el estudio propio de la corriente IA no se ha encontrado en Internet. En este trabajo se presenta un conjunto de simuladores agrupados en tres programas de cómputo: (1) Corriente IA, (2) Curvas Constante-V y (3) Tren-IA, que permiten reproducir los experimentos con técnicas de fijación de corriente y de voltaje para estudiar las características electrofisiológicas y biofísicas de la corriente IA, e investigar el efecto que tiene en el tren de potenciales de acción. Los modelos matemáticos utilizados fueron derivados de los trabajos de Connor et al., dando origen a modelos tipo Hodgkin y Huxley. Los programas fueron desarrollados en Visual Basic®. Los sistemas de ecuaciones diferenciales fueron resueltos simultáneamente de forma numérica. Los programas desarrollados contribuyen a solucionar la carencia de este tipo de programas.

Esporotricosis: presentación de un caso inusual / An unusual presentation of sporotrichosis: a case report

La esporotricosis es una micosis subcutánea de evolución crónica que puede afectar a humanos y animales, causada por el complejo Sporothrix schenckii, se considera un padecimiento ocupacional y su vía de entrada es a través de traumatismos, es frecuente en niños y adolescentes. Se comunica el caso de una adolescente de 12 años, con historia clínica de un año de evolución de causas no bien identificadas de dermatosis facial localizada en región pre-auricular izquierda, constituida por una placa eritematosa, escamosa, indurada, de bordes definidos. Se confirmó el diagnóstico de esporotricosis cutánea fija por el aislamiento en el cultivo y biopsia de lesión. La paciente fue dada de alta con tratamiento de yoduro de potasio durante dos meses.

Sporotrichosis is a chronic subcutaneous mycosis that can affect humans and animals caused by Sporothrix schenckii complex, it is considered an occupational disease and its route of entry is through injuries, it is common in children and adolescents. A 12-year-old female patient with a lesion of one year of evolution, not well identified causes of facial dermatosis localized in left preauricular region, consisting of an erythematous, scaly, indurated and defined edges. The diagnosis of fixed cutaneous sporotrichosis by isolation in culture and wound biopsy was confirmed. The patient was discharged with potassium iodide treatment for two months.

Determinación de bromato de potasio en panes expedidos en supermercados de la ciudad de La Paz-gestión 2019 / Determination of potassium bromate in breads issued in supermarkets in the city of La Paz-gestión 2019

INTRODUCCIÓN: el bromato de potasio es una sustancia mejoradora del pan que actualmente está prohibida para su uso en la elaboración del pan porque se considera nociva para el ser humano, produciendo principalmente daños gastrointestinales. Es así que los organismos de control de alimentos prohíben su uso completamente, al igual que la NB 39007:2012 harina y derivados-productos panificados-requisitos en su tercera revisión, en nuestro país. OBJETIVO: determinar la presencia del bromato de potasio en panes expedidos en supermercados de la ciudad de La Paz. MÉTODOS: el método cualitativo para Bromatos /Yodatos y el método indirecto con el reactivo fucsina bisulfito fueron los métodos oficiales aplicados para la determinación de bromato de potasio. RESULTADOS: el porcentaje de muestras de un total de 13 panes, con presencia de bromatos es de 15,38 %, lo que demuestra que el control realizado por los entes oficiales de control ha ido aumentando en la última gestión, sin embargo, llama la atención que aún se encuentre la presencia de bromato de potasio, siendo que es un aditivo de uso prohibido en nuestro país. CONCLUSIONES: comparando los métodos estandarizados para el estudio, el método cualitativo para bromatos /yodatos presenta mayor eficacia que el método indirecto con el reactivo fucsina bisulfito. Al encontrar un porcentaje de panes que contiene bromato de potasio, verificamos que los controles por los entes oficiales no se realizan constantemente o no quedan registrados.

INTRODUCTION: potassium bromate is a bread improving substance that is currently prohibited for use in making bread because it is considered harmful to humans, mainly causing gastrointestinal damage. Thus, the food control bodies prohibit its use completely, as well as NB 39007: 2012 flour and derivatives-baked products-requirements in its third revision, in our country. OBJECTIVE: to determine the presence of potassium bromate in breads shipped in supermarkets in the city of La Paz. METHODS: the qualitative method for bromates/Iodates and the Indirect. Method with the fuchsin bisulfite reagent were the official methods applied for the determination of potassium bromate. RESULTS: the percentage of samples from a total of 13 breads, with the presence of bromates is 15.38%, which shows that the control carried out by the official control entities has been increasing in the last administration, however, calls the attention that the presence of potassium bromate is still found, since it is an additive forbidden in our country. CONCLUSIONS: comparing the standardized methods for the study, the Qualitative Method for Bromates / Iodates presents greater efficiency than the indirect method with the fuchsin bisulfite reagent. By finding a percentage of bread that contains potassium bromate, we verify that the controls by official entities are not carried out constantly or are not recorded.

Severe hypokalemia and rebound hyperkalemia during barbiturate coma in patients with severe traumatic brain injury.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the incidence of severe potassium disturbances during barbiturate coma therapy in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), and the characteristics of these patients. METHODS: The study comprised 37 patients with severe TBI who were treated for barbiturate coma between 2015 and 2017 in level 3 intensive care units of two hospitals. RESULTS: No potassium disturbance occurred in 14 patients. Seventeen patients developed mild-moderate hypokalemia (2.6-3.5mEq/L), and 6 patients developed severe hypokalemia (<2.5mEq/L) following the induction of barbiturate therapy. The incidence of mild-to-severe barbiturate-induced hypokalemia was 62.2% and the rate of severe hypokalemia was 16.2%. The mean potassium supply per day during thiopentone therapy was statistically significantly different between patients with mild-to-moderate hypokalemic and those with severe hypokalemic (p<0.001). Four of 6 patients with severe hypokalemia developed rebound hyperkalemia exceeding 6mEq/L following the cessation of barbiturate infusion. The nadir potassium concentration was 1.5mEq/L and the highest value was 6.8mEq/L. The mean time to reach nadir potassium concentrations was 2.8 days. The mortality rate of the 6 patients was 66.7%. Of the 2 survivors of severe hypokalemia, the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) on discharge and the extended GOS one year after the trauma were 5 and 8 respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Severe hypokalemia refractory to medical treatment and rebound hyperkalemia is a serious adverse effect of thiopentone coma therapy in patients with severe TBI. Excessive and aggressive potassium replacement during the barbiturate-induced hypokalemia period must be avoided. Weaning barbiturate treatment over time may be advantageous in the management of severe serum potassium disturbances.

Valores de referencia de analitos en orina en la edad pediatrica / Reference values of analytes in urine in the pediatric age / Valores de referência de analitos na urina na idade pediátrica

La deteccion de trastornos metabolicos minerales puede explicar diversas anomalias fisiologicas que exigen para su interpretacion la comparacion con valores de referencia validados. El objetivo de este trabajo fue la determinacion de valores de referencia en la poblacion infantil uruguaya, de los analitos sodio, potasio, calcio, magnesio, fosforo y urato relacionados con la creatinina en muestras de la segunda miccion de la manana en 470 escolares (240 ninas y 230 ninos) con edades comprendidas entre 7 y 12 anos. Las medianas obtenidas fueron: Na/Crea: 139 mmol/g, K/Crea: 78 mmol/g, Ca/Crea: 77 mg/g, Mg/Crea: 71 mg/g, P/Crea: 500 mg/g, Ur/Crea: 554 mg/g, Crea: 117 mg/dL. A excepcion de los cocientes Na/Crea y K/Crea se encontro una disminucion de la excrecion de estos analitos con la edad, independientemente del sexo. Los valores obtenidos resultaron ser analogos a los de otras poblaciones con tipo de alimentacion similar.

The detection of mineral metabolic disorders can explain several pathologies which require the comparison with reference values for their interpretation. The aim of this study was to determine the reference values of 470 Uruguayan school children with ages between 7 and 12 for sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosporous and urate and their relationship with creatinine in urine samples of the second urination of the morning. The median obtained were: Na/Crea: 139 mmol/g, K/Crea: 78 mmol/g, Ca/Crea: 77 mg/g, Mg/Crea: 71 mg/g, P/Crea: 500 mg/g, Ur/Crea: 554 mg/g, Crea: 117 mg/dL. A diminishment of excretion with the age was found, regardless the sex, except for Na/Crea and K/Crea. The values obtained were similar to those of others populations with a similar diet.

A detecção de distúrbios metabólicos minerais pode explicar várias anomalias fisiológicas, que exigem a comparação com valores de referência validados para serem interpretados. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar valores de referência na população infantil uruguaia, dos analitos sódio, potássio, cálcio, magnésio, fósforo e urato relacionados com a creatinina em amostras da segunda micção da manhã em 470 alunos (240 meninas e 230 meninos) com idades entre 7 e 12 anos. As medianas obtidas foram: Na/Crea: 139 mmol/g, K/Crea: 78 mmol/g, Ca/Crea: 77 mg/g, Mg/Crea: 71 mg/g, P/Crea: 500 mg/g, Ur/Crea: 554 mg/g, Crea: 117 mg/dL. Com exceção dos quocientes Na/Crea e K/Crea, foi encontrada uma diminuição na excreção destes analitos com a idade independentemente do sexo. Os valores obtidos foram análogos aos de outras populações com um tipo similar de dieta.

Renal safety outcomes of spironolactone in patients with resistant hypertension. / Seguridad renal de espironolactona en pacientes con hipertensión arterial resistente.

INTRODUCTION: Resistant hypertension (RH) is a significant health problem with complex management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risks and benefits of adding spironolactone to treat RH. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 216 patients with RH in whom spironolactone (12.5-25mg daily) was added as an antihypertensive were evaluated. One-hundred and twenty-five (125) were analysed retrospectively and 91 prospectively. Blood pressure (BP) and laboratory parameters (serum creatinine [sCrea], estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] and serum potassium [sK]) were analysed at baseline and at 3-6-12 months after introducing spironolactone. RESULTS: A change of systolic/diastolic BP (mean±standard deviation) of -10.9±2.7/-4.3±1.6mmHg at 3 months and -13.6±2.8/-6.0±1.6mmHg at 12 months; p<0.001 was observed. These values were confirmed with ambulatory-BP monitoring at 12 months. At 3 months, an increase in sCrea of 0.10±0.04mg/dl, a decrease in eGFR of -5.4±1.9ml/min/1.73m2 and an increase in sK of 0.3±0.1mmol/l; p<0.001 was observed for all cases. These changes were maintained after 12 months. There were no significant differences in changes of BP, sCrea, eGFR and sK between 3 and 12 months. Results of the retrospective and prospective cohorts separately were superimposable. In the prospective cohort, spironolactone was withdrawn in 9 patients (9.9%) because of adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: After 3 months with spironolactone, a decrease in BP associated with a decrease in the eGFR and an increase in sCrea and sK was observed. These changes were maintained at 12 months. Spironolactone is an effective and safe treatment for RH in patients with baseline eGFR ≥30ml/min/1.73m2.