Dermatite atópica grave: guia prático de tratamento da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria / Severe atopic dermatitis: a practical treatment guide from the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology and the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics

A dermatite atópica (DA) é uma doença cutânea inflamatória, crônica, comum, complexa e de etiologia multifatorial, que se manifesta clinicamente com prurido muitas vezes incapacitante, lesões recorrentes do tipo eczema, xerose e que pode evoluir para liquenificação. Embora o conhecimento sobre a sua fisiopatologia venham crescendo nos últimos anos, ainda as formas graves são frequentes e representam um desafio para o clínico. Para o presente guia realizou-se revisão não sistemática da literatura relacionada à DA grave refratária aos tratamentos habituais com o objetivo de elaborar um documento prático e que auxilie na compreensão dos mecanismos envolvidos na DA, assim como dos possíveis fatores de risco associados à sua apresentação. A integridade da barreira cutânea é um dos pontos fundamentais para a manutenção da homeostase da pele. Além dos cuidados gerais: evitação dos agentes desencadeantes e/ou irritantes, o uso de hidratantes, suporte emocional, entre outros, o uso de agentes anti-inflamatórios/imunossupressores de uso tópico e/ou sistêmico também foi revisado. A aquisição de novos agentes, os imunobiológicos e as pequenas moléculas, melhorou a terapêutica para os pacientes com formas graves de DA, sobretudo as refratárias aos tratamentos convencionais.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, common, and complex inflammatory skin disease with a multifactorial etiology. It manifests clinically with often disabling pruritus, recurrent eczema-like lesions, and xerosis, and can progress to lichenification. Although understanding of the disease's pathophysiology has been growing in recent years, severe forms are still frequent and represent a challenge for clinicians. A non-systematic review of the literature on severe atopic dermatitis refractory to conventional treatment was conducted to develop the present guide, whose purpose is to help clarify the mechanisms involved in the disease and possible risk factors. The integrity of the skin barrier is fundamental for maintaining skin homeostasis. In addition to general care, patients should avoid triggering and/or irritating agents and moisturizers and seek emotional support, etc.; the use of topical and/or systemic anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive agents was also reviewed. New agents, immunobiologicals, and small molecules have led to a broader range of therapies for patients with severe forms of the disease, especially cases refractory to conventional treatment.

Tratamento da UCE refratária aos anti-histamínicos e na impossibilidade do omalizumabe, nos adultos / Treatment of CSU refractory to antihistamines and in the impossibility of omalizumab therapy in adults

Há o empenho contínuo de especialistas no desenvolvimento de tratamentos resolutivos ou eficazes nos controles das doenças, no entanto, a entidade urticária crônica espontânea (UCE), quando refratária à primeira linha de tratamento, os anti-histamínicos, apresenta um prognóstico desfavorável. Existe um arsenal de medicamentos biológicos disponíveis já consolidados como eficazes e seguros, porém eventualmente nos defrontamos com a inacessibilidade a estes medicamentos, devido aos custos dos mesmos e aos trâmites necessários para dar início ao tratamento. Tais fatos fundamentam a discussão sobre terapias alternativas com outros fármacos, visando manter o manejo adequado da doença e a qualidade de vida dos pacientes.

Specialists have made a continuous effort for the development of effective treatments for disease control; however, chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), when refractory to the first line of treatment, ie, antihistamines, has an unfavorable prognosis. There are biological medicines available, which have been consolidated as effective and safe, but we are occasionally faced with a lack of access to these medicines due to their costs and the necessary procedures to start treatment. Such facts support the discussion about alternative therapies with other drugs, aiming at maintaining the adequate management of the disease and the quality of life of patients.

Uso do omalizumabe na urticária crônica espontânea: o que fazer após 6 meses? / Use of omalizumab in chronic spontaneous urticaria: what to do after 6 months?

A urticária crônica espontânea (UCE) é uma condição rara, benigna e com sintomas que afetam adversamente a qualidade de vida, tanto dos pacientes quanto de seus familiares, visto que ainda não existe tratamento resolutivo. O manejo farmacológico de primeira linha consiste no uso de anti-histamínicos em doses licenciadas ou até quadruplicadas, e na ausência de resposta ao anti-histamínico, os consensos mundiais recomendam, na sequência, a adição de omalizumabe. Ambos são amplamente utilizados e considerados seguros e eficazes. No entanto, ainda há alguns questionamentos acerca da anti-IgE: quando e como suspender a medicação, por quanto tempo usar ou quando retornar o uso da mesma, caso haja recidiva. Logo, alguns artigos foram revisados visando melhor elucidação dessas dúvidas.

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a rare, benign condition with symptoms that adversely affect the patients' and their families' quality of life, as there is still no curative treatment. First-line pharmacological management consists of the use of antihistamines in licensed or even quadruplicate doses and, if there is no response to the antihistamine, worldwide consensus recommends subsequent addition of omalizumab. Both are widely used and considered safe and effective. However, there are still some questions about anti-IgE, including when and how to stop the medication, how long it should be used, and when to resume using it in the case of a relapse. Therefore, some articles were reviewed to facilitate the elucidation of these questions.

Efeitos adversos do uso de ciclosporina em pacientes com dermatite atópica grave / Adverse effects of using cyclosporine in patients with severe atopic dermatitis

Introdução: A dermatite atópica (DA) é uma doença inflamatória da pele, multifatorial, crônica e recorrente, caracterizada por lesões eczematosas e prurido intenso. Nos casos graves refratários aos tratamentos tópicos, tem se utilizado imunossupressão sistêmica para o controle da doença, sendo a ciclosporina considerada por muitos como terapia de escolha. Este estudo visa avaliar a incidência e gravidade dos eventos adversos relacionados ao uso de ciclosporina em pacientes com DA grave. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo observacional com análise de prontuários de pacientes com dermatite atópica grave em uso de ciclosporina atendidos em hospital terciário no período de 3 anos. Resultados: Avaliados 80 pacientes com dermatite atópica grave usando ciclosporina, com média de idade de 25,5 anos e 41 do sexo feminino (51,3%). Foram relatados eventos adversos em 25 pacientes. O tempo médio de uso de ciclosporina no grupo com eventos adversos foi de 29,3 meses. Os eventos de maior gravidade foram alteração da função renal e hipertensão, sendo mais observados nos casos de doença mais refratária, quando o uso de ciclosporina foi muito prolongado, superior a 60 meses. As reações evidenciadas foram: hipertensão arterial 40%, alteração renal 20%, náuseas/vômitos 16%, cefaleia 12%, herpes de repetição 12% e outros 4%. Os eventos adversos normalizaram após suspensão da ciclosporina. Conclusão: Pacientes com dermatite atópica grave que usaram ciclosporina por tempo prolongado tiveram maior frequência de eventos adversos potencialmente graves. Todos os efeitos adversos normalizaram após a suspensão de medicação.

Rationale: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory, multifactorial, chronic, recurrent skin disease characterized by eczematous lesions and intense itching. In severe cases refractory to topical treatments, systemic immunosuppression has been used to control the disease, and cyclosporine is largely considered firstline therapy. This study aims to assess the incidence and severity of adverse events related to the use of cyclosporine in patients with severe AD. Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed medical records of patients with severe atopic dermatitis using cyclosporine treated at a tertiary hospital over a 3-year period. Results: Eighty patients with severe atopic dermatitis using cyclosporine were evaluated. Their mean age was 25.5 years, and 41 (51.3%) were female. Adverse events were reported in 25 patients. The mean duration of cyclosporine treatment in the group with adverse events was 29.3 months. The most serious events were changes in renal function and hypertension, which were most often observed in cases of more refractory disease, when the use of cyclosporine was very prolonged (over 60 months). The adverse reactions were hypertension (40%), renal changes (20%), nausea/vomiting (16%), headache (12%), recurrent herpes (12%) and others (4%). Adverse events were under control after cyclosporine was discontinued. Conclusion: Patients with severe atopic dermatitis who used cyclosporine for a long time had a higher frequency of potentially serious adverse events. All adverse effects were under control after discontinuation of medication.

Consensus on the diagnostic and therapeutic management of chronic spontaneous urticaria in adults - Brazilian Society of Dermatology

Abstract: Background: Urticarias are frequent diseases, with 15% to 20% of the population presenting at least one acute episode in their lifetime. Urticaria are classified in acute ( ≤ 6 weeks) or chronic (> 6 weeks). They may be induced or spontaneous. Objectives: To verify the diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), according to the experience of Brazilian experts, regarding the available guidelines (international and US). Methods: A questionnaire was sent to Brazilian experts, with questions concerning diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations for CSU in adults. Results: Sixteen Brazilian experts answered the questionnaire related to diagnosis and therapy of CSU in adults and data were analyzed. Final text was written, considering the available guidelines (International and US), adapted to the medical practices in Brazil. Diagnostic work up in CSU is rarely necessary. Biopsy of skin lesion and histopathology may be indicated to rule out other diseases, such as, urticarial vasculitis. Other laboratory tests, such as complete blood count, CRP, ESR and thyroid screening. Treatment of CSU includes second-generation anti-histamines (sgAH) at licensed doses, sgAH two, three to fourfold doses (non-licensed) and omalizumab. Other drugs, such as, cyclosporine, immunomodulatory drugs and immunosuppressants may be indicated (non-licensed and with limited scientific evidence). Conclusions: Most of the Brazilian experts in this study partially agreed with the diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations of the International and US guidelines. They agreed with the use of sgAH at licensed doses. Increase in the dose to fourfold of sgAH may be suggested with restrictions, due to its non-licensed dose. Sedating anti-histamines, as suggested by the US guideline, are indicated by some of the Brazilian experts, due to its availability. Adaptations are mandatory in the treatment of CSU, due to scarce or lack of other therapeutic resources in the public health system in Brazil, such as omalizumab or cyclosporine.

Eficácia da ciclosporina no controle da dermatite atópica em cães / Efficacy of cyclosporine in the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs

A dermatite atópica é uma dermatopatia inflamatória, pruriginosa, crônica, de origem genética, resultante da perda da função de barreira física da pele e da hiperreatividade à alérgenos ambientais, trofoalérgenos, alérgenos microbianos e a irritantes primários. Este estudo avaliou a eficácia da ciclosporina no controle do prurido e das lesões associadas à dermatite atópica em cães. Selecionaram-se 24 cães com diagnóstico de dermatite atópica baseados nos critérios de Favrot et al. (2010), os quais foram divididos em dois grupos de 12 cães, onde o Grupo 1, recebeu ciclosporina (5mg/kg/vo/24h), e o Grupo 2, foi tratado com prednisona (0,5mg/kg/vo/24h) em doses decrescentes, ambos por 60 dias. Os animais foram continuamente avaliados, e seus escores sintomato-lesionais, baseados na escala de CADESI-03, estabelecidos nos dias 0, 30 e 60. Em adição, os escores de prurido de cada animal, baseado nos critérios de Rybnicek, foram semanalmente avaliados, do dia 0 ao 63. Todos os dados coletados foram analisados pelo teste não paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis, seguido do teste de Dunn´s e para as análises entre os grupos foi utilizado o teste t, considerado o nível de significância mínimo de 5%. A ciclosporina teve uma eficácia similar, no controle lesional, ao grupo que recebeu prednisona no dia (+30) (p<0,05) e no dia (+60) (p<0,001) do tratamento, em relação ao dia zero. Uma diferença significativa do escore do prurido foi observada nos dias +28, +35, +42, +49, +56 e +63 (p<0,001), e no dia +21 (p<0,01) em relação ao momento inicial do tratamento, porém sua eficácia foi inferior ao Grupo 2, a partir do 42º dia de avaliação, mantendo-se esta diferença nos dias +49, +56 e +63 (p>0,05). Apesar da ciclosporina ter sido menos eficaz no controle do prurido, este se manteve em níveis aceitáveis, e seu uso contínuo não foi associado a efeitos colaterais relevantes.(AU)

Atopic dermatitis is an itchy, chronic inflammatory skin disease of genetic origin, resulting from loss of the physical barrier function of the skin and hyper-reactivity to environmental allergens, trofoallergens, microbial allergens and to primary irritants. The efficacy of cyclosporine in the control of pruritus and lesions associated with atopic dermatitis in dogs was evaluated. Twenty-four dogs with atopic dermatitis were selected, based on Favrot et al.'s criteria (2010). They were divided into two groups of 12 dogs, where Group 1 received cyclosporine (5mg/kg/vo/24h), and Group 2 was treated with prednisone (0.5mg/kg/vo/24h) in decreasing doses, both for 60 days. The animals were continuously evaluated, and theirits lesional symptomatology scores were based on a Cadesi-03 scale, set on days 0, 30 and 60. Pruritus scores of each dog, based on Rybnicek´s criteria, were weekly evaluated, from day 0 to day 63. All collected data were analyzed by the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis´ test, followed by Dunn's test, and for the analysis between the groups, considered the minimum significance level of 5%, t-test was used. Cyclosporin had similar efficacy in lesional control in the group which received prednisone on day (+30) (p<0.05) and on the day (+60) (p<0.001) of treatment, compared with day zero. A significant difference of the itching score was observed on days +28, +35, +42, +49, +56 and +63 (p<0.001), and on day +21 (p<0.01) when compared to initial treatment. However, its efficacy was lower than Group 2, from 42 days of evaluation on, keeping such difference on days +49, +56 and +63 (p>0.05). Although cyclosporin have been less effective in controlling itching, it remained at acceptable levels, and its continued use was not associated with significant side effects.(AU)

Urticária crônica espontânea refratária aos anti-histamínicos: opção por ciclosporina / Antihistamine-refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria: opting for cyclosporine

Introdução: Anti-histamínico de segunda geração (AH1 2ªG) é o tratamento de escolha para pacientes com urticária crônica espontânea (UCE). Porém, cerca de 50% dos pacientes não responde a este tratamento. A ciclosporina é uma opção para os quadros mais graves. A ciclosporina tem propriedades imunossupressoras potentes, mas, apesar de sua eficácia, seu uso é limitado devido a diversos efeitos colaterais importantes. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a resposta à ciclosporina em pacientes com UCE refratária aos anti-histamínicos. Método: Estudo retrospectivo baseado no prontuário eletrônico de pacientes com UCE refratária aos AH1 2ªG e que não responderam à introdução de outros medicamentos para controle da urticária. A ciclosporina foi indicada para todos os pacientes. A dosagem de D-dímero foi realizada em alguns pacientes. Resultados: Trinta pacientes participaram do estudo. Desses pacientes, 80% eram do sexo feminino, e a média de idade era de 42,8 anos. Previamente à introdução da ciclosporina, todos estavam em uso de AH1, 60% de AH2, 67% de montelucaste, 33,3% de hidroxicloroquina, e 56,7% de corticoide oral. A mediana de tempo de uso da ciclosporina foi de 11,5 meses. Em relação à eficácia, 40% dos pacientes apresentaram melhora dos sintomas, 40% não responderam ao tratamento, e em 20% dos pacientes a resposta não foi avaliada por suspensão da ciclosporina devido a efeitos colaterais, ou não foi introduzida devido a alterações clínicas ou laboratoriais prévias. Houve aumento dos níveis pressóricos em 9 pacientes (30%), e nefrotoxicidade em 5 pacientes (16,7%). Conclusões: Embora a ciclosporina seja uma boa opção terapêutica para pacientes com UCE refratária aos AH1, os efeitos colaterais são frequentes e devem ser monitorados.

Introduction: Second-generation antihistamines (sgAH1) are the treatment of choice for patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). However, about 50% of the patients do not respond to this treatment. Cyclosporine is an option for more severe presentations. This drug has potent immunosuppressive properties. Despite its effectiveness, use is limited due to several serious side effects. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess response to cyclosporine in patients with antihistamine-refractory CSU. Method: This retrospective study was based on the electronic records of patients with sgAH1-refractory CSU who did not respond to the introduction of other drugs to control urticaria. Cyclosporine was indicated for all patients. D-dimer dosage was performed in some patients. Results: Thirty patients participated in the study. Of these, 80% were female and the mean age was 42.8 years. Prior to the introduction of cyclosporine, all patients were using AH1, 60% AH2, 67% montelukast, 33.3% hydroxychloroquine, and 56.7% oral corticosteroids. Median time of cyclosporine use was 11.5 months. Regarding efficacy, 40% of the patients showed improvement of symptoms, 40% did not respond to treatment, and in 20% response was not evaluated because the medication was withdrawn due to side effects or was not introduced based on previous clinical or laboratory abnormalities. There was an increase in blood pressure levels in 9 patients (30%) and nephrotoxicity in 5 (16.7%). Conclusions: Even though cyclosporine is a good therapeutic option for patients with AH1-refractory CSU, side effects are frequent and should be monitored.

Preclinical evaluation of nephroprotective potential of a probiotic formulation LOBUN on Cyclosporine-A induced renal dysfunction in Wistar rats

ABSTRACT The aim of present study was to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of probiotic formulation LOBUN on Cyclosporine A (CsA) induced renal dysfunction in Wistar rats. CsA (20 mg/kg body weight s.c) was administered for 15 days to cause renal dysfunction in Wistar rats. The probiotic formulation LOBUN was administered with the dose of 500 mg/kg body weight (p.o) for twice (TGI) and thrice a day (TGII). The samples were analyzed for the parameters like blood urine nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, serum uric acid, total serum protein and urine proteins, urine potassium, urine sodium. The renal functional and histopathological studies revealed that the oral administration of probiotic formulation LOBUN has provided appreciable renoprotection and possibly alleviated the symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) at the dose of 500 mg/kg body weight administered thrice a day and also the results were supported by histopathological findings.

Prognostic factors for the evolution and reversibility of chronic rejection in pediatric liver transplantation

OBJECTIVE: Chronic rejection remains a major cause of graft failure with indication for re-transplantation. The incidence of chronic rejection remains high in the pediatric population. Although several risk factors have been implicated in adults, the prognostic factors for the evolution and reversibility of chronic rejection in pediatric liver transplantation are not known. Hence, the current study aimed to determine the factors involved in the progression or reversibility of pediatric chronic rejection by evaluating a series of chronic rejection cases following liver transplantation. METHODS: Chronic rejection cases were identified by performing liver biopsies on patients based on clinical suspicion. Treatment included maintaining high levels of tacrolimus and the introduction of mofetil mycophenolate. The children were divided into 2 groups: those with favorable outcomes and those with adverse outcomes. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify potential risk factors in these groups. RESULTS: Among 537 children subjected to liver transplantation, chronic rejection occurred in 29 patients (5.4%). In 10 patients (10/29, 34.5%), remission of chronic rejection was achieved with immunosuppression (favorable outcomes group). In the remaining 19 patients (19/29, 65.5%), rejection could not be controlled (adverse outcomes group) and resulted in re-transplantation (7 patients, 24.1%) or death (12 patients, 41.4%). Statistical analysis showed that the presence of ductopenia was associated with worse outcomes (risk ratio=2.08, p=0.01). CONCLUSION: The presence of ductopenia is associated with poor prognosis in pediatric patients with chronic graft rejection.

Chronic urticaria in adults: state-of-the-art in the new millennium

Chronic urticaria has been explored in several investigative aspects in the new millennium, either as to its pathogenesis, its stand as an autoimmune or auto-reactive disease, the correlation with HLA-linked genetic factors, especially with class II or its interrelation with the coagulation and fibrinolysis systems. New second-generation antihistamines, which act as good symptomatic drugs, emerged and were commercialized over the last decade. Old and new drugs that may interfere with the pathophysiology of the disease, such as cyclosporine and omalizumab have been developed and used as treatments. The purpose of this article is to describe the current state of knowledge on aspects of chronic urticaria such as, pathophysiology, diagnosis and the current therapeutic approach proposed in the literature.

Trasplantes renales en niños y adolescentes en el hospital Dr. Gustavo Fricke de Viña del Mar: recuento histórico y resultados según grupo de edad / History of kidney transplants performed in children and teenagers in Hospital Doctor. Gustavo Fricke, Viña del Mar: a detailed narration of each kidney transplant

Historia de los trasplantes renales efectuados en niños y adolescentes en el Hospital Dr. Gustavo Fricke de Viña del Mar: Una narración pormenorizada de cada trasplante. En este artículo se narra la historia de los trasplantes renales pediátricos efectuados en el hospital Dr. Gustavo Fricke entre 1984 y 2000. Durante el período se efectuaron 19 trasplantes en niños y adolescentes. De ellos, 42 por ciento se efectuó en niños menores de 15 años y 58 por ciento en adolescentes entre 15 y 18 años. El tiempo que permanecieron en diálisis crónica fue de 26 y 13 meses, respectivamente. Los niños recibieron un riñón más frecuentemente desde un donante fallecido (75 por ciento) y los adolescentes de un donante vivo (91 por ciento). El esquema inmunosupresor más utilizado fue la combinación de azatioprina, ciclosporina y corticoides. Los niños presentaron con mayor frecuencia un rechazo agudo y la necesidad de una reintervención quirúrgica en el postoperatorio que los adolescentes. A la fecha de corte de esta historia, transcurridos 30 años del primer trasplante pediátrico, 43 por ciento de los injertos renales efectuados en niños y 36 por ciento en adolescentes está funcionando, con un rango de duración entre 16 y 20 años...

History of kidney transplants performed in children and teenagers in Hospital Dr. Gustavo Fricke, Viña del Mar, Chile: A detailed narration of each kidney transplant This article told the history of pediatric renal transplants performed in Hospital Dr. Gustavo Fricke between 1984 and 2000. During this period 19 kidney transplants were performed in children and adolescents. Of these, 42 percent were performed in children under 15 years (range: 3-14) and 58 percent in adolescents (15-18 years). The time that patients remain in chronicdialysis was 26 months and 13 months, respectively. Children received a kidney more frequently from a deceased donor(75 percent) and adolescents from a living donor (91 percent). The immunosuppressive regimen most often used was the combination of azathioprine, cyclosporine and corticosteroids. Children had more often acute rejection in the postoperative period and the need of a reoperation. After 30 years of the first pediatric transplant, 43 percent of the renal grafts performed in children and 36 percent in adolescents are functioning, with a length between 16 and 20 years...

Steroid-resistant idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children: long-term follow-up and risk factors for end-stage renal disease / Síndrome nefrótica idiopática córtico-resistente na criança: evolução e fatores de risco para falência renal crônica

INTRODUTION: Steroid resistant idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SRINS) in children is one of the leading causes of progression to chronic kidney disease stage V (CKD V)/end stage renal disease (ESRD). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the efficacy of immunosuppressive drugs (IS) and to identify risk factors for progression to ESRD in this population. METHODS: Clinical and biochemical variables at presentation, early or late steroid resistance, histological pattern and response to cyclosporine A (CsA) and cyclophosfamide (CP) were reviewed in 136 children with SRINS. The analyzed outcome was the progression to ESRD. Univariate as well as multivariate Cox-regression analysis were performed. RESULTS: Median age at onset was 5.54 years (0.67-17.22) and median follow up time was 6.1 years (0.25-30.83). Early steroid-resistance was observed in 114 patients and late resistance in 22. Resistance to CP and CsA was 62.9% and 35% respectively. At last follow-up 57 patients reached ESRD. The renal survival rate was 71.5%, 58.4%, 55.3%, 35.6% and 28.5% at 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years respectively. Univariate analysis demonstrated that older age at onset, early steroid-resistance, hematuria, hypertension, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and resistance to IS were risk factors for ESRD. The Cox proportional-hazards regression identified CsAresistance and FSGS as the only predictors for ESRD. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that CsA-resistance and FSGS were risk factors for ESRD.

INTRODUÇÃO: A síndrome nefrótica idiopática córtico-resistente (SNICR) é uma das principais causas de falência renal crônica (FRC)/doença renal crônica estadio V (DRC V) em crianças. Objetivo: Avaliar a resposta aos imunossupressores e identificar fatores de risco para a FRC. MÉTODOS: Variáveis clínicas e bioquímicas na apresentação, resistência inicial ou tardia aos esteroides, lesão histológica e resposta à ciclosporina A (CsA) e à ciclofosfamida (CF) foram analisados retrospectivamente em 136 crianças com SNICR. O desfecho analisado foi a progressão para FRC e os métodos utilizados foram a análise univariada e a regressão multivariada de Cox. RESULTADOS: A idade mediana do início da doença foi de 5,54 anos (0,67-17,22) e o tempo mediano de seguimento foi de 6,1 anos (0,25-30,83). Resistência inicial aos esteroides ocorreu em 114 pacientes e tardia em 22. Resistência à CF e à CsA ocorreu em 62,9% e 35% dos pacientes, respectivamente. FRC ocorreu em 57 pacientes. A sobrevida renal foi de 71,5%, 58,4%, 55,3%, 35,6% e 28,5% aos 5, 10, 15, 20 e 25 anos, respectivamente. A análise univariada demonstrou que a idade maior ao início da doença, resistência inicial aos esteroides, hematúria, hipertensão, glomeruloesclerose segmentar e focal (GESF) e resistência aos imunossupressores foram fatores de risco para FRC. A regressão de Cox identificou a resistência à CsA e a GESF como os únicos fatores preditores para FRC. CONCLUSÃO: Nossos achados mostraram que a resistência à ciclosporina e a presença de GESF foram fatores de risco para a progressão para DRCV.

Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of cyclosporine in atopic dogs treatment / Avaliação da eficácia da ciclosporina no tratamento de cães atópicos

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory, pruritic and chronic allergic skin disease. It is recognized as the secondmost common allergic skin disease of dogs, after flea allergy. Pruritus is the predominant sign of canine AD, and it affects a variety of areas of the body, leading to intense suffering in both the animal and its owner. The long-term use of glucocorticoid therapy can be devastating because of its numerous side effects and secondary diseases. Cyclosporine (CsA) has been considered a good therapeutic option to treat canine AD. CsA inhibits the activation of cells that initiate the cutaneous immune response (Langerhans cells and lymphocytes) and that mediate allergic reactions (mast cells and eosinophils). It also decreases the release of histamine and other cytokines. The objective of this study was to analyze the efficacy of CsA (5 mg/kg, SID for 60 days) to reduce skin lesions and pruritus in 21 atopic dogs using CADESI-03 and two scales to quantify the levels of body itching. This immunomodulatory therapy was considered to be an effective treatment for atopic dogs because it reduced skin lesions by 70% after 60 days of therapy. During that period, there was a 52.6% reduction of body itching as assessed via a verbal numeric scale, and there was a significant reduction of body itching on a qualitative scale, as the maximal levels of pruritus (“three” and “four”) were hardly observed after immunomodulatory therapy. CsA was effective and safe in the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis.

A atopia ou dermatite atópica é uma doença inflamatória pruriginosa, crônica e recorrente reconhecida como a segunda alergopatia mais comum, estando aquém apenas da dermatite alérgica à picada de pulgas. Esta doença é caracterizada pela presença exacerbada de prurido corpóreo, infringindo sofrimento ao paciente e desalentando seu proprietário. Por se tratar de uma doença de longo decurso, o tratamento com glicocorticoides pode causar diversos efeitos adversos, além de doenças mais graves. Como alternativa ao tratamento de cães atópicos, a ciclosporina (CsA) acaba tornando-se uma boa opção terapêutica. A CsA inibe as funções das células que iniciam a resposta imunológica (células de Langerhans e linfócitos) e das células que efetuam a resposta alérgica (mastócitos e eosinófilos) e, também, diminui a liberação de histamina e de várias citocinas. O objetivo do presente estudo incluiu a: análise da eficácia da CsA (5mg/kg, SID durante 60 dias) na redução de lesões corpóreas e do prurido com auxílio do CADESI-03 e de duas escalas de prurido corpóreo. A CsA mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento da dermatite atópica canina pois reduziu as lesões corpóreas em 70% após 60 dias de terapia. Nesse mesmo período ocorreu redução da intensidade do prurido corpóreo em 52,6%, avaliado através da escala numérica verbal; e observou-se redução significativa na escala qualitativa de prurido corpóreo, uma vez que os níveis máximos de prurido (“três” e “quatro”) quase não foram observados após a terapia imunomodulatória. A CsA mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento da dermatite atópica canina.

Nefropatia crônica por ciclosporina: papel do ácido úrico e do sistema renina angiostensina aldosterona como mediadores de disfunção endotelial, inflamação e vasculopatia / Cyclosporine nephropathy: effect of uric acid and the renin angiostensin aldosterone system as mediators of endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and vasculopathy

A nefrotoxicidade por ciclosporina caracteriza-se, do ponto de vista histológico, por fibrose intersticial em faixa, atrofia tubular e hialinose de arteríolas aferentes glomerulares, ou seja, um quadro compatível com doença renal isquêmica. Esta isquemia provocada pela ciclosporina leva a redução da taxa de filtração glomerular, com consequente elevação dos níveis séricos de ácido úrico. Além disto, a ciclosporina altera o transporte tubular de urato, favorecendo o desenvolvimento de hiperuricemia. No modelo experimental de nefropatia pela ciclosporina, a elevação dos níveis de ácido úrico apresenta associação com lesão túbulo intersticial mais severa, além de maior frequência de hialinose de arteríola aferente. Em estudos anteriores demonstramos que a hiperuricemia agrava a nefrotoxicidade pela ciclosporina e também que, a administração concomitante de agentes hipouricemiantes previne a lesão renal pela CsA. Assim, consideramos a hipótese de que, em um modelo experimental de nefropatia crônica pela ciclosporina, instalada, a normalização dos níveis de ácido úrico com alopurinol ou benzbromarona poderia reverter a lesão renal estabelecida. Nefropatia pela ciclosporina foi induzida em ratos Sprague Dawley com injeções subcutâneas diárias de ciclosporina, em associação com dieta hipossódica, por 5 semanas. Ao final deste período, grupos experimentais foram divididos com interrupção da ciclosporina, tratamento com CsA isolada ou em associação com alopurinol ou benzbromarona por um período adicional de 4 semanas. Ao final de 9 semanas de estudo, foram realizadas avaliações funcionais e histológicas...

Chronic allograft nephropathy is characterized by stripped tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis, in presence of arteriolar hyalinosis, resembling an ischemic pattern of chronic kidney disease. Chronic ischemia is associated with reduced glomerular filtration rate, and increase in serum uric acid levels. Cyclosporine per se also has a direct effect on tubular urate handling that facilitates the development of hyperuricemia. Hyperuricemia exacerbates chronic cyclosporine nephropathy, with a more severe tubulointerstitial fibrosis and atrophy, as well as worsening of arteriolar hyalinosis. In a previous study we have shown that concomitant treatment with uric acid lowering agents limits the development of experimental CsA nephropathy. The hypothesis of the present study was that treatment with uric acid lowering agents, after the development of CsA nephropathy could reverse or reduce the severity of tubulointerstitial disease. Male Sprague Dawley rats received daily SC injections of cyclosporine in presence of low salt diet, during 5 weeks. At the end of this period, experimental groups were assigned for CsA withdrawal, maintenance of daily CsA alone or associated with allopurinol or benzbromarone in drinking water for an additional period of 4 weeks. At the end of 9 weeks of study, rats were sacrificed for functional and morphological analysis of kidneys...

Seguimiento del perfil proteico urinario en el trasplante renal / Follow-up of urine protein profile in renal transplant

La nefropatía crónica del trasplante (NCT) se caracteriza por fibrosis intersticial y atrofia tubular, pero su etiología es diversa. El objetivo del trabajo fue evaluar el seguimiento cualitativo de proteínas urinarias en pacientes con más de seis años de trasplante renal y compararlo con parámetros de laboratorio y con biopsia renal. Se evaluaron 17 pacientes durante un año, a través de creatinina sérica, proteinuria y fraccionamiento proteico por electroforesis en geles de poliacrilamida (SDS-PAGE) en una y dos dimensiones con coloración argéntica. Todos los pacientes con biopsias características de nefropatía crónica del trasplante presentaron un perfil tubular y aquellos con glomerulopatía del trasplante evidenciaron un perfil predominantemente glomerular. Los cambios en el perfil tubular se asociaron a infecciones urinarias, pulmonares e intestinales y a una respuesta inmunológica en el límite al rechazo (borderline), aún sin modificaciones evidentes en la creatinina sérica ni en la proteinuria. La electroforesis bidimensional permitió detectar claramente las proteínas orosomucoide y zinc alfa-2 glicoproteína, aparentemente asociadas a hialinosis arteriolar por toxicidad causada por ciclosporina. La electroforesis SDS-PAGE permitió identificar el sitio de lesión en el nefrón y cambios en la evolución, aún en presencia de vestigios de proteinuria. Las electroforesis SDS-PAGE mono y bidimensional se plantean como complemento para la evaluación de la condición clínica del paciente trasplantado renal crónico.

Post-transplant chronic nephropathy is characterized by interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. These alterations are non-specific, but the glomerular and vascular lesions help to differentiate the etiological causes. The aim of this study was to determine the qualitative follow-up study of urine proteins in patients, six years after receiving a renal transplant, and compare their relationship to laboratory parameters and renal biopsy. The evolution of 17 patients with renal transplant was studied for one year, through serum creatinine, proteinuria, and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS-PAGE) in one and two dimensions with silver staining. The patients with chronic nephropathy by renal biopsy presented a tubular profile of urinary proteins, and those who presented glomerulopathy showed a predominant glomerular profile. Changes in the tubular profiles during the follow-up study were associated to urinary tract, pulmonary, and intestinal infections, as well as borderline rejection, even without evident changes in either proteinuria or serum creatinine. The bidimensional electrophoresis clearly marked the orosomucoid proteins and zinc alpha-2 glycoprotein, generally associated to arterial hyalinosis due to ciclosporin toxicity. Even with traces of proteinuria, SDS-PAGE with silver staining made it possible to identify the renal lesion location. It also enabled the detection of the stable profiles of urinary proteins and changes in the evolution, without modification of serum creatinine. SDS-PAGE in one and two dimensions is used as a complement in the evaluation of renal transplant patients' clinical condition.

Síndrome de ativação macrofágica secundária à infecção aguda pelo vírus Epstein-Barr: [relato de caso] / Macrophage activation syndrome triggered by Epstein-Barr virus: [case report]

A síndrome de ativação macrofágica (SAM) ou síndrome hemofagocítica secundária (reativa) consiste de uma rara, grave e potencialmente fatal complicação das doenças reumáticas crônicas, particularmente da artrite idiopática juvenil de início sistêmico, doença de Still do adulto e lúpus eritematoso sistêmico. É caracterizada pela excessiva ativação dos macrófagos, resultando febre, hepatoesplenomegalia, linfadenomegalia, envolvimento neurológico, graus variáveis de citopenias, hiperferritinemia, distúrbio hepático, coagulação intravascular e freqüente falência de múltiplos órgãos. Também ocorre em associação com neoplasias, imunodeficiências e variedade de agentes infecciosos virais (sobretudo do grupo do herpes), bacterianos e fúngicos. Relatamos um caso de SAM decorrente de infecção viral aguda pelo vírus Epstein-Barr tratado com corticóide oral

The macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) or secondary haemophagocytic syndrome (reactive) is an uncommon, severe and life-threatening complication of chronic rheumatic diseases, especially systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis, adult-onset Still disease and systemic lupus eritematosus. It is characterized by the excessive activation of macrophages, resulting in fever, hepatoesplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, neurological involvement, variable cytopenias, hyperferritinemia, liver disease, intravascular coagulation, often resulting in fatal multiple organ failure. Besides chronic rheumatic diseases, it is also seen in a heterogeneous group of diseases like neoplasms, imunodeficiencies and viruses (especially the herpes group), bacteria and fungi infections. We describe a case report of one patient with MAS triggered by Epstein-Barr virus infection treated with oral corticosteroid.