Determination of prevalence, characteristics, management and related factors for pain in the older adults: pain among nursing home residents

This study aimed to determine pain assessment approaches and pain management strategies in elderly people in a nursing home.The cross-sectional-descriptive study sample consisted of 147 older adults living in a nursing home in Turkey in 2019. They all agreed to participate in the study (n = 147); however, as our research was about older adultswith pain problems, the study was completed with a total of 108 older adultsexperiencing pain problems. The participants' average age was 73.60 ± 6.97 years. Geriatric pain scale scores were higher for women aged 75 years and over, those who had a chronic disease and those who received analgesics, and there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores (p < 0.05). Nurses must pay attention to pain assessment and management in nursing homes because of the adverse effects of pain on older adults' health status, vital functions, and well-being.

Use of gabapentin in management of postoperative pain after crosslinking / Uso da gabapentina no manejo da dor pós-operatória do crosslinking

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of gabapentin in the management of neuropathic pain in patients with keratoconus, who were treated with fast (10 minutes) epi-off corneal crosslinking (CXL). Methods: This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized study. The sample comprised patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus, aged 12 years or older, who underwent a bilateral epi-off corneal CXL (fast - 10 minutes) procedure. One group was given placebo orally, and the other group received gabapentin 600 mg orally, both preoperatively. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was applied to record postoperative pain up to 48 hours after procedure. The study was conducted at the Belotto Stock Centro Oftalmológico, in the city of Joaçaba, Santa Catarina, Brazil, from June 2018 to September 2019. Results: At no point in the study significant differences were observed between groups, in terms of pain intensity measured by means of the VAS questionnaire, or of opioid use (Paco®), though opioid consumption was 21% lower in the group receiving gabapentin. Conclusion: We concluded gabapentin has no efficacy in postoperative pain control after epi-off corneal CXL (fast - 10 minutes). Although there was no statistically significant difference, the group that received gabapentin suffered less pain, resulting in lower opioid consumption. UTN number: U1111-1256-0330.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia do uso da gabapentina no manejo da dor neuropática em pacientes portadores de ceratocone submetidos ao tratamento de crosslinking corneano epi-off fast de 10 minutos. Métodos: Tratou-se de pesquisa prospectiva, duplo-cega, randomizada. A amostra foi composta de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral, a partir dos 12 anos de idade, submetidos ao procedimento de crosslinking corneano acelerado epi-off fast de 10 minutos bilateral. Um grupo recebeu placebo via oral e o outro, gabapentina 600mg, via oral, ambos no pré-operatório. A Escala Visual Analógica foi aplicada para registrar a dor pós-operatória até 48 horas após o procedimento. A pesquisa foi realizada no período de junho de 2018 a setembro de 2019 em um centro oftalmológico. Resultados: Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas significativas para ambos os grupos, tanto na intensidade da dor medida pela Escala Visual Analógica, como na redução do uso do opioide (Paco®), em qualquer horário analisado durante um período de 48 horas. No entanto, houve redução de 21% no consumo de opioides pelo grupo que fez uso da gabapentina. Conclusão: A gabapentina não demonstrou eficácia no controle da dor no pós-operatório do crosslinking corneano epi-off fast de 10 minutos. No entanto, observou-se que, mesmo não havendo diferença estatisticamente significativa, houve diminuição da dor no grupo em que foi usada a gabapentina, resultando na redução do consumo de opioides. Número UTN: U1111-1256-0330.

Prevalência de cefaleia e seus impactos em estudantes de medicina em uma universidade pública / Prevalence of headach and its effects in medical students in a public university

Cefaleia é um sintoma de alta prevalência, com importante impacto nas atividades da vida diária. Estudante de medicina é uma população vulnerável à cefaleia, tanto devido a uma carga de trabalho exaustiva, como hábitos favoráveis como a privação do sono, alimentação irregular, sedentarismo e estresse. O objetivo foi avaliar a prevalência da cefaleia e seu impacto nos estudantes de medicina de uma universidade pública de Alagoas. Foram selecionados, de forma aleatória, 97 estudantes de medicina regularmente matriculados do 1º ao 6º ano. Foi aplicado um questionário padronizado e validado contendo questões objetivas e subjetivas sobre condições sociodemográfcas e aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos. A prevalência de cefaleia foi de 95,9%. A maioria do gênero feminino (55,3%). Todos que alegaram cefaleia, a relataram em algum momento, como causa de absenteísmo e comprometimento de rendimento nos estudos. A maioria dos casos positivos afrmaram nunca ter realizado tratamento com neurologista (95,9%). 76,5% alegaram automedicação com analgésicos comuns, apresentando relevância estatística (p:0,0). Foi encontrado um percentual de prevalência maior no sexo feminino, corroborando com a literatura. Houve uma atribuição da cefaleia a períodos de maior estresse durante o semestre letivo, logo é sabido que são vários os fatores descritos como desencadeantes ou atenuantes no aparecimento. Tendo em vista o relato de absenteísmo e comprometimento de rendimento, bem como a não procura de especialista e automedicação, é necessário que haja uma orientação a estes estudantes a fm de incentivá-los à busca pelo tratamento adequado, a fm de terem uma melhor qualidade de vida.

Headache is a symptom of high prevalence, with important impact on the activities of daily living. Medical student is a vulnerable population to headache due to an exhausting workload, as well as favorable habits like sleep deprivation, irregular eating, physical inactivity and stress. The objective was to evaluate the prevalence of headache and its impact on medical students at a public university in Alagoas. 97 medical students from the 1st to the 6th grade were randomly selected. A standardized and validated questionnaire containing objective and subjective questions about sociodemographic conditions and clinical-epidemiological aspects was applied. The prevalence of headache was 95.9%. The majority was female gender (55.3%). All the positives cases reported the headache as a cause of absenteeism and impaired performance in the studies, it at some point. Most of the positive cases reported never having treated with a neurologist (95.9%). 76.5% claimed self-medication with common analgesics, presenting statistical relevance (p: 0.0). A higher prevalence rate was found in females, corroborating with the literature. There was an attribution of headache to periods of greater stress during the school semester, so it is well known that several factors are described as triggering or attenuating. In view of the report of absenteeism and academic performance impairment, added to a non-search of medical care and and self-medication, it is necessary to provide guidance in order to encourage these students to seek appropriate treatment and then achieve a better quality of life.

Aplicación del ozono interescalénico en la radiculopatía cervical por hernia discal / Application of intercalenic ozone in cervical radiculopathy due to herniated disc

Introducción: el ozono es un gas médico descrito desde el siglo XIX que ha tenido su evolución hasta a la fecha en cuanto a sus aplicaciones y su utilidad en diversas enfermedades por su actuación a nivel molecular y en disímiles enfermedades asociadas a procesos dolorosos de origen inflamatorio como los presentes en las hernia discales de la columna vertebral. Método: estudio retrospectivo con 20 pacientes atendidos en la consulta externa de Neurocirugía del Hospital Miguel Enríquez desde de Diciembre 2016 hasta Abril 2017 con el diagnostico de una radiculopatía cervical por hernia discal. Se le aplicó 10 ML de ozono con una concentración 22 mg/litro tres veces en la semana durante 10 semanas solamente se utilizó este tipo de terapia; obteniendo mejoría en 15 pacientes. Resultados: predominando los mayores de 51 años para un 50 por ciento, en nuestra serie predominó el sexo femenino para un 80 por ciento. En cuanto al cuadro clínico prevaleció la disminución de la fuerza muscular para un 60 por ciento en 12 pacientes, seguidos del dolor cervical y el interescapular para un 75 por ciento y 55 por ciento respectivamente. Se halló mejoría en 15 pacientes para un 75 por ciento y en los otros 5, en tres pacientes no continuaron el tratamiento y en dos no se obtuvo mejoría. Conclusiones: tenemos otra alternativa en la aplicación del ozono por el espacio interescalénico como tratamiento analgésicos y antiinflamatorio en las radiculopatía por hernia discales cervicales(AU)

Introduction: Ozone is a medical gas described since the nineteenth century that has had its evolution up to date in terms of its applications and its usefulness in various diseases for its performance at the molecular level and dissimilar diseases associated with painful processes of inflammatory origin such as those present in herniated discs of the spine. Method: Retrospective study with 20 patients assisted in the outpatient consultation of the Miguel Enríquez Hospital from December 2016 to April 2017 with the diagnosis of a cervical radiculopathy by herniated disc. 10 ML of ozone applied with a concentration of 22 mg/liter three times in the week for 10 weeks only this type of therapy used getting improvement in 15 patients. Results: predominating the older than 51 years for 50 percent, in our series predominated the female sex for 80 percent .As for the clinical picture, decreased muscle strength was prevailed for 60 percent in 12 patients, followed by cervical pain and interescapular for 75 percent and 55 percent respectively. We found improvement in 15 patients for 75 percent and in the other 5, in 3 patients did not continue the treatment and in two, no improvement obtained. Conclusions: We have another alternative in the application of ozone by the intercalenic space as analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatment in cervical herniated discus radiculopathy(AU)

Botulinum toxin type A in chronic neuropathic pain in refractory leprosy / Toxina Botulínica Tipo A em Dor Neuropática Crônica em Hanseníase

ABSTRACT Neuropathic pain is a chronic syndrome that is difficult to treat and often affects patients with leprosy. Recommended treatment includes the the use of analgesic drugs, codeine, tricyclic antidepressants, neuroleptics, anticonvulsants and thalidomide, but without consensus on uniform dose and fully satisfactory results. Objective: To analyze botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) effectiveness in treatment of chronic neuropathic pain in refractory leprous patients, as well as evaluate and compare the quality of life of patients before and after using the medication. Methods: We used a specific protocol including clinical, demographic, DN4 protocol, analogue scale (VAS), sensory evaluation and evaluation of the WHOQOL-BREF. Therapeutic intervention was performed with BOTOX® BTX-A 100U administered subcutaneously. Fifteen patients were evaluated on days 0, 10 and 60. Results: Patients on VAS showed pain between 5 and 10, in one case there was complete pain relief in 60 days, while others showed improvement in the first week with the return of symptoms with less intensity after this period. WHOQOL-BREF's domains Quality of Life and Physical to have a significant increase in QOL. Conclusion: BoNT-A proved to be a good therapeutic option in relieving pain with improved quality of life for these patients.

RESUMO A dor neuropática é uma síndrome crônica que é difícil de tratar e freqüentemente afeta pacientes com hanseníase. O tratamento recomendado inclui o uso de drogas analgésicas, codeína, antidepressivos tricíclicos, neurolépticos, anticonvulsivantes e talidomida, mas sem consenso sobre dose uniforme e resultados plenamente satisfatórios. Objetivo: Busca-se analisar a efetividade da toxina botulínica tipo A no tratamento da dor neuropática crônica hansênica refratária. Método: Estudo de intervenção do tipo ensaio clínico em portadores de dor neuropática crônica hansênica. Foram coletados dados epidemiológicos, protocolo DN4, escala analógica da dor (EVA), avaliação sensitiva, motora a avaliação do WHOQOL-Bref. Realizado intervenção terapêutica com toxina botulínica tipo A 100U. Os pacientes foram avaliados nos dias de 0, 10 e 60. A dor neuropática foi mais frequente no sexo masculino, na faixa etária de 40 à 49 anos. Resultados: Da forma Dimorfa, multibacilar com baciloscopia positiva e incapacidades presentes. Os escores EVA variam entre 5 e 10, todos os pacientes apresentaram alterações sensoriais. O WHOQOL-Bref apresentou melhora após o tratamento com TxBA. A TxBA foi bem tolerada o único efeito adverso notável foi dor leve. E com apenas uma única aplicação de TxBA promoveu efeitos analgésicos a longo prazo em pacientes com dor associada à alodinia, sugerindo que a analgesia observada pode ser causada por um efeito periférico da TxBA em terminações nociceptivas. Conclusão: O estudo sugere que a TxBA é uma boa opção para os casos de dor neuropática crônica hansênica, no entanto, novos estudos são necessários para confirmar estes resultados.

Clinical outcome of sodium alginate therapy in radiation-induced pharyngeal mucositis: experience of a single Japanese institution

Purpose: We investigated the clinical outcome of sodium alginate treatment in radiation-induced pharyngeal mucositis (RIPM) after neck irradiation. Materials and methods: The study population included 32 patients (11 lung cancer, 10 breast cancer, 7 head and neck cancer, and 4 other primary lesions) who underwent neck external beam radiotherapy at the authors' institution between June 2006 and 2016. The patients received 5% sodium alginate solution orally for RIPM. Those who were followed up for less than 2 months or did not receive 5% sodium alginate were excluded from this retrospective study. RIPM was graded weekly as an acute toxicity according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 4. The administration of 10-15 ml of sodium alginate before each meal was continued until the radiotherapy was completed and after resolution of odynophagia. The efficacy of sodium alginate was assessed by two radiation oncologists as follows: Grade I, ineffective; grade II, moderately effective; grade III, very effective. When sodium alginate was ineffective, other analgesics, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or opioids, were added. Relationships between the presence/absence of additional analgesics and the radiation dose were investigated. Results: The median duration from the start of irradiation to sodium alginate administration was 15 days (range, 5­36 days). RIPM improved in 29/32 patients (grade: II, n = 22; III, n = 7). Three patients showed no improvement. No sodium alginate-related toxicities occurred. Additional analgesics were required in 5/32 patients. The radiation dose in these 5 patients was significantly higher than that in the sodium alginate-alone group (63.6 ± 7.8 Gy vs 48.3 ± 14.8Gy, P = 0.02). Patients who received > 50 Gy tended to require additional analgesics more frequently than those who received ≤50Gy (P = 0.10). Conclusions: The concurrent administration of sodium alginate and neck irradiation was feasible and tolerable without obvious toxicities. Under certain conditions sodium alginate could be a promising alternative to NSAIDs and opioids in RIPM. The results justify further prospective evaluations with detailed treatment protocols to clarify whether sodium alginate can improve RIPM (AU)

Consideraciones clínicas e imagenológicas de la osteoartrosis en la articulación temporomandibular / Clinical and imaging remarks on temporomandibular joint osteoarthrosis

La osteoartrosis es una enfermedad degenerativa que, instalada en la articulación temporomandibular, genera efectos deletéreos en los tejidos blandos y óseos que la constituyen. En los tejidos duros se destaca la aparición de procesos osteolíticos a nivel condilar y de la cavidad glenoidea con cambios morfológicos importantes. Estas modificaciones están íntimamente relacionadas con el debilitamiento y/o destrucción de los tejidos blandos que ocurren previamente. Los síntomas que se presentan con mayor frecuencia en esta afección son la alteración del rango de movimiento, el dolor y, el más característico, la crepitación durante el examen con estetoscopio. La frecuencia de aparición alcanza entre un 8% y un 18%. Las causas para su documentación son variables y están vinculadas al desplazamiento discal, el trauma, hormonales y la inestabilidad oclusal, siendo el aumento de carga (bruxismo) la de mayor significación. El examen imagenológico puede documentar aplanamiento de los componentes óseos, disminución del espacio articular, discontinuidad de las corticales, esclerosis subcondral, osteofitos, quistes subcondrales y cuerpos libres periarticulares. En ocasiones la radiografía panorámica puede ser poco demostrativa para la documentación de esas particularidades; por el contrario, la tomografía computada es un excelente procedimiento diagnóstico. El aporte de la IRM es relevante en la ubicación del disco articular; asimismo, posibilita la observación de colección de fluido en los espacios articulares, generando una señal hiperintensa. Tratamiento: actuar principalmente para disminuir la carga sobre la ATM y,`por lo tanto, concientizar al paciente de la presencia del bruxismo, instalar un dispositivo oclusal miorrelajante (DOM) y suplementar con analgésicos, antiinflamatorios y antiartrósicos. Cuando la OA está asociada al desplazamiento discal, debe indicarse un dispositivo oclusal de desplazamiento anterior mandibular (DODAM) (AU)

Osteoarthrosis is a degenerative disease. When is located in the TMJ produces deleterious effects in its soft and hard tissues, osteolytic processes on condyle and glenoid cavity in the latter, with significant morphological changes, closely related to weakening and destruction of the tissues that had happened previously. Symptoms most frequent are alteration of the range of movement, pain and,the most characterystic, cracking while examination through stethoscope. Its frequency is between 8 and 18%.Causes for its documentation are variable and related to disc displacement, trauma, hormones and occlusal unsteadiness, being de increase of charge (clenching) the most relevant. Imaging can show flattening on osseusparts,, the articular space, discontinuation of cortexes, subchondral sclerosis, osteophytes, subchondral cysts,and loose particular bodies. Sometimes orthopantomograph may be barely demonstrative to document these phenomena, conversely CT is an excellent diagnostic procedure. The contribution of MRI is relevant to locate articular disc, and facilitate visualize fluid collection within the articular spaces, producing a hiperintense signal. Treatment: to act mainly for diminishing charge on the TMJ, so to raise patients conscience of the presence of clenching, install a myorelaxant occlusal device (DOM) and additionally analgesics, antiinflamatories and antiarthrosis When osteoarthrosis is associated with disc displacement and occlusal device for anterior mandibular displacement (DODAM) is suitable(AU)

Dolor postoperatorio, analgesia y presencia de factores de riesgo para dolor crónico en pacientes hospitalizados de un hospital público de Santiago de Chile / Postoperative pain, analgesia and presence of risk factors for chronic postoperative pain in hospitalized patients of a public hospital of Santiago de Chile

INTRODUCCIÓN: el dolor postoperatorio es un importante problema de salud pública, con una elevada incidencia según publicaciones internacionales. el dolor crónico postoperatorio (DCPO) se desarrolla posterior a una cirugía y persiste por más de dos meses, excluyendo otras causas y problemas preexistentes. se han descrito factores de riesgo demográficos, psicosociales y médicos para el desarrollo de dolor crónico postoperatorio (DCPO), siendo el más importante el dolor postoperatorio agudo elevado. actualmente, en Chile se carece de datos locales sobre dolor postoperatorio agudo y crónico. OBJETIVO: evaluar la intensidad del dolor agudo en pacientes post-operados y las medidas analgésicas utilizadas, esto en el contexto de la identificación de los factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de DCPO en pacientes hospitalizados en el servicio de cirugía de un hospital de alta complejidad. MATERRIALES Y MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal retrospectivo. La muestra incluyó a 100 pacientes post-operados seleccionados en forma aleatoria del área de cirugía del Hospital del Salvador entre los meses de septiembre y octubre de 2017. Se realizó una revisión de protocolos operatorios, evoluciones e indicaciones médicas y se registraron edad, sexo, dolor postoperatorio según la escala numérica del dolor (EN) y factores de riesgo de DCPO (cirugía con riesgo de daño nervioso, revisional, abierta, malla, complicaciones postoperatorias, dolor postoperatorio sobre 5, según EN), además del tiempo operatorio. Se realizó un registro electrónico en planilla de excel (Microsoft® Excel® 2011) pre-codificada y diseñada para este fin, resguardando la identidad de los participantes. Los datos obtenidos se expresaron como promedios (con desviación estándar) y medianas. RESULTADOS: se encontró una incidencia de 44% de dolor postoperatorio, con intensidad promedio de 4,4 ± 1,64 puntos entre los pacientes que presentaron dolor en algún grado. el 93% de los pacientes con dolor presentó dolor moderado a severo. en el 98% del total de pacientes se indicó terapia analgésica; de éstos, el 47,95% solo tuvo indicación de antiinflamatorios no esteroidales (AINEs), 39,79% AINEs y paracetamol, 7,14% solo paracetamol y 5,10% otras combinaciones. el 95% de los pacientes presentó uno o más factores de riesgo para DCPO, y el 11%, cuatro o más. DISCUSIÓN: el conocimiento de la incidencia e intensidad local de dolor postoperatorio es un primer paso para optimizar su manejo. la identificación de la población en riesgo de desarrollar DCPO podría permitir implementar a futuro medidas preventivas, que mejoren la calidad de vida de los pacientes postoperados

INTRODUCTION: postoperative pain is an important public health issue, with a high incidence reported in international literature. chronic postoperative pain (CPOP) is developed posterior to a surgical intervention and persists over two months, excluding other causes and preexisting problems. several risk factors for CPOP have been mentioned, including demographic, psicosocial and medical ones; the most relevant being high acute postoperative pain. nowadays, Chile lacks local data of acute and chronic postoperative pain. OBJECTIVES: assess the intensity of acute postoperative pain and the analgesia used, in the context of the identification of risk factors for CPOP in a surgery department of a high complexity hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: an observational descriptive tranversal restrospective study was used. the sample was constituted by 100 postsurgical patients selected randomly from the surgical department of the Hospital del Salvador between september and october 2017. a revision of surgical protocols and medical charts was made; age, sex, postsurgical pain according to numeric pain scale (NPS) and risk factors for CPOP (surgery with risk of nervous damage, second look, open, use of mesh, postsurgical complications, postsurgical pain above 5 according to NPS) were registered, besides surgical time. the record was made on an precoded excel sheet (Microsoft® Excel® 2011), designed for this purpose. the identity of the patients was kept anonymous. the data obtained was expressed as mean (with standard deviation) and median. RESULTS: an incidence of 44% of postsurgical pain was found, with mean intensity of 4.4 ± 1.64points between patients that presented any degree of pain.93% from the patients with pain presented moderate to severe pain. 98% from the total of patients had analgesia, from them 47.95% only had non-steroidal antiinflamatory drugs (NSAIDs), 39.79% NSAIDs and acetaminophen, 7.14% only acetaminophen and 5.10% other combinations. 95% of patients had one or more risk factors for CPOP, and 11% four or more of them. DISCUSSION: the knowledge of the incidence and intensity of postsurgical pain is the first step in order to optimize its manage. the identification of the population at risk to develop CPOP could allow the implementation of preventive measures that may improve the quality of life of postsurgical patients.

Inadequate pain relief among patients with primary knee osteoarthritis / Alívio inadequado da dor em pacientes com osteoartrite de joelho primária

ABSTRACT Background: Despite the widespread treatments for osteoarthritis (OA), data on treatment patterns, adequacy of pain relief, and quality of life are limited. The prospective multinational Survey of Osteoarthritis Real World Therapies (SORT) was designed to investigate these aspects. Objectives: To analyze the characteristics and the patient reported outcomes of the Portuguese dataset of SORT at the start of observation. Methods: Patients ≥50 years with primary knee OA who were receiving oral or topical analgesics were eligible. Patients were enrolled from seven healthcare centers in Portugal between January and December 2011. Pain and function were evaluated using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and WOMAC. Quality of life was assessed using the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12). Inadequate pain relief (IPR) was defined as a score >4/10 on item 5 of the BPI. Results: Overall, 197 patients were analyzed. The median age was 67.0 years and 78.2% were female. Mean duration of knee OA was 6.2 years. IPR was reported by 51.3% of patients. Female gender (adjusted odds ratio - OR 2.15 [95%CI 1.1, 4.5]), diabetes (OR 3.1 [95%CI 1.3, 7.7]) and depression (OR 2.24 [95%CI 1.2, 4.3]) were associated with higher risk of IPR. Patients with IPR reported worst outcomes in all dimensions of WOMAC (p < 0.001) and in all eight domains and summary components of SF-12 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that improvements are needed in the management of pain in knee OA in order to achieve better outcomes in terms of pain relief, function and quality of life.

RESUMO Antecedentes: Apesar dos tratamentos muito difundidos para a osteoartrite (OA), dados sobre os padrões de tratamento, a adequação do alívio da dor e a qualidade de vida são limitados. O estudo multinacional prospectivo Survey of Osteoarthritis Real World Therapies (SORT) foi projetado para investigar esses aspectos. Objetivos: Analisar as características e os desfechos relatados pelo paciente do conjunto de dados português do Sort no início da observação. Métodos: Consideraram-se elegíveis os pacientes com 50 anos ou mais com OA de joelho primária que recebiam analgésicos orais ou tópicos. Os pacientes foram recrutados de sete centros de saúde de Portugal entre janeiro e dezembro de 2011. A dor e a função foram avaliadas pelo Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) e pelo WOMAC. A qualidade de vida foi avaliada com o 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12). O alívio inadequado da dor (AID) foi definido como uma pontuação > 4/10 no item 5 do BPI. Resultados: Foram analisados 197 pacientes. A idade média foi de 67 anos e 78,2% eram do sexo feminino. A duração média da OA de joelho foi de 6,2 anos. O AID foi relatado por 51,3% dos pacientes. O sexo feminino (odds ratio ajustado - OR 2,15 [IC 95% 1,1-4,5]), o diabetes (OR = 3,1 [IC 95% 1,3-7,7]) e a depressão (OR 2,24 [IC 95% 1,2-4,3]) estiveram associados a um maior risco de AID. Os pacientes com AID relataram piores desfechos em todas as dimensões do Womac (p < 0,001) e em todos os oito domínios e nos dois componentes sumários do SF-12 (p < 0,001). Conclusões: Os resultados do presente estudo indicam que é necessário melhorar o manejo da dor na OA de joelho a fim de alcançar melhores desfechos em termos de alívio da dor, função e qualidade de vida.

Effects of ozone on the pain and disability in patients with failed back surgery syndrome / Efeitos do ozônio na dor e na incapacidade em pacientes com síndrome dolorosa pós-laminectomia

Summary Introduction: Low back pain is one of the painful disorders of higher prevalence. It has several etiologies and surgery may be indicated in the presence of neurological deficits or compression syndromes. However, in up to 40% of cases, patients develop worsening of pain and failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), which is an important cause of chronic pain with high morbidity and disability. In the last two decades, ozone has been shown to be a new therapeutic option for FBSS due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Objective: To evaluate the effect of ozone therapy on pain and disability in patients with failed back surgery syndrome. Method: We selected 19 patients undergoing epiduroscopy and injection of ozone. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and 21 days after the procedure, using the following instruments: Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Brief Pain Inventory, Roland-Morris Questionnaire Disability, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory and Douleur Neuropathique 4. Results: The patients showed significant pain relief, but no improvement was observed in the functional scales. Conclusion: Our results suggest that epidural ozone therapy can be a treatment option in FBSS to reduce the intensity of the pain.

Resumo Introdução: A dor lombar é um dos distúrbios dolorosos de maior prevalência. Tem diversas etiologias e, na presença de déficits neurológicos ou síndromes compressivas, pode ser indicada cirurgia. Entretanto, em até 40% dos casos os pacientes podem evoluir com piora da dor e síndrome dolorosa pós-laminectomia (SDPL), que se constitui em uma importante causa de dor crônica com grande morbidade e incapacidade. Nas últimas duas décadas, o ozônio tem se mostrado uma nova opção terapêutica para a SDPL em virtude das suas propriedades analgésicas e anti-inflamatórias. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da ozonioterapia na dor e na incapacidade de pacientes com SDPL. Método: Foram selecionados 19 pacientes, submetidos a epiduroscopia e aplicação de ozônio. Os pacientes foram avaliados no pré-operatório e 21 dias após o procedimento, por meio de Escala Visual Analógica, Inventário Breve de Dor, Questionário Roland-Morris de Incapacidade, Oswestry Disability Scale, Inventário de Sintomas de Dor Neuropática e Questionário de Dor Neuropática. Resultados: Os pacientes apresentaram redução significante nos escores das escalas de avaliação de dor; porém, essa redução não foi observada na avaliação da incapacidade funcional. Conclusão: Os dados obtidos sugerem que a ozonioterapia epidural pode ser uma opção de manejo da SDPL na diminuição da intensidade da dor.

Initial approach to patients with acute lower back pain / Abordagem inicial do paciente com lombalgia aguda

Summary Low back pain is in one of the most common reasons for seeking medical care in emergency care units, and also the second most common cause of work absenteeism. The recognition of red flags for serious diseases such as tumors and fractures, through proper history-taking and clinical examination, is essential for proper treatment and to rule out differential diagnoses. In the absence of suspected severe underlying disease, subsidiary radiological examinations are unnecessary. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs are the treatment of choice and can be cautiously associated with muscle relaxants and opioids in more severe cases. Most patients will have complete improvement of symptoms after a few months, but a minority can develop chronic low back pain or present with recurrent episodes. The proper understanding of all of the above can optimize results and avoid diagnostic and therapeutic errors.

Resumo A dor lombar é uma das causas mais comuns de procura à assistência médica em unidades de pronto atendimento. É ainda a segunda causa de afastamento laboral. O reconhecimento de sinais de alerta de doenças graves, como tumores e fraturas, por meio de anamnese e adequado exame clínico, é fundamental para o adequado tratamento e a exclusão de diagnósticos diferenciais. Na ausência de suspeita de doença grave subjacente, exames radiológicos subsidiários são desnecessários. O uso de analgésicos e anti-inflamatórios é o tratamento de primeira escolha, podendo estar associado a relaxantes musculares e opioides, com cautela em casos mais graves. A maior parte dos pacientes apresentará melhora total dos sintomas após alguns meses; porém, uma minoria irá desenvolver lombalgia crônica ou quadros recorrentes. O adequado entendimento de todos esses pontos permite otimizar resultados e evitar erros diagnósticos e terapêuticos.

Combination of pharmacotherapy and lidocaine analgesic block of the peripheral trigeminal branches for trigeminal neuralgia: a pilot study / Combinação de farmacoterapia e bloqueio analgésico com lidocaína sobre os ramos periféricos trigeminais no tratamento da neuralgia do trigêmeo: um estudo piloto

Classical trigeminal neuralgia (CTN) is treated predominantly by pharmacotherapy but side effects and unsuccessful occurs. The current study was carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effect of combination of pharmacotherapy and lidocaine block. Thirteen patients with CTN managed with pharmacotherapy were recruited and assigned either to no additional treatment (Group I) or to additional analgesic block (Group II). The primary endpoint was the reduction in the frequency of pain episodes in a month assessed at 30 and 90 days. Comparisons of measurements of pain, general health and depression scales were secondary endpoints. The results from the follow-up visits at 30 and 90 days showed the Group II to have larger reduction in the frequency of pain and exhibited a bigger improvement in the scores of the pain, general health and depression scales. The results from this preliminary study suggest a clinical benefit of the combination of pharmacotherapy and lidocaine block.

A neuralgia clássica do trigêmio (NTC) é tratada predominantemente por drogas, porém efeitos colaterais e falhas terapêuticas ocorrem. Avaliamos o efeito terapêutico da combinação entre farmacoterapia e bloqueio analgésico utilizando a lidocaína. Treze pacientes portadores de NTC tratados com farmacoterapia foram divididos em dois grupos: Grupo I pacientes que mantiveram somente tratamento medicamentos e Grupo II pacientes que associaram bloqueio anestésico. O objetivo primário do estudo foi à redução da freqüência da dor 30 e 90 dias após o bloqueio. Secundariamente avaliamos o impacto sobre as escalas de depressão, dor e qualidade de vida. O grupo II teve uma redução significativa na freqüência da dor e uma melhora nos escores de qualidade de vida, dor e escala de depressão. Os resultados sugerem um benefício clinico da combinação de farmacoterapia e bloqueio anestésico no tratamento da NTC.

Study of the use of analgesics by patients with headache at a specialized outpatient clinic (ACEF) / Estudo do uso de analgésicos em pacientes com cefaleia em um ambulatório especializado (ACEF)

Objective : To evaluate the use of analgesics in headache diagnosed in Outpatients Headache Clinic (ACEF), as well as his involvement in the activities of the patients. Method : 145 patients with headache seen at ACEF during the period August/July 2009/2010 underwent a questionnaire and interview with neurologist responsible for the final diagnosis according to ICHD-II. Results : Relationship Women:Men 7:1. 1) Prevalence: Migraine without aura (52.4%), migraine with aura (12.4%), chronic migraine (15.2%) and medication overuse headache (MOH) (20%). 2) Analgesic drugs used: Compounds with Dipyrone (37%), Dipyrone (23%), Paracetamol (16%) compound with Paracetamol (6%), triptans (6%) and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (12%). There was a significant decrease in the duration of pain and less interference in the activities of the headache patients after the use of analgesics. Conclusion : Prevalence of MOH has been increasing in population level and specialized services. New studies emphasizing the MOH are needed to assist in the improvement of their diagnostic and therapeutic approach. .

Objetivo : Avaliar a utilização de analgésicos nas cefaleias diagnosticadas no Ambulatório de Cefaleias (ACEF), bem como a sua intervenção nas atividades dos pacientes. Método : 145 pacientes com cefaleia atendidos no ACEF durante o período entre Agosto/2009 a Julho/2010 foram submetidos a um questionário e à entrevista com médico neurologista responsável pelo diagnóstico final, segundo a ICHD-II. Resultados : Relação Mulheres:Homens de 7:1. 1) Prevalência: Migrânea sem aura (52,4%), migrânea com aura (12,4%), migrânea crônica (15,2%) e CEM (20%). 2) Analgésicos utilizados: Compostos com Dipirona (37%), Dipirona (23%), Paracetamol (16%), compostos com Paracetamol (6%), triptanos (6%) e drogas antiinflamatórias esteroidais (12%). Houve uma diminuição significativa da duração da dor e menor interferência da cefaleia nas atividades dos pacientes após o uso dos analgésicos. Conclusão : Prevalência da cefaleia por uso excessivo de medicamento (CEM) vem aumentando em nível populacional e em serviços especializados. Novos estudos enfatizando a CEM são necessários para auxiliar na melhora da sua abordagem diagnóstica e terapêutica. .

Preventing and treating chronic disabling pain after surgery

Chronic postoperative pain (CPP) is an important health problem. This is a narrative review of etiologies, mechanisms, risk factors, means of reducing the risk, and treatment of chronic postoperative pain. Methods: This is a topical review based on a focused literature review and personal clinical experience and research efforts on chronic pain after surgical interventions. Results: CPP is defined as new pain in the area of surgery that lasts more than 3-6 months after the operation, is clearly related to tissue and nerve injuries during the operation and cannot be explained by other etiologies. The overall prevalence is that 20-40 percent have some pain and discomfort for a few weeks, 10 percent have moderate pain that cannot be neglected for a few months, about 1 percent develop debilitating CPP. CPP is caused by nerve and tissue injury and abnormal reactions to such injury. Only those who have pre and peri-operative risk factors determined in part by genetic makeup, reinforced by abnormal pain modulating mechanisms, having chronic pain in other part(s) of the body, having psychological stress factors andc atastrophizing thoughts and anxiety, having severe acute pain during and immediately after surgery, chemotherapy or radiation after cancer surgery, and being younger rather than elderly. Risks of CPP can be estimated by a simple scoring system with approximate risk prediction determined by the number and degree of preoperative risk factors. A number of procedures and drugs can ameliorate these risk factors: Regional and local anesthetic techniques when appropriate, anti-hyperalgesic drugs with nitrous Introduction Long-lasting new pain after an operation is a common, sometimes a debilitating consequence of surgery. We know some factors that increase the risk of developing chronic postoperative pain (CPP). The patients' GP, surgeon, and anesthesiologist must focus on these risks and prioritize efforts to reduce their effects...

Dolor perdurable II. Tratamiento / [Enduring pain II. Treatment].

Pain disorders present highly challenging therapeutic problems, owing in part to complex co-morbidities associated with pain disorders, notably including psychiatric disorders characterized by depressed mood or anxiety. Many treatments are employed to treat pain-disorder patients, and most are unsatisfactory. Virtually all analgesic medicines in long-term use provide only partial efficacy and present substantial risks of adverse effects, loss of benefit over time, or dependency and risk of abuse. Commonly employed drugs with analgesic properties include non-opioids (mainly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents [NSAIDs] or acetaminophen), many natural or synthetic opioids (including opiates and phenylpiperidines), some antidepressants (especially those with noradrenergic activity), a few anticonvulsants, skeletal muscle relaxants or topical remedies, and a growing variety of experimental treatments. The major overlap between pain and psychiatric disorders, as well as the currently unsatisfactory state of treatments available for chronic pain syndromes, encourage a comprehensive approach to assessment and clinical management of patients with chronic pain. Many current treatment programs for pain disorder patients offer narrowly specialized and incomplete treatment options. Ideally however, such care should be provided by multi-disciplinary teams with expertise in neurology, general medicine, pain management, physical medicine and rehabilitation, as well as psychiatry. Psychiatrists as well as pain specialists can serve an essential role in leading comprehensive assessment and general management of such complex and challenging patients who are typically only partially responsive to available treatments.

Devising and validating a headache diary in a series of patients with chronic daily headache from Colombia / Diseño y validación de un diario de cefalea en pacientes con cefalea crónica diaria en Colombia

OBJECTIVE: To devise and test the reliability and validity of a brief headache diary in a series of Colombian patients with chronic daily headache. METHODS: The study was designed in five stages: selection of domains (group of patients and experts); initial devising of the items (writing group); identification of non-understandable items (n=20); assessment of internal consistency (n=100); assessment of validity and assessment of sensitivity to change during seven consecutive days (n=25, 175 observations). RESULTS: Five domains were selected: headache presence, severity and length of pain, analgesics intake, and missing workdays. The headache diary is internally consistent (≈75 percent of rotated variance), correlates with the medical interview (Spearman's rho and Kendall's tau over 0.8 for each domain) and it has an adequate and stable sensitivity and specificity (82 to 96 percent). CONCLUSIONS: This headache diary is a reliable and valid instrument and represents the most important features affecting Colombian patients with chronic daily headache.

OBJETIVO: Diseñar y testar la validez y reproducibilidad de un diario de cefalea en una serie de pacientes Colombianos con cefalea crónica diaria. MÉTODOS: El estudio fue diseñado en cinco fases: selección de los dominios (grupo de pacientes y expertos); diseño inicial de los ítems (grupo redactor); identificación de ítems no comprensibles (n=20); determinación de la consistencia interna (n=100); determinación de la validez y la sensibilidad al cambio durante siete días consecutivos (n=25, 175 observaciones). RESULTADOS: Fueron seleccionados cinco dominios: presencia, severidad y duración del dolor, ingesta de analgésicos y días laborales perdidos. El diario tiene una adecuada consistencia interna (≈75 por ciento de la varianza), se correlaciona con la entrevista médica (rho de Spearman y tau de Kendall >0.8 para cada dominio) y tiene sensibilidad y especificidad estables y satisfactorias (82 a 96 por ciento). CONCLUSIONES: Este diario de cefalea es un instrumento confiable y registra las principales características de las cefaleas en pacientes con cefalea crónica diaria.

Aspectos da personalidade e sua influência na percepção da dor aguda em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca / Aspects of personality and its influence on acute pain perception in patients submitted to cardiac surgery

OBJETIVO: Verificar o papel e a influência da personalidade na percepção dolorosa aguda de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca. MÉTODO: Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal, analítica, prospectiva de caráter correlacional, realizada em Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. A amostra foi composta por 25 pacientes, sendo 64 por cento do sexo feminino, com menos de 60 anos (52 por cento). RESULTADOS: A intensidade dolorosa foi avaliada pela escala numérica de dor do primeiro ao quinto dia de pós-operatório e os estilos de personalidade, pelo Inventário Millon de Estilos de Personalidade. A percepção dolorosa foi experienciada com magnitudes variando de leve a moderada do primeiro ao quinto dia do pós-operatório e relacionada às características de personalidade. Nos pacientes com menos intensidade de dor, foi observada maior elevação significativa da pontuação obtida nos fatores preservação, individualismo, introversão e, nos pacientes com maior intensidade de dor, houve uma elevação significativa nos fatores de proteção, extroversão, retraimento, discrepância, afetividade, acomodação, retraimento, comunicabilidade e firmeza. CONCLUSÃO: A ocorrência do fenômeno doloroso em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca mostra-se associada com manifestações comportamentais e com magnitudes variáveis quanto ao tempo do ato cirúrgico, tipo e posição de drenos, além do período pós-operatório imediato. Pode-se caracterizar que aspectos psicológicos enquanto características de personalidade podem influenciar padrões de comportamento como os observados.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the role and influence of personality in acute pain perception of post cardiac surgery patients. METHOD: This is a cross-sectional, analytical, prospective with correlational nature, developed in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The sample consisted of 25 patients, 64 percent female, less than 60 years (52 percent). RESULTS: Pain intensity was measured by numeric pain scale of 1 to 5 days postoperatory and personality styles was by Millon Inventory of Personality Styles. Pain perception was experienced with magnitudes ranging from mild to moderate from 1st to 5th day after surgery and related to personality characteristics. In patients with less pain intensity was observed a significant elevation of the highest score factors in the preservation, individualism, introversion and in the patients with greater intensity of pain were: protection, extraversion, shyness, discrepancy, affection, accommodation, withdrawal, communication and firmness. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of the painful phenomenon in patients post-cardiac surgery appears to be associated with behavioral manifestations and varying magnitudes as the time of surgery, type and position of drains, besides the immediate postoperative period. To characterize psychological aspects as personality characteristics may influence patterns of behavior as these observed.

Avaliação do custo do medicamento para tratamento ambulatorial de pacientes com dor crônica / Evaluación del coste del medicamento para el tratamiento ambulatorial de pacientes con dolor crónico / Evaluating the cost of drugs used in the outpatient treatment of chronic pain

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A dor crônica é muito prevalente e o custo do tratamento pode ter impacto relevante sobre as pessoas e a sociedade. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os custos mensais médios dos medicamentos para tratamento ambulatorial da dor crônica. MÉTODO: Neste estudo, analisou-se o custo de medicamentos empregados por 233 pacientes com dor crônica (117 com dor nociceptiva, 59 com dor neuropática e 57 com dor mista) e atendidos no Centro Alfa da UNIFESP, entre janeiro de 2004 e janeiro de 2008. RESULTADOS: A média de custos geral foi de R$127,74 (custo mínimo de R$5,00 e máximo de R$780,00). CONCLUSÕES: O estudo revelou que os custos de medicamentos não diferem de forma significativa, levando-se em conta o tipo de dor envolvida.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic pain is very prevalent and the cost of its treatment can cause a relevant impact on people and society. The objective of this study was to evaluate the monthly cost of drugs used in the outpatient treatment of chronic pain. METHODS: In the present study the cost of the drugs used by 233 patients with chronic pain (117 with nociceptive pain, 59 with neuropathic pain, and 57 with mixed pain) followed at the Alpha Center of UNIFESP between January 2004 and January 2008 was evaluated. RESULTS: The mean general cost was R$ 127.74 (from R$ 5.00 to R$ 780.00). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that the cost of the drugs does not differ significantly taking into consideration the type of pain.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVOS: El dolor crónico ocurre muy a menudo y el coste del tratamiento puede tener un impacto relevante en las personas y en la sociedad. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los costes mensuales promedios de los medicamentos para el tratamiento ambulatorial del dolor crónico. MÉTODO: En este estudio, analizamos el coste de los medicamentos utilizados por 233 pacientes con dolor crónico (117 con dolor nociceptivo, 59 con dolor neuropático y 57 con dolor mixto), y que fueron atendidos en el Centro Alfa de la UNIFESP, entre enero de 2004 y enero de 2008. RESULTADOS: El promedio general de los costes rondó los R$ 127,74 (coste mínimo de R$ 5,00 y máximo de R$ 780,00). CONCLUSIONES: El estudio reveló que los costes de medicamentos no son diferentes de forma significativa, teniendo en cuenta el tipo de dolor que existe.

Utilização de medicamentos e fatores associados entre crianças residentes em áreas pobres / Utilización de medicamentos y factores asociados entre niños residentes en áreas pobres / Drug use and associated factors in children living in poor areas

OBJETIVO: Descrever o perfil de uso de medicamentos entre crianças residentes em áreas pobres e fatores associados. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal de base populacional que incluiu 1.382 crianças entre quatro e 11 anos de idade, selecionadas por amostragem aleatória de 24 micro-áreas representativas das zonas mais pobres da população residente no município de Salvador, BA, em 2006. A variável dependente foi o consumo de medicamentos nos 15 dias anteriores à realização dos inquéritos. Foram considerados três grupos de variáveis explanatórias: socioeconômicas, estado de saúde da criança e utilização dos serviços de saúde. A análise ajustada utilizou regressão de Poisson seguindo um modelo conceitual hierarquizado. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de consumo de medicamentos em crianças foi de 48 por cento. As crianças do sexo feminino apresentaram prevalência de utilização de medicamentos superior ao sexo masculino, 50,9 por cento e 45,4 por cento, respectivamente (p=0,004). A prevalência de uso de medicamentos diminuiu significativamente com a idade (p<0,001) em ambos os sexos. Os grupos farmacológicos mais utilizados foram os analgésicos/antitérmicos (25,5 por cento), antibacterianos sistêmicos (6,5 por cento) e antitussígenos/expectorantes (6,2 por cento). Na análise multivariada os fatores determinantes de maior utilização de medicamentos foram: idade (quatro a cinco, seis, sete a oito anos), sexo feminino, mães de cor da pele branca, pior percepção de saúde, interrupção de atividades por problemas de saúde e atendimento de saúde independentemente de estar doente nos últimos 15 dias, gasto com medicamentos no último mês e realização de consultas ao médico nos últimos três meses. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de uso de medicamentos entre crianças pobres estudadas foi inferior à verificada em outros estudos populacionais no Brasil, mas semelhante à de adultos. A identificação de grupos mais sujeitos ao uso excessivo de medicamentos pode embasar estratégias ...

OBJECTIVE: To describe drug use profile in children living in poor areas and associated factors. METHODS: Population-based, cross-sectional study, including 1,382 children aged between four and 11 years. These children were selected by random sampling of 24 micro-areas, representative of the poorest segments of the population living in the city of Salvador, Northeastern Brazil, in 2006. The dependent variable was drug use in the 15 days preceding the surveys. A total of three groups of explanatory variables were considered: socioeconomic variables, child health status, and use of health services. Adjusted analysis used Poisson regression, following a hierarchical conceptual model. RESULTS: Drug use prevalence in children was 48 percent. Female children showed higher drug use prevalence than males, 50.9 percent and 45.4 percent, respectively (p=0.004). Drug use prevalence decreased significantly with age (p<0.001) in both sexes. Most used pharmacological groups were: analgesics/antipyretics (25.5 percent), systemic antibiotics (6.5 percent), and anti-cough /expectorant drugs (6.2 percent). In the multivariate analysis, factors determining greater drug use were: age (four to five, six, seven to eight years); female sex; white mother; poorer health perception; interruption of activities due to health problems and health care, whether ill or not, in the last 15 days; drug spending in the last month; and medical visits in the last three months. CONCLUSIONS: Drug use prevalence in the poor children studied was below that observed in other population-based studies in Brazil, yet similar to that of adults. The identification of groups most subject to excessive drug use may serve as the basis for strategies to promote their rational use.

OBJETIVO: Describir el perfil de uso de medicamentos entre niños residentes en áreas pobres y factores asociados. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal de base poblacional que incluyó 1.382 niños entre cuatro y 11 años de edad, seleccionadas por muestreo aleatorio de 24 micro-áreas representativas de las zonas más pobres de la población residente en el municipio de Salvador, Noreste de Brasil, en 2006. La variable dependiente fue el consumo de medicamentos en los 15 días anteriores a la realización de las pesquisas. Fueron considerados tres grupos de variables explicatorios: socioeconómicas, estado de salud del niño y utilización de los servicios de salud. El análisis ajustado utilizó regresión de Poisson siguiendo un modelo conceptual jerarquizado. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de consumo de medicamentos en niños fue de 48 por ciento. Los niños del sexo femenino presentaron prevalencia de utilización de medicamentos superior al sexo masculino, 50,9 por ciento y 45,4 por ciento, respectivamente (p=0,004). La prevalencia de uso de medicamentos disminuyó significativamente con la edad (<0,001) en ambos sexos. Los grupos farmacológicos más utilizados fueron los analgésicos/antitérmicos (25,5 por ciento), antibacterianos sistémicos (6,5 por ciento) y antitusígenos/expectorantes (6,2 por ciento). En el análisis multivariado los factores determinantes de mayor utilización de medicamentos fueron: edad (cuatro a cinco, seis, siete a ocho años), sexo femenino, madres de color de piel blanca, peor percepción de salud, interrupción de actividades por problemas de salud y atención de salud independientemente de estar enfermo en los últimos 15 días, gasto con medicamentos en el último mes y realización de consultas con médico en los últimos tres meses. CONCLUSIONES: La prevalencia de uso de medicamentos entre niños pobres estudiados fue inferior a la verificada en otros estudios poblacionales en Brasil, pero semejante a la de adultos. La identificación de grupos ...