Alta prevalencia de hipovitaminosis D en personas infectadas con HIV atendidas en un centro ambulatorio de la ciudad de Buenos Aires / High prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in HIV-infected persons attending an outpatient clinic, Buenos Aires city

La hipovitaminosis D es frecuente en el mundo. Según estudios realizados entre 1987 y 2015, en Argentina la prevalencia fue > 40%. En personas con infección por HIV variaría entre 20 y 90%, pero en nuestro medio no se conoce con precisión. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia de hipovitaminosis D en una cohorte de adultos con infección por HIV asistidos en forma ambulatoria en la ciudad de Buenos Aires. Se analizaron retrospectivamente las historias clínicas de 814 sujetos mayores de 18 años HIV positivos con al menos una determinación de vitamina D. La mediana de edad fue 44 años (rango intercuartílico 21-80), 746 (91.6%) eran hombres y 813 (99.9%) recibían tratamiento antirretroviral. Se realizó análisis uni y multivariado para determinar asociación entre hipovitaminosis D y valores de CD4, carga viral para HIV y terapia antirretroviral. La prevalencia de hipovitaminosis D fue 79.7% (insuficiencia 34.2%, deficiencia 45.5%). No se encontró asociación con el uso de efavirenz o inhibidores de la proteasa (p = 0.86 en ambos casos), con el recuento de linfocitos CD4, ni con la carga viral plasmática (p = 0.81 y 0.74, respectivamente). El presente estudio muestra que, en nuestro medio, la hipovitaminosis D es muy frecuente en personas con infección por HIV. Aun cuando no revela evidencia de relación con carga viral para HIV, estado inmune, ni tratamiento antirretroviral, es necesaria la búsqueda sistemática de hipovitaminosis D en esta población, en vista de la alta frecuencia de osteopenia y osteoporosis y el mayor riesgo de fracturas descripto en personas HIV positivas.

Hypovitaminosis D is frequent worldwide. In Argentina, according to studies conducted between 1987 and 2015, prevalence was > 40% in the general population. In people living with HIV it may vary between 20 and 90%, but the prevalence in our environment is not known. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in a cohort of adults with HIV infection in the city of Buenos Aires. We analyzed retrospectively medical records of 814 HIV positive subjects older than 18 years with at least one determination of vitamin D. The median age was 44 years (interquartile range 21-80), 746 (91.6%) were men, and 813 (99.9%) were on antiretroviral treatment. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association of hypovitaminosis D with CD4 values, viral load for HIV, and antiretroviral therapy. The present study shows that, in our environment, hypovitaminosis D is very common in people with HIV infection. Although it does not reveal evidence of a relationship with viral load for HIV, immune status, or antiretroviral treatment, the systematic search for hypovitaminosis D is mandatory in this population, taking into account its high frequency and the increased risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis and fractures, as described in people with HIV.

The social network of adolescents who need special health care / La red social de los adolescentes que necesitan una atención especial a la salud / Rede social de adolescentes que necessitam de atenção especial à saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the social network of adolescents who need special health care. Method: A qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study conducted between 2016 and 2017 in the pediatric outpatient clinic of a teaching hospital in southern Brazil. Thirty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age, followed by the construction of genograms and ecomaps. After transcription, the enunciations were subjected to Pêcheux's method of discourse analysis. Results: The institutional network consists of health services, schools and religious entities, as well as adolescents' families and friends. In the family network, women family members—such as mothers, grandmothers and aunts—have a special role. Final Consideration: The adolescents' social network is composed of institutional and family circles. In the view of adolescents, the tertiary service is more capable of solving their problems, and for this reason used the most. In order to ensure these adolescents access to and continuity of care, the articulation between health policies and health services is suggested.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir la red social de los adolescentes que necesitan una atención especial a la salud. Método: Estudio cualitativo, descriptivo y exploratorio, realizado entre 2016 y 2017 en la clínica pediátrica de un hospital escuela en la región sur de Brasil. Se realizaron 35 entrevistas semiestructuradas con adolescentes de 12 a 18 años de edad, y después se elaboraron genogramas y ecomapas. Después de la doble transcripción, se sometieron los relatos a análisis de discurso pecheutiano. Resultados: En la red institucional constan de servicios de salud, escuelas y organismos religiosos, así como de familiares y amigos de los adolescentes. En la red de la familia, se elogian a las mujeres, representadas por las madres, las abuelas y las tías. Consideraciones Finales: La red social de los adolescentes se compone de círculos institucionales y familiares. En la perspectiva de los adolescentes, el servicio terciario es más resolutivo, por lo tanto, es lo más utilizado. Se recomienda articular las políticas con los servicios de salud para que se oferte a estos adolescentes el acceso a la salud y la continuidad del cuidado.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a rede social de adolescentes que necessitam de atenção especial à saúde. Método: Estudo qualitativo, descritivo e exploratório realizado entre 2016 e 2017 no ambulatório pediátrico de um hospital de ensino no sul do Brasil. Foram realizadas 35 entrevistas semiestruturadas com adolescentes entre 12 a 18 anos de idade, seguidas pela construção de genogramas e ecomapas. Após a dupla transcrição, as enunciações foram submetidas à análise de discurso pechetiana. Resultados: A rede institucional é composta por serviços de saúde, escolas e entidades religiosas, além de familiares e amigos dos adolescentes. Na rede familiar, as mulheres são enaltecidas, representadas pelas mães, avós e tias. Considerações Finais: A rede social dos adolescentes é composta pelos círculos institucional e familiar. Na ótica dos adolescentes, o serviço terciário é mais resolutivo e por isso é o mais utilizado. Sugere-se articular as políticas e os serviços de saúde para o acesso e continuidade do cuidado desses adolescentes.

Factors associated with inadequate follow-up of children with congenital syphilis / Fatores associados ao seguimento não adequado de crianças com sífilis congênita

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze factors associated with outpatient follow-up of children with congenital syphilis. METHODS A non-concurrent cohort study performed in primary care units and three reference maternity hospitals in Fortaleza (Ceará State). Data were collected from September 2013 to September 2016 in the notification forms and in the medical records of hospitalization and outpatient follow-up, and they were presented considering an adequate and inadequate follow-up. Children who attended the primary care unit or referral outpatient clinic during the period recommended by the Ministry of Health were considered adequately followed up and performed the recommended examinations. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used in the comparative analysis. The estimated risk of adequate non-follow-up was verified by simple and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS The total of 460 children with congenital syphilis were notified, of which 332 (72.2%) returned for at least one appointment and were part of the study. Exactly 287 (86.4%) children attended the primary health unit; however, there was no reference to congenital syphilis in 236 (71.1%) medical records and no information on the venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test was found in 264 (79.5%) children. There was nonadherence to subsequent appointments by 272 (81.9%) individuals. The following variables had a statistically significant association with the non-adequate follow-up of the children: marital status of the mothers, number of prenatal appointments, number of pregnancies, blood count, and radiography of long bones. CONCLUSIONS Most children with congenital syphilis attended primary care for follow-up, but the services do not meet the recommendations of the Brazilian Ministry of Health for adequate follow-up.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Analisar fatores associados ao seguimento ambulatorial não adequado de crianças notificadas com sífilis congênita. MÉTODOS Estudo de coorte não concorrente, realizado em unidades de atenção primária e três maternidades de referência de Fortaleza (Ceará). Os dados foram coletados de setembro de 2013 a setembro de 2016 nas fichas de notificação e nos prontuários médicos de internamento e de seguimento ambulatorial, e apresentados considerando o seguimento adequado e não adequado. Foram consideradas adequadamente seguidas as crianças que compareceram à unidade de atenção primária ou ao ambulatório de referência no período recomendado pelo Ministério da Saúde e realizaram os exames preconizados. Utilizou-se os testes qui-quadrado de Pearson e exato de Fisher na análise comparativa. O risco estimado de não seguimento adequado foi verificado por regressão logística simples e múltipla. RESULTADOS Foram notificadas 460 crianças com sífilis congênita, das quais 332 (72,2%) retornaram para pelo menos uma consulta e fizeram parte do estudo. Compareceram à unidade primária de saúde 287 (86,4%) crianças; entretanto, não havia referência à sífilis congênita em 236 (71,1%) prontuários e não foram encontradas informações acerca da solicitação do exame venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) em 264 (79,5%). Houve não adesão às consultas subsequentes por parte de 272 (81,9%) indivíduos. As seguintes variáveis apresentaram associação estatisticamente significativa com o seguimento não adequado das crianças: estado civil das genitoras, número de consultas no pré-natal, número de gestações, hemograma e radiografia de ossos longos. CONCLUSÕES A maioria das crianças notificadas com sífilis congênita comparecem à atenção primária para seguimento, porém os serviços não atendem às recomendações do Ministério da Saúde para o seguimento adequado.

Degree of risk for foot ulcer due to diabetes: nursing assessment / Grado de riesgo para las úlceras en los pies por diabetes: evaluación de enfermería / Grau de risco para úlceras nos pés por diabetes: avaliação de enfermagem

ABSTRACT Objective: To classify the level of risk for foot ulcers in people with diabetes mellitus and identify their main predictive risk factors. Method: Exploratory, descriptive study, in which patients were assessed in a municipal ambulatory of São Paulo through nursing consultation, following the guidelines of the International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot. Data were descriptively analyzed. Results: The analyzed population was composed of 50 longevous and retired people, with household income of up to two minimum wages, with dermato-neurofunctional risk factors and unfavorable clinical indicators, and 66% had Risk 1; 16% Risk 2; 6% Risk 3 and 12% Risk 4. Of this analyzed total, 96% never had their feet examined with the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament. Conclusion: The data found indicate the importance of careful feet examination in people with diabetes by the nursing staff to identify future risks of ulcers and, thus, prevent them.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Clasificar el grado de riesgo para las ulceraciones en los pies de las personas con diabetes mellitus e identificar sus principales factores de riesgo predictivos. Método: Estudio exploratorio, descriptivo, en el cual los pacientes fueron evaluados en un ambulatorio municipal de São Paulo por medio de la consulta de enfermería, según las directrices del International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot. Los datos fueron analizados descriptivamente. Resultados: La población analizada fue de 50 personas, longevos jóvenes, jubilados, con ingresos familiares de hasta dos salarios mínimos, con factores de riesgo dermato-neurofuncionales e indicadores clínicos desfavorables, siendo que el 66% presentó riesgo 1; el 16% de riesgo 2; el 6% riesgo 3; y el 12% de riesgo 4. De ese total analizado, el 96% nunca tuvo los pies examinados con el monofilamento de Semmes-Weinstein. Conclusión: Los datos encontrados apuntan la importancia de la evaluación cuidadosa de los pies de las personas con diabetes por la enfermería para identificar los riesgos futuros de ulceraciones y, de esta forma, prevenirlos.

RESUMO Objetivo: Classificar o grau de risco para ulcerações nos pés de pessoas com diabetes mellitus e identificar seus principais fatores de risco preditivos. Método: Estudo exploratório, descritivo, onde os pacientes foram avaliados em um ambulatório municipal de São Paulo por meio da consulta de enfermagem, segundo diretrizes do International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot. Os dados foram analisados descritivamente. Resultados: a população analisada foi de 50 pessoas, longevos jovens, aposentados, renda familiar de até dois salários mínimos, com fatores de risco dermato-neuro-funcionais e indicadores clínicos desfavoráveis, sendo que 66% apresentaram risco 1; 16% risco 2; 6% risco 3 e 12% risco 4. Dentre estes, 96% nunca tiveram seus pés examinados com o monofilamento de Semmes Weinstein. Conclusão: Os dados encontrados apontam a importância da avaliação criteriosa dos pés das pessoas com diabetes pela enfermagem para identificar os riscos futuros de ulcerações, e desta forma trabalhar a prevenção dos mesmos.

Pediatric chronic patients at outpatient clinics: a study in a Latin American University Hospital / Pacientes pediátricos crônicos em clínicas ambulatoriais: estudo em um hospital universitário da América Latina

Abstract Objective: To describe the characteristics of children and adolescentes with chronic diseases of outpatient clinics at a tertiary university hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed with 16,237 patients with chronic diseases followed-up in one year. The data were collected through the electronic system, according to the number of physician appointments in 23 pediatric specialties. Patients were divided in two groups: children (0-9 years) and adolescents (10-19 years). Early (10-14 years) and late (15-19 years) adolescent groups were also analyzed. Results: Of the total sample, 56% were children and 46% were adolescents. The frequencies of following pediatric specialties were significantly higher in adolescents when compared with children: cardiology, endocrinology, hematology, nephrology/renal transplantation, neurology, nutrology, oncology, palliative and pain care, psychiatry, and rheumatology (p < 0.05). The frequencies of emergency service visits (30% vs. 17%, p < 0.001), hospitalizations (23% vs. 11%, p < 0.001), intensive care unit admissions (6% vs. 2%, p < 0.001), and deaths (1% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.002) were significantly lower in adolescents than in children. However, the number of physician appointments (≥13) per patient was also higher in the adolescent group (5% vs. 6%, p = 0.018). Further analysis comparison between early and late adolescents revealed that the first group had significantly more physician appointments (35% vs. 32%, p = 0.025), and required more than two pediatric specialties (22% vs. 21%, p = 0.047). Likewise, the frequencies of emergency service visits (19% vs. 14%, p < 0.001) and hospitalizations (12% vs. 10%, p = 0.035) were higher in early adolescents. Conclusions: This study evaluated a large population in a Latin American hospital and suggested that early adolescents with chronic diseases required many appointments, multiple specialties and hospital admissions.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever características de crianças e adolescentes com doenças crônicas de clínicas ambulatoriais em um hospital universitário terciário. Métodos: Um estudo transversal foi realizado com 16.237 pacientes com doenças crônicas acompanhados em um ano. Os dados foram coletados por meio de dados do sistema eletrônico de acordo com o número de consultas médicas em 23 especialidades pediátricas. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos: crianças (0-9 anos) e adolescentes (10-19 anos). Também foram analisados grupos de jovens adolescentes (10-14 anos) e adolescentes mais velhos (15-19 anos). Resultados: 54% eram crianças e 46% eram adolescentes. As frequências das seguintes especialidades pediátricas foram significativamente maiores em adolescentes em comparação a crianças: cardiologia, endocrinologia, hematologia, nefrologia/transplante renal, neurologia, nutrologia, oncologia, cuidados paliativos e cuidado da dor, psiquiatria e reumatologia (p < 0,05). As frequências de visitas a serviços de emergência (30%, em comparação a 17%, p < 0,001), internações (23%, em comparação a 11%, p < 0,001), internações em unidade de terapia intensiva (6%, em comparação a 2%, p < 0,001) e óbitos (1%, em comparação a 0,6%, p = 0,002) foram significativamente menores em adolescentes do que em crianças. Contudo, o número de consultas médicas (≥ 13) por paciente (também) foi maior em grupos de adolescentes (5%, em comparação a 6%, p = 0,018). A comparação de análises adicionais entre jovens adolescentes e adolescentes mais velhos revelou que o primeiro grupo apresentou um número significativamente maior de consultas médicas (35%, em comparação a 32%, p = 0,025) e precisou de mais de duas especialidades pediátricas (22%, em comparação a 21%, p = 0,047). Da mesma forma, as frequências de visitas a serviços de emergência (19%, em comparação a 14%, p < 0,001) e internações (12%, em comparação a 10%, p = 0,035) foram maiores em jovens adolescentes. Conclusões: Este estudo avaliou uma grande população em um hospital da América Latina e sugeriu que jovens adolescentes com doenças crônicas precisaram de muitas consultas, diversas especialidades e internações hospitalares.

Most frequent dermatoses at a vulvar pathology outpatient clinic

Abstract: The vulva corresponds to the external female genitalia. Special features of this region favor a wide range of diseases, whose knowledge allows for better clinical management, impacting on the quality of life. This is a cross-sectional and descriptive study carried out at a vulvar pathology outpatient clinic, between May and December/ 2015. Data obtained from a standard form included demographic parameters, habits, and vulvar dermatosis and allowed to identify the epidemiological profile of patients with vulvar dermatosis treated in this outpatient clinic and to determine the most prevalent dermatoses. Our results, partially concordant with the literature, provide original data that should stimulate further studies

Evaluation of the impact of pharmaceutical care for tuberculosis patients in a Secondary Referral Outpatient Clinic, Minas Gerais, Brazil

ABSTRACT Pharmaceutical care is a professional practice seeking the responsible provision of drug therapy by identifying, resolving, and preventing Drug-Related Problems (DRP). The study aims to describe and evaluate the impact of pharmaceutical care given to patients being treated for tuberculosis (TB). Study concurrent, longitudinal, prospective conducted during pharmaceutical care in the TB outpatient clinic, Clinical Hospital, Federal University of Minas Gerais during the period August 2009 to July 2012. The Pharmacotherapy Workup proposed by Cipolle et al. (2004) was used. Statistical analyses were performed by X2 or Fisher exact test, as appropriate. A total of 62 patients were followed up, and 128 drug-related problems (DRP) were identified: 69.5% related to safety, 13.3% to effectiveness, 12.5% ​​to indication, and 4.7% to treatment adherence, and 62.1% of the DRP were resolved. A total of 115 pharmaceutical interventions were performed. The impact of pharmaceutical care was satisfactory for 73.9% of patients with a resolution rate of 77%. There was a greater impact on pharmaceutical care (index ≥ 0.50) for those patients who were not smokers (p <0.05). The impact of pharmaceutical care was important, so the pharmacist should work alongside the multidisciplinary team to monitor treatment and perform interventions.

Epidemiological profile of elderly patients with non-melanoma skin cancer seen at the dermatology outpatient clinic of a public hospital

Abstract: Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma, referred to as non-melanoma skin cancer, are the most common malignancies in humans. Their incidence is increasing worldwide every year. In Brazil, even with the advent of educational campaigns on photoprotection and laws that banned tanning beds, they are the most frequent neoplasias, representing a public health problem recognized by the Ministry of health.

Treatment adherence in patients living with HIV/AIDS assisted at a specialized facility in Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: In the 1990s, Brazil adopted a public policy that allowed for universal, free access to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Since then, treatment adherence has become a new challenge for administrators of sexually transmitted disease/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (STD/AIDS) policies. This study quantified adherence to ART and verified whether there is an association between sociodemographic variables and clinical/laboratory data in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, exploratory study with a quantitative approach that was conducted over 8 months. The target population contained patients who were assisted at the ambulatory care facility specialized in STD/AIDS of a medium-size city located in Northwest São Paulo. In order to verify the level of adherence to ART, a validated CEAT-VIH (Assessment of Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Questionnaire) questionnaire was used. Sociodemographic aspects and clinical/laboratory data were obtained from the medical records. The results were analyzed using the Student's t-test and Pearson's coefficient. RESULTS Herein, 109 patients were interviewed, 56% of whom were male. The age of the population ranged 18-74 years (mean 45.67 years). Adherence to ART was classified as insufficient in 80.7% of cases. There was an association between ART adherence and presence of symptoms and/or opportunistic infection (p=0.008) and economic status (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Adherence to ART among HIV carriers cared for by the public health system is low. Patients who reported a favorable economic status and those without symptoms and/or opportunistic infection demonstrated greater treatment adherence than those who needed to take more than 3 pills a day.

Saúde sexual e reprodutiva para a população adolescente, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Sexual and reproductive health among young people, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Resumo Objetivamos analisar a distribuição geográfica, a estrutura de atendimento e os recursos humanos das unidades do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) que prestam serviços em saúde sexual e reprodutiva (SSR) à população adolescente, na segunda maior cidade do Brasil. Realizamos estudo transversal com mapeamento geográfico e coleta de dados por meio de questionário aplicado aos coordenadores, em todas as 147 unidades ambulatoriais do Rio de Janeiro, dispostas ao atendimento em SSR. Verificamos que todas as Regiões Administrativas (RA) desse município dispõem de unidades de atendimento para adolescentes, entretanto, em mais de 90% delas, eles são atendidos juntamente com a população adulta, sem turnos ou salas específicas. Em mais de 10% dos serviços, a assistência só é dada na presença do responsável. Em casos de violência sexual a proporção mostrou-se ainda maior, chegando a atingir 34% dos casos. Em apenas 12,9% das unidades são realizadas atividades educativas direcionadas a adolescentes e constatou-se que menos de 1/3 dos médicos estava capacitado para lidar com a saúde do adolescente. Em conclusão, apesar da larga distribuição geográfica das unidades de saúde, a estrutura do atendimento e os recursos humanos não atendem a contento as especificidades do público adolescente.

Abstract We aimed to analyze the geographic distribution, the structure of healthcare services and the human resources of all units of the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS - the Unified Health System) that provide sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to the adolescent population in the second largest city in Brazil. We conducted a cross-sectional study with geographical mapping and data collection through a questionnaire applied in person with coordinators of the units or their representatives in 147 outpatient clinics in Rio de Janeiro that have SSR services. We found that in over 90% of the units, adolescents are treated together with the adult population, without particular shifts or rooms for this age group. In more than 10% of services, treatment is only provided with the presence of the guardian. In cases of sexual violence, this proportion is 34%. Specific educational activities for this age group are only carried out in 12.9% of units and less than one third of doctors had received some kind of training to deal with adolescent health. In conclusion, despite the wide geographic distribution of health facilities, the structure of care and the human resources do not meet the specific needs of adolescents.

Anticoagulation quality and complications of using vitamin k antagonists in the cardiac surgery outpatient clinic

ABSTRACT Introduction: In patients with mechanical prosthetic heart valves or atrial fibrillation requiring anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolic events, several factors influence adherence and anticoagulation complications. Objective: To evaluate the factors that interfere with the quality and complications of anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 100 patients, in the period from 2011 to 2014, was performed. Anticoagulation conditions in the last year, regarding the presence of complications (embolisms/bleeding) and inadequate treatment were assessed: achievement of less than 8 annual prothrombin times and International Normalized Ratio outside therapeutic target in more than 40% of prothrombin times. Results: There were 31 complications (22 minor bleeding without hospitalization and 9 major complications: 7 bleeding with hospitalization and two emboli); 70 were with International Normalized Ratio outside the target in more than 40% of the tests and 36 with insufficient number of prothrombin times. Socioeconomic factors, anticoagulant type and anticoagulation reason had no relationship with complications or with inadequate treatment. There were more complications in patients with longer duration of anticoagulation (P=0.001). Women had more International Normalized Ratio outside the target range (OR 2.61, CI:1.0-6.5; P=0.04). Patients with lower number of annual prothrombin times had longer times of anticoagulation (P=0.03), less annual consultations (P=0.02) and less dose adjustments (P=0.003). Patients with longer duration of anticoagulation have more complications (P=0.001). Conclusion: There was a high rate of major complications and International Normalized Ratio was outside the goal. Less annual prothrombin times was related to longer duration of anticoagulation, less annual consultations and less dose adjustments. More major complications occurred in patients with longer duration of anticoagulation.

Prevalence of depression in type 2 diabetic patients in Trinidad and Tobago / Prevalencia de la depresión en pacientes con diabetes tipo 2 en Trinidad y Tobago

BACKGROUND: Depression is a common problem among those suffering from diabetes mellitus. The dual diagnoses of a chronic medical disease and mental disorder, symptomatic presentation and stringent treatment regimen are sources ofpsychological distress for patients and present a major challenge for healthcare workers. METHOD: In a cross-sectional study, one hundred and twenty-eight Type 2 diabetic patients were investigated for depression using the Zung Depression Scale. All cases were diagnosed by a physician and patients were selected from outpatient clinics of the four major hospitals in Trinidad. The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient, stepwise multiple regression and t-test were utilized to examine the relationship between participant's age, gender, glucose control, coexisting medical complications and depression. RESULTS: The patients were primarily Indo-Trinidadians (49%), over 50 years (79.7%) and women (60%). The prevalence of depression was 17.9% of Type 2 diabetic patients reporting mild to moderate levels of depression. Female Type 2 diabetics had higher scores of depression (M = 42.13, SD = 9.83, p = 0.011) than male Type 2 diabetics (M = 38.71, SD = 8.9). Patients with coexisting medical complications had higher levels of depression (M = 44.01, SD = 9.52) than those with diabetes alone (M= 37.74, SD = 8.79, p = 0.000). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of depression in Type 2 diabetic patients highlights the necessity for psychological screening at diabetic health clinics in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly for women and those with co-morbid medical complications. This will aid in better control, quality of life and longevity.

ANTECEDENTES: La depresión es un problema común entre las personas que sufren de diabetes mellitus. El diagnóstico dual de una enfermedad médica crónica y un trastorno mental, la presentación sintomática y un régimen de tratamiento estricto, son fuentes de angustia psicológica para los pacientes y representan un reto importante para los trabajadores de la salud. MÉTODO: En un estudio transversal, ciento veintiocho pacientes con diabetes tipo 2 fueron investigados en relación con estados depresivos, usando la Escala de Depresión de Zung. Todos los casos fueron diagnosticados por un médico, y los pacientes fueron seleccionados de clínicas ambulatorias de los cuatro hospitales principales en Trinidad. El coeficiente de correlación producto-momento de Pearson, la regresión gradual múltiple, y la prueba t, fueron utilizados para examinar la relación entre la edad del participante, el género, el control de la glucosa, las complicaciones médicas coexistentes, y la depresión. RESULTADOS: Los pacientes eran principalmente indotrinitenses (49%), más de 50 años (79.7%) y mujeres (60%). La prevalencia de la depresión fue 17.9% de los pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 que reportaban niveles de depresión de leves a moderados. Las mujeres diabéticas tipo 2 tuvieron puntuaciones de depresión mayores (M= 42.13, SD = 9.83, p = 0.011) en comparación con los hombres diabéticos tipo 2 (M= 38.71, SD = 8.9). Los pacientes con complicaciones médicas coexistentes tenían niveles más altos de depresión (M= 44.01, SD = 9,52) que aquellos sólo con diabetes (M = 37.74, SD = 8.79, p = 0.000). CONCLUSIÓN: La prevalencia de la depresión en pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 señala la necesidad de realizar tamizajes psicológicos en las clínicas para diabéticos en Trinidad y Tobago, en particular para las mujeres y aquellos con complicaciones médicas comórbidas. Esto ayudará a un mejor control, calidad de vida y longevidad de los pacientes con diabetes tipo 2.

Fall-related traumas in urgent care centers

OBJECTIVE: To identify the scope and the characteristics of fall-related traumas in urgent care centers in Sergipe, Brazil and to verify potential associations among the following variables: gender, age, and where the event occurred. METHOD: This descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted in the urgent care centers of two public referral hospitals in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. The data collection was conducted in November 2010, after approval was obtained from the Human Research Ethics Committee, through a structured interview with a sample of 509 fall victims. RESULTS: Most of the participants were male, between 0 and 19 years old, single, with no impairments or preexisting diseases, nor regular use of medication or alcohol. The victims were brought to the hospital by ambulance and were accompanied. Most events occurred at home, were same-level falls, and most frequently resulted from slipping and tripping during recreational activities with a subsequent fracture, contusion or sprain. Most victims were discharged from the hospital after care delivery. Statistically significant associations were found between place of fall and age and gender. CONCLUSION: There is a high incidence of seeking out care in urgent care centers due to falls, which constitutes a severe public health problem that affects both genders in different age groups. The adoption of preventive measures aimed to reduce such events is urgently required.

Relatório do censo brasileiro de diálise de 2010 / 2010 report of the Brazilian dialysis census

INTRODUÇÃO: Dados nacionais sobre diálise crônica são essenciais para o planejamento do tratamento de tal enfermidade. OBJETIVO: Apresentar dados do Censo da Sociedade Brasileira de Nefrologia (SBN) sobre os pacientes com doença renal crônica que estavam em diálise de manutenção em 1 de julho de 2010. MÉTODOS: Levantamento dos dados de unidades de diálise de todo o país. A coleta de dados foi feita utilizando questionário preenchido online pelas unidades de diálise do Brasil cadastradas na SBN. RESULTADOS: Das unidades consultadas, 340 (53,3 por cento) responderam ao Censo. A partir dessas respostas foram feitas estimativas nacionais para a população em diálise. Em julho de 2010, o número estimado de pacientes em diálise foi de 92.091. As estimativas nacionais das taxas de prevalência e de incidência de insuficiência renal crônica em tratamento dialítico foram de 483 e 100 pacientes por milhão da população, respectivamente. O número estimado de pacientes que iniciaram tratamento em 2010 foi 18.972. A taxa anual de mortalidade bruta foi de 17,9 por cento. Dos pacientes prevalentes, 30,7 por cento tinham idade igual ou superior a 65 anos; 90,6 por cento estavam em hemodiálise e 9,4 por cento em diálise peritoneal; 35.639 (38,7 por cento) estavam em fila de espera para transplante; 28 por cento eram diabéticos; 34,5 por cento tinham fósforo sérico > 5,5 mg/dL e 38,5 por cento, hemoglobina < 11 g/dL. O cateter venoso era usado como acesso vascular em 13,6 por cento dos pacientes em hemodiálise. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de pacientes em diálise tem apresentado aumento progressivo. Os dados dos indicadores da qualidade diálise de manutenção melhoraram em relação a 2009 e destacam a importância do censo anual para o planejamento da assistência dialítica.

INTRODUCTION: National chronic dialysis data are fundamental for treatment planning. OBJECTIVE: To report data of the annual survey of the Brazilian Society of Nephrology about patients with chronic renal failure who were on dialysis in 1 July, 2010. METHODS: A national survey based on data from the country's dialysis centers. Data collection was performed by using a questionnaire filled out online by the dialysis centers. RESULTS: 340 (53.3 percent) centers answered the questionnaire. National data were estimated for the overall dialysis population. In July 2010, the estimated total number of patients on dialysis was 92,091. The estimated prevalence and incidence rates of end-stage chronic kidney disease patients on maintenance dialysis were 483 and 100/million population, respectively. The estimated number of patients starting a dialysis program in 2010 was 18,972. The annual crude mortality rate was 17.9 percent. Of those on maintenance dialysis, 30.7 percent were aged 65 years or older, 90.6 percent were on hemodialysis and 9.4 percent on peritoneal dialysis, 35,639 (38.7 percent) were on a kidney transplant waiting list, 28 percent were diabetics, 34.5 percent had serum phosphorus levels > 5.5 mg/dL, and 38.5 percent had hemoglobin levels < 11 g/dL. Vascular access was through a venous catheter in 13.6 percent of the hemodialysis patients. CONCLUSIONS: The number of end-stage kidney disease patients on maintenance dialysis is increasing in Brazil. Data concerning the indicators of the quality of maintenance dialysis improved compared to the prior year, and they highlight the importance of the census to guide chronic dialysis therapy.

Prevalencia de infección por Demodex folliculorum en pacientes que acuden a consulta general de oftalmología / The prevalence of Demodex folliculorum infection in patients attending a general ophthalmological consultation

Objetivos Determinar la prevalencia de infección por Demodex folliculorum en pacientes que asisten a consulta general de oftalmología, y su asociación con blefaritis. Métodos Estudio descriptivo de prevalencia. En forma aleatoria se seleccionaron 128 sujetos que asistieron al Centro Oftalmológico Virgilio Galvis y se determinó la presencia de Demodex folliculorum en 4 pestañas de cada uno. Resultados La prevalencia de infección por Demodex folliculorum fue 42,1 % (n= 54). Se diagnosticó blefaritis en el 38,3 % de los pacientes (n=49) y el 63,2 % de ellos (n=31) fueron positivos para D. folliculorum. En el grupo sin blefaritis (n=79) solo el 29,2 % de los individuos tenían el ácaro (n=23) (p=0.0003). Además se encontró una mayor cantidad de parásitos en los pacientes con blefaritis (índice de carga parasitaria 12,7 vs 5,1 (p=0.0001). El 25 % (n=32) de los participantes presentaban descamación en forma de cilindros y en estos el 96,9 % tenían el ácaro (n= 31), mientras que en los sujetos que no tenían cilindros (n=96) el ácaro estuvo presente solo en el 24 % (n=23). Conclusiones El Demodex folliculorum es un parásito que se encuentra en personas sin lesiones oculares, pero que es más frecuente y presenta una mayor carga parasitaria en pacientes con blefaritis. Nuestros resultados sugieren la necesidad de investigar la presencia de Demodex folliculorum en todo paciente con blefaritis y especialmente en los casos en que se observe presencia de descamación en forma de cilindros en las pestañas.

Objectives Determining Demodex folliculorum infection prevalence in patients attending general ophthalmological consultation and such infection's association with blepharitis. Methods This was a descriptive study of such prevalence. 128 subjects who attended the Virgilio Galvis Eye Centre were randomly selected and the presence of D. folliculorum was determined in 4 eyelashes taken from each of them. Results D. folliculorum infection prevalence was 42.1 % (n=54); blepharitis was diagnosed in 38.3 % of the patients (n=49) and 63.2 % of them (n=31) were positive for D. folliculorum. Only 29.2 % of the individuals in the group without blepharitis (n=79) had mites (n=23) (p=0.0003). A higher number of parasites was found in patients with blepharitis (12.7 parasitic load index cf 5.1; p=0.0001); 25 % (n=32) of the participants had scaling in the form of cylinders and 96.9 % of these had the mites (n=31), whereas the mite was only present in 24 % (n=23) of subjects who had no cylinder-type scaling (n=96). Conclusions Demodex folliculorum is a parasite found in people without ocular lesions; however, it is more frequent and has a higher parasite burden in patients with blepharitis. Our results suggested the need for investigating the presence of D. folliculorum in all patients suffering from blepharitis, especially in cases where cylinder-type scaling has been observed in their eyelashes.

Controle da pressão arterial de pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 e hipertensos nos serviços público e privado de saúde / Blood pressure control in type 2 diabetic and hypertensive patients in public and private Healthcare service

Introdução: Poucos trabalhos avaliam o tratamento da hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) em pacientes com diabetes tipo 2 (DM2) no sistema público e privado de saúde. Nosso estudo tem o objetivo de comparar o tratamento da HAS em pacientes com DM2 atendidos nestes dois sistemas de saúde. Métodos: Desenhamos um estudo de coorte histórica no qual comparamos o tratamento para HAS de pacientes com DM2 atendidos no serviço de Endocrinologia do Ambulatório Central da Universidade de Caxias do Sul (AMCE) e de uma clínica privada de Endocrinologia. Foram revisados os prontuários de 68 pacientes do AMCE e 210 pacientes da clínica privada, que consultaram no período entre maio de 2001 e outubro de 2007. Resultados: Os pacientes do AMCE mostraram controle pressórico semelhante aos da clínica privada. Houve melhora dos níveis pressóricos em ambos os grupos, com diferenças significantes entre as medições iniciais e finais. Ao final, a minoria dos pacientes encontrava-se dentro das metas preconizadas para o controle pressórico. Houve o aumento da quantidade de anti-hipertensivos utilizados em ambos os grupos, e o aumento proporcional das classes desses medicamentos utilizadas ao final do acompanhamento. Destaca-se a utilização de bloqueadores dos receptores de angiotensina II na clínica privada e de inibidores da ECA entre os pacientes do AMCE ao final. Conclusão: Apesar do aumento da proporção de indivíduos com níveis pressóricos adequados, uma minoria de pacientes alcançou as metas propostas. Nossos dados sugerem não haver diferenças em relação ao controle pressórico entre os locais onde os pacientes são tratados

Introduction: Few studies have assessed the treatment of high blood pressure (HBP) in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2) in the public and private health care systems. Our study aims to compare the treatment of HBP in DMT2 patients treated in these two health systems. Methods: We designed a historical cohort study in which we compared the treatment of HBP in DMT2 patients treated at the Endocrinology Service of the Central Clinic of the University of Caxias do Sul (AMCE) and at a private clinic of Endocrinology. We reviewed the charts of 68 patients of the AMCE and 210 patients of the private clinic, who consulted between May 2001 and October 2007. Results: AMCE patients showed HBP management similar to those in private practice. There was improvement in blood pressure levels in both groups, with significant differences between initial and final BP measurements. In the end, a minority of patients were within the recommended goals for blood pressure control. There was an increase in the amount of antihypertensive drugs used in both groups, and a proportional increase in the classes of drugs used at the end of the follow-up period. The study highlights the use of angiotensin II receptor blockers in private practice and ACE inhibitors among AMCE patients at the end. Conclusion: Despite the increase in the proportion of individuals with adequate blood pressure, a minority of patients reached the goals. Our data suggest that there are no differences concerning blood pressure management between the sites where patients are treated

Access to medicines by ambulatory health service users in Mexico: an analysis of the national health surveys 1994 to 2006 / Acceso a medicamentos para los usuarios del primer nivel de los servicios de salud: análisis de las encuestas nacionales de salud 1994, 2000 y 2006

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the medicines prescription, prescription filling, payment expenditure for medicines by ambulatory health service users (HSU) in 2006, and to evaluate its evolution in the last 12 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Using data from the National Health Surveys in 2006 three binary logistic regression models were constructed to identify the variables associated with the prescription rate, prescription filling and payment for medicines in 2006. The results of access to medicines were compared to the ones from previous National Health Services from 1994 and 2000. RESULTS: The type of health service provider was found to be the most important predictors of access to medicines. Although the proportion of HSU obtaining a prescription and paying for drugs has broadly stayed the same as in 1994, the percentage of HSU paying for their prescribed medicines decreased from 70 percent in 1994 to 42 percent at Ministry of Health institutions in 2006. CONCLUSION: The progress in prescription and population access to medicines has been uneven across health service providers.

OBJETIVO: Analizar la prescripción médica, surtimiento de recetas y gasto en medicamentos que tienen los usuarios del primer nivel de los servicios de salud (UPNS) en 2006 y evaluar su evolución en los últimos 12 años. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Utilizando los datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud de 2006 se construyeron tres modelos de regresión logística para identificar los factores asociados con la prescripción, el surtimiento de medicamentos y el pago por medicamentos recetados. Se compararon los resultados del acceso a medicamentos con los de encuestas anteriores de 1994 y 2000. RESULTADOS: La variable más relevante para el acceso a medicamentos fue el tipo de institución donde se prestó atención. Aunque al nivel global la proporción de los UPNS que obtuvieron una prescripción y que pagaron por los medicamentos más o menos se mantuvo estable, el porcentaje de los UPNS que pagaron por los medicamentos en las instituciones de la Secretaría de Salud disminuyó de 70 a 42 por ciento entre 1994 y 2006. CONCLUSIÓN: El mejoramiento del acceso a medicamentos para usuarios de los servicios de salud ha sido desigual a través de las instituciones.

Síndrome metabólica em ambulatório cardiológico / Metabolic syndrome in outpatient cardiology clinics / Síndrome metabólico en ambulatorio cardiológico

Fundamento: No Brasil, a prevalência de síndrome metabólica (SM) é pouco conhecida em várias regiões. Objetivo: Analisar a prevalência da SM, seus componentes e a concordância entre dois critérios diagnósticos numa população com idade > 13 anos. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado de junho a outubro de 2007, em 719 pacientes, em ambulatórios cardiológicos de São Luís, MA. Mediu-se a pressão arterial (PA), peso, altura, circunferência abdominal e perfil lipídico. Avaliaram-se os fatores de risco para a SM segundo o critério da International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Razões de prevalência e intervalos de confiança de 95 por cento foram estimados pela regressão de Poisson. Resultados: A prevalência da SM foi maior em ambos os sexos pelo conceito da IDF (62,3 por cento em homens e 64,6 por cento em mulheres), em relação ao do National Cholesterol Education Program - Adult Treatment Prevention (NCEP ATPIII) (48,9 por cento em homens e 59 por cento em mulheres). Os componentes da SM mais prevalentes foram: hipertensão arterial sistêmica HAS (87,2 por cento e 86 por cento); hipertrigliceridemia (84,4 por cento e 82,5 por cento); circunferência abdominal alterada (77,8 por cento e 100 por cento); HDL-c baixo (58,1 por cento e 49,9 por cento); e glicemia alterada (59,9 por cento e 51,9 por cento), pelos conceitos NCEP ATPIII e IDF, respectivamente. Após análise ajustada, idade > 60 anos e índice de massa corporal (IMC) > 30 foram associados a um maior risco de SM (p < 0,001). Conclusão: A prevalência da SM foi bem maior que a população geral; a (HAS) foi o componente mais prevalente. Houve boa concordância entre os dois critérios, sendo ótima no sexo feminino e regular no masculino.

Background: In Brazil, the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MS) is little known in several regions. Objective: To analyze the prevalence of MS, its components and the agreement between two diagnostic definitions in a population aged > 13 years. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted from June to October 2007 in 719 patients of outpatient cardiology clinics in the city of São Luis, State of Maranhão, Brazil. Blood pressure (BP), weight, height, waist circumference and lipid profile were measured. Risk factors for MS were evaluated according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definition. Prevalence ratios and 95 percent confidence intervals were estimated using Poisson regression. Results: The prevalence of MS was higher in both genders when using IDF definition (62.3 percent in men and 64.6 percent in women) than when using that of the National Cholesterol Education Program - Adult Treatment Prevention (NCEP ATPIII) (48.9 percent in men and 59 percent in women). The most prevalent MS components were: hypertension (87.2 percent and 86 percent); hypertriglyceridemia (84.4 percent and 82.5 percent); increased waist circumference (77.8 percent and 100 percent); low HDL-c (58.1 percent and 49.9 percent); and high blood glucose (59.9 percent and 51.9 percent), using NCEP ATPIII and IDF definitions, respectively. In the adjusted analysis, age > 60 years and body mass index (BMI) > 30 were associated with a higher risk of MS (p<0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of MS was much higher than in the overall population, and hypertension was the most prevalent component. There was good agreement between the two definitions, very good in the female gender and moderate in the male gender.

Fundamento: En Brasil, la prevalencia de síndrome metabólico (SM) es poco conocida en varias regiones. Objetivo: Analizar la prevalencia del SM, sus componentes y la concordancia entre dos criterios diagnósticos en una población con edad > 13 años. Métodos: Estudio transversal, realizado de junio a octubre de 2007, en 719 pacientes, en ambulatorios cardiológicos de São Luís, MA. Se midió la presión arterial (PA), peso, altura, circunferencia abdominal y perfil lipídico. Se evaluaron los factores de riesgo para el SM según el criterio de la International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Razones de prevalencia de intervalos de confianza del 95 por ciento se estimaron por la regresión de Poisson. Resultados: La prevalencia de SM fue mayor en ambos sexos por el concepto de la IDF (62,3 por ciento en hombres y 64,6 por ciento en mujeres), con relación al del National Cholesterol Education Program - Adult Treatment Prevention (NCEP ATPIII) (48,9 por ciento en hombres y 59 por ciento en mujeres). Los componentes del SM más prevalentes fueron: hipertensión arterial sistémica - HAS (87,2 por ciento y 86 por ciento); hipertrigliceridemia (84,4 por ciento y 82,5 por ciento); circunferencia abdominal alterada (77,8 por ciento y 100 por ciento); HDL-c bajo (58,1 por ciento y 49,9 por ciento); y glucemia alterada (59,9 por ciento y 51,9 por ciento), por los conceptos NCEP ATPIII y IDF, respectivamente. Después del análisis ajustado, edad > 60 años e índice de masa corporal (IMC) > 30 se asociaron a un mayor riesgo de SM (p < 0,001). Conclusión: La prevalencia de SM fue mucho mayor que la población general; la HAS fue el componente más prevalente. Hubo buena concordancia entre los dos criterios, siendo óptima en el sexo femenino y regular en el masculino.

Prevalencia de la incontinencia fecal en centros de salud y casas de reposo / Prevalence of fecal incontinence in health centers and nursing home residents

Background: Fecal and urinary incontinence (FI and UI) are psychologically and socially debilitating and embarrassing conditions. Aim: To determine the prevalence of FI and associated factors in patients assessed in health centers (HC) and nursing home (NH) residents. Material and Methods: Prospective, multicentric survey carried out in 3 HC and 16 NH of Santiago. Patients and residents of NH were interrogated about FI between March and July 2004. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 618 patients attending health centers aged 18 to 87 years (75 percent females) and 128 nursing home residents aged 40 to 103 years (80 percent females). The prevalence of liquid or solid FI in HC and NH was 2.7 and 45 percent, respectively. Among the latter, the incontinence for liquids and solids was 19 percent and 42 percent, respectively. The prevalence of UI was 30.1 and 62.7 percent in HC patients and NH residents, respectively. Among patients attending HC, multivariable analysis showed a relation between older age and urinary incontinence with liquid or solid FI Among NH residents, multivariate analysis showed a relation between urinary incontinence and motor disabilities with liquid or solid FI Conclusions: The prevalence of liquid or solid FI among patients assessed in health center is 2.7 percent. This figure increases in older people, those with UI and in NH residents.

Consideraciones en torno al funcionamiento del consultorio diagnóstico y terapéutico de medicina interna / Considerations about the functioning of the clinic of diagnosis and therapeutics in internal medicine

Se analiza el funcionamiento de un Consultorio integral y resolutivo de Medicina interna de nivel secundario, cuyos consultantes provienen en 72 por ciento de la Atención primaria, 22 por ciento de la Atención terciaria y 6 por ciento de la atención de urgencia. Con respecto al destino ulterior de estos consultantes se señala que el 18,5 por ciento abandona al primero o segundo control; el 27 por ciento es devuelto de inmediato a la atención primaria; el 33 por ciento es derivado a la Atención terciaria y sólo el 9 por ciento es hospitalizado, porcentaje que varía considerablemente según el origen de los pacientes. El modelo que se analiza ha permitido superar, en gran parte, el déficit de camas disponibles y de personal para operarlas y ha demostrado que, con ciertos recursos físicos, humanos e instrumentales mínimos, es posible desarrollar una atención ambulatoria expedita, dinámica, integral y resolutiva, que es satisfactoria y útil para los pacientes, a la vez que atractiva y desafiante para los integrantes del equipo de salud. La Medicina interna pierde parte de estas características cuando se circunscribe exclusivamente a la atención de pacientes hospitalizados que son mayoritariamente muy ancianos, crónicos e irreversiblemente deteriorados. Se enfatiza la necesidad de incrementar la capacidad de la atención domiciliaria, que es un recurso que no hemos podido explotar por no disponer de los elementos mínimos requeridos (movilización y enfermería), para poder realizarla en forma eficiente