Geriatric nutritional risk index predicts all-cause mortality in patients with heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES: Geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) might predict the all-cause mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the correlation between GNRI and all-cause mortality in patients with HF. METHODS: We searched the PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases for clinical trials investigating the association between GNRI and all-cause mortality in patients with HF, having the primary endpoint as all-cause mortality. RESULTS: In total, nine studies involving 7,659 subjects were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The results indicated that major risk and moderate risk GNRI (GNRI<92) was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality in elderly patients with HF (hazard ratios [HR] 1.59, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.37-1.85). Low risk GNRI (GNRI<98) group predicted all-cause mortality in elderly HF patients (HR 1.56, 95%CI 1.12-2.18) when compared with the high GNRI value group. A subgroup analysis indicated that the relationship between GNRI and HF might differ based on the subtype of heart failure. CONCLUSIONS: GNRI is a simple and well-established nutritional assessment tool to predict all-cause mortality in patients with HF.

Impact of comorbidities in mexican SARS-COV-2-positive patients: a retrospective analysis in a national cohort

ABSTRACT Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak is a significant challenge for health-care systems around the world. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the impact of comorbidities on the case fatality rate (CFR) and the development of adverse events in patients positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the Mexican population. Materials and methods: We analyzed the data from 13,842 laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 patients in Mexico between January 1, 2020, and April 25, 2020. We investigated the risk of death and the development of adverse events (hospitalization, pneumonia, orotracheal intubation, and intensive care unit [ICU] admission), comparing the number of comorbidities of each patient. Results: The patient mean age was 46.6 ± 15.6 years, 42.3% (n = 5853) of the cases were women, 38.8% of patients were hospitalized, 4.4% were intubated, 29.6% developed pneumonia, and 4.4% had critical illness. The CFR was 9.4%. The risk of hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] = 3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.7-3.7), pneumonia (OR = 3.02, 95% CI: 2.6-3.5), ICU admission (OR = 2, 95% CI: 1.5-2.7), and CFR (hazard ratio = 3.5, 95% CI: 2.9-4.2) was higher in patients with three or more comorbidities than in patients with 1, 2, or with no comorbidities. Conclusions: The number of comorbidities may be a determining factor in the clinical course and its outcomes in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients.

Prognostic Prediction of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test Parameters in Heart Failure Patients with Atrial Fibrillation / Previsão Prognóstica dos Parâmetros do Teste de Esforço Cardiopulmonar em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca e Fibrilação Atrial

Abstract Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased mortality in heart failure (HF) patients. Objective: To evaluate whether the risk of AF patients can be precisely stratified by relation with cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) cut-offs for heart transplantation (HT) selection. Methods: Prospective evaluation of 274 consecutive HF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 40%. The primary endpoint was a composite of cardiac death or urgent HT in 1-year follow-up. The primary endpoint was analysed by several CPET parameters for the highest area under the curve and for positive (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) in AF and sinus rhythm (SR) patients to detect if the current cut-offs for HT selection can precisely stratify the AF group. Statistical differences with a p-value <0.05 were considered significant. Results: There were 51 patients in the AF group and 223 in the SR group. The primary outcome was higher in the AF group (17.6% vs 8.1%, p = 0.038). The cut-off value of pVO2 for HT selection showed a PPV of 100% and an NPV of 95.5% for the primary outcome in the AF group, with a PPV of 38.5% and an NPV of 94.3% in the SR group. The cut-off value of VE/VCO2 slope showed lower values of PPV (33.3%) and similar NPV (92.3%) to pVO2 results in the AF group. Conclusion: Despite the fact that AF carries a worse prognosis for HF patients, the current cut-off of pVO2 for HT selection can precisely stratify this high-risk group.

Resumo Fundamento: A fibrilação atrial (FA) está associada ao aumento da mortalidade em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC). Objetivo: Avaliar se o risco de pacientes com FA pode ser estratificado com precisão em relação aos pontos de corte do teste de esforço cardiopulmonar (TECP) para seleção do transplante cardíaco (TC). Métodos: Avaliação prospectiva de 274 pacientes consecutivos com IC com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo ≤ 40%. O endpoint primário foi um composto de morte cardíaca ou TC urgente no seguimento de 1 ano. O endpoint primário foi analisado através de vários parâmetros do TECP para a maior área sob a curva e para o valor preditivo positivo (VPP) e negativo (VPN) em pacientes com FA e ritmo sinusal (RS) para detectar se os atuais pontos de corte para a seleção de TC podem estratificar com precisão o grupo com FA. Diferenças estatísticas com valor de p < 0,05 foram consideradas significativas. Resultados: Havia 51 pacientes no grupo de FA e 223 no grupo RS. O endpoint primário foi maior no grupo FA (17,6% vs. 8,1%, p = 0,038). O valor de corte de pVO2 para a seleção do TC mostrou um VPP de 100% e um VPN de 95,5% para o endpoint primário no grupo FA, com um VPP de 38,5% e um VPN de 94,3% no grupo RS. O valor de corte da inclinação VE/VCO2 apresentou valores mais baixos de VPP (33,3%) e valor semelhante de VPN (92,3%) aos resultados de pVO2 no grupo FA. Conclusões: Apesar do fato de a FA apresentar um pior prognóstico para os pacientes com IC, o atual ponto de corte de pVO2 para a seleção de TC pode estratificar com precisão esse grupo de alto risco.

Long-Term Mortality in Cardioinhibitory Carotid Sinus Hypersensitivity Patient Cohort / Mortalidade de uma Coorte de Portadores da Resposta Cardioinibitória à Massagem do Seio Carotídeo - Estudo Longitudinal com 11 Anos de Seguimento

Abstract Background: Cardioinhibitory carotid sinus hypersensitivity (CICSH) is defined as ventricular asystole ≥ 3 seconds in response to 5-10 seconds of carotid sinus massage (CSM). There is a common concern that a prolonged asystole episode could lead to death directly from bradycardia or as a consequence of serious trauma, brain injury or pause-dependent ventricular arrhythmias. Objective: To describe total mortality, cardiovascular mortality and trauma-related mortality of a cohort of CICSH patients, and to compare those mortalities with those found in a non-CICSH patient cohort. Methods: In 2006, 502 patients ≥ 50 years of age were submitted to CSM. Fifty-two patients (10,4%) were identified with CICSH. Survival of this cohort was compared with that of another cohort of 408 non-CICSH patients using Kaplan-Meier curves. Cox regression was used to examine the relation between CICSH and mortality. The level of statistical significance was set at 0.05. Results: After a maximum follow-up of 11.6 years, 29 of the 52 CICSH patients (55.8%) were dead. Cardiovascular mortality, trauma-related mortality and the total mortality rate of this population were not statistically different from that found in 408 patients without CICSH. (Total mortality of CICSH patients 55.8% vs. 49,3% of non-CICSH patients; p: 0.38). Conclusion: At the end of follow-up, the 52 CICSH patient cohort had total mortality, cardiovascular mortality and trauma-related mortality similar to that found in 408 patients without CICSH.

Resumo Fundamento: A resposta cardioinibitória (RCI) à massagem do seio carotídeo (MSC) caracteriza-se por assistolia ≥ 3 segundos provocada por 5 a 10 segundos de MSC. Existe uma preocupação de que pacientes com RCI e episódios prolongados de assistolia possam falecer em consequência direta de bradiarritmia, ou em decorrência de lesão cerebral, trauma grave ou arritmia ventricular pausa dependente. Objetivos: Determinar a mortalidade total, a mortalidade cardiovascular e a mortalidade relacionada ao trauma de uma coorte de pacientes com RCI à MSC e comparar essas mortalidades com as de uma coorte de pacientes sem RCI à MSC. Métodos: Em 2006, 502 pacientes com idade igual ou superior a 50 anos foram submetidos à MSC. Destes, 52 pacientes (10,4%) foram identificados com RCI. A sobrevida desta coorte foi comparada àquela observada em uma coorte de 408 pacientes sem RCI por meio de curvas de Kaplan-Meier. A regressão de Cox foi utilizada para avaliação da relação entre a RCI à MSC e a mortalidade. Variáveis com p < 0,05 foram consideradas estatisticamente significativas. Resultados: Após seguimento máximo de 11,6 anos, 29 dos 52 portadores de RCI (55,8%) faleceram. A mortalidade total, a mortalidade cardiovascular e a mortalidade relacionada ao trauma desta coorte de pacientes não foram significativamente diferentes daquelas encontradas nos 408 pacientes sem RCI (mortalidade total com RCI: 55,8% versus 49,3% sem RCI; p: 0,38). Conclusões: No fim do seguimento, a mortalidade dos 52 portadores de RCI foi semelhante à observada em uma coorte de pacientes sem RCI. A mortalidade cardiovascular e a relacionada ao trauma também foi semelhante nas duas coortes.

Acurácia dos instrumentos preditivos de sobrevivência em pacientes idosos sob cuidados paliativos em atendimento domiciliar em Curitiba / Accuracy of survival prediction instruments in older patients undergoing home-based palliative care in Curitiba, Brazil

INTRODUÇÃO: Escores prognósticos são cruciais para evitar medidas desproporcionais em cuidados paliativos, mas seu uso em pacientes não oncológicos, em cuidado domiciliar e em países subdesenvolvidos apresenta carência de evidência. OBJETIVO: Comparar a acurácia dos instrumentos preditivos de sobrevivência Palliative Performance Scale (PPS), Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), Palliative Prognostic Index (PPI) e Palliative Prognostic Score (PaP) na população idosa do Serviço de Atenção Domiciliar (SAD) de Curitiba. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de estudo de acurácia diagnóstica de caráter prospectivo e observacional conduzido com idosos em cuidados paliativos no SAD de Curitiba. Aplicaram-se os escores PPS, KPS, PPI e PaP, e após 90 dias os pacientes foram avaliados quanto aos desfechos internamento hospitalar e óbito. RESULTADOS: A amostra final foi de 53 pacientes com idade ≥ 60 anos; desses, 28,3% (n = 15) tinham ≥ 85 anos. Na análise do desfecho binário (óbito ou não), foi identificado que a escala PaP teve melhor acurácia (79,2%). Na análise do desfecho ordinal (óbito, hospitalização ou nenhuma dessas opções), a escala com melhor acurácia foi o PPI (58,5%), mas todas as escalas avaliaram a amostra de forma semelhante, sem significância estatística. Em ambas as análises, os pacientes com idade ≥ 85 anos obtiveram resultados semelhantes aos demais. Apesar de o SAD ser um ambiente distinto, obteve resultados similares aos de outros estudos que incluíram hospitais e hospices. CONCLUSÃO: As escalas prognósticas apresentaram melhor acurácia na predição somente de óbito, mas quando usadas para relacionar a hospitalização, perdem sua acurácia. Não houve uma escala superior às demais, e não existiu distinção da acurácia referente à idade.

INTRODUCTION: Prognostic scores are crucial to avoid unnecessary measures in palliative care, although their use in non-cancer patients undergoing home care in low-income countries lacks evidence. OBJECTIVE: To compare the accuracy of the survival prediction instruments Palliative Performance Scale (PPS), Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), Palliative Prognostic Index (PPI), and Palliative Prognostic Score (PaP) in the older population treated by a Home Care Service (HCS) program in Curitiba, southern Brazil. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational, diagnostic accuracy study evaluating older adults undergoing HCS-provided palliative care. PPS, The PPS, KPS, PaP, and PPI scores were administered, and after 90 days the patients were evaluated for the outcomes death and hospital admission. RESULTS: The final sample consisted of 53 patients aged ≥ 60 years; 28.3% (n = 15) of those had age ≥ 85 years. In the binary analysis, PaP had the best accuracy (79.2%). In the ordinal analysis, PPI had the best accuracy (58.5%), but all prognostic scales evaluated the sample similarly, with no significant differences. In both analyses, the patients aged ≥ 85 years had similar results compared to the total sample. Although the HCS program is a distinct setting, the study results were similar to those of studies conducted in hospices and hospitals. CONCLUSION: The prognostic scores showed better accuracy when predicting only the outcome death but are less accurate when admission is included. There was no superior scale neither any difference in accuracy regarding age range.

Effects of hyperuricemia on incident renal replacement therapy and all-cause mortality among patients with chronic kidney disease stages 3-5: a retrospective cohort study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Findings regarding the effects of hyperuricemia on renal function and mortality have been inconsistent. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of hyperuricemia on incident renal replacement therapy and all-cause mortality among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective cohort study conducted in a medical center in Taiwan. METHODS: Patients with CKD in stages 3-5, without histories of renal replacement therapy, were consecutively recruited from 2007 to 2013. Their medical history, laboratory and medication data were collected from hospital records. The mean uric acid level in the first year of follow-up was used for analyses. Hyperuricemia was defined as mean uric acid level ≥ 7.0 mg/dl in men or ≥ 6.0 mg/dl in women. The primary outcomes were incident renal replacement therapy and all-cause mortality, and these data were retrospectively collected from hospital records until the end of 2015. RESULTS: A total of 4,381 patients were analyzed (mean age 71.0 ± 14.8 years; males 62.7%), and the median follow-up period was 2.5 years. Patients with hyperuricemia were at increased risk of incident renal replacement therapy and all-cause mortality, especially those with CKD in stages 4 or 5. Compared with patients with CKD in stage 3 and normouricemia, patients with CKD in stages 4 or 5 presented significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality only if they had hyperuricemia. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with CKD in stages 3-5, hyperuricemia was associated with higher risk of incident renal replacement therapy and all-cause mortality. Whether treatment with uric acid-lowering drugs in these patients would improve their outcomes merits further investigation.

Social determinants of health and frailty are associated with all-cause mortality in older adults / Los determinantes de la salud y la fragilidad están asociados con la mortalidad por todas las causas en adultos mayores

Abstract: Objective: To examine the longitudinal association between the social determinants of health (SDH) and frailty status with all-cause mortality in older Mexican adults. Materials and methods: Longitudinal study with a sample of adults aged 60 and over of Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health (SAGE) in Mexico. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to estimate the SDH and frailty-related hazard ratios (HR) for mortality over the study period. Results: Overall mortality rate was 16.9%. Higher education, having a higher frequency of inter-personal contacts (HR=0.96;p<0.01) reduced the risk of dying, after adjusting for potential confounders. While, not counting on someone to trust (HR= 1.59;p<0.03) and having a sense a lack of control over important decisions in life increased the mortality risk. Conclusions: Given that frailty and the SDH affect health using independent pathways, public health systems in Mexico could benefit from increasing the capacity of identifying frail and isolated older adults and providing a risk-stratified health care accordingly.

Resumen: Objetivo: Examinar la asociación longitudinal entre los determinantes sociales en salud (DSS) y la fragilidad con la mortalidad por todas las causas en adultos mayores mexicanos. Material y métodos: Estudio longitudinal con una muestra de adultos mayores de 60 años o más del estudio Envejecimiento Global y Salud de los Adultos (SAGE, por sus siglas en inglés) en México. Se utilizó el modelo riesgos proporcionales de Cox para estimar la asociación entre DSS y la fragilidad en la mortalidad. Resultados: La tasa de mortalidad general fue 16.9%. Tener mayor educación y una mayor frecuencia de contactos interpersonales (HR= 0.96,p<0.01) reducen el riesgo de morir, después de ajustar por covariables. Mientras tanto, no contar con alguien en quien confiar (HR= 1.59;p<0.03) y tener una sensación de falta de control sobre las decisiones importantes en la vida aumentan el riesgo de mortalidad. Conclusiones: Dado que la fragilidad y los DSS inciden sobre la salud usando vías independientes, el sistema de salud de México se beneficiaría al incrementar su capacidad para detectar a los adultos mayores frágiles y con aislamiento social, para proveer cuidados a la salud.

Elevated High-Sensitivity Troponin I in the Stabilized Phase after an Acute Coronary Syndrome Predicts All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in a Highly Admixed Population: A 7-Year Cohort / A Troponina I de Alta Sensibilidade Elevada na Fase Estabilizada após Síndrome Coronariana Aguda Prevê Mortalidade por Todas as Causas e Mortalidade Cardiovascular em uma População Altamente Miscigenada: Uma Coorte de 7 Anos

Abstract Background: High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) has played an important role in the risk stratification of patients during the in-hospital phase of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), but few studies have determined its role as a long-term prognostic marker in the outpatient setting. Objective: To investigate the association between levels of hs-cTnI measured in the subacute phase after an ACS event and long-term prognosis in a highly admixed population. Methods: We measured levels of hs-cTnI in 525 patients 25 to 90 days after admission for an ACS event; these patients were then divided into tertiles according to hs-cTnI levels and followed for up to 7 years. We compared all-cause and cardiovascular mortality using Cox proportional hazards models and adopting a significance level of 5%. Results: After a median follow-up of 51 months, patients in the highest tertile had a greater hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause mortality after adjustment for age, sex, known cardiovascular risk factors, medication use, and demographic factors (HR: 3.84, 95% CI: 1.92-8.12). These findings persisted after further adjustment for estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and left ventricular ejection fraction < 0.40 (HR: 6.53, 95% CI: 2.12-20.14). Cardiovascular mortality was significantly higher in the highest tertile after adjustment for age and sex (HR: 5.65, 95% CI: 1.94-16.47) and both in the first (HR: 4.90, 95% CI: 1.35-17.82) and second models of multivariate adjustment (HR: 5.89, 95% CI: 1.08-32.27). Conclusions: Elevated hs-cTnI levels measured in the stabilized phase after an ACS event are independent predictors of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in a highly admixed population.

Resumo Fundamento: A troponina cardíaca de alta sensibilidade I (TnI-as) tem desempenhado um papel importante na estratificação de risco dos pacientes durante a fase intra-hospitalar da síndrome coronariana aguda (SCA), mas poucos estudos determinaram seu papel como marcador prognóstico de longo prazo no ambiente ambulatorial. Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre os níveis de TnI-as medidos na fase subaguda após um evento de SCA e o prognóstico a longo prazo, em uma população altamente miscigenada. Métodos: Medimos os níveis de TnI-as em 525 pacientes em um período de 25 a 90 dias após a entrada em hospital por um evento de SCA; esses pacientes foram então divididos em tercis conforme os níveis de TnI-as, e acompanhados por até 7 anos. Comparamos as mortalidades por todas as causas e cardiovascular através de modelos de riscos proporcionais de Cox e adotando um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Após um acompanhamento médio de 51 meses, os pacientes no tercil mais alto apresentaram uma taxa de risco (HR) maior para mortalidade por todas as causas, após ajustes para idade, sexo, fatores de risco cardiovascular conhecidos, uso de medicação e fatores demográficos (HR: 3,84 IC 95%: 1,92-8,12). Esses achados persistiram após um ajuste adicional para uma taxa de filtração glomerular (TFG) estimada < 60 ml/min/1,73 m2 e uma fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo < 0,40 (HR: 6,53; IC95%: 2,12-20,14). A mortalidade cardiovascular foi significativamente maior no tercil mais alto, após ajustes para idade e sexo (RR: 5,65; IC95%: 1,94-16,47) e tanto no primeiro modelo de ajuste multivariado (HR: 4,90; IC 95%: 1,35-17,82) quanto no segundo (HR: 5,89; IC95%: 1,08-32,27). Conclusões: Níveis elevados de TnI-as, medidos na fase estabilizada após um evento de SCA, são preditores independentes de mortalidade por todas as causas e de mortalidade cardiovascular em uma população altamente miscigenada.

Impacto clínico del desescalamiento a ertapenem en pacientes críticos con infecciones por Enterobacteriaceae / Clinical impact of ertapenem de-escalation in critically-ill patients with Enterobacteriaceae infections

Resumen Introducción: Ertapenem ha demostrado eficacia frente a Enterobacteriaceae productoras de β-lactamasas de espectro extendido, pero carece de actividad contra bacterias no fermentadoras; el desescalamiento a este antimicrobiano cuando no existe la presencia de P. aeruginosa podría reducir la presión selectiva contra esta bacteria y mejorar los resultados clínicos. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto clínico del desescalamiento de antimicrobianos con cobertura anti-pseudomonas a ertapenem, un agente sin este espectro, en pacientes críticos con infecciones por Enterobacteriaceae. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte prospectivo en adultos admitidos a Unidades de Cuidado Intensivo (UCI) con infecciones por Enterobacteriaceae, que habían sido desescalados de una cobertura anti-pseudomonas, a un antimicrobiano sin la misma (ertapenem). Se realizó un modelo de riesgo proporcional de Cox comparando mortalidad por cualquier causa y duración de estancia hospitalaria entre aquellos pacientes que permanecieron con cobertura anti-pseudomonas versus aquellos que fueron desescalados a ertapenem. Resultados: 105 pacientes en el grupo anti-pseudomonas fueron comparados con 148 pacientes del grupo de desescalamiento a ertapenem. El desescalamiento estuvo asociado con una menor mortalidad por cualquier causa comparado con los pacientes que permanecieron con cobertura anti-pseudomonas (hazard ratio ajustado 0,24; IC 95%: 0,12-0,46). La estancia hospitalaria en UCI fue similar en ambos grupos. Discusión: Los pacientes de UCI con infecciones por Enterobacteriaceae desescalados a terapia con ertapenem, tuvieron mejores resultados clínicos comparados con aquellos que permanecieron en terapia anti-pseudomonas, sugiriendo que el desescalamiento es una práctica segura en esta población.

Background: Ertapenem has proven to be effective for extended-spectrum beta-lactamases-producing Enterobacteriaceae but lacks activity against non-fermenters; de-escalation to this antibiotic may reduce the selection of resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and improve clinical outcomes. Aim: To evaluate the clinical impact of de-escalation from broad-spectrum anti-pseudomonal agents to ertapenem, a non-pseudomonal antibiotics for Enterobacteriaceae infections in critically-ill patients. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study in adult patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) who had Enterobacteriaceae infections and were de-escalated from empiric anti-pseudomonal coverage to non-pseudomonal antibiotics. Cox proportional hazards models were performed comparing all-cause mortality and length of hospital stay between patients who remained on anti-pseudomonal coverage versus those who were de-escalated to ertapenem. Results: 105 patients in the anti-pseudomonal group were compared to 148 patients in the ertapenem de-escalation group. De-escalation was associated with lower all-cause mortality compared to patients who remained on anti-pseudomonal coverage (adjusted Hazard Ratio 0.24; 95% CI: 0.12-0.46). The length of ICU stay was similar between the groups. Discussion: ICU patients with Enterobacteriaceae infections de-escalated to ertapenem therapy had better outcomes compared to patients who remained on broad-spectrum, anti-pseudomonal therapy, suggesting that de-escalation is a safe approach amongst ICU patients.

Estudo do impacto da fragilidade, multimorbidade e incapacidade funcional na sobrevida de idosos ambulatoriais / Survival of elderly outpatients: effects of frailty, multimorbidity and disability

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o impacto da fragilidade, da multimorbidade e da incapacidade funcional na sobrevida de idosos assistidos em ambulatório de geriatria e identificar os fatores clínicos de risco associados ao óbito. Estudo longitudinal, com 133 idosos avaliados inicialmente em relação à fragilidade, multimorbidade (presença simultânea de 3 doenças crônicas ou mais) e perda funcional nas Atividades de Vida Diária. Utilizou-se o método Kaplan Meier, para a análise de sobrevida, e a regressão de Cox, para a associação dos fatores clínicos com o óbito. Após seguimento de seis anos, 21,2% dos participantes faleceram, sendo a sobrevida menor entre os idosos frágeis (p < 0,05). As variáveis fragilidade (HR = 2,26; IC95%: 1,03-4,93) e Insuficiência Renal Crônica (HR = 3,00; IC95%: 1,20-7,47) foram fatores de maiores riscos para óbito na análise multivariada. A fragilidade impactou negativamente na sobrevida desses pacientes, porém não foi observada associação estatisticamente significativa em relação à multimorbidade e perda funcional. O rastreio de vulnerabilidades no serviço ambulatorial de geriatria é relevante, em virtude do número expressivo de idosos portadores de síndromes geriátricas que utilizam este tipo de atendimento e do direcionamento dos cuidados desses indivíduos.

Abstract This study aims to analyze the impact of frailty, multimorbidity and disability on the survival of elderly people attended in a geriatric outpatient facility, and identify the clinical risk factors associated with death. It is a longitudinal study, with 133 elderly people initially evaluated in relation to frailty, multimorbidity (simultaneous presence of three or more chronic diseases) and disability in Daily Life Activities. The Kaplan Meier method was used to analyze survival time, and the Cox regression was used for association of the clinical factors with death. In follow-up over six years, 21.2% of the participants died, survival being lowest among those who were fragile (p < 0.05). The variables frailty (HR = 2.26; CI95%: 1.03-4.93) and Chronic Renal Insufficiency (HR = 3.00; CI95%: 1.20-7.47) were the factors of highest risk for death in the multivariate analysis. Frailty had a negative effect on the survival of these patients, but no statistically significant association was found in relation to multimorbidity or disability. Tracking of vulnerabilities in the outpatient geriatric service is important, due to the significant number of elderly people with geriatric syndromes that use this type of service, and the taking of decisions on directions for care of these individuals.

Prognostic factors in patients undergoing early-start peritoneal dialysis within 24 h after catheter insertion

This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, prognosis, and factors for survival of patients who underwent early-start peritoneal dialysis (PD) within 24 h after catheter insertion three years after PD. This study was conducted from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2017. All adult patients who were diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and underwent PD for the first time within 24 h after catheter insertion in our hospital were included. All patients with PD were followed-up until they withdrew from PD, switching to hemodialysis, were transferred to other medical centers, underwent renal transplantation, died or were lost to follow-up, or continued to undergo dialysis until the end of the study period. The follow-up observation lasted three years. The number of eligible patients was 110, and switching to hemodialysis and death were the main reasons for patients to withdraw from PD. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year technical survival rates of patients were 89.1, 79.1, and 79.1% respectively, while the 1-, 2- and 3-year survival rates were 90, 81.8, and 81.8%, respectively. The Charlson comorbidity index, age, hemoglobin, serum albumin, diabetic nephropathy, chronic glomerulonephritis, and hypertensive renal damage were independent risk factors that affected the prognosis of PD patients. Under the condition of ensuring the quality of the PD catheter insertion, early-start PD within 24 h after catheter insertion is a safe treatment approach for ESRD patients.

Um estudo longitudinal da associação do capital social e mortalidade entre idosos brasileiros residentes em comunidade / Un estudio longitudinal sobre la asociación del capital social y mortalidad entre ancianos brasileños residentes en comunidades / A longitudinal study of the association between social capital and mortality in community-dwelling elderly Brazilians

Resumo: O objetivo do estudo foi verificar se o capital social seria um preditor da mortalidade por todas as causas entre idosos brasileiros residentes em comunidade. Participaram 935 idosos sobreviventes da coorte idosa do Projeto Bambuí em 2004, que foram acompanhados até 2011. O desfecho foi a mortalidade por todas as causas e a exposição de interesse foi o capital social, mensurado em seus dois componentes, o cognitivo (coesão social e o suporte social) e o estrutural (participação social e satisfação com a vizinhança). Variáveis sociodemográficas, de condições de saúde e tabagismo foram incluídas na análise para o propósito de ajuste. A análise dos dados baseou-se no modelo dos riscos proporcionais de Cox, que fornece hazard ratios (HR) e intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%). O componente estrutural do capital social, na dimensão da participação social, foi o único independentemente associado à mortalidade: os idosos que não participavam de grupos sociais ou associações apresentaram um risco de morte duas vezes maior (HR = 2,28; IC95%: 1,49-3,49) que suas contrapartes. Os resultados desta investigação evidenciam a necessidade de estender as intervenções direcionadas à promoção da longevidade para além do campo específico de atuação da saúde, voltando-se também para características ambientais e sociais.

Resumen: El objetivo del estudio fue verificar si el capital social sería un predictor de la mortalidad por todas las causas entre ancianos brasileños residentes en comunidades. Participaron 935 ancianos, supervivientes de la cohorte de ancianos del Proyecto Bambuí en 2004, a quienes se les realizó un seguimiento hasta 2011. El desenlace fue la mortalidad por todas las causas y la exposición de interés fue el capital social, medido en sus dos componentes, el cognitivo (cohesión social y apoyo social) y el estructural (participación social y satisfacción con el vecindario). Las variables sociodemográficas, de condiciones de salud, el tabaquismo, se incluyeron en el análisis para el propósito de ajuste. El análisis de los datos se basó en el modelo de riesgos proporcionales de Cox, que proporciona hazard ratios (HR) e intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%). El componente estructural del capital social, en su dimensión de la participación social, fue el único independientemente asociado a la mortalidad: los ancianos que no participaban en grupos sociales o asociaciones presentaron un riesgo de muerte dos veces mayor (HR = 2,28; IC95%: 1,49-3,49) que sus contrapartes. Los resultados de esta investigación evidencian la necesidad de extender las intervenciones dirigidas a la promoción de la longevidad hacia más allá del campo específico de actuación de la salud, dirigiéndose también hacia características ambientales y sociales.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to verify whether social capital is a predictor of all-cause mortality in community-dwelling elderly Brazilians. Participation included 935 surviving elderly from the elderly cohort of the Bambui Project in 2004, who were followed until 2011. The outcome was all-cause mortality and the exposure of interest was social capital, measured in its two components, cognitive (social cohesion and social support) and structural (social participation and neighborhood satisfaction). Sociodemographic variables, health conditions, and smoking were included in the analysis for adjustment purposes. Data analysis was based on the Cox proportional hazards model, providing hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The social participation dimension of social capital's structural component was the only dimension independently associated with mortality: elderly Brazilians that did not participate in social groups or associations showed a two-fold higher risk of death (HR = 2.28; 95%CI: 1.49-3.49) compared to their peers. The study's results reveal the need to extend interventions beyond the specific field of health in order to promote longevity, focusing on environmental and social characteristics.

Proportional weight loss in six months as a risk factor for mortality in stage IV non-small cell lung cancer / Perda de peso proporcional em seis meses como fator de risco para mortalidade no câncer de pulmão de células não pequenas estádio IV

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate different weight loss (WL) cut-off points as prognostic markers of 3-month survival after diagnosis of stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: This was a prospective study involving 104 patients with metastatic (stage IV) NSCLC who were admitted to a cancer treatment center in southern Brazil between January of 2014 and November of 2016. We evaluated total WL and WL per month, as well as WL and WL per month in the 6 months preceding the diagnosis. The patients were followed for 3 months after diagnosis. A Cox proportional hazards regression model and Kaplan-Meier curves were used in order to evaluate 3-month survival. Results: The median WL in the 6 months preceding the diagnosis was 6% (interquartile range, 0.0-12.9%). Patients with WL ≥ 5% had a median survival of 78 days, compared with 85 days for those with WL < 5% (p = 0.047). Survival at 3 months was 72% for the patients with WL ≥ 5% (p = 0.047), 61% for those with WL ≥ 10% (p < 0.001), and 45% for those with WL ≥ 15% (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the hazard ratio for risk of death was 4.51 (95% CI: 1.32-15.39) for the patients with WL ≥ 5%, 6.34 (95% CI: 2.31-17.40) for those with WL ≥ 10%, and 14.17 (95% CI: 5.06-39.65) for those with WL ≥ 15%. Conclusions: WL in the 6 months preceding the diagnosis of NSCLC is a relevant prognostic factor and appears to be directly proportional to the rate of survival at 3 months.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar diferentes pontos de corte da perda de peso (PP) como marcadores prognósticos de sobrevida em 3 meses após o diagnóstico de câncer de pulmão de células não pequenas estádio IV (CPCNP). Métodos: Estudo prospectivo envolvendo 104 pacientes com CPCNP metastático (estádio IV) que foram internados em um centro de tratamento de câncer no sul do Brasil entre janeiro de 2014 e novembro de 2016. Avaliamos a PP total e PP por mês, bem como PP e PP por mês nos 6 meses anteriores ao diagnóstico. Os pacientes foram acompanhados por 3 meses após o diagnóstico. Um modelo de regressão de riscos proporcionais de Cox e curvas de Kaplan-Meier foram utilizados para avaliar a sobrevida em 3 meses. Resultados: A mediana da PP nos 6 meses anteriores ao diagnóstico foi de 6% (intervalo interquartil, 0,0-12,9%). Pacientes com PP ≥ 5% tiveram uma sobrevida mediana de 78 dias, comparados a 85 dias para aqueles com PP < 5% (p = 0,047). A sobrevida em 3 meses foi de 72% para os pacientes com PP ≥ 5% (p = 0,047), 61% para aqueles com PP ≥ 10% (p < 0,001) e 45% para aqueles com PP ≥ 15% (p < 0,001). Na análise multivariada, a taxa de risco para óbito foi de 4,51 (IC95%: 1,32-15,39) para os pacientes com PP ≥ 5%, 6,34 (IC95%: 2,31-17,40) para aqueles com PP ≥ 10%, e 14,17 (IC95%: 5,06-39,65) para aqueles com PP ≥ 15%. Conclusões: A PP nos 6 meses anteriores ao diagnóstico de CPCNP é um fator prognóstico relevante e parece ser diretamente proporcional à taxa de sobrevida em 3 meses.

Up to 15-Year Survival of Men and Women after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Paid by the Brazilian Public Healthcare System in the State of Rio de Janeiro, 1999-2010 / Sobrevida em até 15 Anos de Homens e Mulheres após Intervenção Coronariana Percutânea Paga pelo Sistema Único de Saúde no Estado do Rio de Janeiro, 1999-2010

Abstract Background: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the most frequently used invasive therapy for ischemic heart disease (IHD). Studies able to provide information about PCI's effectiveness should be conducted in a population of real-world patients. Objectives: To assess the survival rate of IHD patients treated with PCI in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ). Methods: Administrative (1999-2010) and death (1999-2014) databases of dwellers aged ≥ 20 years old in the state of RJ submitted to one single PCI paid by the Brazilian public healthcare system (SUS) between 1999 and 2010 were linked. Patients were grouped as follows: 20-49 years old, 50-69 years old and ≥ 70 years old, and PCI in primary PCI, with stent and without stent placement (bare metal stent). Survival probabilities in 30 days, one year and 15 years were estimated by using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox hazards regression models were used to compare risks among sex, age groups and types of PCI. Test results with a p-value < 0.05 were deemed statistically significant. Results: Data of 19,263 patients (61 ± 11 years old, 63.6% men) were analyzed. Survival rates of men vs. women in 30 days, one year and 15 years were: 97.3% (97.0-97.6%) vs. 97.1% (96.6-97.4%), 93.6% (93.2-94.1%) vs. 93.4% (92.8-94.0%), and 55.7% (54.0-57.4%) vs. 58.1% (55.8-60.3%), respectively. The oldest age group was associated with lower survival rates in all periods. PCI with stent placement had higher survival rates than those without stent placement during a two-year follow-up. After that, both procedures had similar survival rates (HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.82-1.00). Conclusions: In a population of real-world patients, women had a higher survival rate than men within 15 years after PCI. Moreover, using a bare-metal stent failed to improve survival rates after a two-year follow-up compared to simple balloon angioplasty.

Resumo Fundamento: A intervenção coronariana percutânea (ICP) é o tratamento invasivo mais frequentemente realizado na doença isquêmica do coração (DIC). Estudos capazes de prover informação sobre a sua efetividade são importantes. Objetivo: Avaliar a sobrevida em até 15 anos de pacientes submetidos a ICP no estado do Rio de Janeiro (ERJ). Métodos: Bases de dados administrativas (1999-2010) e de óbitos (1999-2014) dos residentes com idade ≥ 20 anos do ERJ submetidos a uma única ICP paga pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) entre 1999-2010 foram relacionadas. Os pacientes foram agrupados em 20-49, 50-69 ou ≥ 70 anos, e as ICP em primária (ICP-P), sem stent (ICP-SS) e com stent convencional (ICP-CS). As probabilidades de sobrevida em 30 dias, um ano e 15 anos foram estimadas pelo método de Kaplan-Meier. Modelos de regressão de risco de Cox foram utilizados para comparar riscos entre sexo, faixas etárias e tipos de ICP. Resultados dos testes com um valor de p < 0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. Resultados: Foram analisados os dados de 19.263 pacientes (61±11 anos, 63,6% homens). A sobrevida de homens vs. mulheres em 30 dias, um ano e 15 anos foram: 97,3% (97,0-97,6%) vs. 97,1% (96,6-97,4%), 93,6% (93,2-94,1%) vs. 93,4% (92,8-94,0%), e 55,7% (54,0-57,4%) vs. 58,1% (55,8-60,3%), respectivamente. Idade ≥ 70 anos foi associada à menor taxa de sobrevida em todos os períodos. A ICP-CS foi associada a uma sobrevida maior do que a ICP-SS até dois anos de acompanhamento, e após este período ambos os procedimentos apresentaram taxas de sobrevida semelhantes (HR 0,91, IC 95% 0,82-1,00). Conclusões: Mulheres apresentaram maiores taxas de sobrevida em 15 anos após ICP, e o uso de stent convencional não esteve associado a um aumento de sobrevida em longo prazo.

Comparación de la eficacia y seguridad de flecainida y dronedarona como terapias antiarrítmicas para mantenimiento de ritmo sinusal en fibrilación auricular / Comparison of the efficacy and safety of dronedarone and flecainide as maintenance antiarrhythmic therapy for sinus rhythm in atrial fibrillation

Resumen Introducción y objetivos: Dronedarona y flecainida son antiarrítmicos de primera elección para reducir recurrencias de fibrilación auricular (FA), sin existir estudios que los comparen entre sí. Nuestro objetivo es comparar la eficacia en cuanto a prevención de recurrencias y seguridad de ambos fármacos. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo en el que se incluyeron 123 pacientes de forma consecutiva en tratamiento con flecainida o dronedarona desde octubre de 2010 hasta febrero de 2013 por FA paroxística (76.4%) y FA persistente (23.6%). Se realizó cardioversión eléctrica en un 7.3% de los pacientes y farmacológica en un 16.3%. La mediana (rango intercuartílico) de seguimiento fue de 301 días (92-474), con una media de 2.8 revisiones por paciente. Se realizó análisis de tiempo hasta el primer evento mediante Kaplan-Meier y regresión de Cox ajustada por un índice de propensión. Resultados: De entre los 123 sujetos incluidos con FA, 71 fueron tratados con flecainida y 52 con dronedarona. Durante el seguimiento se registraron 36 recurrencias y 20 efectos adversos. Se documentaron un 36.6% de recurrencias en los pacientes tratados con flecainida en comparación con un 21% en los tratados con dronedarona (p = 0.073). En el análisis multivariante, dronedarona se mostró al menos tan eficaz como flecainida para prevenir recurrencias de FA (HR: 0.53, IC 95%: 0.20-1.44, p = 0.221) y demostró un perfil de seguridad comparable al de flecainida (HR: 0.68, IC 95%: 0.18-2.53, p = 0.566). Conclusiones: Según nuestra experiencia, dronedarona resulta al menos tan eficaz como flecainida para el mantenimiento de ritmo sinusal, con un buen perfil de tolerabilidad, a pesar de pautarse en pacientes con un perfil clínico más desfavorable.

Abstract Introduction and objectives: Dronedarone and flecainide are the first pharmacological choice to reduce recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF); however, there are no studies comparing them. A study was performed to compare the efficacy in terms of recurrence of AF and safety of both drugs. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted that included 123 consecutive patients treated with flecainide or dronedarone due to paroxysmal AF (76.4%) or persistent AF (23.6%), from October 2010 to February 2013. Electrical cardioversion was performed in 7.3% of patients and pharmacological cardioversion in 16.3%. The median (interquartile range) follow-up was 301 days (92-474) with a mean of 2.8 reviews per patient. Time to first event analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression, adjusted for propensity score. Results: Of the 123 consecutive patients with AF included, 71 were on dronedarone and 52 on flecainide. During the follow-up, there were 36 AF recurrences and 20 safety events. There were recurrences in 36.6% of patients treated with flecainide, compared with 21% of those receiving dronedarone (P = .073). Dronedarone showed to be at least as effective as flecainide in preven- ting recurrence of atrial fibrillation (HR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.20-1.44, P = .221), and demonstrated an acceptable safety profile when compared with flecainide (HR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.18-2.53, P = .566). Conclusions: In our experience, dronedarone has been at least as effective and safe as flecainide, despite it was most frequently prescribed in patients with worse baseline risk profile.

Vaginal cuff recurrence after radical cystectomy: an under - studied site of bladder cancer relapse

ABSTRACT Introduction: Vaginal cuff recurrence of tumor following radical cystectomy is a rare site of disease recurrence, however it has never been specifically studied. The aim of the study is to evaluate incidence, risk factors, and long-term oncologic outcomes of vaginal cuff recur- rence in a cohort of female patients treated with radical cystectomy for invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Materials and Methods: From 1985 to 2012, a prospectively maintained institutional blad- der cancer registry was queried for vaginal cuff recurrence post radical cystectomy. Over- all mortality and cancer-specific mortality were reported using the Kaplan-Meier method for patients with vaginal cuff recurrence, recurrence at another local or distant site, and those without evidence of recurrence. Comparisons were performed using the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards regression model was performed to assess predictors of vaginal cuff recurrence. Results: From 469 women treated with radical cystectomy for bladder cancer, 34 patients (7.3%) developed vaginal cuff recurrence, 130 patients (27.7%) had recurrence involving ei- ther a local or distant site, and 305 patients (65%) had no evidence of recurrence. The 5-year overall mortality-free survival rate was 32.4% for vaginal cuff recurrence, but 25.0% for other sites of recurrence. Cancer-specific mortality-free survival rate was 32.4% for vaginal cuff recurrence, and 30.3% for the other sites of recurrence. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis demonstrated that the presence of tumor in posterior location at radical cystectomy (Hazard Ratio [HR], 0.353 [95% CI, 0.159-0.783]) and anterior vaginec- tomy, compared to no vaginectomy (HR, 2.595 [95% CI, 1.077-6.249]) were independently associated with vaginal cuff recurrence. Conclusion: Anterior vaginectomy, despite our best attempts, is perhaps not sufficient to prevent vaginal cuff recurrence. Therefore, follow-up evaluation is essential, and further studies are necessary to address the optimal approach for initial management. Patient Summary: Although vaginal cuff recurrence is an unusual site of recurrence, careful evaluation is needed before cystectomy and during follow-up to identify patients at risk.

Health inequities and cancer survival in Manizales, Colombia: a population-based study / Inequidades en salud y supervivencia al cáncer en Manizales, Colombia: un estudio de base poblacional

Abstract Objective: To analyze differences in survival of breast, cervical, lung, prostate and stomach cancer by health insurance regime (HIR) and socioeconomic position (SEP) in an intermediate city in a middle-income country. Methods: All patients with breast, cervix uteri, lung, prostate and stomach cancer diagnosed between 2003 and 2007 and characterized by the Manizales population-based Cancer Registry (MCR) were included and followed up to a maximum of 5 years for identifying deaths. Survival probabilities estimated by HIR were defined according to the type of affiliation at the date of diagnosis, and by socioeconomic stratification of residence (SS) as indicator of SEP, stratifying for other prognostic factors using Kaplan-Meier methods. Cox proportional hazard models were fitted for multivariate analysis. Results: A total of 1,384 cases and 700 deaths were analyzed. Five-year observed survival was 71.0% (95% IC: 66.1-75.3) for breast, 51.4% (95% IC: 44.6-57.9) for cervix, 15.4% (95% IC: 10.7-20.8) for lung, 71.1% (95% IC: 65.3-76.1) for prostate and 23.8% (95% IC: 19.3-28.6) for stomach. Statistically significant differences in survival by HIR were observed for breast, lung, prostate, and stomach - with poorer survival for the subsidized and uninsured patients. Differences by SS were observed for lung and prostate. Differences in survival by HIR were independent of SS, and viceversa. Conclusions: Important inequities in cancer survival exist related to HIR and SEP. Possible explanations include underlying comorbidities, late stage at diagnosis, or barriers to timely and effective treatment.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar la supervivencia de pacientes con cáncer de mama, cuello uterino, pulmón, próstata y estómago según régimen de aseguramiento en salud (RAS) y posición socioeconómica (PSE) en una ciudad intermedia de un país de medianos ingresos. Métodos: Se incluyeron todos los pacientes con cáncer de mama, cuello uterino, pulmón, próstata y estómago diagnosticados entre 2003 y 2007 y caracterizados por el Registro Poblacional de Cáncer de Manizales, quienes fueron seguidos hasta un máximo de cinco años para identificar los fallecimientos. Las probabilidades de supervivencia estimada según RAS fueron definidas de acuerdo con el tipo de afiliación al momento del diagnóstico, y según el estrato socioeconómico de la residencia como indicador de PSE, estratificando por otros factores pronósticos y utilizando el método de Kaplan-Meier. Para el análisis multivariado se ajustaron modelos de riesgos proporcionales de Cox. Resultados: Se analizaron en total 1.384 casos y 700 muertes. La supervivencia observada a cinco años fue 71.0% (IC 95%: 66.1-75.3) para cáncer de mama, 51.4% (44.6-57.9) para cuello uterino, 15.4% (10.7-20.8) para pulmón, 71.1% (65.3-76.1) para próstata, y 23.8% (19.3-28.6) para estómago. Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la supervivencia según RAS para mama, pulmón, próstata y estómago, con supervivencia más pobre en los pacientes del régimen subsidiado y no asegurados. Se observaron diferencias por estrato socioeconómico en los cánceres de pulmón y próstata. Las diferencias por RAS fueron independientes del estrato socioeconómico y viceversa. Conclusiones: Existen importantes inequidades en la supervivencia de pacientes con cáncer relacionadas con el RAS y con la PSE. Las posibles explicaciones incluyen comorbilidades subyacentes, diagnóstico tardío y barreras para el acceso al tratamiento oportuno y efectivo.