[Survival in a cohort of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease according to GOLD 2017 classification]. / Supervivencia en una cohorte de pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica acorde a la clasificación GOLD 2017.

Until now, there is no information on the evolution of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) according to the new GOLD classification. The objective of this study was to determine, in a cohort of patients with COPD followed by twenty years, the impact of the change to the new classification: survival by groups and their association with other variables such as comorbidities. COPD patients (GOLD 2017 definition) were evaluated with follow-up since January 1996 to December 2016. Conventional statistics and Log-Rank survival analysis (Mantel-Cox) were used. We analyzed 354 patients: age 66.5 ± 8.4, 66.7% men. Former smokers 74.2% (56 pack-year). Charlson index 4.1 ± 1.7. At the end of study 219 (62%) were alive and 135 (38%) died. The follow-up was 28 months (12-54.7). In the univariate and multivariate analysis, male sex and age were associated with higher mortality. Considering only the spirometry, to a worse degree of airflow obstruction, corresponded a lower survival. With the ABCD 2017 classification, the worst survival was observed in group D. Only in this group, survival is independent of the level of deterioration of FEV1 (p = 0.005). The new ABCD classification is a mortality predictor, only if it is associated to pulmonary function.

[Home-based versus ambulatory hospital-based training in COPD]. / Enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica. Entrenamiento domiciliario versus ambulatorio hospitalario.

There is little experience on the effect of home training (rD) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Our aim was to compare the effect of rD on exercise tolerance, dyspnea and quality of life versus hospital outpatient training (rH). Two random groups of 25 patients were evaluated. Both trained during 8 weeks (24 sessions); undergoing various tests before and after, such as spirometry, questionnaires on dyspnea (MRC, Mahler and Borg) and on quality of life (SF-36 and St.George's), submaximal (6 minutes' walk, resistance-shuttle and cycle-ergometer endurance time limit, (Tlim), and - maximal exercise tests (shuttle -ST- and cardiopulmonary test). The rH group performed aerobic and strength for lower limbs (MI) and upper (MS) exercises. The rD group performed walks at 70% of the speed reached in ST and strength exercises for MI and MS. The basal condition was similar in both groups. The Tlim increased, 125% (p = 0.0001) for rH group and 63% (p = 0.0011) for rD, showing no significant differences. They also improved distance in shuttle resistance (77%, p = 0.0421 in rH and 79 %, p = 0.0197 in rD group) and in 6 minutes' test (12% in rD, p = 0.0135). St George scoring was reduced only in the rH group (p = 0.0034); 32% abandoned in rD vs. 20% in rH (p = 0.4521). Effectiveness in rD training was equal to rH for COPD patients, although rD were more likely to abandon the program.

Rate of severe exacerbations, healthcare resource utilisation and clinical outcomes in patients with COPD in low-income and middle-income countries: results from the EXACOS International Study.

INTRODUCTION: The EXAcerbations of Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and their OutcomeS (EXACOS) International Study aimed to quantify the rate of severe exacerbations and examine healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU) and clinical outcomes in patients with COPD from low-income and middle-income countries. METHODS: EXACOS International was an observational, cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection from medical records for a period of up to 5 years. Data were collected from 12 countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Mexico, Panama, Russia and Taiwan. The study population comprised patients ≥40 years of age with COPD. Outcomes/variables included the prevalence of severe exacerbations, the annual rate of severe exacerbations and time between severe exacerbations; change in lung function over time (measured by the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)); peripheral blood eosinophil counts (BECs) and the prevalence of comorbidities; treatment patterns; and HCRU. RESULTS: In total, 1702 patients were included in the study. The study population had a mean age of 69.7 years, with 69.4% males, and a mean body mass index of 26.4 kg/m2. The mean annual prevalence of severe exacerbations was 20.1%, and 48.4% of patients experienced ≥1 severe exacerbation during the 5-year study period. As the number of severe exacerbations increased, the interval between successive exacerbations decreased. A statistically significant decrease in mean (SD) FEV1 from baseline to post-baseline was observed in patients with ≥1 severe exacerbation (1.23 (0.51) to 1.13 (0.52) L; p=0.0000). Mean BEC was 0.198 x109 cells/L, with 64.7% of patients having a BEC ≥0.1 x109 cells/L and 21.3% having a BEC ≥0.3 x109 cells/L. The most common comorbidity was hypertension (58.3%). An increasing number of severe exacerbations per year was associated with greater HCRU. DISCUSSION: The findings presented here indicate that effective treatment strategies to prevent severe exacerbations in patients with COPD remain a significant unmet need in low-income and middle-income countries.

[Ventilatory response to upper limb exercise alter training in COPD]. / Respuesta ventilatoria al ejercicio post-entrenamiento de miembros superiores en la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica.

There are scarce studies evaluating the modification of ventilatory response to upper limb exercise (ULE) post-training in COPD patients. A prospective, randomized, controlled study was performed comparing two groups: training lower limbs (LL), vs. LL plus upper limb training (UL), in relation to their pre and post-training ventilatory response to ULE. A total of 43 COPD patients were included; 84% male, 6 (14%) GOLD moderate stage (II), 15 (35%) severe stage (III), and 22 (51%) very severe (IV); 28 patients completed the study. After ULE, in UL group (N = 14) a training increased isotime VT (p < 0.0001) was observed, as well as an increase in the inspiratory capacity isotime percentage (IC, 8.8%, p = 0.001), in the Ti isotime (29.3%, p = 0.022) and in the Ti/Tot isotime (37.4%, p = 0.0004). Also, Te isotime was reduced (26%, p = 0.009) and IC isotime was increased (p = 0.01) after ULE. In LL group (N = 14), training increased VT/Ti isotime (66.86%, p = 0.0005) after ULE. Also, after ULE a decrease in Ti isotime (27.9%, p = 0.015) and in Ti/Tot isotime (22.74%, p = 0.00016) were observed. A moderate correlation was observed between Δ respiratory rate and ΔIC after ULE, only for post-training in UL group (r = -0.53 , p < 0.001). Comparing both groups in relation to their responses to ULE, only in the UL group was a reduction observed in Te isotime (p = 0.049) and VT/Ti (p = 0.0015), higher Ti isotime (p = 0.0019), Ti/tot isotime (p = 0.000076) and IC isotime (% predictive, p = 0.01). UL training modified ventilatory response to ULE and it also reduced air trapping in COPD patients.

[Clinical, functional and tomographic respiratory sequels of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 at one year of diagnosis: SECUELAR-19 TRIAL]. / Secuelas respiratorias clínicas, funcionales y tomográficas de pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 al año del diagnóstico: ESTUDIO SECUELAR-19.

INTRODUCTION: There is scarce information on longterm evolution of hospitalized patients with moderate (MP) and severe (SP) COVID-19 pneumonia. OBJECTIVE: to determine clinical, respiratory function, and tomographic (HRCT) impact after being discharged 12 months after diagnosis. METHODS: Analysis according to MP and SP, desaturator patients (DP) in 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and HRCT fibrotic-like pattern (FLP). Results compared at 3 and 12 months of follow-up. RESULTS: 194 patients enrolled and one year later 103 (53%) were evaluated: gender male (62.4%), age 57.7 ± 10.9 years, comorbidities (arterial hypertension 38.8%, diabetes 29.6%, and respiratory diseases-RD-18.4%). Variables compared 3 months to 12 months (mean/SD): FVC: 84%( 19) to 88%( 19) (p= 0.01). A 27% of patients had FVC<80% at one year. In 6MWT:426 (108) to 447 (92) (p = <0.01). 12.8% are DP in one year. SP had a greater FLP than MP (40% vs. 27.9%, p = 0.021). The FLP group was related to FVC < 80% (p = 0.004) in all patients but only in SP (p < 0.001). After one year, in multivariate analysis, FVC < 80% was associated with RD (OR 4.32, 1.15-16.25), diabetes (OR 2.96, 1.02-8.57) and FLP (OR 3.51, 1.25-9.88). DP were associated with RD (OR 12.2, 2.41-61.85). DISCUSSION: Improvement was observed in all variables when comparing 3 to 12 months. However, after one year, functional and tomographic alterations persist in less than 50% of patients. DP subgroup was related to RD. Protocolled follow-up of hospitalized patients is important, especially in SP, DP, and FLP groups.

Introducción: Hay información escasa sobre evolución a largo plazo de pacientes hospitalizados por neumonía COVID-19 moderada (NM) y grave (NG). El objetivo del estudio fue determinar impacto clínico, funcional respiratorio y tomográfico (TACAR) luego del alta a 12 meses del diagnóstico. Métodos: análisis según grupos NM y NG, desaturadores (PD) en prueba de caminata 6 min (PC6M) y patrón tomográfico símil fibrótico (SF). Comparamos resultados a 3 y 12 meses de seguimiento. Resultados: 194 pacientes enrolados, evaluados al año: 103 (53% ): masculinos (62.4%), edad 57.7 ± 10.9 años, comorbilidades (hipertensión arterial 38.8%, diabetes 29.6%, antecedentes respiratorios-AR-18.4%). Comparamos variables a los 3 y 12 meses (media/DE): CVF 84%(19) a 88(19) (p = 0.01); 27% tuvo CVF<80% al año. En PC6M: 426 metros (108) a 447(92) (p = < 0.01). El 12.8% fue PD al año. NG tuvo mayor SF (40% vs. 27.9% p = 0.021). SF se relacionó con CVF <80% (p = 0.004) en toda la cohorte, y NG (p < 0.001). Al año en análisis multivariado se asoció a CVF <80%, AR (OR 4.32, 1.15-16.25), diabetes (OR 2.96, 1.02-8.57) y patrón SF (OR 3.51, 1.25-9.88). PD se asoció a AR (OR 12.2, 2.41-61.85). Discusión: Se observó mejoría en todas las variables al año. Pero al año persisten alteraciones funcionales y tomográficas en <50% de los pacientes. El subgrupo de PD se relacionó a AR. Es importante el seguimiento protocolizado de los pacientes hospitalizados, especialmente los grupos NG, PD y SF.

Clinical Concepts for Triple Therapy Use in Patients with COPD: A Delphi Consensus.

Purpose: Role of triple therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management is supported by growing evidence, but consensus is lacking on various aspects. We conducted a Delphi survey in respiratory experts on the effects of triple therapy on exacerbation reduction, early optimization, pneumonia risk, and mortality benefits in COPD management. Methods: The study comprised 2-round online surveys and a participant meeting with 21 respiratory experts from 10 countries. The 31-statement questionnaire was prepared using Decipher software after literature review. Responses were recorded using Likert scale ranging from 1 (disagreement) to 9 (agreement) with a consensus threshold of 75%. Results: All experts participated in both surveys and 14/21 attended participant meeting. Consensus was reached on 13/31 questions in first survey and 4/14 in second survey on: mortality benefits of triple therapy; comparable pneumonia risk between single inhaler triple therapy (SITT) and multiple inhaler triple therapy (81%); preference of SITT for patients with high eosinophil count (95%); exacerbation risk reduction and healthcare cost benefits with early initiation of SITT post exacerbation-related hospitalization (<30 days) (86%). No consensus was reached on first line SITT use after first exacerbation resulting in COPD diagnosis (62%). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that there is consensus among experts regarding many of the key concepts about appropriate clinical use and benefits of triple therapy in COPD. More evidence is required for evaluating the benefits of early optimisation of triple therapy.

[Guidelines for COPD prevention, diagnosis and treatment in Argentina]. / Recomendaciones para la prevención, diagnóstico y tratamiento de la EPOC en la Argentina.

Since morbidity, mortality and socioeconomic costs from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are widely increasing, a group of respiratory medicine specialists was summoned by the AAMR to update basic knowledge on COPD and to issue recommendations for its prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The authors review the definition of COPD together with current knowledge on pathophysiology. Clinical presentation, functional evaluation and imaging are summarized. Early diagnosis through pulmonary function tests -mainly spirometry- and the role of smoking cessation are stressed. Smoking cessation strategies are described as well as pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. Long acting bronchodilators are considered the first pharmacological option for treatment due to its effectiveness and patient compliance. Inhaled corticosteroids are indicated in combination with long-acting bronchodilators in patients who present persistent airway obstruction associated with frequent exacerbations since they reduce their number although further studies are needed to confirm their cost/benefit. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended in all patients. In the non-pharmacological section, surgery for emphysema is suggested in very specific cases. Respiratory rehabilitation is a useful tool for patients with daily activities limitation. Long-term oxygen therapy at home improves survival in patients with severe chronic hypoxemia. Non-invasive home ventilation in chronic patients has limited indications in specific subgroups. Acute exacerbations should be aggressively treated with bronchodilators, oxygen, antibiotics, corticosteroids and eventually mechanical ventilation, as invasive as not invasive respiratory support. The importance of public education as well as of individual patients and their families is deemed essential in the prevention and treatment of the disease.

[Coinfection of COVID-19 and extrapulmonary tuberculosis]. / Coinfección de COVID-19 y tuberculosis extrapulmonar.

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic continues causing significant global morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 is an acute respiratory infection that can affect other organs. Tuberculosis (TB) is also an endemic infection that typically occurs with pulmonary involvement and very infrequently, with extra-pulmonary involvement. There is little information on extrapulmonary TB and COVID-19 coinfection. The objective of this communication was to present information about this association in a public hospital in the city of Buenos Aires. Between March 2020 and April 2021, our Hospital diagnosed 10 809 cases of COVID-19, 106 of TB and 20 of TB-COVID-19 coinfection (incidence 185 cases of TB/100 000 cases of COVID-19), exceeding more than six times the average frequency of TB/100 000 inhabitants of the country (31/100 000). Of these 20 cases diagnosed with COVID-19 and TB, five presented extrapulmonary involvement due to TB (25%). The median age was 30 years (CI25-75, 28-31), three (60%) of them were female. The most frequently associated infection was due to human immunodeficiency virus, (n = 3), underweight (n = 2), COPD (n = 1) and drug addiction (n = 1). Three presented exclusive extrapulmonary involvement of the central nervous system, two pulmonary and pericardial. Four patients (80%) had a favorable evolution.

La pandemia por el coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 continúa causando una significativa morbi-mortalidad global. COVID-19 es una infección respiratoria aguda que puede afectar otros órganos. También la tuberculosis (TB) es una infección endémica que cursa típicamente con compromiso pulmonar y, en menor incidencia, extra-pulmonar. Hay escasa información sobre la coinfección de COVID-19 con TB extrapulmonar. El objetivo de esta comunicación fue presentar información sobre esa asociación en un hospital público de la ciudad de Buenos Aires. Entre marzo 2020 y abril 2021 en nuestro Hospital se diagnosticaron 10 809 casos de COVID-19, 106 de TB y 20 de coinfección de ambas (incidencia 185 casos de TB/100 000 casos de COVID-19), superando más de seis veces su frecuencia media de TB/100 000 habitantes del país (31/100 000). De 20 casos diagnosticados de COVID-19 y TB, cinco presentaron compromiso extrapulmonar por TB (25%). La mediana de edad fue de 30 años (IC25-75, 28-31), tres (60%) eran de sexo femenino. La enfermedad asociada más frecuentemente vinculada fue la infección por virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en tres personas (n = 3), bajo peso (n = 2), EPOC (n = 1) y adicción a drogas (n = 1). Tres presentaron compromiso extrapulmonar exclusivo del sistema nervioso central, dos pulmonar y pericárdico. Cuatro pacientes (80%) tuvo evolución favorable.

[Argentine cross-cultural adaptation of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: functional rating scale-revised]. / Escala revisada de valoración funcional de esclerosis lateral amiotrófica: adaptación transcultural.

INTRODUCTION: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised is a basic tool for the evaluation of people with this disease. In our country, versions are used without the necessary methodological process to adapt them culturally and to be able to certify the plausibility of the data collected. It was our goal to generate an appropriate version adapted to Argentine Spanish. METHODS: Cross-cultural adaptation of the scale was carried out, producing its Argentine version. Said production was carried out according to internationally accepted methodological procedures: sequential process of translation / synthesis / back-translation and consolidation of the version obtained by a multidisciplinary committee that solved of disagreements under Delphi methodology. The version obtained was tested on ALS people to determine of the existing syntactic - pragmatic level of difficulty, after which the final version was constituted. Difficulty level analysis was performed according to indicators: mode, median, qualitative variation index, variation ratio, accumulated frequency of positive evaluations, identification / modification of observed items (determining criterion: concordance criterion = 80%). RESULTS: After 3 rounds of consultation, the version agreed upon by the committee was obtained, obtaining agreement levels of 83.33%-100%. Its testing involved 21 functional alphabets, natives/residents, 67% men, mean age 51 years old, mean evolution 1.4 years. The general indicators supported the understanding of the version and the absence of conflicting items. DISCUSSION: The version obtained demonstrated its conceptual content validity regarding the English version, presenting not semantic nor pragmatic conflicts affecting their use in an Argentine population of ALS patients.

Introducción: La Escala Revisada de Valoración Funcional de la Esclerosis Lateral Amiotrófica es una herramienta básica para la evaluación de personas con esta enfermedad. En nuestro país se utilizan versiones sin el proceso metodológico necesario para adaptarlas culturalmente y poder certificar lo verosímil de los datos recogidos. Fue nuestro objetivo generar una apropiada versión adaptada al español argentino. Métodos: Se realizó la adaptación transcultural de la escala produciendo su versión argentina, conforme procedimientos y medidas de verificación de calidad metodológica internacionalmente aceptadas: proceso secuencial de traducción/síntesis/retrotraducción; resolución de discrepancias y consolidación de la versión obtenida por comité multidisciplinario bajo metodología Delphi; puesta a prueba de dicha versión en una población de personas con esclerosis lateral amiotrófica analizando el nivel de dificultad sintáctico-pragmático; constitución de la versión final. El análisis del nivel de dificultad se constituyó en base a los siguientes indicadores: moda, mediana, índice variación cualitativa, razón de variación, frecuencia acumulada de apreciaciones positivas, identificación / modificación de ítems observados, tomando como base un criterio de concordancia = 80%. Resultados: Tras 3 rondas de consulta se obtuvo la versión consensuada por el comité, obteniéndose niveles de concordancia del 83,33%-100%. Su puesta a prueba involucró a 21 alfabetos funcionales, nativos/residentes, 67% hombres, media edad 51 años, media evolución 1,4 años. Ausencia de dificultad a nivel comprensión y la ausencia de ítems conflictivos. Discusión: La versión obtenida demostró su validez de contenido conceptual respecto de la original, sin presentar conflictos semánticos o pragmáticos que afecten su uso en nuestra población.

[Clinical, functional and tomographic respiratory sequels of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 at six month of diagnosis: SECUELAR-19 trial]. / Secuelas respiratorias clínicas, funcionales y tomográficas de pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 a seis meses del diagnóstico: estudio SECUELAR-19.

INTRODUCTION: There is scarce information about middle-term evolution of hospitalized patients who suffer from pneumonia caused by COVID-19. The objective of this study is to determine the clinical, respiratory, tomographic and functional impact on COVID-19 patients with moderate (MP) to severe (SP) pneumonia after six months of acute infection. METHODS: Analysis was carried out by MP and SP groups, desaturators during the 6-minute-walking test and the presence of fibrotic like pattern on HRCT. Outcomes at 3 and 6 months were compared. RESULTS: The analysis included 129 patients, between 57 ± 11 years old. Frequent comorbidities were: arterial hypertension 38.1%, diabetes 30.4%, respiratory 18.6%). Comparing 3 and 6 months, improvement in quality of life was observed in MP and SP. The DP walked less meters in the MWT, worsened life quality and more fibrotic like pattern. The fibrotic pattern was related to the fall of CVF < 80% on MP and SP (p = 0.048 and p = 0.007), and with DP (p = 0.002). On multivariated analysis, the fibrotic like pattern was associated to the reduction of CVF with OR = 4.44 (1.94-10.18, p <0.01) and desaturation OR = 5.01(1.63-15.42, p < 0.01). On this cohort it was observed more functional and tomographic compromise on the DP The fibrotic like pattern was related to worse functional evolution and oximetry. DISCUSSION: Follow-up after discharge of COVID-19 patients with SP, DP or fibrotic changes in HCRT is underlined.

Introducción: Hay información escasa sobre la evolución de los enfermos hospitalizados por neumonía por COVID-19 a mediano plazo. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar en pacientes con neumonía moderada (NM) o grave (NG) por COVID-19, el impacto clínico, funcional respiratorio y tomográfico a los 6 meses. Métodos: Se realizó análisis según grupos de NM y NG, desaturadores (PD) en la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos y presencia del patrón tomográfico de alta resolución (TACAR) símil fibrótico. Se compararon los resultados a los 3 y 6 meses. Resultados: Se incluyeron 129 pacientes, edad 57 ± 11 años, comorbilidades frecuentes (hipertensión arterial 38.1%, diabetes 30.4% y respiratorias 18.6%). Al comparar 3 y 6 meses se observó mejoría de la calidad de vida en NM y NG. Los PD presentaron menor metraje caminado, peor calidad de vida y mayor presencia de patrón símil fibrótico. Este patrón se relacionó con la caída de la FVC 80% en NM y NG (p = 0.048 y p = 0.007), y con PD (p = 0.002). En el análisis multivariado, el patrón símil fibrótico s e asoció a la reducción de la CVF con OR = 4.44 (1.94-10.18, p <0.01) y a la desaturación, OR = 5.01 (1.63-15.42, p <0.01). En esta cohorte se observó mayor compromiso funcional y tomográfico en los PD. El patrón símil fibrótico se relacionó con peor evolución funcional y oximétrica. Discusión: Es importante el seguimiento de los pacientes con NG, los PD y los que presentan patrón fibrótico al alta de neumonía por COVID-19.

[Training response in COPD. Differences between fatigue-limited and dyspnea-limited patients]. / Respuesta al entrenamiento en EPOC. Diferencia entre limitación por fatiga muscular y por disnea.

Our objective was to study the post-training response to exercise, comparing fatigue-limited (FL) vs. dyspnea-limited (DL) COPD patients. Moderate and severe COPD patients (GOLD definition) were included. They were classified as FL if Borg score of fatigue at maximal exercise testing was ≥ 2 points vs. dyspnea; and DL if it was the reverse. Also, each patient was evaluated with submaximal cycloergometry, 6 minutes walking test and quality of life score (SGRQ). All patients were trained 3 times/week, 90 min/session with aerobic and strength exercises by 8 weeks. A total of 14 patients in LF and 11 in LD group were evaluated with same tools. Means of age were 69 and 66 years respectively. They presented severe airway flow obstruction (FEV1: 49%). There was not any baseline difference between both groups, except body-mass index, which was lower in FL. Both groups significantly improved p exercise variables post-training in comparison with baseline and SGRQ, except maximal workload in DL. Comparing both groups, FL had the highest maximal workload (48.7 ± 9.2 vs. 40.04 ± 15.48 watts, p = 0.033), 6 minute walking test (505.42 ± 50.75 vs. 454.9 ± 64.3 meters, p = 0.048) and endurance time (14.57 ± 9.55 vs. 6.71 ± 4.18 min, p = 0.025), respectively. It can be concluded that FL patients had better response after training in maximal and submaximal exercise tests in comparison with DL. Perhaps, different training strategies would be performed to train different COPD phenotypes.

[Inhalotherapy: Recommendations for Argentina 2021]. / Inhaloterapia: Recomendaciones para Argentina 2021.

Last decades, a broad spectrum of inhaled devices (ID) had been developed to enhance efficacy and reduce adverse events. The correct use of IDs is a critical issue for controlling obstructive respiratory diseases. There is no recommendation on inhalation therapy in Argentina. This document aims to issue local recommendations about the prescription of IDs. Each device was reviewed regarding biophysical laws, indication, strength, limitations, correct technique of use, frequent mistakes, and device cleaning and maintenance. Nebulization should be restricted to drugs that are not available in other IDs (for example, for treatment of cystic fibrosis) or where other devices fail. Nebulization is not recommended during the SARS-CoV2 pandemic. A metered-dose inhaler must always be used with an aerochamber. Aerochambers reduce the incidence of adverse events and improve lung deposition. Metered-dose inhalers must be prescribed to patients who cannot generate a high inspiratory flow and dry powders to those who can generate an energetic inspiratory flow. We reviewed the use of different IDs in patients with cystic fibrosis and under mechanical ventilation. The individual choice of an ID will be based on several variables like clinical status, age, previous experience, patient preference, drug availability, and correct use of the device.

En las últimas décadas ha habido un importante desarrollo de dispositivos inhalados (DI) que permiten aumentar la eficacia de las drogas y disminuir los eventos adversos. Su correcto uso es de fundamental importancia para el control de las enfermedades respiratorias obstructivas. En la Argentina no existen recomendaciones locales sobre el uso de los DI. Se revisó la base biofísica, indicación, ventajas y limitaciones, técnica de correcto uso, errores frecuentes, mantenimiento y limpieza de cada DI. El uso de nebulizaciones ha quedado restringido a la administración de drogas que no están disponibles en otros DI (ejemplo: tratamiento de fibrosis quística), o ante la falla de los otros DI. No deben ser usados durante la pandemia de SARS-CoV2. Los inhaladores de dosis medida (aerosol) deben ser indicados siempre con aerocámaras (AC), las que reducen la incidencia de eventos adversos y aumentan el depósito de la droga en el pulmón. Son los dispositivos de elección junto a los inhaladores de polvo seco. Los aerosoles se deben usar en pacientes que no generan flujos inspiratorios altos. Los inhaladores de polvo seco deben recomendarse en aquellos que pueden realizar flujos inspiratorios enérgicos. Se revisaron los diferentes DI en fibrosis quística y en pacientes con asistencia respiratoria mecánica. La elección del DI dependerá de varios factores: situación clínica, edad, experiencia previa, preferencia del paciente, disponibilidad de la droga y entrenamiento alcanzado con el correcto uso.

[Shuttle test in severe COPD patients]. / Prueba de caminata de carga progresiva (shuttle test) en enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica grave.

The shuttle test (ST) is a maximal exercise field test with scarcely used in Argentina. Our objective was to compare different variables of exercise response to ST vs. other exercise tests such as six minute walking test (SMWT) and cardiopulmonary with maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) in severe COPD patients. A total of 21 stable severe COPD patients (GOLD III and IV stages) were evaluated with SMWT, ST and VO2max test. In all patients spirometry was performed with bronchodilator response, arterial gas and chronic respiratory questionnaire to evaluate quality of life. Cardiac frequency, oxygen saturation and dyspnea scale by Borg in response to exercise tests were evaluated. Paired T Student and Pearson tests were used, defining p < 0.05 as significant. COPD patients were 65.27 +/- 12.72 years old and had severe airflow obstruction (FEV1: 33.23 +/- 4.94%). The exercise response to SMWT was 297.85 +/- 173.24 meters; ST: 318.8 +/- 42.42 meters and VO2max test: 14.7 +/- 5.44 ml/kg/min. The correlation between SMWT and ST was: r: 0.52(p < 0.00085); between ST and VO2max (l/min): r: 0.78 (p < 0.00079), and ST and VO2max (ml/kg/min): r: 0.81 (p < 0.00065). Moderate correlation was observed in final heart rate (r: 0.41, p < 0.00091), maximal Borg dyspnea scale (r: 0.47, p < 0.00099) and high correlation with final oxygen saturation (r: 0.81, p < 0.00087) between ST and VO2max. There was no correlation between ST and FEV1 and ST and quality of life. OUR CONCLUSION: The ST is a maximal, simple and low cost test. It has high correlation with cardiopulmonary test with VO2max measurement. It is a useful tool in those laboratories for pulmonary evaluations without possible availability of expensive tests.

[Oxygen therapy during Argentine-based national and international flights]. / Oxigenoterapia en vuelos nacionales e internacionales en la Argentina.

There are no data about supplemental oxygen in flight in our country. The objective of our study was to evaluate arranging in-flight-oxygen required by a simulated traveler, system of administration and costs, and to compare the results between Argentine-based (A) and international (I) airlines. The questionnaire used was similar to that of Stoller et al12. Data collection consisted of telephone calls placed by one of the authors to all commercial air carriers listed in our two Buenos Aires City airports during July 2007. A structured interview with questions was addressed on issues that an oxygen-using air traveler would need to arrange in-flight oxygen. Of the 25 airlines, 6 were discarded because of lack of information (24%, three A -60%- and one I -16%-). All A allowed in-flight-oxygen vs. 80% of I (p<0.05), 100% of A and 94% of I required a medical certificate (p=NS); 71% of A and 100% of I required previous notification (p<0.05); 50% of A and 87% of I provided patient interphases of oxygen administration (p=NS). Free of charge oxygen could be provided by 100% of A and 50% of I, with airline charge between 70 to 300 dollars. In conclusion, we observed different policies, rules, availability, and a pronounced lack of standardization of airline information. The cost of oxygen was very different between airlines and it was superior on I. It will be necessary to carry out actions to facilitate patient access to oxygentherapy and to standardize medical information among airlines in our country.

[New argentine consensus of respiratory rehabilitation 2008]. / Nuevo Consenso Argentino de Rehabilitación Respiratoria ActualizaciOn 2008.

Respiratory rehabilitation (RR) is a multidisciplinary program of care for patients with chronic respiratory impairment, individually tailored, designed to optimize physical and social performance and patient autonomy. It is particularly indicated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with exercise intolerance. The objectives of respiratory rehabilitation are: reduction in symptoms and exercise intolerance, improvement of health-related quality of life, and reduction of health costs. A group of neumonologists, nutritionists and physical therapists performed a systematic review of the evidence in RR to update previous local guidelines. Inclusion and exclusion criteria, guidelines for initial evaluation and follow up and resources needed are defined. Training characteristics are recommended regarding frequency of the visits, intensity, progression and duration of the exercise training. Aerobic training was recommended for lower limb (1A), upper limb (1B). Strength training must be added (1B). Respiratory muscle training and other physiotherapy techniques were recommended only for specific patients (1C). In addition recommendations have been made for educational objectives of the program including smoking cessation, nutritional and psychological support. The positive impact of RR on reductions of health care costs and reductions on hospitalizations (Evidence A) and mortality (Evidence B) were analized. Respiratory rehabilitation is a key component in the modern treatment of COPD patients. This consensus statement was prepared based on the most recent scientific evidence and adjusted to the local environment with the aim of being implemented nationally.

Shuttle test o prueba de caminata de carga progresiva treinta años después: tan útil y tan poco usada / Shuttle Test, or Incremental Shuttle Walking Test Thirty Years Later: So Useful and Yet So Rarely Used

La medición objetiva de la discapacidad o dificultad de movilizarse a causa de enfermedades pulmonares crónicas, particularmente la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC), constituye una importante evaluación en el manejo de los pacientes con esta enfermedad.1-3 Sin embargo, las pruebas de cardiopulmonares de ejercicio no están difundidas en nuestro país por la onerosa aparatología necesaria, por eso las pruebas de campo de ejercicio constituyen una atractiva alternativa. Desde que Cooper en 1968 popularizó la primera prueba de campo de ejercicio (prueba de 12 minutos), mucho se ha investigado en el tema.4 Hoy en día, la prueba de campo que más se utiliza es la de caminata de 6 minutos que es una prueba submáxima.1-3 Su uso e indicación fue normatizada por la Asociación Estadounidense de Tórax (ATS) en 2002 y más recientemente en 2014 por varios documentos intersocietarios de la ATS y la Sociedad Europea Respiratoria (ERS).1-3, 5 Otras pruebas de ejercicio de campo máximas son la de escalera y el shuttle test o prueba de caminata de carga progresiva (PCCP).1-3 La PCCP fue desarrollada por Léger y Lambert en 1982 para evaluación de personas sanas y los mismos autores entre 1984 y 1988 la adaptaron para atletas, usando un circuito de 20 m.6, 7 La prueba se desarrollaba a través de doce escalones de intensidad progresiva corriendo.6, 7 Singh y cols. la adaptaron finalmente para pacientes con EPOC moderado a grave, hace treinta años, cuando estudiaron a 35 pacientes con dos tipos de protocolos: uno de diez niveles, y otro modificado de doce niveles de un minuto por nivel.8 La velocidad inicial es de 0,5 m/s, y se incrementa en 0,17 m/s hasta alcanzar un máximo en el último nivel de 2,37 m/s.8 Dos conos separados por 9 m, delimita el circuito con 0,5 m a cada extremo para girar. Resumidamente, una señal simple sonora audible al paciente indica que debe encontrarse en un extremo, y una triple a cada minuto cumplido, que se aumenta la velocidad de paso. En el primer minuto o nivel, el paciente completa tres veces el recorrido (3 × 10 m = 30 m), en el segundo nivel, cuatro (4 veces = 40 m), y así sucesivamente. Se considera como final de prueba que el paciente debe avisar cuando no puede mantener el ritmo de caminata por dos tramos consecutivos, que esté a una distancia mayor de 0,5 m del cono, y que no complete dos tramos consecutivos a más de un metro del cono.

Asma bronquial reagudizada y neumonitis por hipersensibilidad provocada por alergia a perros domésticos / Exacerbated Bronchial Asthma and Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Triggered by Allergy to Domestic Dogs

RESUMEN Se presenta un caso clínico interpretado al principio como asma alérgica al pelo de perro y, luego, documentado como neumonitis por hipersensibilidad no fibrótica vinculada al antecedente ambiental doméstico.

ABSTRACT We present a case initially interpreted as allergic asthma triggered by dog hair and later confirmed as non-fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) associated with domestic environmental conditions.

Recomendaciones en el manejo y tratamiento del asma en la Argentina (REMA). Consenso Delphi modificado RAND/UCLA de la Asociación Argentina de Alergia e Inmunología Clínica y Asociación Argentina de Medicina Respiratoria / Recommendations for the Management and Treatment of Asthma in Argentina (RE.M.A). A RAND/UCLA modified Delphi Consensus Argentinian Association of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and Argentinian Association of Respiratory Medicine

El asma es una enfermedad crónica de la vía aérea prevalente en nuestro país, con frecuente mal control. Algunos especialistas de la Asociación de Alergia e Inmunología Clínica y la Asociación Argentina de Medicina Respiratoria han realizado recomendaciones sobre el manejo y tratamiento del asma mediante la metodología de consenso RAND/UCLA Delphi modificada sobre la base de la evidencia científica (GRADE). Este documento provee recomendaciones basadas en la opinión de especialistas y fundamentada en evidencia científica seleccionada en cuanto a la importancia de mejorar la adherencia al tratamiento y seguimiento a través de diferentes estrategias. Así mismo, provee recomendaciones actualizadas en aspectos críticos del tratamiento del asma leve al grave. Se recomienda, para mejorar la adherencia, el uso de planes personalizados de manejo (1 °C), uso de herramientas a través de teléfonos móviles (1B) y educación (1 °C). Con respecto a la inmunoterapia sublingual solo debe ser indicada a pacientes con asociación con rinitis alérgica, asociada a ácaros y síntomas de asma a pesar del tratamiento adecuado con FEV1 > 70 % (1B). Se recomienda fuertemente en el asma leve (escalón 2 GINA) el uso de broncodilatadores de acción rápida asociados a corticoides inhalados a demanda (1A). En asma grave, se recomienda el uso de la triple terapia inhalada con anticolinérgicos de acción prolongada, beta 2 de acción prolongada y corticoides inhaladas (1B). El uso de biológicos en asma grave está fuertemente indicado en fenotipo T2 con dupilumab (1A), T2 alérgico con omalizumab (1A) y en el T2 eosinofílico con benralizumab, o mepolizumab, con sus características distintivas (1A).

Asthma is a common chronic airway disease in our country, although with high poor control. Some specialists of the Asociación de Alergia e Inmunología Clínica and Asociación Argentina de Medicina Respiratoria have made recommendations for management and treatment of asthma, using a RAND/UCLA modified Delphi consensus methodology, based on GRADE evidence. This document provides recommendations based on specialist opinions about different strategies to improve adherence. Besides, it provides recommendations about critical issues of mild to severe asthma treatment. It´s recommended to improve adherence, personalized control-based management plan (1 °C), mobile devices (1B) and education (1 °C). Sublingual immunotherapy must be prescribed only in patients with allergic rhinitis, mite associated, and persistent symptoms although appropriate treatment with FEV1 > 70 % (1B). Use of fast action bronchodilators associated with inhaled corticosteroids prn in mild asthma (GINA stage 2) has strong recommendation (1A). Use of triple inhaled therapy (long acting anticholinergics, long acting beta 2 agonists and inhaled corticosteroids) is recommended in severe asthma (1B). Biologics has strong recommendations severe asthma: in phenotype T2 with dupilumab (1A), in phenotype allergic T2 with omalizumab (1A) and phenotype eosinophilic T2 with benralizumab or mepolizumab with distinctive characteristic (1A).