Diagnostic accuracy of pigmented labial macules by in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy and correlation among techniques.

BACKGROUND: Pigmented labial macules (PLMs) are clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathologic challenges. OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate the utility of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in PLMs and to establish a correlation between dermoscopy, RCM, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. METHODS: Prospective study of PLMs from 4 tertiary referral dermatology centers. The study included 51 biopsy specimen-proven PLMs. Dermoscopic, RCM images, and histopathologic preparations were evaluated for malignant criteria. Diagnostic accuracy of RCM for melanoma diagnosis, RCM Lip Score previously reported, and κ values between techniques were calculated. RESULTS: Included were 5 melanomas and 46 benign PLMs. Dermoscopically, melanomas exhibited more frequently ≥3 colors and ≥3 structures. With RCM, pagetoid spreading, epithelial disarray, continuous proliferation of atypical cells around papillae, nonhomogeneously distributed papillae, marked cellular atypia, and a higher number of dendritic cells per papillae were more frequent in melanomas. The RCM Lip Score was significantly higher in malignant lesions. Good κ values were observed in most of the evaluated features. A perfect sensitivity and specificity was obtained combining dermoscopy and RCM. LIMITATIONS: A low number of melanomas were obtained. CONCLUSIONS: RCM improves lip melanoma diagnosis, and the RCM Lip Score represents a useful tool for the evaluation of a PLM.

Pre-surgical evaluation challenges and long-term outcome in children operated on for Low Grade Epilepsy Associated brain Tumors.

OBJETIVE: Analyze pre-surgical evaluation modalities, surgical failures, long-term results of surgery and neurocognitive outcome in children with Low-grade Epilepsy Associated brain Tumors (LEAT). METHODS: Retrospective observational study of 37 children who underwent epilepsy surgery, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. At time of surgery, pharmaco-sensitivity (Group 1; n = 8) and drug-resistance (Group 2; n = 29), were considered. RESULTS: Age range of seizure onset was 5 months-14 years (mean 5.73years) and age at surgery was 2.2-18.7years (mean 10.7years). Gangliogliomas (35.1%) or DNTs (29.7%), combined or not to a focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), were the most frequent. Extended lesionectomy 16 children (43.2%) were the most frequently used surgical approach in both groups. At one year of follow-up, 36 children (97.2%) were classified as Engel I. Within the age-range studied, duration of epilepsy and time to surgery appeared to have no impact on clinical and neurocognitive outcome in both groups. It is noteworthy, however, that antiseizure medications (ASMs) were withdrawn in 100% of the pharmacosensitive group vs 34.5% of the drug-resistant group (p = 0.002). In children with a pharmaco-sensitive epilepsy, neurocognitive evaluation showed significant improvement in the verbal comprehension index (p = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS: Epilepsy-surgery is a safe therapeutic option for LEATs including for children with seizures controlled by ASMs. Presence of associated lesions is not rare. Comprehensive pre-surgical evaluation increases the chances for control of the seizures, the early discontinuation of medications and favours neurocognitive development.

Prognostic indicators and outcomes of hospitalised COVID-19 patients with neurological disease: An individual patient data meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Neurological COVID-19 disease has been reported widely, but published studies often lack information on neurological outcomes and prognostic risk factors. We aimed to describe the spectrum of neurological disease in hospitalised COVID-19 patients; characterise clinical outcomes; and investigate factors associated with a poor outcome. METHODS: We conducted an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis of hospitalised patients with neurological COVID-19 disease, using standard case definitions. We invited authors of studies from the first pandemic wave, plus clinicians in the Global COVID-Neuro Network with unpublished data, to contribute. We analysed features associated with poor outcome (moderate to severe disability or death, 3 to 6 on the modified Rankin Scale) using multivariable models. RESULTS: We included 83 studies (31 unpublished) providing IPD for 1979 patients with COVID-19 and acute new-onset neurological disease. Encephalopathy (978 [49%] patients) and cerebrovascular events (506 [26%]) were the most common diagnoses. Respiratory and systemic symptoms preceded neurological features in 93% of patients; one third developed neurological disease after hospital admission. A poor outcome was more common in patients with cerebrovascular events (76% [95% CI 67-82]), than encephalopathy (54% [42-65]). Intensive care use was high (38% [35-41]) overall, and also greater in the cerebrovascular patients. In the cerebrovascular, but not encephalopathic patients, risk factors for poor outcome included breathlessness on admission and elevated D-dimer. Overall, 30-day mortality was 30% [27-32]. The hazard of death was comparatively lower for patients in the WHO European region. INTERPRETATION: Neurological COVID-19 disease poses a considerable burden in terms of disease outcomes and use of hospital resources from prolonged intensive care and inpatient admission; preliminary data suggest these may differ according to WHO regions and country income levels. The different risk factors for encephalopathy and stroke suggest different disease mechanisms which may be amenable to intervention, especially in those who develop neurological symptoms after hospital admission.

Water-Food Nexus Assessment in Agriculture: A Systematic Review.

The Water-Food Nexus (WF) has been proposed to reach equitable, balanced, and sustainable access to water and food resources in the face of the growing population demand. Therefore, developing models to assess them has become more relevant. This work systematically reviews the literature on the tools used to evaluate water and food resources between 2002 and 2020. Furthermore, it reports a critical analysis of the software used to assess the WF Nexus quantitatively. The models analyzed were Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Common Agricultural Policy Regional Impact (CAPRI), Global Food and Water System (GFWS), Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), Water Evaluation And Planning system (WEAP), and Soil Water Atmosphere Plant (SWAP). We deduced that the following are necessary in evaluating the WF Nexus: (1) the capacity to generate future scenarios, (2) a global application, and (3) the application in case studies. The present paper is the first review to provide an overview of the software applied to evaluate WF Nexus, including the advantages and disadvantages of the tools found. They can help build sustainability criteria when designing policies that reduce water and food security risks and promote efficient water and food use.

Exploring treatment of medial tibial stress syndrome via posture and the MyoKinesthetic system.

INTRODUCTION: A standard treatment protocol for medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) has not been identified. Clinical practice focuses on local evaluation and treatment neglecting a global approach. The MyoKinesthetic™ (MYK) System includes a full-body postural assessment to identify compensatory patterns that may lead to MTSS. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of the MYK System in treating patients diagnosed with MTSS. METHOD: A multi-site exploratory study was used to assess the effects of the MYK System on perceived pain and disability in patients diagnosed with MTSS. Eighteen physically active patients (6 female, 12 male), ages 18-25 years (19.89 ±â€¯1.32) were treated with the MYK System. RESULTS: Paired T-tests were utilized to assess change. The change in patient reported pain was statistically significant (t(17) = 10.48, p < .001, Cohen's d = 2.48) and represented an average decrease of 96% in patient reported pain. The change in disablement was statistically significant (t(17) = 7.39, p < .001, Cohen's d = 1.74) and represented an average decrease of 88.2% in patient reported disablement. DISCUSSION: Participants treated with the MYK System experienced significant improvements and appear to surpass traditional interventions without the need of rest. CONCLUSION: Implementation of the MYK System to treat MTSS led to significant decreases in patient reported pain and dysfunction. A full-scale clinical investigation of the MYK System is warranted to determine its effects compared to traditional treatment options.

Vigilancia de la resistencia a los antimicrobianos en cepas de Neisseria gonorrhoeae aisladas en Paraguay. Año 2021

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N. gonorrhoeae) es el agente causal de la gonorrea, infección de transmisión sexual (ITS) que corresponde a la segunda causa más frecuente de ITS a nivel mundial, provocando una alta morbilidad y costo en atención de salud. En las últimas décadas han aumentado los reportes a nivel mundial de cepas resistentes a penicilina, sulfonamidas, tetraciclina, macrólidos y fluoroquinolonas, y más recientemente a azitromicina y cefalosporinas de espectro extendido como ceftriaxona y cefixima. El objetivo principal de este estudio fue determinar la sensibilidad a los antimicrobianos en cepas de N. gonorrhoeae que fueron enviadas al Laboratorio Central de Salud Pública (LCSP), por los centros colaboradores de la Red de Vigilancia Laboratorial de la Resistencia a los Antimicrobianos (RAM). Para ello, se realizó un estudio prospectivo de corte transversal de enero a diciembre de 2021. Se caracterizaron 128 cepas como N. gonorrhoeae a las cuales se le realizaron pruebas de susceptibilidad obteniéndose 48% de resistencia y 52% de sensibilidad intermedia a penicilina. El 70% presentó resistencia a ciprofloxacina y el 19% a tetraciclina. Se obtuvo 100% de sensibilidad a ceftriaxona y cefixima. El fenotipo de resistencia de mayor prevalencia fue QRNG, asociado con resistencia a ciprofloxacina, seguido del fenotipo PPNG-QRNG, asociado con resistencia a penicilina y ciprofloxacina. Ante estos hallazgos y frente a la emergencia mundial de la resistencia a los antimicrobianos, especialmente de cefalosporinas de espectro extendido, se recomienda que los laboratorios de bacteriología fortalezcan la vigilancia para apoyar la detección de casos y proporcionar el tratamiento adecuado.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N. gonorrhoeae) is the causal agent of gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is the second most common cause of STIs worldwide, causing high morbidity and cost in health care. In recent decades, reports of strains resistant to penicillin, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides, tetracycline, macrolides, and more recently to azithromycin and extended-spectrum cephalosporins such as ceftriaxone and cefixime have increased worldwide. The main objective of this study was to determine the sensitivity to antimicrobials in N. gonorrhoeae strains that were sent to the Central Laboratory of Public Health (LCSP), by the collaborating centers of the Antimicrobial Resistance Laboratory Surveillance Network (RAM). For this, a prospective cross-sectional study was carried out from January to December, 2021. One hundred eighty strains were characterized as N. gonorrhoeae, which were subjected to sensitivity tests, obtaining 48% resistance and 52% intermediate sensitivity to penicillin while 70% presented resistance to ciprofloxacin and 19% to tetracycline. Also, 100% sensitivity to ceftriaxone and cefixime was obtained. The most prevalent resistance phenotype was QRNG, associated with resistance to ciprofloxacin, followed by the PPNG-QRNG phenotype, associated with resistance to penicillin and ciprofloxacin. Given these findings and the global emergence of antimicrobial resistance, especially extended-spectrum cephalosporins, it is recommended that bacteriology laboratories fortify surveillance to support case detection and provide appropriate treatment.

Histopathologic and Immunohistochemical Correlates of Confocal Descriptors in Pigmented Facial Macules on Photodamaged Skin.

Importance: Pigmented facial macules on photodamaged skin are a clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathologic challenge. Objectives: To clinically and dermoscopically characterize, by means of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), ambiguous pigmented facial macules and establish a correlation between RCM, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical findings. Design, Setting, and Participants: A prospective study of ambiguous pigmented facial macules on photodamaged skin was conducted in a tertiary referral center for dermatology between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2015. Sixty-one patients with 63 ambiguous pigmented facial macules and 12 control photodamaged facial areas were included in the study. Melanocyte density in 1-mm basal layers was determined in skin biopsy specimens from all lesions stained with hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical markers (melan-A, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, and SRY-related HMG-box gene 10). Dermoscopic, RCM images, and histopathologic preparations were systematically evaluated for the presence of lentigo maligna (LM) criteria. Confocal evaluation was blinded to clinical and dermoscopic diagnosis. Sensitivity and specificity of RCM for LM diagnosis and κ value to establish correlations between dermoscopy, RCM, and histopathology were performed. Main Outcomes and Measures: Sensitivity and specificity of RCM for LM diagnosis. Results: Of the 61 patients included in the study, 31 (51%) were women; mean (SD) age was 71.8 (13.1) years. Twenty-four of the 63 (38%) lesions were diagnosed as LM or LM melanoma (LMM) and 39 (62%) as benign pigmented lesions. Reflectance confocal microscopy enhanced the diagnosis of pigmented facial macules with 91.7% sensitivity and 86.8% specificity. Multivariate analysis showed 2 dermoscopic and 2 confocal features associated with LM or LMM: (1) asymmetric follicular pigmentation and targetlike structures, and (2) round, large pagetoid cells and follicular localization of atypical cells, respectively. Continuous proliferation of atypical melanocytes was found in 21 (88%) LM or LMM and in 3 (77%) benign lesions. Asymmetric pigmented follicular openings by dermoscopy correlated with follicular localization of pagetoid cells by RCM (κ = 0.499, P < .001). The presence of 3 or more atypical cells at the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) by RCM correlated with hyperplasia of melanocytes in hematoxylin-eosin sections (κ = 0.422, P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance: Reflectance confocal microscopy improves LM diagnosis in photodamaged skin with good histopathologic correlation although false-positive and false-negative cases exist. False-positives obtained with RCM in photodamaged skin are due to the presence of basal melanocyte hyperplasia and intraepidermal Langerhans cells. Histopathologic features of these lesions sometimes are not enough for a definite diagnosis and immunohistochemical studies may be required.

Quantitative analysis of the probability of introducing equine encephalosis virus (EEV) into The Netherlands.

Equine encephalosis is a midge-borne viral disease of equines caused by equine encephalosis virus (EEV, Orbivirus, Reoviridae), and closely related to African horse sickness virus (AHSV). EEV and AHSV share common vectors and show similar transmission patterns. Until now EEV has caused outbreaks in Africa and Israel. This study aimed to provide insight in the probability of an EEV outbreak in The Netherlands caused by infected vectors or hosts, the contribution of potential source areas (risk regions) to this probability, and the effectiveness of preventive measures (sanitary regimes). A stochastic risk model constructed for risk assessment of AHSV introduction was adapted to EEV. Source areas were categorized in risk regions (high, low, and very low risk) based on EEV history and the presence of competent vectors. Two possible EEV introduction pathways were considered: importation of infected equines and importation of infected vectors along with their vertebrate hosts. The probability of EEV introduction (PEEV) was calculated by combining the probability of EEV release by either pathway and the probability of EEV establishment. The median current annual probability of EEV introduction by an infected equine was estimated at 0.012 (90% uncertainty interval 0.002-0.020), and by an infected vector at 4.0 10(-5) (90% uncertainty interval 5.3 10(-6)-2.0 10(-4)). Equines from high risk regions contributed most to the probability of EEV introduction with 74% on the EEV introduction by equines, whereas low and very low risk regions contributed 18% and 8%, respectively. International movements of horses participating in equestrian events contributed most to the probability of EEV introduction by equines from high risk regions (86%), but also contributed substantially for low and very low risk regions with 47% and 56%. The probability of introducing EEV into The Netherlands is much higher than the probability of introducing AHSV with equines from high risk countries contributing most. The introduction by an infected equine is the most likely pathway. Control measures before exportation of equines showed to have a strong mitigating effect on the probability of EEV introduction. The risk of EEV outbreaks should be taken into account when altering these import regulations.

Implementation and Evaluation of a Pilot Training to Improve Transgender Competency Among Medical Staff in an Urban Clinic.

Purpose: Transgender individuals (TGI), who identify their gender as different from their sex assigned at birth, continue facing widespread discrimination and mistreatment within the healthcare system. Providers often lack expertise in adequate transgender (TG) care due to limited specialized training. In response to these inadequacies, and to increase evidence-based interventions effecting TG-affirmative healthcare, we implemented and evaluated a structural-level intervention in the form of a comprehensive Provider Training Program (PTP) in TG health within a New York City-based outpatient clinic serving primarily individuals of color and of low socioeconomic status. This pilot intervention aimed to increase medical staff knowledge of TG health and needs, and to support positive attitudes toward TGI. Methods: Three 2-h training sessions were delivered to 35 clinic staff across 4 months by two of the authors experienced in TG competency training; the training sessions included TG-related identity and barriers to healthcare issues, TG-specialized care, and creating TG-affirmative environments, medical forms, and billing procedures. We evaluated changes through pre-post intervention surveys by trainees. Results: Compared to pre-training scores, post-training scores indicated significant (1) decreases in negative attitudes toward TGI and increases in TG-related clinical skills, (2) increases in staff's awareness of transphobic practices, and (3) increases in self-reported readiness to serve TGI. The clinic increased its representation of general LGBT-related images in the waiting areas, and the staff provided highly positive training evaluations. Conclusion: This PTP in TG health shows promise in leading to changes in provider attitudes and competence, as well as clinic systems, especially with its incorporation in continuing education endeavors, which can, in turn, contribute to health disparities reductions among TG groups.

Caracterización molecular de carbapenemasas en bacilos gramnegativos circulantes en hospitales de Paraguay. Primer cuatrimestre 2021 / Molecular characterization of carbapenemases in Gram-negative bacilli circulating in hospitals of Paraguay. First quarter of 2021

La resistencia a los antimicrobianos (RAM), representa un grave problema por el uso indiscriminado de antimicrobianos de amplio espectro. En nuestro país, durante el primer cuatrimestre del año, se observó un aumento inusual en el número de aislamiento de gérmenes multirresistentes, sobre todo de bacilos gramnegativos, los cuales fueron remitidos al laboratorio de referencia con el objetivo de caracterizar los genes de resistencia a los carbapenemes. Estudio observacional y prospectivo de corte transversal en 456 aislamientos de bacilos gramnegativos provenientes de 11 centros colaboradores de la Red Nacional de Vigilancia de la RAM, remitidos al Laboratorio Central de Salud Pública entre enero y abril de 2021, para la detección molecular (reacción en cadena de la polimerasa múltiple) de los genes de resistencia enzimática bla OXA-51, bla OXA-23, bla OXA-24, bla OXA-48, bla OXA-58, bla NDM, bla KPC, bla IMP, bla VIM. Trescientos sesenta correspondieron a bacilos gramnegativos no fermentadores: 346 Acinetobacter baumannii y 14 Pseudomonas aeruginosa; 96 fueron miembros de Enterobacterales, siendo prevalente Klebsiella pneumoniae (81). Todos los aislamientos de Acinetobacter baumannii resultaron ser productores de carbapenemasas: OXA-23 (94%), NDM (4%), NMD+OXA-58 (2%); en Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 7 de los 14 aislamientos (50%) fueron portadores de metalobetalactamasa del genotipo NDM (100%). Los genotipos NDM (92%) y KPC (8%) fueron confirmados en Enterobacterales. La resistencia plasmídica a carbapenemes es endémica en nuestro país, siendo prevalentes los genotipos OXA-23 en Acinetobacter baumannii y NDM en Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Enterobacterales

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a serious problem due to the indiscriminate use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials. During the first quarter of the year, an unusual increase in the number of isolation multi-resistant germs, especially gram-negative bacilli was observed, specially of Gram-negative bacilli which were referred to the reference laboratory in order to characterize the carbapenems resistance genes. Observational and prospective cross-sectional study in 456 isolates of Gram-negative bacilli from 11 collaborating centers of the National AMR Surveillance Network, referred to the Central Public Health Laboratory (LCSP) between January and April 2021, for molecular detection (multiple polymerase chain reaction) targeting the enzymatic resistance genes: bla OXA-51, bla OXA-23, bla OXA-24, bla OXA-48, bla OXA-58, bla NDM, bla KPC, bla IMP, bla VIM. Of the 456 isolates studied, 360 corresponded to non-fermenting Gram-negative bacilli, of which 346 were confirmed as Acinetobacter baumannii and 14 Pseudomonas aeruginosa; 96 were Enterobacterales, being Klebsiella pneumoniae (81) the most prevalent. All isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii carried genes encoding carbapenemases, being the OXA-23 (94%) followed by NDM (4%) and NDM +OXA-58 (2%). In Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains, 7 of the 14 isolates (50%) were carriers of NDM metallobetalactamase (100%). No carbapenemase gene was detected in the remaining 7. In all Enterobacterales strains, the presence of carbapenemases of the NDM (92%) and KPC (8%) genotypes were confirmed. Plasmid resistance to carbapenems is endemic in our country, being the OXA-23 genotypes prevalent in Acinetobacter baumannii and NDM in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacterales

Primer reporte de Enterobacterales dobles productores de carbapenemasas en hospitales de Paraguay. Año 2021

RESUMEN Las carbapenemasas se encuentran ampliamente distribuidas en nuestro país, tanto en bacilos gramnegativos fermentadores como no fermentadores. Durante 2021, se ha reportado incremento de cepas con estas enzimas. Con el objetivo de evaluar la doble producción de carbapenemasas en Enterobacterales y comunicar su circulación, fue puesta a punto una PCR convencional múltiple. Estudio retrospectivo en 128 aislamientos provenientes de 20 centros colaboradores de la Red Nacional de Vigilancia de la RAM (Capital, Central e interior del país), remitidos al LCSP entre febrero y setiembre de 2021, para confirmación y genotipificación de carbapenemasas. Se realizaron pruebas fenotípicas y colorimétricas con sustratos específicos, y pruebas genotípicas (PCR convencional múltiple) para la detección simultánea de varios genes de resistencia (bla NDM, bla KPC, bla OXA-48-like, bla IMP y bla VIM). De los 128 aislamientos estudiados, 107 correspondieron a Klebsiella pneumoniae, 14 a Enterobacter cloacae complex, entre otros; aislados en mayor frecuencia de muestras de orina (30%), respiratorias (30%), sangre y catéter (24%). Los genes de resistencia a los carbapenemes detectados fueron: bla NDM (77,3%), bla KPC (17,2%); siendo confirmada la doble producción de carbapenemasas en 7 aislamientos (5,5%) provenientes de 4 centros diferentes de la capital de país y uno de Central; 6 de ellas (K. pneumoniae) con bla NDM+bla KPC y 1 (E. cloacae complex) con bla NDM+bla OXA-48-like; confirmando circulación de Enterobacterales dobles productores de carbapenemasas en el país (KPC+NDM y OXA+NDM); hallazgos que obligan a proveer de capacidades de detección, de manera a que se puedan tomar medidas oportunas y eficaces de contención y control.

ABSTRACT Carbapenemases are widely distributed in our country, both in fermenting and non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli. During 2021, an increase in strains with these enzymes has been reported. In order to evaluate the double production of carbapenemases in Enterobacterales and communicate their circulation, a multiple conventional PCR was set up. Retrospective study carried out in 128 isolates from 20 collaborating centers of the National AMR Surveillance Network (Capital, Central and interior of the country), sent to the LCSP between February and September 2021, for confirmation and genotyping of carbapenemases. Phenotypic and colorimetric tests were performed with specific substrates, as well as genotypic tests (multiple conventional PCR) for the simultaneous detection of several resistance genes (blaNDM, blaKPC, blaOXA-48-like, blaIMP and blaVIM). Of the 128 isolates studied, 107 corresponded to Klebsiella pneumoniae, 14 to Enterobacter cloacae complex, among others; isolated in higher frequency from urine (30%), respiratory (30%), blood and catheter (24%) samples. The genes for resistance to carbapenems detected were: blaNDM (77.3%), blaKPC (17.2%); the double production of carbapenemases was confirmed in 7 isolates (5.5%) from 4 different centers in the capital of the country and one in Central; 6 of them (K. pneumoniae) with blaNDM + blaKPC and 1 (E. cloacae complex) with blaNDM + blaOXA-48-like; confirming circulation of double Enterobacterales producers of carbapenemases in the country (KPC + NDM and OXA + NDM); findings that require the provision of detection capabilities, so that timely and effective containment and control measures can be taken.

Diagnosis of biliary strictures after liver transplantation: which is the best tool?

AIM: To evaluate the diagnostic value of different indirect methods like biochemical parameters, ultrasound (US) analysis, CT-scan and MRI/MRCP in comparison with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC), for diagnosis of biliary complications after liver transplantation. METHODS: In 75 patients after liver transplantation, who received ERC due to suspected biliary complications, the result of the cholangiography was compared to the results of indirect imaging methods performed prior to ERC. The cholangiography showed no biliary stenosis (NoST) in 25 patients, AST in 27 and ITBL in 23 patients. RESULTS: Biliary congestion as a result of AST was detected with a sensitivity of 68.4% in US analysis (specificity 91%), of 71% in MRI (specificity 25%) and of 40% in CT (specificity 57.1%). In ITBL, biliary congestion was detected with a sensitivity of 58.8% in the US, 88.9% in MRI and of 83.3% in CT. However, as anastomotic or ischemic stenoses were the underlying cause of biliary congestion, the sensitivity of detection was very low. In MRI detected the dominant stenosis at a correct localization in 22% and CT in 10%, while US failed completely. The biochemical parameters, showed no significant difference in bilirubin (median 5.7; 4,1; 2.5 mg/dL), alkaline phosphatase (median 360; 339; 527 U/L) or gamma glutamyl transferase (median 277; 220; 239 U/L) levels between NoST, AST and ITBL. CONCLUSION: Our data confirm that indirect imaging methods to date cannot replace direct cholangiography for diagnosis of post transplant biliary stenoses. However MRI may have the potential to complement or precede imaging by cholangiography. Optimized MRCP-processing might further improve the diagnostic impact of this method.

Cultura de segurança do paciente em unidades cirúrgicas de hospitais de ensino / Culture of patient safety in surgical units of teaching hospitals / Cultura de seguridad del paciente en unidades quirúrgicas de hospitales escuela

Objetivo: analisar a cultura de segurança em unidades cirúrgicas de três hospitais de ensino paranaenses. Método: survey, transversal, com coleta de dados realizada entre 2017 e 2018, em três hospitais com administração federal, estadual e privada. Utilizou-se o questionário Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture, que analisa 12 dimensões da cultura de segurança; aquelas com índices ≥75% foram consideradas fortalecidas. Resultados: a dimensão "trabalho em equipe dentro das unidades" foi identificada como fortalecida no hospital privado (77,8%); nos demais, nenhuma dimensão mostrou cultura fortalecida. Os profissionais do hospital privado externaram, significativamente, percepção menos negativa em seis dimensões de cultura. Comparados aos profissionais médicos, a Enfermagem apresentou percepção mais positiva, com diferença significativa para quatro dimensões. Conclusão: a administração privada estimula a cultura de segurança, quando comparada à pública. As dimensões frágeis são expressivas em todos os segmentos de trabalhadores, tornando-se desafio para promover cultura positiva em unidades cirúrgicas de hospitais de ensino. (AU)

Objective: to analyze the safety culture in surgical units of three teaching hospitals in Paraná. Method: a cross-sectional survey, with data collection, carried out between 2017 and 2018, in three hospitals with federal, state and private administration. We used the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire, which analyzes 12 dimensions of the safety culture; we considered those with rates ≥75% as strengthened. Results: the dimension "teamwork within the units" was identified as strengthened in the private hospital (77.8%); in the others, no dimension showed a strengthened culture. The professionals of the private hospital significantly expressed a less negative perception in six dimensions of culture. Compared to medical professionals, Nursing showed a more positive perception, with a significant difference for four dimensions. Conclusion: private administration encourages a culture of security when compared to public administration. The fragile dimensions are expressive in all segments of workers, making it a challenge to promote a positive culture in surgical units of teaching hospitals.(AU)

Objetivo: analizar la cultura de seguridad en unidades quirúrgicas de tres hospitales docentes del estado de Paraná. Método: encuesta transversal, con recogida de datos realizada entre 2017 y 2018, en tres hospitales de administración federal, estatal y privada. Se utilizó el cuestionario Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture que analiza 12 dimensiones de la cultura de seguridad; aquéllas con tasas ≥75% se consideraron fortalecidas. Resultados: se identificó la dimensión "trabajo en equipo dentro de las unidades" como fortalecida en el hospital privado (77.8%); en los demás, ninguna dimensión mostró una cultura fortalecida. Los profesionales del hospital privado expresaron significativamente una percepción menos negativa en seis dimensiones de la cultura. En comparación con los profesionales médicos, la enfermería mostró una percepción más positiva, con una diferencia significativa en cuatro dimensiones. Conclusión: la administración privada fomenta una cultura de seguridad, en comparación con la pública. Las dimensiones frágiles son expresivas en todos los segmentos de los trabajadores. Por ello, promover la cultura positiva en las unidades quirúrgicas de los hospitales escuela se ha vuelto un reto.(AU)

Effect of the administrative transition of hospital management on the safety culture in surgical units / Efecto de la transición administrativa de la gestión hospitalaria sobre la cultura de seguridad en unidades quirúrgicas / Efeito da transição administrativa da gestão hospitalar na cultura de segurança em unidades cirúrgicas

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the safety culture in surgical units of a teaching hospital in different periods of hospital management. Method: this is a descriptive and analytical study developed with health professionals working at a surgical center and at five surgical inpatient units in two different periods of hospital management in southern Brazil. The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire was answered by 73 professionals in period I (2014/2015) and by 158 professionals in period II (2017). The analysis was based on descriptive statistics and on inferential analysis and reliability analysis using Cronbach's alpha coefficient; the dimensions were considered strong when the percentage of positive answers was ≥75%. Results: the administrative transition had a positive influence on the "Staffing" and "Handoffs and transitions" dimensions and a negative influence on "Teamwork within units" (p<0.001), with no difference in the remaining nine dimensions. In both periods, no dimension was considered strong; there were no changes with regard to the notification of adverse events and to the overall safety assessment; and the overall reliability of the instrument was satisfactory (0.89). Conclusion: the administrative transition of hospital management had little impact on the dimensions of the organizational safety culture, and there are still challenges in the progressive development of this predictor of patient safety.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la cultura de seguridad en unidades quirúrgicas de un hospital escuela en diferentes períodos de la gestión hospitalaria. Método: estudio descriptivo y analítico desarrollado con profesionales de la salud que se desempeñan en un centro quirúrgico y en cinco unidades de internación quirúrgica en dos períodos distintos de gestión hospitalaria en el sur de Brasil. El cuestionario Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture fue respondido por 73 profesionales en el período I (2014/2015) y por 158 en el período II (2017). El análisis se realizó por medio de estadística descriptiva y análisis inferencial y de la confiabilidad a través del coeficiente alfa de Cronbach; las dimensiones se consideraron como puntos favorables cuando presentaron puntuaciones ≥75% de respuestas positivas. Resultados: la transición administrativa ejerció una influencia positiva sobre las dimensiones "Dotación de personal" y "Cambios de turno/transiciones" y una influencia negativa sobre "Trabajo en equipo dentro de las unidades" (p<0,001), sin diferencia alguna en las otras nueve dimensiones. En ambos períodos, ninguna dimensión fue considerada como un punto favorable; no se registraron cambios referentes a la notificación de eventos adversos ni en la evaluación global de la seguridad; y la confiabilidad general del instrumento fue satisfactoria (0,89). Conclusión: la transición administrativa de la gestión hospitalaria tuvo escaso efecto sobre las dimensiones de la cultura de seguridad organizacional, manteniéndose así los desafíos en la construcción progresiva de este predictor de la seguridad del paciente.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a cultura de segurança em unidades cirúrgicas de hospital de ensino em períodos distintos da gestão hospitalar. Método: descritivo e analítico desenvolvido com profissionais de saúde atuantes em um centro cirúrgico e em cinco unidades de internação cirúrgica em dois distintos períodos de gestão hospitalar no sul do Brasil. Responderam ao questionário Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture 73 profissionais no período I (2014/2015) e 158 no período II (2017). A análise se deu por estatística descritiva e análise inferencial e da confiabilidade pelo alfa de Cronbach; dimensões foram consideradas fortes quando apresentaram escores ≥75% de respostas positivas. Resultados: a transição administrativa influenciou positivamente nas dimensões "Adequação de profissionais" e "Passagem de plantão/transferências" e negativamente em "Trabalho em equipe dentro das unidades" (p<0,001), sem diferença nas demais nove dimensões. Em ambos os períodos nenhuma dimensão foi considerada forte; não ocorreram mudanças referentes à notificação de eventos adversos e na avaliação global de segurança; a confiabilidade geral do instrumento foi satisfatória (0,89). Conclusão: a transição administrativa da gestão hospitalar pouco impactou nas dimensões da cultura de segurança organizacional, mantendo-se os desafios na construção progressiva desse preditor de segurança do paciente.

Heartburn in primary care: problems below the surface.

Heartburn is a common physiological event often associated with an underlying occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Studies show that GERD is a highly prevalent and chronic condition that significantly impacts on the patient's quality of life (QoL) and, in the long term, increases the risk for developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, more commonly referred to as Barrett's esophagus. Data indicate that symptom severity is a poor predictor of either the presence of erosive mucosal lesions or the development of complications. Given that lifestyle modifications are often insufficient for long-term treatment of GERD, drugs that inhibit gastric acid production--such as the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)--are now the most effective strategy. Although generally well tolerated, the potential of PPIs for interactions with other drugs needs to be considered. This review discusses the symptoms and risk factors associated with GERD, possible links to Helicobacter pylori infection, and effective treatment strategies within a primary care setting.

Estadística de las fisuras labiopalatinas en la clínica de labio paladar fisurado, Fundación Metrofraternidad, noviembre 2017 a febrero 2019 / Statistics of cleft lip and palate in the clinic, Fundación Metrofraternidad, november 2017 to february 2019

Introducción: la fisura labiopalatina es la anomalía craneofacial más común del recién nacido. Se puede presentar solo la fisura labial, la hendidura palatina o una combinación de ambas. Además, puede estar asociada o no a una condición sindrómica. Es importante conocer la etiología, clasificación, epidemiología y características clínicas para brindar un tratamiento integral que mejore la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Los procedimientos quirúrgicos que tratan esta anomalía son la queiloplastia y la palatoplastia que permiten devolver las propiedades estéticas y funcionales del labio, nariz, alvéolo y paladar. Materiales y métodos: se realizó una recopilación de información; los datos estadísticos recolectados fueron: 56 pacientes atendidos en la clínica de labio y paladar fisurado de la Fundación Metrofraternidad desde noviembre de 2017 hasta febrero de 2019. En ellos se realizó 40 procedimientos quirúrgicos de labio y paladar. Todas las intervenciones quirúrgicas fueron efectuadas ­en el Hospital del Día del Hospital Metropolitano­ por un equipo multidisciplinario conformado por el Cirujano Plástico y el Cirujano Maxilofacial. Es la primera estadística que menciona los tratamientos quirúrgicos y el manejo de las fisuras labiopalatinas en el Hospital Metropolitano. Resultados: en un total de 56 pacientes, se realizó 40 procedimientos quirúrgicos: 21 queiloplastias (16 unilaterales, 5 bilaterales) y 19 palatoplastias. Conclusiones: la técnica más empleada en la cirugía de cierre de fisuras labiales unilaterales fue la de Tennison Randall; en las fisuras labiales bilaterales la única técnica utilizada fue la de Millard bilateral. La técnica más usada para cerrar las fisuras palatinas fue la de Veau Wardill Kilner. (AU)

Introduction: Cleft palate is the most common craniofacial anomaly in the newborn. Only the cleft lip, the cleft palate, or a combination of both may be present. In addition, it may or may not be associated with a syndromic condition. It is important to know the etiology, classification, epidemiology and clinical characteristics to provide a comprehensive treatment that improves the quality of life of patients. Surgical procedures that treat this anomaly are cheiloplasty and palatoplasty. These allow to return the aesthetic and functional properties to structures such as lip, nose, alveolus and palate. Materials and methods: The statistical data collected were: 56 patients attended in the laboratory clinic and physical palate of the Metrofraternidad Foundation from November 2017 - February 2019, of which, 40 surgical procedures of laboratory and palate have been performed. All the surgeries were performed in the Hospital of the day of the Metropolitan Hospital, by a multidisciplinary team consisting of the Plastic Surgeon and Maxillofacial Surgeon. It is the first study that describes the surgical treatments of the palatal lip roots in the Metropolitan Hospital. Results: In total of 56 patients, 40 surgical procedures were performed, 21 cheiloplasties, 19 palatoplasties. With 6 minor complications (hypertrophic scar on the lip). Conclusions: It was concluded that Tennison Randall was the technique most used in the surgery to close unilateral labial fissures. In bilateral labial fissures, the only technique used was bilateral Millard. Veau Wardill Kilner was the most used technique for closing palatal fissures. (AU)

Avaliação da cultura de segurança em unidades cirúrgicas de hospitais de ensino / Evaluation of safety culture in surgical units of teaching hospitals

Esta pesquisa avaliativa de abordagem quantitativa analisou a cultura de segurança do paciente em unidades cirúrgicas de três hospitais de ensino da região Sul do Brasil. A população foi composta por profissionais de saúde, entre médicos assistenciais e residentes, enfermeiros, técnicos e auxiliares de enfermagem lotados em unidades de internação cirúrgica e centro cirúrgico. A pesquisa foi realizada no período de maio de 2017 a março de 2018 com 381 participantes, sendo 158 do hospital federal, 121 do hospital privado e 102 do hospital estadual. A coleta dos dados foi realizada com a aplicação do instrumento Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture que mensura a percepção de profissionais sobre a segurança do paciente através de12 dimensões relacionadas ao hospital, à unidade de trabalho e às variáveis de resultado. Para a comparação entre os três hospitais utilizou-se o modelo de análise da variância (ANOVA) com um fator ou o teste não-paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis. Em relação às variáveis categóricas as comparações foram feitas usando-se o teste de Qui-quadrado; valores de p<0,05 indicaram significância estatística. A confiabilidade do instrumento foi testada por meio do teste Alfa de Cronbach. Os resultados apontam que o tipo de gestão hospitalar e a categoria profissional estiveram associadas à percepção sobre a segurança do paciente. A única dimensão fortalecida (>75%) identificada foi "Trabalho em equipe dentro das unidades", com 77% de respostas positivas no serviço de saúde privado (p<0,001). Respostas fortalecidas na dimensão "Expectativas sobre seu supervisor/chefe e ações promotoras de segurança" foram expressas positivamente pela enfermagem nos hospitais públicos, estadual e privado. As dimensões "Apoio da gestão para a segurança do paciente", "Percepção geral da segurança do paciente", "Retorno da informação e comunicação sobre o erro", "Adequação de profissionais", "Passagem de plantão/turnos e transferências" e "Respostas não punitivas ao erro" apresentaram-se fragilizadas (<50%) nos três hospitais. Conclui-se que a gestão assumida no serviço de saúde privado beneficia a cultura de segurança, quando comparada à gestão pública estadual e federal. A enfermagem percebe mais favoravelmente a segurança do paciente. Os profissionais médicos e de enfermagem das unidades cirúrgicas dos hospitais avaliados expressam cultura punitiva frente aos erros, reforçando a necessidade de solidificar estratégias para a mudança deste paradigma.

Abstract: This evaluative research of quantitative approach analyzed the culture of patient safety in surgical units of three teaching hospitals in the southern region of Brazil. The population was comprised of health professionals, among care physicians and residents, nurses, technicians and nursing assistants who were crammed into units of surgical hospitalization and surgical center. The survey was conducted from May 2017 to March 2018 with 381 participants, 158 of the federal hospital, 121 of the private hospital and 102 of the state hospital. The data collection was carried out with the application of the instrument Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture that measures the perception of professionals about patient safety through 12 dimensions related to the hospital, the unit of work and the outcome variables. For the comparison between the three hospitals the variance analysis model (ANOVA) with one factor or the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was used. In relation to the categorical variables the comparisons were made using the Chi-square test; values of p <0.05 indicated statistical significance. The reliability of the instrument was tested using the Cronbach Alpha test. The results indicate that the type of hospital management and the professional category were associated with the perception about patient safety. The only strengthened dimension (>75%) was "Teamwork within the units", with 77% positive responses in the private health service (p <0.001). Responses strengthened in the dimension "Expectations about their supervisor / boss and actions promoting safety" were expressed by nursing in public, state and private hospitals. The dimensions "Support management for patient safety", "General perception of patient safety", "Return of information and communication about the error", "Professional Adequacy", "Shift report / shifts and transfers" and "Non-punitive error responses" were found to be fragile (<50%) in the three hospitals. It is concluded that the management assumed in the private health service benefits the safety culture, when compared to the state and federal public management. Nursing perceives patient safety more favorably. The medical and nursing professionals of the surgical units of the evaluated hospitals express punitive culture against the errors, reinforcing the need to solidify strategies for the change of this paradigm.

[A 55-year-old woman with thymoma and hypogammaglobulinemia (Good syndrome), ulcerative colitis, and cytomegalovirus infection]. / 55-jährige Patientin mit Thymom und Hypogammaglobulinämie (Good-Syndrom), Colitis ulcerosa sowie CMV-Infektion.

CASE REPORT: The authors report on a 55-year-old female patient after R1 resection of a malignant thymoma with spindle type epithelial cells (WHO type A, Masaoka stage III) referred for further therapy of an ulcerative colitis. At that time, both adjuvant radiation and cytostatic therapy were not applicable due to severe activity of the ulcerative colitis. Under immunosuppressive treatment with azathioprine and steroids, the patient developed cytomegalovirus (CMV) enteritis which was triggered by therapy-induced leukopenia. After a switch from azathioprine to mycophenolatmofetil (MMF) treatment and administration of cidofovir because of nonresponse to ganciclovir and incompatibility of foscarnet sodium (Foscavir), the patient clinically improved. In addition, the patient was treated with immunoglobulins every 3-4 weeks because of antibody deficiency. At present, 3.5 years after R1 resection, the patient still has no clues of a remaining tumor mass under current immunosuppressive therapy. Ulcerative colitis is also in complete remission stage. CONCLUSION: This case indicates the very rare features of a syndrome with thymoma and antibody deficiency which was first described by Robert Good. Furthermore, the impact of immunosuppressive therapy and management of opportunistic infections on the course of this disease is obvious.

Balloon dilatation vs. balloon dilatation plus bile duct endoprostheses for treatment of anastomotic biliary strictures after liver transplantation.

Biliary strictures after liver transplantation are a therapeutic challenge for endoscopy. Anastomotic strictures occur in 10% of patients after liver transplantation, leading untreated to mortality and ultimately to graft failure. Despite of successful reports, to date, there is no defined endoscopic therapy regimen for these cases. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine the most suitable concept for endoscopic treatment of post-liver transplant anastomotic strictures (PTAS). A total of 72 patients post-liver transplantation, who received endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) as a consequence of suspected biliary complications were retrospectively screened for the presence of PTAS. In all patients graft rejection or bile duct ischemia were excluded prior to ERC by liver biopsy or Doppler ultrasound respectively. We compared either balloon dilatation (BD) alone or dilatation plus placement of an increasing number of bile duct endoprostheses (BD + endoprostheses) in a retrospective analysis. A total of 25 of 75 patients showed PTAS. Overall, endoscopic therapy was successful in 22 of 25 patients (88%). BD was initially successful in 89% but showed recurrence in 62%. BD + endoprostheses was initially successful in 87%, and recurrence was observed only in 31%. All recurrences were successfully retreated by BD + endoprostheses. During 22 of 109 (20%) treatment sessions stone extraction was necessary. Complication rate was low with bacterial cholangitis in 8 of 109 (7.3%) sessions, mild pancreatitis in 10 of 109 (9%) sessions and minor bleeding in 2 of 25 (8%) sphincterotomies. Median follow-up after conclusion of endoscopic therapy is 6 months (range 1-43). In conclusion, our data confirm that endoscopic therapy of PTAS is highly effective and safe. As primarily successful BD shows a high rate of recurrence, we recommend a combination of BD followed by an increasing number and diameter of endoprostheses. Therapy sessions are effective at short intervals of every 2-3 months.

Coagulação intravascular disseminada na gravidez - considerações, diagnóstico e manejo / Disseminated intravascular coagulation in pregnancy - considerations, diagnosis and manegement

A Síndrome de Coagulação Intravascular Disseminada (CIVD) é caracterizada por alteração das vias de ativação e controle da coagulação sanguínea gerando acúmulos de fibrina na micro-vasculatura, com consumo de plaquetas e fatores de coagulação. Pode resultar em falência orgânica múltipla e sangramento anormal. A gravidez caracterizase por estado de hipercoagulabilidade e por complicações como descolamento prematuro de placenta, pré-eclâmpsia e síndrome HELLP que representam algumas das condições associadas à CIVD. Seu diagnóstico é feito baseado na suspeita clínica, conhecendo-se os fatores de risco associados e apoiando-se na propedêutica sugestiva de coagulopatia. A abordagem terapêutica consiste principalmente em tratar a anormalidade obstétrica de base. Mas podem ser necessárias as medidas de suporte e de reposição de elementos sanguíneos para a normalização da função hemostática. A CIVD, apesar de rara, figura como complicação obstétrica grave, que pode cursar com hemorragia intensa e levar a paciente ao óbito. Esta revisão propõe-se a sistematizar o conhecimento da CIVD para ajudar em seu manejo eficiente e estratégico.

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) is a syndrome characterized by altered activation and control of blood coagulation pathways causing accumulation of fibrin in the micro-vasculature, consumption of platelets and coagulation factors, which may result in organ failure and abnormal bleeding. Pregnancy is known to be a hypercoagulable state and complications such as placental abruption, pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome are some of the conditions associated to the onset of DIC. The diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and investigation of associated risk factors and supported by lab tests results suggestive of coagulopathy. Primary therapeutic management includes addressing the underlying obstetric disorder. However, additional supportive treatment and blood transfusion may be necessary to repair haemostatic function. Therefore, despite its rare incidence, DIC figures as a very serious obstetric complication that can cause massive bleeding and lead to patient´s death. This review aims to systematize the knowledge of this entity to allow an efficient and strategic management.