Neutrophils as instigators of thrombosis: Beyond antimicrobial protection. / Neutrófilos como instigadores de trombosis: más allá de la protección antimicrobiana.

When activated, neutrophils release structures (NETs) composed of DNA, histones and granular proteins that provide an ideal matrix for platelet activation and coagulation mechanisms, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of thrombosis in venous and arterial territories, as well as cancer-associated thrombosis. NETs play a key role in immunothrombosis, a term that describes the relationship between the immune response and coagulation.

Impact of dexamethasone and tocilizumab on hematological parameters in COVID-19 patients with chronic disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The most effective way to control severity and mortality rate of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is through sensitive diagnostic approaches and an appropriate treatment protocol. We aimed to identify the effect of adding corticosteroid and Tocilizumab to a standard treatment protocol in treating COVID-19 patients with chronic disease through hematological and lab biomarkers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was performed retrospectively on 68 COVID-19 patients with chronic disease who were treated by different therapeutic protocols. The patients were categorized into four groups: control group represented the patients' lab results at admission before treatment protocols were applied; group 1 included patients treated with anticoagulants, Hydroxychloroquine, and antibiotics; group 2 comprised patients treated with Dexamethasone; and group 3 included patients treated with Dexamethasone and Tocilizumab. RESULTS: The WBC and neutrophil counts were increased significantly in group 3 upon the treatment when they were compared with patients in group 1 (p=0.004 and p=0.001, respectively). The comparison of C-reactive Protein (CRP) level at admission was higher in group 3 than in group 1 with p=0.030. After 10 days of treatment, CRP level was decreased in all groups, but in group 3 it was statistically significant (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: The study paves the way into the effectiveness of combining Dexamethasone with Tocilizumab in treatment COVID-19 patients with chronic diseases.

99mTC-white blood cell scintigraphy with SPECT/CT in the diagnosis of vascular graft infection. / Gammagrafía con leucocitos marcados y SPECT/TC en el diagnóstico de infección de prótesis vasculares.

AIM: Vascular graft infection is a rare complication with a high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis is essential to establish an adequate treatment. We assess the accuracy of 99mTc-WBC scintigraphy with SPECT/CT in the diagnosis of vascular graft infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed thirty 99mTc-WBC scintigraphies with SPECT/CT performed in thirty patients with suspicion of vascular prosthesis infection. Studies were considered positive for graft infection if the intensity of activity involving the graft was greater than the liver or bone marrow activity (spine and pelvis). RESULTS: Final diagnosis of infection was established in 10 patients, based on Fitzgerald criteria. Scintigraphy was positive in 11 patients. No false negatives were obtained. The values of sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 95%, respectively, with a PPV of 91% and a NPV of 100%. Twenty five patients had a CT performed prior to scintigraphy, in 9 cases the result was positive and in the remaining 16 was negative. CT sensitivity and specificity obtained in our study were 62.5% and 76% respectively, with a PPV of 55.6% and a NPV of 81.3%. Diagnosis of infection led to prosthesis exeresis in 8 cases (all of them had a positive microbiological study of the extracted material), while the remaining 2 patients were treated with antibiotic therapy alone due to high surgical risk. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest a high accuracy for 99mTc-WBC scintigraphy with SPECT/CT in the assessment of clinically suspected arterial graft infection.

The clinical contribution of SPECT/CT with 99mTc-HMPAO-labeled leukocyte scintigraphy in hip and knee prosthetic infections. / Aportación clínica de la SPECT/TC en la gammagrafía con leucocitos marcados con 99mTc-HMPAO en infección de prótesis de cadera y rodilla.

OBJECTIVES: White blood cell scanning with 99mTc-hexamethylpropylene amine oxime (HMPAO) has proven a sensitive and specific imaging method in the diagnosis of suspected prosthesis infection. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the usefulness of SPECT/CT performed simultaneously using a hybrid imaging device of prosthesis infections. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 99mTc-HMPAO scintigraphy was performed on 37 patients (11 men and 26 women; age range 38-84 years; mean age±SD, 65.7±5.6 years). Planar scans were acquired 2.4 and 24hour after injection. SPECT/CT was obtained 4 h after injection, using a dual-head hybrid gama camera coupled with a low-power x-ray tube. In all patients, scintigraphic results were matched with the results of surgery, cultures and clinical follow-up. RESULTS: Seventeen (45,9%) out of 37 patients had prosthesis infection and 20 (54,1%) out of 37 patients had non-infectious prosthesis pathologies with 99mTc-HMPAO scintigraphy and SPECT/CT. The 99mTc-HMPAO scintigraphy was true-positive for infection in 16 of 37 patients and true-negative in 20 of 37 patients. SPECT/CT provided an accurate anatomic localization of all positive foci. With regard to the final diagnosis, SPECT/CT added a significant clinical contribution in 22 of 37 patients (59,4%). Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value and positive predictive values were 100%,59.1%,100%,62.5% in planar images with 99mTc-HMPAO scintigraphy and 100%,90.1%,100%,88.2% in the planar+SPECT/CT imaging, respectively. DISCUSSION: Our results indicate that SPECT/CT performed using a hybrid device can improve imaging with 99mTc-HMPAO scintigraphy in patients with suspected osteomyelitis by providing accurate anatomic localization and precise definition of the extent of infection.

Efectividad del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos en la fisura anal secundaria / Effectiveness of Treating Secondary Anal Fissure with Platelet and Leukocyte-Rich Plasma

Introducción: El plasma rico en plaquetas es un producto derivado de la sangre, rico en péptidos y proteínas de señalización intercelular, así como citoquinas capaces de intervenir en cada una de las etapas de la regeneración de varios tejidos. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos en pacientes con fisura anal secundaria que asistieron a la consulta de Coloproctología del Hospital Docente Provincial Oncológico María Curie de Camagüey en el período de enero de 2020 a enero de 2023. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental. El universo lo conformaron todos los pacientes que acudieron a consulta en ese período. La muestra no probabilística intencionada la conformaron 130 pacientes adultos con diagnóstico de fisura anal secundaria que recibieron tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos. Resultados: El tiempo de cicatrización de la fisura anal permitió corroborar la efectividad del tratamiento; además, la mayoría de los pacientes evolucionaron de forma favorable. El dolor fue la complicación más visible pues presentó significación estadística al establecer la relación entre las variables. Se demostró que el tratamiento con plasma rico en plaqueta y leucocitos en pacientes con fisura anal secundaria es efectivo y seguro en la evaluación final del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Lo expuesto permite considerar que los pacientes tratados obtuvieron buenos resultados al hacer uso del plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos. Por consiguiente, tiene un resultado positivo en no mostrar complicaciones y una alta posibilidad de que el paciente tratado evolucione en mejor condición(AU)

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma is a blood-derived product, rich in peptides and intercellular signaling proteins, as well as cytokines capable of intervening in each of the stages of regeneration of various tissues. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of treatment with platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma in patients with secondary anal fissure who attended the coloproctology office at Hospital Docente Provincial Oncológico María Curie of Camagüey from January 2020 to January 2023. Methods: A quasiexperimental study was carried out, whose universe consisted of all the patients who came for consultation during that period. The nonprobabilistic purposive sample consisted of 130 adult patients with a diagnosis of secondary anal fissure who received treatment with platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma. Results: The healing time of the anal fissure allowed corroborating the effectiveness of the treatment; in addition, most of the patients evolved favorably. Pain was the most visible complication since it presented statistical significance when the relationship between the variables were established. Treatment with platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma in patients with secondary anal fissure proved effective and safe in the final assessment of the treatment. Conclusions: The above allows considering that the treated patients obtained good outcomes when making use of platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma. Therefore, it has a positive outcome, not showing complications and a high possibility for the treated patient to evolve in a better condition(AU)

Caracterización del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos en la fisura anal secundaria / Characterization of the Treatment with Platelet-Rich Plasma and Leukocytes against Secondary Anal Fissure

Introducción: Las enfermedades benignas de recto son muy frecuentes en la práctica médica habitual en todos los niveles de atención de salud. Dentro de estos procesos se reconoce que la fisura anal es uno de los más comunes. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes tratados con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos por fisura anal secundaria en la provincia Camagüey en el período comprendido entre septiembre del 2020 y septiembre del 2022. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental, cuyo universo lo conformaron los pacientes con el diagnóstico de fisura anal secundaria que asistieron a la consulta de Coloproctología del Hospital Provincial Docente Oncológico María Curie. Se estableció una muestra no probabilística a criterio de los autores conformada por 132 pacientes adultos, quienes recibieron tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos por fisura anal secundaria en la provincia Camagüey. Resultados: Con respecto al sexo y a la edad, se observó una mayor frecuencia del grupo de 40 a 49 años y predominó el sexo femenino. El síntoma de mayor frecuencia fue el dolor, mientras que en la etiología prevaleció la proctitis facticia. En la mayoría de los casos estudiados la fisura anal cicatrizó en menos de 15 días y en cuanto a la evaluación final del tratamiento solo la minoría empeoró. Conclusiones: La caracterización de la muestra en estudio permite afirmar que el tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos tiene beneficios para los pacientes con fistulas perianales y su calidad de vida(AU)

Introduction: Benign rectal diseases are very frequent in routine medical practice at all levels of health care. Among these processes, anal fissure is recognized as one of the most common. Objective: To characterize patients treated with platelet-rich plasma and leukocytes for secondary anal fissure in Camagüey Province between September 2020 and September 2022. Methods: A quasiexperimental study was carried out, whose universe was made up of patients with the diagnosis of secondary anal fissure who attended the coloproctology office at Hospital Provincial Docente Oncológico María Curie. A nonprobabilistic sample was established according to the authors' criterions, made up of 132 adult patients who received treatment with platelet-rich plasma and leukocytes for secondary anal fissure in Camagüey Province. Results: Regarding sex and age, a higher frequency was observed in the group 40 to 49 years old and the female sex was predominant. The most frequent symptom was pain, while the prevailing etiology was factitious proctitis. In most of the cases under study, the anal fissure healed in less than 15 days and, regarding the final assessment of the treatment, only the minority worsened. Conclusions: The characterization of the sample under study allows to affirm that treatment with platelet-rich plasma and leukocytes has benefits for patients with perianal fistulas and their quality of life(AU)

Trombocitosis esencial de aparición durante el embarazo. Reporte de caso y revisión de la bibliografía / Essential thrombocytosis of pregnancy onset. Case report and literature review

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: La coexistencia de neoplasias mieloproliferativas durante el embarazo puede derivar en complicaciones para la madre y el feto, de ahí la indispensable necesidad de detectarlas oportunamente. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 30 años, primigesta. En el control prenatal se detectó una elevación significativa de plaquetas y leucocitos. Luego de descartar un proceso infeccioso e interconsulta con el hematólogo se le indicó un antiagregante plaquetario. El embarazo transcurrió sin complicaciones de tipo trombótico o hemorrágico y finalizó mediante cesárea a las 40 semanas, indicada por falta de progresión del trabajo de parto. Posteriormente se inició el tratamiento específico para la enfermedad y seguimiento. METODOLOGÍA: La búsqueda de artículos publicados durante los últimos 20 años se efectuó en las bases de datos PubMed y Clínical Key con los MeSH "essential thrombocytemia AND pregnancy", "hematological neoplasms AND pregnancy". RESULTADOS: Se obtuvieron 14 artículos de los que se excluyeron 3 por no incluir a mujeres embarazadas. La revisión final fue de 11 artículos. CONCLUSIONES: El seguimiento correcto del control prenatal permite advertir las complicaciones médicas independientes del embarazo. Cuando así sucede es posible la intervención oportuna y la participación de otros especialistas que confirmen el diagnóstico para, en conjunto, tomen la mejor decisión en beneficio de la madre y su hijo por nacer.

Abstract BACKGROUND: The coexistence of myeloproliferative neoplasms during pregnancy may lead to maternal and fetal complications, and early detection is essential. CLINICAL CASE: A 30-year-old primigravida. Prenatal examination revealed a significant increase in platelets and leukocytes. After exclusion of an infectious process and consultation with the haematologist, she was prescribed an antiplatelet agent. The pregnancy proceeded without thrombotic or haemorrhagic complications and was terminated by caesarean section at 40 weeks, indicated for lack of progress in labour. Specific treatment of the disease and follow-up were then initiated. METHODOLOGY: Articles published in the last 20 years were searched in PubMed and Clinical Key databases using MeSH "essential thrombocythemia AND pregnancy", "haematological neoplasms AND pregnancy". RESULTS: We obtained 14 articles, of which 3 were excluded because they did not include pregnant women. The final review consisted of 11 articles. CONCLUSIONS: Correct follow-up of antenatal care can warn of medical complications independent of pregnancy. In this case, timely intervention and involvement of other specialists is possible to confirm the diagnosis and make the best joint decision for the benefit of the mother and her unborn child.

Barrera de reparación de la base craneal en los abordajes endonasales endoscópicos

Introducción: Los abordajes endonasales endoscópicos son los procedimientos de elección para tumores mediales en la base craneal por su seguridad y efectividad. La reparación de la base craneal constituye un elevado desafío. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad de la construcción de una barrera de reconstrucción de la base craneal en pacientes con tumores de la base craneal operados por procedimientos endonasales endoscópicos. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, que incluyó a 70 pacientes del Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras operados de tumores de la base craneal por procedimientos endonasales endoscópicos. Se construyó una barrera de reparación de la base craneal para aislar el compartimiento nasosinusal del intracraneal. Se determinó la eficiencia de la barrera de reparación mediante aspectos clínicos y endoscópicos. Se definieron aspectos a evaluar en relación con la vitalidad de la barrera de reparación con el empleo de la fibrina rica en plaquetas y leucocitos. Resultados: Se evidenció una barrera de reparación eficiente en el 98,6 %. En relación con estado de vitalidad de la barrera se apreció una adherencia, granulación en el 98,6 % de pacientes, mientras una angiogénesis de 97,1%. La incidencia de fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo posoperatoria fue de solo 1,4 %. Conclusiones: El presente estudio evidencia el efecto positivo de la construcción de una barrera de reparación eficiente de la base craneal por vía endonasal endoscópica con disminución significativa de fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo y sus complicaciones.

Introduction: Endoscopic endonasal approaches are the procedures of choice for medial tumors in the cranial base given their safety and effectiveness. Repair of the cranial base constitutes a high challenge. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of constructing a cranial base reconstruction barrier in patients with cranial base tumors operated on by endoscopic endonasal approaches. Method: A descriptive study was carried out, which included 70 patients from the Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital operated on for cranial base tumors using endoscopic endonasal approaches. A cranial base repair barrier was constructed to isolate the sinonasal and intracranial compartments. The efficiency of the repair barrier was determined through clinical and endoscopic aspects. Aspects were defined to be evaluated in relation to the vitality of the repair barrier with the use of fibrin rich in platelets and leukocytes. Results: An efficient repair barrier was evident in 98.6%. In relation to the state of vitality of the barrier, adhesion and granulation were observed in 98.6% of patients, while angiogenesis was observed in 97.1%. The incidence of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak was only 1.4%. Conclusions: The present study shows the positive effect of the construction of an efficient repair barrier of the cranial base in endoscopic endonasal approaches with a significant reduction in cerebrospinal fluid leak and its complications.

Niveles plasmáticos de Vitamina D en adultos mayores de Lima Metropolitana, Perú

Objetivo. Determinar los niveles plasmáticos de vitamina D y su relación con la ocupación, procedencia y los valores de calcio, leucocitos, hemoglobina y plaquetas en adultos mayores de Lima Metropolitana. Método. Estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal, participaron 100 adultos mayores de uno u otro sexo de Lima Metropolitana, ellos fueron reclutados durante las estaciones de invierno-primavera del 2022, los niveles de vitamina D se categorizó como suficiente, insuficiente y deficiente, las concentraciones séricas de vitamina D se midieron por radioinmunoensayo. La relación de variables se realizó con el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman y regresión logística. Resultados. La edad media fue 69.6 años, el 71%, fueron del sexo femenino, la concentración media de vitamina D fue 36.56 ng/ml, el 13% tuvieron niveles de deficiente, y el 32% de insuficiente y el 53% suficientes. Según sexo, el 77,7% de los que tuvieron niveles de deficiente/insuficiente fueron mujeres. En el análisis bivariado no hubo correlación entre los valores de vitamina D con calcio, hemoglobina leucocitos y plaquetas, los que procedieron de distritos de menor temperatura tuvieron 2,25 veces más riesgo de tener niveles insuficientes/deficiente de vitamina D. Conclusiones. El 45% de los adultos mayores tuvieron niveles deficientes/insuficiente de vitamina D, siendo más frecuente en las mujeres y de los procedentes de distritos de menor promedio de temperatura.

Objective. To determine the plasmatic levels of vitamin D and its relationship with the occupation, origin and the values of calcium, leukocytes, hemoglobin and platelets in older adults of Metropolitan Lima. Methods Observational descriptive cross-sectional study, 100 older adults of either sex from Metropolitan Lima participated, they were recruited during the winter-spring seasons of 2022, vitamin D levels were categorised as sufficient, insufficient, and deficient, serum vitamin D concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. The relationship of variables was established with the Spearman correlation coefficient and logistic regression. Results. The mean age was 69.6 years, 71% were women, the mean vitamin D concentration was 36.56 ng/ml, 13% had deficient levels, 32% were insufficient and 53% sufficient. By sex, 77.7% of those with deficient/insufficient levels were women. In the bivariate analysis, there was no correlation between vitamin D values with calcium, hemoglobin, leukocytes and platelets; those who came from districts with lower temperatures had a 2.25 times greater risk of having insufficient/deficient levels of vitamin D. Conclusions. 45% of older adults had deficient/insufficient levels of vitamin D, more frequent in women and those coming from districts with lower average temperatures.

Dolor y edema posquirúrgico en la regeneración cutánea nasal con fibrina rica en plaquetas y leucocitos / Post-surgical pain and edema in nasal skin regeneration with fibrin rich in platelets and leukocytes

Introducción: La reconstrucción de defectos cutáneos nasales requiere del uso de procedimientos orientados a obtener la menor probabilidad de complicaciones posoperatorias en el menor período de tiempo posible. Novedosas técnicas utilizan los concentrados plaquetarios por sus propiedades moduladoras del dolor y el edema posoperatorio. Objetivo: Determinar el comportamiento del dolor y el edema posquirúrgico en la regeneración de defectos cutáneos nasales con el uso de la membrana de fibrina autóloga, rica en plaquetas y leucocitos. Método: Se realizó una investigación cuasiexperimental, con diseño antes-después, sin grupo control en el Servicio de Cirugía Maxilofacial del Hospital Universitario "Arnaldo Milián Castro" de la ciudad de Santa Clara, Villa Clara, Cuba, desde septiembre de 2015 a junio de 2019. La muestra seleccionada aleatoriamente fue de 46 pacientes. A partir de una autodonación de sangre del paciente se obtuvo una membrana de fibrina rica en plaquetas y leucocitos, la cual fue suturada en el defecto quirúrgico nasal. Resultados: La edad media fue 62,71 años y el 60,87 por ciento de la muestra correspondió al sexo masculino. Se presentaron el dolor en el 23,91 por ciento y el edema en el 28,26 por ciento de la muestra estudiada. Conclusiones: Se encontraron escasas complicaciones posoperatorias como el dolor y el edema, las que se manifestaron predominantemente de intensidad leve. Existió asociación entre estas complicaciones y la edad, la cantidad de subunidades anatómicas afectadas, la diabetes mellitus y el tabaquismo(AU)

Introduction: The reconstruction of nasal skin defects requires the use of procedures aimed at obtaining the lowest probability of postoperative complications in the shortest period of time possible. Novel techniques use platelet concentrates for their modulating properties of pain and postoperative edema. Objective: To determine the behavior of pain and post-surgical edema in the regeneration of nasal skin defects with the use of autologous platelet- and leukocyte-rich fibrin membrane. Method: A quasi-experimental research was carried out, with a before-after design, without a control group, in the Maxillofacial Surgery Service at Arnaldo Milián Castro University Hospital in Santa Clara, Villa Clara, Cuba, from September 2015 to June 2015. 2019. The randomly selected sample was 46 patients. A fibrin membrane rich in platelets and leukocytes was obtained from a patient's blood self-donation, which was sutured in the nasal surgical defect. Results: The mean age was 62.71 years and 60.87 por ciento f the sample was male. Pain was present in 23.91 por ciento and edema in 28.26 por ciento of the studied sample. Conclusions: Few postoperative complications such as pain and edema were found, showing to be mild predominantly. There was association between these complications and age, the number of affected anatomical subunits, diabetes mellitus and smoking habit(AU)

Ayudas diagnósticas y diagnóstico diferencial de la enfermedad de Pompe / Diagnostic aids and differential diagnosis of Pompe disease

Introducción: La enfermedad de Pompe (EP) o glucogenosis tipo II es una enfermedad autosómica recesiva causada por mutaciones en el gen GAA que codifica para la proteína alfa-1,4-glucosidasa. Su deficiencia lleva a un almacenamiento anormal de glucógeno en los lisosomas de varias células, a través de los diferentes tejidos, lo que causa un compromiso musculoesquelético predominante. Contenidos: Los fenotipos de la enfermedad dependen de las variantes genéticas y de los niveles de la actividad enzimática residual. La enfermedad se presenta como EP de inicio infantil, EP de inicio tardío y EP intermedio, por lo que es de suma importancia su diagnóstico temprano, por medio de estudios moleculares como la secuenciación de Sanger y la secuenciación de nueva generación. Conclusiones: Se ha demostrado, mediante diferentes estudios, que las variaciones genéticas pueden diferir entre etnias, y es importante su caracterización molecular para determinar el tratamiento más adecuado, de acuerdo con el estado del material inmunológico de reacción cruzada (CRIM).

Introduction: Pompe disease (PD) or Glycogenosis Type II is a rare autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations in the GAA gene that codes for the alpha-1,4-glucosidase protein. Its deficiency leads to abnormal glycogen storage in the lysosomes of various cells throughout the different tissues causing a predominant musculoskeletal compromise. Contents: The phenotypes of the disease depend on the genetic variants and the levels of residual enzyme activity, presenting as infantile-onset PD, late-onset PD, and intermediate PD; Therefore, early diagnosis of the disease through molecular studies such as Sanger sequencing and new generation sequencing is of utmost importance. Conclusions: It has been shown through different studies that genetic variations can vary between ethnic groups and the molecular characterization of the variants is important to determine the most appropriate treatment depending on the state of the cross-reactive immunological material (CRIM)

Blood count reference intervals for the Brazilian adult population: National Health Survey / Intervalos de referência de hemograma da população adulta brasileira: Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the reference intervals (RIs) of complete blood count parameters in the Brazilian adult population. Methods: Cross-sectional study, with data from the National Health Survey (Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde - PNS), between 2014-2015. The final sample consisted of 2,803 adults. To establish the RIs, exclusion criteria were applied, outliers were removed and partitions were made by gender, age, and race/skin color. The non-parametric method was adopted. Differences were assessed using the Mann Whitney and Kruskal Wallis tests (p≤0.05). Results: There were statistically significant differences for the following hematological parameters based on gender, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCH, MCHC, eosinophils and absolute monocytes, neutrophils and platelets (p≤0.05). When analyzed by age, the RIs were statistically different in females for hematocrit, MCV, white blood cells and RDW and in males for red blood cells, white blood cells, eosinophils, mean platelet volume, MCV, RDW, and MCH (p≤0.05). For race/color, there were differences in the RIs for parameters of hemoglobin, MCH, MCHC, white blood cells and mean platelet volume, neutrophils and absolute eosinophils (p≤0.05). Conclusion: The differences found in the RIs of some in blood count parameters in Brazilian adults reaffirm the importance of having their own laboratory reference standards. The results can support a more accurate interpretation of tests, adequate identification and disease prevention in Brazil.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar os intervalos de referência (IR) de parâmetros de hemograma completo na população adulta brasileira. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS), entre 2014-2015. A amostra final constitui-se de 2.803 adultos. Para estabelecer os IR, aplicou-se critérios de exclusão, removeram-se outliers e foram feitos particionamentos por sexo, idade e raça/cor da pele. Adotou-se o método não paramétrico. As diferenças foram avaliadas pelos testes Mann Withney e Kruskal Wallis (p≤0,05). Resultados: Houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas nos IR segundo sexo para glóbulos vermelhos, hemoglobina, hematócrito, HCM, CHCM, eosinófilos, monócitos, neutrófilos absolutos e plaquetas (p≤0,05). Quando analisados por idade, houve diferenças nos IR de mulheres para hematócrito, VCM, glóbulos brancos e RDW, e nos homens em glóbulos vermelhos, glóbulos brancos, eosinófilos, volume plaquetário médios, VCM, RDW e HCM (p≤0,05). Para raça/cor, houve diferenças nos IR de hemoglobina, HCM, CHMC, glóbulos brancos e volume plaquetário médio, neutrófilos e eosinófilos absolutos (p≤0,05). Conclusão: As diferenças encontradas nos IR de alguns parâmetros de hemograma nos adultos brasileiros, reafirmam a importância de se ter padrões laboratoriais próprios de referência. Os resultados podem subsidiar a interpretação mais precisa dos exames, identificação adequada e a prevenção de doenças no Brasil.

One-day protocol versus two-day protocol in acquisition of scintigraphy with "in vitro" labelled white blood cells for diagnosis of osteoarticular infection. / Protocolo de un día vs protocolo de dos días de adquisición mediante gammagrafía con leucocitos marcados in vitro para el diagnóstico de infección osteoarticular.

INTRODUCTION: It is difficult to determine osteoarticular infection and differentiate inflammation from infection with laboratory and imaging procedures (CT, MRI, US). Labelled white-blood-cell scintigraphy (WBCS) is the nuclear medicine test of choice but it takes two days, sometimes finds it difficult to differentiate soft tissue from bone infection and therefore causes interobserver variability, which decreases its specificity. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the usefulness of the one-day protocol with time decay-corrected acquisition in WBCS to diagnose osteoarticular infection and to reduce interobserver variability. The role of SPECT/CT in WBCS in locating the infected focus was also evaluated. METHODS: 110 patients with suspected osteoarticular infection were studied prospectively. Planar images were obtained with time decay-corrected acquisition at 30min, 4h, 8h and 24h. WBCS planar images were grouped in two protocols: One-day protocol: experts evaluated 30min, 4h and 8h images. Two-day protocol: experts evaluated 30min, 4h and 24h images. Both protocols were classified as: SPECT/CT was performed in 72 patients. Kappa index was calculated to evaluate interobserver variability. RESULTS: Infection was confirmed in 34 cases. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic accuracy were 97.1%, 97.4%, 94.3%, 98.7%, and 97.3% for the one-day protocol and 94.1%, 97.4%, 94.1%, 97.4%, and 96.4% for two-days-protocol. SPECT/CT contributed to diagnosis in 45/50 patients with planar WBCS positive. Kappa index: 0.8 for one-day protocol and 0.79 for two-day protocol, respectively. CONCLUSION: One-day protocol with time decay-corrected acquisition WBCS and SPECT/CT enables early and accurate diagnosis of osteoarticular infection.

Detección de Chlamydia spp. en leucocitos de sangre periférica de ovinos sin aborto previo / Detection of Chlamydia spp. In Peripheral Blood Leukocytes in Ewes without any Previous Abortion

Resumen El aborto enzootico ovino es una enfermedad causada por Chlamydia abortus. Es considerada una zoonosis y una de las principales causas de pérdidas económicas en estas explotaciones. Este trabajo se enfocó en utilizar el cultivo de leucocitos de animales sin signos de abortos y la detección de anticuerpos para determinar la posible presencia de C. abortus en explotaciones de traspatio. Se obtuvieron 42 muestras de sangre periférica de ovejas de diferentes poblaciones. La detección de Chlamydia abortus se realizó mediante la tinción de Giemsa y la técnica de PCR. La detección de anticuerpos anti-C. abortus se dio mediante una técnica de ELISA comercial. Los resultados mostraron 21 muestras positivas mediante la técnica de PCR, de las cuales solo 10 fueron positivas mediante la técnica de Giemsa, mientras que 22 sueros mostraron anticuerpos anti-C. abortus. En este estudio el 38,1 % de las muestras fueron positivas a la infección por C. abortus, como se confirmó mediante PCR y serología. En conclusión, los leucocitos de sangre periférica pueden ser útiles para detectar una infección por Chlamydia spp. en explotaciones sin historial de abortos, con lo que se puede conocer la prevalencia real del aborto enzootico ovino en México.

Abstract The Ewes Enzootic Abortion is a disease caused byChlamydia abortus. It is deemed a zoonosis and one of the leading causes of financial losses in this type of business. This article focuses on using the culture of leukocytes from animals without any abortion symptoms and antibody detection to determine the potential presence ofC. abortusin backyard exploitations. Forty-two samples of peripheral blood were obtained from ewes in different populations. The detection ofChlamydia abortuswas carried out by using the Giemsa dye and PCR technique. Anti-C. Abortusantibody detection was performed through a commercial ELISA technique. Results showed 21 positive samples using the PCR, and only ten were positive according to the Giemsa dye, while 22 serum samples showed anti-C. abortusantibody. In this study, 38.1% of the samples were positive for theC. abortusinfection, as verified with the PCR and serology. In conclusion, peripheral blood leukocytes can be helpful to detect an infection caused byChlamydiaspp. Animal exploitation without any previous abortion allows knowing the real prevalence of ewes' enzootic abortion in Mexico.

Parámetros del líquido amniótico para diagnóstico de respuesta inflamatoria en parto pretérmino / Amniotic fluid parameters for the diagnosis of inflammatory response in preterm delivery

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el rendimiento del Gram, la glucosa y los leucocitos en líquido amniótico para el diagnóstico de respuesta inflamatoria fetal y materna en pacientes con parto pretérmino. MÉTODO: Estudio de rendimiento de pruebas diagnósticas. Se incluyeron 63 pacientes a quienes se les realizó amniocentesis por sospecha de infección intraamniótica. Se estudió la placenta y se comparó con el Gram, la glucosa y el recuento de leucocitos en líquido amniótico para ver su relación con la respuesta inflamatoria. Se evaluaron la sensibilidad, la especificidad, las razones de verosimilitud (LR, likelihood ratio), los valores predictivos y el valor de kappa. RESULTADOS: Las pruebas con mejor rendimiento fueron en conjunto la glucosa 50/mm3 en líquido amniótico, con una especificidad del 94,3% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 84,6-98,1), LR + 8,83 (IC95%: 2,5-31,2) y kappa de 0,48 (IC95%: 0,15-0,82). También se consideró la propuesta de un nuevo punto de corte para el recuento de leucocitos en líquido amniótico en la respuesta inflamatoria fetal. CONCLUSIONES: La combinación del recuento de leucocitos en líquido amniótico y los valores de glucosa mejora el rendimiento para el diagnóstico de respuesta inflamatoria fetal en comparación con la histopatología de la placenta, lo que proporciona información útil para el enfoque de los recién nacidos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of Gram, glucose and leukocytes in amniotic fluid for the diagnosis of fetal and maternal inflammatory response in patients with preterm delivery. METHOD: A diagnostic performance test study was carried out. Sixty-three patients with preterm labor were included who underwent amniocentesis due to suspected intra-amniotic infection. Histopathology of the placenta was studied and compared with the Gram result, glucose and leukocyte count in amniotic fluid, and their relationship with the maternal and fetal inflammatory response. Sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, predictive values, and kappa were evaluated. RESULTS: The tests with the best performance were overall glucose 50/mm3 in amniotic fluid for the diagnosis of the fetal inflammatory response, with a specificity of 94.3% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 84.6-98.1%), likelihood positive ratio 8.83 (95% CI: 2.5-31.2) and kappa of 0.48 (95% CI: 0.15-0.82). A new cut-off point for leukocyte count in amniotic fluid to diagnose fetal inflammatory response was proposed. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of amniotic fluid leukocyte count and amniotic fluid glucose values improves performance for the diagnosis of inflammatory response compared with placental histopathology, providing useful information for newborns approach.

Analysis of different platelet-rich fibrin processing / Análise de diferentes processamentos da fibrina rica em plaquetas

Introduction: Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is formed by an autologous blood concentrate, with properties that promote cell proliferation and regenerationof bone, gingival and epithelial tissue. Objective: To compare four different procedures for processing as well as obtaining PRF, and analyzing their formation through laboratory techniques. The purpose of the study is to validate a method that produces higher quality PRF for oral surgery use in different branches of dentistry. Material and method: The experiment consisted of collecting blood from 12 volunteers, and processing each patient's sample in 4 different ways. In the following two-stage process analysis, the first, quantitative, step was to analyze the samples' platelet-poor plasma (PPP),with a Neubauer Hemocytometer to count blood components. In the second, qualitative step, the sample's PRF were analyzed under microscopy using histological slides. Result: The statistical analysis of the leukocyte, red blood cell and platelet count did not show any significant distinction when comparing different processes. Histological analysis of the PRF showed fibrin network with platelet aggregation, several leukocytes and presence of red blood cells, with double centrifuged samples presenting more white blood cells than the others. Conclusion: Among the analyzed procedures, the sample centrifuged once at 3000 RPM (1900 G) for 10 min showed the best quality PRF.

Introdução: A fibrina rica em plaquetas (FRP) é formada por um concentrado sanguíneo autólogo, com propriedades de promover a proliferação celular, regeneração de tecido, dentre eles tecido ósseo, gengival e epitelial. Objetivo: Comparar quatro tipos diferentes de processamento e obtenção de FRP, analisando a sua formação através de técnicas laboratoriais. A finalidade do estudo é validar um método que obtenha maior qualidade para o uso em cirurgias nas diversas áreas da odontologia. Material e método: O experimento foi constituído de uma coleta de sangue de 12 voluntários, onde a amostra de cada paciente foi processada de 4 formas. A análise dos processamentos se deu em duas etapas, onde na primeira, quantitativa, foi analisado o plasma pobre em plaquetas (PPP), através de contagem de constituintes sanguíneos em câmara de Neubauer. Na segunda etapa, qualitativa, foram analisadas as FRP em microscopia através de lâminas histológicas. Resultado: A análise estatística da contagem de leucócitos, hemácias e plaquetas não mostraram diferença significativa entre os distintos processamentos. As análises histológicas do FRP mostraram redes de fibrina com agregação plaquetária, inúmeros leucócitos e presença de hemácias, sendo que as amostras de dupla centrifugação apresentaram mais leucócitos que nas demais. Conclusão: Dos procedimentos analisados, a amostra centrifugada a 1 única vez a 3000 RPM (1900 G) por 10 min mostrou-se a melhor qualidade de FRP.

Contaje de leucocitos y relación neutrófilos/linfocitos en el segundo trimestre del embarazo como predictor de preeclampsia

Objetivo : Establecer la utilidad del contaje de leucocitos y relación neutrófilos/ linfocitos en el segundo trimestre del embarazo como predictor del desarrollo de preeclampsia. Diseño: Estudio de casos-controles. Institución. Hospital Central "Dr. Urquinaona", Venezuela. Participantes : Embarazadas entre 17 y 20 semanas que acudieron a la consulta prenatal y fueron seguidas hasta el término del embarazo. Métodos: Se tomaron muestras de sangre de las gestantes, que fueron seguidas hasta el parto para establecer si desarrollaban preeclampsia. Principales medidas de resultado. Características generales de las pacientes, valores de leucocitos, neutrófilos, linfocitos, relación neutrófilos/linfocitos y eficacia pronóstica. Resultados : De las 504 pacientes seleccionadas, 41 embarazadas desarrollaron preeclampsia (grupo A) y 463 embarazadas fueron consideradas como controles (grupo B). No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en las características generales al inicio del estudio (p = ns). La edad gestacional en el momento del diagnóstico de preeclampsia en el grupo A fue de 35,0 ± 3,2 semanas. Se encontró que las pacientes del grupo A presentaron valores significativamente más elevados de leucocitos, neutrófilos y relación neutrófilos/linfocitos junto a valores más bajos de linfocitos comparados con las pacientes del grupo B (p < 0,05). Solo los valores absolutos de neutrófilos (área bajo la curva 0,810) y de relación neutrófilos/linfocitos (área bajo la curva 0,963) tuvieron valores pronósticos útiles para discriminar entre los grupos de pacientes para el desarrollo de preeclampsia (p < 0,05). Conclusión: La relación neutrófilos/linfocitos y el contaje absoluto de neutrófilos en el segundo trimestre del embarazo son herramientas útiles en la predicción de preeclampsia.

Objective : To establish the usefulness of leukocyte count and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in the second trimester of pregnancy as a predictor of the development of preeclampsia. Design : Case-control study. Institution: Hospital Central "Dr. Urquinaona", Venezuela. Participants : Pregnant women between 17 and 20 weeks who attended prenatal consultation and were followed up to term. Methods: Blood samples were taken from the pregnant women who were followed until delivery to establish whether they developed preeclampsia. Main outcome measures: General characteristics of the patients, values of leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and prognostic efficacy. Results : Of the 504 patients selected, 41 pregnant women developed preeclampsia (group A) and 463 pregnant women were considered as controls (group B). No statistically significant differences were found in overall characteristics at baseline (p = ns). The gestational age at the time of diagnosis of preeclampsia in group A was 35.0 +/3.2 weeks. Patients in group A were found to have significantly higher values of leukocytes, neutrophils and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio along with lower values of lymphocytes compared to patients in group B (p < 0.05). Only the absolute values of neutrophils (area under the curve 0.810) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (area under the curve 0.963) had useful prognostic values for discriminating between patient groups for the development of preeclampsia (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and absolute neutrophil count in the second trimester of pregnancy are useful tools in the prediction of preeclampsia.

Usefulness of scintigraphy with labelled leucocytes and SPECT/CT in vascular graft infection. / Utilidad de la gammagrafía con leucocitos marcados y SPECT/TC en la infección de injertos vasculares.

Vascular graft infections are a rare complication in this type of procedure. However, when they do occur, they usually have high morbidity, and even a high mortality. Proper identification and location is crucial for the appropriate and early management, whether medical or surgical, thus knowledge of the right tools is paramount. Nuclear medicine studies play an important role in this regard, either by using labelled white blood cells scintigraphy or 18F-FDG. The choice, among other factors, will depend on the experience with both techniques by the different groups, their knowledge of them, as well as their availability. Two cases are presented in which 99mTc-HMPAO-white blood cells SPECT/CT scintigraphy was very useful in the diagnosis and location of the suspected infectious compromise, which led to the subsequent appropriate and guided management. Both cases were confirmed clinically and microbiologically.

Biomateriales utilizados en cirugía bucal

Los biomateriales son todos aquellos materiales aceptados por el organismo y pueden ser obtenidos de manera autóloga o sintética lo que dependería del tipo de utilidad que proporcionará el profesional odontólogo. La utilización de estos materiales se ha ido incrementando en la medida en que se ven favorecidos los pacientes en el proceso de reparación de los tejidos. El plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) es el contenido de plaquetas en forma de sobrenadante tras la centrifugación de sangre anti coagulada; constituye la principal fuente de actividad mitógena en el plasma sanguíneo y actúa como vehículo portador de factores de crecimiento y proteínas importantes en la biología ósea. Los factores de crecimiento son un conjunto de sustancias de naturaleza peptídica cuya función es la comunicación intercelular a nivel molecular. Regulan la migración, la proliferación, la diferenciación, el metabolismo y la apoptosis celular, y estimulan el aumento del tamaño celular al incrementar la síntesis proteica de las células sobre las que actúan. Este trabajo tiene por objetivo revisar los biomateriales utilizados en cirugía bucal en la literatura actualizada en los sitios web como Mendeley, Cicco, Science Direct, Wiley, Springer Open, Scielo, BVS, Google Académico, PubMed.

Biomaterials are all those materials accepted by the organism and can be obtained autologously or synthetically, which would depend on the type of use provided by the professional dentist. The use of these materials has increased as patients are favored in the process of repairing tissues. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is the content of platelets in the form of a supernatant after centrifugation of anti-coagulated blood; it constitutes the main source of mitogenic activity in blood plasma and acts as a carrier of growth factors and important proteins in bone biology. Growth factors are a set of substances of a peptide nature whose function is intercellular communication at the molecular level. They regulate cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism and apoptosis, stimulate an increase of cell size by increasing the protein synthesis of the cells on which they act. This work aims to review the biomaterials used in oral surgery in updated literature on websites such as Mendeley, Cicco, Science Direct, wiley, springer open, Scielo, BVS, Google Academico, PubMed.

Quistes óseos aneurismáticos. Terapia celular con células mononucleares y seguimiento imagenológico en dos pacientes adolescentes / Aneurysmal bone cysts. Mononuclear cell therapy and imaging follow-up in two adolescent patients

RESUMEN Los quistes óseos aneurismáticos son frecuentes en la edad pediátrica. Para su determinación se cuenta con diversos estudios imagenológicos como la radiografía y la tomografía axial computarizada que pueden colaborar al diagnóstico diferencial con otras lesiones. Existen disímiles opciones terapéuticas, el uso de factores de crecimiento autólogos se ha considerado como alternativa eficaz. Se presentan dos pacientes consultados en el servicio de Ortopedia del Hospital Provincial Pediátrico Universitario «José Luis Miranda¼, de Villa Clara, con diagnóstico clínico e imagenológico de quiste óseo aneurismático que recibieron tratamiento mediante terapia celular con células mononucleares con buena evolución clínica y radiográfica. Esta técnica es aplicable en nuestro medio ya que no requiere de estimables recursos materiales lo que constituye una fortaleza para su implementación. Las radiografías permiten reconocer la evolución posterior al tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Aneurysmal bone cysts are common in children. For its determination, various imaging studies are available, such as radiography and computerized axial tomography, which can collaborate in the differential diagnosis with other lesions. There are dissimilar therapeutic options, the use of autologous growth factors has been considered as an effective alternative. We present two patients seen in the Orthopedics service at "José Luis Miranda" University Pediatric Hospital in Villa Clara, with a clinical and imaging diagnosis of aneurysmal bone cyst who received treatment with mononuclear cell therapy having a good clinical and radiographic evolution. This technique is applicable in our environment since it does not require considerable material resources, which constitutes a strength for its implementation. X-rays allow us to recognize the evolution after treatment.