Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in a prospective cohort of COVID-19 survivors

ABSTRACT Purpose: To analyze the prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients who survived moderate and severe forms of COVID-19 and the risk factors for LUTS six months after hospitalization. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, patients were evaluated six months after hospitalization due to COVID-19. LUTS were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score. General health was assessed through the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the EQ5D-L5 scale, which evaluates mobility, ability to perform daily activities, pain and discomfort and completed a self-perception health evaluation. Results: Of 255 participants, 54.1% were men and the median age was 57.3 [44.3 - 66.6] years. Pre-existing comorbidities included diabetes (35.7%), hypertension (54.5%), obesity (30.2%) and physical inactivity (65.5%). One hundred and twenty-four patients (48.6%) had a hospital stay >15 days, 181 (71.0%) were admitted to an ICU and 124 (48.6%) needed mechanical ventilation. Median IPSS was 6 [3-11] and did not differ between genders. Moderate to severe LUTS affected 108 (42.4%) patients (40.6% men and 44.4% women; p=0.610). Nocturia (58.4%) and frequency (45.9%) were the most prevalent symptoms and urgency was the only symptom that affected men (29.0%) and women (44.4%) differently (p=0.013). LUTS impacted the quality of life of 60 (23.5%) patients with women more severely affected (p=0.004). Diabetes, hypertension, and self-perception of worse general health were associated with LUTS. Conclusions: LUTS are highly prevalent and bothersome six months after hospitalization due to COVID-19. Assessment of LUTS may help ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment in these patients.

Clinical safety and efficacy of microwave ablation for small renal masses

ABSTRACT Purpose: CT-guided MWA is a safe and effective tool that should be utilized in the treatment of small renal masses (SRMs). We aim to clarify the utility of CT-guided MWA by examining patient outcomes such as recurrence, treatment success, changes in renal function, and complications. Methods: A retrospective review of consecutive patients with SRMs who underwent same day renal mass biopsy (RMB) and CT-guided MWA between 2015 and 2022 was performed. Treatment safety was assessed by 30-day complications according to the Clavien-Dindo system and change in eGFR >30 days post-procedure. Treatment efficacy was defined by local recurrence and incomplete treatment rates and calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: A total of 108 renal masses were found in 104 patients. The overall complication rate was 7.4% (8/108), of which 4 were major complications (3.7%). For those with renal function available >30 days post ablation, the median eGFR was 47.2 (IQR: 36.0, 57), compared to 52.3 (IQR: 43.7, 61.5) pre-ablation, p<0.0001. 5-year local recurrence free survival was 86%. Among those with biopsy proven malignancy (n= 66), there were five local recurrences (7.54%) occurring at a median of 25.1 months (IQR 19.9, 36.2) and one case (1.5%) of incomplete treatment. Conclusions: As the medical field continues to evolve towards less invasive interventions, MWA offers a valuable tool in the management of renal masses. With low major complication and recurrence rates, our findings support the utility of CT-guided MWA as a tool for treatment of SRMs.

Production of dendritic cell vaccines using different methods with equivalent results: Implications for emerging centers

Introduction Dendritic cell (DC) vaccines have demonstrated good efficacy in preventing relapse and in increasing survival of patients affected by a variety of both solid and hematological tumors. Most protocols used to generate these cells involve the automated separation of peripheral blood monocytes from patients. This approach requires specialized equipment, which elevates the cost of this type of therapy, potentially limiting the widespread access to patients. Method: In this study, we compare the yield and quality of dendritic cells generated from monocytes and isolated by an automated method or by manual methods using gradient centrifugation. Results The results demonstrate the equivalence of the 3 methods in relation to the yield and final quality of the product, however with considerable differences between the costs of these procedures. In addition, this study also demonstrates the feasibility of the antigenic pulse with autologous tumor cell lysates, constituting a source of antigens, not only easily obtained and manipulated, but also specific to the patient's tumor. Conclusion These findings may have important implications for emerging centers interested in using this medical approach and potentially increase the access of a greater number of patients to this therapeutic option.

Apical bleeding: a rare cause of blindness after orbital decompression / Sangramento apical: uma causa rara de cegueira pós descompressão orbitária

ABSTRACT Orbital decompression is widely performed for the management of proptosis for cosmetic and functional cases of Graves orbitopathy. The main side effects include dry eye, diplopia, and numbness. Blindness after orbital decompression is extremely rare. The mechanisms of vision loss after decompression are not well described in the literature. Considering the devastating effect and rarity of this complication, this study presented two cases of blindness after orbital decompression. In both cases, vision loss was provoked by slight bleeding in the orbital apex.

RESUMO A descompressão orbitária é uma cirurgia amplamente empregada para correção da proptose em casos cosméticos e funcionais da orbitopatia de Graves. Os principais efeitos colaterais induzidos pela descompressão são olho seco, diplopia e parestesias. Amaurose pós descompressão é uma complicação extremamente rara e cujos mecanismos são pouco discutidos na literatura. Considerando o efeito devastador representado pela perda visual e a escassez de relatos dessa complicação, os autores apresentam dois relatos de amaurose após descompressão orbitária. Nos dois casos a perda visual ocorreu devido a sangramento de pequena monta no ápice orbitário.

Relationship between the number of glaucoma medications, ocular surface disorder, and treatment adherence / Relação entre o número de medicamentos para glaucoma, distúrbio da superfície ocular e adesão ao tratamento

ABSTRACT Purpose: To determine the relationship of ocular surface disease, the number of glaucoma medications prescribed and its influence on treatment adherence. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, demographic data of patients with glaucoma were collected, and patients completed the ocular surface disease index questionnaire and the glaucoma treatment compliance assessment tool. Ocular surface parameters were assessed by "Keratograph 5M." Patients were stratified into two groups according to the amount of prescribed ocular hypotensive eye drops (Group 1, one or two classes of medications; Group 2, three or four classes) Results: In total, 27 eyes of 27 patients with glaucoma were included: 17 using 1 or 2 topical medications (Group 1) and 10 eyes using 3 or 4 classes (Group 2). For the Keratograph assessment, patients using ≥3 medications had significantly smaller tear meniscus height (0.27 ± 0.10 vs. 0.43 ± 0.22; p=0.037). The analysis of Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire showed higher scores among the groups using more hypotensive eye drops (18.67 ± 13.53 vs. 38.82 ± 19.72; p=0.004). Regarding the glaucoma treatment compliance assessment tool, Group 2 had worse scores in components of forgetfulness (p=0.027) and barriers due to lack of drops (p=0.031). Conclusion: Patients with glaucoma using more hypotensive eye drops had worse tear meniscus height and ocular surface disease index scores than those using fewer topical medications. Patients using three or four drug classes had worse predictors of glaucoma adherence. Despite worse ocular surface disease results, no significant difference in self-reported side effects was found.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar a relação entre doença da superfície ocular (OSD), número de medicamentos prescritos para o glaucoma, e como isso influencia na adesão ao tratamento. Métodos: Neste estudo transversal, pacientes com glaucoma foram submetidos à coleta de dados demográficos, preenchimento do questionário Ocular Surface Disease Index e do Glaucoma Treatment Compliance Assessment Tool. Os parâmetros da superfície ocular foram avaliados pelo "Keratograph 5M". Indivíduos foram estratificados em 2 grupos de acordo com a quantidade de colírios hipotensores oculares prescritos (Grupo 1: uma ou duas classes de medicamentos; Grupo 2: três ou quatro classes). Resultados: No total, 27 olhos de 27 pacientes com glaucoma foram incluídos: 17 usando 1 ou 2 medicamentos tópicos (Grupo 1) e 10 olhos usando 3 ou 4 classes (Grupo 2). Na avaliação do Keratograph, os pacientes em uso de 3 ou mais medicamentos apresentaram altura do menisco lacrimal significativamente menor (0,27 ± 0,10 vs. 0,43 ± 0,22; p=0,037). Análise do questionário OSDI mostrou escores mais altos entre o grupo que usou mais colírios hipotensores (18,67 ± 13,53 vs. 38,82 ± 19,72; p=0,004). Em relação ao Glaucoma Treatment Compliance Assessment Tool, o Grupo 2 apresentou piores escores nos componentes de esquecimento (p=0,027) e barreiras por falta de colírios (p=0,031). Conclusão: O estudo demonstrou que pacientes com glaucoma usando mais colírios hipotensivos apresentaram piores escores de altura do menisco lacrimal e Ocular Surface Disease Index, em comparação com aqueles que usaram menos medicamentos tópicos. Pacientes em uso de 3 ou 4 classes de colírios tiveram piores preditores de adesão ao glaucoma. Apesar dos piores resultados de doença da superfície ocular, não houve diferença significativa nos efeitos colaterais relatados.

Swept-source optical coherence tomography detects anterior-chamber changes in patients with angle-closure after laser peripheral iridotomy / Tomografia de coerência óptica swept-source detecta alterações na câmara anterior em pacientes com fechamento angular após iridotomia

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to compare an teriorchamber parameters acquired by a swept-source anteriorsegment optical coherence tomography before and after laser peripheral iridotomy. Methods: This study prospectively evaluated 14 patients with primary-angle closure and six patients with primary-angle closure glaucoma. Gonioscopy and anterior-segment optical coherence tomography using the DRI OCT Triton® were performed before and after laser peripheral iridotomy. Anterior-segment optical coherence tomography parameters were studied using scleral spur as reference: angle opening distance at 250, 500, and 750 µm, trabecular-iris space at 500 µm, trabecular-iris angle, trabecular-iris contact length, and iris curvature. Results: Anterior-segment optical coherence tomography identified 61% of the patients with two or more quadrants closed. Gonioscopy identified more closed angles than anterior-segment optical coherence tomography before laser peripheral iridotomy. In angle parameters, only the angle opening distance of 250 µm at the nasal quadrant was not significantly increased after laser peripheral iridotomy. The iris curvature and trabecular-iris contact length showed a significant reduction induced by the laser procedure. Even in eyes in which gonioscopy did not identify angular widening after laser peripheral iridotomy (n=7), the angle opening distance of 750 µm increased (nasal, 0.15 ± 0.10 mm to 0.27 ± 0.16 mm, p=0.01; temporal, 0.14 ± 0.11 mm to 0.25 ± 0.12 mm, p=0.001) and the iris curvature decreased (nasal, 0.25 ± 0.04 mm vs. 0.11 ± 0.07 mm, p=0.02; temporal, 0.25 ± 0.07 mm vs. 0.14 ± 0.08 mm, p=0.007). Conclusions: Anterior-chamber changes induced by laser peripheral iridotomy could be quantitatively evaluated and documented by DRI OCT Triton®

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar os parâmetros de câmara anterior obtidos através da tomografia de coerência óptica de segmento anterior antes e após a iridectomia periférica a laser. Métodos: Quatorze pacientes com fechamento angular primário e seis com glaucoma primário de ângulo fechado foram prospectivamente avaliados neste estudo. Gonioscopia e tomografia de coerência óptica de segmento anterior com DRI OCT Triton® foram realizadas antes e após a iridectomia periférica a laser. Os seguintes parâmetros de tomografia de coerência óptica de segmento anterior, baseados na localização do esporão escleral, foram avaliados: ângulo de abertura angular a 250 µm, 500 µm e 750 µm, área do espaço entre a íris e o trabeculado a 500 µm, ângulo entre a íris e o trabeculado, extensão do contato entre a íris e o trabeculado e curvatura da íris. Resultados: A tomografia de coerência óptica de segmento anterior identificou 61% dos indivíduos com dois ou mais quadrantes fechados. A gonioscopia identificou mais quadrantes com ângulo fechado do que tomografia de coerência óptica de segmento anterior antes da iridectomia periférica a laser. Quanto aos parâmetros angulares, apenas ângulo de abertura angular a 250 µm no quadrante nasal não aumentou significativamente após a iridectomia periférica a laser. A curvatura da íris e a extensão do contato entre a íris e o trabeculado apresentaram redução significativa induzida pelo procedimento a laser. Mesmo nos olhos em que a gonioscopia não identificou aumento da amplitude angular após iridectomia periférica a laser (n=7), ângulo de abertura angular a 750 µm aumentou (nasal: 0,15 ± 0,10 mm para 0,27 ± 0,16 mm, p=0,01; temporal: 0,14 ± 0,11 mm para 0,25 ± 0,12 mm, p=0,001), e ICURVE diminuiu (nasal: 0,25 ± 0,04 mm vs. 0,11 ± 0,07 mm, p=0,02; temporal: 0,25 ± 0,07 mm vs. 0,14 ± 0,08 mm, p=0,007). Conclusões: As alterações na câmara anterior induzidas pelo iridectomia periférica a laser puderam ser avaliadas quantitativamente e documentadas pelo DRI OCT Triton®.

The decline of measles antibody titers in previously vaccinated adults: a cross-sectional analysis

ABSTRACT The global reemergence of measles in 2018-2019 reinforces the relevance of high-coverage immunization to maintain the disease elimination. During an outbreak in the Sao Paulo State in 2019, several measles cases were reported in individuals who were adequately vaccinated according to the current immunization schedule recommends. This study aimed to assess measles IgG antibody seropositivity and titers in previously vaccinated adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted at CRIE-HC-FMUSP (Sao Paulo, Brazil) in 2019. It included healthy adults who had received two or more Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccines (MMR) and excluded individuals with immunocompromising conditions. Measles IgG antibodies were measured and compared by ELISA (Euroimmun®) and chemiluminescence (LIASON®). The association of seropositivity and titers with variables of interest (age, sex, profession, previous measles, number of measles-containing vaccine doses, interval between MMR doses, and time elapsed since the last MMR dose) was analyzed. A total of 162 participants were evaluated, predominantly young (median age 30 years), women (69.8%) and healthcare professionals (61.7%). The median interval between MMR doses was 13.2 years, and the median time since the last dose was 10.4 years. The seropositivity rate was 32.7% by ELISA and 75.3% by CLIA, and a strong positive correlation was found between the tests. Multivariate analyses revealed that age and time since the last dose were independently associated with positivity. Despite being a single-center evaluation, our results suggest that measles seropositivity may be lower than expected in adequately immunized adults. Seropositivity was higher among older individuals and those with a shorter time since the last MMR vaccine dose.

Development and validation of equation for predicting body composition in elderly women / Desarrollo y validación de ecuaciones para la predicción de la composición corporal en ancianas / Desenvolvimento e validação de equações para predição da composição corporal em idosas

ABSTRACT Introduction: Body composition assessment (BCA) using anthropometric measurements (AM) is used to monitor the nutritional and health status of the elderly. As predictor variables, MAs must be valid, practical, and quick, as they favor adherence and avoid possible resistance and embarrassment on the part of those being assessed and being minimally invasive. Objective: To develop and validate equations using accessible and minimally invasive anthropometric measurements for BCA in elderly women. Methods: 100 women (68.1±6.15 years) were randomly assigned to two groups: validation (n=40; 68.1±6.15 years); and estimation (n=60; 68.4±6.70 years). DXA was selected as the criterion measure, and MAs (body mass, height, skinfolds, circumferences) were selected as predictor variables. Means were compared using the paired Student's t-test; correlations were verified using Pearson's r-test; equations using Multiple Linear Regression. The level of agreement between the groups' results was checked using the Bland-Altman technique. Results: Two equations developed and tested (E3 and E4) met the validation criteria as they showed adequate correlation coefficients (E3: r=0.73; E4: r=0.70), low constant errors (E3: EC= −0.56; E4: EC=-0.90), total error (E3: ET=3.22; E4: ET=3.06) lower than the Standard Error of Estimate (E3: EPE=3.24; E4: EPE=3.21), indicating no statistically significant difference between the two BCA techniques observed (p>0.05). The Bland-Altman technique showed good agreement between the results of the two techniques. Conclusion: Two were validated: E3 (%Gdxa= −41.556 + 4.041(BMI) + 0.165(DcCox) − 0.440(CircCox) + 0.269(CircQuad) − 0.053(BMI)²); and E4 (%GdxaE4= 15.329 + 1.044(BMI) −1.055(CircAbra) + 0.282(CircQuad) + 0.164(DcCox) − 0.262(CircCox)). Notably, the small number of measurements were located in areas of the body that are easily accessible and have little body exposure, which minimizes possible embarrassment and favors adherence by the elderly. Level of Evidence IV; Correlational study to build a predictive equation.

RESUMEN Introducción: La evaluación de la composición corporal (ECC) mediante medidas antropométricas (MA) se utiliza para monitorizar el estado nutricional y de salud de las personas mayores. Las MA, como variables predictoras, deben ser válidas, prácticas y rápidas, ya que favorecen la adherencia y evitan posibles resistencias y vergüenzas por parte de los evaluados, además de ser mínimamente invasivas. Objetivo: Desarrollar y validar ecuaciones utilizando medidas antropométricas de fácil acceso y mínimamente invasivas para la ECC en mujeres de edad avanzada. Métodos: 100 mujeres (68,1±6,15 años) asignadas aleatoriamente a dos grupos: validación (n=40; 68,1±6,15 años); estimación (n=60; 68,4±6,70 años). Se seleccionó la DXA como medida criterio, y las MA (masa corporal, estatura, pliegues cutáneos, circunferencias) como variables predictoras. Las medias se compararon mediante la prueba t de Student emparejada; las correlaciones se comprobaron mediante la prueba r de Pearson; las ecuaciones mediante Regresión Lineal Múltiple. El nivel de concordancia entre los resultados de los grupos se comprobó mediante la técnica de Bland-Altman. Resultados: Dos ecuaciones desarrolladas y probadas (E3 y E4) cumplieron los criterios de validación, ya que mostraron coeficientes de correlación adecuados (E3: r=0,73; E4: r=0,70), errores constantes bajos (E3: EC= −0,56; E4: EC=-0,90), error total (E3: ET=3,22; E4: ET=3,06) inferior al error estándar de estimación (E3: EPE=3,24; E4: EPE=3,21), lo que indica que no se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las dos técnicas de ECC (p>0,05). La técnica de Bland-Altman mostró una buena concordancia entre los resultados de las dos técnicas. Conclusión: Se validaron dos: E3 (%Gdxa= −41,556 + 4,041(IMC) + 0,165(DcCox) − 0,440(CircCox) + 0,269(CircQuad) − 0,053(IMC)²); y E4 (%GdxaE4= 15,329 + 1,044(IMC) −1,055(CircAbra) + 0,282(CircQuad) + 0,164(DcCox) − 0,262(CircCox)). Es de destacar que el reducido número de mediciones se localizaron en zonas del cuerpo de fácil acceso y con poca exposición corporal, lo que minimiza posibles situaciones embarazosas y favorece la adherencia por parte de los ancianos. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Estudio correlacional para construir una ecuación predictiva.

RESUMO Introdução: A avaliação da composição corporal (ACC) com auxílio das medidas antropométricas (MA) é utilizado no acompanhamento do estado nutricional e de saúde das populações idosas. As MAs como variáveis preditoras, devem ser válidas, práticas e rápidas, pois favorecem a adesão e evitam possíveis resistências e constrangimento das avaliadas, além de minimamente invasivas. Objetivo: Desenvolver e validar equações utilizando medidas antropométricas de fácil acesso e minimamente invasivas, para ACC de idosas. Métodos: 100 mulheres (68,1±6,15 anos) distribuídas aleatoriamente por dois grupos: validação (n=40; 68,1±6,15 anos); estimativa (n=60; 68,4±6,70 anos). Como medida critério selecionou-se a DXA, como variáveis preditoras as MAs (massa corporal, estatura, dobras cutâneas, circunferências). As médias foram comparadas com o teste t de Student pareado; as correlações verificadas com o teste r Pearson; as equações com a Regressão Linear Múltipla. O nível de concordância entre os resultados dos grupos foi verificado com a técnica Bland-Altman. Resultados: Duas equações desenvolvidas e testadas (E3 e E4) atenderam aos critérios de validação, pois, apresentaram coeficientes de correlação adequados (E3: r=0,73; E4: r=0,70), erros constantes baixos (E3: EC= −0,56; E4: EC=-0,90), erro total (E3: ET=3,22; E4: ET=3,06) menores que o Erro Padrão de Estimativa (E3: EPE=3,24; E4: EPE=3,21), indicando não existir diferença estatisticamente significativa entre as duas técnicas de ACC observadas (p>0,05). A técnica Bland-Altman demonstrou boa concordância entre os resultados das duas técnicas. Conclusão: Duas equações foram validadas: E3 (%Gdxa= −41,556 + 4,041(IMC) + 0,165(DcCox) - 0,440(CircCox) + 0,269(CircQuad) - 0,053(IMC)²); e E4 (%GdxaE4= 15,329 + 1,044(IMC) −1,055(CircAbra) + 0,282(CircQuad) + 0,164(DcCox) - 0,262(CircCox)). Destaca-se o fato do reduzido número de medidas situarem-se em áreas corporais de fácil acesso e de pouca exposição corporal, que minimizam possíveis constrangimentos e favorecem a adesão das idosas. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudo correlacional para construção de equação preditiva.

Corneal reshaping: an experiment with a type I collagen-based vitrigel for remodeling porcine corneas / Remodelamento corneano: relato de um experimento com um vitrigel a base de colágeno tipo I para remodelamento de córneas porcinas

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to report an experiment designed to determine anatomical changes in porcine corneas following placement of a novel polymer implant into the cornea. Methods: An ex vivo porcine eye model was used. A novel type I collagen-based vitrigel implant (6 mm in diameter) was shaped with an excimer laser on the posterior surface to create three planoconcave shapes. Implants were inserted into a manually dissected stromal pocket at a depth of approximately 200 μm. Three treatment groups were defined: group A (n=3), maximal ablation depth 70 μm; Group B (n=3), maximal ablation depth 64 μm; and group C (n=3), maximal ablation depth 104 μm, with a central hole. A control group (D, n=3) was included, in which a stromal pocket was created but biomaterial was not inserted. Eyes were evaluated by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and corneal tomography. Results: Corneal tomography showed a trend for a decreased mean keratometry in all four groups. Optical coherence tomography showed corneas with implants placed within the anterior stroma and visible flattening, whereas the corneas in the control group did not qualitatively change shape. Conclusions: The novel planoconcave biomaterial implant described herein could reshape the cornea in an ex vivo model, resulting in the flattening of the cornea. Further studies are needed using in vivo animal models to confirm such findings.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar um experimento projetado para determinar alterações anatômicas em córneas porcinas após a colocação de um novo implante de polímero na córnea. Métodos: Foi utilizado olho de porco ex vivo. Um novo agente modelador biocompatível, de colágeno tipo 1, com 6mm de diâmetro foi moldado com excimer laser em sua face posterior, para criar três formatos planocôncavos. Os implantes foram inseridos dentro de um bolsão, dissecado manualmente, a 200 micrômetros (μm). Foram definidos três grupos de tratamento: grupo A (n=3), teve a profundidade máxima de ablação de 70 μm; o grupo B (n=3), profundidade máxima de ablação de 64 μm; e o grupo C (n=3), profundidade máxima de ablação de 104 μm, com buraco central. O grupo controle, D (n=3), foi incluído, com a criação do bolsão estromal, porém sem inserir o material. A avaliação desses olhos foi realizada por tomografia de coerência óptica (OCT) e por tomografia corneana. Resultados: A tomografia corneana mostrou uma tendência para diminuição da ceratometria média em todos os 4 grupos. A tomografia de coerência óptica mostrou córneas com implantes localizados no estroma anterior e aplanamento visível, enquanto as córneas não mudaram qualitativamente o formato no grupo controle. Conclusões: O novo implante de biomaterial planocôncavo descrito aqui foi capaz de remodelar a córnea em modelo de animal ex vivo, resultando no aplanamento corneano. Novos estudos são necessários usando modelos animais in vivo para confirmar tais achados.

Toxoplasmosis outbreak in São Paulo, Brazil: Epidemiology and visual outcome

ABSTRACT Purpose: To describe a 2019 acute toxoplasmosis outbreak in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, and to evaluate the laboratory serological profile for toxoplasmosis for three consecutive years. The ophthalmological manifestations of the patients involved in the outbreak were also studied. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of a toxoplasmosis outbreak in São Paulo, Brazil, between February and May 2019. Epidemiological data were described, as were the observed ocular manifestations. As part of this study the number of patients with positive IgM toxoplasmosis serology was obtained from a large laboratory network (DASA) for three consecutive years, including the year of the outbreak (2018, 2019, 2020). Results: Eighty-three individuals were identified in the outbreak and two clusters were studied. The clinical picture of at least 77% of the patients, the epidemiological analysis, and the short incubation period (5-8 days) suggested contamination by oocysts. Serological laboratory data analysis revealed an increase of positive toxoplasmosis IgM in 2019 of 73% compared to the previous year. Ophthalmological examination revealed that at least 4.8% of the patients developed toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis, none of whom had been treated during the acute systemic disease. Conclusion: Our findings indicate vegetable contamination as the possible source of this outbreak, a high prevalence of toxoplasmosis in São Paulo during the outbreak period, and a drop in the number of tests during the COVID-19 pandemic. Retinochoroiditis was observed in at least 4.8% of the cases. We confirm the need to implement effective means for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. This may involve raising awareness among the population of the importance of vegetable hygiene, and improved quality control of food and water.

Consensus from the Brazilian Academy of Neurology for the diagnosis, genetic counseling, and use of disease-modifying therapies in 5q spinal muscular atrophy / Consenso da Academia Brasileira de Neurologia para diagnóstico, aconselhamento genético e uso de terapias modificadoras na atrofia muscular espinhal 5q

Abstract Spinal muscular atrophy linked to chromosome 5 (SMA-5q) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by mutations in the SMN1. SMA-5q is characterized by progressive degeneration of the spinal cord and bulbar motor neurons, causing severe motor and respiratory impairment with reduced survival, especially in its more severe clinical forms. In recent years, highly effective disease-modifying therapies have emerged, either acting by regulating the splicing of exon 7 of the SMN2 gene or adding a copy of the SMN1 gene through gene therapy, providing a drastic change in the natural history of the disease. In this way, developing therapeutic guides and expert consensus becomes essential to direct the use of these therapies in clinical practice. This consensus, prepared by Brazilian experts, aimed to review the main available disease-modifying therapies, critically analyze the results of clinical studies, and provide recommendations for their use in clinical practice for patients with SMA-5q. This consensus also addresses aspects related to diagnosis, genetic counseling, and follow-up of patients under drug treatment. Thus, this consensus provides valuable information regarding the current management of SMA-5q, helping therapeutic decisions in clinical practice and promoting additional gains in outcomes.

Resumo Atrofia muscular espinhal ligada ao cromossomo 5 (AME-5q) é uma doença genética de herança autossômica recessiva causada por mutações no gene SMN1. A AME-5q cursa com degeneração progressiva dos motoneurônios medulares e bulbares, acarretando grave comprometimento motor e respiratório com redução da sobrevida, especialmente nas suas formas clínicas mais graves. Nos últimos anos, terapias modificadoras da doença altamente eficazes, ou que atuam regulando o splicing do exon 7 do gene SMN2 ou adicionando uma cópia do gene SMN1 via terapia gênica, têm surgido, proporcionando uma mudança drástica na história natural da doença. Dessa forma, o desenvolvimento de guias terapêuticos e de consensos de especialistas torna-se importante no sentido de direcionar o uso dessas terapias na prática clínica. Este consenso, preparado por especialistas brasileiros, teve como objetivos revisar as principais terapias modificadoras de doença disponíveis, analisar criticamente os resultados dos estudos clínicos dessas terapias e prover recomendações para seu uso na prática clínica para pacientes com AME-5q. Aspectos relativos ao diagnóstico, aconselhamento genético e seguimento dos pacientes em uso das terapias também são abordados nesse consenso. Assim, esse consenso promove valiosas informações a respeito do manejo atual da AME-5q auxiliando decisões terapêuticas na prática clínica e promovendo ganhos adicionais nos desfechos finais.

National survey regarding obstetricians' perspective of obstetric emergencies in Brazil

Abstract Introduction The maternal mortality rate in developing countries, such as Brazil, has significantly increased since 2020. Obstetric Emergencies (OE) account for 72.5% of these deaths. A national survey was conducted in Brazil to evaluate how gynecologists and obstetricians deal with OE and identify the main difficulties regarding theoretical/practical knowledge and structural resources. Methods An electronic questionnaire assessing resource availability, health teams, institutional protocols, and provision of OE training courses was completed by Brazilian obstetricians. Results More than 90 % of the questionnaire respondents reported treating a pregnant and/or puerperal patient with severe morbidity and that their health network has human resources, trained professionals, and structural resources required for this type of care. However, few respondents participate in continuing education programs (36 %) or specific training for the medical team (61.41 %). The implementation rates of obstetric risk identification protocols (33.09 %), a rapid response team (46.54 %), and boxes and emergency cart assembly teams (71.68 %) were determined. Conclusion A high Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) may be related to disorganized healthcare systems, low implementation of risk classification protocols for the care of severe maternal and fetal conditions, and lack of access to continued/specific training programs. The Brazilian MMR is multifactorial. According to obstetricians, Brazilian health services include care teams, essential medications, obstetric centers, and clinical analysis laboratories, though they lack systematized processes and permanent professional training for qualified care of OE.