Política pública en cuidados paliativos y sus implicaciones sobre servicios, opioides y educación en Colombia / Public policy on palliative care and its implications for services, opioids, and education in Colombia

Introducción: El desarrollo de cuidados paliativos exige la intervención de múltiples dimensiones de salud pública, incluyendo la disponibilidad de servicios de salud, medicamentos esenciales y programas educativos. En Colombia se han realizado diversos cambios en las políticas públicas para promover la atención de personas con necesidades paliativas. Objetivo: Evaluar empíricamente las políticas públicas, existentes en cuidados paliativos y sus implicaciones sobre disponibilidad de servicios, opioides y programas educativos en los años 2010 ­ 2019 en Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Se diseñó un estudio mixto exploratorio secuencial en tres fases: identificación de indicadores empíricos de políticas nacionales, diagnostico situacional de cuidados paliativos y evaluación cualitativa de los resultados de la implementación de políticas en siete nodos territoriales de Colombia. Resultados: Se revisaron siete normas obteniendo 12 indicadores empíricos para la evaluación, seis de ellos no contaban con fuentes de información. El diagnostico nacional evidencia un aumento gradual de servicios y consumo de opioides en los años hito del desarrollo de políticas. 44 profesionales de cuidados paliativos perciben un efecto positivo de las políticas públicas en el consumo de opioides y bajos resultados para el dominio de servicios y educación Conclusiones: Existe una relación positiva entre políticas públicas y consumo de opioides, una relación cuantitativa positiva para servicios de cuidados paliativos y una relación cuanticualitativa negativa para programas educativos, lo que denota un bajo estatus operativo de las políticas construidas para mejorar el dolor y sufrimiento asociado a la enfermedad crónica avanzada.

Introduction: Palliative care development requires the intervention of multiple dimensions of public health, including the availability of health services, essential medicines, and educational programs. In Colombia, several changes have been made in public policy to promote the care of people with palliative needs. Objective: To empirically evaluate existing public policies on palliative care and their implications for the availability of services, opioids, and educational programs during the years 2010 to 2019 in Colombia. Materials and methods: A mixed sequential exploratory study was designed in three phases: identification of empirical indicators of national policies, palliative care situational diagnosis, and qualitative assessment of the results of policy implementation in seven regional nodes in Colombia. Results: Seven standards were reviewed, yielding 12 empirical indicators for assessment, six of which had no sources of information. The national diagnosis shows a gradual increase in services and opioid use during the landmark years of policy development. Forty-four palliative care professionals perceive a positive effect of public policy on opioid use and low outcomes for service and education domains. Conclusions: There is a positive relationship between public policy and opioid use, a positive quantitative relationship with palliative care services, and a negative quantitative-qualitative relationship with educational programs. This indicates a low operational status of policies designed to alleviate the pain and suffering associated with advanced chronic diseases.

Introdução: O desenvolvimento dos cuidados paliativos requer a intervenção de múltiplas dimensões da saúde pública, incluindo a disponibilidade de serviços de saúde, medicamentos essenciais e programas educativos. Na Colômbia, várias mudanças foram feitas nas políticas públicas para promover o cuidado de pessoas com necessidades paliativas. Objetivo: Avaliar empiricamente as políticas públicas existentes em cuidados paliativos e suas implicações na disponibilidade de serviços, opioides e programas educacionais nos anos 2010 - 2019 na Colômbia. Materiais e métodos: Desenhou-se um estudo misto exploratório sequencial em três fases: identificação de indicadores empíricos de políticas nacionais, diagnóstico situacional de cuidados paliativos e avaliação qualitativa dos resultados da implementação de políticas em sete nodos territoriais da Colômbia. Resultados: Sete normas foram revisadas, obtendo-se 12 indicadores empíricos para avaliação, seis delas não possuíam fontes de informação. O diagnóstico nacional mostra um aumento gradual nos serviços e consumo de opioides nos anos marcantes do desenvolvimento de políticas. 44 profissionais de cuidados paliativos percebem efeito positivo das políticas públicas sobre o consumo de opioides e resultados baixos para o domínio serviços e educação Conclusões: Existe relação positiva entre políticas públicas e consumo de opioides, relação quantitativa positiva para serviços de cuidados paliativos e negativa relação quantitativo-qualitativa para programas educativos, o que denota um baixo status operacional das políticas destinadas a melhorar a dor e o sofrimento associados à doença crônica avançada.

Proceso de atención en enfermería basado en mapa de cuidados en persona mayor reintervenida quirúrgicamente por reemplazo de cadera. Reporte de un caso

El proceso de atención en enfermería (PAE) es un método sistemático y organizado que requiere de un entrenamiento específico, tener conocimientos y habilidades prácticas que proporcionan las herramientas para brindar cuidado abordando las dimensiones de forma holística a partir de una interacción directa con el paciente, la familia y el entorno social. Se presenta el PAE de una persona mayor, femenina, de 65 años de edad, con pluripatologías: síndrome purpúrico, monoparesia de miembro inferior derecho y síndrome convulsivo, reintervenida quirúrgicamente de un reemplazo de cadera derecha. Se plantea el PAE y sus cinco etapas: valoración, diagnóstico, planeación, ejecución y evaluación; siguiendo la valoración por dominios. El plan de cuidados se realiza con el enfoque de mapa de cuidados en la situación quirúrgica, diagnóstico NANDA International, lnc. La evaluación de intervenciones NIC (Nursing Interventions Classification) y resultados NOC (Nursing Outcomes Classification).

The Nursing Care Process (NCP) is a systematic and organized method that requires specific training, knowledge and practical skills that provide the tools needed to provide care by addressing the dimensions holistically from direct interaction with the patient, the family and social environment. Te NCP of a 65-year-old female elderly person with multiple pathologies; purpuric syndrome, right lower limb monoparesis and convulsive syndrome, who underwent surgery for a right hip replacement is presented. The Nursing Care Process (NCP) and its five stages are proposed: assessment, diagnosis, Outcomes/ Planning, Implementation and evaluation; following the valuation by domains. The care plan was carried out with the care map approach, NANDA Internacional Inc. Te evaluation of NIC (Nursing Interventions Classification) interventions and NOC (Nursing Outcomes Classification) results.

Real-world nailfold videocapillaroscopy in a referral centre in north-western Colombia: A real-life cohort

Introduction: Nailfold videocapillaroscopy is a non-invasive tool for the assessment of peripheral microcirculation, the main indication is the study of Raynaud's phenomenon, poorly standardized outside of this context. There is no clear information in real-life about the rea-sons for referral, the presence of clinical findings of autoimmune diseases, the frequency of patterns of autoantibodies, and specific capillaroscopic findings. Objective: The purpose of this survey is to describe the sociodemographic, clinical, paraclinical, and angioscopy findings of a cohort of subjects referred to a capillaroscopy service in North-western Colombia. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, from 2015 to 2018. Categorical variables were expressed in frequency and percentage and quantitative variables in mean and standard deviation or median with interquartile range, depending on the distribution of the data. Results: A total of 318 capillaroscopies were performed for the first time. The main referral reason was Raynaud's phenomenon (n = 134; 42.1%). The most frequent baseline capillaroscopic pattern found was normal (n = 123; 38.7%). Of the 12 capillaroscopies that presented a non-specific pattern at a 6-month follow-up, only one (8.3%) progressed to a scleroderma pattern. In the subjects with systemic sclerosis, the most frequent clinical finding was sclerodactyly (n = 34; 37.8%), and 42/44 individuals (95.4%) had positive antinuclear antibodies; the most frequent pattern was centromere (n = 27; 64.3%) Conclusions: In a real-world setting, the main referral reason for capillaroscopy was Raynaud's phenomenon; more than a third of the subjects had normal capillaroscopic findings. Sclerodactyly was the most frequent clinical finding in patients with scleroderma capillaroscopic pattern.

Introducción: La videocapilaroscopia del lecho ungular es una herramienta no invasiva para la evaluación de la microcirculación periférica; la indicación principal es el estudio del fenómeno de Raynaud. Luego de una revisión de la literatura, no hay información clara sobre los motivos de remisión, presencia de hallazgos clínicos de enfermedades autoinmunes, frecuencia de patrones de autoanticuerpos y hallazgos capilaroscópicos específicos. Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos sociodemográficos, clínicos, paraclínicos y capilaroscópicos de sujetos remitidos a un servicio de capilaroscopia en el noroccidente colombiano. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 2015 a 2018. Las variables categóricas se expresaron en frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes, y las variables cuantitativas en media y desviación estándar o mediana con rango intercuartílico, dependiendo de la distribución de los datos. Resultados: Se realizaron 318 capilaroscopias por primera vez. El principal motivo de remisión fue el fenómeno de Raynaud (n = 134; 42,1%). El patrón capilaroscópico basal más frecuente fue el normal (n = 123; 38,7%). De las 12 capilaroscopias que presentaron un patrón no específico en un seguimiento de seis meses, solo una (8,3%) progresó a un patrón de esclerodermia. En los sujetos con esclerosis sistémica, el hallazgo clínico más frecuente fue la esclerodactilia (n = 34; 37,8%), y 42/44 individuos (95,4%) tenían anticuerpos antinucleares positivos; el patrón más frecuente fue el centromérico (n = 27; 64,3%). Conclusiones: La razón principal de remisión para realizar una capilaroscopia fue el fenómeno de Raynaud; más de un tercio de los sujetos tenían hallazgos capilaroscópicos normales. La esclerodactilia fue el hallazgo clínico más frecuente en pacientes con patrón capilaroscópico de esclerodermia.

Comparison of the treatment outcomes: percent change in the sum of longest diameters (RECIST) and percent change of the lesion with the highest SUL (PERCIST) between standard therapy plus Lu-177 PSMA ligand therapy and standard therapy alone among patients with prostatic cancer status-post castration using Ga-18 PET-CT as an outcome indicator

Introduction@#Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among Filipino males. Ga-68 PSMA PET-CT and Lu-177 PRLT have been introduced in the Philippines for the diagnostics and therapy of prostate cancer. @*Objective@#The aim of this study is to compare treatment outcomes of standard therapy plus Lu-177 PSMA radioligand therapy and standard therapy alone among patients with prostatic cancer status-post castration using Ga-68 PET-CT as an outcome indicator. @*Methodology@#This is an ambispective cohort study on Ga-68 PSMA PET-CT scans performed between January 1, 2018 and July 31, 2021. Serum PSA data taken within one month of the PET-CT scans were also collected when available. The PET-CT images were reviewed by a radiologist for RECIST response, and by a nuclear medicine physician for PERCIST response . @*Results@#A total of 11 participants were included in the study. Six participants (55.5%) received standard therapy, while five participants (45.5%) received Lu-177 PSMA radioligand therapy plus standard therapy. There was no significant difference in the baseline and follow-up CT as shown by all p values > 0.05. A trend towards higher number of participants with non-complete/non-progressive RECIST response was noted in the control group than the treatment group, as well as higher number of participants with progressive or stable disease using the PERCIST response. @*Conclusion@#There were no significant differences noted in the clinical outcomes of participants who received Lu-177 PRLT and those with standard therapy alone. A trend towards decreasing serum PSA, CT and PET measurements were noted among patients given Lu-177 PRLT than those with standard therapy.

HyperCKemia-MB due to macroCK type 1: Case report

HyperCKemia is a rare condition characterized by a persistent increase in serum creatine kinase (CK) levels or some isoenzymes. Usually, there are no clinical, electromyography or histological manifestations, which involves a challenge at the time of diagnosis. The patient in question showed no characteristic signs or symptoms, apart from fatigue and post-exercise myalgia. Assessment was performed by rheumatology and endocrinology, determination of total CK and MB fraction in blood, and electromyography and protein electrophoresis were requested as part of the approach. This case report is considered as novel, interesting, and useful for clinical practice as few similar ones were found in the scientific literature. The difficult etiological diagnosis of this entity, and the algorithm used to arrive at it, are all presented. It is concluded that in those patients with hyperCKemia of unknown etiology, this diagnosis should be kept in mind, and be confirmed by performing a CK electrophoresis.

La hiperCKemia es una condición poco frecuente caracterizada por un aumento persistente de los niveles de creatina quinasa (CK) sérica o de algunas isoenzimas, sin que suelan presentarse manifestaciones clínicas, electromiográficas o histológicas, lo cual implica un desafío a la hora del diagnóstico. El paciente cuyo caso se presenta aquí no mostró signos o síntomas característicos, únicamente fatiga y mialgias posteriores al ejercicio. Se llevó a cabo valoración por reumatología y endocrinología, determinación de CK total y fracción MB en sangre; además, se solicitó electromiografía y electroforesis de proteínas como parte del abordaje. Consideramos que este reporte de caso es novedoso, interesante y de utilidad para la práctica clínica pues se encuentran pocos similares en la literatura científica; adicionalmente, se pone en evidencia el difícil diagnóstico etiológico de esta entidad, así como el algoritmo utilizado para llegar a ella. Se concluye que este diagnóstico debe tenerse en mente en aquellos pacientes con hiperCKemia de etiología desconocida, y para confirmarlo es necesario hacer una electroforesis de CK.

Diagnóstico imagenológico de estenosis hipertrófica del píloro en 119 pacientes durante quince años / Imaging diagnosis of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in 119 patients during fifteen years / Diagnóstico por imagem de estenose de pilópio hipertrófico em 119 pacientes ao longo de quinze anos

RESUMEN La estenosis hipertrófica del píloro es la obstrucción parcial o completa de la luz del píloro, su musculatura se halla tan fuertemente engrosada, que el vaciamiento gástrico se dificulta. Aunque el diagnóstico es básicamente clínico, los estudios imagenológicos son decisivos para confirmar la enfermedad. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo en 119 pacientes con manifestaciones clínicas de estenosis hipertrófica del píloro, cuyo diagnóstico se confirmó mediante estudios de imágenes, en el Hospital Pediátrico Universitario "William Soler" desde el año 2000 al 2015. Las medidas ecográficas fueron la longitud del canal pilórico ≥ 16mm en 95,8%, la pared del músculo pilórico en 88,2% y el diámetro de la oliva pilórica en el 68,1 % de los pacientes. En 90 niños se hizo el diagnóstico con la ecografía de abdomen inicial. A los 29 restantes se les realizó radiografía de esófago, estómago y duodeno bajo visión fluoroscópica, observando en el 100% el signo de la cuerda, en 72,4% dilatación gástrica y en 58,6% retardo en la evacuación del estómago. Con una segunda ecografía de abdomen positiva. Corroborándose en todos el diagnóstico en el acto quirúrgico. La ecografía de abdomen fue un medio diagnóstico de alta positividad y sensibilidad, con la longitud del canal pilórico como principal medida ecográfica y el signo de la cuerda el mayor hallazgo radiológico.

ABSTRACT Hypertrophic stenosis of the pylorus is the partial or complete obstruction of the pylorus lumen, its muscles are so strongly thickened that gastric emptying is difficult. Although the diagnosis is basically clinical, imaging studies are decisive to confirm the disease. A retrospective descriptive study was carried out in 119 patients with clinical manifestations of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, whose diagnosis was confirmed by imaging studies, at the "William Soler" University Pediatric Hospital from 2000 to 2015. The ultrasound measurements were the length of the pyloric channel ≥ 16mm in 95.8%, the wall of the pyloric muscle in 88.2% and pyloric olive diameter in 68.1% of the patients. In 90 children, the diagnosis was done by initial abdominal sonography. The remaining 29 were done barium upper gastrointestinal studies under fluoroscopic vision, observing the string sign in 100%, gastric dilatation in 72.4% and delayed gastric emptying in 58.6%. With a second positive abdominal sonography. Corroborating the diagnosis in the surgical act. Abdominal sonography was a highly positive and sensitive diagnostic study, with the length of the pyloric canal as the main ultrasound measurement and the string sign the major radiological finding.

RESUMO Estenose de pilão hipertrófico é a obstrução parcial ou completa do lúmen do pilão, sua musculatura é tão fortemente espessada, que o esvaziamento gástrico é difícil. Embora o diagnóstico seja basicamente clínico, os estudos de imagemsão decisivos na confirmação da doença. Um estudo retrospectivo descritivo foi realizado em 119 pacientes com manifestações clínicas de estenose de pilópio hipertrófico, cujo diagnóstico foi confirmado por estudos de imagem, no Hospital Pediátrico da Universidade William Soler de 2000 a 2015.As medidas de ultrassom foram o comprimento do canal pilórico ≥ 16mm em 95,8%, a parede do músculo pilórico em 88,2% e o diâmetro da azeitona pilórica em 68,1% dos pacientes. Em 90 crianças, o diagnóstico foi feito com o ultrassom abdominal inicial. Os 29 restantes foram raio-x do esôfago, estômago e duodeno sobvisão fluoroscópica, observando 100% o sinal da corda, 72,4% de dilatação gástrica e 58,6% de atraso na evacuação do estômago. Com um segundo ultrassom abdominal positivo. Corroborando todo o diagnóstico no ato cirúrgico. O ultrassom do abdômen foi um meio diagnóstico de alta positividade e sensibilidade, com o comprimento do canal pilóico como principal medida de ultrassom e o sinal da corda o maior achado radiológico.

Availability and accessibility of opioids for pain and palliative care in Colombia: a survey study / Disponibilidad y accesibilidad de los opioides para manejo del dolor y cuidado paliativo en Colombia: estudio tipo encuesta

Abstract Introduction: Access to essential medicines, including opioids, is a component of the right to health. Objective: To identify barriers to opioid availability and accessibility for pain and palliative care. Methods: Online survey with Colombian prescribers. Availability barriers were analyzed for each facility (distribution and/or dispensing). Accessibility barriers were analyzed by type. Descriptive analyses were conducted using relative frequencies. Significance within categories and regions was measured using Fisher's exact test. Results: Out of 1,208 prescribers invited, 806 (66.7%) completed the survey. Availability: 76.43% reported barriers. The most cited barrier was "Pharmacies authorized by health insurance companies", where opioids are frequently unavailable. Accessibility: 74.6% reported barriers. Most frequently cited was "Difficulty securing payment authorization for medication from health insurance companies". Significant differences were observed in terms of regions and "Cost" (p=0.02). Lack of coordination among procuring and distributing agencies affects availability. Limited awareness and bureaucratic procedures affect accessibility. Conclusions: There are barriers to opioid availability and access in Colombia, related to the existing structure for guaranteeing equitable supply. From the perspective of healthcare providers, problems related to pharmacy availability, prescription and cost of medicines hinder pain treatment.

Resumen Introducción: El acceso a medicamentos esenciales, incluidos los opioides, es un componente del derecho a la salud. Objetivo: Identificar las barreras de disponibilidad y acceso a los opioides para dolor y cuidados paliativos. Métodos: Encuesta virtual a prescriptores colombianos. Las barreras de disponibilidad se analizaron para cada centro (distribución y/o dispensación) y las barreras de acceso se analizaron por tipo. Los análisis descriptivos se realizaron utilizando frecuencias relativas. La significancia dentro de categorías y regiones se midió utilizando la prueba exacta de Fischer. Resultados: De los 1208 prescriptores invitados, 806 (66.7%) respondieron la encuesta. Disponibilidad: el 76,43% reportó barreras. La barrera más citada fue la relacionada con las "farmacias autorizadas por las aseguradoras de salud", donde los opioides con frecuencia no están disponibles. Acceso: el 74,6% reportó barreras. Se citó con mayor frecuencia la "Dificultad para obtener la autorización de pago de medicamentos por parte de las aseguradoras". Se observaron diferencias significativas entre regiones y "costos" (p=0,02). La falta de coordinación entre las entidades de adquisición y distribución afecta la disponibilidad. La limitada conciencia y los procedimientos burocráticos afectan la accesibilidad. Conclusiones: Existen barreras de disponibilidad y acceso a los opioides en Colombia, las cuales están relacionadas con la estructura disponible para garantizar un suministro equitativo. Desde el punto de vista de los prescriptores, los problemas relacionados con la disponibilidad de las farmacias, la prescripción y el costo de los medicamentos, obstaculizan el tratamiento adecuado del dolor.

Clinical characterization of patients with inflammatory myopathy in 2 tertiary care hospitals in Colombia: A descriptive survey / Caracterización clínica de pacientes con miopatía inflamatoria en 2 instituciones de alta complejidad en Colombia: estudio descriptivo

ABSTRACT Background: There is little information on inflammatory myopathies in Colombia. The objective was to identify the demographic and clinical characteristics of these patients in two tertiary care hospitals between 2010 and 2015. Materials and methods: A descriptive, retrospective survey was carried out, by reviewing medical records and obtaining information on demographic and clinical variables. The qualitative variables were expressed using absolute and relative frequencies, and the quantitative with mean and standard deviation (SD), or median with interquartile ranges (IQR), depending on data distribution. The IBM SPSS 22 statistical package was used. Results: A total of 105 patients with a mean age of 50.4 years (SD: 15.1) were included, with 76 (72.4%) women. In total, 50 subjects (48.5%) had a definitive diagnosis. The most common inflammatory myopathy was dermatomyositis (n = 66; 62.9%). The skin was the most commonly affected organ (n=66; 62.9%). Muscle weakness was present in 60 individuals (57.1%). The most frequent alarm sign was swallowing disorder (n = 28; 26.7%). Creatine phosphokinase was higher in polymyositis, with a median of 1800IU/L (IQR: 365-6157). The most widely used drugs were glucocorticoids (n = 83; 79%). Some patients were refractory to immunosuppressive treatment, mainly in antisynthetase syndrome (n = 5; 35.7%). Five patients (4.8%) died of infections (pneumonia and bacteraemia). Conclusions: In this cohort, the most common entity was dermatomyositis, and the most affected organ was the skin. There was a significant presentation of warning signs, refractoriness to immunosuppressive treatment, and lower muscle enzyme values compared to other cohorts. Mortality was mainly due to infectious complications.

RESUMEN Introducción: Existe poca información sobre las miopatías inflamatorias en Colombia. El obje tivo fue identificar las características demográficas y clínicas de estos pacientes en dos instituciones de alta complejidad entre los arios 2010 y 2015. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Mediante revisión de registros médicos, se obtuvo información sobre variables demográficas y clínicas. Las variables cualitativas se expresaron mediante frecuencias absolutas y relativas, y las cuantitativas con media y desviación estándar (DE) o mediana con rangos intercuartílicos (RIQ), dependiendo de la distribución de los datos. Se utilizó el paquete estadístico IBM SPSS® v.22. Resultados: Se incluyeron 105 pacientes con edad promedio de 50,4 años (DE: 15,1); 76 mujeres (72,4%). En total, 50 sujetos (48,5%) tuvieron diagnóstico definitivo. La miopa tía inflamatoria más común fue dermatomiositis (n = 66; 62,9%). La piel fue el órgano más comúnmente afectado (n = 66; 62,9%). La debilidad muscular estuvo presente en 60 individuos (57,1%). El signo de alarma más frecuente fue el trastorno de la deglución (n = 28; 26,7%). La creatinfosfoquinasa tuvo mayor elevación en polimiositis con una mediana de 1.800 Ul/l (RIQ: 365-6.157). Los medicamentos más utilizados fueron los glucocorticoides (n = 83; 79%). Hubo refractariedad al tratamiento inmunosupresor, principalmente en síndrome antisintetasa (n = 5; 35,7%). Cinco pacientes (4,8%) murieron por infecciones (neumonía y bacteriemia). Conclusiones: En esta cohorte, la entidad más común fue la dermatomiositis y el órgano más afectado fue la piel. Hubo presentación relevante de signos de alarma, refractariedad al tratamiento inmunosupresor y valores de enzimas musculares menores comparados con otras cohortes. La mortalidad fue principalmente por complicaciones infecciosas.

Ischemic Heart Disease in German Immigrants and Their Descendants in a Region of Southern Brazil: A Comparison of Initial Symptoms Reported between two Generations

Abstract Background Nothing is known about ischemic heart disease (IHD) in the Germans who emigrated to Brazil during the last century. Objective We sought to compare age at diagnosis and IHD manifestations between German immigrants and their first-generation descendants in the region of Blumenau, Brazil. Methods We reviewed medical records of hospitals in Blumenau. Comparison of the groups in the evaluation times was made by analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures, and comparison of two factors was made by two-way ANOVA. The level of significance was set at p <0.05. Results Study population comprised 68 patients who were born in Germany (group G) and 99 descendants (group D). Twenty-nine patients of group D had two German parents and 70 had one. Mean age at diagnosis was 66.8 ± 10.6 years, with a significant difference between the groups, four years higher in Group G than group D (69.0 ± 8.8 vs 65.4 ± 11.5 years old) (p = 0.025). There was no significant difference in risk factors or coronary angiography data between the groups. HDL cholesterol levels were significantly higher in group G than in group D (48.4 ± 11.1 mg/dL vs 43.3 ± 11.2 mg/dL, p = 0.005). Conclusion At the time of first IHD diagnosis, mean age of the group G was significantly higher than group D, with no differences between groups in sex, risk factors, LDL levels, or clinical and angiographic manifestations. An earlier manifestation of the disease could be part of lifestyle changes in descendants, in this population that mantained eating habits characterized by high saturated fat consumption.

Actividades económicas, laborales, ambientales y aditivas con exposición a benceno y el desarrollo de leucemia mieloide aguda / Economic activities, occupational, environmental and additive exposures to benzene and the development of acute myeloid leukemia

Introducción: el benceno es un hidrocarburo aromático obtenido por destilación del alquitrán utilizado en gasolineras y como solvente industrial, clasificado como cancerígeno por exposición ocupacional o ambiental. Está relacionado con el desarrollo de leucemia mieloide aguda (LMA) por su absorción principal por vía inhalatoria, y su metabolismo hepático con producción de benzoquinona de alta liposolubilidad que le permite depositarse en la médula ósea y tejido graso. Objetivo: analizar la asociación de las formas de exposición por actividades económicas, oficios, cargos, exposición ambiental y aditiva con el desarrollo de LMA. Materiales y métodos: revisión sistemática de la literatura en las bases de datos Medline, Embase, Lilacs, Cochrane Library, Toxnet y OpenGrey, en inglés y español con los términos benzene, cancer, leukemia, occupational and enviromental exposition. Resultados: la mayoría de los estudios muestran una relación causal entre la exposición a benceno y el desarrollo de LMA, con predominio en ambientes laborales, seguidos de factores ambientales y aditivos como el humo del cigarrillo. Conclusiones: se encontró evidencia de asociación entre la exposición a benceno ocupacional y/o ambiental con el desarrollo de leucemia mieloide aguda, debido a que altera el estrés oxidativo y la desregulación del aryl hidrocarburo generando efectos citogenéticos, mutación genética y alteraciones epigenéticas que se expresan en hematotoxicidad y desarrollo de leucemia.

Introduction: Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon obtained by distillation of tar used in gas stations and as an industrial solvent, classified as a carcinogen by occupational and environmental exposure. It is related with the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mainly due to its absorption by inhalation and hepatic metabolism producing highly-lipid soluble benzoquinone allowing it to deposit in bone marrow and fatty tissue. Objective: to analyze the association of forms of exposure including economic activities, type of workplace, environmental and additive exposure with the development of AML. Material and Methods: systematic review of the literature in Medline, Embase, Lilacs, Cochrane Library, Toxnet and OpenGrey databases in English and Spanish, using the terms benzene, cancer, leukemia, occupational and environmental exposure. Results: most studies show a causal relationship between benzene exposure and AML development, predominantly in work settings, followed by environmental factors including additive sources such as cigarette smoke. Conclusions: we found evidence of an association between occupational and/or environmental exposure to benzene and the development of AML, for it alters oxidative stress and aryl hydrocarbon deregulation inducing cytogenetic aberrations, genetic mutations and epigenetic changes expressed as hematotoxicity and leukemia development.

Antileishmanial metallodrugs and the elucidation of new drug targets linked to post-translational modifications machinery: pitfalls and progress

Despite the increasing number of manuscripts describing potential alternative antileishmanial compounds, little is advancing on translating these knowledges to new products to treat leishmaniasis. This is in part due to the lack of standardisations during pre-clinical drug discovery stage and also depends on the alignment of goals among universities/research centers, government and pharmaceutical industry. Inspired or not by drug repurposing, metal-based antileishmanial drugs represent a class that deserves more attention on its use for leishmaniasis chemotherapy. Together with new chemical entities, progresses have been made on the knowledge of parasite-specific drug targets specially after using CRISPR/Cas system for functional studies. In this regard, Leishmania parasites undergoe post-translational modification as key regulators in several cellular processes, which represents an entire new field for drug target elucidation, once this is poorly explored. This perspective review describes the advances on antileishmanial metallodrugs and the elucidation of drug targets based on post-translational modifications, highlighting the limitations on the drug discovery/development process and suggesting standardisations focused on products addressed to who need it most.

Nursing training and retraining on cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a theoretical-practical intervention / Entrenamiento y reentrenamiento sobre reanimación cardiopulmonar para enfermería: una intervención teórico-práctica / Treinamento e retreinamento sobre ressuscitação cardiopulmonar para enfermagem: uma intervenção teórico-prática

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the retention of knowledge and skills of nursing professionals following training and retraining on cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Method: This is an intervention, prospective, and analytical study in which 56 nursing professionals received theoretical and practical training in in-service cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Nine months after the first training (T1), these professionals participated in a retraining (T2). They were followed up for 18 months. The linear trend of knowledge and skills in the period following training was calculated and the Wilcoxon test was applied. Results: Interventions increased the knowledge and skills of professionals significantly; however, in the subsequent period, skills decreased. Despite this, after a period of nine months, they were still higher than those identified before the study. There was a reduction of 18.2% in knowledge in the theoretical test after T1 vs 13.0% after T2 (p < 0.01) and a reduction of 7.6% in skills on the practical test after T1 vs 5.3% after T2 (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Nurses were able to retain more knowledge and skills on cardiopulmonary resuscitation after retraining, which stresses the importance of regular training and continuing education in health.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la retención del conocimiento y habilidades de los profesionales de enfermería tras entrenamiento y reentrenamiento sobre reanimación cardiopulmonar (RCP). Método: Estudio de intervención, prospectivo y analítico en el cual 56 profesionales de enfermería recibieron entrenamiento teórico y práctico de RCP en servicio. Nueve meses tras el primer entrenamiento (E1), esos profesionales participaron de un reentrenamiento (E2). Ellos fueron acompanados por 18 meses. La tendencia lineal del conocimiento y habilidades en el período subsecuente a los entrenamientos fue calculada y se aplicó el test de Wilcoxon. Resultados: Las intervenciones aumentaron significativamente el conocimiento y las habilidades de los profesionales, sin embargo, en el periodo subsecuente las competencias se redujeron. A pesar de ello, tras un período de nueve meses ellas todavía se mantuvieron superiores a aquellas identificadas previamente al estudio. Hubo reducción del 18,2% tras E1 contra el 13,0% tras E2 (p < 0,01) del conocimiento en el test teórico y del 7,6% tras E1 contra el 5,3% tras E2 (p < 0,01) de las habilidades en el test práctico. Conclusión: Los profesionales de enfermería lograron retener más conocimiento y habilidades en RCP tras el reentrenamiento, lo que refuerza la importancia de la regularidad de cursos de capacitación y de la educación continua en salud.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a retenção do conhecimento e habilidades dos profissionais de enfermagem após treinamento e retreinamento sobre ressuscitação cardiopulmonar. Método: Estudo de intervenção, prospectivo e analítico no qual 56 profissionais de enfermagem receberam treinamento teórico e prático de RCP em serviço. Nove meses após o primeiro treinamento (T1), esses profissionais participaram de um retreinamento (T2). Eles foram acompanhados por 18 meses. A tendência linear do conhecimento e habilidades no período subsequente aos treinamentos foi calculada e aplicou-se o teste de Wilcoxon. Resultados: As intervenções aumentaram significativamente o conhecimento e as habilidades dos profissionais; no entanto, no período subsequente, as competências reduziram. Apesar disso, após um período de nove meses elas ainda se mantiveram superiores àquelas identificadas previamente ao estudo. Houve redução de 18,2% após T1 vs 13,0% após T2 (p < 0,01) do conhecimento no teste teórico e de 7,6% após T1 vs 5,3% após T2 (p < 0,01) das habilidades no teste prático. Conclusáo: Os profissionais de enfermagem conseguiram reter mais conhecimento e habilidades em ressuscitação cardiopulmonar após o retreinamento, o que reforça a importância da regularidade das capacitações e da educação continuada em saúde.

Factores Contextuales Asociados a la Selectividad de la Conducta Alimentaria: Perspectiva Fonoaudiológica / Contextual Factors Associated with Eating Behavior Selectivity: A speech-language Pathologist Perspective

La conducta alimentaria es una condición que el infante construye en el marco de su realidad contextual. Históricamente la alimentación se ha visto como la vía nutricional, que lo es, pero también cumple otro papel fundamental, generar las condiciones fenotípicas del crecimiento orofacial. Desde cualquiera de estas dos perspectivas, se debe implementar una visión preventiva de la atención en salud, permitiendo generar aportes desde la fonoaudiología para prever situaciones de riesgo alrededor de la selectividad y rechazo de la conducta alimentaria y otras áreas de abordaje que nos competen, y que, en el caso de este artículo, hacen parte del desarrollo de la salud alrededor de los procesos motores y comunicativos que se entretejen con el acto de comer. Las decisiones alrededor de inclusión de nuevos alimentos y la presentación de estos en cuanto características reológicas y organolépticas, son decisiones que deben tomarse a partir de un reconocimiento de la edad, el crecimiento, el desarrollo y la maduración del sistema estomatognático, factores concatenados de manera estrecha con la acción y facilitación de los padres y el contexto. Es importante destacar que la selectividad y el rechazo del alimento, así como la alimentación misma podría destacarse como un hedonismo que no necesariamente nace con el sujeto, sino que se fomenta y se construye a partir de las experiencias. De ahí la importancia de las experiencias positivas en el marco de la alimentación, donde se involucra toda una situación familiar y social cargada de afectividad y patrones inicialmente imitables. Recuerde que, aunque el niño/a no debe ser visto como un adulto de estatura menor, también es importante entender que, desde su nivel de desarrollo cognitivo y emocional, son seres humanos con pensamientos, sensaciones y criterios definidos para su edad, por lo cual aprender a escucharlos también es importante alrededor de los temas que atañen a su alimentación. Buscar estrategias para que ellos comprendan la importancia de la alimentación en relación con el crecimiento y el desarrollo será fundamental no sólo desde lo biológico

Eating behavior is a condition that the infant constructs within the framework of its contextual reality. Historically, feeding has been seen as the nutritional pathway, which it is, but it also plays another fundamental role, generating the phenotypic conditions of orofacial growth. From either of these two perspectives, a preventive vision of health care should be implemented, allowing to generate contributions from speech therapy to anticipate risk situations around the selectivity and rejection of eating behavior and other areas of approach that concern us, and that, in the case of this article, are part of the development of health around the motor and communicative processes that are interwoven with the act of eating. Decisions about the inclusion of new foods and their presentation in terms of rheological and organoleptic characteristics are decisions that must be made based on the recognition of the age, growth, development and maturation of the stomatognathic system, factors closely linked to the action and facilitation of parents and the context. It is important to emphasize that the selectivity and rejection of food, as well as eating itself, could be highlighted as a hedonism that is not necessarily born with the subject, but is fostered and built from experiences. Hence the importance of positive experiences in the context of food, which involves a whole family and social situation loaded with affectivity and initially imitable patterns. Remember that, although the child should not be seen as an adult of smaller stature, it is also important to understand that, from their level of cognitive and emotional development, they are human beings with thoughts, sensations and criteria defined for their age, so learning to listen to them is also important around issues that concern their feeding. Finding strategies for them to understand the importance of food in relation to growth and development will be fundamental not only from the biological point of view

Pre-operative Tc-99m sestamibi parathyroid scan and bone scintigraphy in a case of synchronous parathyroid carcinoma and papillary microcarcinoma

Background@#Parathyroid carcinoma is an uncommon, aggressive, endocrine malignant neoplasm and subsequent parathyroidectomy of such cases may lead to the life-threatening hypocalcemic condition called Hungry Bone Syndrome. We present a very rare case of parathyroid carcinoma with concomitant thyroid microcarcinoma with Hungry Bone Syndrome as its sequalae.@*Case Presentation@#A 54/F initially presenting with hypogastric pain was showed to have nephrolithiasis. Subsequent Endocrinology referral revealed hypercalcemia and osteoporosis – and with a working impression of hypercalcemia secondary to a parathyroid adenoma. Sestamibi parathyroid scan showed persistently avid uptake in the left thyroid lobe highly suspicious for a parathyroid adenoma, but a concomitant thyroid nodule was not ruled out. Bone scan showed intense and diffuse tracer uptake in the skull and irregular tracer activity in the ribs, suggestive of metabolic bone disease, with no evidence of metastatic-looking bone lesions. She underwent left thyroid lobectomy with isthmusectomy and Sestamibi-guided left parathyroidectomy. Histopathology report showed a parathyroid gland carcinoma with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Two weeks post-surgery, hypocalcemic signs developed and ionized calcium was low. Hungry Bone Syndrome was considered and was treated with calcium gluconate and Zoledronic acid.@*Conclusion@#Nuclear imaging techniques and radioguided surgery are helpful in the diagnosis and management of both parathyroid and thyroid lesions – especially in difficult cases.

Retenção das Habilidades de Ressuscitação Cardiopulmonar nos Estudantes de Medicina / Retention of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Skills in Medical Students

Resumo Fundamento A redução da mortalidade e das sequelas de uma vítima de parada cardíaca depende de um atendimento eficaz, rápido e iniciado o mais precocemente possível. O suporte básico de vida (SBV) compreende uma série de etapas que podem ser iniciadas fora do ambiente hospitalar, e ensinadas para qualquer pessoa em cursos específicos. Porém, é importante que o socorrista retenha o conhecimento e as habilidades, pois nunca se sabe quando será necessário realizar uma ressuscitação cardiopulmonar (RCP). Entretanto, estudos mostram que existe uma perda das habilidades em executar uma RCP já com 30 dias após o treinamento, com variações segundo algumas características das pessoas e da atividade profissional. Objetivo Avaliar se os estudantes de medicina são capazes de reter as habilidades por mais de seis meses. Métodos Estudo prospectivo, caso controle, observacional. Estudantes de medicina realizaram um curso sobre morte súbita e parada cardíaca de 40 horas. A avaliação das habilidades foi realizada imediatamente após o curso e seis meses depois. Foram comparadas as notas individuais entre dois momentos, foi avaliada a porcentagem de acerto em cada etapa e uma análise global do atendimento foi classificado como ótimo, bom e ruim. Os avaliadores e critérios foram os mesmos nos dois momentos. Os dados foram analisados pelos teste-t pareado e teste de McNemar, onde para um nível de confiança de 95% o critério para significância foi p < 0,05. Resultados Cinquenta estudantes (27 do sexo feminino) do primeiro ano, com idade entre 18 e 24 anos (média 21), realizaram o curso. O número de etapas cumpridas de forma correta após seis meses foi significativamente menor que logo após o curso (10,8 vs 12,5 p < 0,001). O sexo e idade não interferiram nos resultados. A qualidade global foi considerada ótima em 78% dos atendimentos realizados logo após o curso, significativamente, maior que os 40% após seis meses (p < 0,01). Após seis meses, maior número de erros foi observado nas etapas relacionadas às habilidades mais práticas (como posicionamento das mãos). Conclusão Seis meses após o curso observamos uma perda significativa das habilidades, entre estudantes de medicina, prejudicando a eficácia global do atendimento.

Abstract Background Reduction of mortality and sequelae of cardiac arrest depends on an effective and fast intervention, started as soon as possible. Basic life support involves a series of steps that may be initiated out of the hospital setting and taught to any person in specific courses. However, it is important that the rescuers retain the knowledge and skills to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as one never knows when they will be required. Studies have shown that a loss of skills occurs as early as 30 days after the training course, with variations according to personal and professional characteristics. Objectives to assess whether medical students are able to retain skills acquired in a BLS course for more than six months. Methods Prospective, case-control, observational study. Medical students attended a 40-hour course on sudden death and cardiac arrest. Skills acquired during the course were evaluated immediately after and six months after the course. Students' individual scores were compared between these time points, the percentage of correct answers was evaluated, and overall performance was rated as excellent, good, and poor. Observers and evaluation criteria were the same immediately after the course and six months later. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test and the McNemar test. The 95% confidence interval was established, and a p < 0.05 was set as statistically significant. Results Fifty students (27 female) in the first year of medical school aged from 18 to 24 years (mean of 21 years) attended the course. The number of steps successfully completed by the students at six months was significantly lower than immediately after the course (10.8 vs 12.5 p < 0.001). Neither sex nor age affected the results. Overall performance of 78% of the students was considered excellent immediately after the course, and this percentage was significantly higher than six months later (p < 0.01). After six months, the steps that the students failed to complete at six months were those related to practical skills (such as a correct hand positioning). Conclusion A significant loss of skills was detected six months after the BLS course among medical students, compromising their overall performance.

Factores de riesgo nutricionales asociados con el desarrollo de obesidad en militares / Nutritional risk factors associated with the development of obesity in military population

Resumen Introducción: La correcta alimentación de los soldados es clave para mantener la salud y el buen rendimiento, actualmente, la obesidad constituye un problema de salud pública calificada como la "epidemia del siglo". Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo nutricionales asociados al sobrepeso y obesidad en una Brigada del Ejército Mexicano. Material y métodos: Se determinó la fuerza de asociación entre los factores de riesgo nutricionales y el desarrollo de sobrepeso y obesidad. La asociación se realizó mediante X2 y OR, y la diferencia de medias con prueba Z. Resultados: Se observó diferencia entre casos y controles en consumo de calorías (z=9.34, P<0.01), proteínas (z=10.22, P<0.01), grasas (z=8.84, P<0.0) y carbohidratos (z=7.04, P<0.01). El consumo de verduras y frutas <1 vez/semana, y el de bebidas azucaradas >1 vez/semana fueron factores de riesgo para desarrollar sobrepeso y obesidad (X2=4.406; p=0.036; OR=2.1), (X2= 5.6; p=0.018; OR=2.25), (X2=7.368; p=0.007; OR=4.5), respectivamente. El no consumir la mayor cantidad de calorías en el comedor y el que la cafetería y la calle sean el sitio de mayor consumo de calorías fueron factores de riesgo (X2=14.44; p=0.000; OR=4.3), (X2=13.74; p=0.000; OR=5.56) y (X2=6.375; p=0.012; OR =4.12), respectivamente. Conclusiones: El consumo menor o igual a una vez a la semana de verduras y frutas, el consumir bebidas azucaradas más de una vez a la semana, el consumir la mayor cantidad de calorías de la cafetería y de la calle y el no consumir la mayor cantidad de calorías en el comedor fueron factores de riesgo para desarrollar sobrepeso-obesidad.

Abstract Introduction: Correctly feeding soldiers is key to maintaining health and good performance. Obesity is currently a public health problem classified as the "epidemic of the century". Objective to identify the nutritional risk factors associated with overweight and obesity in a Mexican Army Brigade. Material and methods: The strength of association between nutritional risk factors and the development of overweight and obesity was determined. The association was made using X2 and OR, and the difference in means with the Z test. Results: Different differences between cases and controls in the consumption of calories (z = 9.34, P <0.01), proteins (z = 10.22, P <0.01), fats (z = 8.84, P <0.0) and carbohydrates (z = 7.04, P <0.01). Consumption of vegetables and fruits <1 time / week and consumption of sugary drinks> 1 time / week were risk factors for developing overweight and obesity (X2 = 4,406; p = 0.036; OR = 2.1), (X2 = 5.6 ; p = 0.018; OR = 2.25), (X2 = 7.368; p = 0.007; OR = 4.5), respectively. Failure to consume the highest amount of calories in the dining room and the fact that the cafeteria and the street are the site of the highest calorie consumption were risk factors (X2 = 14.44; p = 0.000; OR = 4.3), (X2 = 13.74; p = 0.000; OR = 5.56) and (X2 = 6.375; p = 0.012; OR = 4.12), respectively. Conclusions: Consumption less than or equal to once a week of vegetables and fruits, consumption of sugary drinks more than once a week, consumption of the greatest number of calories in the cafeteria and the street and non-consumption of the greatest amount of calories in the dining room were risk factors for developing overweight-obesity.

Características clínico-epidemiológicas en pacientes con estenosis hipertrófica del píloro. Estudio de 15 años en un centro terciario / Clinic-epidemiological characteristics in patients with hypertrophic pyloricstenosis. 15-year study in a tertiary center / Características clínico-epidemiológicas em pacientes com estenose hipertrófica do piloro. Estudo de 15 anos em um centro terciário

RESUMEN La estenosis hipertrófica del píloro está caracterizada por una hipertrofia e hiperplasia de las fibras musculares y estrechamiento del canal pilórico, que provoca vómitos no biliosos, dando lugar a una de las causas más comunes de tratamiento quirúrgico en la etapa de recién nacido. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo en 119 pacientes con el diagnóstico de estenosis hipertrófica del píloro en el Hospital Pediátrico Universitario "William Soler" desde el año 2000 al 2015. El 70,6% de los niños tenía entre tres y cinco semanas de nacido y el 83,2% un peso al diagnóstico entre 2500 g a 4500 g. El vómito estuvo presente en todos los pacientes, las alteraciones del peso corporal en 79,8% y los desequilibrios hidroelectrolíticos y acido básico en el 53,8%. El sexo masculino, apariencia racial blanca, ser primogénito y la lactancia artificial o mixta, fueron factores de riesgos prevalentes significativos asociados a la enfermedad (p<0.05). La estenosis hipertrófica del píloro se diagnosticó con mayor frecuencia a la 4ta semana de vida y en niños con un peso entre 3000 a 4500 g. Las variaciones ponderales denotan la importancia del seguimiento de la curva de peso en estos pacientes.

ABSTRACT Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is characterized by hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the muscle fibers and narrowing of the pyloric canal, which causes non-bilious vomiting, giving rise to one of the most common causes of surgical treatment in the newborn stage. A retrospective descriptive study was carried out in 119 patients with a diagnosis of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis at the "William Soler" University Pediatric Hospital from 2000 to 2015. 70.6% of the children were between three and five weeks old and 83.2% a weight at diagnosis between 2500 g to 4500 g. Vomiting was present in all patients, alterations in body weight in 79.8% and hydroelectrolyte and basic acid imbalances in 53.8%. Male sex, white racial appearance, being first-born, and artificial or mixed breastfeeding were significant prevalent risk factors associated with the disease (p <0.05). Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis was most frequently diagnosed at the 4th week of life and in children weighing between 3000 and 4500 g. The weight variations denote the importance of following the weight curve in these patients.

RESUMO A estenose hipertrófica do piloro é caracterizada por hipertrofia e hiperplasia das fibras musculares e estreitamento do canal pilórico, que causa vômitos não biliosos, sendo uma das causas mais comuns de tratamento cirúrgico na fase neonatal. Um estudo descritivo retrospectivo foi realizado em 119 pacientes com diagnóstico de estenose pilórica hipertrófica no Hospital Pediátrico da Universidade "William Soler" de 2000 a 2015. 70,6% das crianças tinham entre três e cinco semanas de idade e 83,2% com peso ao diagnóstico entre 2500 ga 4500 g. Vômito esteve presente em todos os pacientes, alteração do peso corporal em 79,8% e desequilíbrio hidroeletrolítico e ácido básico em 53,8%. Sexo masculino, raça branca, primogênito e amamentação artificial ou mista foram fatores de risco prevalentes e significativos associados à doença (p <0,05). A estenose hipertrófica do piloro foi diagnosticada com maior frequência na 4ª semana de vida e em crianças com peso entre 3.000 e 4.500 g. As variações de peso denotam a importância de seguir a curva de peso nesses pacientes.

Derretimiento corneal como complicación de queratitis ulcerativa periférica en un paciente con artritis reumatoide / Corneal melt as a complication of a peripheral ulcerative keratitis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis

RESUMEN Las manifestaciones oculares de la artritis reumatoide son manifestaciones graves que requieren manejo agresivo. En el presente reporte presentamos un caso de queratitis asociada a derretimiento corneal desencadenado por suspensión abrupta de su medicación reumatológica y cirugía no ocular, que respondió de forma favorable al manejo con metil-prednisolona y ciclofosfamida.

ABSTRACT Ocular signs of rheumatoid arthritis are severe extra-articular manifestations, which usually require aggressive management. In this report, A case is presented here of patient with peripheral ulcerative keratitis associated with corneal melt syndrome triggered by abrupt suspension of antirheumatic medication and non-ocular surgery. They symptoms responded favourably to methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide.