En Bloc Resection of Bladder Tumors (ERBT) using different lasers - Hybrid and Holmium Laser

ABSTRACT Introduction: The En-bloc Resection of Bladder Tumors (ERBT) is a method that offers more benefits compared to the traditional Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT) (1, 2). Recent studies have shown that ERBT offers better pathological analysis and oncological outcomes (3-6). Thulium and holmium are the most frequently used lasers for this procedure, with the hybrid laser being a new addition that combines thulium and diode to improve hemostatic properties (5, 7-9). Objective: This report aims to discuss the use of two types of lasers, hybrid and holmium, for ERBT. Material and Methods: Two case studies were conducted. The first case featured a 68-year-old male with two tumors measuring 1.5cm and 2cm. The hybrid laser was used for the procedure. The second case involved a 70-year-old female with a 5cm tumor on the posterior bladder wall, and holmium laser was used with morcellation of the tumor. The quality of histopathological analysis was evaluated. The perioperative data and the entire procedure of the two cases were documented in a step-by-step video. Results: Both lasers demonstrated excellent results without technical difficulties. There was no bleeding, and both patients were discharged with one day of hospitalization. The detrusor muscle was present without artifacts, and the morcellation did not affect the analysis. The first case showed a pT1G3, and the second case showed a pT2 urothelial carcinoma. The hybrid laser exhibited superior hemostatic capacity compared to the holmium laser. Conclusion: ERBT can use hybrid or holmium lasers without affecting histopathological analysis, even with morcellation.

Impact of lifestyle in prostate cancer patients. What should we do?

ABSTRACT Objective: This review aimed to analyze interventions raised within primary and tertiary prevention concerning the disease's incidence, progression, and recurrence of Prostate Cancer (PCa). Priority was given to the multidisciplinary approach of PCa patients with an emphasis on modifiable risk factors. Materials and Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review in the following databases: Embase, Central, and Medline. We included the most recent evidence assessing cohort studies, case-control studies, clinical trials, and systematic reviews published in the last five years. We only included studies in adults and in vitro or cell culture studies. The review was limited to English and Spanish articles. Results: Preventive interventions at all levels are the cornerstone of adherence to disease treatment and progression avoidance. The relationship in terms of healthy lifestyles is related to greater survival. The risk of developing cancer is associated to different eating habits, determined by geographic variations, possibly related to different genetic susceptibilities. Discussion: PCa is the second most common cancer in men, representing a leading cause of death among men in Latin America. Prevention strategies and healthy lifestyles are associated with higher survival rates in PCa patients. Also, screening for anxiety and the presence of symptoms related to mood disorders is essential in the patient's follow-up concerning their perception of the condition.

Optimal waist circumference cutoff values to predict cardiometabolic alterations in a Venezuela national representative sample. The EVESCAM study / Valores óptimos de punto de corte de circunferencia abdominal para predecir alteraciones cardiometabólicas en una muestra representativa nacional de Venezuela. El estudio EVESCAM

Abstract Objective: Waist circumference (WC) value reflects abdominal adiposity, but the amount abdominal fat that is associated to cardiometabolic risk factors varies among ethnicities. Determination of metabolic abnormalities has not undergone a WC adaptation process in Venezuela. The aim of the study was (1) to determine the optimal WC cutoff value associated with ≥2 cardiometabolic alterations and (2) incorporating this new WC cutoff, to determine the prevalence of abdominal obesity and cardiometabolic risk factors related in Venezuela. Methods: The study was national population-based, cross-sectional, and randomized sample, from 2014 to 2017. To assess performance of WC for identifying cardiometabolic alterations, receiver operating characteristics curves, area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratios were calculated. Results: Three thousand three hundred eighty-seven adults were evaluated with mean age of 41.2 ± 15.8 years. Using the best tradeoff between sensitivity and specificity, WC cutoffs of 90 cm in men (sensitivity = 72.4% and specificity = 66.1%) and 86 cm in women (sensitivity = 76.2% and specificity = 61.4%) were optimal for aggregation of ≥2 cardiometabolic alterations. AUC was 0.75 in men and 0.73 in women using these new cutoffs. Prevalence of abdominal obesity and metabolic syndrome was 59.6% (95 CI; 57.5-61.7) and 47.6% (95 CI; 45.2-50.0), respectively. Cardiometabolic risk factors were associated with being men, higher age, adiposity, and living in northern or western regions. Conclusion: The optimal WC values associated with cardiometabolic alterations were 90 cm in men and 86 cm in women. More than half of the Venezuelan population had abdominal obesity incorporating this new WC cutoff.

Resumen Objetivo: El valor de la circunferencia abdominal (CA) refleja la adiposidad abdominal, pero la cantidad de grasa abdominal asociada a factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos varía según la etnia. La determinación de anomalías metabólicas no se ha adaptado a la CA en Venezuela. 1) Detrerminar el valor de corte óptimo de CA asociados a ≥ 2 alteraciones cardiometabólicas. 2) Incorporando este nuevo límite de CA, determinar la prevalencia de obesidad abdominal y factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos relacionados en Venezuela. Métodos: Fue un estudio poblacional, transversal, de muestreo aleatorio de 2014 a 2017. Para evaluar el valor de CA para identificar alteraciones cardiometabólicas, se realizaron curvas características operativa del receptor y se calculó área bajo la curva (ABC), sensibilidad, especificidad y razón de similitud. Resultados: se evaluaron 3387 adultos con una edad promedio de 41.2 ± 15.8 años. Utilizando la mejor relación entre sensibilidad y especificidad, se determinó que los valores de corte de 90 cm en hombres (sensibilidad = 72.4% y especificidad = 66.1%) y 86 cm en mujeres (sensibilidad = 76.2% y especificidad = 61.4%) fueron óptimos para la agregación de ≥ 2 alteraciones cardiometabólicas. El ABC fue de 0,75 en hombres y de 0,73 en mujeres usando estos nuevos puntos de corte. La prevalencia de obesidad abdominal y síndrome metabólico fue 59.6% (95IC; 57.5 - 61.7) y 47.6% (95CI; 45.2 - 50.0), respectivamente. La presencia de factores de riesgo cardiometabólicos se asoció con ser hombre, mayor edad, adiposidad y vivir en regiones del norte o del oeste. Conclusión: Los valores óptimos de CA asociados con alteraciones cardiometabólicas fueron 90 cm en hombres y 86 cm en mujeres. Más de la mitad de la población venezolana tenía obesidad abdominal al incorporar este nuevo corte de CA.

Roles for community health workers in diabetes prevention and management in low- and middle-income countries / O papel dos agentes comunitários de saúde na prevenção e manejo do diabetes em países de renda baixa e média / Roles de trabajadores comunitarios en salud para la prevención y gestión de la diabetes en países con medios y bajos ingresos

Diabetes prevalence is increasing worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), posing the need for improved detection and management strategies. Chronic disease models and lifestyle medicine provide structures for action. Community health workers (CHWs) can significantly contribute to chronic disease care if they are trained and integrated into low-resource health systems. Although most current CHWs worldwide are performing maternal/child health and infectious disease-related tasks, other programs involving CHWs for noncommunicable disease prevention and management are increasing. In this article, we discuss the advantages, challenges, and questions regarding possible roles assigned to CHWs in the prevention and management of diabetes. These roles include performing simple screening tests, implementing lifestyle/behavioral interventions, and connecting patients with alternatives to biomedicine. Specifically, CHWs can aid diabetes epidemiological surveillance by conducting risk score-based screening or capillary glucose testing, and they can facilitate diabetes self-management by delivering interventions described in the transcultural diabetes nutrition algorithm. Furthermore, while this role has not formally been assigned, CHWs can leverage their intimate knowledge of local practices to provide decision-making support to patients in environments with pluralistic health systems. Ethnocultural differences in CHW functions and transcultural adaptations of their roles in diabetes care should also be considered. In summary, CHWs can improve diabetes care by screening high-risk individuals and implementing lifestyle interventions, especially in LMIC.

A prevalência do diabetes está aumentando em nível global, sobretudo nos países de renda baixa e média, o que exige melhor detecção e manejo da doença. O modelo de doenças crônicas e a medicina de estilo de vida fornecem estruturas para a ação nesse sentido. Os agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS) podem contribuir de maneira significativa para a assistência às doenças crônicas, desde que sejam capacitados e integrados aos sistemas de saúde, que dispõem de recursos limitados. Embora a maioria dos ACS no mundo esteja desempenhando tarefas relacionadas à saúde materno-infantil e doenças infecciosas, estão crescendo outros programas que envolvem a prevenção e manejo das doenças não transmissíveis. O artigo discute as vantagens, desafios e questões relacionados aos possíveis papéis definidos para os ACS na prevenção e manejo do diabetes. Esses papéis incluem testes simples de triagem, implementação de intervenções comportamentais e de estilo de vida e recomendação de alternativas à biomedicina para os pacientes. Especificamente, os ACS podem auxiliar na vigilância epidemiológica do diabetes, realizando triagem baseada em pontuação de risco ou testagem de glicemia capilar, e podem facilitar o auto-manejo do diabetes através de intervenções baseadas no algoritmo nutricional transcultural do diabetes. Além disso, embora o papel não tenha sido definido formalmente, os ACS podem alavancar seu conhecimento íntimo das práticas locais para apoiar decisões pelos pacientes em contextos com sistemas de saúde pluralistas. Devem ser consideradas as diferenças etnoculturais nas funções dos ACS e nas adaptações transculturais de seus papéis durante a assistência ao diabetes. Em resumo, os ACS podem melhorar a assistência ao diabetes através da triagem e da implementação oportuna de intervenções de estilo de vida, principalmente nos países de renda baixa e média.

La prevalencia de diabetes está aumentando en todo el mundo, especialmente en los países de bajos y medios ingresos (LMIC por sus siglas en inglés), imponiendo la necesidad de una detección y gestión mejoradas. Un modelo de enfermedad crónica y la medicina del estilo de vida proporcionan estructuras para la acción. Los trabajadores comunitarios de salud (CHWs por sus siglas en inglés) pueden contribuir significativamente al cuidado de la enfermedad crónica, si son entrenados e integrados en sistemas con pocos recursos de salud. A pesar de que la mayoría de los actuales CHWs en todo el mundo están desarrollando tareas relacionadas con enfermedades infecciosas en la salud maternal/infantil, otros programas que implican a los CHWs para la prevención y gestión de enfermedades no comunicables están aumentando. En este artículo, discutimos las ventajas, desafíos, y preguntas respecto a los posibles roles asignados a los CHWs, en la prevención y gestión de la diabetes. Estos roles incluyen realizar simples pruebas de detección, implementando intervenciones de estilo de vida/comportamentales, y conectando pacientes con alternativas a la biomedicina. Específicamente, los CHWs pueden ayudar en la vigilancia epidemiológica de la diabetes, llevando a cabo pruebas de detección basadas en marcadores de riesgo o pruebas de glucosa capilares, y pueden facilitar el autocontrol de la diabetes proporcionando intervenciones descritas en el algoritmo transcultural de nutrición en diabetes. Asimismo, mientras este rol no se les haya asignado formalmente, los CHWs pueden potenciar su conocimiento profundo de prácticas locales para proporcionar apoyo en la toma de decisiones a pacientes en entornos con sistemas de salud plurales. Las diferencias etnoculturales en las funciones de los CHW y las adaptaciones transculturales de sus papeles en el cuidado de la diabetes deberían también ser consideradas. En resumen, los CHWs pueden mejorar el cuidado de la diabetes detectando e implementando oportunamente las intervenciones de estilo de vida, especialmente en LMIC.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus: Diagnostic delay / Hidrocefalia de presión normal: demora en el diagnóstico

Abstract. Introduction: Normotensive hydrocephalus is a differential diagnosis in the evaluation of the dementia syndrome. The diagnostic protocols would allow detecting this pathology that has more effective treatment than other dementias. Objective: To describe a population with clinical suspicion of normal pressure hydrocephalus evaluated in a Colombian psychiatric hospital and discuss the possible reasons for its diagnostic and therapeutic delay. Materials and methods: We conducted a retrospective study of medical records to identify patients with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus during a 5-year period. Results: Thirty-five patients with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus underwent diagnostic lumbar puncture and five of them were considered candidates for a peritoneal-venous shunt, but none underwent this surgical procedure. After three to six months of the lumbar puncture, the gait pattern improved in 22.8% of the patients, cognition in 22.8%, and sphincter control in 11.4%. Improvement was not sustained in the long term (1 year) in any of them. Conclusion: This study suggests the poor implementation of the protocols for evaluating patients with cognitive deficits and delays in the diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus. A small number of patients were identified as candidates for treatment. Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a potentially reversible clinical entity with the placement of a peritoneal ventricular shunt, but delays in diagnosis and treatment have deleterious consequences for patients and their families.

Resumen. Introducción. La hidrocefalia normotensiva es un diagnóstico diferencial en la evaluación del síndrome demencial. Los protocolos diagnósticos permitirían detectar esta condición, cuyo tratamiento es más efectivo que el de otras demencias. Objetivo. Describir una población con sospecha clínica de hidrocefalia normotensiva evaluada en un hospital psiquiátrico colombiano y discutir las posibles razones de la demora en el diagnóstico y en la terapia de esta condición clínica. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio retrospectivo de los registros médicos para detectar pacientes con sospecha de hidrocefalia normotensiva durante un período de cinco años. Resultados. A 35 pacientes con sospecha de hidrocefalia normotensiva se les hizo una punción lumbar diagnóstica. Cinco de ellos se consideraron candidatos para una derivación ventrículo-peritoneal, pero ninguno se sometió a este procedimiento quirúrgico. A los 3-6 meses de la punción lumbar, se observó una mejoría del patrón de la marcha en el 22,8 % de los pacientes, de la cognición en el 22,8 % y del control del esfínter en el 11,4 %. La mejoría no se mantuvo a largo plazo (un año) en ningún paciente. Conclusión. Se encontró una implementación deficiente de los protocolos de evaluación de los pacientes con déficit cognitivos y demoras en el diagnóstico de la hidrocefalia normotensiva, así como un número reducido de pacientes clasificados como candidatos para el tratamiento. La hidrocefalia normotensiva es una condición clínica potencialmente reversible con la colocación de una derivación ventrículo-peritoneal. Los retrasos en el diagnóstico y en el tratamiento tienen consecuencias perjudiciales para los pacientes y sus familias.

Hypereosinophilic syndrome in an infant / Síndrome hipereosinofílico en un lactante

Abstract Background The hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is defined by an eosinophilic count > 1500 cell/mm3 and organ damage or dysfunction that can be easily mistaken for atopic dermatitis or pulmonary pathologies. Timely diagnosis and treatment can improve the prognosis and avoid heart and renal complications or lung fibrosis. Case report The case of an infant is reported with a 24-h evolution of cough and fever, personal history of atopic dermatitis, and a generalized dermatosis 2 months earlier. In the initial approach, respiratory disease was considered. However, blood count reported hypereosinophilia, which led to further studies and the diagnosis of the HES. Conclusions Although a rare pathology, it is important to consider the HES in children with common symptoms, and unusual evolution or poor treatment response and persistent hypereosinophilia.

Resumen Introducción El síndrome hipereosinofílico se define por la cuenta de eosinófilos > 1,500 células/mm3 con daño orgánico o disfunción, sin ninguna causa subyacente. Puede ser fácilmente confundido con una dermatitis atópica o con patologías pulmonares. El diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento adecuado pueden mejorar el pronóstico y evitar complicaciones cardíacas y renales o el desarrollo de fibrosis pulmonar. Caso clínico Se reporta el caso de un lactante con tos y fiebre de 24 horas de evolución y una historia personal de dermatitis atópica, además de dermatosis generalizada dos meses antes. Inicialmente, se consideró como una enfermedad respiratoria; sin embargo, la cuenta de células sanguíneas reportó hipereosinofilia, lo cual condujo a estudios confirmatorios y al diagnóstico de síndrome hipereosinofílico. Conclusiones A pesar de ser una enfermedad rara, es de suma importancia considerar el síndrome hipereosinofílico en el diagnóstico diferencial en niños con una evolución atípica o con pobre respuesta al tratamiento, además de hipereosinofilia persistente.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in three regions in Venezuela: The VEMSOLS Study / Prevalência de síndrome metabólica em três regiões da Venezuela: o estudo VemSOLS

Background: No previous study has evaluated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in more than one region in Venezuela.Objective: To determine the prevalence of MS in three Venezuelan regions. Methods: From 2006 to 2010, a total of 1,320 subjects aged ≥ 20 years were selected by multistage stratified random sampling from the regions of Lara State (western region), Mérida State (the Andean region), and Capital District (Capital Region). Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical analysis were obtained from each participant. MS was defined according to the harmonized Joint Interim Statement (2009) definition.Results: Mean age was 44.8 ± 0.39 years and 68.5% of the participants were female. The overall prevalence of MS was 35.7% (95% confidence interval 32.2 ­ 39.2%), while the prevalence was 42.5% (95% CI 38.8 ­ 46.1%) among men and 32.6% (95% CI 29.1 ­ 36.0%) among women (p < 0.001). In women, the prevalence of MS increased at almost every decade of life, while in men, the prevalence was similar from the age of 30 years onwards. The most prevalent abnormalities were low HDL-c levels (58.6%, 95% CI 54.9 ­ 62.1%), abdominal obesity (52.0%, 95% CI 48.4 ­ 55.7%), and elevated triglycerides levels (39.7%, 95% CI 36.1 ­ 43.2%). The prevalence of MS increased with increasing body mass index categories. Conclusion: In Venezuela, MS is a highly prevalent condition, which increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in a large number of subjects

Antecedentes maternos prenatales y riesgo de complicaciones neonatales en productos de término de bajo peso para edad gestacional / Maternal prenatal history and neonatal risk complications for low-weight for gestacional age term newborns

Resumen Introducción: El bajo peso neonatal (< 2.5 kg o < percentil 10) se atribuye a causas constitucionales (pequeño para la edad gestacional [PEG]) o a la restricción en el crecimiento intrauterino (RCIU), con riesgos posnatales diferentes. En ausencia de una valoración fetal-placentaria prenatal adecuada, resulta difícil establecerlo. El conocer los antecedentes maternos de enfermedades gestacionales (AMEG): hipertensión arterial (HTA), hipotiroidismo, Diabetes Mellitus (DM) gestacional y otra; pudiera orientar a la diferenciación y el manejo. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar si la presencia de AMEG se asocia a complicaciones neonatales en productos de bajo peso neonatal. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo en un grupo de 349 recién nacidos vivos de término (≥ 37 semanas de edad gestacional [SEG]), PEG, en cunero fisiológico y agrupados según los AMEG. Se determinó la frecuencia de dificultad respiratoria (DR), hipoglucemia (HG) e hiperbilirrubinemia (HBr). Resultados: El 16.6% (58/349) presentó AMEG (58.6% HTA y 41.3% hipotiroidismo, solos o combinados). Los neonatos con AMEG fueron más limítrofes (37 SEG, 55.2% vs. 35.1%; p = 0.037). Los de 37 SEG con menor peso (diferencia de ≈100 g; p = 0.028), más riesgo de HG (13.6%; intervalo de confianza al 95% [IC 95%]: −4.08-31.2) pero menos DR (diferencia de −4.7%; IC 95%: −20.6-11.05). La HG en los de 39 SEG solo se presentó en neonatos sin AMEG (diferencia 12.7%; IC 95%: 3.9 a 31.5) igual que la HBr (tres casos). Conclusiones: Indagar sobre los AMEG en un producto PEG parece ser útil en la inferencia de RCIU. Sin embargo, es insuficiente, por lo que en conjunto con otras herramientas nos ayuda a estimar posibles complicaciones y acciones preventivas.

Abstract Background: Low-birth-weight (LWB < 2.5 kg or <10 percentile) could be caused by constitutional matters or by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), both with different neonatal complications. Without an adequate prenatal evaluation is hard to stablish those conditions. Knowing the maternal history for gestational diseases (MHGD) such as hypertension (HTA), hypothyroidism or diabetes, among others could help clarify that difference. The aim of this work was to determine if having a MHGD is associated to neonatal complications in newborns with LWB. Methods: Retrospective cohort study, which included 349 with LWB at term (≥ 37 weeks of gestation [WG]) grouped into those with or without MHGD at a hospital nursery. The frequency of respiratory distress, hypoglycemia, and hyperbilirubinemia was determined. Results: 16.6% (58/349) had MHGD (58.6% for HTA and 41.3% hypothyroidism alone or combined). The neonate with MHGD were more borderline term (37 WGA, 55.2% vs. 35.1%; p = 0.037), and had lower weight (difference of ≈100 g; p = 0.028), had more cases with hypoglycemia (13.6%; CI 95%: −4.08 to 31.2%) but developed less respiratory distress (RD) (difference of −4.7%; CI 95%: −20.6 to 11.05%). Hypoglycemia in 39 WGA was only seen among neonates without MHGD (difference 12.7%; CI95%: 3.9 to 31.5%) just as for the hyperbilirubinemia cases (three). Conclusions: Inquiring about the MHGD on LBW term babies could be useful in the inference of IUGR, although we need other tools so that altogether can help to predict possible complications and to plan preventive actions.

Prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in three populations from Venezuela: the VEMSOLS STUDY 2006-2010 / Prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiometabólico en 3 poblaciones de Venezuela: estudio VEMSOLS 2006-2010

Abstract Introduction: No previous studies had reported the prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases various regions of Venezuela. Objective: To determine the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in 3 populations of Venezuela. Methods: The VEMSOLS study is a sub-national, cross-sectional, population based, with bi-stage random sampling study, evaluating 751 subjects aged 20 or older from 3 selected municipalities of Venezuela. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were obtained. ANOVA was used to continous variables and Chi-square to proportions, a p<0.05 was significant. Results: 69% were females and 81.4% from urban areas. Low HDL-c was the most prevalent disorder (63.8% [-CI- 95% 60.1-67.4]), being more common in women than in men (74.1% [69.9 -77.9] and 40.4% [33.7-43.4], respectively, p < 0.05); followed by abdominal obesity (47.4% [43.8 -51.1]) and hypertriglyceridemia (45.2% [41.5 - 49.0]). One third (30.0% [26.7-33.4]) had hypertension, 11.8% (9.5 -14.5) diabetes, 23.1% (20.2-26.3) obesity, and 20.1% (17.2-23.4) elevated LDL-cholesterol. Metabolic syndrome was present in 29.9% (26.5-33.5) of the sample. Rural population from the Andeans mountains (Páramo) presented a lower prevalence of obesity and low HDL-c (p < 0.05) comparing with urban samples. Lara's population, which had the highest Body Mass Index of the 3 municipalities, had a higher prevalence of abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia and elevated LDL-c than the other two populations (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A high prevalence of cardiometabolic abnormalities in 3 populations of Venezuela was observed with a lower prevalence of alterations in the rural area. MÉD.UIS. 2018;31(1):15-22.

Resumen Introducción: Ningún estudio ha reportado la prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiometabólico en varias regiones de Venezuela. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiometabólico en 3 poblaciones de Venezuela. Materiales y Métodos: El estudio VEMSOLS es un estudio sub-nacional, transversal, poblacional, de muestreo aleatorio bi-etápico, evaluando 751 sujetos de 20 o más años de edad de 3 municipios de Venezuela. Mediciones antropométricas y bioquímicas fueron obtenidas. Analysis of Variance se utilizó para variables continuas y Chi-cuadrado para proporciones, significancia fue p<0,05. Resultados: 69% fueron mujeres y 81,4% del área urbana. Colesterol HDL bajo fue la alteración más prevalente (63,8% [Intervalo de Confianza -IC- 95%: 60,1-67,4]), siendo más común en mujeres que en hombres (74,1% [69,9 -77,9] y 40,4% [33,7-43,4], respectivamente, p< 0,05); seguidos por obesidad abdominal (47,4% [43,8 -51,1]) e hipertrigliceridemia (45,2% [41,5 - 49,0]). Un tercio (30,0% [26,7-33,4]) tenía hipertensión, 11,8% (9,5 -14,5) diabetes, 23,1% (20,2 - 26,3) obesidad y 20,1% (17,2-23,4) colesterol LDL elevado. El síndrome metabólico estuvo presente en 29,9% (26,5-33,5) de la muestra. La población rural de los Andes (Páramo) presentó una baja prevalencia de obesidad y colesterol HDL bajo comparado con las muestras urbanas (p < 0,05). La población de Lara, quien tenía el índice de masa corporal más elevado de las 3 municipalidades, mostró una alta prevalencia de obesidad abdominal, dislipidemia aterogénica y colesterol LDL elevado en comparación con las otras dos poblaciones (p< 0.05). Conclusión: Se observó una elevada prevalencia de anormalidades cardiometabólicas en 3 poblaciones de Venezuela con una menor prevalencia de alteraciones en el área rural. MÉD.UIS. 2018;31(1):15-22.

Prevalence of Dyslipidemias in Three Regions in Venezuela: The VEMSOLS Study Results / Prevalência de Dislipidemias em Três Regiões na Venezuela: Resultados do Estudo VEMSOLS

Abstract Background: The prevalence of dyslipidemia in multiple regions of Venezuela is unknown. The Venezuelan Metabolic Syndrome, Obesity and Lifestyle Study (VEMSOLS) was undertaken to evaluate cardiometabolic risk factors in Venezuela. Objective: To determine the prevalence of dyslipidemia in five populations from three regions of Venezuela. Methods: During the years 2006 to 2010, 1320 subjects aged 20 years or older were selected by multistage stratified random sampling from all households in five municipalities from 3 regions of Venezuela: Lara State (Western region), Merida State (Andean region), and Capital District (Capital region). Anthropometric measurements and biochemical analysis were obtained from each participant. Dyslipidemia was defined according to the NCEP/ATPIII definitions. Results: Mean age was 44.8 ± 0.39 years and 68.5% were females. The prevalence of lipids abnormalities related to the metabolic syndrome (low HDL-c [58.6%; 95% CI 54.9 - 62.1] and elevated triglycerides [39.7%; 36.1 - 43.2]) were the most prevalent lipid alterations, followed by atherogenic dyslipidemia (25.9%; 22.7 - 29.1), elevated LDL-c (23.3%; 20.2 - 26.4), hypercholesterolemia (22.2%; 19.2 - 25.2), and mix dyslipidemia (8.9%; 6.8 - 11.0). Dyslipidemia was more prevalent with increasing body mass index. Conclusion: Dyslipidemias are prevalent cardiometabolic risk factors in Venezuela. Among these, a higher prevalence of low HDL is a condition also consistently reported in Latin America.

Resumo Fundamento: A prevalência de dislipidemia em várias regiões da Venezuela é desconhecida. A Síndrome Metabólica venezuelana, Obesidade e Estilo de Vida Estudo (VEMSOLS) foram realizados para avaliar os fatores de risco cardiometabólico na Venezuela. Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de dislipidemia em cinco populações de três regiões da Venezuela. Métodos: Durante os anos de 2006 a 2010, 1320 indivíduos com 20 anos ou mais foram selecionados por amostragem aleatória estratificada de vários estágios de todas as famílias em cinco municípios a partir de 3 regiões da Venezuela: Estado Lara (região Oeste), Estado de Mérida (região andina) e Capital Distrito (região Capital). medidas antropométricas e análise bioquímica foram obtidas de cada participante. Dislipidemia foi definida de acordo com as definições NCEP / ATPIII. Resultados: A idade média foi de 44,8 ± 0,39 anos, e 68,5% eram do sexo feminino. A prevalência de lípidos anormalidades relacionadas à síndrome metabólica (HDL-c baixo [58,6%; IC95% 54,9-62,1] e triglicerídeos elevados [39,7%; 36,1-43,2]) foram as alterações lipídicas mais prevalente, seguida pela dislipidemia aterogênica ( 25,9%; 22,7-29,1), LDL-C elevado (23,3%; 20,2-26,4), hipercolesterolêmica (22,2%; 19,2-25,2), e misturar dislipidemia (8,9%; 6,8-11,0). Dislipidemia foi mais prevalente com o aumento do índice de massa corporal. Conclusão: As dislipidemias são fatores de risco cardiometabólico prevalentes na Venezuela. Entre elas, uma maior prevalência de baixo HDL é uma condição também consistentemente relatada na América Latina.

Determinación del balance hídrico superficial en el suelo, cuenca río Atulapa, modelo de Thorntwaite desarrollado en Python, Esquipulas, Chiquimula, Guatemala / Determination of surface water balance in the soil, Atulapa river basin, Thorntwaite model developed in Python, Esquipulas, Chiquimula, Guatemala

En la región centroamericana, Guatemala comparte junto a Costa Rica, el tercer lugar en lo concerniente a la disponibilidad o volumen de agua. La cuenca del río Atulapa de 42.72 km2 de longitud, localizado en la parte alta del río Lempa, constituye un recurso hídrico de interés trinacional para las repúblicas de El Salvador, Honduras y Guatemala. La cuenca forma parte de la reserva Biosfera Transfronteriza Trifinio Fraternidad; declarada como reserva de biosfera en junio del 2011, por la Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Educación, la Ciencia y la Cultura. Debido a los efectos del cambio climático y utilización de la tierra en la cuenca, ha disminuido la capacidad de retención de agua del suelo, por lo que en el presente estudio se evaluó el balance hídrico del suelo con el modelo de Thornthwaite y Mather. Los métodos y técnicas aplicados permitieron generar y evaluar registros hidrometeorológicos con estaciones digitales instaladas; así como también, la utilización de estaciones locales. Posteriormente, se utilizó un Sistema de Información Geográfica para programar el modelo de balance hídrico en el suelo con Python, simulando la distribución espacial de la precipitación, evapotranspiración potencial y real, contenido de humedad en el suelo, almacenamiento y escorrentía superficial. La textura del suelo y su cobertura permitió determinar la capacidad de retención de humedad. El 85% del territorio de la cuenca posee texturas franco arcillo-arenosas de origen volcánico y cultivo de café. El caudal medio anual en el río Atulapa es 0.59 m3/seg, la precipitación potencial media es 1,916 mm/año, la evapotranspiración real media es 873.08 mm/año, el déficit de disponibilidad de agua del suelo es de 465 mm/año. La variabilidad biofísica de la cuenca del río Atulapa, determinó la dinámica del balance hídrico del suelo.

In the Central American region, Guatemala shares the third place with Costa Rica in water availability or volume. The Atulapa River basin of 42.72 km2 is located in the upper part of the Lempa River, of Trinational interest for Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, within "La Fraternidad" Biosphere Reserve, of the Trifinio Plan declared by Unesco in June 2011. The effects of climate change and land use in the basin diminish the water retention capacity in the soil, the study evaluated the soil wáter balance with the Thornthwaite and Mather model. The methods and techniques included generating hydro meteorological records with installed digital stations, as well as the use of local stations. Later, a Geographic Information System was used to program the Python water balance model simulating the spatial distribution of precipitation, potential and actual evapotranspiration, soil moisture content, storage and surface runoff. The texture of the soil and its coverage allowed determining the capacity of moisture retention, 85% of the territory has clay-sandy franco textures of volcanic origin with coffee plantations. The mean annual rainfall in the Atulapa River is 0.59 m3/sec, the mean potential rainfall is 1.916 mm/year, the average real evapotranspiration is 873.08 mm/year, and the water availability deficit in the soil is 465 mm/year. The biophysical variability of the Atulapa river basin determined the dynamics of the soil water balance.

Prevalencia de prediabetes y diabetes mellitus en la región de Zulia, Venezuela: resultados preliminares del estudio EVESCAM / Prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes mellitus in the Zulia region, Venezuela: preliminary results of the EVESCAM study

Determinar la prevalencia de prediabetes y de Diabetes Mellitus (DM) en el estado Zulia, Venezuela. Métodos: se realizó un estudio poblacional, aleatorio, descriptivo utilizando los datos del Estudio Venezolano de la Salud Cardiometabólica (EVESCAM) de la región zuliana incluyendo 525 sujetos adultos de ambos géneros. Se aplicó una encuesta sobre factores de riesgo, antecedentes de DM, se registró peso, talla, índice de masa corporal (IMC) kg/m2, circunferencia de cintura en cm (CC) y presión arterial. Se les tomó muestra de sangre para determinación de glucemia, perfil lipídico y prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa (PTG). Los resultados presentados en tablas y figuras utilizando promedios y desviación estándar, procesados con programa estadístico SSPS, la prevalencia fue calculada y ajustada por edad y sexo, fijando un valor alfa menor de 0,05 (P<0,05) como significativo. Resultados: En total 404 sujetos completaron la evaluación: 126 (31,1%) hombres y 278 (68,8 %) mujeres, con edad promedio de 49,6 ± 15,8 años, Glucemia basal: 108,5 ± 28,9 y PTG a las 2 horas 120,6 ± 37,2 mg/dl. La prevalencia de diabetes ajustada por edad y sexo resultó de 16,0%; 19,9% en hombres y 12,1% en mujeres (P = 0,029) y para Prediabetes 58,5%; 65,8% en hombres y 51,3% en mujeres (P= 0,005). Conclusiones: La población zuliana presentó elevada prevalencia de prediabetes y diabetes mellitus. Urge la necesidad de intervención a través de programas de prevención que detengan su avance(AU)

To determine the prevalence of prediabetes and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in the State of Zulia, Venezuela. Methods: A clinical, randomized, descriptive study was conducted using data from the Venezuelan Cardio-Metabolic Health Study (EVESCAM) of the Zulian region, including 525 adults of both genders. A risk factors questionnaire, history of DM, weight, height, body mass index (BMI) kg/m2, waist circumference in cm (CC), and blood pressure were measured. Blood samples were taken to determine of Glycaemia, lipid profile, and glucose tolerance test (GTT). Results were presented in tables and figures using averages and standard deviation, analyzed with the software SSPS statistical program, prevalence was calculated and adjusted by age and sex, alpha value lower than 0.05 (P <0.05) was considered significant. Results: A total of 404 subjects completed the evaluation: 126 (31.1%) men and 278 (68.8%) women, with a mean age of 49.6 ± 15.8 years; baseline glycaemia were 108.5 ± 28,9 and GTT 120.6 ± 37.2 mg/dl. The age-standardized diabetes prevalence was 16.0%; 19.9% in men and 12.1% in women (P = 0.029); and the age-standarized prevalence of prediabetes was 58.5%; 65.8 in men and 51.3 in women (P =0.005). Conclusions: Zulia´s population presented a high prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes mellitus. To implement an intervention program to halt it´s progress is of urgent need(AU)

Prevalencia de dislipidemias en la región capital: resultados preliminares del estudio EVESCAM / Prevalence of dyslipidemias in the capital region: preliminary results of the EVESCAM study

Las dislipidemias son un factor de riesgo para enfermedades cardiovasculares. Se desconoce la prevalencia actual de dislipidemias en la región Capital de Venezuela. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de dislipidemias en adultos de la región capital evaluados en el estudio EVESCAM. Métodos: Estudio poblacional, observacional, transversal de muestreo aleatorio poliestratificado por conglomerados. Se evaluaron 7 comunidades de la Región Capital desde julio de 2015 hasta enero de 2016: El Retiro; Miranda Casco Central y Bello Campo; Los Teques: La Cima; Guatire: Centro y Castillejo y rural: Guatire: La Candelaria. Participaron 416 sujetos desde los 20 años de edad. Los puntos de corte para definir las dislipidemias fueron hipoalfalipoproteinemia: colesterol HDL < 40 mg/dL; hipertrigliceridemia: triglicéridos (TG) ≥ 150 mg/dL; hipercolesterolemia: colesterol total ≥ 200 mg/dL; colesterol LDL elevado: colesterol LDL ≥ de 130 mg/dL; dislipidemia aterogénica: TG ≥ 150 mg/dL más colesterol HDL bajo (mujeres: < 40 mg/dl y hombres: < 50 mg/dl). Las frecuencias se expresaron en porcentajes y se aplicó el estadístico Chi cuadrado, un valor de p < 0,05 fue considerado como estadísticamente significativo. Resultados: La dislipidemia con mayor prevalencia fue la hipoalfalipoproteinemia (67.1%) seguida de la LDLc elevada (20%), hipercolesterolemia (17,1%), hipertrigliceridemia (12,0%) y por último dislipidemia aterogenica (9,4%). La hipoalfalipoproteinemia, fue mayor en hombres que en mujeres (81,6% y 60,8%; respectivamente, p < 0,001) presentándose con mayor prevalencia en el grupo etario de 20 a 40 años al contrario del resto de las dislipidemias. Conclusión: La hipoalfalipoproteinemia persiste como la dislipidemia más prevalente de la región(AU)

Dyslipidemias are a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The current prevalence of dyslipidemias in the Capital Region of Venezuela is unknown. Objective: To determine the prevalence of dyslipidemias in adults from the capital region of Venezuela evaluated in the EVESCAM study. Methods: apopulation based, observational, cross-sectional, and cluster sampling study was desing. Seven communities from the Capital Region were evaluated from July 2015 to January 2016: El Retiro; Miranda- Chacao: Casco Central y Bello Campo; Los Teques: La Cima; Guatire: Centro y Castillejo y Rural: Guatire: Candelaria. 416 subjects were included. Dyslipidemias was define as hypoalphalipoproteinemia: HDL cholesterol <40 mg/ dL; hypertriglyceridemia: triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL; hypercholesterolemia: total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL; High LDL cholesterol: ≥ 130 mg/dL; therogenic dyslipidemia: triglycerides ≥ 150 mg / dL and low HDL cholesterol (women: <40 mg / dl and men: <50 mg / dl). The frequencies were expressed as percentages and Chi-square test was applied to assess differences. The level of statistical significance accepted was a p-value < 0.05. Results: The most prevalent dyslipidemia was hypoalphalipoproteinemia (67.1%) followed by elevated LDLc (20%), hypercholesterolemia (17.1%), hypertriglyceridemia (12.0%), and atherogenic dyslipidemia (9.4%). Hypoalphalipoproteinemia was higher in men than women (81.6% and 60.8%, respectively, p <0.001), with a higher prevalence at the age group of 20 to 40 years, unlike the rest of dyslipidemias. Conclusion: The hypoalphalipoproteinemia persists as the most prevalent dyslipidemia in the region(AU)

Estudio venezolano de salud cardio-metabólica (EVESCAM): resultados generales presentados en el XVII congreso venezolano de medicina interna 2017 / Venezuelan study of cardio-metabolic health (EVESCAM): General results presented at the XVII Congress Venezuelan Internal medicine 2017

Ningún estudio ha evaluado la prevalencia nacional de factores de riesgo cardiometabólico en Venezuela. Objetivo: El EVESCAM (Estudio Venezolano de Salud Cardio-Metabólica) fue diseñado para evaluar la prevalencia de los factores de riesgo cardiometabólico en sujetos con ≥ 20 años de las 8 regiones del país. Métodos: Estudio transversal, fueron reclutados un total de 4,454 participantes entre julio de 2014 y febrero de 2017, usando un muestreo multi-etápico estratificado por conglomerados. Fueron evaluados 3,445 (tasa de respuesta 77,3%), con una pérdida de datos de sólo 0,7%, para una muestra final de 3,420 participantes. Los datos fueron recolectados en los hogares y en centros de campo de la comunidad por personal entrenado. Luego de firmar el consentimiento informado, se aplicaron cuestionarios (clínicos, demográficos, actividad física, nutricionales y psicológicos), medidas antropométricas (peso, altura y circunferencia abdominal), grasa corporal por bioimpedancia, fuerza de aprehensión de la mano, presión arterial, electrocardiograma y mediciones bioquímicas (Prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa oral y perfil lipídico(AU)

Neurosífilis: un problema antiguo que no pierde actualidad / Neurosyphilis: an Age-old Problem that is Still Relevant Today

Resumen La neurosífilis es una presentación clínica de la sífilis y puede suceder en estadios tempranos o tardíos de la infección. Aunque el tratamiento específico para todas las formas clínicas de la sífilis existe desde hace mucho tiempo, los estadios avanzados de la enfermedad aún son prevalentes, con las secuelas neurológicas irreversibles que ocasionan. Este artículo revisa la evidencia actual, los métodos diagnósticos y el tratamiento específico para la sífilis terciaria.

Abstract Neurosyphilis is the clinical manifestation of syphilis that can arise during either the early or late stages of infection. Even though dedicated treatment for all clinical forms of syphilis has been available for many years, the advanced stages of the disease are still prevalent, with irreversible sequelae. This article reviews the current evidence, diagnostic methods and specific treatment for tertiary syphilis.

Chimo, a smokeless tobacco preparation, is associated with a higher frequency of type 2 diabetes / Chimó, una preparación de tabaco sin humo, está asociada con una elevada frecuencia de diabetes mellitus tipo 2

The relationship between smokeless tobacco (ST) use and type-2 diabetes (T2D) has only been reported in Swedish men, though with contradictory results. In Venezuela, chimó is the most common ST preparation. The relationship between chimó and T2D in Venezuela is unknown. The objective of the study was to evaluate the relationship between chimó use and T2D in a population with high prevalence of ST use in the Andes region of Venezuela. An observational, cross-sectional, correlational study was designed. During 2013-2014, 759 consecutive subjects aged 20 years or older were evaluated in a medical center. Anthropometric measurements and responses to a standard questionnaire were obtained. Blood glucose and lipid concentrations were measured. The mean age was 53.1 years, 58% were female, and 24.1% reported ST use. ST use was more frequent in men than women (32.9% vs. 17.7%; p < 0.001). ST users showed lower body mass index (BMI), body fat and total cholesterol, but a higher frequency of T2D, than non-ST users. Logistic regression analysis, adjusted by age, family history of T2D, and hypertriglyceridemia, demonstrated that ST use was associated with an increased odd for T2D by 77% (OR 1.77; 95% CI 1.15 - 2.72) among ST-users. In conclusion, chimó, a ST form frequently used in the Andes region of Venezuela, is associated with a higher frequency of T2D and lower fat mass. Implications of these findings are discussed.

La relación entre el uso de tabaco no inhalado (TBNI) y la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) ha sido únicamente reportada en hombres de Suecia, con resultados contradictorios. En Venezuela, el chimó es la preparación más común de TBNI. La relación entre el chimó y la DM2 en Venezuela es desconocida. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la relación entre el uso de chimó y la DM2 en una población con elevada prevalencia de uso de TBNI en la región de los Andes de Venezuela. Se diseñó un estudio observacional, transversal, tipo correlacional. Durante 2013-2014, 759 sujetos de 20 o más años fueron evaluados de forma consecutiva en un centro médico. La edad promedio fue 53,1 años, 58% fueron mujeres y 24,1% reportó uso de TBNI. El uso de TBNI fue más frecuente en hombres que en mujeres (32,9% vs. 17,7%; p < 0,001). Los consumidores de TBNI mostraron menor índice de masa corporal (IMC), grasa corporal y colesterol total, pero mayor frecuencia de DM2 que los no consumidores de TBNI. El análisis de regresión logística ajustado por edad, historia familiar de DM2 e hipertrigliceridemia, demostró que el uso de TBNI se asoció con un incremento de 77% de probabilidad de presentar DM2 (OR 1,77; 95% CI 1,15 - 2,72). En conclusión, el chimó, una forma de TBNI frecuentemente usada en la región de los Andes de Venezuela, está asociada con una mayor frecuencia de DM2 y con una menor masa grasa. Se discuten las implicaciones de este hallazgo.

O Chimó, uma Preparação de Tabaco sem Fumaça, está Associado a uma Frequência mais Baixa de Hipertensão em Indivíduos com Diabetes Tipo 2 / Chimó, a Smokeless Tobacco Preparation, is Associated With a Lower Frequency of Hypertension in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes

Fundamentos: O uso do tabaco e a hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) são as principais causas preveníveis de morte a nível global. O tabaco é apresentado nas formas com ou sem fumaça (TSF). O uso do TSF tem sido relacionado à doença cardiovascular, diabetes tipo 2 (DM2) e câncer. Na Venezuela, o chimó é a preparação de TSF mais comum e a sua relação com a HAS é desconhecida. Objetivo: Avaliar a relação entre o uso de chimó e HAS em uma população com alta prevalência de uso de TSF na Venezuela. Métodos: Entre 2013-2014, um total de 1.938 indivíduos com 20 anos ou mais foram avaliados consecutivamente em um centro médico. Foram obtidas medidas antropométricas e de pressão arterial (PA), além de respostas a um questionário padrão. Resultados: Os participantes tinham uma média de idade de 49,2 anos, 59,5% eram do sexo feminino, 38,9% apresentavam HAS, 23,2% relataram uso de TSF e 11,6% relataram ter DM2. Um terço dos indivíduos com DM2 eram usuários de TSF, e este grupo mostrou valores mais baixos de frequência cardíaca, PA sistólica, índice de massa corporal (IMC) e frequência de HAS quando comparado a sujeitos com DM2 não usuários de TSF (p < 0,05). Em indivíduos com DM2 com 50 anos ou mais, o uso de TSF foi associado a uma frequência 69% mais baixa de HAS quando comparados a indivíduos que não usavam TSF. Em regressão logística ajustada pela frequência cardíaca, idade, ocorrência de DM2, sobrepeso/obesidade e história familiar de HAS, o uso de TSF esteve associado a uma frequência 30% mais baixa de HAS (razão de chances 0,70; intervalo de confiança de 95% 0,55 - 0,90). Conclusão: O chimó, um TSF frequentemente utilizado na região dos Andes na Venezuela, está associado a valores mais baixos de PA, frequência cardíaca, IMC e frequência mais baixa de HAS em indivíduos com DM2 com mais de 50 anos. Esta associação contraintuitiva negativa entre o chimó e alguns fatores de risco cardiometabólicos realça o caráter complexo destas relações e a necessidade de estudos adicionais

Background: Tobacco use and hypertension are leading preventable causes of death globally. Tobacco is presented as smoked or smokeless tobacco (ST). ST use has been related to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cancer. In Venezuela, chimó is the most common ST preparation, and its relationship with hypertension is unknown. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between chimó use and hypertension in a population with a high prevalence of ST use in Venezuela. Methods: From 2013-2014, a total of 1,938 consecutive subjects aged 20 years or older were evaluated in a medical center. Anthropometrics and blood pressure (BP) measurements, and responses to a standard questionnaire were obtained. Results: The participants had a mean age of 49.2 years, 59.5% were female, 38.9% had hypertension, 23.2% reported ST use, and 11.6% reported having T2D. One-third of the subjects with T2D were ST users, and this group showed lower heart rate, systolic BP, body mass index (BMI), and frequency of hypertension when compared with T2D subjects who were not ST users (p < 0.05). In subjects with T2D who were 50 years or older, ST use was associated with a 69% lower frequency of hypertension when compared with subjects without ST use. On logistic regression adjusted by heart rate, age, occurrence of T2D, overweight/obesity, and family history of hypertension, ST use was associated with a 30% lower frequency of hypertension (odds ratio 0.70; 95% confidence interval 0.55 ­ 0.90). Conclusion: Chimó, a ST frequently used in the Andes region of Venezuela, is associated with lower BP, heart rate, BMI, and frequency of hypertension in subjects with T2D older than 50 years. This counter-intuitive negative association of chimó with some cardiometabolic risk factors highlights the complex nature of these relationships and the need for further studies