Consumption of medicinal plants and herbal medicines by children and adolescents with chronic conditions: a survey in a tertiary-care outpatient clinic / Utilização de plantas medicinais e derivados por crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas: levantamento em um serviço pediátrico terciário

Objectives: Medicinal plants and herbal medicines are widely used worldwide. However, patients with chronic health conditions or their caregivers do not often disclose these practices to their healthcare providers, leading to potentially severe interactions with current treatments, especially in children. We aimed to describe the prevalence of the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines by children and adolescents with chronic health conditions and whether their physicians were informed about it. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional electronic survey on parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with chronic health conditions seen at a university, tertiary-care pediatric outpatient clinic. The common names of the plants cited by respondents were reviewed and Latin names of the species were provided whenever possible. Results: From 20,213 text messages sent in May and June 2021, 521 valid responses were obtained. The prevalence of the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines was 34.6%, most without a medical prescription (self-medication), and few physicians (4.0%) were aware of it. The five most used species were: Mentha spicata L. (mint), Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (fennel), "cidreira" (a common name possibly corresponding to Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Melissa officinalis L. or Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E. Br. ex Britton & Wilson, P.), Matricaria chamomilla L. (German chamomile), and Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (boldo). Conclusions: The prevalence of the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines by children and adolescents with chronic health conditions in a tertiary-care outpatient clinic was 34.6%, and only a few physicians were aware of it (AU).

Objetivos: Plantas medicinais e seus derivados são amplamente utilizados no mundo todo. Entretanto, pacientes com condições crônicas de saúde ou seus cuidadores frequentemente não informam essas práticas para seus profissionais de saúde, levando a interações potencialmente graves com os demais tratamentos, especialmente em crianças. Nós objetivamos descrever a prevalência do uso de plantas medicinais e derivados por crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas de saúde, e se seus médicos foram informados sobre isto. Métodos: Levantamento eletrônico transversal junto a pais e cuidadores de crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas de saúde atendidos em um serviço ambulatorial pediátrico universitário terciário. Os nomes comuns das plantas citadas pelos participantes foram revisados e os nomes latinos das espécies foram identificados, sempre que possível. Resultados: De 20.213 mensagens de texto enviadas em maio e junho de 2021, 521 respostas válidas foram obtidas. A prevalência de utilização de plantas medicinais e derivados foi de 34,6%, sendo a maioria sem prescrição médica (automedicação), e poucos médicos (4,0%) estavam cientes disto. As cinco plantas mais comumente utilizadas foram: Mentha spicata L. (hortelã), Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (funcho), "cidreira" (possivelmente correspondendo a Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Melissa officinalis L. ou Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E. Br. ex Britton & Wilson, P.), Matricaria chamomilla L. (camomila) e Plectranthus barbatus Andrews (boldo nacional). Conclusões: A prevalência de uso de plantas medicinais e derivados por crianças e adolescentes com condições crônicas de saúde em um serviço ambulatorial pediátrico terciário foi de 34,6%, com grande potencial para interações, e somente poucos médicos estavam cientes disto

Growth phenotypes of very low birth weight infants for prediction of neonatal outcomes from a Brazilian cohort: comparison with INTERGROWTH

Abstract Objective: To assess the predictive value of selected growth phenotypes for neonatal morbidity and mortality in preterm infants < 30 weeks and to compare them with INTERGROWTH-21st (IG21). Methods: Retrospective analysis of data from the Brazilian Neonatal Research Network (BNRN) database for very low birth weight (VLBW) at 20 public tertiary-care university hospitals. Outcome: the composite neonatal morbidity and mortality (CNMM) consisted of in-hospital death, oxygen use at 36 weeks, intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 or 4, and Bell stage 2 or 3 necrotizing enterocolitis. Selected growth phenotypes: small-for-gestational-age (SGA) defined as being < 3rd (SGA3) or 10th (SGA10) percentiles of BW, and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) as being > 97th percentile of BW. Stunting as being < 3rd percentile of the length and wasting as being < 3rd percentile of BMI. Single and multiple log-binomial regression models were fitted to estimate the relative risks of CNMM, comparing them to IG21. Results: 4,072 infants were included. The adjusted relative risks of CNMM associated with selected growth phenotypes were (BNRN/IG21): 1.45 (0.92-2.31)/1.60 (1.27-2.02) for SGA; 0.90 (0.55-1.47)/1.05 (0.55-1.99) for LGA; 1.65 (1.08-2.51)/1.58 (1.28-1.96) for stunting; and 1.48 (1.02-2.17) for wasting. Agreement between the two references was variable. The growth phenotypes had good specificity (>95%) and positive predictive value (70-90%), with poor sensitivity and low negative predictive value. Conclusion: The BNRN phenotypes at birth differed markedly from the IG21 standard and showed poor accuracy in predicting adverse neonatal outcomes.

Implementation of a standardized handoff system (I-PASS) in a tertiary care pediatric hospital / Implementação de um sistema padronizado de passagem de plantão (I-PASS) em um hospital terciário pediátrico

Abstract Objective: The handoff is the act of transferring information and responsibility among healthcare providers, and it is critical for the patient safety and the quality of service. The aim of this study was to evaluate the implementation of a standardized medical handoff system [I-PASS (Illness severity, Patient summary, Action list, Situation awareness and contingency planning, Synthesis by receiver)] and assess the effect on the amount and quality of the information transmitted during medical handoffs in a pediatric ward. Methods: In a prospective intervention study, physicians (staff and residents) who work in 12- or 24-h shifts in the pediatric ward of a single tertiary care Brazilian hospital were eligible. Those who agreed to participate were trained in an online session (lecture plus simulation). Medical handoffs were recorded pre- and post-intervention (training) to compare the amount and quality of information transmitted in handoffs. Results: The handoff standardization significantly increased the number of relevant information delivered for 12 out of the 16 items assessed without increasing, in seconds, the handoff duration (45.9 vs. 48.0; p=0.349). The protocol training and the following discussion about communication resulted in greater focus and attention among participants during transfers, decreasing time spent with interruptions and communication unrelated to the patient (18 vs. 2.7%). Regarding the I-PASS elements, there was an increase in the number of action lists and contingency plans reported (31 vs. 81% and 16 vs. 73%, respectively; p<0.001 for both). Conclusion: Standardization brought greater efficiency and objectivity to handoffs. It increased the quantity and quality of the information transmitted while successfully drawing attention to the most important points.

RESUMO Objetivo: A passagem de plantão, ato de transferir informações e responsabilidade entre os médicos, é um dos elementos-chave para a qualidade do serviço prestado e a segurança do paciente. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a implantação de um sistema padronizado de passagem de plantão (Illness severity, Patient summary, Action list, Situation awareness and contingency planning, Synthesis by receiver — I-PASS) e avaliar o efeito sobre a quantidade de informações transmitidas em passagens de plantão de uma enfermaria pediátrica. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo de intervenção da implementação de um sistema padronizado de passagem de plantão (I-PASS). Foram realizadas gravações das passagens de plantão em período pré- e pós-intervenção. O treinamento dos médicos que participam das escalas de plantão foi feito em módulo teórico-prático, com o auxílio de plataformas digitais. Resultados: A padronização da passagem de plantão resultou em aumento do número de informações relevantes, entregues em 12 dos 16 itens pesquisados, sem aumentar a duração em segundos da transferência (45,9 vs. 48,0; p=0,349). O treinamento do protocolo aliado à discussão sobre estratégias de comunicação implicou maior foco e atenção durante as passagens, reduzindo o tempo gasto com interrupções e comunicações que não se referiam ao paciente (18 vs. 2,7%). No que se refere aos elementos do I-PASS, houve acréscimo na citação de pendências (31 vs. 81%, p < 0,001) e plano de contingenciamento (16 vs. 73%, p < 0,001). Conclusão: A padronização da passagem de plantão trouxe maior eficiência ao processo no que se refere a número de informações transmitidas, objetividade na transferência e atenção aos pontos importantes.

Why are pediatricians uncomfortable with prescribing emergency contraception for adolescents? / Por que os pediatras têm desconforto para prescrever contracepção de emergência para adolescentes?

Abstract Objective: Emergency contraception (EC) is an effective and safe method for preventing unplanned pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse among adolescents but is infrequently prescribed by pediatricians. Because of the scarcity of data on the discomfort with EC prescription among physicians in Brazil, this study aimed to identify associated factors with discomfort with EC prescription among pediatricians in the state of Amazonas. Methods: A web-based, cross-sectional study including sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and discomfort with EC prescription was used. Multivariate logistic regression and artificial intelligence methods such as decision tree and random forest analysis were used to identify factors associated with discomfort with EC prescriptions. Results: Among 151 physicians who responded to the survey, 53.0% were uncomfortable with prescribing EC, whereas only 33.1% had already prescribed it. Inexperience was significantly associated with discomfort with EC prescription (odds ratio 4.47, 95% confidence interval 1.71-11.66). Previous EC prescription was protective against discomfort with EC prescription in the three models. Conclusions: EC is still infrequently prescribed by pediatricians because of inexperience and misconceptions. Training these professionals needs to be implemented as part of public health policies to reduce unplanned adolescent pregnancy.

RESUMO Objetivo: A contracepção de emergência (CE) é um método eficaz e seguro para prevenir gravidez não planejada após relação sexual desprotegida entre adolescentes, mas raramente prescrito por pediatras. Diante da escassez de dados sobre o desconforto com a prescrição de CE entre médicos no Brasil, o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar fatores associados a esse desconforto entre pediatras do estado do Amazonas. Métodos: Uma pesquisa do tipo e-survey coletou dados sociodemográficos, conhecimento, atitudes e desconforto com relação à prescrição de CE. Métodos de regressão logística multivariada e inteligência artificial, como árvore de decisão e random forest, foram usados para identificar fatores associados ao desconforto para a prescrição de CE. Resultados: Entre os 151 médicos que responderam à pesquisa, 53,0% sentiam-se desconfortáveis para prescrever CE e apenas 33,1% já a haviam prescrito. A inexperiência foi associada a esse desconforto (odds ratio — OR 4,47, intervalo de confiança — IC95% 1,71-11,66). A prescrição prévia de CE foi fator de proteção com relação ao desconforto nos três modelos. Conclusões: A CE ainda é pouco prescrita por pediatras. Apesar de sua segurança e eficácia, a inexperiência e conceitos equivocados foram associados ao desconforto para sua prescrição. Investigações sobre o assunto são importantes para subsidiar políticas públicas de saúde para a redução da gravidez não intencional na adolescência.

Sanitary measures to contain COVID-19 spread decreased pediatric hospitalizations due to other respiratory infections in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract Objective After the Covid-19 pandemics hit Brazil and sanitary measures were adopted to contain its dissemination, pediatric hospital admissions were apparently fewer than usual. The authors aimed to describe the time trends of public hospital admissions of children and adolescents due to respiratory infections (RIs) in São Paulo State, Brazil, before and after the adoption of sanitary measures to contain the dissemination of Covid-19. Methods Ecological, time-series study on the monthly average number of admissions per day of children and adolescents (< 16 years) admitted to public hospitals of São Paulo due to acute RIs between January 2008 and March 2021. Data from 2008 to 2019 were used to adjust the statistical model, while data from 2020 and 2021 were compared to the values predicted by the model. Results In 2020 and 2021, the number of hospital admissions was significantly lower than predicted by the time series. However, lethality was three times higher in these years, compared to the previous, and six times higher in patients with Covid-19, compared to those without the disease. Hospitalization costs in 2020 and 2021 were lower than in previous years. Conclusions These findings suggest that the sanitary measures adopted to contain the dissemination of Covid-19 also effectively reduce the transmission of other respiratory viruses. Policymakers and administrators can use this knowledge as a guide to planning preventative interventions that could decrease the number and severity of RIs and related hospital admissions in children and adolescents, decreasing the burden on the public health system.

Central venous oxygen saturation/lactate ratio and prediction of major adverse events after pediatric heart surgery

Abstract Introduction: Major adverse events (MAE) are unexpected but undesirably frequent after pediatric congenital heart surgery and contribute to poorer outcomes. The aim of this study was to test the predictive value of a ratio between central venous oxygen saturation and arterial lactate (ScvO2/lactate) for MAE after pediatric congenital heart surgery in a Brazilian university hospital. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study in a tertiary care university hospital, including 194 infants and children submitted to surgery for congenital heart disease. The predictive value of ScvO2, lactate, and ScvO2/lactate ratio were assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). Results: The incidence of MAE was 16% — cardiac arrest/death, unplanned reoperation, and low cardiac output syndrome were the most common events. Overall, ScvO2/lactate ratio discriminated patients with and without MAE very well (AUC 0.842), performing better than either variable alone, with sensitivity of 48%, specificity of 94%, PPV of 60%, and NPV of 91%. Conclusion: A ScvO2/lactate ratio > 5 can accurately identify patients at low risk of MAE after pediatric congenital heart surgery, with very good specificity and NPV, but poor sensitivity and PPV.

Weight/length ratio references and newborn body composition estimation at birth from a Brazilian cohort

Abstract Objectives: The objective was to calculate weight/length (W/L) ratio values and percentiles by sex and gestational age (GA) to estimate fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM) and body fat percentage (BF%) as well as to compare these indices in preterm, small (SGA), and large (LGA) for GA, stunted and wasted infants from a Brazilian cohort of newborns, comparing with the INTERGROWTH-21st. Methods: Secondary, cross-sectional analysis of data obtained of 7427 live-born infants from the BRISA Cohort Study in the city of Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil in 2010. For body composition estimation, W/L ratio was used in multiple regression models. The 3rd, 50th, and 97th percentiles for W/L ratio and body composition measures (FM, FFM, and BF%) were calculated using fractional polynomial regression models. Results: Average W/L ratio was 6.50 kg/m (SD 0.87), while for FM, BF%, and FFM the corresponding values were 359.64 g (145.76), 10.90% (3.05) and 2798.84 g (414.84), respectively. SGA (< 3rd percentile), and wasted infants showed the lowest W/L ratios and measures of body composition. The 3rd, 50th, and 97th percentiles charts of W/L, FM, BF%, and FFM by GA and sex are presented. Conclusions: W/L ratio values of the RP-BRISA Cohort are higher than IG-21st. SGA (< 3rd) and wasted infants showed the lowest W/L ratio and measures of body composition. The body composition references presented here could be used to refine the nutritional assessment of Brazilian newborns and to facilitate comparisons across populations.

Impacto prognóstico das complicações ocorridas durante o transporte de crianças gravemente doentes / Prognostic impact of complications during transport of critically ill children

Objetivo: o transporte de crianças gravemente doentes envolve particularidades que aumentam o risco de complicações. O objetivo foi investigar o impacto de complicações registradas durante o transporte na mortalidade geral e na taxa de alta hospitalar. Método: estudo realizado em duas etapas. A primeira foi um estudo transversal, no qual, através de entrevista padronizada, dirigida ao médico que admitiu essas crianças, foram identificadas potenciais complicações ocorridas durante o transporte. Três médicos independentes auditaram esses dados. A segunda etapa foi uma coorte prospectiva onde os pacientes divididos em dois grupos (com e sem complicações no transporte) foram seguidos prospectivamente. Resultados: 143 crianças foram incluídas no estudo. Pelo menos uma complicação durante o transporte foi observada em 74 delas (52%). A complicação mais prevalente foi relacionada a falhas no monitoramento e nos dispositivos (42%). A ocorrência de complicações no transporte foi associada a maior mortalidade hospitalar (Hazard ratio - HR): 5,60; intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%): 1,26 - 26,65; p=0,013) e a menor taxa de alta hospitalar (HR: 0,48; IC95%: 0,31 - 0,74; p = 0,0007). Após regressão de Cox para ajuste de fatores de confusão, a presença de complicações permaneceu associada à mortalidade hospitalar (HR: 6,74; IC95%: 1,40 - 32,34); p = 0,017), porém deixou de se associar com a taxa de alta hospitalar (HR: 0,76; IC95%: 0,49 - 1,16; p=0,213). Conclusão: presença de complicações durante o transporte pediátrico foi frequente na região metropolitana de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil. A ocorrência de complicações foi um preditor independente de mortalidade hospitalar.

Aims: Transport of critically ill children involves particularities that increase the risk of complications. The objective was to investigate the impact of these complications recorded during transport on overall mortality and hospital discharge rate. Method: Two-step study: the first was a cross-sectional study, in which, through standardized interviews with the doctor who admitted these children, potential complications during transport were identified. Three independent doctors audited this data. The second step was a prospective cohort, where patients divided into two groups (with and without transport complications) were followed prospectively. Results: One hundred and forty-three children were included in the study. At least one complication during transport was observed in 74 of them (52%). The most frequent complication was related to monitoring and device failures (42%). The occurrence of transport complications was associated with higher hospital mortality (Hazard ratio (HR): 5.60; 95% confidence interval (95%CI: 1.26 - 26.65; p = 0.013) and the lowest hospital discharge rate (HR: 0.48; 95%CI: 0.31 - 0.74; p = 0.0007). After Cox regression to adjust for confounding factors, the presence of complications remained associated with hospital mortality (HR: 6.74; 95%CI: 1.40 - 32.34; p = 0.017), but no remained associated with hospital discharge rate (HR: 0.76; 95%CI: 0.49 - 1.16; p = 0.213). Conclusion: The presence of complications during pediatric transport was frequent in metropolitan region of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. The occurrence of complications was an independent predictor for hospital mortality.

Disseminating health evidence summaries to increase evidence use in health care

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To verify whether an intervention based on disseminating health evidence summaries by e-mail to health professionals increases access to health evidence databases, and whether health professionals intend to apply the evidence received by e-mail in their clinical practice. METHODS: This quantitative study started with a survey to collect demographic data and patterns of access to health evidence databases. It was followed by a longitudinal intervention, over 48 weeks, that disseminated 143 health evidence summaries to 339 health professionals with higher education degree who work in the Brazilian Unified Health System. In the longitudinal intervention phase, health professionals voluntarily assessed the received health evidence summaries using the information assessment method. Finally, the study concluded with a survey to identify changes in accessing health evidence databases. RESULTS: Of the 339 Brazilian health professionals participating in this research, 90 (26.5%) answered the initial and final surveys. After 48 weeks, there was an increase in the use of health evidence databases; 186 (54.9%) participants submitted 7,942 assessments of health evidence summaries, which were relevant for patient care in 5,409 (68%) assessments. CONCLUSIONS: The dissemination of health evidence summaries by e-mail to health professionals in Brazil increases the reported use of evidence in clinical practice.

Neuroprotective anesthesia regimen and intensive management for pediatric cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass: a review and initial experience

Abstract This article describes our proposal for routine anesthesia, intraoperative medical management, cerebral and physiological monitoring during pediatric cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass that intend to provide appropriate anesthesia (analgesia, hypnosis), neuroprotection, adequate cerebral and systemic oxygen supply, and preventing against drugs neurotoxicity. A concise retrospective data is presented.

Collaborative quality improvement in the congenital heart defects: development of the assist consortium and a preliminary surgical outcomes report

Abstract Objective: ASSIST is the first Brazilian initiative in building a collaborative quality improvement program in pediatric cardiology and congenital heart disease. The purposes of this manuscript are: (a) to describe the development of the ASSIST project, including the historical, philosophical, organizational, and infrastructural components that will facilitate collaborative quality improvement in congenital heart disease care; (b) to report past and ongoing challenges faced; and (c) to report the first preliminary data analysis. Methods: A total of 614 operations were prospectively included in a comprehensive online database between September 2014 and December 2015 in two participating centers. Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery (RACHS) 1 and Aristotle Basic Complexity (ABC) scores were obtained. Descriptive statistics were provided, and the predictive values of the two scores for mortality were calculated by multivariate logistic regression models. Results: Many barriers and challenges were faced and overcome. Overall mortality was 13.4%. Independent predictors of in-hospital death were: RACHS-1 categories (3, 4, and 5/6), ABC level 4, and age group (≤ 30 days, and 30 days - 1 year). Conclusion: The ASSIST project was successfully created over a solid base of collaborative work. The main challenges faced, and overcome, were lack of institutional support, funding, computational infrastructure, dedicated staff, and trust. RACHS-1 and ABC scores performed well in our case mix. Our preliminary outcome analysis shows opportunities for improvement.

Intervenção nutricional pré-operatória e a evolução de crianças submetidas à cirurgia cardíaca para correção de cardiopatias congênitas: estudo piloto / Preoperative nutritional intervention and the evolution of children submitted to cardiac surgery for the correction of congenital heart diseases: a pilot study

Introdução: O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar se lactentes e crianças submetidas à correção cirúrgica de cardiopatias congênitas com circulação extracorpórea com melhor evolução pósoperatória tiveram melhores parâmetros nutricionais antes da cirurgia. Método: Trata-se de um estudo piloto, clínico prospectivo, intervencionista, não-controlado, que incluiu 11 crianças com idade > 30 dias e ≤ 5 anos, com cardiopatia congênita, divididas em dois grupos, de acordo com a duração da internação e o índice de massa corporal (IMC) no dia da alta hospitalar. Os pacientes receberam orientação nutricional para atingir o aporte energético e, quando necessário, foi utilizada suplementação com fórmula láctea. Dados gerais, antropométricos, ingestão calórica e proteica, exames laboratoriais, avaliação da composição corporal (por meio do ângulo de fase) foram obtidos. Resultados: A intervenção nutricional levou à melhora dos parâmetros nutricionais no período pré-operatório dos pacientes, porém não foi possível demonstrar efeitos sobre os principais desfechos pós-operatórios, pois não encontramos diferença significativa quanto ao peso e valor de ângulo de fase após a intervenção nutricional. Contudo, encontramos aumento significativo do IMC no período pré-operatório no grupo em que houve menor tempo de internação na UTI pediátrica. Conclusão: Podemos concluir que o adequado estado nutricional de crianças cardiopatas prévio à correção cirúrgica é fundamental para a boa evolução pós-operatória. A avaliação e intervenção nutricional prévias à cirurgia são de extrema importância, pois têm como objetivo otimizar a recuperação e minimizar o tempo de estadia hospitalar.(AU)

Introduction: The objective of this research was to investigate whether infants and children undergoing surgical correction of congenital heart disease with cardiopulmonary bypass with better postoperative outcomes have had better nutritional conditions before surgery. Methods: It is a study prospective pilot clinical, interventional, uncontrolled study, which included 11 children aged > 30 days and ≤ 5 years, with congenital heart disease, divided into two groups according to hospital length-of-stay and the body mass index (BMI) at hospital discharge. The patients received dietary guidance to reach the energy requirements and, when necessary, supplementary milk formula was used. Demographic, anthropometric, and caloric date, and protein intake, lab tests, and assessment of body composition (through the phase angle), were obtained. Results: Nutritional intervention led to improvements in nutritional parameters before surgery, but effects on major postoperative outcomes could not be demonstrated; therefore, no significant differences were found in weight and phase angle values after nutritional intervention. Nevertheless, we found a significant increase in BMI in the preoperative period in the group that had shorter Intensive Care Unit length-of-stay. Conclusion: We can conclude that an adequate nutritional status in children with heart disease, prior to surgical correction, is desirable to achieve good postoperative outcomes. Nutritional assessment and intervention prior to surgery are extremely important, aiming at minimizing hospital length-of-stay.(AU)

Prevalence, risk factors and outcomes associated with pulmonary hemorrhage in newborns / Prevalência, fatores de risco e prognóstico associados à hemorragia pulmonar em recém-nascidos

OBJECTIVES: to determine the prevalence of pulmonary hemorrhage in newborns and evaluate the associated risk factors and outcomes. METHODS: this was a retrospective case-control study involving 67 newborns who met the criteria for pulmonary hemorrhage. A control was selected for each case: the next-born child of the same gender, similar weight (± 200 g) and gestational age (± 1 week), with no previous pulmona ry hemorrhage and no malformation diagnosis. Factors previous to pulmonary hemorrhage onset, as well as aspects associated to the condition, were assessed. RESULTS: the prevalence was 6.7 for 1,000 live births, and the rates observed were: 8% among newborns < 1,500 g, and 11% among newborns < 1,000 g. Intubation in the delivery room (OR = 7.16), SNAPPE II (OR = 2.97), surfactant use (OR = 3.7), and blood components used previously to pulmonary hemorrhage onset (OR = 5.91) were associated with pulmonary hemorrhage. In the multivariate logistic regression model, only intubation in delivery room and previous use of blood components maintained the association. Children with pulmonary hemorrhage had higher mortality (OR = 7.24). Among the survivors, the length of stay (p < 0.01) and mechanical ventilation time were longer (OR = 25.6), and oxygen use at 36 weeks of corrected age was higher (OR = 7.67). CONCLUSIONS: pulmonary hemorrhage is more prevalent in premature newborns, and is associated with intubation in the delivery room and previous use of blood components, leading to high mortality and worse clinical evolution. .

OBJETIVOS : determinar a prevalência de hemorragia pulmonar entre os recém-nascidos internados no serviço e avaliar os fatores de risco e prognóstico associados. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo caso-controle com 67 recém-nascidos que preencheram os critérios pré-estabelecidos de hemorragia pulmonar. Para cada caso, foi selecionado um controle: a próxima criança nascida do mesmo sexo, com semelhantes peso (± 200 g), idade gestacional (± 1 semana) e sem hemorragia pulmonar ou malformações. Foram estudados fatores prévios à ocorrência da hemorragia pulmonar e aspectos decorrentes do evento. RESULTADOS: a prevalência foi de 6,7 a cada 1.000 nascidos vivos, sendo de 8% entre os recém-nascidos menores que 1.500 g e de 11% entre os recém-nascidos menores que 1.000 g. A necessidade de intubação (IOT) em sala de parto (OR = 7,16), uso de hemoderivados previamente à ocorrência de hemorragia pulmonar (OR = 5,91), uso de surfactante (OR = 3,7) e SNAPPEII > 30 (OR = 2,97) foram associados à hemorragia pulmonar. No modelo de regressão logística multivariado, a necessidade de IOT (OR = 5,12) e uso de hemoderivados (OR = 4,2) mantiveram essa associação. As crianças com hemorragia pulmonar apresentaram maior mortalidade (OR = 7,24), entre as sobreviventes, maior tempo de internação (p < 0,01), mais uso de oxigênio com 36 semanas (OR = 7,67) e maior duração da ventilação mecânica (OR = 35,6). CONCLUSÃO: a hemorragia pulmonar é uma doença de maior prevalência em recém-nascidos pré-termos, e está associada à intubação em sala de parto e ao uso prévio de hemoderivados, acarretando maior mortalidade e pior evolução clínica das crianças. .

Gammaglobulins in critical care / Gamaglobulinas em Terapia Intensiva

The use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is relatively in frequent in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs). However, “off-label” IVIG prescriptions for different conditions are highly prevalent. The aim of this paper is to review the existing evidence for the use of IVIG in patients admitted to ICUs, emphasizing non-infectious diseases and complications: hypogammaglobulinemia of the critically ill, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), Kawasaki disease (KD), chylothorax, acute myocarditis, toxic shock syndrome (TSS), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermalnecrolysis (TEN), and sepsis. In conclusion, in critically ill patients, IVIG use is of benefit in KD, GBS, and TSS. It may benefit patients with fulminant acute myocarditis. The benefit is not proven in patients with HLH, chylothorax, and SJS/TEN.

O uso de imunoglobulina intravenosa (IVIG) é relativamente infrequente em pacientes internados em unidades de terapia intensiva (UTIs). Entretanto, prescrições “off-label” de IVIG para diferentes patologias são altamente prevalentes. O objetivo deste artigo é revisar as evidências existentes para o uso de IVIG em pacientes internados em UTIs, enfatizando as doenças e complicações não infecciosas: hipogamaglobulinemia do paciente crítico, linfo-histiocitose hemofagocítica (HLH), síndrome de Guillain-Barré (GBS), doença de Kawasaki (KD), quilotórax, miocardite aguda, síndrome do choque tóxico (TSS), síndrome de Stevens-Johnson (SJS)/necrólise epidérmica tóxica (TEN), e sepse. Em conclusão, em pacientes criticamente enfermos, o uso de IVIG é benéfico em KD, GBS e TSS. IVIG pode ser benéfica em pacientes com miocardite aguda fulminante. O benefício não foi comprovado em pacientes com HLH, quilotórax e SJS/TEN.

Herbal medicines: old and new concepts, truths and misunderstandings

Men have been using herbal medicines for thousands of years. The advantages of this type of therapeutics include good availability, local cultural aspects, individual preferences, the increasing demand for natural and organic products, and the already validated synergistic effects of herbal medicines. However, ethically, the scope and limits of these drugs need to be established not only by ethnopharmacological evidences but also by scientific investigations, which confirm the therapeutic effects. With this study, we propose to discuss the possible advantages of using herbal medicines instead of purified compounds, the truth and myths about herbal medicines, drug discovery, and the implications for medical education and health care.

Ventilação mecânica em crianças / Mechanical ventilation in children

O presente artigo apresenta ao leitor as principais indicações de ventilação mecânica assistida em crianças e as principais modalidades existentes, além de trazer orientações para o ajuste dos parâmetros iniciais de ventilação de acordo com a indicação e listar as principais complicações relacionadas à ventilação mecânica e seu tratamento imediato.

The present article presents to the reader the main indications for mechanical ventilation in children and the most common modalities; it also gives orientation for the initial ventilator settings according to the indication, and lists the main ventilation-related complications and their immediate treatment.

Avaliação da aprotinina na redução da resposta inflamatória sistêmica em crianças operadas com circulação extracorpórea / Assessment of aprotinin in the reduction of inflammatory systemic response in children undergoing surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a aprotinina em altas doses hemostáticas pode reduzir o processo inflamatório após circulação extracorpórea (CEC) em crianças. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo randomizado em crianças de 30 dias a 4 anos de idade, submetidas à correção de cardiopatia congênita acianogênica, com CEC e divididas em dois grupos, um denominado Controle (n=9) e o outro, Aprotinina (n=10). Neste, o fármaco foi administrado antes e durante a CEC. A resposta inflamatória sistêmica e disfunções hemostática e multiorgânicas foram analisadas por marcadores clínicos e bioquímicos. Foram consideradas significantes as diferenças com P<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os grupos foram semelhantes quanto às variáveis demográficas e intra-operatórias, exceto por maior hemodiluição no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve benefício quanto aos tempos de ventilação pulmonar mecânica, permanência no CTIP e hospitalar, nem quanto ao uso de inotrópicos e função renal. A relação PaO2/FiO2 (pressão parcial de oxigênio arterial/fração inspirada de oxigênio) apresentou queda significativa com 24 h pós-operatório, no Grupo Controle. As perdas sanguíneas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. No grupo Aprotinina surgiu leucopenia significativa, em CEC, seguida de leucocitose. Fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-α), Interleucinas (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, proporção IL-6/IL-10 não apresentaram diferenças marcantes intergrupos. A proporção IL-6/IL-10 PO aumentou no grupo Controle. Não houve complicações com o uso da aprotinina. CONCLUSÃO: Nesta casuística, a Aprotinina em altas doses hemostáticas não minimizou as manifestações clínicas e os marcadores séricos de resposta inflamatória sistêmica.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if the hemostatic high-dose aprotinin seems to reduce the inflammatory process after extracorporeal circulation (ECC) in children. METHODS: A prospective randomized study was conducted on children aged 30 days to 4 years submitted to correction of acyanogenic congenital heart disease with ECC and divided into two groups: Control (n=9) and Aprotinin (n=10). In the Aprotinin Group the drug was administered before and during ECC and the systemic inflammatory response and hemostatic and multiorgan dysfunctions were analyzed on the basis of clinical and biochemical markers. Differences were considered to be significant when P<0.05. RESULTS: The groups were similar regarding demographic and intraoperative variables, except for a greater hemodilution in the Aprotinin Group. The drug had no benefit regarding time of mechanical pulmonary ventilation, permanence in the postoperative ICU and length of CONCLUSION: In this series, hemostatic high-dose aprotinin did not minimize the clinical manifestations or serum markers of the inflammatory systemic response.

Aprotinina não influencia troponina I, NTproBNP e função renal em crianças operadas com circulação extracorpórea / High-dose aprotinin does not affect troponin I, N-Terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptid and renal function in children submitted to surgical correction with extracorporeal circulation

Objetivo: Avaliar se o uso de aprotinina em altas doses hemostáticas pode influenciar as funções miocárdicas, renais e metabólicas em crianças operadas com circulação extracorpórea (CEC). Métodos: Estudo prospectivo randomizado em crianças de 30 dias a 4 anos de idade, submetidas à correção de cardiopatia congênita acianogênica, com CEC e divididas em dois grupos, um denominado Controle (n=9) e o outro, Aprotinina (n=10). Neste, a droga foi administrada antes e durante a CEC. As disfunções miocárdicas e multiorgânicas foram analisadas por marcadores clínicos e bioquímicos. Foram consideradas significantes as diferenças com P<0,05. Resultados: Os grupos foram semelhantes quanto às variáveis demográficas e intra-operatórias, exceto por maior hemodiluição no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve benefício quanto aos tempos de ventilação pulmonar mecânica, permanência no Centro de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica (CTIP) e hospitalar, nem quanto ao uso de inotrópicos e função renal. A relação PaO2/FiO2 (pressão parcial de oxigênio arterial/fração inspirada de oxigênio) apresentou queda significativa com 24h PO, no Grupo Controle. As perdas sanguíneas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. Os marcadores troponina I cardíaca (cTnI), fração MB da creatinofosfoquinase (CKMB), transaminase glutâmico-oxalacética (TGO) e fração amino-terminal do peptídio natriurético tipo B (NT-proBNP) não apresentaram diferenças marcantes inter-grupos. A lactatemia e acidose metabólica pós-CEC foi maior no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve complicações tromboembólicas, neurológicas ou de hipersensibilidade com o uso da aprotinina. Conclusão: A aprotinina em altas doses não influenciou significativamente nos marcadores séricos troponina I e NTproBNP e de função renal, porém foi associado com maior hemodiluição, lactatemia e acidose metabólica.

Objective: To evaluate if the use of hemostatic high-dose aprotinin seems influence to myocardial, renal and metabolic functions in children submitted to surgical correction with extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Material and Methods A prospective randomized study was conducted on children aged 30 days to 4 years submitted to correction of acyanogenic congenital heart disease with ECC and divided into two groups: Control (n=9) and Aprotinin (n=10). In the Aprotinin Group the drug was administered before and during ECC and the myocardial and multiorgan dysfunctions were analyzed on the basis of clinical and biochemical markers. Differences were considered to be significant when P<0.05. Results: The groups were similar regarding demographic and intraoperative variables, except for a greater hemodilution in the Aprotinin Group. The drug had no benefit regarding time of mechanical pulmonary ventilation, permanence in the pediatric postoperative intensive care unit (ICU) and length of hospitalization, or regarding the use of inotropic drugs and renal function. The partial arterial oxygen pressure/inspired oxygen fraction ratio (PaO2/FiO2) was significantly reduced 24h after surgery in the Control Group. Blood loss was similar for both groups. Cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase MB fraction (CKMB), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and the aminoterminal fraction of natriuretic peptide type B (NT-proBNP) did not differ significantly between groups. Post-ECC blood lactate concentration and metabolic acidosis was more intense in the Aprotinin Group. There were no complications with the use of aprotinin. Conclusion: High-dose aprotinin did not significant influence in serum markers troponin I, NT-proBNP and renal function, but did associated with hemodilution, blood lactate concentration and metabolic acidosis more intense.

Aprotinina preserva plaquetas em crianças com cardiopatia congênita acianogênica operadas com circulação extracorpórea? / Does aprotinin preserve platelets in children with acyanogenic congenital heart disease undergone surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass?

OBJETIVO: Avaliação dos efeitos hemostáticos e plaquetários em crianças submetidas a correção de cardiopatias congênitas acianogênicas com circulação extracorpórea que receberam aprotinina. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo randomizado em crianças de 30 dias a 4 anos de idade, submetidas a correção de cardiopatia congênita acianogênica, com circulação extracorpórea (CEC) e divididas em dois grupos, um denominado Controle (n=9) e o outro, Aprotinina (n=10). Neste, a droga foi administrada antes e durante a CEC. A disfunção hemostática foi analisada por marcadores clínicos e bioquímicos. Foram consideradas significantes as diferenças com P<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os grupos foram semelhantes quanto às variáveis demográficas e intra-operatórias, exceto por maior hemodiluição no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve benefício quanto aos tempos de ventilação pulmonar mecânica, permanência no centro de terapia intensiva pediátrica e hospitalar, nem quanto ao uso de inotrópicos e função renal. Ocorreu preservação da concentração plaquetária com a Aprotinina, enquanto no grupo Controle houve plaquetopenia desde o início da CEC. As perdas sanguíneas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. Não houve complicações com o uso da Aprotinina. CONCLUSÃO: A Aprotinina preservou quantitativamente as plaquetas em crianças com cardiopatia congênita acianogênica

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the hemostatic and platelets effects in children with acyanogenic congenital heart disease undergone on-pump surgery who received aprotinin. METHODS: A prospective randomized study was performed on children aged 30 days to 4 years who had undergone correction of acyanogenic congenital heart disease using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and were divided into two groups: Control (n=9) and Aprotinin (n=10). In the Aprotinin Group the drug was administered before and during CPB and the hemostatic dysfunction was analyzed by clinical and biochemical markers. Differences were considered to be significant when P<0.05. RESULTS: The groups were similar regarding demographic and intraoperative variables, except for a greater hemodilution in the Aprotinin Group. The drug presented no benefit regarding time of mechanical pulmonary ventilation, stay in the postoperative intensive care unit and hospital, or regarding the use of inotropic drugs and renal function. Platelet concentration was preserved with the use of Aprotinin, whereas thrombocytopenia occurred in the Control Group since the initiation of CPB. Blood loss was similar for both groups. There were no complications with the use of Aprotinin. CONCLUSION: Aprotinin quantitatively preserved the blood platelets in children with acyanogenic congenital heart disease

Dinâmica dos níveis do hormônio folículo estimulante na fase folicular precoce durante a vida reprodutiva / Follicle stimulating hormone dynamic during the early follicular phase

Avaliar os níveis do hormônio folículo estimulante (FSH) na fase folicular precoce durante o período reprodutivo. Cerca de 20ml de sangue venoso foram colhidos entre os dias 3 e 5 do ciclo menstrual de 246 mulheres näo selecionadas, entre 13 e 52 anos de idade, excluindo-se as que estivessem em uso de medicamentos que pudessem interferir com os níveis das gonadotrofinas. As concentraçöes de FSH e LH foram determinadas em duplicata. Regressöes linear e näo linear, polinomial, foram realizadas considerando-se as concentraçöes de FSH como variável dependente versus idade como variável independente. Os níveis de FSH elevaram-se de modo gradual em aproximadamente 2,6 vezes ao longo dos anos reprodutivos (p<0,025). Detectou-se correlaçäo positiva entre a idade e os níveis de FSH (p<0,05). A inclinaçäo da parábola pela regressäo polinomial (Y=7,97-0,009x+0,057x²) foi de 0,359 e o coeficiente de correlaçäo generalizado foi r=0,795. Um coeficiente de Pearson de r²=0,889 foi obtido por regressäo linear. A análise de melhoria do ajuste mostrou que a parábola representa melhor o fenômeno (F=4,7;p<0,05). Os níveis de LH nesta fase permaneceram quase constantes na populaçäo examinada, com pequena elevaçäo apenas a partir dos 40 anos. O FSH, verificado na fase folicular precoce do ciclo menstrual, eleva-se de modo näo linear durante os anos reprodutivos e as concentraçöes de LH permanecem quase constantes, aumentando discretamente apenas nas pacientes com idade acima de 40 anos.