IL-1β and IL-17 in cutaneous lupus erythematous skin biopsies: could immunohistochemicals indicate a tendency towards systemic involvement?

Abstract Background: Only a fraction of patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) will eventually progress toward systemic disease (SLE). Objective: To find inflammatory biomarkers which could predict the progression of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) into systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) using immunohistochemical (IHC) assays. Methods: Immunohistochemical markers for cytotoxic, inflammatory, and anti-inflammatory responses and morphometric methods were applied to routine paraffin sections of skin biopsies, taken from lesions of 59 patients with discoid lupus, subacute lupus, and lupus tumidus. For the diagnosis of SLE, patients were classified by both the American College of Rheumatology (ACR-82) and the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC-12) systems. Results: Skin samples from CLE/SLE +patients presented higher expression of IL-1β (ARC-82: p = 0.024; SLICC-12: p = 0.0143) and a significantly higher number of cells marked with granzyme B and perforin (ARC: p = 0.0097; SLICC-12: p = 0.0148). Biopsies from CLE/SLE- individuals had higher expression of IL-17 (ARC-82: p = 0.0003; SLICC-12: p = 0.0351) and presented a positive correlation between the density of granzyme A+and FoxP3+ cells (ARC-82: p = 0.0257; SLICC-12: p = 0.0285) and CD8+ cells (ARC-82: p = 0.0075; SLICC-12: p = 0.0102), as well as between granulysin-positive and CD8+ cells (ARC-82: p = 0.0024; SLICC-12: p = 0.0116). Study limitations: Patients were evaluated at a specific point in their evolution and according to the presence or not of systemic disease. The authors cannot predict how many more, from each group, would have evolved towards SLE in the following years. Conclusions: In this cohort, immunohistochemical findings suggested that patients with a tendency to systemic disease will show strong reactivity for IL-1β, while those with purely cutaneous involvement will tend to express IL-17 more intensely.

The influence of growth time on the identification of Bartonella henselae strains by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry

ABSTRACT Bartonella spp. are bacteria responsible for neglected diseases worldwide. Bartonella henselae is the species most associated with human infections. It is associated with a large spectrum of clinical manifestations and is potentially fatal. The identification of Bartonella spp. is considered a challenge in clinical routine. These bacteria are fastidious, and the time required to isolate them varies from one to six weeks. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry has emerged as an application for research on Bartonella spp. , and has still been little explored. We investigated whether three different B. henselae strains with different growth times—14 and 28 days—could be correctly identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectra fingerprint comparison and matching. We found that the spectra from strains with different growth times do not match each other, leading to misidentification. We suggest creating database entries with multiple spectra from strains with different growth times to increase the chances of accurate identification of Bartonella spp. by MALD-TOF MS.

F-waves persistence in peripheral sensory syndromes / Persistência das ondas-F nas síndromes sensitivas periféricas

Abstract Background The distinction between sensory neuronopathies (SN), which is by definition purely sensory, and sensory polyneuropathies (SP) and sensory multineuropathies (SM) is important for etiologic investigation and prognosis estimation. However, this task is often challenging in clinical practice. We hypothesize that F-wave assessment might be helpful, since it is able to detect subtle signs of motor involvement, which are found in SP and SM, but not in SN. Objective The aim of the present study was to determine whether F-waves are useful to distinguish SN from SP and SM. Methods We selected 21 patients with SP (12 diabetes mellitus, 4 transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathy, 4 others), 22 with SM (22 leprosy), and 26 with SN (13 immune-mediated, 10 idiopathic, 3 others) according to clinical-electrophysiological-etiological criteria. For every subject, we collected data on height and performed 20 supramaximal distal stimuli in median, ulnar, peroneal, and tibial nerves, bilaterally, to record F-waves. Latencies (minimum and mean) and persistences were compared across groups using the Kruskal-Wallis and Bonferroni tests. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant. Results All groups were age, gender, and height-matched. Overall, there were no significant between-group differences regarding F-wave latencies. In contrast, F-wave persistence was able to stratify the groups. Peroneal F-wave persistence was higher, bilaterally, in the SN group compared to SM and SP (p < 0.05). In addition, F-waves persistence of the ulnar and tibial nerves was also helpful to separate SN from SP (p < 0.05). Conclusion F-wave persistence of the peroneal nerves might be an additional and useful diagnostic tool to differentiate peripheral sensory syndromes.

Resumo Antecedentes A distinção entre neuronopatias sensitivas (SN) e polineuropatias sensitivas (SP) e multineuropatias sensitivas (SM) é importante para a investigação etiológica e para o prognóstico. Contudo, esta tarefa é desafiadora na prática clínica. Hipotetizou-se que a avaliação das ondas-F pode ser útil, por ser capaz de detectar envolvimento motor nas SP e SM, mas não nas SN. Objetivo Determinar se as ondas-F podem ajudar a distinguir entre SN, SP e SM. Métodos Selecionou-se 21 pacientes com SP (12 diabetes mellitus, 4 ATTR-FAP e 4 com outras neuropatias), 22 com SM (22 hanseníases) e 26 com SN (13 imunomediadas, 10 idiopáticas e 3 com outras neuronopatias), de acordo com critérios clínicos, etiológicos e eletrofisiológicos. Para cada indivíduo, foi aferida a altura e foram aplicados 20 estímulos distais supramáximos nos nervos mediano, ulnar, fibular e tibial, bilateralmente, para registrar as ondas-F. Uma comparação foi feita, por grupo, das latências (mínimas e médias) e persistências pelos testes Kruskal-Wallis e Bonferroni. Valores de p < 0.05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. Resultados Todos os grupos foram pareados por idade, sexo e altura. Não houve diferença estatística significativa entre os grupos quanto às latências das ondas-F. A persistência da onda-F foi capaz de estratificar os grupos, sendo as dos nervos fibulares bilateralmente maiores no grupo SN que nos grupos SM e SP (p < 0.05). Adicionalmente, a persistência das ondas-F dos nervos ulnares e tibiais também foi útil para distinguir SN de SP (p < 0.05). Conclusão A persistência das ondas-F dos nervos fibulares pode ser uma ferramenta adicional e útil para diferenciar síndromes sensitivas periféricas.

Detection of Bartonella henselae DNA in the blood of patients with livedoid vasculopathy

Abstract Background: Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) manifests as ulcers and atrophic white scars on the lower extremities. The main known etiopathogenesis is hypercoagulability with thrombus formation, followed by inflammation. Thrombophilia, collagen and myeloproliferative diseases may induce LV, but the idiopathic (primary) form predominates. Bartonella spp. may cause intra-endothelial infection and skin manifestations caused by these bacteria may be diverse, including leukocytoclastic vasculitis and ulcers. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of bacteremia by Bartonella spp. in patients with difficult-to-control chronic ulcers diagnosed as primary LV. Methods: Questionnaires and molecular tests (conventional PCR, nested PCR and real-time PCR) were applied and liquid and solid cultures were performed in the blood samples and blood clot of 16 LV patients and 32 healthy volunteers. Results: Bartonella henselae DNA was detected in 25% of LV patients and in 12.5% of control subjects but failed to reach statistically significant differences (p = 0.413). Study limitations: Due to the rarity of primary LV, the number of patients studied was small and there was greater exposure of the control group to risk factors for Bartonella spp. infection. Conclusion: Although there was no statistically significant difference between the groups, the DNA of B. henselae was detected in one of every four patients, which reinforces the need to investigate Bartonella spp. in patients with primary LV.

Bartonella henselae as a putative trigger for chronic type 2 leprosy reactions

Abstract Leprosy reactions are an acute inflammatory phenomenon that can arise before diagnosis, during treatment, or after cure of leprosy. These reactions are considered one of the main diseases that cause physical disabilities. Immunosuppressive treatment for these immune responses makes these patients susceptible to coinfections, which can trigger new leprosy reactions. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of infection by Bartonella sp. in blood samples from 47 patients who had untreatable episodes of type 2 leprosy reactions for more than six months, comparing them with a control group. Cultures and molecular methods (PCR) were used. Amplicons from species-specific reactions and sequencing showed a higher prevalence of Bartonella henselae infection in patients, 19/47 (40.4 %), compared to control, 9/50 (18.0 %), p= 0.0149. Five patients accepted treatment for coinfection, and all showed improvement in leprosy reactions with treatment for B. henselae infection. We conclude that these bacteria can trigger chronic reactions of type 2 leprosy and should be investigated in these patients. Summary line Patients who have chronic type 2 leprosy reactions are more susceptible to Bartonella henselae infection than controls: 19/47 (40.4 %) compared 9/50 (18.0 %), p= 0.0149.

Tratamento cirúrgico exclusivo de linfoma B primário cutâneo da zona marginal: relato de caso / Exclusive surgical treatment of a primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma: a case report

Os linfomas B primários cutâneos (LBPCs) são linfomas não Hodgkin, de acometimento exclusivamente cutâneo, e representam 25% dos linfomas primários cutâneos. São divididos, conforme comportamento clínico, em indolentes e intermediários. O tratamento das formas indolentes inclui a cirurgia, a radioterapia e, em casos extensos, o rituximabe. Relata-se o caso de mulher de 57 anos, com placa única no braço esquerdo, com diagnóstico de LBPC da zona marginal, tratado com excisão com margens de segurança de 5mm, sem recidiva após 36 meses de seguimento. A cirurgia é uma alternativa terapêutica com bom resultado clínico, sem impacto na sobrevida livre da doença.

Primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas are non-Hodgkin lymphomas presenting only in the skin and represent 25% of all primary cutaneous lymphomas. Based on their clinical behavior, they are classified into indolent and intermediate forms. Treatment of indolent forms includes surgery, radiotherapy, and, in extensive disease, rituximab. We report a case of a 57-year-old woman with a single nodule in the left arm treated with surgical excision with 5-mm security margins, without relapse after 36 months. Surgery is a therapeutic option in these lymphomas without compromising disease-free survival.

Chronic type 2 reaction possibly triggered by an asymptomatic Bartonella henselae infection in a leprosy patient

ABSTRACT As leprosy and leprosy reactions are the most prevalent infectious cause of physical disability, it is important to commit efforts to better understand these chronic reactions. Infections, even when asymptomatic, can trigger leprosy reactions and Bartonella spp. in turn, can cause chronic infections. We presented a case of a 51-year-old man who was admitted presenting with chronic type 2 leprosy reactions. He had a lepromatous form of leprosy that was histologically diagnosed six months after the onset of signs and symptoms compatible with a chronic type 2 reaction. He reported a history of a previous hepatitis B diagnosis. During a 24-month multidrug therapy (MDT), chronic reactions were partially controlled with prednisone and thalidomide. Thirty-three months following the leprosy treatment, he still experienced chronic reactions, and whole bacilli as well as globi were found on a new skin biopsy. Since coinfections can trigger type 2 reactions and the patient had close contact with animals and ticks, we investigated the presence of a Bartonella sp. infection. Bartonella henselae DNA was detected in a skin fragment obtained before the beginning of the leprosy retreatment. However, even after six months of a second leprosy MDT, he continued to experience type 2 chronic reactions. He was admitted to the hospital to undergo an intravenous antibiotic therapy for 14 days and then complete the treatment per os for ten more weeks. Leprosy reactions improved following the treatment for B. henselae. After completing the MDT treatment, he has been accompanied for sixty months with no signs of leprosy or leprosy reactions. The asymptomatic infection by B. henselaein this patient was considered the putative trigger of chronic leprosy reactions and leprosy relapse.

Two-year history of lymphadenopathy and fever caused by Bartonella henselae in a child

ABSTRACT We report the case of a 6-year-old boy that presented with enlarged lymph nodes on his neck. He complained of tiredness and discouragement, which worsened during feverish periods. There were no relevant laboratory test abnormalities and serological tests were not reactive. Bartonella henselae DNA was detected by species-specific nested polymerase chain reaction. After treatment, the patient progressed with no fever or lymphadenopathy. Bartonellosis is a group of infectious diseases caused by bacteria of the genus Bartonella. This case report is a useful reminder to clinicians that long-term fever of unknown origin can be related to B. henselae infection, even if the specific serology is not reactive.

Cutaneous manifestations of bartonellosis

Abstract Bartonellosis are diseases caused by any kind of Bartonella species. The infection manifests as asymptomatic bacteremia to potentially fatal disorders. Many species are pathogenic to humans, but three are responsible for most clinical symptoms: Bartonella bacilliformis, Bartonella quintana, and Bartonella henselae. Peruvian wart, caused by B. bacilliformis, may be indistinguishable from bacillary angiomatosis caused by the other two species. Other cutaneous manifestations include maculo-papular rash in trench fever, papules or nodules in cat scratch disease, and vasculitis (often associated with endocarditis). In addition, febrile morbilliform rash, purpura, urticaria, erythema nodosum, erythema multiforme, erythema marginatus, granuloma annularis, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, granulomatous reactions, and angioproliferative reactions may occur. Considering the broad spectrum of infection and the potential complications associated with Bartonella spp., the infection should be considered by physicians more frequently among the differential diagnoses of idiopathic conditions. Health professionals and researchers often neglected this diseases.

The Academic Performance of Scholarship Students during Medical School / Desempenho Acadêmico de Estudantes Bolsistas durante o Curso de Medicina

ABSTRACT The inclusion, adherence and success of low-income undergraduates are important goals in Brazilian higher education, as well as in other parts of the world, especially in busy and full-time courses such as medicine. This paper analyzes the performance of undergraduate medical students by comparing two groups: those who applied for and received a scholarship during the academic years (scholarship holders) and the others (without scholarship). We analyzed data from 417 medical students who graduated between 2010 and 2013, corresponding to four years of a retrospective cohort at a free public university in Brazil. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test, Student's t test, Mann-Whitney test, and linear regression to compare the scores of these groups in the sixth and twelfth semesters (middle and final semesters) and in the admission exam for medical residency programs, consisting of: total score, multiple choice test for knowledge assessment, simulated structured clinical assessment, interview and written questions. The independent variable was to receive a scholarship, while the control variables were age, socioeconomic strata, extra gratuities for high school in public institution and self-declaration of race, score in the vestibular entry exam (general and in each area assessed) and parents' level of education. A total of 243 students (58.2%) received a scholarship, most of them as a scientific initiation grant (217 or 89.3%), while 10.7% received social assistance, the average income per capita was about 16% lower among students who received a scholarship (p = 0.01) compared to those who did not. Scholarship recipients achieved better academic performance in the sixth (p<0.01) and in the twelfth (p<0.01) semester, but not in admission to medical residency programs. Good performance was independent of age, race, receipt of bonuses for admission to medical school, and educational background of their parents. Therefore, we conclude that receiving a scholarship at the undergraduate level was associated tobetter student performance during the undergraduate medical course. It is important to emphasize the importance of reinforcing similar programs, especially to help support students who are most vulnerable socioeconomically.

RESUMO A inclusão, a adesão e o sucesso de estudantes de baixa renda na graduação são metas importantes no ensino superior brasileiro, assim como em outras partes do mundo, principalmente em cursos concorridos e em tempo integral, como o de Medicina. Este manuscrito analisa o desempenho de estudantes de graduação em Medicina, comparando dois grupos: os que se candidataram e receberam uma bolsa de estudos durante os anos acadêmicos (bolsistas) e os demais (sem bolsa). Analisamos dados de 417 estudantes de Medicina que se formaram entre 2010 e 2013, correspondendo a quatro anos de uma coorte retrospectiva, numa universidade pública gratuita no Brasil. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste exato de Fisher, o teste t de Student, o de Mann-Whitney e a regressão linear para comparar os escores desses grupos no sexto e décimo segundo semestres (meio e último semestres) e no exame de admissão para programas de residência médica, compostos por: escore total, teste de múltipla escolha para avaliação do conhecimento, avaliação clínica estruturada simulada, entrevista e perguntas escritas. A variável independente foi receber uma bolsa de estudos, enquanto as variáveis de controle foram idade, estratos socioeconômicos, gratificações extras para o ensino médio em instituição pública e autodeclaração de raça, pontuação no vestibular (geral e em cada área avaliada) e escolaridade dos pais. Um total de 243 alunos (58,2%) receberam uma bolsa de estudos, a maioria como bolsa de iniciação científica (217 ou 89,3%), enquanto 10,7% a receberam por assistência social. A renda média per capita foi cerca de 16% menor entre os bolsistas (p = 0,01) em comparação com aqueles que não receberam bolsa. Os estudantes bolsistas obtiveram melhor desempenho acadêmico no sexto (p<0,01) e no décimo segundo (p<0,01) semestres, mas não na admissão em programas de residência médica. O bom desempenho foi independentede idade,raça, recebimento de bônus à admissão na escola médica e formação educacional dos pais. Portanto, concluímos que receber uma bolsa na graduação foi associadoa melhor desempenho dos alunos durante o curso de graduação em Medicina. Enfatizamos a importância de reforçar programas semelhantes, especialmente para ajudar a apoiar os alunos mais vulneráveis socioeconomicamente.

Trajetória profissional de egressos do curso de Medicina da Universidade de Campinas (Unicamp), São Paulo, Brasil: o olhar do ex-aluno na avaliação do programa / Trayectoria profesional de egresados del curso de Medicina da Universidad de Campinas, São Paulo, Brasil: la mirada del ex-alumno en la evaluación del programa / Professional trajectory of medical course alumni from from Campinas University, São Paulo, Brazil: graduates' point of view in evaluating the course

A Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Unicamp implantou uma ampla reforma curricular, que antecedeu as Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais (DCN) de 2001. Analisou-se a trajetória profissional e o impacto da reforma curricular na formação pela percepção dos egressos. Alunos concluintes de 1991-2005 compuseram o grupo pré-reforma e os de 2006-2012, o grupo pós-reforma, que receberam um questionário semiestruturado on-line por e-mail e redes sociais. Obtiveram-se 213 (15,8%) respostas do grupo pré e 126 (16,1%) do pós-reforma. Os dados apontaram pouca dispersão geográfica dos ex-alunos, ocupação de 2,4 postos de trabalho por médico, entendimento da residência como necessária, maior frequência a cursinhos preparatórios no grupo pós-reforma e sugestão de inclusão de administração/gestão em saúde no currículo. A integração entre áreas básicas/clínicas apresentou significante melhora pós-reforma. A percepção sobre a graduação foi altamente positiva. O estudo contribuiu para implantar o acompanhamento sistemático de egressos no curso de Medicina.(AU)

La Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de Unicamp implantó una amplia reforma curricular que antecedió a las directrices curriculares nacionales de 2001. Se analizó la trayectoria profesional y el impacto de la reforma curricular en la formación a partir de la percepción de los egresados. Alumnos concluyentes de la promoción 1991-2005 compusieron el grupo pre-reforma y los de 2006-2012 el grupo post-reforma, recibiendo un cuestionario semi-estructurado, on line, por e-mail y redes sociales. Se obtuvieron 213 (15,8%) respuestas del grupo pre-reforma y 126 (16,1%) del post-reforma. Se encontró poca dispersión geográfica de los ex-alumnos, ocupación de 2,4 puestos de trabajo/médico, comprensión de la residencia como necesaria, mayor frecuencia a cursos preparatorios en el grupo post-reforma y sugerencia de inclusión de administración/gestión en salud en el currículo. La integración entre áreas básicas/clínicas presentó una mejora significativa post-reforma. La percepción sobre la graduación fue altamente positiva. El estudio contribuyó para implantar el acompañamiento sistemático de egresados en el curso de Medicina.(AU)

The School of Medical Sciences of UNICAMP implemented a new curriculum in 2001, predating the national guidelines. This study analyzed the professional trajectory and the new curriculum's impact. Graduates from 1991 to 2005 were grouped in the pre-curricular renovation group, and those from 2006 to 2012 in the post-group. A semi-structured survey was sent through e-mail and social media. There were 213 (15.8%) answers from pre-renovation group and 126 (16.1%) from post. Data showed low geographic dispersion of alumni, 2.4 work posts per physician, residency as a necessary complementation, suggestions for curricular inclusion of management issues and higher frequency of preparatory courses for residency in post-renovation group. There are signs of better integration between basic and clinical areas after the reform. Alumni showed positive perceptions regarding their undergraduate course. The study contributes to the implementation of systematic follow-up of graduates.(AU)

Sexually transmitted infections and PRO-LIVES: based on a clinical report

Abstract: Physicians are also responsible for the increase in sexually transmitted infections. We report a case of patient inadequately monitored, that shows the importance of physicians to take basic measures with any individual at risk of acquiring such infections. We propose the following mnemonic acrostic: PRO-LIVES (Protection: usual and proper codom use, Responsibility, Other orientations, Laboratory tests -HIV infection, syphilis and B and C hepatitis-, Immunization: B hepatitis vaccination, Various: at least two patients, Ensure: case history and physical examination, Single dose treatment: whenever possible). Clinicians should take these measures when treating any patient who has been exposed to risk or with a diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections.

Periungual tegumentary leishmaniasis: a diagnostic challenge

Abstract: Periungual and paronychia-like skin lesions can mimic various diseases, setting up a diagnostic challenge that invariably requires correlation with complementary tests. We report a case of an ulcerated tumor of the nailfold diagnosed as leishmaniasis. Although paronychia-like cutaneous leishmaniasis is a rare variant, its epidemiological relevance in Brazil should prompt dermatologists to include it as a plausible diagnosis thus leading to correct work up and treatment.

Pioderma gangrenoso da mama ? relato de caso e aspectos relevantes para o diagnóstico precoce / Aprenda a pronunciar Pyoderma gangrenosum of breast - case report and relevant aspects for early diagnosis

Contexto: O pioderma gangrenoso (PG) é doença inflamatória da pele, com intensa infiltração de neutrófilos, que pode surgir após cirurgia da mama. Há relatos cada vez mais frequentes, considerando o aumento desse procedimento nos dias atuais. Pode se desenvolver espontaneamente, associado ao trauma cirúrgico ou por certas doenças sistêmicas e neoplásicas. A manifestação clínica das úlceras é característica e deve ser lembrada nas evoluções cicatriciais desfavoráveis com intensa reação inflamatória, perdas teciduais, secreção sanguinolenta e/ou purulenta, fundo granuloso e vegetante e bordas solapadas. Relato de caso: Relata-se o caso de paciente que teve pioderma gangrenoso após mastectomia parcial por adenocarcinoma de mama. Respondeu ao corticosteroide e imunossupressor sistêmico e evoluiu com duas recidivas em diferentes situações. Conclusão: O PG pode ocorrer após as cirurgias das mamas, havendo sinais e sintomas que indicam o diagnóstico e o tratamento precoce.

O conhecimento e o ensino sobre doenças sexualmente transmissíveis entre universitários / Awareness and education regarding sexually transmitted diseases among undergraduate students

Resumo Doenças sexualmente transmissíveis (DST) são a principal causa global de doença aguda e morte e representam elevado custo socioeconômico. Universitários são altamente expostos. A pesquisa desenvolvida na Unicamp teve como objetivo quantificar e gerar autopercepção do (des)conhecimento sobre as DST, além de avaliar o interesse em uma disciplina sobre o tema. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi o questionário enviado eletronicamente aos graduandos do final de 2011 e aos alunos recém-ingressos em 2012. Responderam o questionário 1.448 veteranos e 371 calouros. Não tinham tido atividade sexual 20% dos veteranos e 38% dos calouros. Dos alunos que já haviam tido, 26,9% não tinham parceria fixa e 28,2%, mais que duas parcerias/ano. O preservativo foi usado por 99% dos alunos, mas menos de 20% deles faziam uso adequado. Cerca de 80% não sabiam que o preservativo não protege fora da área de barreira; pretendiam ler mais sobre DST e aprenderam algo sobre o assunto. Quase a metade julgou que uma disciplina deveria ser oferecida a todos os graduandos. Estes dados serão úteis para definir estratégias de prevenção e o instrumento didático poderá ser utilizado em outros ambientes de ensino.

Abstract Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are the main global cause of acute illness and death and represent a high socioeconomic cost. Undergraduate students are highly exposed to STDs. The research developed at UNICAMP sought to quantify and generate self-perception of knowledge(or lack thereof) about STDs, as well as evaluate the interest of the students in a course on the topic. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire sent electronically to students about to graduate at the end of 2011 and to freshmen in 2012. The questionnaire was answered by 1,448 seniors and 371 freshmen. Twenty percent of seniors and 38% of freshmen had no sexual activity. Among sexually active students, 26.9% had no regular partner and 28.2% more than two partners per year. The condom was used by 99% of students, but less than 20% used them appropriately. About 80% were unaware that condoms do not provide protection outside the barrier area; they intended to read more about STDs and learnt something about the subject. Nearly half of the students considered that a course should be offered to all undergraduates. These findings will be of use in defining strategies for prevention and the teaching tool could be used in other learning environments.

Dermatology relevance to graduates from the Universidade Estadual de Campinas Medical School

AbstractBACKGROUND:Some research indicates that physicians do not dominate the expected dermatological content for the proper exercise of the profession. This fact compromises their diagnostic and therapeutic performance, generating unnecessary costs.OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study was to evaluate the relevance of Dermatology and the knowledge acquired in the specialty during the undergraduate course in clinical practice of graduates at the State University of Campinas Medical School (FCM/UNICAMP).METHOD:A questionnaire with 22 closed questions and two open ones was electronically sent to physicians who had graduated more than 10 years ago and others for less than 10 years. In the first group, physicians were trained by the same curriculum and in the second group there were subjects trained by the old and the new curriculum.RESULTS:Of the 126 respondents, 83% had completed a specialization course. Among all, 82% did not study dermatology after graduation. The majority considered that Dermatology has high relevance in clinical practice, regardless of the group. There was a statistically significant difference between non-dermatologist doctors graduated for more than 10 years and those graduated for less than 10 years regarding confidence about lesion diagnosis, diagnostic investigation and treatment of skin diseases. Physicians who have graduated for a longer time feel more insecure in relation to patients with dermatoses. Concerning contributions offered by graduation program completion they prioritized outpatient care, ability to diagnose, knowledge of pathology, research and knowledge of lesions.CONCLUSION:This study has shown that Dermatology is relevant in medical practice and more recent graduates from the FCM/UNICAMP feel less insecure when treating a patient with dermatoses.

Diagnóstico e Condutas Dermatológicas em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde / Dermatological Diagnoses and Procedures in a Primary Care Unit

A frequência de dermatoses é alta, apresentando grande impacto na qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Contudo, há poucas políticas públicas nesta área de saúde, e o tempo destinado ao ensino dermatológico na graduação médica é restrito. Objetivos Definir as hipóteses diagnósticas e as condutas mais frequentes adotadas nas consultas realizadas em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS). Métodos Foram utilizados cadernos de registro de atendimento da UBS para análise de variantes como idade, sexo, diagnóstico, conduta e encaminhamento dos pacientes. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente pelo programa SPSS 15.0. Resultados As hipóteses diagnósticas mais frequentes foram: eczemas, tumores benignos, transtornos pigmentares, onicopatias, infecções fúngicas, bacterianas e virais, lesões acneiformes foliculares e eritematodescamativas. Conclusão As hipóteses diagnósticas mais frequentes nas consultas de um médico generalista diferem daquelas feitas pelo especialista. Os resultados deste estudo deverão promover uma discussão sobre o ensino da Dermatologia nos cursos de Medicina. .

The frequency of skin disorders is high and they have a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life. However, there are very few public policies for this area of public health and the time devoted to studying Dermatology at medical school is limited. Objectives to define the most common diagnostic hypotheses and procedures in consultations performed at a primary health care unit. Methods medical notebooks entries were used in order to analyze variables such as age, gender, diagnosis, patient conduct and referral. Statistical analysis was performed using the program SPSS 15.0. Results the most frequent diagnostic hypotheses were: eczema, benign tumors, pigment disorders, onychopathy, fungal infections, bacterial infections, viral infections, acneiform and erythemato-squamous conditions. Conclusion the most frequent hypotheses diagnosed by a general practitioner differ greatly from those diagnosed by specialists. The results of this study should promote further discussions on dermatology teaching in Medical courses. .

Detection of Bartonella henselae DNA in clinical samples including peripheral blood of immune competent and immune compromised patients by three nested amplifications / Detecção de DNA de Bartonella henselae em amostras clínicas, incluindo sangue periférico, de pacientes imunocompetentes e imunodeprimidos por meio de três amplificações duplas

Bacteria of the genus Bartonella are emerging pathogens detected in lymph node biopsies and aspirates probably caused by increased concentration of bacteria. Twenty-three samples of 18 patients with clinical, laboratory and/or epidemiological data suggesting bartonellosis were subjected to three nested amplifications targeting a fragment of the 60-kDa heat shock protein (HSP), the internal transcribed spacer 16S-23S rRNA (ITS) and the cell division (FtsZ) of Bartonella henselae, in order to improve detection in clinical samples. In the first amplification 01, 04 and 05 samples, were positive by HSP (4.3%), FtsZ (17.4%) and ITS (21.7%), respectively. After the second round six positive samples were identified by nested-HSP (26%), eight by nested-ITS (34.8%) and 18 by nested-FtsZ (78.2%), corresponding to 10 peripheral blood samples, five lymph node biopsies, two skin biopsies and one lymph node aspirate. The nested-FtsZ was more sensitive than nested-HSP and nested-ITS (p < 0.0001), enabling the detection of Bartonella henselae DNA in 15 of 18 patients (83.3%). In this study, three nested-PCR that should be specific for Bartonella henselae amplification were developed, but only the nested-FtsZ did not amplify DNA from Bartonella quintana. We conclude that nested amplifications increased detection of B. henselae DNA, and that the nested-FtsZ was the most sensitive and the only specific to B. henselae in different biological samples. As all samples detected by nested-HSP and nested-ITS, were also by nested-FtsZ, we infer that in our series infections were caused by Bartonella henselae. The high number of positive blood samples draws attention to the use of this biological material in the investigation of bartonellosis, regardless of the immune status of patients. This fact is important in the case of critically ill patients and young children to avoid more invasive procedures such as lymph nodes biopsies and aspirates.

Bactérias do gênero Bartonella constituem patógenos emergentes detectados em biópsias de linfonodos e secreções de gânglios provavelmente devido a maior concentração de bactérias. Vinte e três amostras de 18 pacientes com dados clínicos, laboratoriais e/ou epidemiológicos sugestivos de bartonelose foram submetidas a três amplificações duplas para a detecção de fragmento da proteína de choque térmico de 60-kDa (HSP), do espaçador interno 16S-23S rRNA (ITS) e da proteína de divisão celular (FtsZ) de Bartonella henselae, para melhorar a detecção em amostras clínicas. Na primeira amplificação, uma, quatro e cinco amostras, respectivamente, foram positivas pelo HSP (4,3%), FtsZ (17,4%) e pelo ITS (21,7%). Com a segunda amplificação foram identificadas seis amostras positivas pelo nested-HSP (26%), oito pelo nested-ITS (34,8%) e 18 pelo nested- FtsZ (78,2%), correspondentes a 10 amostras de sangue periférico, cinco biópsias de linfonodos, duas biópsias de pele e um aspirado de gânglio. A nested-FtsZ foi mais sensível que a nested-HSP e a nested-ITS (p < 0,0001), possibilitando a detecção de DNA de Bartonella henselae em 15 de 18 pacientes (83,3%). No presente estudo, três nested-PCR, consideradas específicas para a amplificação da Bartonella henselae, foram desenvolvidas, porém somente a nested-FtsZ não amplificou o DNA de Bartonella quintana. Concluímos que amplificações duplas aumentaram a detecção de DNA de B. henselae, e que a nested-FtsZ foi a mais sensível e a única específica para B. henselae em diferentes amostras biológicas. Como todas as amostras detectadas pelo HSP-nested e nested-ITS foram também pela nested-FtsZ, inferimos que, em nossa casuística, as infecções foram causadas por Bartonella henselae. A elevada positividade de amostras de sangue chamou a atenção para a utilização deste material biológico na investigação de bartoneloses, independentemente do estado imune dos pacientes. Este fato é importante no caso de pacientes criticamente enfermos e crianças pequenas para evitar procedimentos mais invasivos, como biópsias e punções de gânglios.

Angioceratoma da vulva / Angiokeratoma of the vulva

Os angioceratomas são tumores benignos caracterizados por ectasia dos vasos sanguíneos da derme papilar associada à acantose e hiperceratose da epiderme. Ao exame dermatológico, os angioceratomas de Fordyce caracterizam-se por lesões papulo-ceratóticas de coloração eritemato-violácea. São mais comuns no escroto, sendo raramente relatada a localização vulvar. A histopatologia é particularmente importante para difer enciá-los de outros tumores benignos e malignos. O artigo relata o caso de uma mulher negra de meia idade com história de obstipação intestinal, varizes de membros inferiores e cesárea há 20 anos que apresentava múltiplos angioceratomas vulvares há três meses.

Angiokeratomas are benign tumors characterized by ectasia of blood vessels in the papillary dermis associated with acanthosis and hyperkeratosis of the epidermis. Dermatological examination of angiokeratomas of Fordyce is characterized by papular keratotic lesions of erythematous-violet color. They are more common in the scrotum, and vulvar involvement is rarely reported. Histopathology is particularly important to distinguish them from other benign and malignant tumors. The article reports the case of a middle-aged black woman with a history of chronic constipation, varicose veins of the lower limbs and cesarean section performed 20 years ago who had had multiple vulvar angiokeratomas for three months.