Criptococosis meníngea: características y desenlace clínico en un hospital de tercer nivel de Bogotá, Colombia / Meningeal cryptococcosis: characteristics and clinical outcome in a tertiary care hospital in Bogotá, Colombia

Introducción: La criptococosis meníngea es una infección oportunista universal que presenta factores pronósticos variables, especialmente en pacientes inmunosuprimidos. Objetivo: Identificar variables clínicas y paraclínicas asociadas con el desenlace, al final de la hospitalización, en pacientes con criptococosis meníngea atendidos en un hospital de tercer nivel en Bogotá, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo. La información se obtuvo por medio de registros de historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de criptococosis meníngea durante el periodo 2016-2021. Resultados: Se analizaron 54 casos, el 85,2 % de ellos de sexo masculino, con una mediana de edad de 38 años. El síntoma principal fue cefalea (74,1 %), con un promedio de duración de 30 días antes del ingreso. El 83,3 % tenía diagnóstico de VIH, con niveles de CD4 por debajo de 50 células/mm3 y recuentos elevados de carga viral. El líquido cefalorraquídeo mostró en más del 50 % hipertensión intracraneal, pleocitosis de predominio linfocitario, hiperproteinorraquia e hipoglucorraquia. El tipo de patógeno aislado más frecuente fue C. neoformans var neoformans. Las variables más prevalentes en el grupo de pacientes que fallecieron fueron la presencia de pleocitosis en LCR (p = 0,025), cultivo para hongo positivo (p = 0,02) y aislamiento C. neoformans var neoformans (p = 0,03). Discusión: La criptococosis meníngea es una patología frecuente en hombres en la cuarta década de la vida y con infección por VIH, sin embargo, los factores relacionados con la mortalidad parecen variar dependiendo de la localización geográfica. Conclusión: En nuestro estudio los factores más prevalentes fueron la presencia de pleocitosis en LCR, cultivo positivo, aislamiento de C. neoformans var neoformans.

Introduction: Meningeal cryptococcosis is a universal opportunistic infection that presents variable prognostic factors, especially in immunosuppressed patients. Objective: To identify clinical and paraclinical variables associated with the outcome at the end of hospitalization in patients with meningeal cryptococcosis treated at a tertiary care hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. Materials and methods: Descriptive observational study. The information was obtained through records of medical records of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of meningeal cryptococcosis during the period 2016-2021. Results: 54 cases were analyzed. 85,2 % men, with a median age of 38 years. The main symptom was headache (74,1 %), with an average duration of 30 days prior to admission. 83,3 % had a diagnosis of HIV, with CD4 levels below 50 cell/mm3 and high viral load counts. The cerebrospinal fluid showed in more than 50 % intracranial hypertension, pleocytosis of lymphocyte predominance, hyperprotein- orrhachia and hypoglycorrhachia. The most frequent type of pathogen isolated was C. neoformans var neoformans. And the most prevalent variables in the group of patients who died were the presence of pleocytosis in CSF (p = 0,025), culture for positive fungus (p = 0,02) and isolation of C. neoformans var neoformans (p = 0,03). Discussion: Meningeal cryptococcosis is a frequent pathology in men, in the fourth decade of life and with HIV infection, however, the factors related to mortality seem to vary depending on the geographical location. Conclusion: In our study, the most prevalent factors were the presence of pleocytosis in CSF, positive culture, isolation of C. neoformans var neoformans.

Características sociodemográficas y epidemiológicas de pacientes con inicio clínico de sida en Santiago de Cuba / Sociodemographic and epidemiological characteristics of patients with clinical onset of AIDS in Santiago de Cuba i: en

Introducción: Uno de los desafíos del milenio a nivel mundial es combatir el avance de la epidemia del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana/sida. Objetivo: Caracterizar a la población de pacientes con inicio clínico de sida según variables sociodemográficas y epidemiológicas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional y descriptivo, desde el 2017 hasta el 2021, de 87 personas diagnosticadas con inicio clínico del sida en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba. En el análisis estadístico se emplearon medidas de tendencia central y de dispersión, así como la distribución de frecuencias absolutas y relativas; también, se computaron intervalos de confianza de 95 % para las proporciones de las variables seleccionadas. Resultados: La edad promedio en la serie fue de 42 años (79,3 %); asimismo, predominaron el sexo masculino (91,9 %), el estado civil soltero (91,9 %), la vinculación laboral (72,4 %), los colores de la piel mestizo (52,8 %) y negro (39,3 %) y la procedencia urbana (73,5 %). El coito anal fue la principal forma de contagio (84,0 %), en tanto la mayoría de los afectados de ambos sexos (65,2 % en el masculino y 66,7 % en el femenino) no usaban el preservativo y en los hombres primó la homosexualidad (55,0 %). Conclusiones: El inicio clínico del sida predominó en hombres jóvenes solteros, con vínculo laboral, entre los cuales fueron muy significativas las conductas sexuales de riesgo.

Introduction: One of the millennium challenges worldwide is to fight the advance of the human immunodeficiency virus/aids. Objective: To characterize the sick population with clinical onset of AIDS according to sociodemographic and epidemiologic variables. Methods: An observational and descriptive study was carried out, from 2017 to 2021, of 87 people diagnosed with clinical onset of AIDS in Santiago de Cuba province. In the statistical analysis, measures of central tendency and dispersion were used, as well as the distribution of absolute and relative frequencies; also, confidence intervals of 95% were computed for the proportions of selected variables. Results: The average age in the series was 42 years (79.3%), likewise, there was a prevalence of the male sex (91.9%), single as marital status (91.9%), working bond (72.4%), mixed race (52.8%) and black skin color (39.3%), and the urban origin (73.5%). The anal coitus was the main way of infection (84.0%), while the majority of the affected individuals of both sexes (65.2% in males and 66.7% in females) did not use condoms and homosexuality predominated among men (55.0%). Conclusions: The clinical onset of AIDS prevailed in young and single men, with working bond, among whom risky sexual behaviors were very significant.

Sarcoma de Kaposi, sífilis e neurocriptococose em paciente HIV positivo / Kaposi's sarcoma, syphilis and neurocryptococcosis in an HIV-positive patient

A infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) tornou-se um problema de saúde pública em todo o mun-do nas últimas décadas. A principal característica do HIV é a supressão do sistema imunológico pelo ataque aos linfócitos T CD4+ que enfraquece o sistema imunológico e torna o indivíduo suscetível a infecções oportunistas, neoplasias secundárias e doenças neurológicas. Este estudo objetiva relatar e discutir o caso de um paciente HIV positivo que apresentou concomitantemente Sarcoma de Kaposi (SK), sífilis e neurocriptococose, todas doenças relacionadas ao HIV. Trata-se de um paciente masculino, 31 anos, que procurou o serviço do hospital de referência com lesões cutâneas violáceas em face, membros superiores e tórax, com três meses de evolução. Ao exame dermatológico exibiu placas eritematovioláceas infiltrativas, com bordas regulares, elevadas, descamativas e com diâmetros variáveis. Obteve sorologia positiva para anticorpos anti-HIV e VDRL, iniciando protocolos de terapia antirretroviral (TARV) e de tratamento para sífilis. O paciente retornou ao serviço 30 dias após alta hospitalar, com queixa de cefaleia de forte intensidade, refratária à analgesia com opioides, associada a vômitos persistentes. Re-alizada tomografia computadorizada de crânio, sem alterações, e, posteriormente, punção liquórica que evidenciou a presença de criptococo. Iniciado esquema terapêutico para neurocriptococose e realizadas outras duas punções liquóricas para alívio do quadro álgico. Este relato está de acordo com o que presume a literatura médica, reafirmando que pacientes HIV positivos apresentam maior predisposição para condições como o SK, a sífilis e a neurocriptococose. Dessa forma, o estudo ilustra com ineditismo a ocorrência simultânea de complexas manifestações clínicas no mesmo paciente imunossuprimido (AU).

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has become a worldwide public health problem in recent decades. The main characteristic of HIV is the suppression of the immune system by attacking CD4+ T lymphocytes, which weakens the immune system and makes the individual susceptible to opportunistic infections, secondary neoplasms, and neurological diseases. This study aims to report and discuss the case of an HIV-positive patient who presented concomitantly Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS), primary syphilis, and neurocryptococcosis, all HIV-related. This is a 31-year-old male patient who sought care at the reference hospital with violaceous skin lesions on the face, upper limbs and chest, with a three-month evolution. Dermatological examination showed infiltrative erythematous-violet plaques, with regular, elevated, scaly edges and varying diameters. He obtained positive serology for anti-HIV and VDRL antibodies, initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) and treatment protocols for primary syphilis. The patient re-turned to the service 30 days after hospital discharge, complaining of severe headache, refractory to analgesia with opioids, associated with persistent vomiting. Cranial computed tomography was performed and did not demonstrate alterations; later CSF puncture showed the presence of cryptococcus. A therapeutic scheme for neurocryptococcosis was started, and two other CSF punctures were performed to relieve the pain. This report agrees with the medical literature, reaffirming that HIV-positive patients present a greater predisposition to conditions such as KS, syphilis, and neurocryptococcosis. Thus, the study illustrates with uniqueness the simultaneous occurrence of complex clinical manifestations in the same immunosuppressed patient (AU),

Dental consensus on HSCT - Part II: dental Care during HSCT

ABSTRACT During the state of immune vulnerability in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), the patient has an increased risk of developing a vast number of complications, including severe problems in the oral cavity. These situations require professional oral care to act in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, as well as to develop prevention protocols to minimize patient's complications. Oral mucositis, opportunistic infections, bleeding, specific microbiota, taste, and salivary alterations are complications that can occur during HSCT and interfere with various aspects, such as pain control, oral intake, nutrition, bacteremia and sepsis, days of hospitalization and morbidity. Several guidelines have been published to address the role of professional oral care during the HSCT, we describe a consensus regarding these recommendations.

Mucormicosis invasora en pacientes con COVID-19: reporte de 2 casos / Invasive mucormycosis during COVID-19 infection. Report of two cases

COVID-19 disease is associated with a significant number of opportunistic infections, including invasive fungal infections such as mucormycosis. The prevalence of the latter is rare, estimated to be between 0.005 and 1.7 per million inhabitants. Risk factors include hematological diseases, Diabetes Mellitus with poor metabolic control, solid organ transplantation, neutropenia, and prolonged administration of systemic corticosteroids. We report two males aged 60 and 75 years with pulmonary and tracheobronchial invasive mucormycosis, respectively. Both patients had a deficient metabolic control of their diabetes as a predisposing risk factor added to severe COVID-19 infection. High suspicion and early diagnosis are essential for prompt treatment, especially considering the associated high morbidity and mortality of this fungal infection.

Tuberculosis y otras causas de morbilidad y mortalidad hospitalaria en pacientes con VIH/sida / Tuberculosis and other causes of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients with HIV/AIDS

Introducción: A diferencia de lo descrito en países desarrollados, en los que se informan las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles como causa de hospitalización en pacientes con VIH, en este estudio las principales causas de admisión hospitalaria y muerte fueron las infecciones oportunistas, particularmente la tuberculosis, algo similar a lo reportado en otros países de ingresos bajos en América y África Occidental, aun con la disponibilidad de la terapia antirretroviral. Objetivos: Se determinaron las causas más frecuentes de morbilidad y mortalidad hospitalaria en pacientes con VIH. Material y métodos: Se analizaron los datos demográficos, clínicos y de laboratorio de pacientes ingresados con diagnóstico de VIH durante un año, en un hospital de Guayaquil, Ecuador. Resultados: De 151 pacientes, el 76% era del sexo masculino, con 37 años en promedio. El 56.3% conocía el diagnóstico de infección por VIH. Las principales causas de hospitalización y muerte fueron las enfermedades definitorias de sida, entre las que las formas meníngeas, como criptococosis, toxoplasmosis, sífilis y leucoencefalopatía en conjunto, siguen a la tuberculosis; el 93.5% de los fallecidos tenía recuento de CD4 menor de 200 células/mm3 (p = 0.007). Conclusión: De manera similar a lo informado en pacientes adultos jóvenes con VIH en países de bajos ingresos económicos, las infecciones oportunistas fueron la principal causa de hospitalización y muerte, relacionada con inmunosupresión intensa, estadios avanzados de la enfermedad y falta de terapia antirretroviral. Los resultados refuerzan la importancia del diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento de la infección por VIH, así como la profilaxis de las infecciones oportunistas prevenibles.

Introduction: Unlike what has been described in developed countries where chronic non-communicable diseases are reported as the cause of hospitalization in patients with HIV, in this study the main cause of hospital admission and death were opportunistic infections, particularly tuberculosis similar to what was reported in other low-income countries in the Americas and West Africa even with the availability of antiretroviral therapy. Aim: The most frequent causes of hospital morbidity and mortality in patients with HIV were determined. Material and methods: The demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of patients admitted with a diagnosis of HIV for one year in a Guayaquil General Hospital were analyzed. Results: Of 151 patients, 76% were male with an average age of 37 years old. 56.3% knew the diagnosis of HIV infection. The main cause of hospitalization and death were AIDS-defining diseases where the meningeal forms: cryptococcosis, toxoplasmosis, syphilis and leukoencephalopathy together follow tuberculosis, and 93.5% of the deceased had a CD4 count of fewer than 200 cells/ mm3 (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Similar to what was reported in young adult patients with HIV in low-income countries, opportunistic infections were the main cause of hospitalization and death, related to severe immunosuppression, advanced stages of the disease, and without antiretroviral therapy. The results reinforce the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of HIV infection and the prophylaxis of preventable opportunistic infections.

Genes involucrados con resistencia antimicrobiana en hospitales del Ecuador / Genes involved with antimicrobial resistance in Ecuadorian hospitals

INTRODUCCIÓN. La resistencia a los antimicrobianos es un problema de salud pública actual asociado con alta mortalidad, hospitalización prolongada, alternativas terapéuticas reducidas, mayores costos económicos y la posibilidad de brotes hospitalarios. OBJETIVO. Describir los principales genes involucrados con resistencia antimicrobiana en hospitales del Ecuador. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Se realizó una descripción retrospectiva no experimental, de artículos indexados relacionados con resistencia antimicrobiana en hospitales del Ecuador, con evidencia desde el año 2009 al 2022. La revisión de bibliografías se llevó a cabo en bases de datos como Pubmed, Science Direct y Google Scholar. RESULTADOS. De un grupo original de 77 artículos, se seleccionaron 33 documentos. En Ecuador, varios estudios han descrito los mecanismos moleculares involucrados en la resistencia bacteriana. Sin embargo, en bacterias menos comunes, falta investigación sobre los genes asociados. CONCLUSIONES. Las principales bacterias multirresistentes descritas en Ecuador son Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli y Acinetobacter baumanni, las cuales presentan genes involucrados en la producción de carbapenemasas (blaKPC, blaNDM, blaOXA-48). Estas bacterias presentan altos niveles de resistencia a los antibióticos y son objeto de vigilancia epidemiológica por parte del sistema nacional de salud. A nivel local, otras bacterias presentan mecanismos de resistencia a los carbapenémicos (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter sp., Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter sp.), pero no existen descripciones detalladas del genotipo, sus características microbiológicas o la clínica del paciente. El conocimiento de las tasas de resistencia a los antimicrobianos en los diferentes hospitales, la implementación de un plan de administración de antibióticos, el uso correcto de los equipos de protección personal, el aislamiento de las personas con infecciones multirresistentes, así como el trabajo colaborativo entre las diferentes áreas del hospital, son esenciales para reducir la propagación de estos patógenos.

INTRODUCTION. Antimicrobial resistance is a current public health problem associated with high mortality, prolonged hospitalization, reduced therapeutic alternatives, increased economic costs, and the potential for hospital outbreaks. OBJECTIVE. To describe the main genes involved with antimicrobial resistance in hospitals in Ecuador. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A retrospective non-experimental description of indexed articles related to antimicrobial resistance in hospitals in Ecuador was carried out, with evidence from 2009 to 2022. The review of bibliographies was carried out in databases such as Pubmed, Science Direct and Google Scholar. RESULTS. From an original group of 77 articles, 33 papers were selected. In Ecuador, several studies have described the molecular mechanisms involved in bacterial resistance. However, in less common bacteria, research on the associated genes is lacking. CONCLUSIONS. The main multidrug-resistant bacteria described in Ecuador are Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter baumanni, which present genes involved in the production of carbapenemases (blaKPC, blaNDM, blaOXA-48). These bacteria present high levels of antibiotic resistance and are subject to epidemiological surveillance by the national health system. Locally, other bacteria present mechanisms of resistance to carbapenemics (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter sp., Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter sp.), but there are no detailed descriptions of the genotype, their microbiological characteristics or the patient's clinic. Knowledge of antimicrobial resistance rates in different hospitals, the implementation of an antibiotic stewardship plan, the correct use of personal protective equipment, the isolation of individuals with multidrug-resistant infections, as well as collaborative work between different areas of the hospital, are essential to reduce the spread of these pathogens.

Caracterização das infecções que acometem o usuário no momento do diagnóstico para o Hiv/Aids / Characterization of infections that affect the user at the moment of diagnosis for Hiv/Aids / Caracterización de las infecciones que afectan a los usuarios en el momento del diagnóstico del Vih/Sida

: O estado do Pará, de 2009 a 2019, apresentou um aumento de 46,5% na taxa de detecção de aids. O que destaca a importância de estudos para a avaliação e acompanhamento deste público. Objetivo: Analisar as infecções que acometem os usuários de um centro de referência no momento de seu diagnóstico para a infecção pelo HIV. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, realizado em um centro de referência da cidade de Santarém, Pará. A amostra foi de 332 prontuários de pacientes diagnosticados para o HIV nos anos de 2016 e 2017. A coleta de dados buscou informações sociodemográficas, clínicas e imunológicas dos pacientes no momento do diagnóstico para a infecção pelo HIV. Os dados foram organizados e analisados por estatística descritiva e inferencial, adotando- se p<0,05. Resultados: Observou-se prevalência do sexo masculino (67%), faixa etária de 15-24 anos (32,2%), solteiros (59%), com vínculo empregatício (64,5%), contagem de linfócitos T CD4+ ≥200 céls/mm3 (54,8%) e carga viral detectável (75,3%). A Candidíase (25%) e a Tuberculose (25%) predominaram como infecções oportunistas (IO), e a Sífilis (67,5%) como outras infecções. Conclusão: Conforme método proposto e os dados já informados, conclui-se que o diagnóstico para a Sífilis se associou ao sexo masculino, bem como a situação de contagem de linfócitos T CD4+ <200 céls/mm3 se associou com a presença de alguma infecção oportunista, da instalação da Candidíase e da Tuberculose.

Introduction: The state of Pará, from 2009 to 2019, showed a 46.5% increase in the AIDS detection rate. What stands out the importance of studies for the evaluation and monitoring of this public. Objective: Analyze the infections that affect the users of a reference center at the moment of diagnosis for HIV infection. Methods: Descriptive study, carried out in a reference center in the city of Santarém, Pará. The sample consisted of 332 records of patients diagnosed with HIV in the years 2016 and 2017. The data collection sought sociodemographic, clinical and immunological information of the patients at the moment diagnosis for HIV infection. The data were organized and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, adopting p <0.05. Results: There was a prevalence of males (67%), aged 15-24 years (32.2%), single (59%), with employment (64.5%), CD4 + T lymphocyte count ≥200 cells/mm3 (54.8%) and detectable viral load (75.3%). Candidiasis (25%) and Tuberculosis (25%) predominated as opportunistic infections (IO), and Syphilis (67.5%) as other infections. Conclusion: According to the proposed method and the data already reported, it is concluded that the diagnosis for Syphilis was associated with the male gender, as well as the situation of CD4 + T lymphocyte count <200 cells/mm3 was associated with the presence of some opportunistic infection, of the installation of Candidiasis and Tuberculosis.

Introducción: El estado de Pará, de 2009 a 2019, presentó un aumento del 46,5% en la tasa de detección del SIDA. Lo que pone de manifiesto la importancia de los estudios para la evaluación y el seguimiento de este público. Objetivo: Analizar las infecciones que sufren los usuarios de un centro de referencia en el momento de su diagnóstico de infección por VIH. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, realizado em um centro de referência da cidade de Santarém, Pará. La muestra fue de 332 historias clínicas de pacientes diagnosticados de VIH en los años 2016 y 2017. La recogida de datos buscaba información sociodemográfica, clínica e inmunológica de los pacientes en el momento del diagnóstico de la infección por VIH. Los datos se organizaron y analizaron mediante estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales, adoptando p<0,05. Resultados: Se observó la prevalencia del sexo masculino (67%), el grupo de edad de 15 a 24 años (32,2%), la soltería (59%), el empleo (64,5%), el recuento de linfocitos T CD4+ ≥200 células/mm3 (54,8%) y la carga viral detectable (75,3%). La candidiasis (25%) y la tuberculosis (25%) predominaron como infecciones oportunistas (IO), y la sífilis (67,5%) como otras infecciones. Conclusión: De acuerdo con el método propuesto y los datos ya informados, se concluye que el diagnóstico de Sífilis se asocia al sexo masculino, así como la situación de contagio de linfocitos T CD4+ <200 células/mm3 se asocia a la presencia de alguna infección oportunista, a la instauración de la Candidiasis y a la Tuberculosis.

Micosis diseminadas en pacientes con SIDA en un hospital de referencia

RESUMEN Introducción: las micosis diseminadas siguen aumentando su incidencia en pacientes inmunodeprimidos originando elevadas tasas de morbimortalidad. Los factores de riesgo más importantes asociados al desarrollo de infecciones oportunistas en pacientes infectados con el VIH son recuentos bajos de linfocitos T CD4+ y falta de adherencia al tratamiento con antirretrovirales. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas de las micosis diseminadas en pacientes con SIDA internados en el Departamento de Medicina Interna del Hospital Nacional, Itauguá, Paraguay, desde 2016 al 2018. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional descriptivo prospectivo y retrospectivo de corte transverso. Se incluyeron a todos los varones y mujeres mayores de 18 años con SIDA diagnosticados con micosis diseminada. La investigación fue aprobada por el Comité de Ética de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Nacional de Itapúa, Paraguay. Resultados: Se incluyeron 80 pacientes de los cuales 52 fueron varones con una edad media de 40 años ±10 años. La micosis más frecuente fue la candidiasis diseminada en 39 pacientes (49,5%), seguida por la criptococosis en 19 pacientes (23%). Del total de los pacientes, 69 (87%) tenían recuentos de CD4+ 100.000 copias y 41 sujetos (51%) habían abandonado el tratamiento antirretroviral. Los órganos más afectados fueron el tubo digestivo y aparato respiratorio. La mortalidad se observó en 17 casos (21%). Entre éstos, 11 (63%) sujetos presentaron falla renal y 9 (55%) estaban caquécticos. Conclusión: se encontró predominio de sexo masculino con una edad media de 40 años. La mayoría de los pacientes tenían carga viral elevada y recuento de CD4+ bajos. La micosis más frecuente fue la candidiasis. Uno de cada cuatro pacientes presentó criptococosis, con mayor frecuencia a nivel meníngeo. La mortalidad por micosis diseminada fue 21%.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Disseminated mycoses continue to increase their incidence in immunosuppressed patients, causing high rates of morbidity and mortality. The most important risk factors associated with the development of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected patients are low CD4+ T lymphocyte counts and lack of adherence to antiretroviral treatment. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of disseminated mycoses in patients with AIDS admitted to the Department of Internal Medicine of the Hospital Nacional of Itauguá, Paraguay from 2016 to 2018. Materials and methods: Prospective and retrospective descriptive cross-sectional observational study. All men and women older than 18 years with AIDS and diagnosed with disseminated mycosis were included. The research was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine of the National University of Itapúa, Paraguay. Results: Eighty patients were included, of which 52 were men with a mean age of 40 years ±10 years. The most frequent mycosis was disseminated candidiasis in 39 patients (49.5%), followed by cryptococcosis in 19 patients (23%). Of the total number of patients, 69 (87%) had CD4+ counts 100,000 copies, and 41 subjects (51%) had discontinued antiretroviral treatment. The most affected organs were the digestive tract and the respiratory system. Mortality was observed in 17 cases (21%) and among these, 11 (63%) subjects had renal failure and 9 (55%) were cachectic. Conclusion: Male predominance was found with a mean age of 40 years. Most of the patients had high viral load and low CD4+ counts. The most frequent mycosis was candidiasis. One in four patients presented cryptococcosis, most frequently at meningeal level. Mortality due to disseminated mycosis was 21%.

COVID-19 Associated Mucormycosis with Newly Diagnosed Diabetes Mellitus in Young Males - A Tertiary Care Experience

Abstract Introduction Patients with a history of or active COVID-19 infection are predisposed to the development of opportunist bacterial and fungal infections. A rising incidence of a rare occurring fungal infection earlier, called mucormycosis, has been reported in abundance across the globe since March 2021, especially in India just as the second wave of COVID-19 began, caused by the trifecta of hyperglycemia (new-onset or exacerbation of pre-existing diabetes), oxygen therapy (invasive or noninvasive ventilation), and prolonged intake of steroids. Objective The present study aimed at assessing the prevalence of post-COVID mucormycosis in males of younger age group and spread of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM). Methods A case-control study was performed over a period of 3 months among 60 male patients with confirmed diagnosis of mucormycosis. Individuals < 40 years old were included in the case group (n = 30), while those > 40 years old were included as controls (n = 30). Disease spread was assessed in three types of ROCM, that is, rhinomaxillary, rhino-orbital, and rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis. Results In the control group, the mean age was 48.47 years old, the mean HbA1c was 10.62 ± 1.88%, with most of them suffering from rhino-orbital mucormycosis. In the case group, the mean age was 31.57 years old, with a mean HbA1c of 10.11 ± 2.46%, and most patients had rhinomaxillary mucormycosis. The duration of steroid intake and mode of oxygen therapy were found to be significant in the severity of ROCM. Conclusion Rising cases of post-COVID mucormycosis have brought to light the fatal consequences of prolonged use of steroids and oxygen therapy towards the development and spread of ROCM among young and middle-aged males.

Cryptosporidium spp. en muestras de lavado broncoalveolar de pacientes VIH/sida en un hospital de Guayaquil, Ecuador / Cryptosporidium spp. in bronchoalveolar lavage samples of HIV/AIDS patients in a hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Introducción: Cryptosporidium spp. son parásitos que causan infecciones respiratorias principalmente en pacientes inmunocomprometidos. Objetivo: Detectar Cryptosporidium spp. en el lavado broncoalveolar (BAL) de pacientes VIH positivos y con síndrome respiratorio. Métodos: Se seleccionaron 60 muestras de BAL y se analizaron mediante microscopía óptica con tinción de Ziehl-Neelsen y PCR de punto final; esta última es una técnica eficiente para el diagnóstico de patógenos oportunistas. Se recolectaron datos clínicos y epidemiológicos de cada paciente. Resultados: La prevalencia hallada en este estudio mediante PCR de punto final fue del 5 %. Los signos y síntomas que se presentaron con mayor frecuencia, sobre todo en el grupo etario de 31 a 40 años, fueron fiebre, tos y disnea; sin embargo, no se obtuvieron asociaciones estadísticamente significativas a ninguna de las variables y no se pudo visualizar parásitos mediante la tinción de Ziehl-Neelsen. Conclusión: Cryptosporidium spp. puede causar infecciones pulmonares de difícil reconocimiento clínico, pues se confunde con otras infecciones oportunistas. En el presente estudio no puede establecerse si la detección del ADN parasitario correspondió a una verdadera infección o solamente a colonización, lo que es importante para implementar técnicas con mayor sensibilidad para el diagnóstico. Se debe considerar relevante la prevalencia encontrada en Ecuador, al ser inusualmente alta en comparación con países cercanos como Brasil(AU)

Introduction: Cryptosporidium spp. are parasites that cause respiratory infections mainly in immunocompromised patients. Objective: To detect Cryptosporidium spp. in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of HIV-positive patients with respiratory syndrome. Methods: Sixty samples of BAL were selected and analyzed by optical microscopy with Ziehl-Neelsen staining and end-point PCR. The latter is an efficient technique for the diagnosis of opportunistic pathogens. Clinical and epidemiological data were collected from every patient. Results: In this study, the prevalence by end-point PCR was 5%. The most frequent signs and symptoms, mainly in the age group 31-40 years old, were fever, cough, and dyspnea. However, no significant statistical associations to any variable were obtained, and no parasites were observed with the Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. Conclusions: Cryptosporidium spp. can cause pulmonary infections that are difficult to identify clinically, since they are confused with other opportunistic diseases. The current study could not establish whether the detection of parasitic DNA corresponded to a real infection or only to colonization, which is important to implement diagnostic techniques with greater sensitivity. The prevalence found in Ecuador should be considered relevant, as it is unusually high in comparison with nearby countries such as Brazil(AU)

Non invasive tests for diagnosis of parasitic infections of CNS

Central nervous system (CNS) infections are among the most devastating diseases with high mortality and morbidity. In the pre-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) era, the occurrence of CNS infections was very infrequent. However, in the past four decades or so, with a global increase in the immunocompromised population, the incidence of opportunistic infections of the CNS has changed. This includes a global increase in the incidence of parasitic infections such as Toxoplasma gondii. Infections such as neurocysticercosis and cerebral malaria are quite prevalent in developing countries. Early diagnosis of these infections is crucial for instituting accurate therapy and preventing mortality and morbidity. Despite advances in neuroimaging techniques, laboratory diagnosis remains the mainstay for confirmation of diagnosis. We present an update on the noninvasive tests available for laboratory diagnosis of parasitic infections of the CNS.

Risk Factors of Ulcerative Colitis Complicated With Opportunistic Intestinal Infection / 胃肠病学

Background: The risk of opportunistic infection in ulcerative colitis (UC) is significantly higher than that in healthy subjects, and has adverse impact on clinical outcome. Aims: To analyze the prevalence of opportunistic intestinal infection in UC patients and explore the risk factors of UC complicated with opportunistic infection. Methods: Clinical data of patients with UC hospitalized in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2012 to December 2020 were collected retrospectively. Information on demography, clinical characteristics, laboratory, endoscopic and pathological findings, as well as the medication histories were recorded; the factors associated with opportunistic intestinal infection were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: A total of 275 UC patients were included, with an opportunistic intestinal infection rate of 26.2%; among which, rates of cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein ‑ Barr virus (EBV), fungi, Clostridium difficile, amoeba, and multiple infection were 13.5%, 14.5%, 5.1%, 1.5%, 1.1%, and 9.1%, respectively. Multivariate Logistic analysis demonstrated that severe disease activity (OR=6.517, 95% CI: 1.487‑28.552, P=0.013) and albumin <30 g/L (OR=3.895, 95% CI: 1.590 ‑ 9.544, P=0.003) were independent risk factors for CMV infection. The independent risk factors for EBV infection included severe disease activity (OR=11.260, 95% CI: 2.249‑56.382, P=0.003), albumin <30 g/L (OR=2.548, 95% CI: 1.096‑5.927, P=0.030) and C‑reactive protein (CRP) elevation (OR=1.046, 95% CI: 1.007‑1.086, P=0.019). While for intestinal fungal infection, the risk in patients with chronic relapsing type UC was lower (OR=0.278, 95% CI: 0.087‑0.886, P=0.030). Intestinal multiple infection was mainly composed of viral infection, and the independent risk factors were similar to those of CMV and EBV infection. Conclusions: Most of the opportunistic intestinal infection in UC patients is viral infection. Disease activity, inflammatory response and reduced albumin are risk factors for intestinal viral infection in UC patients, while the risk of fungal infection is only related to clinical subtyping.

Prevalence and factors associated with late diagnosis of the HIV infection in a municipality of São Paulo / Prevalencia y factores asociados al diagnóstico tardío de la infección ocasionada por el VIH en un municipio de São Pauloo / Prevalência e fatores associados ao diagnóstico tardio da infecção pelo hiv em um município paulista

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the prevalence and factors associated with late diagnosis of the infection by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), in a municipality of São Paulo. Method: an epidemiological, analytical and retrospective study that analyzed the HIV and AIDS cases notified by the health services in the period from 2015 to 2017 using data from the notifications of the Information System for Notifiable Diseases (SINAN Net) corresponding to the users recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS infection in the municipality of Ribeirão Preto/SP, Brazil. Data collection was in May 2018. The chi-square test was performed, as well as binary logistic regression, where the dependent variable was the AIDS criterion at the moment of notifying infection by HIV. A p-value<0.05 was considered for the association between the variables studied in relation to late diagnosis. Results: of the 829 (100%) new HIV cases, 290 (35.0%) were diagnosed in the condition of AIDS. Most of the population was male and aged between 15 and 34 years old. Oral candidiasis and weight loss greater than 10% were the main symptoms associated with AIDS. It was observed that people with lower schooling levels and older were more prone to late diagnoses. Conclusion: it is necessary to devise strategies that favor timely diagnosis in the municipality under study, particularly among the individuals aged over 45 years old and with lower schooling levels.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar la prevalencia y los factores asociados al diagnóstico tardío de la infección ocasionada por el Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Humana (HIV) en un municipio del interior de Brasil. Método: estudio epidemiológico, analítico y retrospectivo que analizó los casos de VIH y SIDA notificados por los servicios de salud entre 2015 y 2017 por medio de los datos de las notificaciones del Sistema de Información de Problemas de Salud pasibles de Notificación (SINAN Net) referentes a los usuarios recién diagnosticados con la infección ocasionada por el VIH/SIDA en el municipio de Ribeirão Preto/SP, Brasil. La recolección de datos fue en mayo de 2018. Se realizaron tanto una prueba de chi-cuadrado como un análisis de regresión logística binaria, en la cual la variable dependiente fue el criterio de SIDA al momento de notificar la infección ocasionada por el HIV. Se consideró un valor de p<0,05 para la asociación entre las variables estudiadas en relación con el diagnóstico tardío. Resultados: entre los 829 (100%) casos nuevos de HIV, 290 (35,0%) fueron diagnosticados en la condición de SIDA. La mayoría de la población era del sexo masculino y pertenecía al grupo etario de 15 a 34 años. Candidiasis oral y pérdida de peso superior al 10% fueron los principales síntomas asociados al SIDA. Se observó que las personas con niveles de educación más bajos y de mayor edad fueron más propensas a ser diagnosticadas tardíamente. Conclusión: es necesario elaborar estrategias que favorezcan el diagnóstico oportuno en el municipio estudiado, particularmente entre las personas de más de 45 años de edad y con niveles de educación más bajos.

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar a prevalência e os fatores associados ao diagnóstico tardio da infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), em um município do interior paulista. Método: estudo epidemiológico, analítico e retrospectivo que analisou os casos de HIV e AIDS notificados pelos serviços de saúde no período de 2015 a 2017 por meio dos dados das notificações do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan Net) dos usuários recém-diagnosticados para a infecção pelo HIV/AIDS no município de Ribeirão Preto/SP, Brasil. A coleta de dados ocorreu em maio de 2018. Foi realizado o teste qui-quadrado e regressão logística binária, no qual a variável dependente foi o critério de AIDS no momento da notificação da infecção pelo HIV. Foi considerado o valor de p<0,05 para a associação entre as variáveis estudadas com relação ao diagnóstico tardio. Resultados: dentre os 829 (100%) casos novos de HIV, 290 (35,0%) foram diagnosticados na condição de AIDS. A maioria da população pertencia ao sexo masculino e na faixa etária dos 15 aos 34 anos. A candidose oral e a perda de peso acima de 10% foram os principais sintomas associados à AIDS. Observou-se que pessoas com menor escolaridade e com o aumento da idade eram mais propensas a serem diagnosticadas tardiamente. Conclusão: estratégias que favoreçam o diagnóstico oportuno no município estudado são necessárias, particularmente entre os indivíduos com idade acima de 45 anos e com menor escolaridade.

Epidemiological profile and follow-up of patients with pulmonary disease by non-tuberculous mycobacteria in Baixada Santista area, São Paulo

ABSTRACT Objective To present the frequency and species diversity of non-tuberculous mycobacteria, estimate the prevalence of non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease, describe the epidemiological profile, and determine the follow-up of patients with non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease living in a region with a high burden of tuberculosis. Methods This a retrospective cohort observational study using data records obtained from the Instituto Adolfo Lutz - Santos and from the São Paulo Sistema de Vigilância de Tuberculose do Estado de São Paulo in the period between 2000 and 2009. The studied variables were: socio-demographic characteristics, current and past history of tuberculosis, aspects related to diagnosis, and treatment and associated diseases. Results We included 319 non-tuberculous mycobacteria isolates in the study, corresponding to 257 patients. The species Mycobacterium kansasii (28.5%) and Mycobacterium fortuitum (16.6%) presented the higher occurrence. In 10.9% (24) of the patients, there was a criterion for confirming a case of pulmonary disease due to non-tuberculous mycobacteria. In relation to gender and age, male and individuals over 50 years old were the most frequent. Considering the confirmed cases, 47.8% had a past history of tuberculosis. Conclusion The lack of information about the cases is evident, since pulmonary disease due to non-tuberculous mycobacteria is not mandatory. The therapeutic regimen according to the identified species is fundamental for success in combating the infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria. Besides that, information about the regional epidemiology of pulmonary disease caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria and the search for associations with other comorbidities are important to establish the correct treatment. In order to improve surveillance of pulmonary diseases by non-tuberculous mycobacteria, we suggest the implantation of a sentinel surveillance and of population-based studies.

Opportunistic Infections and associated factors among HIV infected patients on anti-retroviral treatment at Bombo Hospital in Tanga Region, Tanzania

Background: A substantive number of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) develop Opportunistic Infections (OIs). The introduction of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) in Tanzania led to a significant decline in opportunistic infections and a slower progression to AIDS, but OIs are still prevalent. This study was set to determine the magnitude of OIs and associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) attending care and treatment clinic at Bombo Regional Referral hospital, Tanga region. Materials And Methods: A cross­sectional descriptive study was conducted on HIV/AIDS patients on ART attending Bombo Hospital in Tanga from July to October 2019. A non-probability, consecutive sampling technique was employed to obtain study participants. Data were collected using available data obtained from the patients' files, hospital record books and interviews of study participants by using semi-structured questionnaires. Data were entered into the computer using Excel 2013, cleaned and analysed using Epi Info version 7.2.2.6. Any p-value of < 0.05, at a 95% confidence interval was regarded as statistically significant. Results : The study showed that out of the 360 participants, 126 cases (35.0%) of OIs were reported. Pulmonary Tuberculosis had the highest prevalence of 18.0% among PLHIV while other opportunistic Infections altogether contributed 17.0%. Late ART initiation (OR=10.9, 95% CI: 6.5 ­ 18.3, p-value <0.001), Poor drug adherence (OR=19, 95% CI: 9.0 ­ 39.7, p-value <0.001), female gender (69% vs. 31%), which was however, not statistically significant (p-value ­ 0.904), Informal and Primary School education (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1 ­ 1.6, p-value 0.04) being married (OR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.3 ­ 3.4, p ­ value 0.004) and widowed/widower (OR=7.7, 95% CI: 1.7 ­ 33.7, p ­ value 0.007) respectively were found to be associated with OIs to PLHIV.CONCLUSION : The rate of OIs still high among PLHIV, Pulmonary Tuberculosis is the leading disease with 18.0% of all OIs symptomatic patients. Delay in ART initiation after positive test results, poor drug adherence and moderate malnutrition have been identified as major risk factors affecting 66.0%, 70.0%, 71%of PLWHA with OIs. We recommend early initiation of ART, Education on ART adherence and refilling of large quantities of ARV drugs to individuals working far from their homes.

Infecciones asociadas con dispositivos, perfil microbiológico y resistencia bacteriana en unidades de cuidados intensivos de Casanare, Colombia / Device-Associated Infections, Microbiological Profile and Bacterial Resistance in Intensive Care Units of Casanare ­ Colombi / Infecções associadas a dispositivos, perfil microbiológico e resistência bacteriana em unidades de terapia intensiva em Casanare (Colômbia)

Introducción: Entre las infecciones asociadas con la atención en salud, las relacionadas con dispositivos constituyen la patología más común en los pacientes que ingresan al servicio de cuidados intensivos. Objetivos: Determinar la distribución de las infecciones asociadas con dispositivos, su perfil microbiológico y resistencia bacteriana en las unidades de cuidados intensivos del departamento de Casanare, Colombia entre 2019 y 2020. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de corte transversal. La población de estudio fueron 93 pacientes admitidos entre enero de 2019 y diciembre de 2020 en dos unidades de cuidados intensivos del depar-tamento de Casanare. La información fue suministrada por la Secretaría de Salud Departamental, a través de los reportes de los laboratorios clínicos por medio del programa WHONET 5.6. Resultados: Las infecciones del torrente sanguíneo asociadas con el uso de catéter fueron las más frecuentes, con un 84 % (n: 78); seguidas de las infecciones sintomáticas de las vías urinarias asociadas con catéter, con un 12 % (n: 11), y en menor proporción las neumonías asociadas con ventilador mecánico, en un 4 % (n: 4). Las bacterias gramnegativas presentaron mayor frecuencia (61 %; n: 14) en relación con las grampositivas (39 %; n: 9). Conclusión: Las infecciones más frecuentes en los servicios analizados fueron las del torrente sanguíneo asociadas con el catéter y Pseudomonas aeruginosa fue el microrganismo más prevalente en los tres tipos de infección; mien-tras que el Enterococcus faecium fue resistente a una variedad de antibióticos. Tales resultados, al ser comparados con estudios realizados en varios países, demostraron que la distribución de estas infecciones es variable. Palabras clave: infecciones oportunistas; unidad de cuidados intensivos; dispositivos de acceso vascular; neumonía asociada al ventilador; infecciones relacionadas con catéteres; agentes antibacterianos; resistencia a medicamentos.

Introduction: Among health care associated infections, device associated infections are the most common pathology in patients admitted to the intensive care service. Objectives: To determine the distribution of device-associated infections, their microbiological profile and bacterial resistance, in the intensive care units of the Department of Casanare between 2019 and 2020. Materials and methods: An observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study was carried out. The study population was 93 patients admitted between January 2019 and December 2020 in two Inten-sive Care Units of the Department of Casanare. The information was provided by the Departmental Health Secretariat through the reports of the Clinical Laboratories through the WHONET 5.6 program. Results: Catheter-associated bloodstream infections were the most frequent with 84% (n: 78), fo-llowed by catheter-associated symptomatic urinary tract infections with 12% (n: 11) and associated pneumonia to a lesser extent 4% mechanical ventilator (n: 4). Gram negative bacteria had a higher frequency 61% (n: 14) compared to Gram positive ones 39% (n: 9). Conclusion: The infection associated with devices, the most frequent in the analyzed services were the infections of the blood stream associated with the catheter and P. aeruginosa was the most preva-lent microorganism in the three types of infection. E. faecium presented resistance to a variety of an-tibiotics, results that when compared with studies carried out in several countries worldwide showed that the distribution of these infections is variable.

Introdução: Entre as infecções associadas aos cuidados de saúde, as infecções associadas a dispositi-vos são a patologia mais comum em pacientes internados em terapia intensiva. Objetivo: Determinar a distribuição de infecções associadas a dispositivos, seu perfil microbiológico e resistência bacteriana em unidades de terapia intensiva no departamento de Casanare, Colômbia entre 2019 e 2020. Materiais e métodos: Estudo retrospectivo observacional transversal. A população do estudo foi de 93 pacientes admitidos entre janeiro de 2019 e dezembro de 2020 em duas unidades de terapia in-tensiva no departamento de Casanare. As informações foram fornecidas pela Secretaria de Saúde do Departamento, através de informes de laboratório clínico utilizando o programa WHONET 5.6. Resultado: As infecções da corrente sanguínea associadas a cateteres foram as mais frequentes com 84% (n: 78), seguidas pelas infecções do trato urinário sintomáticas associadas a cateteres com 12% (n: 11), e em menor grau as pneumonias associadas a ventiladores mecânicos com 4% (n: 4). As bac-térias gram-negativas eram mais frequentes (61%; n: 14) do que as gram-positivas (39%; n: 9). Conclusão: As infecções mais frequentes nos serviços analisados foram infecções associadas a cate-teres e Pseudomonas aeruginosa foi o microrganismo mais prevalente nos três tipos de infecção, en-quanto Enterococcus faecium era resistente a uma variedade de antibióticos. Tais resultados, quando comparados com estudos realizados em vários países, demonstraram que a distribuição dessas infe-cções é variável.

Pseudomicosis por oportunistas: desconocimiento y retos diagnósticos / Pseudomycosis due to opportunists: Lack of knowedge and diagnostic challenges

Resumen Se denominan pseudomicosis a las infecciones generadas por microorganismos que parecen hongos pero que no lo son. En esta revisión se abordan desde una perspectiva etiológica, epidemiológica y clínica algunas de las pseudomicosis por oportunistas más frecuentes: actinomicosis, botriomicosis, nocardiosis y prototecosis. Adicionalmente, se revisan las herramientas clínicas y paraclínicas para facilitar su diagnóstico y se actualizan las pautas de tratamiento.

Abstract Infections generated by microorganisms that look like fungi but are not fungal are called pseudomycosis. This review addresses pseudomycosis by more frequent opportunists: actinomicosis, botryomycosis, nocardiosis and prototechosis, from an etiological, epidemiological and clinical perspective. In addition, clinical and paraclinical tools are reviewed to facilitate diagnosis, and and treatment guides are updated.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in a cohort of HIV- infected patients from Antioquia, Colombia / Prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en una cohorte de pacientes positivos para HIV en Antioquia, Colombia

Abstract | Introduction: HIV infection is still a public health problem worldwide and co-infections with other infectious agents including intestinal parasites are of particular concern, mainly in developing countries like Colombia. Objective: To conduct a cross-sectional study in patients attending an HIV care program in Antioquia given that there have been few intestinal parasites prevalence studies among the HIV population in the country. Material and methods: We evaluated stool samples from 192 patients by direct wet mount and concentration, modified Ziehl Neelsen staining, and agar plate culture. Univariate and correlation analyses were done to explore the association between socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and parasitological data. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites in HIV-positive subjects was 29.2% (56/192; 95% CI: 22.8% - 35.6%). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkosvkii with 13.0% (25/192; 95% CI: 8.2% - 17.8%) and Blastocystis with 12.0% (23/192; 95% CI: 7.4% -16.6%) were the most frequent. Opportunistic parasites like Cryptosporidium spp. and Cystoisospora belli were less prevalent, each one with 0.5% of positive samples (1/192; 95% CI: 0.1% - 1.5%). Commensal protozoa were also detected with a prevalence of 18.8% (36/192; 95% CI: 13.3% - 24.3%). Most of the individuals in the study had a controlled viral load and an LTCD4 count greater than 200 cel/µL. A small percentage (9.3%) had diarrhea. Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression showed that only age and having pets had a significant association with intestinal parasites in this cohort. Conclusions: Our results confirmed that the evaluated population is at high risk of intestinal parasite infection, which highlights the need for routine screening of gastrointestinal parasites to provide prompt treatment and reduce possible complications.

Resumen | Introducción. La infección por HIV y las coinfecciones con otros agentes infecciosos, incluidos los parásitos intestinales, son motivo de especial preocupación en países en desarrollo como Colombia. Objetivo. Hacer un estudio transversal en pacientes que asisten a un programa de atención de HIV en el departamento de Antioquia, dado que los estudios de prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en la población con HIV son escasos en el país. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluaron 192 muestras de materia fecal mediante examen coprológico directo y por concentración, tinción de Ziehl-Neelsen modificada, y aislamiento en agar. Se hicieron análisis univariados y de correlación, para explorar la asociación entre las características sociodemográficas y clínicas, y los datos parasitológicos. Resultados. La prevalencia global de parásitos intestinales en pacientes positivos para VIH fue del 29.2 % (56/192; IC95% 22.8-35.6 %), siendo Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkosvkii, con 13.0 % (25/192; IC95% 8.2-17.8 %), y Blastocystis, con 12.0 % (23/192; IC95% 7.4-16.6 %), los mas frecuentes. Los parásitos oportunistas Cryptosporidium spp. Y Cystoisospora belli fueron menos prevalentes, cada uno con 0.5 % (1/192; IC95% 0.1-1.5 %) de muestras positivas. También, se detectaron protozoos comensales, con una prevalencia del 18,8 % (36/192; IC95% 13,3-24,3 %). La mayoría de los individuos tenía una carga viral controlada y un recuento de linfocitos T CD4 superior a 200 células/μl. Un pequeño porcentaje (9,3 %) presentó diarrea. La edad y el tener mascotas mostraron una asociación significativa con la presencia de parásitos intestinales. Conclusión. Se confirmó que la población evaluada tiene un alto riesgo de infección por parásitos intestinales, lo que resalta la necesidad de un protocolo de diagnóstico para el cribado de dichos agentes, con el fin de brindar un tratamiento rápido y reducir las posibles complicaciones.

Case for diagnosis. Ulcer and papular lesions in a patient with diabetes mellitus. protothecosis

Abstract Protothecosis is a rare disease caused by achlorophilic algae of the genus Prototheca spp. In general, three clinical forms are observed: cutaneous, articular and systemic. The cutaneous form is the most common one. This study describes a patient with isolated erythematous papules and erythematous papular plaques in the scapular regions, with a previous histopathological diagnosis of cryptococcosis. New tests were conclusive for the diagnosis of protothecosis, caused by Prototheca wickerhamii.