Puntaje APP como predictor de mortalidad en pacientes con síndrome de dificultad respiratoria agudo grave por COVID-19 en un hospital referencial del norte del Perú

Introducción: La mortalidad por pacientes por COVID-19 grave que desarrollaban neumonía grave y síndrome de dificultad respiratoria agudo (SDRA) grave ha sido significativa a pesar del tratamiento oportuno. Es importante determinar predictores tempranos de enfermedad que nos ayuden a estratificar aquellos pacientes con mayor riesgo de fallecer. Se pretende estudiar el comportamiento del puntaje APP (APPS) como predictor de ello, basados en algunos reportes de uso y utilidad en el SDRA. no COVID-19. Objetivo: Determinar si el APPS es útil como predictor de mortalidad en SDRA. por COVID-19 grave. Pacientes y Método: Se realizó un estudio tipo cohorte retrospectivo, incluyendo pacientes de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI), con SDRA. por COVID-19 grave, que ingresaron a la UCI del Hospital Regional Docente de Trujillo (HRDT) en el período abril 2020- abril 2021. Se evalúo la utilidad del APPS como predictor de mortalidad em dicha población. Resultados: El APPS demostró ser un factor asociado a mortalidad en pacientes con SDRA. y COVID-19 grave (RPa 1,34; IC 95% 1,16 a 1,56; p < 0,001). Además, encontramos que, al realizar un modelo de predicción ajustado por edad, sexo, SOFA, APPS, shock, Indice de Charlson (ICh), se comportan como factores asociados a mortalidad el APPS, el sexo masculino (RPa: 1,48; IC 95% 1,09 a 2,049; p < 0,05) y el ICh (RPa: 1,11; IC 95% 1,02 a 1,21; p < 0,05). Conclusión: El APPS, el sexo masculino y el ICh son predictores de mortalidad en SDRA. por COVID-19 grave.

Background: Mortality in patients with severe COVID-19 who developed severe pneumonia and severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been significant despite timely treatment. It is important to determine early predictors of disease that help us to stratify those patients with a higher risk of death. It is intended to study the behavior of the APPS score as a predictor of this, based on some reports of use and usefulness in non-COVID-19 ARDS. Aim: To determine if the APP score is useful as a predictor of mortality in ARDS due to severe COVID-19. Method: A retrospective cohort study was carried out, including patients from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with ARDS due to severe COVID-19 who were admitted to the ICU of the Trujillo Regional Teaching Hospital (HRDT) in the period March 2020 to March 2021. The usefulness of the APP score as a predictor of mortality in mentioned population was evaluated. Results: The APP score proved to be a factor associated with mortality in patients with ARDS and severe COVID-19 (APR 1.34; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.56; p < 0.001). We also found that when performing a prediction model adjusted for age, sex, SOFA, APP score, shock and Charlson Index (ICh) we found that the APP score, male sex (APR: 1.48; 95% CI 1.09 to 2.049; p < 0.05) and the ICh behave as factors associated with mortality (RPa: 1.11; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.21; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The APP score, male sex, and ICh are predictors of mortality in ARDS due to severe COVID-19.

Efectos cerebrales del oxígeno y el dióxido de carbono en el síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda

Introducción: El síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda producido por la COVID-19 provoca alteraciones en el intercambio de oxígeno y la excreción de dióxido de carbono con consecuencias neurológicas. Objetivo: Describir las implicaciones del oxígeno y el dióxido de carbono sobre la dinámica cerebral durante el tratamiento ventilatorio del síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda en el accidente cerebrovascular. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda en bases referenciales como: PubMed/Medline, SciELO, Google Académico y BVS Cuba. Los términos incluidos fueron brain-lung crosstalk, ARDS, mechanical ventilation, COVID-19 related stroke, ARDS related stroke y su traducción al español. Fueron referenciados libros de neurointensivismo y ventilación mecánica artificial. El período de búsqueda incluyó los últimos 20 años. Se seleccionaron 46 bibliografías que cumplieron con los criterios de selección. Resultados: Se ha descrito que los niveles de oxígeno y dióxido de carbono participan en la neurorregulación vascular en pacientes con daño cerebral. Algunas alteraciones alusivas son la vasodilatación cerebral refleja o efectos vasoconstrictores con reducción de la presión de perfusión cerebral. Como consecuencia aumenta la presión intracraneal y aparecen afectaciones neurocognitivas, isquemia cerebral tardía o herniación del tronco encefálico. Conclusiones: El control de la oxigenación y la excreción de dióxido de carbono resultaron cruciales para mantener la homeostasis neuronal, evita la disminución de la presión de perfusión cerebral y el aumento de la presión intracraneal. Se sugiere evitar la hipoxemia e hiperoxemia, limitar o eludir la hipercapnia y usar hiperventilación hipocápnica solo en condiciones de herniación del tallo encefálico.

Introduction: The acute respiratory distress syndrome produced by COVID-19 causes alterations in the exchange of oxygen and the excretion of carbon dioxide with neurological consequences. Objective: To describe the implications of oxygen and carbon dioxide on brain dynamics during ventilatory treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome in stroke. Methods: A search was carried out in referential bases such as PubMed/Medline, SciELO, Google Scholar and VHL Cuba. The terms included were brain-lung crosstalk, ARDS, mechanical ventilation, COVID-19 related stroke, ARDS related stroke and their translation into Spanish. Books on neurointensive care and artificial mechanical ventilation were referenced. The search period included the last 20 years. Forty six bibliographies that met the selection criteria were selected. Results: Oxygen and carbon dioxide levels have been described to participate in vascular neuroregulation in patients with brain damage. Some allusive alterations are reflex cerebral vasodilatation or vasoconstrictor effects with reduced cerebral perfusion pressure. As a consequence, intracranial pressure increases and neurocognitive impairments, delayed cerebral ischemia or brainstem herniation appear. Conclusions: The control of oxygenation and the excretion of carbon dioxide were crucial to maintain neuronal homeostasis, avoiding the decrease in cerebral perfusion pressure and the increase in intracranial pressure. It is suggested to avoid hypoxemia and hyperoxemia, limit or avoid hypercapnia, and use hypocapnic hyperventilation only in conditions of brainstem herniation.

EFFECT OF PRONE POSITIONING WITH HFNO IN MODERATE TO SEVERE ARDS

INTRODUCTION: The WHO, broadcasted COVID 19 as a public health emergency onJANUARY 30th ,2020 and subsequently declared a pandemic on MARCH 11th2020.Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major complication of COVID-19that occurs in 20-41% of patients with severe disease.The pathophysiology of ARDS andCOVID-19 lung injury share many of the same aspects of reduced lung parenchymalcompliance, vasculopathy, alveolar flooding, and gas exchange impairment arising fromdirect infectious causes and noninfectious injuries.In patients with pneumonia,HFNOallows improved mobilisation of secretions,minimises oxygen dilution,meets inspiratorydemands and improve end-expiratory lung volumes.According to the present theories,prone positioning, by reducing ventral alveolar expansion and dorsal alveolar collapse,results in ventilation that is more homogeneous.OBJECTIVE: The goal of our study is to evaluate the reduction in consumption of oxygenby using proning as an adjunct to HFNO in patients of COVID 19 admitted in ICU.METHOD: This is an observational cross sectional type of study, which includes patientswho were hemodynamically stable and required HFNO to maintain oxygenation. Allpatients were counselled for the benefits of proning. Proning was done with the help ofnursing staff. All vitals were noted before proning and all throughout proning. We keptpatients in a prone position till patients were comfortable and duration of proning wasnoted. We titrated oxygen requirement (FIO2 and flow) to target spo2 level of 93-95%.RESULT: We studied in 26 patients on HFNO with proning, we found that proning helpsin 11-50% reduction in oxygen requirement to achieve target Spo2 level.The mean value ofoxygen consumption was 20833.27 L/HR with only use of HFNO which was more than15996.92 L/HR when patients were encouraged to be prone along with the use ofHFNO.The collected data was analysed and unpaired t test was applied after which p valueof 0.0154 was obtained, which is statistically significant.CONCLUSION: Based on this study it is concluded that there is significant reduction inconsumption of oxygen by using the prone position as an adjunct to HFNO in patients ofCOVID 19.

Síndrome de infusión de propofol y COVID-19. Reporte de caso / Propofol and COVID-19 infusion syndrome. Case report

Resumen: La forma grave de neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) cursa en la mayoría de los casos con un síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda (SDRA). Es necesario emplear sedación durante su ventilación mecánica, el propofol es el que más de utiliza por su farmacocinética y farmacodinamia. El propofol es un anestésico que se usa ampliamente en las unidades de cuidados intensivos. Su empleo puede provocar un efecto adverso poco frecuente, pero en extremo grave, conocido como síndrome por infusión de propofol (SIP), el cual se encuentra estrechamente asociado a la velocidad de infusión aunado a factores de riesgos propios del paciente. Se caracteriza principalmente por inestabilidad hemodinámica, acidosis láctica y por progresión a disfunción multiorgánica. Se presenta un caso de SIP en paciente con síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda (SDRA) secundario a SARS-CoV-2 que desarrolla esta complicación asociada a la sedación. Se discute fisiopatológica clínica y consideraciones que deberán tomarse en cuenta al momento de su utilización en infusión continua.

Abstract: The severe form of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia (COVID-19) occurs in most cases with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), requiring the use of sedation during mechanical ventilation, with propofol being the most widely used for its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Propofol is a widely used anesthetic in intensive care units (ICU). Its use can cause an infrequent but extremely serious adverse effect, known as propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS), which is closely associated with the speed of infusion coupled with risk factors specific to the patient, the clinical features of PRIS are hemodynamic instability, lactic acidosis and with progression to multi-organ dysfunction. We present a case of SIP in a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to SARS-CoV-2 who develops this complication associated with sedation, discusses clinical pathophysiology and considerations that should be taken into account when using it in continuous infusion.

Application of prone position in severe ARDS caused by pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia after kidney transplantation / 器官移植

Objective To investigate the improvement of oxygenation after the treatment of prone position in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) after kidney transplantation. Methods Clinical data of 5 cases of moderate and severe ARDS caused by PJP after kidney transplantation were analyzed retrospectively, and clinical characteristics, treatment regimen and prognosis were summarized. Results Clinical manifestations of 5 patients were fever, dry cough, chest tightness, shortness ofbreath,sweating and fatigue, and body temperature fluctuated between 38 ℃ and 39 ℃, percutaneous arterial oxygen saturation(SpO2) was gradually decreased, and respiratory distress symptoms were worsened. Pulmonary CT scan showed diffuse ground-glass shadow. After transfer to intensive care unit (ICU), immunosuppressive drugs were terminated, and all patients were given with compound sulfamethoxazole, caspofungin, low-dose glucocorticoids against pneumocystis jirovecii (PJ), oxygen therapy and other symptomatic supportive treatments. Four patients diagnosed with severe ARDS upon admission to ICU were treated in a prone position. One patient with moderate ARDS was not kept in a prone position. At 1 d after treatment in a prone position, partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) and oxygenation index were increased, whereas alveolar-arterial oxygen difference (A-aDO2) was decreased compared with before treatment (allP<0.05). Compared with 1 d after treatment, SpO2, PaO2 and oxygenation index were all increased, while A-aDO2 was decreased at 4 d after treatment (all P<0.05). Box diagram showed that oxygenation index showed an overall upward trend after prone-position treatment, whereas A-aDO2 showed an overall downward trend. The length of ICU stay of 5 patients was 14 (8, 29) d. All patients in a prone position did not develop complications, such as skin pressure sore, tube detachment and tube displacement, etc. Among 5 patients, 4 patients were mitigated, and 1 patient died of septic shock and multiple organ failure. Conclusions For both conscious and intubated patients, a prone position may significantly improve oxygenation and prognosis of patients with severe ARDS caused by PJP after kidney transplantation. Early diagnosis and accurate and standardized treatment play a pivotal role in enhancing cure rate.

Mechanism of Xuebijing Injection in treatment of sepsis-associated ARDS based on network pharmacology and in vitro experiment / 中国中药杂志

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect and molecular mechanism of Xuebijing Injection in the treatment of sepsis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS) based on network pharmacology and in vitro experiment. The active components of Xuebijing Injection were screened and the targets were predicted by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform(TCMSP). The targets of sepsis-associated ARDS were searched against GeneCards, DisGeNet, OMIM, and TTD. Weishengxin platform was used to map the targets of the main active components in Xuebijing Injection and the targets of sepsis-associated ARDS, and Venn diagram was established to identify the common targets. Cytoscape 3.9.1 was used to build the "drug-active components-common targets-disease" network. The common targets were imported into STRING for the building of the protein-protein interaction(PPI) network, which was then imported into Cytoscape 3.9.1 for visualization. DAVID 6.8 was used for Gene Ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) enrichment of the common targets, and then Weishe-ngxin platform was used for visualization of the enrichment results. The top 20 KEGG signaling pathways were selected and imported into Cytoscape 3.9.1 to establish the KEGG network. Finally, molecular docking and in vitro cell experiment were performed to verify the prediction results. A total of 115 active components and 217 targets of Xuebijing Injection and 360 targets of sepsis-associated ARDS were obtained, among which 63 common targets were shared by Xuebijing Injection and the disease. The core targets included interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β), IL-6, albumin(ALB), serine/threonine-protein kinase(AKT1), and vascular endothelial growth factor A(VEGFA). A total of 453 GO terms were annotated, including 361 terms of biological processes(BP), 33 terms of cellular components(CC), and 59 terms of molecular functions(MF). The terms mainly involved cellular response to lipopolysaccharide, negative regulation of apoptotic process, lipopolysaccharide-mediated signaling pathway, positive regulation of transcription from RNA polyme-rase Ⅱ promoter, response to hypoxia, and inflammatory response. The KEGG enrichment revealed 85 pathways. After diseases and generalized pathways were eliminated, hypoxia-inducible factor-1(HIF-1), tumor necrosis factor(TNF), nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB), Toll-like receptor, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways were screened out. Molecular docking showed that the main active components of Xuebijing Injection had good binding activity with the core targets. The in vitro experiment confirmed that Xuebijing Injection suppressed the HIF-1, TNF, NF-κB, Toll-like receptor, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways, inhibited cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species generation, and down-regulated the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in cells. In conclusion, Xuebijing Injection can regulate apoptosis and response to inflammation and oxidative stress by acting on HIF-1, TNF, NF-κB, Toll-like receptor, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways to treat sepsis-associated ARDS.

Leptospirosis during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case report

ABSTRACT Since SARS-CoV-2 disease (COVID-19) has been labeled as a pandemic, it took the spotlight in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with acute respiratory and systemic symptoms. Leptospirosis is one of the most common zoonoses in the world, yet it is mainly a disease of differential diagnosis for places that do not have it as an endemic. Due to the high burden of COVID-19 on the healthcare field, patients suffering from other infections may have been inadvertently neglected. COVID-19 infection can mimic other infectious diseases and can confuse physicians in their search for a confirmatory diagnosis. Nonetheless, it is very crucial to broaden the differential diagnosis and keep diseases like leptospirosis within the differential diagnosis despite its rarity, especially in patients presenting with unexplained systemic infectious symptoms. This is a unique case of a patient who presented with dyspnea, jaundice and change in urine color who was suspected to be COVID-19 positive. After a detailed investigation, the patient was diagnosed with leptospirosis instead of COVID-19 and was treated with plasmapheresis and antibiotics accordingly.

Sulfasalazine prevents lung injury due to intra-abdominal sepsis in rats: possible role of Nrf2 and angiopoietin-2

This study aimed to investigate the effect of sulfasalazine in preventing and treating intra-abdominal sepsis-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in a rat model. Forty male Wistar albino rats were used. The rats were randomly divided into four equal groups, and sepsis was induced in 30 rats by intraperitoneal administration of a fecal saline solution prepared from rat feces. Group 1: normal control (n=10) [non-surgical], Group 2: fecal intraperitoneal injection (FIP) (n=10) [untreated septic group], Group 3: FIP+saline (placebo) (n=10) [saline administered intraperitoneally], Group 4 (n=10): FIP+sulfasalazine [250 mg/kg per day administered intraperitoneally]. Computed tomography was performed and blood samples were collected for biochemical and blood gas analysis. The lungs were removed for histopathological studies. Statistically significant reductions in interleukin (IL)-6, IL1-β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, malondialdehyde (MDA), and angiopoietin-2 (ANG-2) levels were observed in the sulfasalazine group compared to the FIP+saline group (P<0.001). Nrf2 levels were significantly higher in the sulfasalazine-treated group than in the FIP and FIP+saline groups (P<0.01). Lung tissue scores were significantly reduced in the sulfasalazine group compared to the other sepsis groups. The Hounsfield unit (HU) value was significantly lower in the sulfasalazine group than in the FIP+saline group (P<0.001). PaO2 values were significantly higher in the sulfasalazine-treated group than in the FIP+saline-treated group (P<0.05). Sulfasalazine was shown to be effective in preventing and treating ARDS.

Pathological changes in COVID-19 pneumonia on limited post-mortem sampling of lung: A saga of inflammation and thrombosis

We describe three postmortem open lung-biopsy findings among patients with COVID-19 pneumonia who were on anticoagulant therapy. The spectrum of histopathological findings included lung inflammation in the form of diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) in exudative and organizing phases, with or without pulmonary artery thrombosis in different stages of evolution. This spectrum of inflammation and thrombosis may be indicative of a natural history of severe COVID-19 pneumonia or demonstrative of variation in therapeutics.

The ProtekDuo as Double Lumen Return Cannula in V?VP ECMO Configuration: A First?In?Man Method Description

We present a case of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to COVID?19 who required venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V?V ECMO). Initially, a right ventricular assist device (RVAD), the ProtekDuo with an oxygenator, was placed in an outside heart center and the patient was transferred to us for ECMO management. Due to severe hypoxia, the configuration was later modified, and a 25 Fr femoral drainage cannula was inserted for venous drainage only. The arterial return tubing was spliced and using a Y?connector, arterialized blood was returned through both limbs of the ProtekDuo resulting in a significantly increased oxygenation and flow.

Correlation of Cardiac manifestations In Dengue

Objectives: This study was done to study the prevalence of cardiac manifestations of dengue fever in patients presenting to our hospital and to find out the correlation of cardiac manifestations with the warning signs of dengue infection The study was conducted at Government Villupuram Medical College and Hospital,a tertiary careMethods: hospital in the month of July to December 2021. One hundred consecutive patients aged 15 years or more with positive dengue serology were interviewed and examined. ECG was done for all patients and selected patients underwent echo evaluation and troponin testing. The data was analyzed using statistical significance tests Thirty-three patientsResults: had no warning signs, 59 patients had one warning sign or the other. Eight patients had severe dengue. The minimum pulse rate was 32/ minute. The most common cardiac abnormalities noted were rhythm abnormalities of which the commonest was sinus bradycardia, found in 34 percent. There was statistically significant correlation between cardiac manifestations and all the warning signs except persistent vomiting. Among severe dengue, fluid accumulation causing respiratory distress was found to have a significant correlation with the cardiac manifestations The mostConclusions: common cardiac manifestations noted were transient rhythm abnormalities, of which sinus bradycardia was the commonest. There was no evidence of Myocarditis in any of the patients .There was statistically significant correlation between cardiac manifestations and all the warning signs except persistent vomiting. Among severe dengue, fluid accumulation causing respiratory distress was found to have a significant correlation with the cardiac manifestations.

Recomendaciones para el manejo ventilatorio invasivo con ictus isquémico y COVID-19 / Recommendations for invasive ventilatory management witch ischemic stroke and COVID-19

Introducción: Las principales guías de tratamiento del ictus isquémico en el curso de la infección por COVID-19 no ofrecen sugerencias sobre el empleo de la ventilación mecánica artificial en estos pacientes. Objetivo: Describir elementos de interés sobre el uso de la ventilación mecánica artificial en pacientes con ictus isquémico y COVID-19. Método: Revisión narrativa de la literatura disponible en inglés y español en bases de datos como: PubMed, SciELO y Google académico. Se utilizaron los descriptores "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "neurological manifestations", "acute ischemic stroke", "acute brain injury", "mechanical ventilation", "respiratory failure", "ARDS", "neurocritical care", entre otros. Ante la escaza evidencia publicada los criterios expuestos se realizaron sobre la base de lo divulgado para pacientes con ictus isquémico y ventilación mecánica sin COVID-19. Resultados: El ictus isquémico en el curso de la infección por COVID-19 tiene una alta mortalidad. Se presenta fundamentalmente en la enfermedad más grave, mayormente en pacientes con síndrome de distrés respiratorio agudo. El uso de ventilación mecánica puede ser controversial debido al efecto de la misma sobre el cerebro. Conclusiones: Hasta la fecha no existen publicaciones sobre el manejo ventilatorio en este caso particular. Sobre la base de lo documentado en pacientes ventilados con ictus isquémico o daño cerebral agudo, la ventilación protectora puede ser usada con seguridad, así como el uso de maniobras de la posición prono. Siempre bajo estricta monitorización de la presión intracranealAU),

Introduction: The main guidelines for the treatment of ischemic stroke in the course of COVID-19 infection do not offer suggestions on the use of artificial mechanical ventilation in these patients. Objective: Describe elements of interest on the use of artificial mechanical ventilation in patients with ischemic stroke and COVID-19. Method: Narrative review of the literature available in English and Spanish in databases such as: PubMed, SciELO and Google scholar. The descriptors "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "neurological manifestations", "acute ischemic stroke", "acute brain injury", "mechanical ventilation", "respiratory failure", "ARDS", "neurocritical care", among others, were used. Given the scarce published evidence, the criteria presented were carried out on the basis of what was reported for patients with ischemic stroke and mechanical ventilation without COVID-19. Results: Ischemic stroke in the course of COVID-19 infection has a high mortality rate. It occurs mainly in the most severe stage of the disease, mostly in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. The use of mechanical ventilation can be controversial because of its effect on the brain. Conclusions: To date there are no publications on ventilatory management in this particular case. Based on what has been documented in ventilated patients with ischemic stroke or acute brain damage, protective ventilation can be used safely, as well as the use of prone position maneuvers, always under strict monitoring of intracranial pressure(AU)

Methylene blue treatment for moderate-to-severe cases of acute respiratory syndrome due to COVID-19 infection: clinical outcomes—a prospective study

Background: We studied the real-life experience with Methylene blue administration among the moderate and severe cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome due to Covid-19 infection with the standard of care. Materials and Methods: This study is a prospective, single-center study including 103 hospitalized patients conducted in a tertiary healthcare center from June 2020 to July 2021. The route of administration of Methylene blue was through nebulization (0.5 mL 0.5% solution of Methylene blue + 2.5 mL of distilled water) three times a day as long as the patient was admitted. An ampoule of 10 mL of Methylene blue with 90 mL of potable water through oxygen port was administered as long as they needed oxygen. About 2 mg/kg body weight of Methylene blue in 300 mL of N.S. over 3 h was given once a day for 5 days. Results: Approximately 103 patients were seen with a mean age of 56.49 years. The most prevalent comorbid condition was diabetes. The SpO2 improved by 7.827%. On post-Methylene blue administration, the serum ferritin, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, and D-dimer were reduced in comparison to pre-Methylene blue administration. Also, the average total length of stay was 14 ± 4.20, 13 ± 5.66, and 14 ± 3.50 days in 26.78% of patients in intensive care unit, 17.51% of patients in high dependency unit, and 58.71% of patients in Covid general ward, respectively. About 86.4% of the patients recovered and got discharged post-Methylene blue administration. The all-cause mortality was 13.59%, which could be due to underlying comorbidities and complications of Covid-19 infections. Conclusion: Methylene blue administration accelerated recovery in our patients with moderate and severe Covid-19 disease by controlling the hyperimmune response. The clinical improvement was seen by decreased levels of inflammatory markers, improved oxygen saturation, reduced length of hospital stay, and clinical improvements. Methylene blue administered in nebulization form, through oxygen port, and through intravenous infusion in the dose of 2 mg/kg body weight for 5 days and improved patients’ recovery, so it can be considered as a therapeutic option in moderate and severe Covid-19 disease.

Use of exchange blood transfusion in the management of severe COVID-19 infection in pregnancy: experience from Lagos, Nigeria

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presents with symptoms that may be mild or severe. The individual with the severe form of the disease usually presents with a constellation of respiratory symptoms typical of acute respiratory distress syndrome. In this report, we present our experience of the successful management of an oxygen-dependent pregnant woman with severe COVID-19 infection who had 2 sessions of partial exchange blood transfusion. We discussed the principles that informed this intervention and the need to adopt this novel approach in the care of severe COVID-19 infection.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by quetiapine poisoning: a case report / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Quetiapine is a psychotropic drug. Excessive use of quetiapine may lead to drowsiness, blurred vision, respiratory depression, hypotension and extrapyramidal reactions. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is rare due to overdose of quetiapine. On 14 February 2020, a patients with coma, respiratory arrest and hypotension due to overdose of quetiapine were admitted to our hospital. After receiving mechanical ventilation、plasma adsorption and anti-inflammatory treatment, the patient's consciousness turned clear, the machine was successfully removed and extubated, and the patient's condition was improved and discharged from hospital. We analyzed the clinical data of the patient with quetiapine poisoning, and discussed the clinical symptoms and chest CT characteristics of ARDS caused by quetiapine poisoning, in order to improve the understanding of quetiapine poisoning and improve the success rate of rescue.

Current status and prospect of global development of lung transplantation / 器官移植

During the novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) pandemic from 2020 to 2021, lung transplantation entered a new stage of development worldwide. Globally, more than 70 000 cases of lung transplantation have been reported to the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT). With the development of medical techniques over time, the characteristics of lung transplant donors and recipients and the indications of pediatric lung transplantation recipients have undergone significant changes. Application of lung transplantation in the treatment of COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has also captivated worldwide attention. Along with persistent development of lung transplantation, it will be integrated with more novel techniques to make breakthroughs in the fields of artificial lung and xenotransplantation. In this article, research progresses on the characteristics of lung transplant donors and recipients around the world were reviewed and the development trend was predicted, enabling patients with end-stage lung disease to obtain more benefits from the development of lung transplantation technique.

Pulmonary delivery of siRNA against acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome

The use of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) has been under investigation for the treatment of several unmet medical needs, including acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) wherein siRNA may be implemented to modify the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines at the mRNA level. The properties such as clear anatomy, accessibility, and relatively low enzyme activity make the lung a good target for local siRNA therapy. However, the translation of siRNA is restricted by the inefficient delivery of siRNA therapeutics to the target cells due to the properties of naked siRNA. Thus, this review will focus on the various delivery systems that can be used and the different barriers that need to be surmounted for the development of stable inhalable siRNA formulations for human use before siRNA therapeutics for ALI/ARDS become available in the clinic.

Experimental Study on Respiratory Mechanical Parameters of the Patient with Aute Respiratory Distress Syndrome under High Flow Nasal Cannula / 医用生物力学

Objective T o analyze the influence of high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) on trespiratory mechanical parameters of the patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) based on ventilation experiment, and investigate the therapeutic and side effects of the HFNC. Methods The HFNC ventilation system model based on MATLAB and the physical experiment platform based on active simulated lung ASL5000 were developed to simulate the respiratory movement of ARDS patients with different lung compliance, and a series of the HFNC ventilation experiments were carried out. Both experimental results in MATLAB and physical platform were compared and analyzed. Results The results from the Matlab model-based simulation experiment and physical platform based-physical experiment uniformly showed that increasing the output flow of HFNC would decrease the relevant respiratory mechanical parameters of respiratory flow and tidal volume, but increase the intrapulmonary pressure and the functional residual capacity (FRC). Under the condition of small flow, the output flow from HFNC might be smaller than the inspiratory flow required by the patient, and an inspiratory compensation flow was necessary to make up for the inspiratory flow. Conclusions The necessary reliable compensation flow in inspiration will promote the security of HFNC. Understanding the changes in respiratory mechanical parameters of ARDS patient will be beneficial to pre-evaluate the HFNC, improve the ventilation effect and reduce the ventilation risks.

SARS CoV2 RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values and the risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome in patients with Covid19

Background. SARS-CoV-2 viral loads may aid in the risk stratification of patients with COVID-19. Methods. 486 patients tested positive for SARS Cov2 by real time RT-PCR were included in this study. All the tests were performed on nasopharyngeal swabs during the first week after symptom onset using Sansure Biotech™ SARS Cov2 real time RT-PCR kits. Patient's condition was monitored over a period of one month after the onset of symptoms. Results. The mean Ct value in the group of patients who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS +) was 18.27 (95% CI: 17.43-19.10) while for the ARDS group it was 33.06 (95% CI: 32.77-33.34). Discussion. The Ct values in the group of patients who developed ARDS (ARDS +) were significantly lower than those observed in the ARDS- group. By setting a cut-off value, the determination Ct values (on a qualitative technique) from nasopharyngeal swabs performed during the first week after symptom onset will assist clinicians in risk-stratifying patients. Conclusion. Our data show that the determination of SARS CoV2 RTPCR cycle threshold values from nasopharyngeal swabs performed during the first week after symptom onset may aid in the risk stratification of patients with COVID-19

Delta de CO2 como predictor de lesión renal aguda (LRA) en pacientes con diagnóstico de síndrome de distrés respiratorio del adulto (SDRA) por COVID-19 y choque séptico / CO2 Delta as a predictor of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients diagnosed with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by COVID-19 and septic shock / CO2 delta como preditor de lesão renal aguda (LRA) em pacientes diagnosticados com síndrome do desconforto respiratório do adulto (SDRA) por COVID-19 e choque séptico

Resumen: Introducción: El virus SARS-CoV-2 es capaz de afectar diversos órganos llevándolos a disfunción. Los principales órganos de choque son el pulmón, riñón y sistema cardiovascular. Los pacientes que desarrollan SDRA suelen presentarse con sepsis y choque séptico, siendo más propensos a desarrollar lesión renal aguda (LRA), ya sea por hipovolemia o disfunción miocárdica. El monitoreo invasivo en estos pacientes ha resultado todo un reto, debido a los protocolos sanitarios y a la gran cantidad de pacientes, por lo que la diferencial de CO2 arteriovenosa (DCO2), que es un parámetro fácil de medir, nos puede ayudar a determinar de forma indirecta gasto cardiaco (GC) y perfusión en pacientes con choque. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso del DCO2 como un predictor de LRA en pacientes con choque séptico y COVID-19. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, transversal y retrolectivo en pacientes con choque séptico y SDRA por COVID-19, ingresados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) respiratorios del Centro Médico ABC. Se determinó el DCO2 y su asociación con LRA. Se resumieron los datos usando medidas de tendencia central, t de Student para determinar diferencia de medias y se estimó el riesgo de desarrollar LRA calculando odds ratio (OR). El estudio fue aprobado por el comité de ética de Centro Médico ABC, Ciudad de México (Folio: ABC-21-36). Resultados: Del 13 de marzo al 13 de julio de 2020 se admitieron 527 pacientes (p) con diagnóstico de COVID-19, de los cuales 107 (20.3%) presentaron SRDA con requerimiento de ventilación mecánica invasiva (VMI) y 99 (18.78%) choque séptico. De estos pacientes, 74.4% fueron hombres, 61% desarrolló algún grado de LRA, sobre todo en el grupo con DCO2 menor de 6 mmHg (44 versus 17 p ≤ 0.001) con OR 2.108, IC 95% = 1.23-3.36. No hubo diferencia significativa en las escalas de gravedad. Conclusión: DCO2 mayor de 6 mmHg no fue buen predictor para LRA; sin embargo, un DCO2 menor de 6 mmHg aumentó el riesgo de LRA.

Abstract: Introduction: The SARS-CoV-2 virus is capable of affecting various organs, leading to dysfunction. The main organs of shock are the lung, kidney and cardiovascular system. Patients who develop ARDS usually present with sepsis and septic shock, being more prone to developing acute kidney injury (AKI) either due to hypovolemia or myocardial dysfunction. Invasive monitoring in these patients has been a challenge, due to health protocols and the large number of patients, so the arterial-venous CO2 differential (DCO2), is an easy parameter to measure, can help us determine indirectly cardiac output (CO) and perfusion in patients with shock. Objective: To assess the use of DCO2 as a predictor of AKI in patients with septic shock and COVID-19. Material and methods: An observational, cross-sectional and retrolective study was carried out in patients with septic shock and ARDS due to COVID-19, admitted to the respiratory intensive care unit (ICU) of the ABC Medical Center. DCO2 and its association with LRA were determined. The data was summarized using measures of central tendency, Student's t test to determine the difference in means, and the risk of developing AKI was estimated by calculating the Odds Ratio (OR). The study was approved by the ethics committee of Centro Médico ABC, Mexico City (Folio: ABC-21-36). Results: From March 13 to July 13, 2020, 527 patients (p) diagnosed with COVID-19 were admitted, 107 (20.3%) presented ARDS with the requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and 99 (18.78%) septic shock, 74.4% were men, 61% developed some degree of AKI, especially in the group with DCO2 less than 6mmHg (44 vs 17 p ≤ 0.001) with OR 2.108, 95% CI = 1.23-3.36. There was no significant difference in the severity scales. Conclusion: DCO2 greater than 6 mmHg was not a good predictor for AKI, however, a DCO2 less than 6mmHg increased the risk of AKI.

Resumo: Introdução: O vírus SARS-CoV-2 é capaz de afetar vários órgãos, levando à disfunção. Os principais órgãos de choque são o pulmão, o rim e o sistema cardiovascular. Os pacientes que desenvolvem SDRA geralmente apresentam sepse e choque séptico, e são mais propensos a desenvolver lesão renal aguda (LRA), seja por hipovolemia ou disfunção miocárdica. O monitoramento invasivo desses pacientes tem sido um desafio devido aos protocolos de saúde e ao grande número de pacientes, de modo que o diferencial arteriovenoso de CO2 (DCO2), que é um parâmetro de fácil mensuração, pode nos ajudar a determinar indiretamente o débito cardíaco (DC) e perfusão em pacientes com choque. Objetivo: Avaliar o uso de DCO2 como preditor de LRA em pacientes com choque séptico e COVID-19. Material e métodos: Realizou-se um estudo observacional, transversal e retroletivo em pacientes com choque séptico e SDRA por COVID-19, internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) respiratória do Centro Médico ABC. DCO2 e sua associação com LRA foram determinados. Os dados foram resumidos usando medidas de tendência central, teste t de Student para determinar as diferenças médias e estimou-se o risco de desenvolver LRA calculando o odes ratio (OR). O estudo foi aprovado pelo comitê de ética do Centro Médico ABC, Cidade do México (Folio: ABC-21-36). Resultados: De 13 de março a 13 de julho de 2020, foram admitidos 527 pacientes (p) diagnosticados com COVID-19, dos quais 107 (20.3%) apresentaram SDRA com necessidade de ventilação mecânica invasiva (VMI) e 99 (18.78%) choque séptico. 74.4% eram homens, 61% desenvolveram algum grau de LRA, principalmente no grupo com DCO2 menor que 6 mmHg (44 vs 17 p ≤ 0.001) com OR 2.108, IC 95% = 1.23-3.36. Não houve diferença significativa nas escalas de gravidade. Conclusão: DCO2 maior que 6 mmHg não foi um bom preditor para LRA; entretanto, uma DCO2 menor que 6 mmHg aumentou o risco de LRA.