Cohorte descriptiva de pacientes adultos con hipertensión portal en una institución de tercer nivel en Colombia / Descriptive cohort of adult patients with portal hypertension at a tertiary care institution in Colombia

Introducción. La hipertensión portal (HTP) se define como una elevación anormal de la presión venosa en el sistema portal que lleva al desarrollo de vías colaterales para desviar el flujo sanguíneo de la zona. Dentro de su etiología están las relacionadas con la cirrosis hepática y otras causas denominadas no cirróticas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los principales hallazgos demográficos, clínicos y paraclínicos en un grupo de pacientes con HTP, y determinar el uso de ayudas invasivas y no invasivas, y su disponibilidad para el diagnóstico y seguimiento de los pacientes en los centros que no cuentan con laboratorio de hemodinamia hepática, reflejando la dinámica de múltiples escenarios en Colombia. Metodología. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, retrospectivo, en pacientes atendidos en una institución de tercer nivel del sur de Colombia, entre enero del año 2015 y diciembre del año 2020. Resultados. Se obtuvo una muestra de 61 pacientes en donde la mayoría de casos correspondían a hombres en la séptima década de la vida, procedentes del área urbana. La principal causa de consulta fue el sangrado digestivo (39,3 %), asociado a la presencia de telangiectasias (arañas vasculares) en el 37,2 %, seguido de circulación colateral (31,3 %) e ictericia (19,7 %). En la ecografía abdominal (realizada en el 57,4 % de los pacientes) predominaron la cirrosis (68 %) y la presencia de esplenomegalia (14,2 %), y en lospacientes con Doppler portal (realizado en el 16,4 %) se encontró hígado cirrótico (80 %) y dilatación portal (40 %). Con respecto a los hallazgos en la esofagogastroduodenoscopia predominó la presencia de várices esofágicas y gastritis crónica. Conclusión. El principal motivo de consulta fue el sangrado digestivo, en tanto que la cirrosis fue el antecedente y el hallazgo imagenológico más frecuente, seguido de las várices esofágicas. Se encontró que el uso de paraclínicos, ecografía abdominal, ecografía con Doppler portal y esofagogastroduodenoscopia fueron los más utilizados en el contexto clínico de los pacientes con el diagnóstico de HTP.

Introduction. Portal hypertension (PHT) is defined as an abnormal elevation of venous pressure in the portal system that leads to the development of collateral pathways to divert blood flow from the area. Within its etiology are those related to liver cirrhosis and other so-called non cirrhotic causes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the main demographic, clinical and paraclinical findings in a group of patients with PHT, and to determine the use of invasive and non-invasive aids, and their availability for the diagnosis and follow-up of patients in centers that do not have a hepatic hemodynamics laboratory, reflecting the dynamics of multiple scenarios in Colombia. Methodology. A descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted in patients attended in a third level institution in Southern Colombia, between January 2015 and December 2020. Results. A sample of 61 patients was obtained where the majority of cases corresponded to men in the seventh decade of life, from the urban area. The main cause of consultation was digestive bleeding (39.3%), associated with the presence of telangiectasias (spider veins) in 37.2%, followed by collateral circulation (31.3%) and jaundice (19.7%). In abdominal ultrasound (performed in 57.4% of the patients), cirrhosis (68%) and the presence of splenomegaly (14.2%) predominated, and in patients with portal Doppler (performed in 16.4%), cirrhotic liver (80%) and portal dilatation (40%) were found. With respect to the findings in the esophagogastroduodenoscopy, esophageal varices and chronic gastritis were predominant. Conclusion. The main reason for consultation was gastrointestinal bleeding, while cirrhosis was the most frequent history and imaging finding, followed by esophageal varices. It was found that the use of paraclinics, abdominal ultrasound, ultrasound with portal Doppler and esophagogastroduodenoscopy were the most used in the clinical context of patients diagnosed with PHT.

Asociación de fibrosis hepática mediante elastografía por shear wave 2D y score APRI

Introducción: Las hepatopatías son un problema prevalente a nivel mundial. La biopsia hepática ha sido hasta la fecha el gold standard para valorar el grado de fibrosis, sin embargo, con el advenimiento de nuevos métodos no invasivos, costo-efectivos para el sistema sanitario, cada vez recurrimos menos a esta. En nuestro medio se introdujo recientemente la elastografía por onda cizallamiento con imagen biplanar, lo que implica una curva de aprendizaje por parte de los técnicos. Objetivo: Valorar la asociación de los grados de fibrosis hepática determinado por la elastografía por onda de cizallamiento con imagen biplanar (2D-SWE) y el score APRI en pacientes portadores de enfermedad hepática asistidos en el servicio de hepatología del Hospital Pasteur.Médica 2. Metodología: Se incluyeron los pacientes con enfermedad hepática de cualquier etiología, asistidos entre el 01/10/21 al 31/08/22, mayores de 15 años, de ambos sexos y que han sido valorados con elastografía por onda de cizallamiento con imagen biplanar (2D-SWE) y analítica sanguínea realizado por el equipo médico del servicio mencionado en los últimos 6 meses. Resultados: Se incluyeron 158 pacientes. Se encontró mayor prevalencia de enfermedad hepática en mujeres, con predominio de la etiología de enfermedad por hígado graso no alcohólico (EHGNA) e infección por virus de hepatitis C (VHC). Se evidenció asociación positiva entre la elastografía (2D-SWE) y el score APRI para el diagnóstico o exclusión de enfermedad hepática avanzada, sin diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los dos médicos hepatólogos. Conclusiones: Existe asociación entre la elastografía por SWE y el score APRI para el diagnóstico de enfermedad hepática avanzada en la población general y por etiología.

Introduction: Liver diseases are a prevalent problem worldwide. To date, liver biopsy has been the gold standard for assessing the degree of fibrosis; however, with the advent of new non-invasive, cost-effective methods for the healthcare system, we are resorting to it less and less. Shear wave elastography with biplanar imaging was recently introduced in our setting, which implies a learning curve for technicians. Objective: To assess the association of the degrees of liver fibrosis determined by shear wave elastography with biplanar imaging (2D-SWE) and the APRI score in patients with liver disease treated in the hepatology service of the Pasteur Hospital. Methodology: Patients with liver disease of any etiology, attended between 01/10/21 and 08/31/22, over 15 years of age, of both sexes and who have been evaluated with shear wave elastography with biplanar image were included. (2D-SWE) and blood analysis performed by the medical team of the aforementioned service in the last 6 months. Results: 158 patients were included. A higher prevalence of liver disease was found in women, with a predominance of the etiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. A positive association was evident between elastography (2D-SWE) and the APRI score for the diagnosis or exclusion of advanced liver disease, with no statistically significant difference between the two hepatologists. Conclusions: There is an association between SWE elastography and the APRI score for the diagnosis of advanced liver disease in the general population and by etiology.

Introdução: As doenças hepáticas são um problema prevalente em todo o mundo. Até o momento, a biópsia hepática tem sido o padrão ouro para avaliar o grau de fibrose, porém, com o advento de novos métodos não invasivos e de baixo custo para o sistema de saúde, recorremos cada vez menos a ela. A elastografia por onda de cisalhamento com imagem biplanar foi introduzida recentemente em nosso meio, o que implica uma curva de aprendizado para os técnicos. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação dos graus de fibrose hepática determinados pela elastografia por ondas de cisalhamento com imagem biplanar (2D-SWE) e o escore APRI em pacientes com hepatopatia atendidos no serviço de hepatologia do Hospital Pasteur. Metodologia: Foram incluídos pacientes portadores de doença hepática de qualquer etiologia, atendidos entre 10/01/21 e 31/08/22, maiores de 15 anos, de ambos os sexos e que foram avaliados com elastografia por onda de cisalhamento com imagem biplanar. ( 2D-SWE) e análises sanguíneas realizadas pela equipa médica do referido serviço nos últimos 6 meses. Resultados: foram incluídos 158 pacientes. Foi encontrada maior prevalência de doença hepática em mulheres, com predomínio da etiologia da doença hepática gordurosa não alcoólica (DHGNA) e da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (HCV). Foi evidente uma associação positiva entre a elastografia (2D-SWE) e o escore APRI para o diagnóstico ou exclusão de doença hepática avançada, sem diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os dois hepatologistas. Conclusões: Existe associação entre a elastografia SWE e o escore APRI para o diagnóstico de doença hepática avançada na população geral e por etiologia.

O papel da elastografia na hipertensão portal clinicamente significativa / The role of elastography in clinically significant portal hypertension

ABSTRACT This is a narrative review that aims to discuss the importance of elastographic methods in the evaluation of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) in cirrhotic patients, where the authors propose an algorithm for evaluating these patients. In compensated advanced chronic liver disease, the goal is to prevent the development of CSPH and, in those already with CSPH, prevent the appearance of gastroesophageal varices (GEV) and other complications of portal hypertension. In compensated cirrhosis, the prevalence of GEV is 30-40%, of which 10-20% are at risk of bleeding. Therefore, using non-invasive methods would exempt the patient from the need of an endoscopy. Hepatic Elastography is a non-invasive, safe, reproducible method, available through many techniques: Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE), Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) and Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE). The Baveno VII presented the "rule of 5" for VCTE: liver stiffness measurement (LSM) ≤15 kPa and platelets >150.000/mm3 exclude CSPH, while an LSM ≥25 kPa is highly suggestive of CSPH. Also, the "rule of 4" for SWE has been proposed: patients with ≥17 kPa could be considered as having CSPH. At last, spleen stiffness measurement (SSM) has been proposed as a more specific technique to predict the presence of CSPH. In conclusion, elastography has gained prestige in the non-invasive evaluation of patients with advanced chronic liver disease by allowing prophylactic measures to be taken when suggesting the presence of CSPH.

RESUMO Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa que visa discutir a importância dos métodos elastográficos na avaliação da hipertensão portal clinicamente significativa (HPCS) em pacientes cirróticos, onde os autores propõem um algoritmo para avaliação desses pacientes. Na doença hepática crônica avançada compensada, o objetivo é prevenir o desenvolvimento de HPCS, e naqueles já com HPCS prevenir o aparecimento de varizes gastroesofágicas (VGE) e outras complicações da hipertensão portal. Na cirrose compensada, a prevalência de VGE é de 30-40% e 10-20% são varizes com risco de sangramento, portanto o uso de métodos não invasivos dispensaria o paciente de endoscopia. A elastografia hepática é um método não invasivo, seguro e reprodutível, disponível através de várias técnicas: elastografia transitória (VCTE), onda de cisalhamento (SWE) e elastografia por ressonância magnética. O Baveno VII apresentou a "regra dos 5" para VCTE: medida da rigidez hepática (LSM) ≤15 kPa e plaquetas >150.000/mm3 excluem HPCS enquanto um LSM ≥25 kPa é altamente sugestivo de HPCS. Além disso, foi proposta a "regra dos 4" para SWE: pacientes com ≥17 kPa podem ser considerados como portadores de HPCS. Por fim, a medição da rigidez do baço (SSM) foi proposta como uma técnica mais específica para prever a presença de HPCS. Em conclusão, a elastografia ganhou prestígio na avaliação não invasiva de pacientes com doença hepática crônica avançada, ao permitir a adoção de medidas profiláticas ao sugerir a presença de HPCS.

Valor de la elastografía por patrones de colores en la reestadificación del cáncer de recto / Value of elastography by color patterns in the restaging of rectal cancer i: en

Introducción: La elastografía cualitativa por ecografía endoscópica es una técnica para examinar las propiedades elásticas de los tejidos, que puede distinguir la fibrosis del tumor mediante patrones de colores. Objetivo: Determinar el valor de la elastografía por patrones de colores en la reestadificación del cáncer de recto. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional y descriptivo (serie de casos) de 54 pacientes con cáncer de recto atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, en La Habana, entre septiembre del 2018 y diciembre del 2022, a quienes se les realizó elastografía por ecografía endoscópica para la reevaluación del tumor. Para determinar el valor de dicha técnica se calculó la sensibilidad, la especificidad, los valores predictivos positivo y negativo, las razones de verosimilitud positiva y negativa, así como el índice de Youden. Se estableció la concordancia diagnóstica según el índice kappa y el estudio histológico de la muestra tomada fue el estándar de referencia. Resultados: La concordancia de la elastografía con el resultado anatomopatológico fue buena (κ=0,84). La especificidad y el índice de validez resultaron ser de 91,7 y 94,4 %, respectivamente; mientras que el valor predictivo negativo fue de 84,6 %. Los 16 pacientes con patrón elastográfico mixto (ye3) tenían tumor residual localizado en alguna de las capas de la pared del recto. El índice de Youden alcanzó valores cercanos a 1. Conclusiones: El valor de esta técnica radica en su especificidad diagnóstica y en el valor predictivo negativo al diferenciar la fibrosis del tumor residual en la pared rectal.

Introduction: The qualitative elastography by endoscopic echography is a technique to examine the elastic properties of tissues that can distinguish the fibrosis of the tumor by means of color patterns. Objective: To determine the value of elastography by color patterns in the reestadification of the rectum cancer. Methods: An observational and descriptive study (serial cases) of 54 patients with rectum cancer was carried out, who were assisted in the National Center of Minimum Access Surgery, in Havana, between September, 2018 and December, 2022 to whom elastography by endoscopic echography were carried out for the reevaluation of the tumor. To determine the value of this technique the sensibility, specificity, the predictive positive and negative values, the positive and negative true ratio, as well as the index of Youden were calculated. The diagnostic consistency was established according to the kappa index and the histologic study of the sample was the reference standard. Results: The elastography consistency with the pathologic result was good (ĸ=0.84). The specificity and the index of validity were 91.7 and 94.4%, respectively; while the negative predictive value was 84.6%. The 16 patients with mixed elastographic pattern (ye3) had residual tumor located in some of the layers of the rectum wall. The Youden index reached values close to 1. Conclusions: The value of this technique resides in its diagnostic specificity and negative predictive value when differentiating fibrosis from the residual tumor in the rectal wall.

Asociación entre el índice de masa corporal y el grado de fibrosis hepática medida por elastografía en tiempo real (Supersonic) / Association Between Body Mass Index and Liver Fibrosis Degree Measured Using Real-Time Elastography (Supersonic)

Resumen Introducción: La enfermedad del hígado graso no alcohólico (EHGNA) o hígado graso se caracteriza por una excesiva acumulación de grasa en el hígado, es un desorden metabólico con una prevalencia mundial cercana al 25 %, con un espectro de daño hepático que abarca la esteatosis sin fibrosis, esteatohepatitis con fibrosis variable y la cirrosis o grado máximo de fibrosis, dicha fibrosis determina el pronóstico y los desenlaces de la enfermedad. Objetivo: evaluar la asociación entre el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y el grado de fibrosis hepática en pacientes con diagnóstico de hígado graso en un centro de hepatología en la ciudad de Bogotá, Colombia. Pacientes y métodos: se realiza un estudio de casos y controles de pacientes con diagnóstico de hígado graso, a quienes se les haya realizado elastografía en tiempo real (Supersonic). Se tomó la información de pacientes con diagnóstico de hígado graso que cumplieron criterios de inclusión. Las variables continuas se describieron utilizando medidas de tendencia central y desviación estándar. Las variables categóricas se describieron con números y porcentajes. Se consideró un intervalo de confianza (IC) del 95 % como estadísticamente significativo. Resultados: se incluyeron 361 pacientes, de los cuales el 95,2 % (n = 344 pacientes) presentó algún grado de alteración (12 % fibrosis mínima, 33 % fibrosis moderada, 34 % fibrosis grave y 16 % cirrosis) y solo el 5 % mostró un hígado normal. No tener un adecuado peso se relaciona con fibrosis grave F3, odds ratio (OR): 3,24 (IC: 1,03-10) y cirrosis F4, OR: 2,33 (IC: 2,33-42,99). No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre la alteración del IMC y cualquier grado de fibrosis (OR: 2,74; IC: 0,90-8,40). La presencia de diabetes mellitus (DM) presenta una probabilidad de riesgo de 10 veces de terminar en cirrosis F4, en especial, con mal control de la enfermedad (OR: 5,16; IC: 1,23-30,33). Conclusión: existe una asociación entre el IMC, el perfil glicémico anormal y el desarrollo de fibrosis grave y avanzada. En la práctica clínica, son necesarias una mayor vigilancia y evaluación de los pacientes con hígado graso, con el fin de evitar la progresión de la fibrosis.

Abstract Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or fatty liver, is characterized by an excessive accumulation of fat in the liver, is a metabolic disorder with a worldwide prevalence close to 25%, with a spectrum of liver damage that covers the steatosis without fibrosis, steatohepatitis with variable fibrosis and cirrhosis or maximum degree of fibrosis, this fibrosis determines prognosis and outcomes in the disease. Objective: To evaluate the association between body mass index and the degree of liver fibrosis in patients diagnosed with fatty liver in a hepatology center in the city of Bogotá, Colombia. Patients and methods: A case-control study is carried out with patients diagnosed with fatty liver, who have undergone real-time elastography (Supersonic). Information was taken from patients diagnosed with fatty liver who met the inclusion criteria. Continuous variables were described using measures of central tendency and standard deviation. Categorical variables were described with numbers and percentages. A 95% confidence interval was considered statistically significant. Results: 361 patients were included, of which 95.2% (n=344) presented some degree of alteration (12% minimal fibrosis, 33% moderate fibrosis, 34% severe fibrosis and 16% cirrhosis) and only 5% showed a liver normal. Not having an adequate weight is related to severe fibrosis F3 OR 3.24 (1.03-10) and cirrhosis F4 OR 2.33 (2.33-42.99). No statistically significant differences were found between altered body mass index and any degree of fibrosis OR 2.74 (0.90-8.40). The presence of DM presents a 10-fold risk probability of ending in F4 cirrhosis, especially with poor disease control OR 5.16 (1.23-30.33). Conclusion: There is an association between abnormal body mass index and glycemic profile and the development of severe and advanced fibrosis. It is necessary in clinical practice, greater surveillance and evaluation of patients with fatty liver, in order to prevent the progression of fibrosis.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical and Laboratory Findings and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Assessed by Elastography / Síndrome dos ovários policísticos e síndrome metabólica: Achados clínicos e laboratoriais e doença hepática gordurosa não alcoólica avaliada por elastografia

Abstract Objective To evaluate the association between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS), adding liver assessment through elastography and ultrasound, for correlation with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Metabolic syndrome occurs in~43% of women with PCOS, and NAFLD is the hepatic expression of MetS. Methods One hundred women, 50 with PCOS and 50 controls, matched by age (18- 35 years) and body mass index (BMI) were included, restricted to patients with overweight and obesity grade 1, at the Assis Chateaubrian Maternity School, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Brazil. For the diagnosis of PCOS, we adopted the Rotterdam criteria, and for the diagnosis of MetS, the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP/ATP III). Hepatic elastography and ultrasound were performed to assess liver stiffness and echotexture, respectively. Results The average ages were 29.1 (±5.3) and 30.54 (±4.39) years, for the PCOS and the control group, respectively. Patients with PCOS had a risk 4 times higher of having MetS, odds ratio (95% confidence interval)=4.14, than those in the control group. Women with PCOS had higher average of abdominal circumference (100.9±9.08 cm vs 94.96±6.99 cm) and triglycerides (162±54.63 mg/dL vs 137.54±36.91mg/dL) and lower average of HDL cholesterol (45.66±6.88 mg/dL vs 49.78±7.05 mg/dL), with statistically significant difference. Hepatic steatosis was observed on ultrasound in women with PCOS; however, with no statistically significant difference. There was no change to NAFLD at elastography in any group. Conclusion Women with PCOS had 4-fold higher frequency of MetS andmore hepatic steatosis, with no statistically significant difference. There was no change in liver stiffness between the groups at elastography. The results can be extended only to populations of overweight and obesity grade 1, with PCOS or not. They cannot be generalized to other untested groups.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a associação entre a síndrome do ovário policístico (SOP) e a síndrome metabólica (SM), agregando avaliação do fígado por elastografia e ultrassonografia, para correlação com doença hepática gordurosa não alcoólica (DHGNA). A SM ocorre em cerca de 43% dasmulheres comSOP, e DHGNA é a expressão hepática da SM. Métodos Foramincluídas 100 mulheres, pareadas por idade (18-35 anos) e índice de massa corporal (IMC), 50 comSOP e 50 controles com sobrepeso e obesidade grau I, na Maternidade-Escola Assis Chateaubriand, Brasil. Para o diagnóstico de SOP, adotamos os critérios de Rotterdam e, para o diagnóstico de SM, os critérios do National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP/ATP III). Elastografia hepática e ultrassonografia foram realizadas para avaliar a rigidez e a ecotextura do fígado, respectivamente. Resultados As médias de idade foram de 29,1 (±5,3) e 30,54 (±4,39) anos para os grupos SOP e controle, respectivamente. Pacientes com SOP apresentaram risco 4 vezes maior de SM do que aquelas no grupo controle [[razão de chances (intervalo de confiança de 95%) = 4,14]. Mulheres com SOP tiveram maior média de circunferência abdominal (100,9±9,08cm vs 94,96±6,99 cm) e triglicérides (162±54,63 mg/dL vs 137,54±36,91 mg/dL) e menor média de colesterol HDL (45,66±6,88 mg/dL vs 49,78±7,05mg/dL), com diferença estatisticamente significativa. Esteatose hepática foi observada em ultrassonografias de mulheres com SOP, porém sem diferença estatisticamente significativa. Não houve mudança para DHGNA na elastografia em nenhum dos grupos. Conclusão Mulheres com SOP tiveram frequência quatro vezes maior de SM e mais esteatose hepática, sem diferença estatisticamente significativa. Não houve mudança na rigidez do fígado entre os grupos na elastografia. Os resultados podem ser estendidos apenas a populações com sobrepeso e obesidade grau 1, com SOP ou não. Eles não podem ser generalizados para outros grupos não testados.

Utilidad del índice de fibrosis hepática (IFH) medido durante la ultrasonografía endoscópica en la evaluación del parénquima pancreático / Usefulness of the Liver Fibrosis Index (LFI) Measured during Endoscopic Ultrasonography in Evaluating the Pancreatic Parenchyma

El ultrasonido endoscópico ha cambiado la evaluación de las enfermedades pancreáticas y ha logrado un diagnóstico histopatológico (cuando se asocia con la punción); sin embargo, este procedimiento requiere de entrenamiento, no está libre de complicaciones y alrededor de 25% de los pacientes puede tener falsos negativos. Por esto se ha implementado el uso de la elastografía cuantitativa con el strain ratio, el cual permite diferenciar las masas benignas de las malignas. Existe evidencia creciente, pero aún no conclusiva, dada la heterogeneidad de los resultados (sin consenso para su realización), por lo que es necesario desarrollar otros métodos, que permitan una mayor certeza diagnóstica, como el índice de fibrosis hepática (IFH) medido por ultrasonografía endoscópica, el cual tienen como base la inteligencia artificial, validado para el diagnóstico y el seguimiento de la fibrosis hepática. Nuestro grupo considera que se podría usar de la misma forma para valorar el parénquima pancreático. Objetivo: evaluar si el IFH puede diferenciar tres tipos diferentes de tejidos pancreáticos: páncreas normal, páncreas graso y cáncer de páncreas. Metodología: estudio prospectivo de corte transversal en un solo centro. Se incluyeron 66 pacientes mayores de 18 años, con indicación de ultrasonografía endoscópica. El grupo 1 fue de pacientes con indicación diferente a la enfermedad biliopancreática (55 pacientes). En este grupo se aplicó la escala de clasificación de páncreas graso por ultrasonografía endoscópica (USE), utilizando como referencia la ecogenicidad del bazo (previamente validada); este grupo se subdividió en uno con parénquima pancreático normal y en otro con páncreas graso. En el grupo 2 (11 pacientes) se incluyeron los pacientes llevados para el estudio de lesión sólida pancreática, con diagnóstico citológico positivo para carcinoma de páncreas. Como herramienta de recolección de datos se utilizó un formulario virtual de Google Drive, disponible con dirección acortada: shorturl.at/pIMWX, diligenciado antes y después del procedimiento por fellows de Gastroenterología, previamente entrenados para este fin. El IFH se tomó en el páncreas en tiempo real mediante un software suministrado por el fabricante (Hitachi-Noblus), en un período comprendido entre enero de 2019 y enero 2020. A todos los pacientes se les realizó una ecoendoscopia biliopancreática completa, con un ecoendoscopio Pentax lineal y procesador Hitachi-Noblus; luego se efectuó una elastografía cualitativa y una cuantitativa, la cual incluyó la medición del IFH. Resultados: en total se incluyeron 66 pacientes: 11 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado por citología de cáncer de páncreas y 55 pacientes que se enviaron para ecoendoscopia por evaluación de otras patologías diferentes a la biliopancreática. El rango de edad fue de 23-89, media de 56,75 años. El antecedente más frecuente fue la esteatosis o esteatohepatitis (n = 14) (25,45%). La indicación para la realización del procedimiento más frecuente fue la lesión subepitelial (n = 29) (52,73 %). Los porcentajes de pacientes según los grados de ecogenicidad del páncreas fueron de grado I (n = 29) (52,73 %); grado II (n = 5) (9,09 %); grado III (n = 18) (32,73 %); grado IV (n = 3) (5,45 %). Se tomaron los grados I y II como páncreas normal, y los grado III y IV como páncreas graso. Estos se dividieron en n = 34 pacientes (61,82 %) para páncreas normal y n = 21 (38 %) para páncreas graso; es decir, que de acuerdo con la escala utilizada hay una prevalencia para páncreas graso de 38,18 %. Se realizó el IFH en los tres subgrupos diferentes: los considerados como ecoendoscópicamente normales, los clasificados como páncreas graso y los pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de páncreas confirmado por citología, tomado en el páncreas. El IFH para los tres diferentes grupos fueron, respectivamente, normal: IFH 2,60, rango 0,97-3,47 (IC 95 % 2,17-3,02); páncreas graso: IFH 3,87, rango 2-5,5 (IC 95 % 3,44-4,29); cáncer de páncreas: IFH 6,35, rango 5,8-7,8 (IC 95 % 5,92-6,77). Conclusiones: este es el primer estudio piloto que usa el IFH aplicado al parénquima pancreático, y se sugiere su utilidad para diferenciar, de manera no invasiva, el páncreas normal, el graso y el carcinoma de páncreas. Este hallazgo se debe confirmar en poblaciones más amplias y heterogéneas, con el fin de ser validado.

Abstract Endoscopic ultrasound has changed the evaluation of pancreatic diseases and has achieved a histopathological diagnosis (when associated with a puncture); however, this procedure requires training, is not free of complications, and around 25 % of patients may have false negatives. Therefore, quantitative elastography with the strain ratio has been implemented to differentiate benign masses from malignant ones. There is growing but not yet conclusive evidence, given the heterogeneity of the results (without consensus on its performance). It is necessary to develop other methods that allow for greater diagnostic certainty, such as the liver fibrosis index (LFI) measured by endoscopic ultrasonography. This method is based on artificial intelligence and validated for diagnosing and monitoring liver fibrosis. Our group considers that it could also be used to assess the pancreatic parenchyma. Aim: To evaluate whether the LFI can differentiate three types of pancreatic tissues: normal pancreas, fatty pancreas, and pancreatic cancer. Materials and methods: Prospective cross-sectional single-center study. We included sixty-six patients over 18 years of age with an indication for endoscopic ultrasonography. Group 1 consisted of patients with an indication other than the biliopancreatic disease (55 patients). The endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) fatty pancreas classification scale was applied to this group, taking the echogenicity of the spleen (previously validated) as a reference; this group was subdivided into normal pancreatic parenchyma and fatty pancreas. Group 2 (11 patients) included those examined for solid pancreatic lesions with a positive cytological diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma. We used a Google Form as a data collection tool, available with a shortened address (shorturl.at/pIMWX). It was filled out before and after the procedure by Gastroenterology fellows, previously trained for this purpose. The LFI was measured in the pancreas in real-time using software supplied by the manufacturer (Hitachi Noblus) between January 2019 and January 2020. All patients underwent a complete biliopancreatic echoendoscopy, with a linear Pentax echoendoscope and Hitachi Noblus processor. Then, qualitative and quantitative elastography was performed, including LFI measurement. Results: We included a total of 66 patients: 11 with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer confirmed by cytology and 55 sent for ultrasound endoscopy due to pathologies other than the biliopancreatic disease. The age range was 23-89, with a mean of 56.75 years. The most frequent history was steatosis or steatohepatitis (n = 14) (25.45 %). The most frequent indication for performing the procedure was subepithelial lesion (n = 29) (52.73 %). The percentages of patients according to pancreatic echogenicity were Grade I (n = 29) (52.73 %); Grade II (n = 5) (9.09 %); Grade III (n = 18) (32.73 %); Grade IV (n = 3) (5.45 %). Grades I and II were taken as a normal pancreas and Grades III and IV as a fatty pancreas, divided into n = 34 patients (61.82 %) for a normal pancreas and n = 21 (38 %) for a fatty pancreas. According to the scale used, there is a fatty pancreas prevalence of 38.18 %. The LFI was measured in three subgroups: those considered endoscopically normal, those classified as fatty pancreas, and patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer confirmed by cytology taken from the pancreas. The LFI for these groups were, respectively, normal pancreas: LFI 2.60, range 0.97-3.47 (95 % CI 2.17-3.02); fatty pancreas: LFI 3.87, range 2-5.5 (95 % CI 3.44-4.29); pancreatic cancer: LFI 6.35, range 5.8-7.8 (95 % CI 5.92-6.77). Conclusions: This is the first pilot study that applies the LFI to the pancreatic parenchyma. It is useful in differentiating a normal pancreas, a fatty pancreas, and pancreatic carcinoma non-invasively. This finding must be validated in larger and more heterogeneous populations.

Elastografia por ressonância magnética para avaliação de doença hepática gordurosa não alcoólica / Magnetic resonance elastography for evaluation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Introdução: A doença hepática gordurosa não alcoólica (DHGNA) é uma das causas mais comuns de hepatopatia. Devido ao grande risco de progressão para cronicidade, seu rastreamento se faz necessário. A Elastografia por Ressônancia Magnética (MRE) foi estabelecida em diversos estudos como uma técnica acurada para o diagnóstico de fibrose. Objetivos: Descrever a prevalência de esteatose e de fibrose hepática em pacientes com DHGNA submetidos à MRE; estimar o grau de fibrose, correlacionando com a escala METAVIR, e avaliar a fração de gordura por densidade de prótons (PDFF) e os fatores clínicos associados à esteatose e fibrose. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado mediante revisão de imagens de MRE, entre janeiro de 2017 e março de 2019, em um hospital da região sul do Brasil. Resultados: Dos 298 pacientes incluídos, a maioria dos pacientes apresentava esteatose leve (41,6%, n=124) ou ausente (30,9%, n=92), enquanto 15,1% (n=45) apresentava esteatose moderada e 12,4% (n=37), acentuada. A maioria dos pacientes (65,8%, n=181) apresentava rigidez hepática dentro da normalidade, 11,6% (n=32) inflamação crônica, 7,6% (n=21) fibrose estágio 1-2, 3,6% (n=10) fibrose estágio 2-3, 4,7% (n=13) fibrose estágio 3-4 e 6,5% (n=18) fibrose estágio 4 ou cirrose. Discussão: Os resultados encontrados nesta amostra reforçam os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de DHGNA previamente avaliados. Uma combinação de estratégias não invasivas, incluindo a MRE, poderá selecionar os pacientes com maior probabilidade de agravos. Conclusão: Nesse estudo, a maioria dos pacientes apresentou a forma leve ou ausência de esteatose e rigidez hepática dentro da normalidade. A MRE tem se mostrado uma técnica altamente acurada, não invasiva para estadiamento de fibrose hepática em pacientes com DHGNA, sem influência significativa da idade, sexo, adiposidade e grau de inflamação hepática.

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of liver disease. Due to the high risk of progression to chronicity, its tracking is necessary. Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) has been established in several studies as an accurate technique for diagnosing fibrosis. Objectives: To describe the prevalence of steatosis and liver fibrosis in NAFLD patients undergoing MRE; estimate the degree of fibrosis, correlating with the METAVIR scale, and assess the proton density fat-fraction (PDFF). Methods: A cross-sectional study, performed by reviewing MRE images, between January 2017 and March 2019, in a hospital in southern Brazil. Results: Of the 298 patients included, most patients had mild (41.6%, n=124) or absent (30.9%, n=92) steatosis, while 15.1% (n=45) had moderate and 12.4% (n=37) marked steatosis. Most patients (65.8%, n=181) had liver stiffness within the normal range, 11.6% (n=32) chronic inflammation, 7.6% (n=21) stage 1-2 fibrosis, 3.6% (n=10) stage 2-3 fibrosis, 4.7% (n=13) stage 3-4 fibrosis, and 6.5% (n=18) stage 4 fibrosis or cirrhosis. Discussion: The results found in this sample reinforce the risk factors for the development of NAFLD previously evaluated. A combination of non-invasive strategies, including MRE, may select the patients with the greatest likelihood of harm. Conclusions: MRE has been shown to be a highly accurate, non-invasive technique for staging liver fibrosis in NAFLD patients, with no significant influence of age, sex, adiposity, and degree of liver inflammation.

Utilidad de la elastografía cuantitativa por ultrasonografía endoscópica (USE) para el diagnóstico de las lesiones sólidas del páncreas (LSP) / Utility of quantitative elastography by Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) to diagnose solid pancreatic lesions (SPL)

Resumen Introducción: la punción con aguja fina guiada por ultrasonografía endoscópica (PAF-USE) permite un diagnóstico de las lesiones sólidas del páncreas (LSP) con una sensibilidad de alrededor del 85 % en la literatura mundial y aún más baja en nuestro medio, por lo cual se requiere explorar nuevos accesorios (agujas) o técnicas tales como la elastografía, que mejoren esta sensibilidad. Esta última permite la cuantificación de la rigidez del tejido con altos grados de precisión y desde 2001 se ha aplicado al diagnóstico de tumores sólidos de diversos órganos como mama y tiroides, músculo, entre otros; y desde 2006 se ha empleado para las LSP y ha demostrado su utilidad como complemento a las herramientas diagnósticas disponibles, ya que mejora la precisión de la biopsia por PAF-USE al seleccionar el área más sospechosa para ser puncionada y también guía el manejo clínico cuando la PAF-USE es negativa o no concluyente. Objetivo: evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de la elastografía cuantitativa de strain ratio (SR) obtenida por ecoendoscopia en las LSP teniendo como patrón de oro el diagnóstico citopatológico. Métodos: 71 pacientes (rango de edad: 35-89, media: 62,2 años); de estos, 35 mujeres fueron sometidas a USE para la evaluación de LSP. El diseño del estudio fue de corte transversal, prospectivo y de un solo centro. La USE se realizó con un ecoendoscopio Pentax lineal y un procesador Hitachi-Noblus. La lesión (área A) y un área de referencia B se seleccionaron para calcular la relación de deformación (B/A, SR expresada en %). Se tomó como punto de corte SR para definir las lesiones malignas (duras) SR > 22 teniendo en cuenta la evidencia actualmente disponible; estos resultados se compararon con la citopatología de las muestras obtenidas por punción guiada por USE. Después de la aplicación de criterios de exclusión, se realiza el análisis estadístico de 56 pacientes y se considera el valor p < 0,05. Se calculó la sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo (VPP), valor predictivo negativo (VPN) y precisión diagnóstica comparando la elastografía SR con los diagnósticos finales por citopatología. Resultados: la elastografía cuantitativa SR (%) permite detectar las LSP malignas con sensibilidad del 94,6 % (intervalo de confianza [IC] del 95 %: 85,4 %-98,2 %), especificidad del 89,3 % (IC 95 %: 78,5 %-95,0 %), VPP del 89,8 % (IC 95 %: 79,5 %-95,3 %); VPN del 94,3 % (IC 95 %: 84,6 %-98,1 %) y exactitud del 92,0 % (IC 95 %: 85,4 %-95,7 %). Conclusión: la elastografía cuantitativa SR por USE en LSP es un complemento útil que mejora la precisión de la PAF-USE al seleccionar el área más sospechosa para ser puncionada y guiar el manejo clínico cuando la PAF-USE es negativa o no concluyente, ya que tiene una alta sensibilidad y especificad en el diagnóstico de las LSP malignas.

Abstract Introduction: Endoscopic ultrasonography with fine-needle aspiration allows performing a diagnosis of solid pancreatic lesions with an approximate 85% sensitivity, as referenced in specialized literature, and even lower sensitivity as per local research. To yield better sensitivity and to improve the results, it is required to examine new elements (needles) and techniques like elastography. Elastography helps in the quantification of tissue stiffness with a high level of accuracy. Since 2001, elastography has been applied in diagnosing solid forms of cancer (tumors) that affect organs like breasts, the thyroid, and some muscles. This method which has been used to diagnose solid pancreatic lesions (SPL) since 2006 has proved to be useful as a complementary method to the existing diagnostic techniques. It improves the accuracy of the endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (EUS-FNA) by selecting the more suspicious area to be punctured, and it also guides the clinical treatment after getting a negative EUS-FNA or a non-conclusive result. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostical performance of the strain ratio (SR) quantitative elastography by ecoendoscopy in solid pancreatic lesions, considering the cytopathologic diagnostic as the gold standard. Methods: 71 patients (age range: 35-89 years old, mean: 62.2 years old); out of those 71 patients, The EUS to diagnose SPL, was performed on 35 women. This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study design. The EUS was performed with a Pentax linear endoscope and a Hitachi-Noblus ultrasound. The lesion (area A) and a reference area B were selected to calculate the deformation ratio (B/A, SR expressed as a percentage). SR > 22 was selected as a cut-off point to determine the malignant lesions (solid lesions), considering the evidence currently available. The results were compared with their cytopathology interpretation once that the EUS was performed. After the exclusion criteria was applied, a statistical analysis of 56 patients was performed, considering p < 0,05. The sensitivity, the specificity, the positive predictive value (PPV), the negative predictive value (NPV) and the diagnostic accuracy, were calculated, comparing the elastography SR with the final diagnostics with the cytopathology interpretation. Results: Quantitative elastography SR (%) allows to detect the malignant SPL with sensitivity 94.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 85.4%-98.2%), specificity of 89.3% (CI 95%: 78,5 %-95,0 %), PPV of 89.8% (CI 95 %: 79,5 %-95,3 %); NPV of 94.3% (IC 95 %: 84,6 %-98,1 %) and an accuracy of 92.0% (CI 95 %: 85,4 %-95,7 %). Conclusion: SR quantitative elastography by Endoscopic Ultrasound, EUS is a suitable complement method that improves the EUS-FNA accuracy, by selecting the most suspicious area to be punctured, and it also guides clinical treatment after getting a negative EUS-FNA or a non-conclusive result, due to its high sensitivity and specificity levels to diagnose malignant SPL.

Evaluación de la fibrogénesis hepática en pacientes con esteatohepatitis no alcohólica tratados con propóleos rojo oral cubano / Evaluation of hepatic fibrogenesis in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis treated with cuban oral red propolis

Introducción: La enfermedad por depósito graso no alcohólica constituye una pandemia del mundo contemporáneo. Su espectro silente atraviesa estadios de cronicidad y puede llegar a la cirrosis hepática y sobre esta pudiera desarrollarse un hepatocarcinoma. No existen tratamientos y solo se puede actuar sobre los factores de riesgo. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto citohepatoprotector y antifibrótico del propóleos rojo cubano oral en pacientes con esteatohepatitis no alcohólica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio longitudinal prospectivo en pacientes seleccionados de las consultas de Gastroenterología, Endocrinología y Medicina Interna del Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras durante el periodo de abril 2017 a abril 2018. El universo de estudio fue de 120 pacientes con diagnóstico imagenológico de hígado graso. La muestra quedó conformada por 70 pacientes con diagnóstico de hígado graso, y que cumplieron criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Las pruebas estadísticas aplicadas fueron análisis de frecuencia y porcentaje para las variables demográficas. La prueba T para las muestras relacionadas evaluó el comportamiento enzimático al inicio y al final del tratamiento y los cambios elastográficos fueron analizados mediante test de Kappa y porcentaje. Resultados: Las variables bioquímicas estudiadas mostraron una disminución estadísticamente significativa al final del tratamiento. Los cambios elastográficos al final del estudio evidenciaron la efectividad del tratamiento, en el cual el 91,4 por ciento de los pacientes evolucionaron hacia el menor grado de fibrosis. Conclusiones: El propóleos rojo cubano demostró ser un apifármaco con acción citohepatoprotectora y antifibrótica de valor terapéutico(AU)

Introduction: Nonalcoholic fat deposition disease is a pandemic in the contemporary world. Its silent spectrum goes through stages of chronicity and it can reach liver cirrhosis and on this a hepatic carcinoma could develop. There are no treatments and medical handling can act on only risk factors. Objective: To evaluate cytohepatoprotective and antifibrotic effect of oral Cuban red propolis in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was carried out in selected patients from the Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Internal Medicine consultations at Hermanos Ameijeiras Clinical Surgical Hospital from April 2017 to April 2018. The study universe was 120 patients with imaging diagnosis of fatty liver. The sample consisted of 70 patients with fatty liver diagnosis, who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Frequency and percentage analysis for the demographic variables were the statistical tests applied. The T test for the related samples evaluated the enzymatic behavior at the beginning and at the end of the treatment and the elastography changes were analyzed using Kappa and percentage tests. Results: The biochemical variables studied showed statistically significant decrease at the end of the treatment, which evidenced the effectiveness of the treatment. 91.4 percent of the patients progressed to a lower degree of fibrosis. Conclusions: Cuban red propolis proved to be a therapeutic drug with cytohepathoprotective and antifibrotic action(AU)

Elastografía cualitativa por ultrasonido endoscópico en la reestadificación del tumor de recto irradiado / Qualitative elastography by endoscopic ultrasound in the restaging of the irradiated rectal tumor

Introducción: En la reestadificación del paciente con tumor de recto irradiado, la elastografía cualitativa por ultrasonido endoscópico puede identificar la fibrosis y diferenciarla del tumor residual. Objetivo: Determinar la utilidad de la elastografía cualitativa por ultrasonido endoscópico en la reestadificación del tumor de recto irradiado. Métodos: Estudio observacional y descriptivo (serie de casos), en 31 pacientes con tumor de recto irradiado, reestadificados mediante elastografía cualitativa por ultrasonido endoscópico. Para determinar la utilidad de la elastografía se calcularon: sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo, índice de Youden y concordancia diagnóstica según índice kappa, de la elastografía y del ultrasonido endoscópico por separado, estos resultados fueron comparados en ambas pruebas diagnósticas. El estudio histológico de la pieza quirúrgica fue el estándar de referencia. Resultados: El índice de concordancia del ultrasonido endoscópico (77,4 por ciento), por elastografía (87,1 por ciento). El ultrasonido endoscópico mostró mayor sensibilidad y valor predictivo negativo que la elastografía, por lo que la posibilidad de descartar presencia de tumor con un resultado negativo fue superior. La elastografía tuvo mayor especificidad (77,78 por ciento) y valor predictivo positivo (90,91 por ciento) que el ultrasonido endoscópico (22,22 y 75,86 por ciento); fue más útil para confirmar el diagnóstico de tumor. Conclusiones: La utilidad de la elastografía cualitativa asociada al ultrasonido endoscópico, en la reestadificación del tumor de recto irradiado, consiste en incrementar la especificidad del estudio y discernir mejor entre la fibrosis y el tumor residual(AU)

Introduction: Qualitative endoscopic ultrasound elastography can identify fibrosis and differentiate it from residual tumor in the re-staging of patients with irradiated rectal tumors. Objective: To determine the usefulness of qualitative endoscopic ultrasound elastography in the re-staging of the irradiated rectal tumor. Methods: An observational and descriptive study (series of cases) was carried out in 31 patients with irradiated rectal tumor, restaged by means of Qualitative elastography by endoscopic ultrasound. To determine the usefulness of elastography, the following were calculated: sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, Youden index and diagnostic agreement according to kappa, elastography and endoscopic ultrasound separately; these results were compared in both diagnostic tests. The histological study of the surgical specimen was the reference standard. Results: The concordance index of endoscopic ultrasound (77.4 percent), that obtained by elastography (87.1 percent). Endoscopic ultrasound showed greater sensitivity and negative predictive value than elastography, so the possibility of ruling out the presence of a tumor with a negative result was higher. Elastography had greater specificity (77.78 percent) and positive predictive value (90.91 percent) than endoscopic ultrasound (22.22 and 75.86 percent); it was most helpful in confirming the tumor diagnosis. Conclusions: The usefulness of qualitative elastography associated with endoscopic ultrasound, in the re-staging of the irradiated rectal tumor, consists in increasing the specificity of the study, thus allowing a better discernment between fibrosis and residual tumor(AU)

Can the unnecessary operations for suspected thyroid nodules be avoided by the combined use of the strain ratio and elastography score? / As cirurgias desnecessárias para nódulos tireoidianos suspeitos podem ser evitadas pelo uso combinado da razão de compressão e do escore da elastografia?

Abstract Introduction Only 5%-15% of thyroid surgical specimens are reported as malignant. Most of the operations are performed due to suspicion of malignancy as a result of fine needle aspiration biopsy but invasiveness, non-diagnostic results and potential repeat biopsies are disadvantages of fine needle aspiration biopsy. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of simultaneously using both the strain ratio and elasticity score in the differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules, as well as to assess the compatibility of these two methods. Methods A total of 144 nodules were included in the study. The final histopathologic diagnosis was used as the reference standard. The area under the curve sensitivity, specificity, and cut-off values of the strain ratio and elasticity score were determined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The compatibility and comparison of strain ratio and elasticity score were also performed. Results Twenty eight nodules (19.4%) were malignant. The strain ratio and elasticity score results were found to be significantly successful in predicting thyroid malignancy (p < 0.001 for both). Moreover, the area under the curve for the strain ratio and elasticity score were found to be 0.944 and 0.960, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of the elasticity score was found to be superior to that of the strain ratio, but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.456). When the compatibility of the strain ratio and elasticity score was examined, the two evaluations were revealed to be statistically consistent with each other (Kappa = 0.767; p < 0.001). When the strain ratio and the elasticity score were used together, the specificity of capturing the correct diagnosis increased from 84.5% to 93.1%. Conclusion When the strain ratio an elasticity score were used together for the differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules, more accurate results were obtained. Thus, combining both methods may be a promising alternative to fine needle aspiration biopsy in order to prevent unnecessary surgical interventions for suspected thyroid nodules.

Resumo Introdução Apenas 5% a 15% das amostras cirúrgicas de tireoide são relatadas como malignas. A maioria das cirurgias é feita devido à suspeita de lesão maligna como resultado da biópsia por punção aspirativa com agulha fina. Entretanto, invasividade, resultados não diagnósticos e biópsias repetidas são desvantagens desse procedimento. Objetivo Investigar a eficácia do uso simultâneo da razão de compressão e do escore de elasticidade no diagnóstico diferencial de nódulos tireoidianos, bem como avaliar a compatibilidade desses dois métodos. Método Foram incluídos no estudo 144 nódulos. O diagnóstico histopatológico final foi usado como padrão de referência. A área sob a curva sensibilidade, especificidade e valores de corte da razão de compressão e do escore de elasticidade foram determinados com a análise da curva Receiver Operating Characteristic. A compatibilidade e comparação da razão de compressão e do escore de elasticidade também foram feitas. Resultados Eram malignos 28 nódulos (19,4%). Os resultados da razão de compressão e do escore de elasticidade foram significantemente bem-sucedidos em prever a lesão maligna de nódulos da tireoide (p < 0,001 para ambos). Além disso, as áreas sob a curva para a razão de compressão e o escore de elasticidade foram de 0,944 e 0,960, respectivamente. A acurácia diagnóstica escore de elasticidade foi superior à da razão de compressão, mas essa diferença não foi estatisticamente significante (p = 0,456). Quando a compatibilidade da razão de compressão e do escore de elasticidade foi examinada, as duas avaliações mostraram-se estatisticamente consistentes (Kappa = 0,767; p < 0,001). Quando a razão de compressão e o escore de elasticidade foram usados em conjunto, a especificidade de captar o diagnóstico correto aumentou de 84,5% para 93,1%. Conclusão Quando a razão de compressão e o escore de elasticidade foram usados juntos para o diagnóstico diferencial de nódulos tireoidianos, resultados mais precisos foram obtidos. Assim, o uso combinado dos dois métodos pode ser uma opção promissora à biópsia por punção aspirativa com agulha fina e evitar intervenções cirúrgicas desnecessárias para nódulos tireoidianos suspeitos.

Elastografía en tiempo real (Supersonic), experiencia de un centro en Bogotá / Real-time elastography (Supersonic), experience of a medical center in Bogotá

Resumen Introducción: la elastografía en tiempo real, 2D-SWE (Supersonic), es una prueba no invasiva que se utiliza para determinar la elasticidad del hígado y, de esa forma, calcular el grado de fibrosis hepática. En Colombia, la prueba se introdujo en 2016 y no existen hasta el momento estudios del comportamiento de la prueba en todos los pacientes hepáticos, solo se han publicado en pacientes sanos y cirróticos. Objetivo: analizar la experiencia de la aplicación de la elastografía en tiempo real, en sujetos atendidos en el centro de enfermedades hepáticas y digestivas de Bogotá, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de una cohorte de sujetos atendidos entre marzo de 2016 y julio de 2017. Se realizó una historia clínica completa y una prueba de elastografía en tiempo real (Supersonic). Resultados: se incluyeron 654 sujetos, con una mediana de edad de 55 años (rango intercuartílico [RIC]: 45-64). La mediana de valores de fibrosis expresada en kilopascales (kPs) fue de 8,3, con un promedio de 5 mediciones. Se observó una diferencia significativa en el grado de fibrosis entre los grupos de edad y en relación con el diagnóstico final, donde se evidenció una mayor fibrosis en el grupo de enfermedades colestásicas (autoinmune, colangitis biliar primaria [CBP] y superposición autoinmune-CBP). La tasa global de fracaso fue menor al 1%. Conclusiones: es la primera descripción del comportamiento de la prueba a nivel nacional. Los valores de rigidez hepática observados en los diferentes estadios demuestran la utilidad de la prueba para la determinación de la fibrosis hepática en pacientes con diferentes patologías.

Abstract Introduction: Real-time two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) (Supersonic Imagine SA), is a non-invasive test used to determine liver elasticity and calculate the degree of liver fibrosis. In Colombia, this test was introduced in 2016 and, to date, no study has tested its behavior in all liver patients, only in healthy and cirrhotic patients. Objective: To analyze the experience of real-time elastography implementation in subjects treated at the Centro de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas in Bogotá, Colombia. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study of a cohort of subjects treated between March 2016 and July 2017. A complete medical report and a real-time elastography (Supersonic) test were performed. Results: 654 subjects were included, with a median age of 55 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 45-64). The median fibrosis values expressed in kilopascals (kPs) were 8.3, with an average of 5 measurements. There was a significant difference in the degree of fibrosis between the age groups and in relation to the final diagnosis, where there was a greater fibrosis in the cholestatic disease group (autoimmune, primary biliary cholangitis [PBC], and overlap). The overall failure rate was less than 1%. Conclusions: This is the first description of this test behavior in the country. Hepatic stiffness values observed in the different stages demonstrate the usefulness of the test to establish the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with multiple diseases.

Accuracy of ARFI elastography in the differentiation of cataract stages in dogs / Acurácia da elastografia ARFI na diferenciação dos estágios da catarata em cães

Objective was to evaluate the accuracy of elastography in the differentiation between normal and cataract lenses One hundred forty-five eyes of 98 dogs were divided into groups according to cataract stage. Forty-twoeyes were submitted to phacoemulsification. Biometric parameters, echogenicity and echotexture patterns of the anterior, posterior and vitreous chambers, lens and retina-choroid-sclera complexes were evaluated by ocular ultrasound in modes A and B. Deformability, and color (blue color = indicated less rigid structures, color red = more rigid structures) of the lenses were evaluated by the elastogram. The shear wave velocity (SWV; m/s) was calculated in three regions of the lens, both in the cortex and in the nucleus. The SWV of nucleus was statistically different between the normal lenses and with cataracts, and between the stages of cataract (P<0.001). Healthy lenses and incipient cataracts had a more rigid nucleus. Mature cataracts presented lowest nuclear rigidity (P<0.001). On cortical region the SWV was significantly higher (P<0.01) in intumescent and incipient cataracts. SWV less than 2.67m/s indicates cataract with a sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 94%. Values lower than 2.23m/s suggest mature cataract, with sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 76%. SWV greater than 2.66 m/s are associated with normal lenses or incipient cataract, presenting sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 84%. Qualitative method allowed differentiation between healthy and affected lenses and the classification of evolutionary stages. There was a correlation between the degree of stiffness of lens in cortical and nuclear regions (p=00165, r=0.37) and between the balanced saline solution quantitative and surgical time (P<0.01, r=0.73). Degree of stiffness of lens did not correlate with parameters of phacoemulsification. Elastographic proved feasible for evaluating the lens of dogs, characterizing the types of cataracts, and demonstrating increased stiffness of the diseased lenses.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar a precisão da elastografia na diferenciação entre lentes normais e de catarata. Cento e quarenta e cinco olhos de 98 cães foram divididos em grupos de acordo com o estágio de maturação da catarata. Quarenta e dois olhos foram submetidos à facoemulsificação. Parâmetros biométricos, ecogenicidade e padrões de ecotextura das câmaras anterior, posterior e vítrea, lente e complexos retina-coróide-esclera foram avaliados por ultrassonografia ocular nos modos A e B. A deformabilidade e a coloração (cor azul = indicou estruturas menos rígidas, cor vermelha = estruturas mais rígidas) das lentes foram avaliadas pelo elastograma. A velocidade da onda de cisalhamento (SWV; m/s) foi calculada em três regiões da lente, tanto no córtex quanto no núcleo. A SWV do núcleo foi estatisticamente diferente entre as lentes normais e com catarata e entre os estágios da catarata (P<0,001). Lentes saudáveis e cataratas incipientes tinham um núcleo mais rígido. Cataratas maduras apresentaram menor rigidez nuclear (P<0,001). Na região cortical, a SWV foi significativamente maior (P<0,01) nas cataratas intumescentes e incipientes. Uma SWV menor que 2,67m/s indica catarata com sensibilidade de 72% e especificidade de 94%. Valores inferiores a 2,23m/s sugerem catarata madura, com sensibilidade de 71% e especificidade de 76%. Uma SWV superior a 2,66m/s está associada à catarata normal ou incipiente, apresentando sensibilidade de 94% e especificidade de 84%. O método qualitativo permitiu a diferenciação entre lentes normais de olhos saudáveis e afetadas e a classificação dos estágios evolutivos. A elastografia se mostrara uma ferramenta viável para avaliar as lentes de cães, caracterizando os tipos de catarata e demonstrando maior rigidez das lentes doentes.(AU)

Applicability of B-mode ultrasonography, ARFI elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the evaluation of chronic kidney disease in dogs / Aplicabilidade da ultrassonografia modo-B, elastografia ARFI e ultrassonografia contrastada na avaliação da doença renal crônica em cães

The objective of this study was to verify the applicability of B-mode ultrasonography, ARFI elastography and CEUS in the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease and its Stages in dogs. 24 healthy dogs and 28 with CKD were included. In B-mode, the echogenicity, echotexture and cortico-medullary ratio of the kidneys were verified. By elastography, the shear-wave velocity of the cortical (SWVcort) and medullary (SWVmed) regions were determined and tissue deformity was evaluated. Wash-in, wash-out and peak enhancement (TPic) of the contrast in the renal parenchyma were calculated and homogeneity, presence of filling gaps and distinction of filling phases were evaluated by CEUS. Changes in echogenicity, echotexture and cortico-medullary ratio were observed only in sick patients. There was an increase in SWVcort in CKD, with a cutoff point >2.91m/s. Healthy kidneys were non-deformable and 25% had changes in gray scales. There was an increase in wash-in and TPic, changes in filling characteristics, filling failures and difficulty in distinguishing between the Stages in CEUS in CKD. It was found that dogs with CKD 2, 3 and 4 had greater SWVcort and wash-in values than CKD 1. Elastographic and CEUS changes were observed in dogs with CKD, demonstrating the applicability of ultrasonographic techniques in their diagnosis.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a aplicabilidade da ultrassonografia modo-B, elastografia ARFI e CEUS no diagnóstico da doença renal crônica e seus estágios em cães. Foram incluídos 24 cães saudáveis e 28 com DRC. Pelo modo-B, verificou-se ecogenicidade, ecotextura e relação córtico-medular dos rins. Pela elastografia, foram determinadas as velocidades de cisalhamento das regiões cortical (SWVcort) e medular (SWVmed) e foi avaliada a deformidade tecidual. Calculou-se os temos de wash-in, wash-out e pico de intensidade (TPic) do parênquima renal e avaliou-se homogeneidade, presença de falhas e distinção das fases de preenchimento por contraste por meio de CEUS. Alterações em ecogenicidade, ecotextura e relação córtico-medular foram observadas somente em pacientes doentes. Houve aumento da SWVcort na DRC, com ponto de corte >2.91m/s. Rins saudáveis foram não-deformáveis e 25% apresentou alterações nas escalas de cinza. Houve aumento do wash-in e TPic, alterações nas características de preenchimento, falhas e dificuldade para distinguir as fases de preenchimento do contraste nos rins com DRC. Verificou-se que cães com DRC graus 2, 3 e 4 tiveram valores de SWVcort e wash-in maiores que cães com DRC grau 1. Foram obsrervadas alterações elastográfica e de CEUS em cães com DRC, demonstrando a aplicabilidade destas técnicas ultrassonográficas no seu diagnóstico.(AU)

Applicability of B-mode ultrasonography, ARFI elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the evaluation of chronic kidney disease in dogs

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to verify the applicability of B-mode ultrasonography, ARFI elastography and CEUS in the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease and its Stages in dogs. 24 healthy dogs and 28 with CKD were included. In B-mode, the echogenicity, echotexture and cortico-medullary ratio of the kidneys were verified. By elastography, the shear-wave velocity of the cortical (SWVcort) and medullary (SWVmed) regions were determined and tissue deformity was evaluated. Wash-in, wash-out and peak enhancement (TPic) of the contrast in the renal parenchyma were calculated and homogeneity, presence of filling gaps and distinction of filling phases were evaluated by CEUS. Changes in echogenicity, echotexture and cortico-medullary ratio were observed only in sick patients. There was an increase in SWVcort in CKD, with a cutoff point >2.91m/s. Healthy kidneys were non-deformable and 25% had changes in gray scales. There was an increase in wash-in and TPic, changes in filling characteristics, filling failures and difficulty in distinguishing between the Stages in CEUS in CKD. It was found that dogs with CKD 2, 3 and 4 had greater SWVcort and wash-in values than CKD 1. Elastographic and CEUS changes were observed in dogs with CKD, demonstrating the applicability of ultrasonographic techniques in their diagnosis.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a aplicabilidade da ultrassonografia modo-B, elastografia ARFI e CEUS no diagnóstico da doença renal crônica e seus estágios em cães. Foram incluídos 24 cães saudáveis e 28 com DRC. Pelo modo-B, verificou-se ecogenicidade, ecotextura e relação córtico-medular dos rins. Pela elastografia, foram determinadas as velocidades de cisalhamento das regiões cortical (SWVcort) e medular (SWVmed) e foi avaliada a deformidade tecidual. Calculou-se os temos de wash-in, wash-out e pico de intensidade (TPic) do parênquima renal e avaliou-se homogeneidade, presença de falhas e distinção das fases de preenchimento por contraste por meio de CEUS. Alterações em ecogenicidade, ecotextura e relação córtico-medular foram observadas somente em pacientes doentes. Houve aumento da SWVcort na DRC, com ponto de corte >2.91m/s. Rins saudáveis foram não-deformáveis e 25% apresentou alterações nas escalas de cinza. Houve aumento do wash-in e TPic, alterações nas características de preenchimento, falhas e dificuldade para distinguir as fases de preenchimento do contraste nos rins com DRC. Verificou-se que cães com DRC graus 2, 3 e 4 tiveram valores de SWVcort e wash-in maiores que cães com DRC grau 1. Foram obsrervadas alterações elastográfica e de CEUS em cães com DRC, demonstrando a aplicabilidade destas técnicas ultrassonográficas no seu diagnóstico.

Accuracy of ARFI elastography in the differentiation of cataract stages in dogs

ABSTRACT: Objective was to evaluate the accuracy of elastography in the differentiation between normal and cataract lenses One hundred forty-five eyes of 98 dogs were divided into groups according to cataract stage. Forty-twoeyes were submitted to phacoemulsification. Biometric parameters, echogenicity and echotexture patterns of the anterior, posterior and vitreous chambers, lens and retina-choroid-sclera complexes were evaluated by ocular ultrasound in modes A and B. Deformability, and color (blue color = indicated less rigid structures, color red = more rigid structures) of the lenses were evaluated by the elastogram. The shear wave velocity (SWV; m/s) was calculated in three regions of the lens, both in the cortex and in the nucleus. The SWV of nucleus was statistically different between the normal lenses and with cataracts, and between the stages of cataract (P 0.001). Healthy lenses and incipient cataracts had a more rigid nucleus. Mature cataracts presented lowest nuclear rigidity (P 0.001). On cortical region the SWV was significantly higher (P 0.01) in intumescent and incipient cataracts. SWV less than 2.67m/s indicates cataract with a sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 94%. Values lower than 2.23m/s suggest mature cataract, with sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 76%. SWV greater than 2.66 m/s are associated with normal lenses or incipient cataract, presenting sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 84%. Qualitative method allowed differentiation between healthy and affected lenses and the classification of evolutionary stages. There was a correlation between the degree of stiffness of lens in cortical and nuclear regions (p=00165, r=0.37) and between the balanced saline solution quantitative and surgical time (P 0.01, r=0.73). Degree of stiffness of lens did not correlate with parameters of phacoemulsification. Elastographic proved feasible for evaluating the lens of dogs, characterizing the types of cataracts, and demonstrating increased stiffness of the diseased lenses.

RESUMO: O objetivo foi avaliar a precisão da elastografia na diferenciação entre lentes normais e de catarata. Cento e quarenta e cinco olhos de 98 cães foram divididos em grupos de acordo com o estágio de maturação da catarata. Quarenta e dois olhos foram submetidos à facoemulsificação. Parâmetros biométricos, ecogenicidade e padrões de ecotextura das câmaras anterior, posterior e vítrea, lente e complexos retina-coróide-esclera foram avaliados por ultrassonografia ocular nos modos A e B. A deformabilidade e a coloração (cor azul = indicou estruturas menos rígidas, cor vermelha = estruturas mais rígidas) das lentes foram avaliadas pelo elastograma. A velocidade da onda de cisalhamento (SWV; m/s) foi calculada em três regiões da lente, tanto no córtex quanto no núcleo. A SWV do núcleo foi estatisticamente diferente entre as lentes normais e com catarata e entre os estágios da catarata (P 0,001). Lentes saudáveis e cataratas incipientes tinham um núcleo mais rígido. Cataratas maduras apresentaram menor rigidez nuclear (P 0,001). Na região cortical, a SWV foi significativamente maior (P 0,01) nas cataratas intumescentes e incipientes. Uma SWV menor que 2,67m/s indica catarata com sensibilidade de 72% e especificidade de 94%. Valores inferiores a 2,23m/s sugerem catarata madura, com sensibilidade de 71% e especificidade de 76%. Uma SWV superior a 2,66m/s está associada à catarata normal ou incipiente, apresentando sensibilidade de 94% e especificidade de 84%. O método qualitativo permitiu a diferenciação entre lentes normais de olhos saudáveis e afetadas e a classificação dos estágios evolutivos. A elastografia se mostrara uma ferramenta viável para avaliar as lentes de cães, caracterizando os tipos de catarata e demonstrando maior rigidez das lentes doentes.

Applicability of ARFI elastography in the evaluation of canine prostatic alterations detected by b-mode and Doppler Ultrasonography / [Aplicabilidade da elastografia ARFI na avaliação de alterações prostáticas caninas detectadas pela ultrassonografia modo-B e Doppler]

The aim of this study was to assess the applicability of ARFI elastography for the complementary diagnosis of canine prostatic alterations. Twenty-two healthy dogs and 45 with prostatic alterations were diagnosed by the association of general and specific physical exams. Complete blood count, B-mode and Doppler ultrasound were performed. For the elastography study, tissue homogeneity and deformity were verified using the elastogram, and the shear velocities of the left and right lobes of all prostates were obtained. The change in tissue homogeneity was observed in 62.2% of the animals, while the shear speed was significantly higher in dogs with prostatic alterations, with a cut-off point > 2.35m/s as an indication of change. All animals in both groups were non-deformable. It was concluded that ARFI elastography is capable of providing qualitative and quantitative results that assist in the diagnosis of canine prostatic alterations in a non-invasive way.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a aplicabilidade da elastografia ARFI na complementação diagnóstica das alterações prostáticas em cães. Foram avaliados 22 cães saudáveis e 45 com alterações prostáticas, diagnosticadas pela associação de exames físicos geral e específico, hemograma, ultrassonografia modo B e Doppler. No estudo elastográfico, foram verificadas a homogeneidade e a deformidade tecidual, pelo elastograma, e obtidas as velocidades de cisalhamento dos lobos esquerdo e direito de todas as próstatas. A alteração de homogeneidade tecidual foi observada em 62,2% dos animais, enquanto a velocidade de cisalhamento se mostrou significativamente maior em cães com alterações prostáticas, com ponto de corte >2,35m/s como indicativo de alteração. Todos os animais de ambos os grupos se apresentaram não deformáveis. Concluiu-se que a elastografia ARFI é capaz de fornecer resultados qualitativos e quantitativos que auxiliam no diagnóstico das alterações prostáticas caninas de forma não invasiva.(AU)

Elastografía por ultrasonido endoscópico en el tumor de recto / Endoscopic ultrasound elastography in the rectal tumor

Introducción: Para definir una adecuada estrategia terapéutica en el cáncer de recto es preciso una correcta estadificación. El ultrasonido endoscópico es un método de estadiaje preciso que define la profundidad del tumor y el estado nodal. En los tumores tratados con radioterapia disminuye su rentabilidad por la fibrosis que se origina en la pared rectal; indistinguible de los elementos de malignidad. La elastografía brinda la posibilidad de resolver esta limitación. Objetivo: Ofrecer una actualización sobre la elastografía por ultrasonido endoscópico en el diagnóstico del paciente con tumor rectal. Desarrollo: La elastografía se basa en las alteraciones que en la elasticidad del tejido inducen la fibrosis y el cáncer. Determina si un tejido es maligno o benigno mediante el análisis de su dureza. Se obtienen imágenes que se expresan en un mapa de colores superpuestas a la imagen convencional del ultrasonido endoscópico. Muchas investigaciones demuestran su elevada sensibilidad y especificidad en tumores de páncreas y ganglios linfáticos, algunas en tumores de esófago, sin embargo muy pocas en el cáncer rectal. Conclusiones: La elastografía ha mejorado el diagnóstico y seguimiento oncológico del paciente con tumor rectal(AU)

Introduction: To define an adequate therapeutic strategy in rectal cancer, a correct staging is necessary. For this, advanced diagnostic means have been developed to evaluate the rectal wall. Endoscopic Ultrasound a fundamental technique; combines endoscopic image with ultrasound; in tumors treated with radiotherapy, its profitability decreases due to fibrosis that originates in the rectal wall; indistinguishable from the elements of malignancy. Elastography offers the possibility of resolving this limitation. Objective: To offer an update on elastography by endoscopic ultrasound in the diagnosis of the patient with rectal tumor. Development: Elastography is based on the alterations that fibrosis and cancer induce in the elasticity of the tissue. Determine if a tissue is malignant or benign by analyzing its hardness. Images are obtained that are expressed on a color map superimposed on the conventional endoscopic ultrasound image. Many investigations demonstrate its high sensitivity and specificity in tumors of the pancreas and lymph nodes, some in esophageal tumors, however very few in rectal cancer. Conclusions: Elastography has improved the diagnosis and oncological follow-up of the patient with rectal tumor(AU)

Infección crónica por virus de hepatitis B. Instituto de Gastroenterología de Cuba, 2016-2018 / Chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Institute of Gastroenterology, Havana, Cuba; 2016-2018

Introducción: La efectividad del programa nacional de inmunización ha impactado en la reducción de la incidencia del virus de la hepatitis B en Cuba; sin embargo, no es despreciable la cantidad de pacientes infectados crónicos, que por esta causa, se detectan en la práctica asistencial, aunque insuficientes los estudios epidemiológicos que los caracterizan. Objetivo: Describir las principales características clínicas, biomoleculares e inmunológicas de los pacientes con VHB crónica atendidos en el Instituto de Gastroenterología de Cuba. Materiales y métodos: 97 pacientes que tenían al menos un historial de 6 meses de infección crónica con VHB fueron reclutados en la propia institución desde enero 2016 hasta enero 2018. Se realizaron análisis estadísticos descriptivos para las características clínicas, estudios bioquímicos, virológicos, grado de dureza hepática (medido por elastografía transitoria) y terapia antiviral. Resultados: Todos los pacientes completaron el seguimiento; 61,9 por ciento eran varones y la mediana (rango) de edad fue de 46 (18-84) años. La media de tiempo desde el diagnóstico de la infección fue de 11,7 ± 8,9 años. El 61,9 por ciento tenían enfermedad inactiva sin fibrosis hepática o fibrosis ligera. Solamente el 2 por ciento eran negativos para el antígeno de superficie de la hepatitis B con el DNA cuantificable del VHB, el 81,4 por ciento tenían carga viral detectable y el 85,5 por ciento recibieron uno o más tratamientos antivirales, principalmente los análogos del nucleótido/sido. Conclusiones: Los pacientes con la infección crónica del VHB estudiados, en su mayoría se encuentran en fase inactiva de su enfermedad, sin evidencia significativa de daño hepático, con niveles detectables de viremia y han recibido algún tratamiento antiviral(AU)

Introduction: The effectiveness of the national immunization program has impacted on the reduction of the incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Cuba; however, the number of chronically infected patients is not negligible. These patients are diagnosed in the clinical practice, although the epidemiological studies that indicate the presence of the disease are insufficient. Objective: To describe the main clinical, biomolecular and immunological characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection treated at the National Institute of Gastroenterology, Havana, Cuba. Materials and methods: A total of 97 patients who had at least a 6-month history of chronic HBV infection were recruited at the above mentioned institution from January 2016 to January 2018. Descriptive statistical analyzes were performed to identify the clinical characteristics. Biochemical and virological studies, analysis of both liver stiffness values measured by transient elastography and use of antiviral therapy were also carried out. Results: All patients completed the follow-up. It was observed that 61,9 percent of them were male and the median (range) age was 46 (18-84) years. The mean time since the diagnosis of the infection was 11.7 ± 8,9 years. Inactive disease without liver fibrosis or light fibrosis was present in 61,9 percent. Only 2 percent were negative for hepatitis B surface antigen with quantitative analysis of HBV DNA; also, 81,4 percent of patients had detectable viral load and 85,5 percent received one or more antiviral treatments, mainly nucleotide analogues. Conclusions: The patients with chronic HBV infection studied are mostly in the inactive phase of their disease, without significant evidence of liver damage and detectable levels of viremia. All of them have received some antiviral treatment(AU)