Síndrome de Balint y trombosis de senos venosos cerebrales: reporte de caso / Balint syndrome and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: Case report

Introducción: El síndrome de Balint es un trastorno neurológico infrecuente, de etiología diversa, cuya presentación incluye la triada clásica de: simultagnosia, ataxia óptica y apraxia oculomotora, síntomas secundarios asociados a lesiones parieto-occipitales, con pronóstico variable según la etiología que se encuentre. A continuación, se reporta un caso secundario a una trombosis de senos venosos. Presentación del caso: Mujer de 66 años que ingresa a urgencias por cefalea aguda asociada a síntomas neurológicos progresivos con compromiso visual. Presentó tensión arterial elevada, simultagnosia, ataxia óptica y apraxia oculomotora. Los estudios imagenológicos reportaron hemorragia subaracnoidea por trombosis de seno sigmoideo izquierdo, por lo que se inició anticoagulación, antihipertensivo, con adecuada evolución del cuadro clínico. Discusión: A pesar de que el síndrome de Balint es un trastorno poco común, de etiología diversa, con escasos reportes a escala global, el caso comentado concordó con las características descritas en la literatura. El abordaje de la paciente en su atención inicial permitió la sospecha diagnóstica oportuna y la indicación de ayudas diagnósticas imagenológicas pertinentes. Tales ayudas soportaron un manejo temprano y la adecuada evolución y resolución del cuadro, en el contexto de la asociación del síndrome a una trombosis de senos venosos cerebrales (una etiología infrecuente). Conclusión: Mediante una historia clínica completa y minuciosa, junto a un adecuado examen neurológico, es posible hacer un acercamiento diagnóstico temprano que permita generar la sospecha del síndrome de Balint y la solicitud temprana de imágenes diagnósticas que orienten en el estudio de su etiología y manejo oportuno, con mejores desenlaces en el paciente.

Introduction: Balint Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder with multiple etiologies. The physical signs include a classic triad (simultagnosia, optic ataxia, and oculomotor apraxia). These symptoms are associated with parieto-occipital lesions, and the prognosis depends on the etiology. This article reports a case secondary to venous sinus thrombosis. Presentation of the case: A 66-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with acute headache associated with progressive neurological symptoms and visual impairment. She had high blood pressure, simultanagnosia, optic ataxia, and oculomotor apraxia. Imaging studies revealed subarachnoid hemorrhage due to thrombosis of the left sigmoid sinus, for which anticoagulation and antihypertensive therapy were started. The patient had a favorable clinical outcome. Discussion: Although Balint syndrome is a rare disorder of diverse etiology with few clinical cases reported globally, the case discussed here was consistent with the characteristics described in the literature. The patient's initial assessment allowed for timely diagnostic suspicion and appropriate imaging studies, which supported early management and the appropriate evolution and resolution of the condition, given the association of the syndrome with an uncommon cause as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Conclusion: A complete and thorough medical history, along with a proper neurological exam, can lead to an early diagnostic approach that raises suspicion of Balint's syndrome and prompts timely imaging studies to guide the investigation of its etiology and management, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the patient.

Feasibility for evaluating motor aspects of Parkinson's disease through video consultations in a resource-limited setting in Southern Brazil / Viabilidade para avaliar os aspectos motores da doença de Parkinson através de consultas por vídeo em um ambiente de recursos limitados no sul do Brasil

Abstract Background Performing motor evaluations using videoconferencing for patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is safe and feasible. However, the feasibility of these evaluations is not adequately studied in resource-limited settings. Objective To evaluate the feasibility of performing motor evaluations for patients with PD in a resource-limited setting. Methods The examiners rated motor aspects of parkinsonism of 34 patients with PD from the Brazilian public healthcare system through telemedicine with the patient's own means by using the Movement Disorder Society-Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) rating scale. Quality measures of the video meeting were also obtained. The feasibility of rating the motor aspects was the primary outcome whereas the rating of individual motor aspects, video meeting quality and predictors of a complete evaluation served as secondary outcomes. Results The least assessable parameters were freezing of gait (52.9%), gait (70.6%), leg agility, and rest tremor (both 76.5%). Complete MDS-UPDRS part III was possible in 41.2% of patients and 62 out of 374 motor aspects evaluated (16.6%) were missed. Available physical space for a video evaluation was the worst quality measure. Incomplete evaluations were directly associated with disability (p = 0.048, r = 0.34) and inversely with available physical space (p = 0.003, r = 0.55). Conclusion A significant portion of the MDS-UPDRS part III is unable to be performed during telemedicine-based evaluations in a real-life scenario of a resource-limited setting.

Resumo Antecedentes Realizar avaliações motoras usando videoconferência para pacientes com doença de Parkinson (DP) é seguro e viável. Entretanto, a viabilidade dessas avaliações não é adequadamente estudada em cenários com recursos limitados. Objetivo Identificar a viabilidade de realizar avaliações motoras para pacientes com DP em um ambiente com recursos limitados. Métodos Os examinadores avaliaram os aspectos motores da DP de 34 pacientes do sistema público de saúde brasileiro através da telemedicina com os próprios meios do paciente usando a escala Movement Disorder Society-Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS). Medidas de qualidade da videochamada também foram obtidas. A viabilidade da classificação dos aspectos motores foi o resultado primário, enquanto a classificação dos aspectos motores individuais, a qualidade das videoconferências e os preditores de uma avaliação completa serviram como resultados secundários. Resultados Os parâmetros menos avaliáveis foram congelamento da marcha (52,9%), marcha (70,6%), agilidade dos membros inferiores e tremor de repouso (ambos 76,5%). A parte III completa da MDS-UPDRS foi possível em 41,2% dos pacientes, mas não foi possível avaliar 62 do total de 374 aspectos motores (16,6%). O espaço físico disponível para uma avaliação em vídeo foi a pior medida de qualidade. As avaliações incompletas foram diretamente associadas ao nível de dependência (p = 0,048, r = 0,34) e inversamente ao espaço físico disponível (p = 0,003, r = 0,55). Conclusão Uma porção significativa da parte III da MDS-UPDRS é perdida durante as avaliações baseadas em telemedicina em um cenário da vida real com recursos limitados.

Neurodesarrollo en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso nacidos en Matanzas en el periodo 2016-2018

RESUMEN Fundamento La comparación de los resultados del neurodesarrollo en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso según cohortes de años de nacimiento permite evaluar el impacto de las diferentes intervenciones llevadas a cabo para prevenir y tratar las afecciones más frecuentes en este grupo de pacientes durante el período perinatal y neonatal, así como de las diferentes condiciones y enfermedades que se presentan en estas etapas del desarrollo. Objetivo evaluar el neurodesarrollo a los dos años de edad corregida en una cohorte de recién nacidos de muy bajo peso. Métodos estudio observacional prospectivo, que incluyó a recién nacidos pretérminos con peso al nacer <1500 g egresados vivos del Hospital Docente Ginecobstétrico Provincial de Matanzas, en el período 2016-2018, y que hubieran completado su seguimiento en consulta de neurodesarrollo a los dos años de edad corregida (N=52). Los datos contenidos en las historias clínicas fueron almacenados en una base de datos (SPSS v. 22.0), a partir de la cual se realizó el procesamiento estadístico. Se consideró significativo todo valor p <0,05. Resultados a los dos años de edad corregida, el 90 % de los pacientes eran normales; las alteraciones mayores y menores se encontraron, respectivamente, en 2 y 8 % de los casos. Las convulsiones neonatales clínicas se asociaron significativamente con la ocurrencia de alteraciones del neurodesarrollo. Conclusión La incidencia de alteraciones del neurodesarrollo a los dos años de edad corregida en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso en Matanzas fue menor en el período estudiado, en relación a años anteriores, aunque este hallazgo no resultó estadísticamente significativo.

ABSTRACT Background The comparison of neurodevelopmental results in very low birth weight newborns according to birth year cohorts allows evaluating the impact of the different interventions carried out to prevent and treat the most frequent conditions in this group of patients during the perinatal period and neonatal, as well as the different conditions and diseases that occur in these stages of development. Objective to evaluate neurodevelopment at two years of corrected age in a cohort of very low birth weight newborns. Methods prospective observational study, which included preterm newborns with birth weight <1500 g discharged alive from the Provincial Gynecobstetric Teaching Hospital of Matanzas, in the period 2016-2018, and who had completed their follow-up in a neurodevelopment consultation at two years old corrected age (N=52). The data contained in the medical records were stored in a database (SPSS v. 22.0), from which the statistical processing was performed. Any value p<0.05 was considered significant. Results at two years old of corrected age, 90% of the patients were normal; major and minor alterations were found, respectively, in 2 and 8% of cases. Clinical neonatal seizures were significantly associated with the occurrence of neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Conclusion The incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders at two years old of corrected age in very low birth weight newborns in Matanzas was lower in the period studied, in relation to previous years, although this finding was not statistically significant.

Manifestaciones neurológicas de la COVID-19 / Neurological manifestations of COVID-19

Objetivo: Describir la fisiopatología de las manifestaciones neurológicas por infección con COVID-19. Método: Revisión sistemática de 22 articulos relacionados con el objetivo de investigación, procedentes de la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: Dentro de las manifestaciones clínicas del COVID-19 en el SNP, se hallaron en los reportes clínicos, disminución parcial de la capacidad de percibir olores, denominada hiposmia y reducción total de la misma, denominada anosmia, así mismo otros pacientes o en los mismos que reportaron el anterior síntoma, refirieron haber perdido la capacidad para distinguir sabores, así la hipogeusia, y la ageusia también iban de la mano con la hiposmia. Conclusión: Se ha demostrado que el SARS-CoV-2 tiene un tropismo por las células del sistema nervioso, lo cual significaría una afectación al sistema nervioso que demás puede ser afectado por la tormenta de citoquinas, que a su vez pueden desarrollar un daño directo al parénquima neuronal.

Objective: To describe the pathophysiology of neurological manifestations due to infection with COVID-19. Methods: Systematic review of 22 articles related to the research objective, from the PubMed database. Results: Among the clinical manifestations of COVID-19 in the PNS, in the clinical reports, partial reduction of the ability to perceive odors, called hyposmia and total reduction of the same, called anosmia, as well as other patients or in the same patients who reported the previous symptom, reported having lost the ability to distinguish flavors, thus hypogeusia and ageusia also went hand in hand with hyposmia. Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to have a tropism for nervous system cells, which would mean an affectation to the nervous system that can be further affected by the cytokine storm, which in turn can develop direct damage to the neuronal parenchyma.

Neurological deficit and neurobehavioral evaluation of non-human primate ischemic stroke model / 国际脑血管病杂志

Because the clinical studies of neuroprotective drugs ended in failure, the Stroke Treatment Academy Industry Roundtable recommended the use of non-human primates for preclinical research on stroke. Non-human primates are the bridge between basic experiment and clinical research, and the experimental results are of great reference value. However, non-human primate stroke models have a variety of neurological deficits and behavioral evaluation methods, and the scoring methods also have their own emphases. It is easy to have differences in the evaluation, or there are deficiencies in the scale itself, resulting in inaccurate scoring, which directly affects the experimental results and the implementation of subsequent research. This article summarizes the neurological deficits and behavioral evaluation methods of non-human primate stroke model.

Prediction of outcomes after endovascular mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke by NIHSS score at 24 h after onset / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate the predictive value of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at baseline and 24 h after the onset for the outcomes after endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (EMT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke.Methods:Patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusive acute ischemic stroke received EMT in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from July 2018 to June 2020 were enrolled prospectively. According to the modified Rankin Scale scores at 3 months after the onset, they were divided into good outcome group (0-2) and poor outcome group (3-6). The demographic and clinical data between the groups were compared. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent influencing factors of clinical outcomes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of the independent influencing factors for outcomes. Results:A total of 124 patients were included. Their age was 65.23±12.40 years, 80 were males (64.5%). The baseline NIHSS score was 15 (interquartile range, 11-19). Seventy-two patients (58.1%) had a good outcome and 52 (41.9%) had a poor outcome. Univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences in age, degree of vascular recanalization, baseline and 24 h NIHSS score after onset, and whether having intracranial hemorrhage or not between the good outcome group and the poor outcome group ( P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that there was a significant independent correlation between the NIHSS score at 24 h after onset and the poor outcome (odds ratio [ OR] 1.243, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 1.125-1.373; P<0.001). ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve of poor outcome predicted by baseline NIHSS score was 0.639 (95% CI 0.542-0.737), and the predictive sensitivity and specificity were 80.8% and 45.8% respectively. The area under the curve of poor outcome predicted by NIHSS score at 24 h after onset was 0.830 (95% CI 0.759-0.902), and the predictive sensitivity and specificity were 94.2% and 65.3% respectively. Conclusion:In patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusive acute ischemic stroke receiving EMT, the NIHSS score at 24 h after onset has higher predictive value for poor outcomes at 3 months after onset, and is significantly better than the baseline NIHSS score.

The general movement checklist: A guide to the assessment of general movements during preterm and term age

Abstract Objectives To develop a checklist describing features of normal and abnormal general movements in order to guide General Movement Assessment novices through the assessment procedure, to provide a quantification of General Movement Assessment; and to demonstrate that normal and abnormal GMs can be distinguished on the basis of a metric checklist score. Methods Three examiners used General Movement Assessment and the newly developed GM checklist to assess 20 videos of 16 infants (seven males) recorded at 31-45 weeks postmenstrual age (writhing general movements). Inter- and intra-scorer agreement was determined for General Movement Assessment (nominal data; Kappa values) and the checklist score (metric scale ranging from 0 to 26; Intraclass Correlation values). The scorers' satisfaction with the usefulness of the checklist was assessed by means of a short questionnaire (score 10 for maximum satisfaction). Results The scorers' satisfaction ranged from 8.44 to 9.14, which indicates high satisfaction. The median checklist score of the nine videos showing normal general movements was significantly higher than that of the eleven videos showing abnormal general movements (26 vs. 11, p < 0.001). The checklist score also differentiated between poor-repertoire (median = 13) and cramped-synchronized general movements (median = 7; p = 0.002). Inter- and intra-scorer agreement on (i) normal vs. abnormal general movements was good to excellent (Kappa = 0.68-1.00); (ii) the distinction between the four general movement categories was considerable to excellent (Kappa = 0.56-0.93); (iii) the checklist was good to excellent (ICC = 0.77-0.96). Conclusion The general movement checklist proved an important tool for the evaluation of normal and abnormal general movements; its score may potentially document individual trajectories and the effect of therapeutic intervention.

Clinical and molecular correlates of the ASPECTS in the acute phase of stroke / Correlação clínica e molecular com a ASPECTS na fase aguda do acidente vascular cerebral

ABSTRACT Background: The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) scale was developed for monitoring early ischemic changes on CT, being associated with clinical outcomes. The ASPECTS can also associate with peripheral biomarkers that reflect the pathophysiological response of the brain to the ischemic stroke. Objective: To investigate the association between peripheral biomarkers with the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) in individuals after ischemic stroke. Methods: Patients over 18 years old with acute ischemic stroke were enrolled in this study. No patient was eligible for thrombolysis. The patients were submitted to non-contrast CT in the first 24 hours of admission, being the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score and clinical and molecular evaluations applied on the same day. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin scale and the Mini-Mental State Examination for clinical evaluation were also applied to all subjects. Plasma levels of BDNF, VCAM-1, VEGF, IL-1β, sTNFRs and adiponectin were determined by ELISA. Results: Worse neurological impairment (NIHSS), cognitive (MEEM) and functional (Rankin) performance was observed in the group with changes in the NCTT. Patients with NCTT changes also exhibited higher levels of IL-1β and adiponectin. In the linear multivariate regression, an adjusted R coefficient of 0.515 was found, indicating adiponectin and NIHSS as independent predictors of ASPECTS. Conclusion: Plasma levels of adiponectin are associated with the ASPECTS scores.

RESUMO Introdução: A Alberta Stroke Early Score (ASPECTS) foi desenvolvida para monitorização de alterações isquêmicas precoces na tomografia computadorizada de crânio, estando associada a desfechos clínicos. A ASPECTS também pode se associar aos biomarcadores periféricos que refletem a resposta fisiopatológica do cérebro ao AVC isquêmico. Objetivo: Investigar à associação entre os parâmetros periféricos com a Alberta Stroke Early Score (ASPECTS) em indivíduos após acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico. Métodos: Pacientes acima de 18 anos com AVC isquêmico agudo foram incluídos neste estudo. Nenhum paciente foi elegível para trombólise. Os pacientes foram submetidos à tomografia computadorizada sem contraste nas primeiras 24 horas da admissão, a ASPECTS e as avaliações clínicas e moleculares aplicadas no mesmo dia. O National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), a escala de Rankin modificada e o Mini Exame do Estado Mental para avaliação clínica também foram aplicados a todos os indivíduos. Os níveis plasmáticos de BDNF, VCAM-1, VEGF, IL-1β, sTNFRs e adiponectina foram determinados por ELISA. Resultados: Pior desempenho neurológico (NIHSS), cognitivo (MEEM) e funcional (Rankin) foram observados no grupo com alterações na ASPECTS. Pacientes com alterações na ASPECTS também exibiram níveis mais altos de IL-1β e adiponectina. Na regressão multivariada linear, foi encontrado um coeficiente R ajustado de 0,515, indicando adiponectina e NIHSS como preditores independentes para a ASPECTS. Conclusão: Os níveis plasmáticos de adiponectina estão associados aos escores da ASPECTS.

Predictive value of the general movements assessment in preterm infants: a meta-analysis / Valor preditivo da general movements assessment na avaliação neurológica de recém-nascidos pré-termo: uma metanálise

ABSTRACT Objective: To discuss the predictive value of the General Movements Assessment for the diagnosis of neurodevelopment disorders in preterm newborns. Data source: We conducted a systematic literature review using the following databases: Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health (PubMed), and Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE). The articles were filtered by language, year of publication, population of interest, use of Prechtl's Method on the Qualitative Assessment of General Movements, and presence of variables related to the predictive value. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 was used to assess the methodology of the included studies. Sensitivity, specificity, Diagnostic Odds Ratio, positive and negative likelihood ratio, and parameter of accuracy were calculated. Data synthesis: Six of 342 articles were included. The evaluation of Writhing Movements is a good indicator for recognizing cerebral palsy, as it has high values for the sensitivity and accuracy parameters. The evaluation of Fidgety Movements has the strongest predictive validity for cerebral palsy, as it has high values in all measures of diagnostic accuracy. The quality assessment shows high risk of bias for patient selection and flow and timing of the evaluation. Therefore, the scale has potential to detect individuals with neurodevelopment disorders. However, the studies presented limitations regarding the selection of subjects and the assessment of neurological outcomes. Conclusions: Despite the high predictive values of the tool to identify neurological disorders, research on the subject is required due to the heterogeneity of the current studies.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar o valor preditivo da General Movements Assessment para o diagnóstico de alterações do neurodesenvolvimento em recém-nascidos pré-termo. Fonte de dados: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura utilizando as bases de dados: Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health (PubMed) e Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE). Os artigos foram filtrados por idioma, ano de publicação, população de interesse, utilização do Método Prechtl de avaliação e presença das variáveis relacionadas ao valor preditivo da escala. O Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 foi utilizado para avaliar a metodologia dos artigos. Foi realizado o cálculo de sensibilidade, especificidade, Diagnostic Odds Ratio, razão de verossimilhanças positiva e negativa e parâmetro de acurácia. Síntese dos dados: Foram incluídos seis artigos dentre os 342 encontrados. A escala, quando realizada no período Writhing Movements, possui bom poder discriminativo para o desfecho paralisia cerebral, com valores elevados de sensibilidade e acurácia. Quando realizada no período Fidgety Movements, possui maior valor preditivo para paralisia cerebral, com valores elevados em todas as medidas de acurácia diagnóstica. O risco de viés foi considerado elevado na seleção de pacientes e no fluxo e momento da avaliação. Desse modo, a escala tem potencial para detectar indivíduos que evoluíram com alterações do neurodesenvolvimento, porém, os artigos apresentaram limitações quanto à seleção dos sujeitos e à forma de avaliação do desfecho neurológico. Conclusões: Apesar dos altos valores preditivos descritos para identificação de alterações neurológicas, novas pesquisas são necessárias, devido à heterogeneidade dos estudos e ao método de avaliação a longo prazo do neurodesenvolvimento.

Preterm infants with peri/intraventricular hemorrhage have poorer habituation responses to external stimuli / Neonatos prematuros com hemorragia peri-intraventricular apresentam respostas de habituação piores a estímulos externos

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the association between intra-ventricular hemorrhage and habituation responses to external stimuli in preterm infants at 36-38 weeks post-conceptual age. Methods: Cross-sectional study of infants with gestational age <32 weeks. Intra-ventricular hemorrhage was identified by cranial ultrasonography and classified according to Papile et al. (1978). The luminous (flashlight), sound (rattle, bell), and tactile stimuli were presented, and the responses were scored according to Lester and Tronik (2004). Habituation response scores were compared between groups by Student's t-test. The association between IVH and habituation scores was evaluated by linear regression adjusted for GA, clinical severity score, post-conceptual age at habituation assessment, sepsis, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Results: Sixty-five infants were studied, 20 with intra-ventricular hemorrhage (16 grades I/II; four grades III/IV) and 45 without intra-ventricular hemorrhage. Infants with intra-ventricular hemorrhage had lower gestational age (28.2 ± 2.2 vs. 29.7 ± 1.7 weeks) and birth weight (990 ± 305 vs. 1275 ± 360 g). Infants with intra-ventricular hemorrhage at 36-38 weeks post-conceptual age had lower habituation scores to light (4.21 ± 2.23 vs. 6.09 ± 2.44), rattle (3.84 ± 2.12 vs. 6.18 ± 2.27), and bell (3.58 ± 1.74 vs. 5.20 ± 2.47) after controlling for confounders. No differences were found for tactile stimulus. Conclusion: Infants with gestational age <32 weeks and intra-ventricular hemorrhage had poorer habituation responses to external stimuli than those without intra-ventricular hemorrhage at 36-38 weeks post-conceptual age.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre hemorragia intraventricular e as respostas de habituação a estímulos externos em neonatos prematuros com idade pós-conceptual de 36-38 semanas. Métodos: Estudo transversal com neonatos com idade gestacional < 32 semanas. A hemorragia intraventricular foi identificada por ultrassonografia craniana e classificada de acordo com Papile et al. (1978). Os estímulos luminosos (lanterna), sonoros (chocalho, sino) e táteis foram apresentados e as respostas foram pontuadas de acordo com Lester & Tronik (2004). Os escores das respostas de habituação foram comparadas entre os grupos pelo teste t de Student. A associação entre a hemorragia intraventricular e os escores de habituação foi avaliada por regressão linear ajustada para a idade gestacional, escore de gravidade clínica, idade pós-conceptual na avaliação da habituação, sepse e displasia broncopulmonar. Resultados: 65 neonatos foram estudados, 20 com hemorragia intraventricular (16 graus I/II;4 graus III/IV) e 45 sem hemorragia intraventricular. Os neonatos com hemorragia intraventricular apresentaram menor idade gestacional (28,2 ± 2,2 vs. 29,7 ± 1,7 semanas) e peso ao nascer (990 ± 305 vs. 1275 ± 360 g). Os neonatos com hemorragia intraventricular na idade pós-conceptual de 36-38 semanas apresentaram escores de habituação menores a luz (4,21 ± 2,23 vs. 6,09 ± 2,44), chocalho (3,84 ± 2,12 vs. 6,18 ± 2,27) e campainha (3,58 ± 1,74 vs. 5,20 ± 2,47) após controle para variáveis de confusão. Nenhuma diferença foi encontrada para os estímulos táteis. Conclusão: Neonatos com idade gestacional < 32 semanas e hemorragia intraventricular apresentaram respostas de habituação piores a estímulos externos que os sem hemorragia intraventricular, na idade pós-conceptual de 36-38 semanas.

Neurological signs described at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro: connecting the past to the future / Sinais neurológicos descritos na Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro: conectando o passado ao futuro

ABSTRACT The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) is one of the pillars of Brazilian Medicine and, in Neurology, has always shown prominence, with notable professors such as Antônio Austregésilo and Deolindo Couto. Historically, practitioners of the UFRJ Medical School have discovered neurological signs that, although used in medical and academic practice, have never been published. Objective Our aim was to bring these signs to the forefront so that they become properly recognized and studied. Methods We conducted our search by questioning 49 professors and physicians by e-mail about neurological signs that they remembered having had contact with at UFRJ. Results We report on the unpublished pillow sign in progressive supranuclear palsy; the Brazilian sandal sign in functional or malingering patients; the dermographism sign in acute meningitis; the reverse forearm rolling sign in functional palsies; the cycling maneuver in parkinsonian syndromes and the Sá Cavalcanti sign, a Babinski equivalent. We have also recollected the following published signs for their historical relevance: the Austregésilo sign (Antônio Austregésilo), another Babinski equivalent; the digiti quinti rolling sign in subtle palsies (Péricles Maranhão) and the digiti quinti sign in hemiplegic migraine (Maurice Vincent). These signs are easily reproduced and have potential clinical applicability, deserving to be more thoroughly studied. Conclusions Through a qualitative methodology, we have identified six original unpublished neurological signs known by the academic community, establishing the contribution of these individuals to the expansion of neurological semiology.

RESUMO A Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro é um dos pilares da Medicina brasileira. Na Neurologia sempre se destacou com notáveis professores, como Antônio Austregésilo e Deolindo Couto. Historicamente, professores da Faculdade de Medicina da UFRJ descreveram sinais neurológicos que, embora utilizados na prática médica e acadêmica, nunca foram publicados. Objetivo Fazer ressurgir sinais clínicos neurológicos nunca antes publicados, para que possam ser devidamente reconhecidos e estudados. Métodos Quarenta e nove professores e médicos foram contactados por e-mail. Dez responderam questionário semi-estruturado acerca de sinais neurológicos conhecidos pelos profissionais, porém nunca publicados. Resultados Foram relatados: 1- Sinal do Travesseiro - na Paralisia Supranuclear Progressiva; 2- Sinal da sandália- nos pacientes funcionais ou simuladores; 3- Sinal do dermografismo- nas meningites agudas da infância; 4- Sinal do rolamento reverso do antebraço- nas paralisias funcionais; 5- Manobra do pedalar- nas síndromes parkinsonianas; 6- Sinal de Sá Cavalcanti- um sucedâneo de Babinski. Revisamos também os seguintes sinais publicados, por sua relevância histórica: o sinal Austregésilo, outro sucedâneo de Babinski; sinal do rolamento do quinto dedo- nas paralisias sutis e o sinal do quinto dedo- na enxaqueca hemiplégia. Conclusão Por meio de metodologia qualitativa, identificamos seis sinais neurológicos inéditos originais. Esses sinais são de fácil reprodutibilidade e têm aplicabilidade clínica potencial, merecendo estudos adicionais.

Desarrollo motor de una cohorte retrospectiva de niños colombianos de hasta un año de edad corregida, según la escala motora infantil de Alberta / Corrected motor development in a retrospective cohort of Colombian children of up to one year of age according to the Alberta Infant Motor Scale / Desenvolvimento motor de uma coorte retrospectiva de crianças colombianas até um ano de idade corrigida, de acordo com a Alberta Children's Motor Scale

RESUMEN Objetivos La escala motora infantil de Alberta (escala de Alberta en el texto) es utilizada a nivel mundial para evaluar el desarrollo motor en niños menores de 18 meses tanto pretermino como a término. En Colombia la herramienta es utilizada, pero hay poca información sobre los resultados que arroja. El objetivo del estudio fue caracterizar a una cohorte retrospectiva de niños menores de un año según la escala de Alberta para generar información sobre los resultados de la aplicación de esta en población colombiana atendida en un hospital de cuarto nivel. Métodos Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, transversal, donde se evaluaron las historias clínicas de 411 niños con edad corregida entre 0 y 12 meses de edad y antecedentes de edad gestacional de menos de 40 semanas, a todos los niños se les aplico la escala de Alberta entre 2010 y 2016 y los puntajes según esta se analizaron estadísticamente en forma descriptiva. Resultados La mayoría de los pacientes fueron clasificados por la escala como "desarrollo normal" como se esperaría por sus antecedentes, los niños de nuestra muestra presentan puntajes inferiores a los de la muestra original de Canadá en todas las edades. Conclusiones La escala se mostró útil en el tamizaje del niño normal, sin embargo, los pacientes presentaron menores puntajes al ser evaluados por la escala que en el estudio original, se genera evidencia sobre la necesidad de validar la escala en Colombia y generar curvas de referencia para esta.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objectives The Alberta Infant Motor Scale is used worldwide to assess motor development in children under 18 months of age, both preterm and full-term. In Colombia, the scale is used, but there is little information on the results it yields. The objective of this study was to characterize a retrospective cohort of children under one year of age according to the Alberta scale to generate information about the results of its application in a Colombian population treated at a highly specialized hospital. Methods Descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study, in which the medical records of 411 children with corrected age between 0 and 12 months and a history of gestational age less than 40 weeks were evaluated. The Alberta scale was applied to all children between 2010 and 2016, and scores were analyzed statistically in a descriptive form. Results Most patients were classified by the scale as "normal development" as would be expected based on their medical history. The children in our sample had lower scores than those of the original Canadian sample at all ages. Conclusions The scale was useful for screening normal children; however, the patients had lower scores when they were evaluated by the scale than in the original study, thus making evident the need to validate the scale in Colombia and generate reference curves.(AU)

RESUMO: Objetivos A Escala Motora Infantil de Alberta (escala Alberta no texto) é usada globalmente para avaliar o desenvolvimento motor em crianças menores de 18 meses, pré-termo e termo. Na Colômbia, a ferramenta é usada, mas há pouca informação sobre os resultados mostrados. O objetivo do estudo foi caracterizar uma coorte retrospectiva de crianças menores de um ano, de acordo com a escala de Alberta, para gerar informações sobre os resultados de sua aplicação na população colombiana atendida em um hospital de quarto nível. Métodos Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, transversal, onde foram avaliados os prontuários de 411 crianças com idade corrigida entre 0 e 12 meses e histórico de idade gestacional inferior a 40 semanas, a escala de Alberta foi aplicada a todas as crianças entre 2010 e 2016 e as pontuações correspondentes foram analisadas estatisticamente de forma descritiva. Resultados A maioria dos pacientes foi classificada pela escala como "desenvolvimento normal", como seria de esperar em sua história; as crianças de nossa amostra tiveram escores mais baixos do que a amostra canadense original em todas as idades. Conclusões A escala foi útil na triagem da criança normal; no entanto, os pacientes tiveram escores mais baixos quando avaliados pela escala do que no estudo original; foram geradas evidências sobre a necessidade de validar a escala na Colômbia e gerar curvas de referência.(AU)

Clinical application of Hammersmith infant neurological examination / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

The Hammersmith infant neurological examination (HINE) is a simple, scoreable, standardized clinical neurological examination for infants between 2 months and 24 months of age.It only requires 5 to 10 minutes to complete without the necessity of using specific professional equipment.The HINE can assist in the early detection, diagnosis and prognosis of infants at risk of developing cerebral palsy, being widely used in the early follow-up protocol of high-risk infants.

Clinical application of Hammersmith infant neurological examination / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

The Hammersmith infant neurological examination (HINE) is a simple,scoreable,standardized clinical neurological examination for infants between 2 months and 24 months of age.It only requires 5 to 10 minutes to complete without the necessity of using specific professional equipment.The HINE can assist in the early detection,diagnosis and prognosis of infants at risk of developing cerebral palsy,being widely used in the early follow-up protocol of high-risk infants.

Triagem neurológica de recém-nascidos pré-termo com hemorragias peri e intraventriculares: estudo transversal observacional / Neurological screening of preterm infants with peri- and intra-ventricular hemorrhage: observation transversal study

INTRODUÇÃO: Recém-nascidos pré-termo (RNPT) com menos de 27 semanas de idade gestacional apresentam vulnerabilidade para o desenvolvimento de hemorragias peri e intraventriculares (HPIV), o que pode afetar a mielinização e organização do córtex cerebral, acarretando possíveis prejuízos ao desenvolvimento. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o comportamento neurológico de RNPT acometido por HPIV com e sem sepse segundo a versão resumida do Método Dubowitz, delimitar a presença de itens desviantes da avaliação e comparar com as respostas obtidas pelo grupo controle (sem HPIV). MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado no Hospital Municipal Universitário de São Bernardo do Campo (SP). Os RNPT foram divididos em três grupos, sendo dois estudos (HPIV e HPIV + sepse) e um controle. Os participantes foram avaliados com idade correspondente ao termo. A versão resumida do método, utilizada como triagem para recém-nascidos de risco neurológico é constituída por 12 itens. As análises foram realizadas segundo pontuações desviantes nestes itens e comparadas com as pontuações esperadas para a normalidade. Os dados obtidos foram comparados na pontuação resumida e na pontuação da versão íntegra. RESULTADOS: A frequência de RNPT com pontuações atípicas foram: 40% no grupo HPIV + sepse, 10% no grupo HPIV e 15% no controle. CONCLUSÃO: A HPIV de forma isolada não parece ser um fator significante para presença de itens desviantes no Método Dubowitz resumido. A presença de HPIV em graus mais severos esteve associada à presença de sepse. Os RNPT com HPIV associada à sepse obtiveram pior desempenho neurológico.

INTRODUCTION: Preterm infants with less than 27 weeks of gestacional age present vulnerability for development of periand intraventricular hemorrhage (PIVH). This can affect the myelinization and organization of cerebral cortex, leading to possible developmental impairment. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the neurological behavior of preterm infants affected by PIVH with and without sepsis according to the Dubowitz Method summary, to delimit the presence of deviant items of the evaluation and to compare with the results of the control group (without PIVH). METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. The preterm infants were divided in three groups, two study groups (PIVH and PIVH + sepsis), and one control group. The summary version of the Dubowitz Method was used as a neurological screening for the risk in preterm infants. The analysis was performed according to scores with deviation in these items and compared to the expected normal score. Data obtained were compared using the summary score and the full version of the test. RESULTS: The frequency of abnormal scores was: 40% in the group with PIVH + sepsis, 10% in the group only with PIVH, 15% in the control group. CONCLUSION: The PIVH does not seem to be a significant factor for the presence of items with deviation in the summary version of Dubowitz Method. The presence of PIVH in more severe stages was associated with the presence of sepsis. The preterm infants with PIVH with sepsis obtained worse neurological performance in the test.

The Necessity of the Simple Tests for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients without Neuropathic Symptoms in Clinical Practice

Early recognition and appropriate management of diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy (DPNP) is important. We evaluated the necessity of simple, non-invasive tests for DPNP detection in clinical practice. We enrolled 136 randomly-chosen patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and examined them with the 10-g Semmes-Weinstein monofilament examination, the 128-Hz tuning-fork, ankle-reflex, and pinprick tests; the Total Symptom Score and the 15-item self-administered questionnaire of the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument. Among 136 patients, 48 had subjective neuropathic symptoms and 88 did not. The abnormal-response rates varied depending on the methods used according to the presence of subjective neuropathic symptoms (18.8% vs. 5.7%, P < 0.05; 58.3% vs. 28.4%, P < 0.005; 81.3% vs. 54.5%, P < 0.005; 12.5% vs. 5.7%, P=0.195; 41.7% vs. 2.3%, P < 0.001; and 77.1% vs. 9.1%, P < 0.001; respectively). The largest abnormal response was derived by combining all methods. Moreover, these tests should be implemented more extensively in diabetic patients without neuropathic symptoms to detect DPNP early.

Pyramidal and Proprioceptive Dysfunctions as the Main Neurologic Features in Symptomatic Type I Chiari Malformation Patients

Objective Broader access to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increased the diagnosis of tonsillar ectopia, with most of these patients being asymptomatic. The early diagnosis and treatment of type I Chiari malformation (CM I) patients has impact on the prognosis. This study supplements information about the neurologic exam of symptomatic patients with CM I. Methods The sample was composed of 32 symptomatic patients with CM I diagnosed by a combination of tonsil herniation of more than 5 mm below the magnum foramen (observed in the sagittal T2 MRI) and at least one of the following alterations: intractable occipital headache, ataxia, upper or lower motor neuron impairment, sensitivity deficits (superficial and deep) or lower cranial nerves disorders. Results Occipital headache was the most frequent symptom (53.12%). During the physical exam, the most common dysfunctions were those from the pyramidal system (96.87%), followed by posterior cord syndrome (87.5%). Discussion In this study, patients became symptomatic around the fifth decade of life, which is compatible with previous descriptions. Patients withmore than 2 years of evolution have worse responses to treatment. Occipital headache, symptoms in the upper limbs, gait and proprioceptive disorders are common findings in patients with CM I. Conclusion Deep tendinous reflexes and proprioception disorders were the main neurologic features found in symptomatic CM I patients.

Postoperative surveillance in neurosurgical patients - usefulness of neurological assessment scores and bispectral index / Monitoramento de pacientes neurocirúrgicos no pós-operatório - utilidade dos escores de avaliação neurológica e do índice bispectral

Abstract Background and objectives: We examined the additive effect of the Ramsay scale, Canadian Neurological Scale (CNS), Nursing Delirium Screening Scale (Nu-DESC), and Bispectral Index (BIS) to see whether along with the assessment of pupils and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) it improved early detection of postoperative neurological complications. Methods: We designed a prospective observational study of two elective neurosurgery groups of patients: craniotomies (CG) and non-craniotomies (NCG). We analyze the concordance and the odds ratio (OR) of altered neurological scales and BIS in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) for postoperative neurological complications. We compared the isolated assessment of pupils and GCS (pupils-GCS) with all the neurologic assessment scales and BIS (scales-BIS). Results: In the CG (n = 70), 16 patients (22.9%) had neurological complications in PACU. The scales-BIS registered more alterations than the pupils-GCS (31.4% vs. 20%; p < 0.001), were more sensitive (94% vs. 50%) and allowed a more precise estimate for neurological complications in PACU (p = 0.002; OR = 7.15, 95% CI = 2.1-24.7 vs. p = 0.002; OR = 9.5, 95% CI = 2.3-39.4). In the NCG (n = 46), there were no neurological complications in PACU. The scales-BIS showed alterations in 18 cases (39.1%) versus 1 (2.2%) with the pupils-GCS (p < 0.001). Altered CNS on PACU admission increased the risk of neurological complications in the ward (p = 0.048; OR = 7.28, 95% CI = 1.021-52.006). Conclusions: Applied together, the assessment of pupils, GCS, Ramsay scale, CNS, Nu-DESC and BIS improved early detection of postoperative neurological complications in PACU after elective craniotomies.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Avaliamos o efeito aditivo da escala de Ramsay, Escala Neurológica Canadense (CNS), Escala da Enfermagem de Triagem de Delírio (Nu-DESC) e Índice Bispectral (BIS) para observar se, juntamente com a avaliação das pupilas e da Escala de Coma de Glasgow (GCS), melhorava a detecção precoce de complicações neurológicas no pós-operatório. Métodos: Projetamos um estudo observacional, prospectivo, de dois grupos de pacientes submetidos à neurocirurgia eletiva: craniotomia (Grupo C) e não craniotomia (Grupo NC). Analisamos a concordância e a razão de chance (OR) de alterações nas escalas neurológicas e no BIS na sala de recuperação pós-anestesia (SRPA) para complicações neurológicas no pós-operatório. Comparamos a avaliação isolada das pupilas e da GCS (pupilas-GCS) com todas as escalas de avaliação neurológica e o BIS (escalas-BIS). Resultados: No Grupo C (n = 70), 16 pacientes (22,9%) apresentaram complicações neurológicas na SRPA. As escalas-BIS registraram mais alterações do que as pupilas-GCS (31,4% vs. 20%; p < 0,001), foram mais sensíveis (94% vs. 50%) e permitiram uma estimativa mais precisa das complicações neurológicas na SRPA (p = 0,002; OR = 7,15, IC 95% = 2,1-24.7 vs. p = 0,002; OR = 9,5, IC 95% = 2,3-39,4). No grupo NC (n = 46) não houve complicações neurológicas na SRPA. As escalas-BIS mostraram alterações em 18 casos (39,1%) versus um caso (2,2%) com as pupilas-GCS (p < 0,001). Alteração na CNS na admissão à SRPA aumentou o risco de complicações neurológicas na enfermaria (p = 0,048; OR = 7,28, IC 95% = 1,021-52,006). Conclusões: Aplicados em conjunto, avaliação das pupilas, GCS, escala de Ramsay, CNS, Nu-DESC e BIS melhoraram a detecção precoce de complicações neurológicas no pós-operatório na SRPA após craniotomias eletivas.

Unilateral Ptosis with Bilateral Incomplete Ophthalmoplegia as the Initial Presentation in Metastatic Cancer / 이화의대지

Orbital metastases are rare and predominantly unilateral occurrences. Bilateral metastases affecting the extraocular muscles are extremely rare. A few case reports of bilateral metastases to extraocular muscles described binocular diplopia with conspicuous bilateral external ophthalmoplegia as an initial symptom. We report a case in which unilateral ptosis was an initial symptom and bilateral incomplete ophthalmoplegia was found on initial neurologic examination in invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast. The patient had hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, and so was treated by hormonal therapies and closely monitored. The presence of a secondary orbital lesion presents many difficulties of differential diagnosis and treatment. A thorough neurologic examination to detect ocular manifestations is most important for localization and broad differential diagnosis including mechanical orbital metastatic lesion.

Association between neurological injury and the severity of oropharyngeal dysphagia after stroke

ABSTRACT Purpose To associate the degree of biomechanical impairment in the swallowing process with the severity (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale – NIHSS) and type of neurological injury in patients post stroke. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted with 42 patients (22 females), aged 65.7 years on average diagnosed with stroke. All patients underwent clinical neurological evaluation and application of the NIHSS in the first 48 hours after stroke. The swallowing function was evaluated using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and the Protocol for the Investigation of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Adults. The Fisher’s Exact Probability Test was used to assess the correlation between the degree of swallowing impairment and the severity (NIHSS score) and type of stroke. The study results were statistically analyzed at 5% significance level (p≤0.05). Results 92.9% of the patients presented ischemic stroke; 59.5% presented impairment of the anterior cerebral circulation. Statistically significant correlation was found between the neurological scale (NIHSS) scores and the swallowing impairment scale (p=0.016). Conclusion An association between stroke severity and oropharyngeal dysphagia severity was observed. A high proportion of patients with ischemic stroke with circulation affected in the anterior cerebral region presented severe oropharyngeal dysphagia. No statistically significant correlation was observed between the FOIS scale and stroke severity.