Mortalidad intrahospitalaria de pacientes con COVID-19 complicados con neumonías bacterianas en asistencia respiratoria mecánica en Cuidados Intensivos de Adultos en un Hospital del Paraguay / In-hospital mortality of patients with COVID-19 complicated by bacterial pneumonia on mechanical ventilation in Adult Intensive Care in a Hospital in Paraguay

Introducción: los pacientes con COVID-19 ingresan en mayor proporción a asistencia respiratoria mecánica, aumentando: el riesgo de neumonía asociada a ventilador (NAV) las tasas de mortalidad, los días de permanencia en las unidades de terapia intensiva (UCI) y los costos sanitarios. Objetivo: determinar la Mortalidad intrahospitalaria de pacientes con COVID-19 complicados con neumonías bacterianas en asistencia respiratoria mecánica en Cuidados Intensivos de Adultos en un Hospital del Paraguay durante los años 2020 a 2021. Metodología: estudio analítico de tipo cohorte retrospectiva. Se registraron variables demográficas, comorbilidades, puntajes en scores de gravedad como el APACHE II al ingreso, la cifra más baja de oxigenación durante la internación expresado por la PaO2 / FIO2, días de ventilación, colocación en decúbito prono, traqueotomía, medidas terapéuticas farmacológicas y no farmacológicas, días de internación, así como las complicaciones y la mortalidad. Resultados: fueron incluidos 214 pacientes, 135 ingresaron a asistencia respiratoria mecánica (ARM) de los cuales 58 (42,9 %) desarrollaron NAV, con edad mediana de 52 años (40-60). Los microorganismos de NAV fueron cocos Gram negativos en 98,3 %, incluyendo Acinetobacter baumanii en 46,5 %, Klebsiella pneumoniae en 22,8 %, Pseudomona aeruginosa en 15,5 % y 5,2 % Stenotrophomona maltofilia. La mortalidad intrahospitalaria fue del 44,8 %. Los menores de 50 años tienen una sobrevida mayor que los mayores (34 días vs 22 días, con p de 0,026). Conclusión: la mortalidad intrahospitalaria fue del 44,8 %. La edad fue un factor de riesgo independiente para la mortalidad en pacientes con NAV, por lo que los profesionales de la salud deben estar atentos a la posibilidad de NAV en pacientes que requieren asistencia respiratoria mecánica, especialmente en pacientes mayores de 50 años.

Introduction: patients with COVID-19 are more likely to require mechanical ventilation, which increases the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), mortality rates, length of stay in intensive care units (ICUs), and healthcare costs. Objective: to determine the in-hospital mortality of patients with COVID-19 complicated by bacterial pneumonia on mechanical ventilation in Adult Intensive Care in a Hospital in Paraguay during the years 2020 to 2021. Methodology: this is a retrospective cohort analytical study. Demographic variables, comorbidities, severity scores such as APACHE II on admission, the worst oxygenation during hospitalization expressed by PaO2/FiO2, days of ventilation, prone position, tracheostomy, pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic measures, days of hospitalization, as well as complications and mortality were recorded. Results: a total of 214 patients were included, 135 were admitted to mechanical ventilation (MRA), of which 58 (42.9%) developed VAP, with a median age of 52 years (40-60). VAP microorganisms were Gram-negative cocci in 98.3%, including Acinetobacter baumanii in 46.5%, Klebsiella pneumoniae in 22.8%, Pseudomona aeruginosa in 15.5%, and Stenotrophomona maltophilia in 5.2%. In-hospital mortality was 44.8%. Those under 50 years of age have a longer survival than those older (34 days vs. 22 days, with p of 0.026). Conclusion: the overall mortality rate was 44.8%. Age was an independent risk factor for mortality in patients with VAP, so healthcare professionals should be aware of the possibility of VAP in patients who require mechanical ventilation, especially in patients over 50 years of age.

Long-term outcomes for epidemic viral pneumonia survivors after discharge from the intensive care unit: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Objective To review the long-term outcomes (functional status and psychological sequelae) of survivors of critical illnesses due to epidemic viral pneumonia before the COVID-19 pandemic and to establish a benchmark for comparison of the COVID-19 long-term outcomes. Methods This systematic review of clinical studies reported the long-term outcomes in adults admitted to intensive care units who were diagnosed with viral epidemic pneumonia. An electronic search was performed using databases: MEDLINE®, Web of Science™, LILACS/IBECS, and EMBASE. Additionally, complementary searches were conducted on the reference lists of eligible studies. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The results were grouped into tables and textual descriptions. Results The final analysis included 15 studies from a total of 243 studies. This review included 771 patients with Influenza A, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. It analyzed the quality of life, functionality, lung function, mortality, rate of return to work, rehospitalization, and psychiatric symptoms. The follow-up periods ranged from 1 to 144 months. We found that the quality of life, functional capacity, and pulmonary function were below expected standards. Conclusion This review revealed great heterogeneity between studies attributed to different scales, follow-up time points, and methodologies. However, this systematic review identified negative long-term effects on patient outcomes. Given the possibility of future pandemics, it is essential to identify the long-term effects of viral pneumonia outbreaks. This review was not funded. Prospero database registration: (www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero) under registration ID CRD42021190296.

A Saúde Bucal e a Prevenção da Pneumonia na UTI: Revisão Literatura / Bucal Health and Prevention of Pneumonia in the ICU: Literature Review / Salud Bucodental y Neumonía en la UCI: Revisión Bibliográfica

Objetivo: Analisar os fatores que interferem na saúde bucal na prevenção da pneumonia, cujos procedimentos metodológicos se fundamentaram a partir da literatura na modalidade integrativa. Método: Estudo do tipo Revisão de literatura nas bases de dados Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Base de dados de Enfermagem (BDENF), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELo). Resultados:Foram encontrados resultados mais relevantes que apesar dos profissionais de enfermagem afirmarem que possuem conhecimento suficiente sobre como realizar a higiene oral em pacientes, a aplicação do protocolo adequado diminui drasticamente nos casos de pneumonia associado a ventilação mecânica. Conclusão: Conclui-se que os protocolos de atividades voltadas para assistência à saúde dos pacientes com pneumonia precisam ser intensificados, sobretudo pelos profissionais de enfermagem

Objective: To analyze the factors that interfere with oralhealth in the prevention of pneumonia, whose methodological procedures were based on the literature in the integrative modality. Method:Literature review study in the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences databases (LILACS), Nursing Database (BDENF), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELo). Results:More relevant results were found that although nursing professionals claim to have sufficient knowledge about how to perform oralhygiene in patients, the application of the appropriate protocol drastically decreases in cases of pneumonia associated with mechanical ventilation. Conclusion:It is concluded that the protocols of activities aimed at health care for patients with pneumonia need to be intensified, especially by nursing professionals.

Objetivo: Analizar los factores que interfieren en la salud bucal en la prevención de la neumonía, cuyos procedimientos metodológicos se basaron en la literatura en la modalidad integrativa. Método:Revisión de la literatura en las bases de datos de Ciencias de la Salud de América Latina y el Caribe (LILACS), Base de Datos de Enfermería (BDENF), Sistema de Análisis y Recuperación de Literatura Médica en Línea (MEDLINE), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELo). Resultados: Se encontraron resultados más relevantes que aunque los profesionales de enfermería afirman tener conocimientos suficientes sobre cómo realizar la higiene bucal en los pacientes, la aplicación del protocolo adecuado disminuye drásticamente en los casos de neumonía asociada al ventilador. Conclusión:Se concluye que los protocolos de actividades dirigidas al cuidado de la salud de pacientes con neumonía necesitan ser intensificados, especialmente por los profesionales de enfermería

Instrumento multiprofissional de rastreio para risco de broncoaspiração em ambiente hospitalar à população idosa: evidências de validade baseada nos processos de resposta / Multi-professional screening instrument for risk of broncho-aspiration in a hospital environment for the elderly population: validity evidence based on response processes

RESUMO Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi validar, com base nos processos de resposta, o Instrumento Multiprofissional de Rastreio para o Risco de Broncoaspiração em Ambiente Hospitalar, direcionado à população idosa. Método O instrumento foi aplicado por juízes em pacientes distintos e selecionados de forma aleatória. Após a aplicação, os juízes foram entrevistados para que fosse possível verificar a impressão deles quanto à relevância dos itens e quanto a interpretação sobre o conteúdo escrito, bem como a questões gramaticais e semânticas. Foram consideradas sugestões de acréscimo de alternativas de perguntas e de respostas, além de propostas de adequação de questões que compunham o instrumento. As reações não verbais, tais como expressões faciais que sugeriram dúvidas ou hesitações, por parte dos juízes, em relação ao instrumento, também foram analisadas. Resultados A concordância dos juízes em relação a cada item do dispositivo foi calculada pelo Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC), e pelo Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (CCI), sendo que seus resultados demonstraram alto nível de concordância. Através das sugestões dos juízes, elaborou-se uma nova versão do Instrumento Multiprofissional de Rastreio para o Risco de Broncoaspiração em Ambiente Hospitalar à população idosa. Conclusão Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que a validade do Instrumento Multiprofissional para Rastreio do Risco de Broncoaspiração em Ambiente Hospitalar junto à população idosa, baseada nos processos de respostas, foi alcançada.

ABSTRACT Purpose The objective of this study was to validate the Multiprofessional Screening Instrument for Broncho-aspiration Risk in Hospital Environment, which is aimed at the elderly population, based on response processes. Methods Judges applied the instrument to different patients and randomly selected. After the application, the judges were interviewed so that it was possible to verify their impression regarding the relevance of the items about their interpretation of the written content, as well as grammatical and semantic issues. Suggestions for adding alternative questions and answers were considered, as well as proposals for adapting the questions that made up the instrument. Non-verbal reactions, such as facial expressions that suggested doubts or hesitations, by the judges concerning the instrument were also analyzed. Results The agreement of the judges concerning each item of the device was calculated by the Content Validity Index (CVI) and by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), and their results showed a high level of agreement. Through the suggestions of the judges, a new version of the Multi-professional Screening Instrument for the Risk of Broncho-aspiration in a Hospital Environment in the Elderly was elaborated. Conclusion The results obtained showed that the validity of the Multi-professional Instrument for Screening the Risk of Broncho-aspiration in the Hospital Environment with the elderly population, based on the response processes, was achieved and makes it a promising device to assist professionals in hospital care for the elderly.

Clinical significance of serum microRNA-146a and inflammatory factors in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia after azithromycin treatment

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of serum microRNA-146a and pro-inflammatory factors in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia after azithromycin treatment. microRNA-146a is known to regulate inflammatory responses, and excessive inflammation is a primary characteristic of MPP. Methods Children with MPP received conventional symptomatic therapy along with intravenous administration of azithromycin for one week. Serum levels of microRNA-146a and pro-inflammatory factors were measured using RT-qPCR and ELISA kits, respectively. The correlation between microRNA-146a and pro-inflammatory factors was analyzed by the Pearson method. Pulmonary function indexes were assessed using a pulmonary function analyzer, and their correlation with microRNA-146a and pro-inflammatory factors after treatment was evaluated. Children with MPP were divided into effective and ineffective treatment groups, and the clinical significance of microRNA-146a and pro-inflammatory factors was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves and logistic multivariate regression analysis. Results Serum microRNA-146a was downregulated in children with MPP but upregulated after azithromycin treatment, contrasting with the trend observed for pro-inflammatory factors. MicroRNA-146a showed a negative correlation with pro-inflammatory cytokines. Pulmonary function parameters were initially reduced in children with MPP, but increased after treatment, showing positive/inverse associations with microRNA-146a and pro-inflammatory factors. Higher microRNA-146a and lower pro-inflammatory factors predicted better efficacy of azithromycin treatment. MicroRNA-146a, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) were identified as independent factors influencing treatment efficacy. Conclusion Azithromycin treatment in children with MPP upregulates microRNA-146a, downregulates pro-inflammatory factors, and effectively improves pulmonary function.

Clinical outcomes before and after videofluoroscopic swallow study in children 24 months of age or younger / Desfechos clínicos antes e depois da videofluoroscopia da deglutição em crianças com 24 meses de idade ou menos

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the combined impact of videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) and therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions on clinical outcomes in children with oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD). Methods: This was an uncontrolled longitudinal analytical study in which OPD patients were evaluated before and after VFSS. Children ≤ 24 months of age diagnosed with OPD in a clinical setting and undergoing VFSS for investigation and management of OPD were included in the study. The study participants received therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions after having undergone VFSS, being followed at an outpatient clinic for pediatric dysphagia in order to monitor feeding and swallowing difficulties. Respiratory and feeding outcomes were compared before and after VFSS. Results: Penetration/aspiration events were observed in 61% of the VFSSs (n = 72), and therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions were recommended for 97% of the study participants. After the VFSS, there was a reduction in the odds of receiving antibiotic therapy (OR = 0.007) and in the duration of antibiotic therapy (p = 0.014), as well as in the odds of being admitted to hospital (p = 0.024) and in the length of hospital stay (p = 0.025). A combination of oral and enteral feeding became more common than oral or enteral feeding alone (p = 0.002). Conclusions: A high proportion of participants exhibited penetration/aspiration on VFSS. Therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions following a VFSS appear to be associated with reduced respiratory morbidity in this population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto conjunto da videofluoroscopia da deglutição (VFD) e intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição nos desfechos clínicos em crianças com disfagia orofaríngea (DOF). Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo analítico longitudinal não controlado em que pacientes com DOF foram avaliados antes e depois da VFD. Foram incluídas no estudo crianças com idade ≤ 24 meses e diagnóstico clínico de DOF, submetidas à VFD para a investigação e manejo da DOF. Os participantes do estudo receberam intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição após terem sido submetidos à VFD, sendo então acompanhados em um ambulatório de disfagia pediátrica para o monitoramento das dificuldades de alimentação e deglutição. Os desfechos respiratórios e alimentares foram comparados antes e depois da VFD. Resultados: Eventos de penetração/aspiração foram observados em 61% das VFD (n = 72), e intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição foram recomendadas a 97% dos participantes do estudo. Após a VFD, houve uma redução das chances de receber antibioticoterapia (OR = 0,007) e da duração da antibioticoterapia (p = 0,014), bem como das chances de internação hospitalar (p = 0,024) e do tempo de internação (p = 0,025). A alimentação por via oral e enteral em conjunto tornou-se mais comum do que a alimentação exclusivamente por via oral ou enteral (p = 0,002). Conclusões: Houve alta proporção de crianças que apresentaram penetração/aspiração na VFD. As intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição após a VFD parecem estar associadas à redução da morbidade respiratória nessa população.

Anti-infection treatment and pharmaceutical care for a patient with severe pneumonia caused by Chlamydia psittaci / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To provide ideas and reference for the anti-infection treatment and pharmaceutical care for severe pneumonia caused by Chlamydia psittaci. METHODS Clinical pharmacists participated in the whole process of the treatment for a patient with C. psittaci-induced severe pneumonia. According to the patient’s medical history， clinical symptoms and test results， clinical pharmacists assisted the physician to dynamically adjust the anti-infective scheme； for C. psittaci infection， the patient was treated with tigecycline combined with azithromycin successively， and other infection therapy plans were dynamically adjusted according to the results of pathogen examination. During the treatment， the patient suffered from suspicious adverse drug reactions such as prolonged QTc interval， elevated lipase and amylase； the clinical pharmacists conducted pharmaceutical care and put forward reasonable suggestions. RESULTS The physician adopted the pharmacists’ suggestion， and the patient was discharged after treatment. CONCLUSIONS For the treatment of severe pneumonia caused by C. psittaci， the characteristics of patients， drugs and pathogens should be taken into account to develop individualized anti-infective treatment. Tetracyclines and macrolides have a definite effect on C. psittaci infection， but attention should be paid to the possible ADR caused by drugs in clinical application.

Seasonal and epidemiological characteristics of community-acquired pneumonia in Chuzhou in 2010 - 2022 / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To analyze the seasonal and epidemiological characteristics of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in Chuzhou from 2010 to 2022. Methods The epidemiological data of CAP in Chuzhou from 2010 to 2022 were obtained from the center for diseases control and prevention of Chuzhou City, Anhui Province. After inclusion and exclusion, a total of 1 053 cases were enrolled. General data were collected. Then the characteristics of CAP patients in terms of gender, age, regional and seasonal distribution and pathogenic bacteria distribution were analyzed. Results A total of 316 patients with CAP, with a prevalence rate of 30.01%, including 152 males (48.10%) and 164 females (51.90%). Regarding age, 86 cases (27.22%) at 19-40 years, 106 cases (33.54%) at 41-60 years, and 124 cases (39.24%) at >60 years, suggesting a statistical difference in the CAP detection rate among different genders and ages (P<0.05). Seasonally, 118 cases (37.34%) were detected in spring, 13 cases (4.11%) in summer, 49 cases (15.51%) in autumn, and 136 cases (43.04%) in winter, with the highest CAP detection rate in winter, followed by spring. Pathogenic bacteria were positive in 198 of 316 patients, with a detection rate of 62.66%. A total of 125 strains of pathogenic bacteria were detected in sputum culture, of which 138 cases were Gram-negative, mainly Escherichia coli (24.24%, 48/198), and 60 cases were Gram-positive, mainly Streptococcus pneumoniae (14.14%, 28/198). Among 198 patients positive for pathogen detection, 41 cases were detected in spring, 37 cases in summer, 56 cases in autumn and 64 cases in winter. The drug sensitivity results showed that Escherichia coli had the highest resistance rate to ampicillin and cefazolin, and was sensitive to imipenem and other antibiotics; Streptococcus pneumoniae has the highest resistance rate to penicillin and erythromycin, and is sensitive to vancomycin. Conclusion CAP is quite common in elderly population in Chuzhou from 2010 to 2022, with a high prevalence rate in spring and winter, and the prevention work of high-risk groups should be strengthened.

Clinical treatment and management of invasive fungal disease in recipients of solid organ transplantation / 器官移植

With widespread application of solid organ transplantation (SOT), the incidence of postoperative invasive fungal disease (IFD) in SOT recipients has been increased year by year. In recent years, the awareness of preventive antifungal therapy for SOT recipients has been gradually strengthened. However, the problem of fungal resistance has also emerged, leading to unsatisfactory efficacy of original standardized antifungal regimens. Drug-drug interaction and hepatorenal toxicity induced by drugs are also challenges facing clinicians. In this article, the characteristics of drug-drug interaction and hepatorenal toxicity among triazole, echinocandin and polyene antifungal drugs and immunosuppressants were reviewed, and postoperative preventive strategies for IFD in different types of SOT recipients and treatment strategies for IFD caused by infection of different pathogens were summarized, aiming to provide reference for physicians in organ transplantation and related disciplines.

Íleo biliar complicado con infección con SARS-CoV-2. Reporte de caso

Introducción: El Íleo biliar (IB) es una obstrucción intestinal mecánica muy poco frecuente, del 1 al 4 % de todas las obstrucciones intestinales, y es más común en pacientes de edad avanzada. Se produce a través de una fístula bilioentérica en el intestino delgado, sobre todo en el íleon distal. Luego de tener un enfoque diagnóstico mediante imagenología, en su gran mayoría, se opta por el tratamiento quirúrgico para eliminar el o los cálculos impactados. El éxito de esta intervención depende en gran medida del tamaño del cálculo biliar, de la ubicación de la obstrucción intestinal y comorbilidades preexistentes. Caso clínico: Mujer de 78 años con cuadro clínico de obstrucción intestinal, emesis de contenido fecaloide y sintomática respiratoria; se evidenció una masa concéntrica a nivel de íleon distal y proceso neumónico concomitante por tomografía toracoabdominal. Se realizó laparotomía exploratoria con enterolitotomía, extracción de cálculo y anastomosis íleo-ileal y fue trasladada a la UCI en donde presentó falla ventilatoria y requerimiento de ventilación mecánica; se confirmó infección viral por SARS-CoV-2 mediante RT - PCR. Discusión: El IB es una obstrucción intestinal que ocurre con mayor frecuencia en pacientes de edad avanzada. Se habla de la fisiopatología y mecanismo de producción de la fístula entérica y se presentan opciones diagnósticas, terapéuticas y quirúrgicas para dirigir el manejo clínico más apropiado. Conclusión: El IB es difícil de diagnosticar. Debido a su baja incidencia, no existe un consenso que paute el manejo a seguir en los pacientes con diagnóstico de IB. Aunque el tratamiento estándar es la intervención quirúrgica, hay diversas opiniones en cuanto al tipo de cirugía a realizar.

Introduction: Biliary ileus (BI) is a very rare mechanical intestinal obstruction, responsible for 1-4% of all intestinal obstructions and more frequent in elderly patients. It occurs through a bilioenteric fistula in the small bowel, mainly in the distal ileum. After a diagnostic imaging approach, the vast majority opt for surgical treatment to remove the impacted stone or stones. The success of this intervention depends largely on the size of the stone, the location of the bowel obstruction and pre-existing comorbidities. Case report: 78-year-old woman with clinical symptoms of intestinal obstruction, fecaloid emesis, respiratory symptoms, concentric mass at the level of the distal ileum and concomitant pneumonic process in the thoraco-abdominal CT scan. Exploratory laparotomy was performed, with total lithotomy, extraction of the calculus and ileo-ileal anastomosis, and she was transferred to the ICU, where she presented ventilatory failure and required mechanical ventilation. SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed with RT-PCR. Discussion: IB is an intestinal obstruction that occurs more frequently in elderly patients. The pathophysiology and the mechanism of production of enteric fistula are discussed and diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical options are presented to guide the most appropriate clinical management. Conclusion: Enteric fistula is difficult to diagnose. Due to its low incidence, there is no consensus on the management of patients diagnosed with IB. Although the standard treatment is surgical intervention, there are divergent opinions as to the type of surgery to be performed.

Neumonía adquirida en la comunidad: epidemiología, diagnóstico, escalas pronósticas de gravedad y nuevas opciones terapéuticas / Community-acquired pneumonia: Epidemiology, diagnosis, prognostic severity scales, and new therapeutic options

Este artículo de revisión narrativa tiene como objetivo explorar el conocimiento actual disponible basado en datos científicos respeto a la definición, la epidemiología, los criterios diagnósticos, la microbiología, el tratamiento y la prevención de la neumonía grave adquirida en la comunidad) en individuos adultos inmunocompetentes. En la actualidad, pese a los grandes avances científicos obtenidos en la evaluación diagnóstica, el manejo clínico, la terapia antimicrobiana y la prevención, la neumonía grave adquirida en la comunidad sigue siendo una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad, además de producir un gran impacto económico con la elevación de los costes sanitarios en todo el mundo. Esta patología es considerada una de las principales causas de sepsis/choque séptico, con una tasa de mortalidad global extremadamente elevada, lo que justifica todo el esfuerzo en el diagnóstico precoz, el manejo en un ambiente adecuado y el inicio temprano y apropiado de la terapia antimicrobiana. La inclusión de biomarcadores (aislados o en combinación) asociada a la aplicación de los criterios diagnósticos y escalas pronósticas de gravedad en la práctica clínica, sirven para identificar a los pacientes con neumonía adquirida en la comunidad grave, definir el ingreso inmediato en la unidad de cuidados intensivos y, de esta forma, minimizar los resultados negativos de esta grave patología.

his narrative review article explores the current scientific knowledge on the definition, epidemiology, diagnostic criteria, microbiology, treatment, and prevention of severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP) in immunocompetent adults. At present, despite major scientific advances in diagnostic evaluation, clinical management, antimicrobial therapy, and prevention, severe community-acquired pneumonia remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, as well as having a major economic impact in terms of increased healthcare expenditure worldwide. This pathology is considered one of the leading causes of sepsis/septic shock, with an extremely high overall mortality rate, which justifies all the effort in early diagnosis, proper management, and prompt initiation of antimicrobial therapy. Including biomarkers (isolated or in combination) associated with applying diagnostic criteria and prognostic severity scales in clinical practice helps identify patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia, defines immediate admission to the intensive care unit, and, thus, minimizes the adverse outcomes of this serious pathology.

Características microbiológicas de la enfermedad neumocócica en niños menores de 5 años de Santiago de Cuba / Microbiologic characteristics of the pneumococcus disease in children under 5 years from Santiago de Cuba i: en

Introducción: La infección por Streptococcus pneumoniae constituye una causa importante de morbimortalidad en el mundo, sobre todo en niños menores de 5 años, en los que ocasiona de 1 a 2 millones de muertes anuales. Objetivo: Determinar la presencia de S. pneumoniae en muestras clínicas obtenidas en niños. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal en niños menores de 5 años de edad con diagnóstico clínico de enfermedad neumocócica invasiva, asistidos en dos hospitales pediátricos de Santiago de Cuba durante el periodo 2014-2018. De las 1466 muestras clínicas tomadas y procesadas, en 131 fue aislado el agente patógeno; estas correspondieron a 59 pacientes con formas clínicas de la infección y 72 portadores. Para el procesamiento estadístico de la información se utilizaron las frecuencias absoluta y relativa como medidas de resumen. Resultados: En general, la positividad por S. pneumoniae fue de 8,9 %, con mayores frecuencias de aislamiento en las muestras de líquido cefalorraquídeo (81,8 %), líquido pleural (47,1 %) y exudado ótico (21,9 %), que asimismo coincidieron con los porcentajes más elevados de neumonía (61,0), otitis media aguda (23,7) y meningitis (15,3), como formas clínicas de la enfermedad neumocócica, que aquejó principalmente a niños de 1 año de edad, seguidos de los mayores de 2 años. De igual modo, se identificaron 9 serotipos de S. pneumoniae, con predominio del 19A (39,0 %), el 14 (25,4 %) y el 6A (11,9 %). En los pacientes que portaban la bacteria en la nasofaringe se identificaron 8 tipos serológicos, predominantemente el 19A y el 14. Por último, se halló una alta resistencia microbiana a la eritromicina y a la combinación trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este estudio proporcionaron un referente científico antes de la introducción de la vacuna antineumocócica cubana, lo que permitirá evaluar su impacto en la incidencia de dicha enfermedad.

Introduction: The infection due to Streptococcus pneumoniae constitutes an important cause of morbimortality in the world, mainly in children under 5 years, that causes from 1 to 2 million annual deaths. Objective: To determine the presence of S. pneumoniae in clinical samples obtained in children. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in children under 5 years with clinical diagnosis of invasive pneumococcus disease, assisted in two children hospitals from Santiago de Cuba during the period 2014-2018. Of the 1466 clinical samples taken and processed, in 131 the pathogen agent was isolated; these corresponded to 59 patients with clinical forms of the infection and 72 carriers of the disease. For the statistical processing of the information the absolute and relative frequencies were used as summary measures. Results: In general the positivity for S. pneumoniae was of 8.9 %, with more isolation frequencies in the samples of cerebrospinal fluid (81.8 %), pleural fluid (47.1 %) and otic exudate (21.9 %) that also coincided with the highest percentages of pneumonia (61.0), acute otitis media (23.7) and meningitis (15.3), as clinical forms of the neumococcus disease that mainly affected 1 year children, followed by those over 2 years. In a same way, 9 serotypes of S. pneumoniae were identified, with prevalence of the 19A (39.0 %), and 14 (25.4 %) and the 6A (11.9 %). In the nasopharyngeal carriers 8 serotypes were identified, of which the 19A and 14 prevailed. Lastly, a high microbian resistance to erythromycin and the combination trimethoprim-sulfametoxazole was found. Conclusions: The results of this study provided a scientific referent before the introduction of the Cuban antipneumococcus vaccine that will allow to evaluate its impact in the incidence of this disease.

Neumonía por Pneumocystis jirovecii asociada a hemorragia alveolar difusa en un paciente con trasplante renal

La neumonía por Pneumocystis jirovecii es una enfermedad fúngica oportunista descrita principalmente en pacientes con VIH, sin embargo, tras la introducción de la TARV, ha incrementado su incidencia en pacientes con inmunosupresión no asociada a VIH, como neoplasias hematológicas y trasplantes de órganos sólidos. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 17 años, receptor de un trasplante renal, con inmunosupresión prolongada con corticoesteroides, con cuadro clínico de tos, disnea y fiebre. La TC mostró micronódulos pulmonares centrolobulillares y vidrio esmerilado. El LBA fue compatible con hemorragia alveolar difusa (HAD), con RPC positiva para P. jirovecii. Se descartaron otras infecciones y enfermedades autoinmunes. Recibió tratamiento con cotrimoxazol con buena evolución clínica y mejoría radiológica. Si bien las causas más frecuentes de HAD son etiologías autoinmunes como enfermedades reumatológicas o vasculitis, es prioritario descartar causas infecciosas, incluyendo P. jirovecii, ya que el tratamiento dirigido puede tener un impacto significativo en la mortalidad en este grupo de pacientes.

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is an opportunistic fungal infection, described mainly in HIV patients, however, after the introduction of ART, its presentation has increased in patients with non-HIV immunosuppression, such as hematological cancers, solid or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We report the case of a 17-year-old male, kidney transplant patient, with prolonged immunosuppression with corticoesteroids, with history of cough, dyspnea, and fever. Chest CT evidences centrilobular pulmonary micronodules with ground glass. BAL was performed compatible with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, with positive PCR for P. jirovecii. Other infections and autoimmune disease were ruled out. He received treatment with cotrimoxazole with clinical improvement of the patient, and follow up chest CT at the end of treatment showed decrease of pulmonary infiltrates. Although the most frequent causes of DAH are autoimmune etiologies such as rheumatic diseases or vasculitis, it is a priority to rule out infectious causes, including P. jirovecii, since targeted treatment could have a significant impact on mortality outcomes in this group of patients.

Síndrome hemolítico urémico secundario a Streptococcus pneumoniae. Reporte de un caso clínico

El síndrome hemolítico urémico secundario a Streptococcus pneumoniae (SHU-Sp) es una complicación poco frecuente de las enfermedades invasoras por S. pneumoniae. Presenta una alta morbimortalidad, con requerimiento de transfusiones de glóbulos rojos y plaquetas, terapia de sustitución de la función renal de inicio precoz y más prolongada, así como mayores complicaciones a largo plazo, comparado con las formas secundarias a infección entérica por Escherichia coli productora de toxina Shiga. Presentamos el caso clínico de una preescolar de dos años, previamente sana, vacunada con tres dosis de PCV13, que desarrolló una insuficiencia renal aguda, anemia hemolítica y plaquetopenia, en el contexto de una neumonía con empiema y bacteriemia por S. pneumoniae.

Streptococcus pneumoniae associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (Sp-HUS) is an uncommon complication of invasive pneumococcal infections. Patients with Sp-HUS have a higher mortality and long term morbidity than those due to HUS from Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infections (STEC-HUS). They often require more red blood cells and platelet transfusions, and early initiation of renal substitution therapy, presenting a higher rate of arterial hypertension and chronic renal disease in the long term, compared to STEC-HUS. We report a healthy 2 year-old infant, vaccinated with three doses PCV13, that developed acute renal failure, hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia in the course of a complicated pneumococcal pneumonia with empyema and bacteremia.

Factores asociados de ingreso a un hospital de referencia de tercer nivel en Panamá durante el primer año de pandemia por COVID-19

Introducción: Panamá ocupa la quinta posición en incidencia acumulada de países latinoamericanos y la cuarta posición de muertes en Centroamérica por COVID-19. Hay pocos datos en la población pediátrica panameña. Se describen las características de esta población, admitidos al Hospital Materno Infantil José Domingo De Obaldía, durante el primer año de pandemia. Objetivos: Describir factores clínicos y epidemiológicos asociados al ingreso hospitalario a salas o Unidad Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica (UCIP). Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, retrospectivo con componente analítico con edad de 1 mes a 13 años 11 meses, de pacientes hospitalizados entre 01 abril 2020 y 30 abril 2021 y diagnóstico de SARS-CoV2 mediante reacción de polimerasa en cadena, detección de antígeno o serología al ingreso o durante su hospitalización. Los datos fueron analizados con IBM SPSS versión 25.0. Resultados: 84 pacientes fueron evaluados, 71 (85%) cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Los factores de riesgo asociados a ingreso a UCIP: indígena 1,86 (3,08-1,13), referido de Bocas del Toro 9,33(43,43-2), desnutrición 5,6 (30,53-1,02), enfermedad neurológica 7,46 (36,94-1,5), radiografía de tórax con infiltrado intersticial y consolidación 14,93 (123,9-1,8), shock 1,32 (1,58-1,1), alteración del estado de alerta 22,4 (172-2,91), hipoxia 6,22 (23,13-1,67) y disnea 2,61 (5,7-1,19). La mortalidad fue 4%, asociada a compromiso respiratorio y comorbilidades. Conclusiones: Ser indígena, tener comorbilidades, radiografía de tórax (infiltrados intersticiales y consolidados) predominaron en los ingresos a la UCIP.

Background: Panama occupies the fifth position in cumulative incidence of Latin American countries and the fourth position in deaths in Central America from COVID-19. There are few data in the Panamanian pediatric population. The characteristics of this population, admitted to the José Domingo De Obaldia Maternal and Child Hospital, during the first year of the pandemic, are described. Aim: To describe clinical and epidemiological factors associated with hospital admission to wards or Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study with an analytical component with an age range of 1 month to 13 years 11 months, patients hospitalized between April 1,2020 to April 30, 2021 and diagnosis of SARS-CoV2 by polymerase chain reaction, antigen detection, or serology. upon admission or during hospitalization. Data were analyzed with IBM SPSS version 25.0. Results: 84 patients were included, 71 (85%) met the inclusion criteria. Risk factors associated with admission to the PICU: indigenous 1.86 (3.08-1.13), referred from Bocas del Toro 9.33 (43.43-2), malnutrition 5.6 (30.53-1.02), neurological disease 7.46 (36.94-1.5), chest X-ray with interstitial infiltrate and consolidation 14.93 (123.9-1.8), shock 1.32 (1.58-1.1), altered alertness 22.4 (172-2.91), hypoxia 6.22 (23.13-1.67) and dyspnea 2.61 (5.7-1.19). Mortality was 4%, associated with respiratory compromise and comorbidities. Conclusions: Being indigenous, having comorbidities, chest X-ray (interstitial and consolidated infiltrates) predominated in admissions to the PICU.

Neumonía bacteriana en niños en Ecuador: una mirada al impacto de las vacunas

Introducción: La neumonía adquirida en la comunidad es una de las enfermedades con mayor prevalencia en la comunidad pediátrica en nuestro país. De las diferentes etiologías que pueden causarlas, la neumonía ocasionada por Streptococcus pneumoniae puede ser prevenida con el uso de inmunización. Actualmente se disponen de tres tipos de vacunas antineumocócicas conjugadas autorizadas de uso pediátrico de forma sistemática. Objetivo: Identificar la prevalencia de neumonía bacteriana en niños bajo 5 años de edad, que requirieron hospitalización comparando la vacuna neumocócica recibida: 10 valente (PCV10) versus 13 valente (PCV13). Pacientes y Métodos: Estudio de descriptivo, retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes hospitalizados bajo 5 años de edad, con diagnóstico de neumonía bacteriana mediante codificación CIE10 en un hospital de tercer nivel de la ciudad de Quito-Ecuador, durante el año 2019. Resultados: Se estudiaron 175 pacientes de los cuales 74 cumplieron con criterios clínicos de neumonía, de estos 46 recibieron PCV10 y 28 recibieron vacuna PCV13. Discusión y Conclusiones: La prevalencia de neumonía bacteriana fue mayor en los pacientes inmunizados con PCV10 lo que sugiere una relación de menor probabilidad de neumonía con el uso de la vacuna PCV13.

Background: Community-acquired pneumonia is one of the most prevalent diseases in the pediatric community in our country, of the different etiologies that can cause them, pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae can be prevented with the use of immunization. Currently there are three types of authorized pneumococcal conjugate vaccines for pediatric use in a systematic way. Aim: To identify the prevalence of bacterial pneumonia in children under 5 years of age who required hospitalization by comparing the pneumococcal vaccine received: 10 valent (PCV10) versus 13 valent (PCV13). Methods: Descriptive, retrospective study. Hospitalized patients under 5 years of age with a diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia by ICD10 coding in a third level hospital in the city of Quito - Ecuador during 2019 were included. Results: 175 patients were studied, of which 74 patients met clinical criteria for pneumonia, of these 46 received PCV10 and 28 received PCV13 vaccine. Discussion and Conclusions: The prevalence of bacterial pneumonia was higher in patients immunized with PCV10, suggesting a relationship of lower probability of pneumonia with the use of the PCV13 vaccine.

The conventional diagnosis challenge: Real-time PCR and nested PCR correlation with the scoring system for individuals at high-risk of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

Introduction. Pneumocystis jirovecii is an opportunistic fungus that affects mainly people living with HIV (CD4 cell count lower than 200 cells/ml) and other immunosuppressed patients. Since P. jirovecii does not grow on routine mycological media, diagnosis of P. jirovecii pneumonia relies on indirect evidence of its presence in respiratory samples. Objectives. To associate the results of direct immunofluorescence and two molecular methods with a score to predict P. jirovecii pneumonia in patients with AIDS. Materials and methods. A prospective study was conducted with 40 patients. A respiratory sample collected before treatment was subjected to direct immunofluorescence using the Merifluor kit, to nested PCR targeting the mitochondrial large subunit ribosomal RNA, and to the VIASURE real-time PCR kit. Results. These three techniques revealed P. jirovecii in 6, 12, and 15 samples, respectively. All positive samples by direct immunofluorescence were positive by nested PCR, and all positive samples by nested PCR amplified by real-time PCR. There was a statistically significant association between the P. jirovecii pneumonia score and the molecular methods. Two patients were early diagnosed and responded well to treatment. Conclusion. Molecular methods, especially real-time PCR, are recommended for early diagnosis of P. jirovecii pneumonia in AIDS patients.

Introducción. Pneumocystis jirovecii es un hongo oportunista que afecta principalmente a personas con HIV (recuento de CD4 menor de 200 células/ml) y a otros pacientes inmunosuprimidos. Como P. jirovecii no crece en los medios micológicos de rutina, el diagnóstico de neumonía por P. jirovecii se basa en la evidencia presente en muestras respiratorias. Objetivos. Asociar los resultados de la inmunofluorescencia directa y los de dos métodos moleculares con un puntaje para predecir la neumonía causada por P. jirovecii en pacientes con sida. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio prospectivo de 40 pacientes. Se recolectó una muestra respiratoria antes del inicio de tratamiento y se sometió a una prueba de inmunofluorescencia directa con el kit Merifluor, una PCR anidada para la amplificación de la subunidad larga del ribosoma mitocondrial y una PCR en tiempo real usando el kit VIASURE. Resultados. Estas tres técnicas evidenciaron la presencia de P. jirovecii en 6, 12 y 15 muestras, respectivamente. Todas las muestras positivas por inmunofluorescencia directa fueron positivas en la PCR anidada y todas las muestras positivas en la PCR anidada amplificaron por PCR en tiempo real. Se encontró una asociación estadística entre los valores de la neumonía causada por P. jirovecii y los métodos moleculares. Dos pacientes con diagnóstico temprano respondieron satisfactoriamente al tratamiento. Conclusión. Se recomiendan los métodos moleculares, especialmente la PCR en tiempo real, para el diagnóstico temprano de neumonía causada por P. jirovecii en pacientes con sida.

Descripción de la micobiota de los tubos endotraqueales de pacientes de unidades de cuidados intensivos en Bogotá, Colombia

Introducción. La colonización por microorganismos patógenos de los dispositivos médicos usados en las unidades de cuidados intensivos es un factor de riesgo para el aumento de infecciones asociadas con la atención en salud y, por lo tanto, al de la morbilidad y la mortalidad de los pacientes intubados. En Colombia, no se ha descrito la colonización por hongos de los tubos endotraqueales, con lo cual se podrían considerar nuevas opciones terapéuticas para el beneficio de los pacientes. Objetivo. Describir los hongos que colonizan los tubos endotraqueales de los pacientes en unidades de cuidados intensivos, junto con su perfil de sensibilidad a los antifúngicos. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, en dos centros hospitalarios durante 12 meses. Se recolectaron tubos endotraqueales de pacientes de las unidades de cuidados intensivos. Estos fueron procesados para cultivar e identificar hongos, y para establecer su perfil de sensibilidad a los antifúngicos. Resultados. Se analizaron 121 tubos endotraqueales obtenidos de 113 pacientes. De estos, el 41,32 % se encontró colonizado por los hongos Candida albicans (64,61 %), C. no-albicans (30,77 %), Cryptococcus spp. (3,08 %) o mohos (1,54 %). Todos los hongos evaluados presentaron una gran sensibilidad a los antifúngicos, con un promedio del 91 %. Conclusión. Se encontró colonización fúngica en los tubos endotraqueales de pacientes con asistencia respiratoria mecánica. El perfil de sensibilidad en estos pacientes fue favorable. Se requiere un estudio clínico para correlacionar los microorganismos colonizadores y su capacidad de generar infección.

Introduction. Medical device colonization by pathogenic microorganisms is a risk factor for increasing infections associated with health care and, consequently, the morbidity and mortality of intubated patients. In Colombia, fungal colonization of endotracheal tubes has not been described, and this information could lead to new therapeutic options for the benefit of patients. Objective. To describe the colonizing fungi of the endotracheal tubes from patients in the intensive care unit, along with its antifungal sensitivity profile. Materials and methods. We conducted a descriptive, observational study in two health centers for 12 months. Endotracheal tubes were collected from patients in intensive care units. Samples were processed for culture, fungi identification, and antifungal sensitivity profile assessment. Results. A total of 121 endotracheal tubes, obtained from 113 patients, were analyzed: 41.32 % of the tubes were colonized by Candida albicans (64.62%), C. non-albicans (30.77%), Cryptococcus spp. (3.08%) or molds (1.54%). All fungi evaluated showed a high sensitivity to antifungals, with a mean of 91%. Conclusion. Fungal colonization was found in the endotracheal tubes of patients under invasive mechanical ventilation. The antifungal sensitivity profile in these patients was favorable. A clinical study is required to find possible correlations between the colonizing microorganisms and infectivity.

Fisioterapia respiratoria en sujetos adultos cursando internación por neumonía adquirida en la comunidad. Revisión bibliográfica / Respiratory physiotherapy in adult subjects hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia. Literature review

Introducción: La neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC) es una infección respiratoria en la cual es frecuente observar la indicación de fisioterapia respiratoria (FR). Sin embargo, en la actualidad las recomendaciones respecto a su uso en NAC son controvertidas, no existiendo evidencia que respalde su uso y permita conocer su real alcance. Objetivos: Revisar la evidencia respecto al impacto de la FR en pacientes adultos que cursan internación por NAC. Resultados: 5 estudios cumplieron los criterios de inclusión de esta revisión. Las maniobras de FR incluyeron ejercicios respiratorios, drenaje postural, percusión, vibración, espirometría incentivada, resistencia espiratoria, asistencia torácica durante movimientos respiratorios, tos dirigida y presión positiva intermitente. En los estudios incluidos la FR no disminuyó la mortalidad ni mejoró los valores espirométricos en los pacientes con NAC, así como tampoco los días hasta la curación ni la estadía hospitalaria. Respecto a los costos, el uso de FR en pacientes con NAC presentó un incremento significativo de los mismos. Conclusión: No hay evidencia que respalde el uso de manera rutinaria de FR en los pacientes adultos con NAC. Consideramos que se requieren de futuras investigaciones que permitan conocer el impacto de la FR en pacientes adultos con NAC, así como establecer consensos respecto a su indicación, selección de maniobras, estandarización de técnicas, tiempos y dosificación.

Introduction: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a respiratory infection in which the indication for respiratory physiotherapy (RF) is frequently observed. However, currently the recommendations regarding its use in CAP are controversial, and there is no evidence to support its use and allow us to know its real scope. Objectives: To review the evidence regarding the impact of RF in adult patients who are hospitalized for CAP. Results: 5 studies met the inclusion criteria of this review. RF maneuvers included breathing exercises, postural drainage, percussion, vibration, incentive spirometry, expiratory resistance, chest support during respiratory movements, directed cough, and intermittent positive pressure. In the included studies, RF did not reduce mortality or improve spirometric values in patients with CAP, nor did it improve days to cure or hospital stay. Regarding costs, the use of RF in patients with CAP presented a significant increase in costs. Conclusion: There is no evidence to support the routine use of RF in adult patients with CAP. We believe that future research is required to determine the impact of RF in adult patients with CAP, as well as to establish consensus regarding its indication, selection of maneuvers, standardization of techniques, times, and dosage.

Fisioterapia respiratoria en sujetos adultos cursando internación por neumonía adquirida en la comunidad. Revisión bibliográfica

Introducción: La neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC) es una infección respiratoria en la cual es frecuente observar la indicación de fisioterapia respiratoria (FR). Sin embargo, en la actualidad las recomendaciones respecto a su uso en NAC son controvertidas, no existiendo evidencia que respalde su uso y permita conocer su real alcance. Objetivos: Revisar la evidencia respecto al impacto de la FR en pacientes adultos que cursan internación por NAC. Resultados: 5 estudios cumplieron los criterios de inclusión de esta revisión. Las maniobras de FR incluyeron ejercicios respiratorios, drenaje postural, percusión, vibración, espirometría incentivada, resistencia espiratoria, asistencia torácica durante movimientos respiratorios, tos dirigida y presión positiva intermitente. En los estudios incluidos la FR no disminuyó la mortalidad ni mejoró los valores espirométricos en los pacientes con NAC, así como tampoco los días hasta la curación ni la estadía hospitalaria. Respecto a los costos, el uso de FR en pacientes con NAC presentó un incremento significativo de los mismos. Conclusión: No hay evidencia que respalde el uso de manera rutinaria de FR en los pacientes adultos con NAC. Consideramos que se requieren de futuras investigaciones que permitan conocer el impacto de la FR en pacientes adultos con NAC, así como establecer consensos respecto a su indicación, selección de maniobras, estandarización de técnicas, tiempos y dosificación.

Introduction: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a respiratory infection in which the indication for respiratory physiotherapy (RF) is frequently observed. However, currently the recommendations regarding its use in CAP are controversial, and there is no evidence to support its use and allow us to know its real scope. Objectives: To review the evidence regarding the impact of RF in adult patients who are hospitalized for CAP. Results: 5 studies met the inclusion criteria of this review. RF maneuvers included breathing exercises, postural drainage, percussion, vibration, incentive spirometry, expiratory resistance, chest support during respiratory movements, directed cough, and intermittent positive pressure. In the included studies, RF did not reduce mortality or improve spirometric values in patients with CAP, nor did it improve days to cure or hospital stay. Regarding costs, the use of RF in patients with CAP presented a significant increase in costs. Conclusion: There is no evidence to support the routine use of RF in adult patients with CAP. We believe that future research is required to determine the impact of RF in adult patients with CAP, as well as to establish consensus regarding its indication, selection of maneuvers, standardization of techniques, times, and dosage.