Caracterización epidemiológica y clínica de pacientes con retinopatía diabética / Clinical and epidemiological characterization of diabetic retinopathy patients

Objetivo: Caracterizar los pacientes con retinopatía diabética desde el punto de vista epidemiológico y clínico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal en el Centro Oftalmológico de Santiago de Cuba, desde octubre del año 2017 hasta octubre de 2019, en una población de 42 pacientes diabéticos tipo 2. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes con tiempo de diabetes mellitus mayor de 10 años, y edades de 55 años o más (60,0 por ciento); el mayor porcentaje correspondió al color de piel negra (66,7 por ciento ); la agudeza visual mayor de 0,6 se presentó en el 49,4 por ciento de los casos; la retinopatía diabética proliferativa fue la más presentada con 55,9 por ciento. Hubo predominio, además, de los valores de hemoglobina glicosilada por encima del 7 por ciento y de la normoalbuminuria con 46,7 y 66,7 por ciento, respectivamente, en ambos grupos. Conclusiones: Los valores elevados de hemoglobina glicosilada y la normoalbuminuria se asocian, desde el punto de vista clínico, a la retinopatía diabética proliferativa(AU)

Objective: Characterize diabetic retinopathy patients from a clinical and epidemiological point of view. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted of 42 type 2 diabetic patients at Santiago de Cuba Ophthalmology Center from October 2017 to October 2019. Results: A predominance was found of patients who had had diabetes mellitus for more than 10 years and were aged 55 years or over (60.0 percent); black skin color prevailed with 66.7 percent; visual acuity above 0.6 was present in 49.4 percent of the cases, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy was the most common type (55.9 percent). In both groups glycosylated hemoglobin values above 7 percent prevailed, whereas normal albuminuria was predominant with 46.7 percent and 66.7 percent, respectively. Conclusions: High glycosylated hemoglobin and normal albuminuria values are clinically associated to proliferative diabetic retinopathy(AU)

Predictors associated with sickle cell nephropathy: a systematic review

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Sickle cell anemia affects more than 30 million people worldwide. Chronic kidney disease develops in 40% of individuals. The death rate of patients with sickle nephropathy is still high, with little known predictors related to its development. To answer the question "What predictors are associated with the onset of chronic kidney disease in patients with sickle cell anemia?", this article seeks to contribute to a better understanding of sickle nephropathy, making possible a new look at the sickle cell anemia and its kidney complications. METHODS: A systematic review was developed, using the PRISMA recommendation, for cohort studies on predictors related to the outcome of sickle nephropathy in patients with sickle cell anemia. RESULTS: Initially 321 studies were identified in Pubmed, of which six were selected to compose this systematic review. Lower hemoglobin levels, increased ages and albuminuria were the most pointed predictors associated with chronic kidney disease. CONCLUSION: The main predictors associated with the development of chronic kidney disease in individuals with sickle cell anemia were lower hemoglobin levels, increased ages, and albuminuria. New studies evaluating predictors for the development of chronic kidney disease in sickle cell anemia are needed to better understand its installation and prevent its progression.

Hemoglobina glicosilada y albuminuria en la progresión de la retinopatía diabética / Glycosylated hemoglobin and albuminuria in the progression of diabetic retinopathy

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar la relación de la hemoglobina glicosilada y la albuminuria con la progresión de la retinopatía diabética. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal en el Centro Oftalmológico de Santiago de Cuba desde octubre del año 2017 hasta octubre de 2019. La muestra fue de 42 pacientes diabéticos tipo 2. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes con tiempo de diabetes mellitus mayor de 10 años y las edades de 55 años o más con el 60,0 por ciento. El color de piel negra fue mayor con 66,7 por ciento; la agudeza visual mayor de 0,6 se presentó en el 49,4 por ciento y la retinopatía diabética proliferativa fue la más presentada con 55,9 por ciento. Predominaron además valores de hemoglobina glicosilada mayores de 7 por ciento en ambos grupos y la normoalbuminuria fue la que predominó en ambos grupos con 46,7 y 66,7 por ciento. Conclusiones: Los valores elevados de hemoglobina glicosilada y la normoalbuminuria se asocian de forma clínica a retinopatía diabética proliferativa(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective: Identify the relationship of glycosylated hemoglobin and albuminuria to progression of diabetic retinopathy. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Santiago de Cuba Ophthalmology Center from October 2017 to October 2019. The sample was 42 type 2 diabetic patients. Results: A predominance was found of patients with diabetes mellitus for more than 10 years and the 55 years and over age group (60.0 percent). Black skin color prevailed with 66.7 percent, visual acuity above 0.6 was present in 49.4 percent, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy was the most common type (55.9 percent). In both groups glycosylated hemoglobin values above 7 percent prevailed and normal albuminuria was predominant with 46.7 percent and 66.7 percent. Conclusions: High glycosylated hemoglobin and normal albuminuria values are clinically associated to proliferative diabetic retinopathy(AU)

Association of different biomarkers of renal function with D-dimer levels in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (renal biomarkers and D-dimer in diabetes)

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to evaluate the association between different renal biomarkers with D-Dimer levels in diabetes mellitus (DM1) patients group classified as: low D-Dimer levels (< 318 ng/mL), which included first and second D-Dimer tertiles, and high D-Dimer levels (≥ 318 ng/mL), which included third D-Dimer tertile. Materials and methods D-Dimer and cystatin C were measured by ELISA. Creatinine and urea were determined by enzymatic method. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using CKD-EPI equation. Albuminuria was assessed by immunoturbidimetry. Presence of renal disease was evaluated using each renal biomarker: creatinine, urea, cystatin C, eGFR and albuminuria. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess which renal biomarkers are associated with high D-Dimer levels and odds ratio was calculated. After, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess which renal biomarkers are associated with high D-Dimer levels (after adjusting for sex and age) and odds ratio was calculated. Results Cystatin C presented a better association [OR of 9.8 (3.8-25.5)] with high D-Dimer levels than albuminuria, creatinine, eGFR and urea [OR of 5.3 (2.2-12.9), 8.4 (2.5-25.4), 9.1 (2.6-31.4) and 3.5 (1.4-8.4), respectively] after adjusting for sex and age. All biomarkers showed a good association with D-Dimer levels, and consequently, with hypercoagulability status, and cystatin C showed the best association among them. Conclusion Therefore, cystatin C might be useful to detect patients with incipient diabetic kidney disease that present an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, contributing to an early adoption of reno and cardioprotective therapies.

Clinical Outcomes in Hospitalized Patients with Clostridium difficile Infection by Age Group / 대한소화기학회지

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Advanced age is a known risk factor of poor outcomes for colitis, including Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). The present study compares the clinical outcomes of young and old patients hospitalized for CDI. METHODS: The clinical records of patients admitted from January 2007 to December 2013 with a diagnosis of CDI were analyzed. Patient baseline characteristics, clinical courses, and outcomes were compared with respect to age using a cut-off 65 years. RESULTS: Of the 241,391 inpatients registered during the study period, 225 (0.1%) with a diagnosis of CDI were included in the study. The mean patient age was 67.7 years. Seventy-two patients (32.0%) were younger than 65 years and 153 patients (68.0%) were 65 years old or more. The male to female ratio in the younger group was 0.8, and 0.58 in the older group. All 225 study subjects had watery diarrhea; six patients (8.3%) complained of bloody diarrhea in the young group and 21 patients (13.7%) in the old group (p=0.246). Right colon involvement was more common in the old group (23.5% vs. 42.7%, p=0.033). Furthermore, leukocytosis (41.7% vs. 67.3%, p=0.000), a CDI score of > or =3 points (77.8% vs. 89.5%, p=0.018), and hypoalbuminemia (58.3% vs. 76.5%, p=0.005) were more common in the old group. Failure to first line treatment was more common in the old group (17 [23.6%] vs. 58 [37.9%], p=0.034). CONCLUSIONS: Severe colitis and failure to first line treatment were significantly more common in patients age 65 years or more. More aggressive initial treatment should be considered for older CDI patients.

Microalbuminuria en pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico de síndrome hemolítico urémico / Microalbuminuria in pediatric patients diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome

Introducción: El síndrome hemolítico urémico (SHU) se caracteriza por la presencia de anemia hemolítica microangiopática, trombocitopenia y afectación renal aguda. Es la principal causa de falla renal aguda en niños menores de 3 años. Un número variable de pacientes evoluciona con afectación renal a largo plazo con proteinuria, hipertensión arterial e insuficiencia renal crónica. Objetivo: Evaluar la afectación renal mediante el índice microalbuminuria/creatininuria en pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico de SHU. Pacientes y Método: Estudio descriptivo de cohorte concurrente que analizó la presencia de microalbuminuria en pacientes diagnosticados de SHU entre enero de 2001 y marzo de 2012, que evolucionaron sin hipertensión y con función renal normal (clearance mayor de 90 ml/min medido por fórmula de Schwartz). Se evaluaron factores demográficos (edad, sexo), presentación clínica en el momento del diagnóstico, uso de antibióticos previo al ingreso y requerimiento de terapia de reemplazo renal. Resultados: Se estudiaron 24 pacientes, el 54% varones; la edad promedio en el momento del diagnóstico fue de 2 años; un 45% requirió diálisis peritoneal; un 33% evolucionó con microalbuminuria persistente; cuatro pacientes recibieron tratamiento antiproteinúrico con buena respuesta. El promedio de seguimiento fue de 6 años (rango: 6 meses a 11 años); todos los pacientes durante el seguimiento evolucionaron con creatinina plasmática normal. Conclusiones: En nuestro grupo, el porcentaje de microalbuminuria persistente en pacientes con diagnóstico previo de SHU fue similiar a lo descrito en la literatura; el tratamiento con antiproteinúricos podría retrasar el daño renal, pero es necesario realizar estudios prospectivos multicéntricos.

Introduction: Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by the presence of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney failure. It is the leading cause of acute kidney failure in children under 3 years of age. A variable number of patients develop proteinuria, hypertension, and chronic renal failure. Objective: To evaluate the renal involvement in pediatric patients diagnosed with HUS using the microalbumin/creatinine ratio. Patients and Methods: Descriptive concurrent cohort study that analyzed the presence of microalbuminuria in patients diagnosed with HUS between January 2001 and March 2012, who evolved without hypertension and normal renal function (clearance greater than 90 ml/min using Schwartz formula). Demographic factors (age, sex), clinical presentation at time of diagnosis, use of antibiotics prior to admission, and need for renal replacement therapy were evaluated. Results: Of the 24 patients studied, 54% were male. The mean age at diagnosis was two years. Peritoneal dialysis was required in 45%, and 33% developed persistent microalbuminuria. Antiproteinuric treatment was introduce in 4 patients, with good response. The mean follow-up was 6 years (range 6 months to 11 years). The serum creatinine returned to normal in all patients during follow up. Conclusions: The percentage of persistent microalbuminuria found in patients with a previous diagnosis of HUS was similar in our group to that described in the literature. Antiproteinuric treatment could delay kidney damage, but further multicenter prospective studies are necessary.

Función renal en pacientes pediátricos con trasplante alogénico de progenitores hematopoyéticos / Renal function in pediatric patients with allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation

Patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can develop some degree of renal failure. The aim of this descriptive study is to evaluate markers of kidney injury in pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation between 1991 and 2011. Patients and Method: A descriptive study of pediatric patients with allogeneic transplant of hematopoietic precursors between 1991 and 2011. The patients were between 1 month and 18 years of age at the time of the study and had at least 6 months of follow up. Clinical and nutritional history, continuous blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), urine tests, proteinuria, creatinine and renal and bladder ultrasonography imaging were evaluated. Results: During this period 65 patients were transplanted, of which 13 patients were included. 46% (n = 6) showed diverse degrees of renal compromise defined by altered renal parenchymal echogenicity, clinic or masked hypertension and/or microalbuminuria. Conclusion: In this clinical group, almost half of the patients patients had some degree of renal injury in their evolution. We consider essential to assess the renal function in the follow-up of these patients.

Introducción: Los pacientes con trasplante de progenitores hematopoyéticos pueden evolucionar con algún grado de compromiso renal. El objetivo de este estudio descriptivo fue evaluar marcadores de injuria renal en pacientes pediátricos sometidos a trasplante alogénico de progenitores hematopoyéticos entre 1991 y 2011. Pacientes y Método: Estudio descriptivo en pacientes pediátricos con Trasplante alogénico de Precursores Hematopoyéticos entre los años 1991 y 2011 con edad entre 1 mes y 18 años al momento de realizar el estudio y que tuviesen al menos 6 meses de seguimiento. Se evaluaron antecedentes clínicos, nutricionales, presión arterial por monitoreo continuo (MAPA), exámenes de orina, proteinuria, creatininuria y estudio de imágenes por ecotomografía renal y vesical. Resultados: Durante este período se trasplantaron 65 pacientes, de los cuales se incluyeron 13 pacientes. Un 46% (n = 6) presentó compromiso renal de grado variable definido por alteración en la ecogenicidad del parénquima renal, hipertensión arterial clínica o enmascarada y/o microalbuminuria. Conclusión: En la serie clínica estudiada con el 50% de los pacientes presentó algún grado de injuria renal en su evolución. Consideramos importante evaluar función renal en el seguimiento de este grupo de pacientes.

Marcadores de daño vascular y renal en orina en niños y adolescentes obesos / Vascular and renal damage markers observed in urine from obese children and adolescents

INTRODUCCIÓN: la microalbuminuria es considerada un marcador de disfunción endotelial, daño vascular, daño renal y enfermedad cardiovascular, considerada un factor de riesgo independiente de morbilidad y mortalidad. De igual manera, la proteinuria ha sido identificada como un factor de riesgo independiente de enfermedad renal crónica, y un predictor de todas las causas de mortalidad. Ambas, son relativamente frecuentes en los sujetos obesos. OBJETIVO: determinar la frecuencia de marcadores de daño vascular y renal en orina en niños y adolescentes obesos. MÉTODOS: se presenta un estudio observacional, analítico y prospectivo que incluyó a niños y adolescentes obesos atendidos en consulta de referencia "Obesidad y riñón", en el Hospital Pediátrico Docente de Centro Habana. El estudio fue realizado en el periodo comprendido entre enero de 2009 y diciembre de 2012. Se determinaron marcadores de daño vascular y renal en orina (microalbuminuria y proteinuria). El análisis estadístico fue realizado con el programa SPSS versión 13,0. RESULTADOS: solo a un paciente se le identificó proteinuria (0,5 %); sin embargo, al determinar la microalbuminuria, se encontró que más de la mitad (70,8 %) tenía este marcador de daño vascular y renal positivo. En el análisis histopatológico de la biopsia renal del paciente con proteinuria se encontró glomerulomegalia con lesión segmentaria de esclerosis y adherencia a la cápsula de Bowman. CONCLUSIONES: los niños y adolescentes obesos tienen una elevada frecuencia de positividad de marcadores de daño vascular y renal, fundamentalmente microalbuminuria.

INTRODUCTION: microalbuminuria is considered to be a marker of endothelial dysfunction, vascular damage, renal damage and cardiovascular disease in addition to be an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality. Similarly, proteinuria has been identified as an independent risk factor for chronic renal disease and a predictor of all causes of mortality. Both are relatively frequent in obese subjects. OBJECTIVE: to determine the frequency of vascular and renal markers in the urine from obese children and adolescents. METHODS: prospective, observational and analytical study of obese children and adolescents seen at the reference service called obesity and kidney in the teaching pediatric hospital of Centro Habana. The study was conducted from January 2009 through December 2012. Vascular and renal markers were determined in the urine (microalbuminuria and proteinuria). The statistical analysis was based on SPSS program version 13.0. RESULTS: there was just one patient detected with proteinuria (0.5 %); however, in the microalbuminuria test, it was found that over half of the patients (70.8 %) were positive to this vascular and renal damage marker. In the histopathological analysis of the renal biopsy taken from the patient with proteinuria, segmental glomerulosclerosis and adhesion to Bowman's capsule was discovered. CONCLUSIONS: obese children and adolescents have very frequent positivity to vascular and renal damage markers, mainly microalbuminuria.

Diagnostic accuracy of spot and timed measurements of urinary albumin concentration to determine microalbuminuria in sickle cell disease / Precisión diagnóstica de las mediciones puntuales y cronometradas de la concentración de albúmina en orina para determinar la microalbuminuria en la enfermedad de células falciformes

OBJECTIVE: Whereas measurement of albumin:creatinine ratio (ACR) in spot urine samples is indicated for determining microalbuminuria, its performance or that of urinary albumin excretion rate (UAER) in predicting microalbuminuria in sickle cell disease (SCD) is unclear. We therefore tested the diagnostic performance of these measures in spot and timed urine samples in predicting a UAER in 24-hour samples. METHODS: Thirty participants with SCD had spot, two-hour and four-hour, followed by 24-hour urine collections for ACR, urinary albumin concentration (UAC) and UAER determinations. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed. RESULTS: The areas under the ROC curves for microalbuminuria were 0.99 (CI: 0.97, 1.00) for ACR and 0.97 (CI: 0.92, 1.00) for UAC in spot urine samples. For ACR, at the cut-point of 4.13 mg/mmol, there was 100% sensitivity and 82.6% specificity, allowing an 86.2% correct classification. At the cut-point of UAC = 20.9 mg/L, there was 100% sensitivity and 73.9% specificity, allowing a 79.3% correct classification. Corresponding areas for microalbuminuria in two-hour timed samples were 0.99 (CI: 0.95, 1.00) for ACR and 0.96 (CI: 0.89, 1.00) for UAER. For ACR, the cut-point was 4.64 mg/mmol with 83.3% sensitivity and 91.3% specificity, allowing an 89.7% correct classification. Similarly for UAER, at the cut-point of 21.8 µ/min, there was 83.3% sensitivity and 91.3% specificity, allowing 89.7% correct classification. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnostic performance of ACR and UAC in a spot as well as ACR and UAER in two-hour timed urine samples in patients with SCD is excellent. Healthcare professionals can confidently utilize these measures in this patient population.

OBJETIVO: Si bien la medición del índice urinario albúmina:creatinina (IAC) en muestras de orina puntuales se indica para la determinación de la microalbuminuria, no está clara su eficacia, ni la de la tasa de excreción de albúmina urinaria (TEAU), en la predicción de microalbuminuria en la enfermedad de células falciformes (ECF). Por lo tanto, sometimos a prueba la eficacia diagnóstica de estas mediciones puntuales y cronometradas de las muestras de orina a la hora de predecir una TEAU en muestras de 24 horas. MÉTODOS: A treinta participantes con ECF se les tomaron muestras puntuales de orina, a las dos horas y a las cuatro horas, seguidas por muestras de orina de 24 horas para el IAC, la concentración de albúmina urinaria (CAU), y las determinaciones de TEAU. Se realizaron análisis de la curva de las características operativas del receptor (ROC). RESULTADOS: Las áreas bajo las curvas ROC para la microalbuminuria fueron 0.99 (CI: 0.97, 1.00) para IAC y 0.97 (CI: 0.92, 1.00) para CAU en muestras puntuales de orina. Para IAC, en el punto de corte de 4,13 mg/mmol, hubo 100% sensibilidad y 82.6% de especificidad, lo que permite una clasificación 86.2% correcta. En el punto de corte de CAU = 20,9 mg/L, hubo un 100% de sensibilidad y 73.9% de especificidad, lo que permitió una clasificación 79.3% correcta. Las áreas correspondientes para la microalbuminuria en muestras de tiempo de dos horas fueron 0.99 (CI: 0.95, 1.00) para IAC y 0,96 (CI: 0.89, 1.00) para TEAU. Para IAC, el punto de corte fue 4.64 mg/mmol con 83.3% de sensibilidad y 91.3% de especificidad, lo que permitió una clasificación 89.7% correcta. Del mismo modo para TEAU, en el punto de corte de 21.8 µ/min, hubo una sensibilidad de 83.3% y una especificidad de 91.3%, lo que permitió una clasificación 89.7% correcta. CONCLUSIONES: La eficacia diagnóstica de IAC y UAC en un punto así como el IAC y la TEAU en muestras de orina de tiempo de dos horas en pacientes con ECF es excelente. Los profesionales de la salud pueden utilizar estas mediciones con confianza en esta población de pacientes.

Efeitos do controle glicêmico obtido em curto prazo sobre a microalbuminúria e a filtração glomerular em pacientes diabéticos do tipo 2 com controle glicêmico precário / Efect of short term glycemic control on microalbuminuria and glomerular filtration rate in type 2 diabetic patients with poor glycemic control

INTRODUÇÃO: O controle intensivo da glicemia reduz significativamente o risco de desenvolvimento de complicações microvasculares, incluindo a nefropatia. OBJETIVOS: Foi avaliado o impacto do controle glicêmico, por meio do cálculo da glicemia média semanal (GMS) e variabilidade glicêmica (VG), sobre a pressão arterial (PA) nas 24 horas (MAPA), excreção urinária de albumina (EUA) e taxa de filtração glomerular (TFG). MÉTODOS: 53 pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2), dividida aleatoriamente em dois grupos para receber tratamento convencional ou intensivo. Esse último incluía visitas semanais para ajustes da medicação e aplicação de um plano educacional durante seis semanas. RESULTADOS: Observou-se controle glicêmico (GMS < 150 mg/dL e VG < 50) em 75% (n = 21) dos pacientes do grupo intervenção (GI) (n = 28) e em 24% (n = 6) do grupo convencional (GC) (n = 25) (p < 0,001). Dos 27 pacientes dos dois grupos que obtiveram controle glicêmico, 14 apresentavam inicialmente média da PA sistólica (PAS) > 120 mmHg e que se reduziu de 138,4 ± 10,1 para 127,8 ± 11,6 mmHg (p = 0,023) ao final das seis semanas. Foram observadas reduções da PAS e PA diastólica (PAD) na vigília e durante o sono, que não ocorreram no grupo (n = 17) sem controle glicêmico e PAS >120 mmHg. Inicialmente, 15 pacientes apresentavam TFG >120 mL/min, sendo que após seis semanas, apenas o subgrupo que alcançou controle glicêmico (n = 7) mostrou redução de 137,2 ± 16 para 122,2 ± 25,2 mL/min (p = 0,02). No inicio do estudo, outros quinze pacientes apresentavam microalbuminúria. Após seis semanas, independente de terem alcançado o controle glicêmico preconizado, observou-se redução da EUA de 63,0 ± 43,1 para 24,8 ± 19,5 mg/g de creatinina (p = 0,02). CONCLUSÃO: Assim, o controle glicêmico obtido em curto prazo resultou na redução da PA, da TFG e da EUA nos pacientes com DM2 que apresentavam alterações desses parâmetros, alterações benéficas no que se refere à proteção renal.

INTRODUCTION: The intensive glucose control significantly reduces the risk of microvascular complications, including nephropaty. OBJECTIVES: We assess the impact of glycemic control through calculation of weekly mean glycemia (WMG) and glycemic variability (GV) on 24 hours ambulatory blood pressure (ABPM), urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). METHODS: 53 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) were randomly divided into two groups to receive conventional or intensive treatment, which included weekly visits for medication adjustments and implementation of an educational plan for six weeks. RESULTS: We observed glycemic control (WMG < 150 mg/dL and VG < 50) in 75% (n = 21) of the patients on the intervention treatment (IT) (n = 28), and in 24% (n = 6) of the ones on the conventional treatment (CT) (n = 25) (p < 0.001). Considering patients of the two groups, 14 out of the 27 patients who achieved glycemic control showed initial mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) > 120 mmHg which was reduced from 138.4 ± 10.1 to 127.8 ± 11.6 mmHg (p = 0.023) at the end of week six. Reductions in SBP and diastolic BP (DBP) during wakefulness and sleep did not occur in the group (n = 17) without glycemic control and with SBP > 120 mmHg. Initially, 15 patients had GFR > 120 mL/min, and after six weeks, only the subgroup that achieved glycemic control (n = 7) showed a reduction of 137.2 ± 16 to 122.2 ± 25.2 mL/min (p = 0.02). At the beginning of the study, another fifteen patients presented with microalbuminuria. After six weeks, regardless of whether they achieved glycemic control or not, there was reduction in UAE, from 63.0 ± 43.1 to 24.8 ± 19.5 mg/g creatinine (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Thus short term glycemic control resulted in reductions of BP, GFR and the UAE in patients with DM2, which are beneficial for renal protection.

Associações entre medidas ecocardiográficas e função renal em hipertensos na Atenção Básica / Echocardiographic associations with renal function in hypertensive individuals treated at Primary Care level

INTRODUÇÃO: A microalbuminúria (MA) e redução da filtração glomerular (FG) podem associar-se às complicações cardíacas da hipertensão arterial (HA), podendo levar a alterações na estrutura, função e geometria do ventrículo esquerdo (VE). OBJETIVOS: Associar alterações da MA e FG com parâmetros do ventrículo esquerdo analisados ao ecodopplercardiograma. Métodos: Realizou-se estudo transversal no período de fevereiro a julho de 2010 com 220 hipertensos tratados em duas unidades de saúde em São Luís. Foram incluídos pacientes > 18 anos de ambos os sexos. Avaliaram-se dados sociodemográficos, FG e MA em urina de 24 horas, bioquímica, os padrões ecodopplercardiográficos funcionais e geométricos do ventrículo esquerdo. Os pacientes foram agrupados segundo a presença de MA e a taxa de FG. RESULTADOS: O grupo HA com MA apresentou aumento da espessura do VE e índice de massa indexado à superfície corporal (IMSC) e espessura relativa da parede (ERP), menores ondas E' lateral e septal, e maior relação E/e' média (p < 0,05). O grupo HA com FG < 60 mL/min/1,73 m² apresentou maiores espessuras, índices de massa e menores relações E/A, menores ondas E' lateral e septal, e maior relação E/e' média (p < 0,05). O padrão geométrico hipertrofia concêntrica (HVE) apresentou relação com MA (p = 0,002). CONCLUSÕES: A MA apresentou associação significativa com o aumento das espessuras das paredes do VE e do índice de massa e alterações na função diastólica. Também esteve associada à HVE. A FG apresentou associação significativa com o aumento dos índices de espessuras e massa, e também indicou alterações na função diastólica.

INTRODUCTION: Microalbuminuria (MA) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can be associated with cardiac complications hypertension (AH), which may lead to changes in the structure, function and left ventricular geometry. OBJECTIVES: To correlate changes of the GFR and MA with the parameters of the left ventricle (LV) assessed by echocardiography. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out from February through July 2010 with 220 hypertensive patients treated at two Primary Care Outpatient Clinics in São Luis. Patients > 18 years of age of both sexes were included in the study. Sociodemographic data, GFR, MA on 24-hour urine, biochemistry and LV geometry and function were assessed. They were divided into two groups according to MA and GFR. RESULTS: The group AH and MA showed increased wall thickness and LV mass indexed for the body surface area (BSA) and relative wall thickness (RWT), lower lateral E' and septal waves, and higher mean E/e' ratio (p <0.05). The AH group with GFR < 60 mL/min/1,73 m² showed increased wall thickness and LV mass indexed for BSA, lower lateral E 'and septal waves, and higher mean E/e' ratio (p < 0.05). The geometric pattern of LV concentric hypertrophy (LVH) was related to MA (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: The MA was significantly associated with increased LV wall thickness and LV mass indexed for BSA, and also changes of diastolic function. Left ventricular concentric hypertrophy was related to MA. The GFR was also significantly associated with increased LV wall thickness and LV mass indexed for BSA suggesting changes of the diastolic function.

Anti-albuminuric efficacy of a combination of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor & angiotensin receptor blocker in type 1 DM with nephropathy.

Background & objective: The efficacy of the combination of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in patients of type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) with nephropathy is debatable. The antialbuminuric efficacy of dual blockade in patients of type 1 DM with micro- or macroabuminuria were evaluated. Methods: In this open label observational study 30 patients (20 male 10 female) with type 1 DM were included who were initially treated with telmisartan 80 mg for eight weeks followed by addition of ramipril 10 mg for a further eight weeks. Albuminuria reduction was studied at the end of each phase. Results: Therapy with telmisartan for 8 wk resulted in a 39 per cent (P<0.01) reduction in albumin excretion rate (AER). Combination therapy with telmisartan and ramipril produced a further reduction in AER of 33.4 per cent (P<0.01), amounting to a total AER reduction of 59 per cent (P<0.001). Dual blockade was more effective in the group of macroalbuminuric as compared to microalbuminuric subjects (P<0.05). Telmisartan produced a significant reduction in SBP (P<0.05). The addition of ramipril produced a further reduction in BP, the total reduction being 10.3 in SBP and 7.2 mmHg in DBP (P<0.001 for both). There was an increase in mean serum potassium of 0.39 mmol/l (P<0.01) from baseline at the end of the study period and two patients had hyperkalemia > 5.5 mmol/l with dual blockade. Interpretation & conclusion: Dual blockade with ramipril enhanced the antialbuminuric efficacy of telmisartan and further reduced blood pressure. The effect of dual blockade was more pronounced in the macroalbuminuric subjects and it was well tolerated. However, careful monitoring of serum potassium is required.

Asociación de la microalbuminuria con la disfunción ventricular izquierda en personas normotensas con diabetes mellitus tipo 1 / Microalbuminuria and its association with left ventricular dysfunction in normotensive subjects presenting with type 1 diabetes mellitus

La disfunción ventricular izquierda es una complicación frecuente en las personas con diabetes mellitus 1. Es objetivo del trabajo determinar si la excreción urinaria de albúmina se asocia a la presencia de disfunción ventricular izquierda en personas normotensas con diabetes mellitus 1 de largo tiempo de evolución. Se realizó un estudio transversal y descriptivo en 80 diabéticos normotensos tipo 1 con 10 años o mas de evolución de la diabetes mellitus 1, atendidos consecutivamente en nuestro centro, en edades entre los 15 y los 40 años. Se excluyeron otras enfermedades o condiciones que provoquen por sí mismas disfunción ventricular izquierda y proteinuria. Se estudió: edad, sexo, índice de masa corporal, hábito de fumar, presión arterial, evolución de la diabetes mellitus 1, retinopatía diabética, nefropatía diabética incipiente, glucemia en ayunas y posprandial de 2 h, hemoglobina glucosilada (HbA1), excreción urinaria de albúmina de 24 h, creatinina, electrocardiograma y ecocardiograma modo M bidimensional con Doppler pulsado. Se comprobó disfunción ventricular izquierda en el 26,3 por ciento y alteraciones estructurales en el 16,2. La frecuencia de nefropatía diabética incipiente fue mayor (p<0,032) en el grupo que tenía disfunción ventricular izquierda (80,9 por ciento vs 57,6 por ciento). La excreción urinaria de albúmina fue mayor (p<0,020) en los afectados por disfunción ventricular izquierda. La disfunción ventricular izquierda es frecuente en la diabetes mellitus 1 de larga evolución. La excreción urinaria de albúmina (microalbuminuria) se asocia a la presencia de disfunción ventricular izquierda. El mayor tiempo de evolución de la diabetes mellitus, la glucemia posprandial y la HbA1 son factores asociados a la disfunción ventricular izquierda(AU)

Left ventricular dysfunction is a frequent complication in persons presenting with type 1 diabetes mellitus. To determine if albumin urinary excretion is associated with the presence of left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) in normotensive persons presenting with type diabetes mellitus of a long evolution. We made a descriptive and cross-sectional study in 80 normotensive type 1 diabetic patients aged between 15 and 40 with a ³10 years of type 1 diabetes mellitus evolution seen in a consecutive way in our service. Other diseases were excluded or those conditions provoking per se left ventricular dysfunction and proteinuria. Study includes: age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking, arterial pressure, type 1 diabetes mellitus evolution, diabetic retinopathy, incipient diabetic nephropathy, 2-hours fast and postprandial glycemia, glucosilated-hemoglobin (HbA1), 24-hours albumin urinary excretion, creatinine, electrocardiogram, and two-dimensional M-mode echocardiogram with pulsed Doppler. We verified left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) in 26,3 percent and structural alterations in 16,2 percent. Incipient diabetic nephropathy frequency was higher (p<0,032) in LVD group (80,9 percent versus 57,6 percent). Albumin urinary excretion was higher too (p<0,020) in patients presenting with LVD. LVD is frequent in type 1 diabetes mellitus with a long evolution. Albumin urinary excretion (microalbuminuria) is associated with presence of LVD. LVD-associated factors include a greater evolution time, postprandial glycemia, and HbA1(AU)

[Evaluating the relation between diabetic nephropathy and urinary copper level]

Diabetes is the most important metabolic disease in human. The prevalence of both types of diabetes is rapidly increasing over the world. Diabetes causes many complications including ESRD. Diabetes is responsible for 30% of ESRD. The prevalence of diabetic nephropathy in Iran is also high. Many of these patients are becoming dialysis dependent. Many studies have shown the changes of trace metals' levels in diabetic patients including cupper, zinc, Manganese and Chromium. This study evaluates the Correlation between urinary cupper and diabetic nephropathy. This is a case-control study. Samples were selected among type 2 diabetic patients attending to diabetes clinic in Vali-e-Asr hospital in Arak. Diabetic patients were divided in two groups based on microalbuminuria, 42 patients in case and 40 patients in control group. Then the patients were classified based on duration of diabetes into 4 groups and based on the HbA1c into two groups. Then urinary cupper was determined with atomic absorption spectophotometry and compared. Independent T test was used to analyze data. The patients were 28.1% male and 69.9% female in case group and 37.5% male and 62.5% female in control group. The mean cupper level was 36.14 micro g/L [14.54-57.74] in case group and 14.77% micro g/L [10.17-19.37] in control group. There was a statistically significant difference between two groups [p=0.003]. The results show a positive relation between urinary cupper and diabetic nephropathy and confirmed the results of other studies that reported the elevation of cupper in microalbuminuria. This study also showed that age, gender, duration of diabetes and HbA1c level have no effect on urinary cupper

Recent update in the management of hypertension.

Hypertension is still the leading cause of death worldwide. Hypertension increases not only the risk for progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) but also for cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. For most patients it is the systolic blood pressure rather than the diastolic blood pressure that most strongly predicts adverse events. The optimal target for BP control for most hypertensive patients is < 140/90 mmHg, or < 130/80 mmHg for patients with diabetes and CKD. Certain lifestyle measures such as weight reduction, smoking cessation, restriction of dietary sodium intake, moderation of alcohol intake and an increase in physical activity can lower BP. Except for progression of proteinuric kidney disease and congestive heart failure (CHF), it is the achieved BP and not the class of agent that is most important in reducing morbid outcomes. If BP is more than 20/10 mmHg above the goal, therapy should be initiated with 2 drugs, one of which should be a thiazide-type diuretic. A strong consideration should be given to initiate antihypertensive therapy in patients with (RAAS) blockers, usually in concert with diuretics. Patients with proteinuria > 1 g/day despite optimal BP control with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) monotherapy may benefit from a combination therapy.

Risk of live kidney donation--Indian perspective.

INTRODUCTION: Live kidney donation is an established form of organ donation but carries the risk of an unnecessary surgery in a normal individual for the benefit of the recipient. Long term effects of nephrectomy have not been studied in Indian donors so far. AIM: The aim of this pilot study was to review the effects of kidney donation on morbidity (renal function, BP and proteinuria), psychosocial outcome and mortality. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifty donors who had nephrectomy 3 months to 20 years prior formed the material of this study. Medical history (donor age at nephrectomy, duration post-nephrectomy, family history), physical examination including anthropometry and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) measurement pre and post nephrectomy were recorded. Evaluation of renal function included pre and post-nephrectomy urinalysis, determination of microalbuminuria, serum creatinine, blood urea, 24 hr urinary protein and creatinine estimation and calculation of creatinine clearance. Renal length was measured by ultrasonography. Quality of life (QOL) was assessed by a standard questionnaire. Donors with co-morbidities not related to nephrectomy were excluded from the analysis. Data was statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty two donors (44%) were males and 28 (56%) females. Parents constituted the majority 39 (78%); 10 were siblings (20%) and 1 was a spousal donor. The mean age at donation was 41.26 +/- 8.12 years (25-54.16 years). Since kidney donation a mean time interval of 63 months (3-264 months) had elapsed. There was a mean rise of 9.96 mm Hg in SBP and 7.18 mm Hg in DBP. Hypertension was noted in 23(46%). 20 donors (40%) developed microalbuminuria (MAU) post nephrectomy and 7 (14%) developed overt proteinuria (> 300 mg/day). Mean GFR pre and post nephrectomy was 102.74 +/- 6.91 ml/min and 74.54 +/- 14.64 ml/min with a mean reduction of 28.2 +/- 13.57 ml/min. There was no significant change in serum creatinine after donation (0.97 +/- 0.09 mg/dl vs 1.22 +/- 0.82 mg/dl). There was an increase in renal length of 1.14 +/- 0.73 cm. None of the donors regretted donation. CONCLUSION: This pilot study reaffirms the safety of live kidney donation. There was a fall in GFR with consequent increase in renal length postnephrectomy. The long-term implications of the minimal increase in proteinuria and rise in blood pressure need to be evaluated in larger cohort of donors over a longer period of time. This study underscores the need for initiating a donor registry to achieve this objective.

Utility of the Dipstick Micraltest II TM in the screening of microalbuminuria of diabetes mellitus type 2 and essential hypertension / Utilidad de la tira reactiva Micraltest II TMen el escrutinio de microalbuminuria en diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e hipertensión esencial

Background. In Mexico, diabetes mellitus type 2 and hypertension are leading causes of end-stage renal disease. Diagnosis of early renal damage with detection of microalbuminuria (microAlbU) is fundamental for treatment and prevention, and so avoiding the catastrophes of renal failure. For screening purposes, several simplified tests, including dipstick methods, fulfill the accuracy requirements for microAlbU detection compared with gold standards; however, no study has established the reliability of such tests in our setting. Aim. To evaluate the utility of micraltest II TM as a screening test for microAlbU compared with nephelometry in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 and non-diabetic patients with essential hypertension. Patients and methods. Patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 as well as patients with essential hypertension of any age, sex and time of evolution, attending to three primary health-care units (UMF No. 3, 92 and 93, Guadalajara, Jalisco) were included. Patients with transitory albuminuria, secondary hypertension and serum creatinine > 2 mg/dL were excluded. Micraltest II TM was performed in the first morning urine sample, and nephelometry was performed in a 24-h urine collection. Diagnostic accuracy of the dipstick test was then determined. Results. 245 patients were studied: 71 (29%) were diabetics without hypertension, 95 (39%) were diabetics with hypertension, and 79 (32%) had only essential hypertension. In diabetic patients, micraltest II TM sensitivity was 83%, specificity 96%, and positive and negative predictive values were 95% and 88%, respectively. Correlation between nephelometry and micraltest II TM results was 0.81 (p < 0.001). The best cut-off point for microAlbU was 30.5 mg/L, and area under the curve (± SEM) was 0.91 ± 0.03 (confidence interval 95%: 0.85-0.96). In non-diabetic patients with essential hypertension, micraltest II TM sensitivity was 75%, specificity 95%, and positive and negative predictive values were 43% and 99%, respectively. Correlation between nephelometry and micraltest II TM results was 0.43 (p < 0.001). The best cut-off point for microAlbU was 28.2 mg/L, and area under the curve was 0.85 ± 0.13 (0.60-1.10). Conclusion. Micraltest II TM dispstick is a rapid, valid and reliable method for albuminuria screening in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 and in those non-diabetic patients with essential hypertension in our setting.

Antecedentes. En México, la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y la hipertensión son las principales causas de insuficiencia renal crónica terminal. El diagnóstico temprano con detección de microalbuminuria (microAlbU) es fundamental para el tratamiento y prevención, y así evitar las catástrofes de la falla renal. Con el fin de tamizaje, varias pruebas simples, incluyendo las tiras reactivas, cumplen con los requerimientos de exactitud para detección de microAlbU comparados con esténdares de oro; sin embargo, ningún estudio ha establecido la confiabilidad de dichos métodos en nuestro medio. Objetivo. Evaluar la utilidad del micraltest II TM como prueba de tamizaje para microAlbU comparada con nefelometría en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y pacientes no diabáticos con hipertensión arterial esencial. Pacientes y métodos. Se incluyeron pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2, así como pacientes con hipertensión arterial esencial de cualquiera de los dos sexos, sexo y tiempo de evolución que atendían a tres unidades de Medicina Familiar (UMF No. 3, 92 y 93, Guadalajara, Jalisco). Se excluyeron pacientes con albuminuria transitoria, hipertensión secundaria y creatinina sárica > 2 mg/dL. El micraltest II TM se realizó en la primera muestra matutina de orina, y la nefelometría en recolecciones de orina de 24 horas. La exactitud diagnóstica de la tira reactiva fue luego determinada. Resultados. Doscientos cuarenta y cinco pacientes fueron estudiados: 71 (29%) eran diabáticos sin hipertensión, 95 (39%) eran diabáticos con hipertensión, y 79 (32%) tenían sólo hipertensión arterial esencial. En los pacientes diabáticos, el micraltest II TM tuvo una sensibilidad de 83%, especificidad de 96%, y valores predictivos positivo y negativo de 95% y 88%, respectivamente. La correlación entre la nefelometría y el micraltest II TM fue 0.81 (p < 0.001). El mejor punto de corte para la detección de microAlbU fue 30.5 mg/L, y el área bajo la curva (± EE) fue 0.91 ± 0.03 (intervalo de confianza 95%: 0.85-0.96). En los pacientes no diabáticos con hipertensión esencial, el micraltest II TM tuvo una sensibilidad de 75%, especificidad de 95%, y valores predictivos positivo y negativo de 43 y 99%, respectivamente. La correlación entre los resultados de nefelometría y micraltest II TM fue 0.43 (p < 0.001). El mejor punto de corte para microAlbU fue 28.2 mg/L, y el área bajo la curva fue 0.85 ± 0.13 (intervalo de confianza 95%:0.60-1.10). Conclusión. La tira reactiva micraltest II TM es un método rápido, válido y confiable para el tamizaje de albuminuria en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 y pacientes no diabáticos con hipertensión arterial esencial en nuestro medio.

Que valores devem ser adotados para o diagnóstico de microalbuminúria no diabete melito? / What values should be used to diagnose microalbuminuria in patients with diabetes mellitus?

A nefropatia diabética (ND) é uma complicação do diabete melito (DM) associada a grande morbi-mortalidade. A identificação de indivíduos de maior risco tornará a sua prevenção mais efetiva. A excreção urinária de albumina (EUA) ainda é o melhor marcador da instalação e progressão da ND, além de ser fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de doenças macrovasculares. A albuminúria nos limites superiores da normalidade (< 20 æg/min) já está associada ao desenvolvimento de micro e macroalbuminúria. A EUA apresenta correlação contínua com o desenvolvimento de doença renal e cardiovascular, sem um ponto determinado a partir do qual ocorre um aumento mais importante do risco. No entanto, na prática clínica se faz necessário o estabelecimento de um valor crítico para guiar o tratamento dos pacientes. Algumas evidências apontam para valores de EUA ente 5 e 10 æg/min como um novo ponto de corte para o diagnóstico de microalbuminúria. Concluindo, a associação entre a EUA e o desfecho renal e cardiovascular parece ser contínuo e já está presente até mesmo com níveis de EUA considerados normais. A adoção de um valor entre 5 e 10 æg/min como de risco poderá identificar os pacientes que deveriam receber tratamento mais precoce e agressivo dos fatores de risco modificáveis.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) associated with increased morbi-mortality. The identification of individuals at high risk for DN will make its prevention more effective. Urinary albumin excretion rate (UAER) is still the best marker for DN development and progression. It is also a major risk factor for macrovascular disease. High-normal albuminuria (< 20 æg/min) is still associated with development of micro- and macroalbuminuria. UAER has a continuous relationship with the development of renal and cardiovascular disease, without a cutoff point from which there is a highly increased risk. However, in clinical practice we need a reference value in order to guide the patient's treatment. Some evidence indicates values of UAER between 5 and 10 æg/min as a new cutoff point for the diagnosis of microalbuminuria. In conclusion, the association between UAER and the renal and cardiovascular outcomes seems to be continuous and is already present with UAER within the normal range. The adoption of a UAER value around 5 to 10 æg/min as risky could identify patients that should receive earlier and more aggressive treatment of modifiable risk factors.