Clinical observation of Qiliqiangxin capsule combined with recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide in patients with acute heart failure / 中华内科杂志

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of Qiliqiangxin capsule combined with recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide in acute left heart failure patients 7 days after onset as well as the effects of plasma MDA and ET-1. Methods: In total, 240 hospitalized patients with acute left heart failure from October 2017 to May 2021 were selected from the Department of Emergency and Critical Care Center of Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University and the Department of Cardiology of the Jilin Provincial People's Hospital. They were randomly divided into routine treatment group and combined treatment group, with 120 cases in each group. The routine treatment group was treated with vasodilation, diuresis, cardiotonic and recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide. The combined treatment group was treated with Qiliqiangxin capsules based on the routine treatment group. One week later, the changes in clinical efficacy, ejection fraction, left ventricular commoid diameter, and plasma BNP, MDA, and ET-1 were compared between the two groups before and after treatment. SPSS 11.5 statistical software was used. The measurement data was expressed in x¯±s, the independent sample t-test was used for comparison between groups, and the paired t-test was used for comparison before and after treatment within groups. Counting data was expressed as case (%), and the rank sum test was used for inter-group comparison. Result: In terms of clinical efficacy, the total effective rate of the combined treatment group was significantly higher than that of the conventional treatment group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Compared with the routine treatment group, the left ventricular ejection fraction in the combined treatment group was significantly increased (P<0.05). The levels of plasma BNP, MDA and ET-1 were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Conclusion: Qiliqiangxin capsule combined with rhBNP treatment can effectively improve the clinical symptoms of acute heart failure, as well as reduce the lipid peroxidation product MDA content and endothetin ET-1 level in blood. The clinical application value of the Qiliqiangxin capsule needs to be further confirmed by further trials.

Cardiovascular drugs and analysis of potential risk factors associated with mortality in severe coronavirus disease 2019 patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES: Cardiovascular diseases are also considered to increase the risk of death in COVID-19 patients. However, real-world data concerning the risk factors for death in patients with severe COVID-19 still remain vague. This study aimed to identify the potential risk factors associated with mortality in severe COVID-19 patients. METHODS: All consecutive patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of our institute for COVID-19 for severe COVID-19 pneumonia from April 1, 2020 to July 20, 2020 were included in the analysis. Patient characteristics, including complete medical history and comorbid diseases, blood test results during admission and on day 7, and clinical characteristics were compared between survivors and nonsurvivors. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between survivors and nonsurvivors regarding age, gender, and preexisting cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, the rate of the medications including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and angiotensin receptor blockers did not differ between survivors and nonsurvivors. The peak C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, fibrinogen, and d-dimer levels and the rate for chronic renal failure were significantly higher in nonsurvivors compared with survivors. Intubated patients had a higher risk of death than the others had. CONCLUSIONS: This study failed to demonstrate a significant difference in preexisting cardiovascular diseases and cardiovascular medications between survivors and nonsurvivors who were admitted to ICU for severe COVID-19. Our findings indicate that the presence of chronic renal failure, a high peak ferritin concentration, and the need for invasive mechanical ventilation appear predictive for mortality. We propose that these risk factors should be taken into account in defining the risk status of severe COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU.

Impact of interventional therapy on top of standard drug therapy on left ventricular structure and function in HFrEF patients complicating with middle aortic syndrome caused by Takayasu arteritis / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To evaluate the impact of interventional therapy on top of drug therapy on cardiac function and structure in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients complicating with middle aortic syndrome caused by Takayasu arteritis (TA-MAS). Methods: It was a retrospective longitudinal study. The data of patients with TA-MAS and HFrEF, who received interventional therapy on top of drug therapy in Fuwai Hospital from January 2010 to September 2020, were collected and analyzed. Baseline clinical data (including demographic data, basic treatment, etc.) were collected through the electronic medical record system. Changes of indexes such as New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular mass index (LVMI) before and after therapy were analyzed. Results: A total of 10 patients were collected. There were 8 females in this patient cohort, age was (18.4±5.0) years and onset age was (15.3±5.0) years. All 10 patients received standard heart failure medication therapy in addition to hormone and/or immunosuppressive anti-inflammatory therapy, but cardiac function was not improved, so aortic balloon dilatation and/or aortic stenting were performed in these patients. The median follow-up was 3.3(1.3, 5.6) years. On the third day after interventional therapy, the clinical symptoms of the 10 patients were significantly improved, NYHA classfication was restored from preoperative Ⅲ/Ⅳ to Ⅱ at 6 months post intervention(P<0.05). Compared with preoperation, NT-proBNP (P=0.028), LVEDD (P=0.011) and LVMI (P=0.019) were significantly decreased, LVEF was significantly increased (P<0.001) at 6 months after operation. Compared with preoperation, NT-proBNP (P=0.016), LVEDD (P=0.023) and LVMI (P=0.043) remained decreased, LVEF remained increased (P<0.001) at 1 year after operation. Conclusion: Results from short and medium term follow-up show that interventional therapy on top of heart failure drug therpay can effectively improve left cardiac function and attenuate cardiac remodeling in patients with TA-MAS comorbid with HFrEF.

Uso de drogas vasoativas e a sua relação com a intolerância dietoterápica / Use of vasoactive drugs and its relationship with intolerance of diet therapy

Investigar o uso de drogas vasoativas e a sua relação com a intolerância dietoterápica em pacientes críticos. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo longitudinal retrospectivo realizado em unidades de terapia intensiva (UTIs) de um hospital público de Goiânia, no período de setembro de 2020 a junho de 2021. Realizou-se o levantamento de dados em prontuários eletrônicos do início da terapia nutricional enteral (TNE) correlato ao uso de droga vasoativa (DVA) até o 3° dia de internação. Resultados: A análise incluiu 40 pacientes, observou-se a prevalência do sexo masculino (72,50%) e a média de idade observada foi de 53,67 ± 19,86 anos. Nesse estudo o uso de uma DVA (77,50%) foi mais prevalente do que o uso de duas ou mais DVAs. Verificou-se uma relação significativa entre desfecho clínico e uso de DVA, de modo que, o óbito foi mais frequente naqueles que usavam duas ou mais DVAs (p=0,016). Também foi observada a associação entre a hipoglicemia e o uso de DVA. Essa intercorrência foi frequente naqueles com uso de duas ou mais DVAs (p=0,030). O uso de DVA não se associou a intolerância dietoterápica, porém observamos que a obstipação foi a intercorrência mais prevalente (42,50%). Conclusão: O uso de DVA não se associou a intolerância dietoterápica nessa amostra. Porém observamos uma relação significativa entre o uso de DVA e o óbito. Ainda, verificou-se que a hipoglicemia também se relacionou ao uso de DVA

To investigate the use of vasoactive drugs and its relationship with dietary intolerance in critically ill patients. Methods: This is a retrospective longitudinal study carried out in intensive care units (ICUs) of a public hospital in Goiânia, from September 2020 to June 2021. Data were collected from electronic medical records from the beginning of the enteral nutritional therapy (ENT) correlated with the use of vasoactive drugs (VAD) until the 3rd day of hospitalization. Results: The analysis included 40 patients, there was a prevalence of males (72.50%) and the mean age observed was 53.67 ± 19.86 years. In this study, the use of one VAD (77.50%) was more prevalent than the use of two or more VADs. There was a significant relationship between clinical outcome and use of VAD, so that death was more frequent in those who used two or more VADs (p=0.016). An association between hypoglycemia and the use of VAD was also observed. This complication was more frequent in those using two or more VADs (p=0.030). The use of VAD was not associated with gastrointestinal intolerance (GI), but we observed that constipation was the most prevalent complication (42.50%). Conclusion: The use of VAD was not associated with GA in this sample. However, we observed a significant relationship between the use of VAD and death. Furthermore, it was found that hypoglycemia was also related to the use of VAD

Risk factors for cardiovascular disease among people with mental illness in Namibia

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) among people with mental illness attending the Mental Health Care Centre, Windhoek, Namibia Design: Observational, cross-sectional study. Setting: Mental health Care Centre, Windhoek Central Hospital. Namibia Participants: Adult patients with a mental illness attending the Mental Health Care Centre, Windhoek. Data collection: Within a systematic random sampling method, 385 adult patients with mental illness were recruited between May and December 2017. Statistical analysis: Validated assessment tools were used. Descriptive summary statistics and Chi-squared tests of association were conducted. Results: One-third (31.7%) of participants used alcohol, 21% used nicotine, 21.3% had hypertension, 55% were overweight or obese, 59.2% of females and 11.5% of males had abdominal obesity. About twenty per cent (19.9%) of participants did meet the World Health Organisation recommended level of activity, while more than two-thirds of participants did not participate in moderate or vigorous physical activities. The patient's psychiatric condition was significantly associated with alcohol use (Chi-square=20.450, p=0.002) and physical activity (Chi-square=20.989, p=0.002). The psychiatric condition was not associated with the waist circumference and gender of the participant. Conclusions: The increased prevalence of CVD risk factors in people with mental illness calls for mental health practitioners to screen, monitor and manage these risk factors regularly. Systematically screening and monitoring for cardiovascular risk factors is likely to contribute to National targets and significantly impact cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in people with mental illness

O uso de inibidores do Sistema Renina-Angiotensina pode aumentar a suscetibilidade à infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)? / Can the use of Renin-Angiotensin System inhibitors increase the susceptibility to SARSCoV-2 infection (COVID-19)?

Diante do contexto pandêmico da COVID-19, esforços têm sido direcionados ao desenvolvimento de medidas terapêuticas seguras e eficazes no combate à doença. Entretanto, divergências entre as condutas adotadas nesses pacientes tem sido frequentes. Em especial, fármacos inibidores do Sistema Renina-Angiotensina, como os Inibidores da Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina e Bloqueadores do Receptor da Angiotensina, são foco de grande discussão. Diversos autores questionam uma possível relação de risco aumentado entre o uso de tais medicações e o desenvolvimento de formas mais graves da doença, ao correlacionar a regulação positiva da Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina 2 induzida por esses fármacos com o fato do SARS-CoV-2 usar essa enzima como receptor celular. Enquanto isso, outros autores defendem que essa modulação atue como fator protetor à gravidade da infecção, levando em consideração a promoção de efeitos vasodepressores, anti-fibróticos e anti-inflamatórios. Dada a alta prevalência do uso desses anti-hipertensivos, a presente revisão analisa o funcionamento do Sistema Renina-Angiotensina; aspectos moleculares do novo coronavírus; e a inibição da Angiotensina 2 no contexto dessa infecção, para discutir qual conduta seria mais adequada no manejo da hipertensão arterial e doenças cardiovasculares, dada a pandemia da COVID-19.

In the face of the pandemic context of the COVID-19, efforts have been directed to the development of safe and effective therapeutic actions in combating the disease. However, divergences between management of these patients have been frequent. Especially, Renin-Angiotensin System inhibitors, as Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, are the focus of great discussion. Several authors question a possible increased risk relation between the use of that medication and the development of the most severe disease form, when correlating AngiotensinConverting Enzyme 2 upregulation induced by those drugs with the fact that SARS-CoV-2 uses this enzyme as its cellular receptor. Meanwhile, other authors defend that the referred modulation acts as a protective factor to infection severity, considering the induction of vasodepressor, antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Given the high prevalence of the use of those antihypertensive drugs, the present review analyses the Renin-Angiotensin System functionning; molecular aspects of the novel coronavirus; and the Angiotensin 2 inhibition in the context of this infection, in order to discuss which conduct would be more appropriate in the management of arterial hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, given the COVID-19 pandemic.

População com risco cardiovascular elevado em uso de medicamento e aconselhamento: a situação do Brasil em relação à meta mundial, 2014-2015 / Población de riesgo cardiovascular elevado en uso de medicamento y asesoramiento: la situación de Brasil en relación al objetivo mundial, 2014-2015 / Population with high cardiovascular risk receiving drug therapy and counseling: Brazil's status regarding the global goal, 2014-2015

Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência de risco cardiovascular (RCV) elevado, a proporção de pessoas com RCV elevado que recebem tratamento e aconselhamento, e investigar os fatores sociodemográficos associados ao desfecho, no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com dados de subamostra da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde, coletados por exames bioquímicos, em 2014-2015. Empregou-se regressão de Poisson. Resultados: A proporção de RCV elevado em homens foi de 11,2% (IC95% 9,6;12,9), e em mulheres, de 10,4% (IC95% 9,2;11,8%). No grupo com RCV elevado, 68,8% (IC95% 63,7;73,4%) receberam aconselhamento; 59,3% (IC95% 54,2;64,3%), medicamento; e 55,6% (IC95% 50,4;60,7%), ambos. Na análise multivariável, receber tratamento e aconselhamento mostrou associação com a idade de 50 anos e mais, e com autoavaliação de saúde ruim/muito ruim (RP=1,26 - IC95% 1,06;1,51). Conclusão: A proporção de pessoas com RCV elevado que receberam tratamento e aconselhamento foi superior a 50%.

Objetivo: Estimar la prevalência de riesgo cardiovascular (RCV) elevado, la proporción de personas con RCV elevado que reciben tratamiento y asesoramiento, e investigar los factores sociodemográficos asociados al resultado, en Brasil. Métodos: Estudio transversal, con datos de la submuestra de la Investigación Nacional de Salud, recolectados por exámenes bioquímicos, en 2014-2015. Se usó la regresión de Poisson. Resultados: La proporción de RCV elevado en hombres fue del 11,2% (IC95% 9,6; 12,9) y en mujeres del 10,4% (IC95% 9,2;11,8%). En el grupo con RCV elevado, 68,8% (IC95% 63,7; 73,4%) recibió asesoramiento, 59,3% (IC95% 54,2;64,3%) medicamento y 55,6% (IC95% 50,4;60,7%) ambos. En el análisis multivariable, recebir tratamiento y asesoramiento se mostró asociado a la edad de 50 años y más, y a autoevaluación de salud mala/muy mala (RP=1,26 - IC95% 1,06;1,51). Conclusión: La proporción de personas con RCV elevado que recibió tratamiento y asesoramiento fue superior a 50%.

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of high cardiovascular risk (CVR), the proportion of people with high CVR who receive treatment and counseling, and to investigate the sociodemographic factors associated with this outcome, in Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, using subsample data from the National Health Survey, collected via biochemical tests, in 2014-2015. Poisson regression was used. Results: The proportion of high CVR in men was 11.2% (95%CI 9.6;12.9), and 10.4% (95%CI 9.2;11.8%) in women. In the group with high CVR, 68.8% (95%CI 63.7;73.4%) received counseling, 59.3% (95%CI 54.2;64.3%) received medication, and 55.6% (95%CI 50.4;60.7%) received both. In the multivariate analysis, receiving treatment and counseling was associated with being aged 50 years and over, and poor/very poor self-rated health (PR=1.26 - 95%CI 1.06;1.51). Conclusion: The proportion of people with high CVR who had received treatment and counseling was over 50%.

The safety and efficacy of Firesorb bioresorbable scaffold in first-in-man study for coronary artery disease: the four-year outcomes / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To evaluate the 4-year clinical outcomes of patients following Firesorb bioresorbable scaffold (BRS) implantation. Methods: The study reported the 4-year follow-up results of the FUTURE I study. FUTURE I was a prospective, single-center, open-label, first-in-man study which evaluated the feasibility, preliminary safety, and efficacy of Firesorb stent in the treatment of coronary artery stenosis. A total of 45 patients with single de novo lesions in native coronary arteries ,who hospitalized in Fuwai Hospital from January to March 2016 were enrolled. After successfully stent implantation these patients were randomized in a 2∶1 ratio into cohort 1 (n=30) or cohort 2 (n=15). The patients in cohort 1 underwent angiographic, IVUS or OCT examination at 6 months and 2 years; and cohort 2 underwent angiographic, IVUS or OCT at 1 and 3 years. All patients underwent clinical follow-up at 1, 6 months and 1 year and annually thereafter up to 5 years. The primary endpoint was target lesion failure (TLF, including cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and ischemia-driven target lesion revascularization). Secondary endpoints included patient-oriented composite endpoint (PoCE, defined as composite of all death, all miocardial infarction, or any revascularization). Results: A total of 45 patients were enrolled and implanted with Firesorb BRS, including 35 males (77.8%), and the age was (54.4±9.3) years. At 4 years, 10 patients in cohort 1 were reexamined by coronary angiography and OCT examination. Among them, 2 patients' stents were completely degraded and absorbed. Compared with the OCT images of the other 8 patients in cohort 2 at 3 years, the degree of stent degradation was increased, and no stent adherence was found. The 4-year clinical follow-up rate was 100%. In 4-year clinical following up, 2 patients suffered PoCE (4.4%): 1 patient underwent non-target vessel revascularization the day after index procedure and target vessel revascularization (Non-target lesion revascularization) at 2-year imaging follow-up; the other patient underwent target lesion revascularization during imaging follow-up at 4 years but not due to ischemic driven. There was no scaffold thrombosis or TLF events through 4 years. Conclusions: Four years after the implantation, complete degradation and absorption of the Firsorb stent are evidenced in some patients. Firesorb stent is feasible and effective in the treatment of patients with non-complex coronary lesions.

Five-year clinical outcomes of the second generation biodegradable polymer sirolimus-eluting stent (EXCROSSAL) in treating patients with de novo coronary lesions / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To evaluate the five-year safety and efficacy of the second generation biodegradable polymer sirolimus-eluting stent (EXCROSSAL) in treating patients with de novo coronary artery diseases. Methods: Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD)who were implanted with EXTROSSAL stents in CREDIT Ⅱ and CREDIT Ⅲ study were included. CREDIT Ⅱ was a randomized trial, and CREDIT Ⅲ was a single-arm study. From November 2013 to December 2014, 833 CAD patients with de novo coronary lesions implanted with EXTROSSAL stents were selected from 33 centers in China. The primary outcome was 5-year target lesion failure (TLF), a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction and clinically indicated target lesion revascularization. Secondary endpoints was patient-oriented composite endpoint (PoCE), including all-cause death, all myocardial infarction, or any revascularization within 5 years post stenting and stent thrombosis according to Academic Research Consortium's (ARC) definition. Kaplan Meier method was used to calculate the incidence of TLF and PoCE within 5 years after operation. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to analyze the impacts of diabetes, small vessel disease (vessel diameter ≤ 2.74 mm), lesion length ≥ 16.7 mm and multivessel disease on the incidence of TLF within 5 years after operation. Results: A total of 833 patients were included in this study including 579 males (69.5%), the age was (59.3±9.1) years. And 832 (99.9%) patients completed 5-year clinical follow-up. The incidence of TLF and PoCE in the 5-year follow-up were 10.6%(86/811) and 15.5%(126/811), respectively. Stent thrombosis occurred in 1.0%(8/811) of patients. Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that vessel diameter ≤ 2.74 mm (HR=3.20,95%CI 1.90-5.39,P<0.001), lesion length ≥ 16.7 mm (HR=1.88,95%CI 1.18-2.99,P=0.007) and multivessel disease (HR=2.44,95%CI 1.60-3.72,P<0.001) were related factors of TLF within 5 years after operation. Conclusion: EXCROSSAL stent is effective and safe in treating CAD patients with de novo coronary lesions, with low incidence of TLF and PoCE within 5 years after operation.

Association between common cardiovascular drugs and depression / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

OBJECTIVE@#Cardiovascular diseases are associated with an increased risk of depression, but it remains unclear whether treatment with cardiovascular agents decreases or increases this risk. The effects of drugs on individual usage are also often unknown. This review aimed to examine the correlation between depression and common cardiovascular drugs, develop more potent interventions for depression in cardiovascular patients, and further research on the bio-behavioural mechanisms linking cardiovascular drugs to depression.@*DATA SOURCES@#The data in this review were obtained from articles included in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science.@*STUDY SELECTION@#Clinical trials, observational studies, review literature, and guidelines about depression and cardiovascular drugs were selected for the article.@*RESULTS@#We systematically investigated whether the seven most used cardiovascular drugs were associated with altered risk of incident depression in this literature review. Statins have been proven to have antidepressant effects. Some studies believe angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) can exert an antidepressant influence by acting on the renin-angiotensin system, but further clinical trials are needed to confirm this. Beta-blockers have previously been associated with depression, but the current study found no significant association between beta blockers and the risk of depression. Aspirin may have antidepressant effects by suppressing the immune response, but its role as an antidepressant remains controversial. calcium channel blockers (CCBs) can regulate nerve signal transduction by adjusting calcium channels, but whether this effect is beneficial or harmful to depression remains unclear. Finally, some cases have reported that nitrates and diuretics are associated with depression, but the current clinical evidence is insufficient.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Statins have been proven to have antidepressant effect, and the antidepressant effects of ACEIs/ARB and aspirin are still controversial. CCBs are associated with depression, but it is unclear whether it is beneficial or harmful. No association has been found with β-blockers, diuretics, and nitrates.

Síndrome de hiperviscosidade em paciente com mieloma múltiplo / Hyperviscosity syndrome in multiple myeloma patients

O mieloma múltiplo é uma neoplasia progressiva e incurável de células B, caracterizado pela proliferação desregulada e clonal de plasmócitos na medula óssea. A síndrome de hiperviscosidade é uma das complicações relacionadas às gamopatias monoclonais, sendo considerada emergência oncológica. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o quadro clínico de um paciente diagnosticado com mieloma múltiplo que apresentou síndrome de hiperviscosidade, avaliando a prevalência de sinais e sintomas, bem como características fisiopatológicas dessa entidade clínica. Foi revisado o prontuário de um paciente internado na enfermaria da Clínica Médica do Hospital Regional do Cariri (CE) no período de junho a julho de 2018. Além disso, foi realizada revisão de literatura em base de dados (PubMed®) direcionada ao tema proposto. O diagnóstico de mieloma múltiplo foi comprovado por mielograma, sendo prontamente iniciada a corticoterapia e avaliada a resposta clínica após essa terapêutica. Apesar de incomum e menos frequentemente relacionada ao mieloma múltiplo, a síndrome de hiperviscosidade está relacionada a uma grande taxa de mortalidade quando apresenta diagnóstico tardio. A terapia de primeira linha indicada para a síndrome de hiperviscosidade foi a plasmaferese, no entanto, as condições clínicas (instabilidade hemodinâmica) impossibilitaram sua realização. O desfecho deste caso foi o óbito do paciente. Concluiu-se que o diagnóstico precoce e a intervenção terapêutica estão diretamente relacionados à ocorrência de menor incidência de complicações relacionadas ao mieloma múltiplo e à síndrome de hiperviscosidade.

Multiple myeloma is a progressive and incurable B-cell neoplasm characterized by unregulated and clonal proliferation of plasmocytes in the bone marrow. Hyperviscosity syndrome is one of the complications related to monoclonal gammopathies and is considered an oncological emergency. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical condition of a patient diagnosed with multiple myeloma who presented hyperviscosity syndrome, evaluating the prevalence of symptoms and signs, as well as the pathophysiological characteristics of this clinical entity. The medical records of a patient admitted to the Internal Medicine ward of the Hospital Regional do Cariri (CE) from June to July of 2018 were reviewed. In addition, we conducted a literature review in a database (PubMed®) directed to the theme proposed. The diagnosis of multiple myeloma was confirmed by myelogram, and corticosteroid therapy was promptly initiated and the clinical response was evaluated after this therapy. Although uncommon and less frequently related to multiple myeoloma, hyperviscosity syndrome is related to a high mortality rate when diagnosed late. The first line therapy indicated to hyperviscosity syndrome was plasmapheresis; however, the clinical conditions (hemodynamic instability) precluded its performance. The outcome of this case was the patient's death. Thus, it was concluded that early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are directly related to the occurrence of lower incidence of complications related to multiple myeloma and hyperviscosity syndrome.

Bulas de medicamentos cardiovasculares: elas têm informações sobre precauções necessárias aos idosos? / Cardiovascular drug labeling: Do they have information on necessary precautions for older people?

OBJETIVO: Analisar a existência de informações, em bulas destinadas aos profissionais de saúde, sobre precaução de uso de medicamentos cardiovasculares em idosos. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de estudo documental realizado por meio de análise de dados contidos em bulas de medicamentos. Analisou-se a existência, na bula, de informações sobre precauções no uso de medicamentos para idosos, conforme descrito no Consenso Brasileiro de Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados para Idosos de 2016. RESULTADOS: Dos 29 medicamentos pertencentes ao grupo do sistema cardiovascular que devem ser evitados por idosos e estão disponíveis no Brasil, 15 independem da condição clínica prévia do paciente para que sejam vetados para os idosos. Desses 15, apenas 3 medicamentos (20%) têm informações explícitas concordantes com o Consenso (metildopa, digoxina e espironolactona); 2 (13,33%) têm informações explícitas ausentes; 4 (26,66%) têm informações explícitas discordantes; e 6 bulas (40%) foram categorizadas como informações não explícitas. Quanto às precauções dos medicamentos de acordo com a condição clínica do paciente, incluíram-se 14 medicamentos que devem ser evitados por idosos e estão disponíveis no Brasil. Destes, 12 (85,71%) têm em suas bulas recomendações concordantes com o Consenso, porém não explícitas, e 2 (14,28%) não têm as contraindicações. CONCLUSÕES: A maioria das bulas carece de informações sobre precauções de uso de medicamentos para a população idosa.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the existence of information on drug labeling intended for health professionals on the precaution of cardiovascular drugs use in older people. METHODS: This is a documentary study, carried out with the analysis of data contained in drug labelings. The existence of information on precautions in the use of drugs for older people as described in the 2016 Brazilian Consensus on Potentially Inappropriate Drugs for Older People (Consenso Brasileiro de Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados para Idosos de 2016). RESULTS: Of the 29 drugs belonging to the cardiovascular system group that should be avoided by older people and are available in Brazil, 15 are independent of the clinical condition. Of these fifteen, only three drugs (20%) have explicit information in accordance with the Consensus (methyldopa, digoxin, and spironolactone); two (13.33%) have missing explicit information; four (26.66%) have explicitly discordant information; and six drug labels (40%) were categorized as non-explicit information. Regarding drug precautions according to clinical condition, 14 drugs were included. Of these, 12 (85.71%) have equal contraindications of that of Consensus on their drug labels, however, non-explicit; and two (14.28%) contraindications are missing. CONCLUSION: Most drug labels lack information on the precautions for the use of drugs in older people.

Identification of potentially inappropriate cardiovascular prescriptions in the elderly using Beers criteria / Criterios de Beers en la identificación de prescripciones de uso cardiovascular potencialmente inapropiadas en ancianos

Abstract Introduction: improper use of medication is becoming more frequent and can cause physical or physiological damage. Objective: to determine the frequency of potentially inappropriate prescriptions of cardiovascular drugs according to Beers' criteria in a population of colombian patients. Method: cross-sectional study conducted during november 2016 using a population database of 326,192 adults over 65 years of age who were eligible to receive drugs included in the cardiovascular system category according to the Beers' criteria. The frequency of potentially inappropriate prescriptions was determined and investigated in relation to sociodemographic variables. Results: the mean subject age was 74.6±7.6 years (range:65-100 years). It was found that 11.3% (n=36894) of the elderly presented at least one potentially inappropriate prescription for cardiovascular conditions. The most frequent finding was the use of aspirin in patients older than 80 years of age followed by the use of prazosin for hypertension in patients over 65 years of age or in patients who consulted emergency services for syncope. The other criteria were present in less than 1% of patients, and in 16 out of 33 treatment drugs, no patients exposed to potentially inappropriate prescriptions were found. Within the criteria based on drug-drug interactions, the most frequent were loop diuretics along with prazosin (6.4%). Conclusions: the prevalence of potentially inappropriate prescriptions in an elderly population of patients in Colombia is lower than that reported worldwide. In addition, there is a need to re-evaluate the Beers' criteria in this population and adjust the guidelines according to results of pharmacovigilance of active pharmaceutical substances available in Colombia.

Resumen Introducción: el uso incorrecto de medicamentos es cada vez más frecuente y puede causar daños físicos o fisiológicos. Objetivo: determinar la frecuencia de las prescripciones de medicamentos de uso cardiovascular potencialmente inapropiadas según criterios de Beers en una población de pacientes colombianos. Métodos: estudio de corte transversal, a partir de una base de datos de una población de 326.192 adultos mayores de 65 años, durante el mes de noviembre de 2016, susceptibles de recibir medicamentos incluidos en los criterios de Beers en la categoría de sistema cardiovascular, determinando la frecuencia de prescripciones potencialmente inapropiadas, así como la identificación de variables sociodemográficas. Resultados: la edad promedio fue de 74,6±7,6 años (rango 65-100 años). Se halló que el 11,3% (n=36894) de los ancianos tuvo al menos una prescripción potencialmente inapropiada para condiciones cardiovasculares. El criterio más frecuente fue el uso de aspirina en mayores de 80 años, seguido del empleo de prazosín para la hipertensión arterial en mayores de 65 años, o en pacientes que consultaron por síncope a los servicios de urgencias. Los demás criterios se presentaban en menos del 1% de pacientes y en 16 de 33 fármacos de cuidado no se halló ningún paciente expuesto. Entre los criterios basados en interacciones fármaco-fármaco, el más frecuente fue diuréticos de asa junto con prazosín (6,4%). Conclusiones: la prevalencia de prescripciones potencialmente inapropiadas en una población de ancianos colombianos es menor a la reportada en el mundo. Además, se plantea la necesidad de reevaluar los criterios de Beers en dicha población y ajustarlos de acuerdo con los informes de farmacovigilancia y principios activos disponibles en Colombia.

Uso de testosterona en mujeres: un comentario sobre el consenso global sobre el uso de la terapia de testosterona para mujeres / Global consensus position statement on the use of testosterone therapy for women

Las mujeres han sido tratadas por décadas con testosterona intentando aliviar una gran variedad de síntomas con riesgos y beneficios inciertos. En la mayoría de los países, la testosterona se prescribe "off-label", de modo que las mujeres están utilizando compuestos y dosis ideadas para tratamientos en hombres. En este sentido, varias sociedades médicas de distintos continentes adoptaron recientemente por consenso una toma de posición sobre los beneficios y potenciales riesgos de la terapia con testosterona en la mujer, explorar las áreas de incertidumbre e identificar prácticas de prescripción con potencial de causar daño. Las recomendaciones con respecto a los beneficios y riesgos de la terapia con testosterona se basan en los resultados de ensayos clínicos controlados con placebo de al menos 12 semanas de duración. A continuación se comentan las recomendaciones. (AU)

There are currently no clear established indications for testosterone replacement therapy for women. Nonetheless, clinicians have been treating women with testosterone to alleviate a variety of symptoms for decades with uncertainty regarding its benefits and risks. In most countries, testosterone therapy is prescribed off-label, which means that women are using testosterone formulations or compounds approved for men with a modified dose for women. Due to these issues, there was a need for a global Consensus Position Statement on testosterone therapy for women based on the available evidence from placebo randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This Position Statement was developed to inform health care professionals about the benefits and potential risks of testosterone therapy intended for women. The aim of the Consensus was to provide clear guidance as to which women might benefit from testosterone therapy; to identify symptoms, signs, and certain conditions for which the evidence does not support the prescription of testosterone; to explore areas of uncertainty, and to identify any prescribing practices that have the potential to cause harm. (AU)

Evaluating the long-term prognosis of coronary artery disease patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention by risk stratification with ACC/AHA classification of coronary lesions / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To evaluate the long-term prognosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) by risk stratification with American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) classification of coronary lesions. Methods: Data used in this study derived from the I-LOVE-IT 2 trial. I-LOVE-IT 2 trial was a prospective, multicenter, randomized, assessor-blinded, noninferiority study. A total of 1 255 patients in I-LOVE-IT 2 trial with only one lesion and underwent biodegradable polymer drug-eluting stent implantation were included and grouped according to ACC/AHA classification of coronary lesions, namely type A/B1 lesion group (n=184), type B2 lesion group (n=457) and type C lesion group (n=614). The primary endpoint was 48-month patient-oriented composite endpoint (PoCE), a composite of all-cause mortality, all myocardial infarction, stroke, and/or any revascularization. The secondary endpoints were target lesion failure (TLF), components of PoCE, major bleeding (bleeding academic research consortium(BARC) type 3-5) and definite/probable stent thrombosis within 48 months. The incidences of endpoint events were compared in the three groups. The multivariable Cox hazard ratio model was used to analyze the independent predictors of PoCE and TLF at 48 months. Results: Incidences of PoCE at 48 months were significantly higher in patients with type C lesion compared with patients with type A/B1 (24.43%(150/614) vs. 14.13%(26/184), P<0.05) or B2 lesion (24.43%(150/614) vs. 15.97%(73/457), P<0.05). The multivariable Cox hazard ratio model showed that the type C lesion were the independent predictors of 48-month PoCE (HR=1.59, 95%CI 1.21-2.08, P<0.001) and TLF (HR=2.31, 95%CI 1.53-3.49, P<0.001). After multivariable adjustment, the HRs of PoCE for patients with type C lesion versus type A/B1 and type B2 were 1.91 (95%CI 1.25-2.92, P=0.003) and 1.64 (95%CI 1.23-2.20, P<0.001), respectively. Meanwhile, the HRs of TLF for patients with type C lesion versus type A/B1 and type B2 were 2.45 (95%CI 1.29-4.64, P=0.006) and 2.55 (95%CI 1.62-4.02, P=0.001), respectively. Conclusions: The ACC/AHA classification of coronary lesions has good discrimination with long-term outcomes for CAD patients undergoing PCI. The type C lesion is associated with a worse prognosis, enough attention should be paid in these patients during routine clinical management.