Mioclonías positivas y negativas en paciente con enfermedad renal crónica / Positive and negative myoclonus in a patient with end stage renal disease

Introducción: Las mioclonías son contracciones musculares paroxísticas de corta duración o pérdida abrupta del tono muscular, denominadas mioclonías positivas y negativas, respectivamente. Se presenta un caso clínico de mioclonías positivas y negativas generalizadas y se pretende describir los múltiples mecanismos fisiopatológicos y etiologías que lo desencadenan. Presentación del caso: Hombre de 35 años, con diabetes mellitus tipo 1 complicada con enfermedad renal diabética en hemodiálisis, desarrolló una bacteriemia asociada a catéter por Staphylococcus aureus y presentó mioclonías positivas y negativas. Se identificaron como posibles desencadenantes la uremia, la infección y los fármacos con potencial promioclónico; el hallazgo incidental de una lesión isquémica en núcleo caudado no explicaba la semiología encontrada en el paciente. Se hizo el control y retiro de todos los factores promioclónicos enunciados, junto a manejo farmacológico con levetiracetam, y con ello se logró el control de los síntomas. Discusión: Los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica son susceptibles a la acumulación de productos tóxicos de tipo guanidinas, que tienen potencial para producir mioclonías. Además, las infecciones, el uso de fármacos con potencial promioclónico y lesiones estructurales como las isquemias corticales son etiologías que deben considerarse en el diagnóstico diferencial. El mayor impacto en los síntomas se observa con el control del factor desencadenante, y, en caso de persistir, la terapia farmacológica proporciona buenos resultados. Conclusión: Las mioclonías son trastornos del movimiento relativamente comunes en la enfermedad renal crónica. La identificación del desencadenante es crucial para su manejo junto al uso de fármacos con actividad antimioclónica.

Introduction: Myoclonus are paroxysmal muscle contractions of short duration or abrupt loss of muscle tone, called positive and negative myoclonus respectively. A clinical case of generalized positive and negative myoclonus is presented and the aim is to describe the multiple pathophysiological mechanisms and etiologies that trigger it. Case presentation: A 35-year-old man with type 1 diabetes mellitus complicated by diabetic kidney disease on hemodialysis developed catheter-associated bacteremia due to Staphylococcus aureus and presented positive and negative myoclonus. Uremia, infection, and drugs with pro-myoclonic potential were identified as possible triggers; The incidental finding of an ischemic lesion in the caudate nucleus did not explain the semiology found in the patient. The control and removal of all the pro-myoclonic factors mentioned was carried out, along with pharmacological management with levetiracetam, thus achieving control of the symptoms. Discussion: Patients with chronic kidney disease are susceptible to the accumulation of guanidine-type toxic products, which have the potential to produce myoclonus. Furthermore, infections, the use of drugs with pro-myoclonic potential and structural lesions such as cortical ischemia are etiologies that should be considered in the differential diagnosis. The greatest impact on symptoms is observed with the control of the triggering factor and if it persists, pharmacological therapy provides good results. Conclusion: Myoclonus are relatively common movement disorders in chronic kidney disease. Identification of the trigger is crucial for its management along with the use of drugs with anti-myoclonic activity.

Efficacy of opioids and non-opioid analgesics in the treatment of post procedure pain of burned patients: a narrative review

Abstract Introduction Burns are a common trauma that cause acute severe pain in up to 80% of patients. The objective of this narrative review is to evaluate the efficacy of opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, paracetamol, gabapentinoids, ketamine, and lidocaine in the treatment of acute pain in burn victims. Methodology The databases explored were PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials, and OpenGrey. The included randomized, controlled clinical trials assessed the analgesic efficacy of these drugs on hospitalized patients, had no age limit, patients were in the acute phase of the burn injury and were compared to placebo or other analgesic drugs. Studies describing deep sedation, chronic opioid use, chronic pain, and patients taken to reconstructive surgeries were excluded. The Jadad scale was used to evaluate quality. Results Six randomized controlled clinical trials (397 patients) that evaluated the analgesic efficacy of fentanyl (n = 2), nalbuphine (n = 1), ketamine (n = 1), gabapentin (n = 1), and lidocaine (n = 1) to treat post-procedural pain were included. Fentanyl, nalbuphine, and ketamine were effective, while lidocaine was associated with a slight increase in reported pain and gabapentin showed no significant differences. Two studies were of high quality, one was of medium high quality, and three were of low quality. No studies on the efficacy of NSAIDs or paracetamol were found. Conclusion Evidence of efficacy is very limited. Fentanyl, nalbuphine, and ketamine seem to be effective for controlling acute pain in burn patients, whereas gabapentin and lidocaine did not show any efficacy.

The Effect of Neuromodulatory Drugs on the Intensity of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women: A Systematic Review / Efeito de neuromoduladores na intensidade da dor pélvica crônica em mulheres: Revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effect of neuromodulatory drugs on the intensity of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women. Data sources: Searches were carried out in the PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase, Lilacs, OpenGrey, and Clinical Trials databases. Selection of studies: The searches were carried out by two of the authors, not delimiting publication date or original language. The following descriptors were used: chronic pelvic pain in women OR endometriosis, associated with MESH/ENTREE/DeCS: gabapentinoids, gabapentin, amitriptyline, antidepressant, pregabalin, anticonvulsant, sertraline, duloxetine, nortriptyline, citalopram, imipramine, venlafaxine, neuromodulation drugs, acyclic pelvic pain, serotonin, noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants, with the Boolean operator OR. Case reports and systematic reviews were excluded. Data collection: The following data were extracted: author, year of publication, setting, type of study, sample size, intervention details, follow-up time, and results. Data synthesis: A total of 218 articles were found, with 79 being excluded because they were repeated, leaving 139 articles for analysis: 90 were excluded in the analysis of the titles, 37 after reading the abstract, and 4 after reading the articles in full, and 1 could not be found, therefore, leaving 7 articles that were included in the review. Conclusion: Most of the studies analyzed have shown pain improvement with the help of neuromodulators for chronic pain. However, no improvement was found in the study with the highest statistical power. There is still not enough evidence that neuromodulatory drugs reduce the intensity of pain in women with CPP.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de drogas neuromoduladoras na intensidade da dor pélvica crônica em mulheres. Fontes de dados: As buscas foram realizadas nas bases de dados PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase, Lilacs, OpenGrey e Clinical Trials. Seleção dos estudos: As buscas foram realizadas por dois dos autores, não delimitando data de publicação ou idioma de publicação. Foram usados os seguintes descritores: chronic pelvic pain in women OR endometriosis, associated with MESH/ENTREE/DeCS: gabapentinoids, gabapentin, amitriptyline, antidepressant, pregabalin, anticonvulsant, sertraline, duloxetine, nortriptyline, citalopram, imipramine, venlafaxine, neuromodulation drugs, acyclic pelvic pain, serotonin, noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors e tricyclic antidepressants, com o operador booleano OR. Relatos de caso e revisões sistemáticas foram excluídos. Coleta de dados: Foram extraídos os seguintes dados: autor, ano de publicação, local de origem, tipo de estudo, tamanho da amostra, detalhes da intervenção, tempo de seguimento e resultados. Síntese dos dados: Foram encontrados 218 artigos, sendo 79 deles excluídos por serem repetidos, restando 139 artigos para análise, dos quais 90 foram excluídos na análise dos títulos, 37 após a leitura do resumo e 4 após a leitura dos artigos na íntegra, e 1 não foi encontrado, restando, então, 7 artigos que foram incluídos na revisão. Conclusão: A maioria dos estudos analisados mostrou melhora da dor crônica com auxílio de neuromoduladores. No entanto, nenhuma melhora foi encontrada no artigo com maior poder estatístico. Ainda não há evidências suficientes de que drogas neuromoduladoras reduzam a intensidade da dor pélvica crônica em mulheres.

Therapeutic drug monitoring of gabapentin: the applicability in patients with neuropathic pain

Abstract Gabapentin is an antiepileptic drug prescribed for several neuropathic pain conditions. This study aimed to evaluate gabapentin (GAB) trough plasma concentration range and the applicability of therapeutic drug monitoring in patients with neuropathic pain. Fifty-three patients with neuropathic pain, aged 20 to 75, received gabapentin as treatment for at least 7 days. Gabapentin plasma concentration was sampled before GAB administration and quantified by liquid chromatography with a UV detector. GAB trough plasma concentration ranged between 0.40 and 11.94 µg/mL in patients with chronic neuropathic pain. No differences were observed in terms of GAB plasma concentrations between responsive and non-responsive patients. Our data suggest that the reference ranges suggested in the literature for patients with epilepsy should not be used for patients with neuropathic pain. Therapeutic drug monitoring of GAB was shown to be an important tool to assess treatment adherence.

Eficácia e segurança de Pregabalina, Gabapentina, Memantina, Amitriptilina, treinamento físico com exercícios em solo ou aquáticos para tratamento de Fibromialgia: revisão rápida de evidências / Effectiveness and safety of Pregabalin, Gabapentin, Memantine, Amitriptyline, exercises on land or aquatic exercises for Fibromyalgia treatment: rapid evidence review

Tecnologia: Pregabalina, drogas não-opioides disponíveis no SUS, treinamento físico no solo ou em meio aquático. Indicação: Tratamento da fibromialgia. Pergunta: Há diferenças de eficácia e segurança entre a Pregabalina e as outras drogas não opioides ou terapias disponíveis no SUS para tratamento da dor crônica relacionada à fibromialgia? Métodos: Levantamento bibliográfico foi realizado nas bases eletrônicas PUBMED e Cochrane Database, seguindo estratégias de buscas predefinidas, com busca adicional na página eletrônica da Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias em Saúde. Avaliou-se a qualidade metodológica das revisões sistemáticas com Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews versão 2 (AMSTAR-II). Resultados: Foram selecionadas e incluídas 6 revisões sistemáticas. Conclusão: A afirmação de eficácia da Gabapentina, Amitriptilina e Memantina para tratamento da fibromialgia é pouco confiável, pois as evidências são de nível 3, provenientes de ensaios clínicos de baixa qualidade metodológica. Pregabalina é eficaz para reduzir a dor em curto prazo (risco absoluto é 50%, nível 1 de evidência), mas não em longo prazo. O treinamento físico, relatado como única estratégia eficaz para tratamento da fibromialgia nas diretrizes do SUS, não tem efeito clinicamente importante sobre a dor

Technology: Pregabalin, non-opioid drugs available in Brazilian Public Health System, aquatic exercise or exercise on land. Indication: Treatment of fibromyalgia. Question: Are there differences in efficacy and safety between Pregabalin and other non-opioid drugs or therapies available in the SUS for the treatment of chronic pain related to fibromyalgia? Methods: A bibliographic survey was carried out in the electronic databases PUBMED and Cochrane Database, following pre-defined search strategies, with an additional search on the website of the National Commission for the Incorporation of Health Technologies. The methodological quality of systematic reviews was evaluated with Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews version 2 (AMSTAR-II). Results: Six systematic reviews were selected and included. Conclusion: There is not confidence about effectiveness of Gabapentin, Amitriptyline and Memantine for fibromyalgia treatment (level 3 of evidence, from clinical trials of low methodological quality). Pregabalin, in the short term, is effective for reducing pain (absolut risk is 50%, level 1 of evidence), but not in the long term. Physical training, reported as the only effective strategy for treating fibromyalgia in Brazilian Public Health System guidelines, has no clinically important effect on pain.

Use of gabapentin in management of postoperative pain after crosslinking / Uso da gabapentina no manejo da dor pós-operatória do crosslinking

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of gabapentin in the management of neuropathic pain in patients with keratoconus, who were treated with fast (10 minutes) epi-off corneal crosslinking (CXL). Methods: This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized study. The sample comprised patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus, aged 12 years or older, who underwent a bilateral epi-off corneal CXL (fast - 10 minutes) procedure. One group was given placebo orally, and the other group received gabapentin 600 mg orally, both preoperatively. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was applied to record postoperative pain up to 48 hours after procedure. The study was conducted at the Belotto Stock Centro Oftalmológico, in the city of Joaçaba, Santa Catarina, Brazil, from June 2018 to September 2019. Results: At no point in the study significant differences were observed between groups, in terms of pain intensity measured by means of the VAS questionnaire, or of opioid use (Paco®), though opioid consumption was 21% lower in the group receiving gabapentin. Conclusion: We concluded gabapentin has no efficacy in postoperative pain control after epi-off corneal CXL (fast - 10 minutes). Although there was no statistically significant difference, the group that received gabapentin suffered less pain, resulting in lower opioid consumption. UTN number: U1111-1256-0330.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia do uso da gabapentina no manejo da dor neuropática em pacientes portadores de ceratocone submetidos ao tratamento de crosslinking corneano epi-off fast de 10 minutos. Métodos: Tratou-se de pesquisa prospectiva, duplo-cega, randomizada. A amostra foi composta de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral, a partir dos 12 anos de idade, submetidos ao procedimento de crosslinking corneano acelerado epi-off fast de 10 minutos bilateral. Um grupo recebeu placebo via oral e o outro, gabapentina 600mg, via oral, ambos no pré-operatório. A Escala Visual Analógica foi aplicada para registrar a dor pós-operatória até 48 horas após o procedimento. A pesquisa foi realizada no período de junho de 2018 a setembro de 2019 em um centro oftalmológico. Resultados: Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas significativas para ambos os grupos, tanto na intensidade da dor medida pela Escala Visual Analógica, como na redução do uso do opioide (Paco®), em qualquer horário analisado durante um período de 48 horas. No entanto, houve redução de 21% no consumo de opioides pelo grupo que fez uso da gabapentina. Conclusão: A gabapentina não demonstrou eficácia no controle da dor no pós-operatório do crosslinking corneano epi-off fast de 10 minutos. No entanto, observou-se que, mesmo não havendo diferença estatisticamente significativa, houve diminuição da dor no grupo em que foi usada a gabapentina, resultando na redução do consumo de opioides. Número UTN: U1111-1256-0330.

Síndrome de dolor crónico postmastectomía: ¿qué podemos hacer en el período perioperatorio para disminuir su incidencia? / Postmastectomy chronic pain syndrome: what can we do to reduce the incidence?

El síndrome de dolor crónico postmastectomía es frecuente en pacientes sometidas a cirugía por cáncer de mamas, llegando a ser invalidante en casos severos. Existen distintos factores de riesgo para que éste se presente, siendo el dolor agudo postoperatorio el único en el cual podemos intervenir. La importancia de implementar estrategias de prevención en el periodo perioperatorio es fundamental. En la mantención de la anestesia general, la utilización de propofol se asocia con menor incidencia de dolor agudo postoperatorio. El uso de anestésicos locales, ya sea por vía tópica, subcutánea y sistémica, ha demostrado su beneficio para disminuir el dolor agudo. No obstante, solo el uso tópico y endovenoso ha sido útil para reducir el dolor hasta 3 meses postcirugía. Técnicas de analgesia regional, como el bloqueo PEC I y II, bloqueo paravertebral y bloqueo del erector de la espina han demostrado ser útiles para reducir el dolor agudo; pero solo el bloqueo paravertebral ha demostrado su utilidad en reducir el dolor hasta 1 año postcirugía. El uso de gabapentina, pregabalina y ketamina desde el periodo preoperatorio disminuyen la incidencia de dolor agudo postoperatorio. En tanto, la venlafaxina y dexmedetomidina demostraron su utilidad para reducir el dolor crónico.

Postmastectomy chronic pain syndrome is common in patients undergoing surgery for breast cancer, becoming invalidating in severe cases. There are different risk factors for this to occur, with acute post-operative pain being the only one in which we can intervene. The importance of implementing prevention strategies in the perioperative period is essential. In the maintenance of general anesthesia, the use of propofol is associated with a lower incidence of acute post-operative pain. The use of local anesthetics, whether topically, subcutaneously and systemically, has shown its benefit in reducing acute pain. However, only topical and endovenous use has been useful to reduce pain up to 3 months after surgery. Regional analgesia techniques, such as PEC I and II block, paravertebral block, and spinal erector block have been shown to reduce acute pain; but only the paravertebral block has shown its usefulness in reducing pain up to 1 year after surgery. The use of gabapentin, pregabalin and ketamine from the preoperative period reduce the incidence of acute postoperative pain. Meanwhile, venlafaxine and dexmedetomidine proved useful in reducing chronic pain.

Efficacy and safety of preemptive analgesia with gabapentinoids for patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Eficacia y seguridad de la analgesia preventiva con gabapentinoides para pacientes sometidos a cirugía artroscópica de hombro: una revisión sistemática y metanálisis

Abstract: Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of preemptive analgesia with gabapentinoids for patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Material and methods: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect databases. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) comparing gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) with placebo in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopic surgery were retrieved. The primary endpoint was the visual analogue scale (VAS) score at 24 hours and cumulative morphine consumption at 24 hours. The secondary outcomes were complications of nausea/vomiting, sedation and dizziness. After tests for publication bias and heterogeneity among studies were performed, data were aggregated for random-effects models when necessary. Results: Five clinical studies (gabapentin group n = 4 and pregabalin group n = 1) were ultimately included in the meta-analysis. Gabapentinoids were associated with reduced pain scores at 24 hours. Similarly, gabapentinoids were associated with a reduction in cumulative morphine consumption at 24 hours. Furthermore, gabapentinoids can significantly reduce the occurrence of nausea/vomiting. There were no significant differences in the occurrence of sedation and dizziness. Conclusions: Preoperative use of gabapentinoids was able to reduce postoperative pain, total morphine consumption, and morphine-related complications following arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Further studies should determine the optimal dose and whether pregabalin is superior to gabapentin in controlling acute pain after shoulder surgery.

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la analgesia preventiva con gabapentinoides para pacientes sometidos a cirugía artroscópica del hombro. Material y métodos: Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática y metaanálisis conforme a PRISMA en las bases de datos PubMed, Cochrane Library y ScienceDirect. Se recuperaron ensayos controlados aleatorios (RCT) que comparaban los gabapentinoides (gabapentina y pregabalina) con placebo en pacientes sometidos a cirugía artroscópica del hombro. El punto final principal fue la puntuación de la escala analógica visual (VAS) a las 24 horas y el consumo acumulado de morfina a las 24 horas. Los resultados secundarios fueron complicaciones de náuseas/vómitos, sedación y mareos. Después de realizar pruebas de sesgo de publicación y heterogeneidad entre los estudios, se agregaron datos para modelos de efectos aleatorios cuando fue necesario. Resultados: En última instancia, se incluyeron en el metaanálisis cinco estudios clínicos (grupo de gabapentina n = 4 y grupo de pregabalina n = 1). Los gabapentinoides se asociaron con puntuaciones de dolor reducidas a las 24 horas. Del mismo modo, los gabapentinoides se asociaron con una reducción en el consumo acumulado de morfina a las 24 horas. Además, los gabapentinoides pueden reducir significativamente la aparición de náuseas/vómitos. No hubo diferencias significativas en la ocurrencia de sedación y mareos. Conclusiones: El uso preoperatorio de gabapentinoides fue capaz de reducir el dolor postoperatorio, el consumo total de morfina y las complicaciones relacionadas con la morfina después de la cirugía artroscópica del hombro. Otros estudios deben determinar la dosis óptima y si la pregabalina es superior a la gabapentina en el control del dolor agudo después de la cirugía de hombro.

Efectividad de la gabapentina en el dolor tras la cirugía abdominal mayor / Effectiveness of gabapentin for pain management after surgery of the upper abdomen

Introducción: El dolor posoperatorio en la cirugía de tórax y hemiabdomen superior tiene un fuerte componente neuropático, por ello se le asocia con evolución hacia el dolor crónico. Sobre esta base se aplican los anticonvulsivantes como parte del tratamiento multimodal. Objetivos: Evaluar la efectividad analgésica y seguridad de la gabapentina en el tratamiento del dolor tras cirugía de tórax y abdomen superior. Método: Se realizó un estudio causiexperimental, comparativo y prospectivo con los pacientes anunciados para cirugía de abdomen superior y tórax, en el periodo de 2015 a 2017. Se incluyeron 30 pacientes divididos en 2 grupos. El grupo Grupo G: (n=14) recibió tratamiento con gabapentina 100 mg vía oral el día antes de la intervención y cada 12 h en el posoperatorio hasta las 24 h. El Grupo C: (n=16) recibió la analgesia convencional pautada para este tipo de intervención. Resultados: La muestra fue homogénea para la edad y el sexo. Los niveles de intensidad del dolor fueron menores en el grupo de gabapentina y esta diferencia se hace más significativa a las 24 h de la cirugía. Ello se corresponde con menor necesidad de analgesia de rescate (71 por ciento vs 100 por ciento). Las complicaciones asociadas resultaron más frecuentes en el grupo estudio a expensas de las náuseas, aunque sin diferencias significativas. Conclusiones: El empleo de gabapentina en el perioperatorio garantiza mejor control del dolor con escasas complicaciones(AU)

Introduction: Post-operative pain in upper thorax and hemiabdomen surgery has a solid neuropathic component; it is therefore associated with evolution towards chronic pain. On this basis, anticonvulsants are applied as part of the multimodal treatment. Objectives: To evaluate analgesic effectiveness and safety of gabapentin for management of pain after thorax and upper abdomen surgery. Method: A quasiexperimental, comparative and prospective study was conducted with the patients announced for surgery of the upper abdomen and thorax, in the period from 2015 to 2017. Thirty patients divided into 2 groups were included. The Group G (n=14) received treatment with gabapentin 100 mg orally the day before the intervention and every 12 h in the postoperative period until 24 h. The Group C (n=16) received the conventional analgesia prescribed for this type of intervention. Results: The sample was homogeneous regarding age and sex. Pain intensity levels were lower in the gabapentin group and this difference becomes more significant 24 hours after surgery. This corresponds to a lower need for rescue analgesia (71 percent vs. 100 percent). Associated complications were more frequent in the study group at the expense of nausea, although there were no significant differences. Conclusions: The use of gabapentin in the perioperative period guarantees better pain control with few complications(AU)

Vasculopatia livedoide tratada com rivaroxabana / Livedoid vasculopathy treated with rivaroxaban

A vasculopatia livedoide é uma doença rara caracterizada pela oclusão da microvasculatura da derme, originando lesões maculosas que, posteriormente, podem evoluir para úlceras e cicatrizes atróficas. Como um fenômeno vaso-oclusivo, o tratamento geralmente é realizado com antiplaquetários e fibrinolíticos. O presente relato descreve o caso de uma paciente refratária à terapia convencional, que obteve regressão da doença utilizando a rivaroxabana, um fármaco inibidor seletivo do fator Xa. (AU)

Livedoid vasculopathy is a rare disease characterized by occlusion of the dermis microvasculature, leading to spotted lesions that can later develop into ulcers and atrophic scars. As a vaso- occlusive phenomenon, treatment is usually performed with antiplatelet and fibrinolytic agents. The present report describes the case of a female patient refractory to conventional therapy who presented disease remission using rivaroxaban, a selective factor Xa inhibitor drug. (AU)

Effect of melatonin on the daytime sleepiness side-effect of gabapentin in adults patients with neuropathic pain / Efeito da melatonina sobre o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina em pacientes adultos com dor neuropática

Abstract Background and objectives: Gabapentin is an antiepileptic drug. Widely used for the management of neuropathic pain. Although it is known to be well tolerated, somnolence and dizziness are the most frequent adverse effects. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of melatonin on daytime sleepiness side effect of gabapentin, sleep quality and pain intensity of patients with neuropathic pain. Methods: Patients suffering from "neuropathic pain" and planed to receive gabapentin therapy were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received melatonin 3 mg and gabapentin 900 mg orally, group 2 received matching placebo capsule and gabapentin 900 mg. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Pittsburgh sleep quality index for assessment of sleep quality and Verbal Rating Scale were completed at the 0th, 10th and 30th days of treatment. Additive analgesic drug requirements were recorded. Results: Eighty patients were enrolled to the study; age, gender, ratio of additive analgesic consumption, baseline Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburg Sleep Quality index and Verbal Rating Scale scores were similar between the groups. Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores and Verbal Rating Scale scores in Group 1 were significantly lower than group 2 at the 10th day of treatment (p = 0.002, p = 0.003, p = 0.002 respectively). At the 30th day of treatment, Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores and Verbal Rating Scale scores were significantly lower in Group 1 (p = 0.002, p = 0.008 respectively). However, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores did not significantly differ between the groups (p = 0.0566). Conclusions: Melatonin supplementation rapidly and significantly improved daytime sleepiness side-effect of gabapentin, however sleep quality of the patients with neuropathic pain was similar between groups.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Gabapentina é um agente antiepiléptico, amplamente utilizado para o tratamento da dor neuropática. Embora conhecida por ser bem-tolerada, sonolência e tontura são os seus efeitos adversos mais frequentes. Neste estudo, nosso objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da melatonina sobre o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina, a qualidade do sono e a intensidade da dor em pacientes com dor neuropática. Métodos: Os pacientes que sofriam de "dor neuropática" e com prescrição para receber terapia com gabapentina foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos. O Grupo 1 recebeu 3 mg de melatonina e 900 mg de gabapentina por via oral, o Grupo 2 recebeu uma cápsula de placebo correspondente e 900 mg de gabapentina. A escala de sonolência de Epworth (ESS), o índice de qualidade do sono de Pittsburgh para avaliação da qualidade do sono (PSQI) e a escala de avaliação verbal (VRS) foram aplicados nos dias 0, 10 e 30 de tratamento. A necessidade de medicamentos analgésicos adicionais foi registrada. Resultados: Oitenta pacientes foram incluídos no estudo; idade, sexo, quantidade de analgésico adicional consumida e os escores basais de ESS, PSQI e VRS foram semelhantes entre os grupos. Os escores ESS, PSQI e VRS do Grupo 1 foram significativamente menores que os do Grupo 2 no décimo dia de tratamento (p = 0,002, p = 0,003, p = 0,002, respectivamente). No trigésimo dia de tratamento, os escores ESS e VRS foram significativamente menores no Grupo 1 (p = 0,002, p = 0,008, respectivamente). No entanto, os escores PSQI não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos (p = 0,0566). Conclusões: A suplementação de melatonina melhorou de forma rápida e significativa o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina, mas a qualidade do sono dos pacientes com dor neuropática foi semelhante entre os grupos.

Acercamiento a la tos crónica en adultos / An approach to chronic cough

RESUMEN La tos crónica en los adultos puede ser causada por muchas causas, existen cuatro principales: el síndrome de tos de la vía aérea superior, enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico, reflujo laringofaríngeo, asma bronquial, y bronquitis eosinofílica no asmática. Todos los pacientes deben evaluarse clínicamente con espirometria, y comenzar con tratamiento empírico. Otras causas potenciales incluyen el uso de inhibidores de la enzima convertidora de la angiotensina, cambios medioambientales, uso del tabaco, enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, y la apnea obstructiva del sueño. La radiografía del tórax puede orientar hacia causas infecciosas, inflamatorias, y malignas. Los pacientes con tos crónica refractaria pueden remitirse a la consulta especializada de un neumólogo u otorrinolaringólogo, además de un ensayo terapéutico con gabapentin, pregabalin, y psicoterapia.

ABSTRACT Although chronic cough in adults can be caused by many etiologies, four conditions account for most cases: upper airway cough syndrome, gastro-esophageal reflux disease, also known as laryngo- pharyngeal reflux disease, bronchial asthma, and non-asthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis. All patients should be evaluated clinically with spirometry, and empiric treatment should be initiated. Other potential causes include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor use, environmental triggers, tobacco use, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. Chest radiography can rule out concerning infectious, inflammatory, and malignant thoracic conditions. Patients with refractory chronic cough should be referred to a pulmonologist or otolaryngologist in addition to a therapeutic trial of gabapentin, pregabalin, and psychotherapy.

Pain management in children with erythromelalgia: case report / Tratamento da dor em criança com eritromelalgia: relato de caso

Abstract Erythromelalgia is a neuropathic pain syndrome due to an autosomal dominant gene, characterized by erythema, increased skin temperature and burning pain in hands and feet, whose treatment is often unsatisfactory. In this paper, we report a case of a 9 years old female patient whose first episode of burning pain, erythema and edema of the hands, without triggering factors, had instant relief after immersion in cold water. She presented with systemic arterial hypertension and had seizures. The patient was treated with gabapentin (150 mg.8 h−1) and amitriptyline (12.5 mg) orally, intravenous lidocaine infusion (120 mg), without relieving pain complaints. Due to the lack of response to the proposed treatment, it was decided to gradually reduce these medications and to introduce carbamazepine (200 mg) orally and, after 4 days of treatment, there was complete relief of the manifestations.

Resumo Eritromelalgia é uma síndrome dolorosa neuropática decorrente de gene autossômico dominante, caracterizada por eritema, aumento da temperatura da pele e dor em queimação, em mãos e pés, e o tratamento é muitas vezes insatisfatório. Neste caso, está o relato de uma paciente do sexo feminino, com nove anos e primeiro episódio de dor em queimação, eritema e edema em mãos, sem fatores desencadeantes, com alívio instantâneo após imersão em água fria. Apresentava hipertensão arterial sistêmica e teve crises convulsivas. Foi tratada com gabapentina (150 mg.8 h-1) e amitriptilina (12,5 mg) via oral, lidocaína (120 mg) venosa em infusão, sem alívio das queixas álgicas. Devido à ausência de resposta ao tratamento proposto, decidiu-se redução gradativa dessas medicações e introdução de carbamazepina (200 mg) via oral e após quatro dias de tratamento houve alívio completo das manifestações.

Utilização de lente de contato escleral na abordagem terapêutica da úlcera neurotrófica corneana / Use of scleral contact lens in the therapeutic approach of corneal neurotrophic ulcer

Resumo Neste artigo descrevemos como conduzimos com sucesso um caso de úlcera neurotrófica não responsivo à terapia convencional com o uso de lente de contato escleral e as vantagens desta terapêutica.

Abstract In this paper we describe how we successfully conducted a case of neurotrophic ulcer not responsive to conventional therapy using scleral contact lens and the advantages of this therapy.

Perioperative gabapentin and pregabalin in cardiac surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Gabapentina e pregabalina no período perioperatório em cirurgia cardíaca: uma revisão sistemática e metanálise

Abstract Objectives: Sternotomy for cardiac surgeries causes significant postoperative pain and when not properly managed may cause significant morbidity. As neuropathic pain is a significant component here, gabapentin and pregabalin may be effective in these patients and may reduce postoperative opioid consumption. The purpose of this systematic review was to find out efficacy of gabapentin and pregabalin in acute postoperative pain after cardiac surgery. Methods: Published prospective human randomized clinical trials, which compared preoperative and/or postoperative gabapentin/pregabalin with placebo or no treatment for postoperative pain management after cardiac surgery has been included in this review. Results: Four RCTs each for gabapentin and pregabalin have been included in this systematic review. Three gabapentin and two pregabalin studies reported decrease in opioid consumption in cardiac surgical patients while one gabapentin and two pregabalin studies did not. Three RCTs each for gabapentin and pregabalin reported lower pain scores both during activity and rest. The drugs are not associated with any significant complications. Conclusion: Despite lower pain scores in the postoperative period, there is insufficient evidence to recommend routine use of gabapentin and pregabalin to reduce opioid consumption in the cardiac surgical patients.

Resumo Objetivos: A esternotomia para cirurgias cardíacas causa dor intensa no pós-operatório e quando não tratada adequadamente pode causar morbidade grave. Como nesse caso a dor neuropática é uma componente importante, gabapentina e pregabalina podem ser eficazes nesses pacientes e podem reduzir o consumo de opioides no pós-operatório. O objetivo desta revisão sistemática foi avaliar a eficácia de gabapentina e pregabalina na dor aguda após cirurgia cardíaca. Métodos: Foram incluídos nesta revisão estudos clínicos prospectivos e randômicos com humanos, que compararam o uso de gabapentina/pregabalina nos períodos pré- e/ou pós-operatório com placebo ou nenhum tratamento para o controle da dor no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. Resultados: Quatro ECRs de gabapentina e pregabalina foram incluídos nesta revisão sistemática. Três estudos de gabapentina e dois de pregabalina relataram diminuição do consumo de opioides em pacientes cirúrgicos cardíacos; um estudo de gabapentina e dois de pregabalina não relataram. Três ECRs de gabapentina e pregabalina relataram escores menores de dor, durante a atividade e o repouso. Os medicamentos não estão associados a complicações significativas. Conclusão: Embora os escores de dor tenham sido menores no pós-operatório, não há evidências suficientes para recomendar o uso rotineiro de gabapentina e pregabalina para reduzir o consumo de opioides em pacientes cirúrgicos cardíacos.

Effect of preoperative gabapentin on pain intensity and development of chronic pain after carpal tunnel syndrome surgical treatment in women: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study / Efeito da gabapentina pré-operatória na intensidade da dor e desenvolvimento de dor crônica após o tratamento cirúrgico da síndrome do túnel do carpo em mulheres: estudo randomizado duplo-cego controlado com placebo

ABSTRACT CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES: Effective postoperative analgesia is important for reducing the incidence of chronic pain. This study evaluated the effect of preoperative gabapentin on postoperative analgesia and the incidence of chronic pain among patients undergoing carpal tunnel syndrome surgical treatment. DESIGN AND SETTINGS: Randomized, double-blind controlled trial, Federal University of São Paulo Pain Clinic. METHODS: Forty patients aged 18 years or over were randomized into two groups: Gabapentin Group received 600 mg of gabapentin preoperatively, one hour prior to surgery, and Control Group received placebo. All the patients received intravenous regional anesthesia comprising 1% lidocaine. Midazolam was used for sedation if needed. Paracetamol was administered for postoperative analgesia as needed. Codeine was used additionally if the paracetamol was insufficient. The following were evaluated: postoperative pain intensity (over a six-month period), incidence of postoperative neuropathic pain (over a six-month period), need for intraoperative sedation, and use of postoperative paracetamol and codeine. The presence of neuropathic pain was established using the DN4 (Douleur Neuropathique 4) questionnaire. Complex regional pain syndrome was diagnosed using the Budapest questionnaire. RESULTS: No differences in the need for sedation, control over postoperative pain or incidence of chronic pain syndromes (neuropathic or complex regional pain syndrome) were observed. No differences in postoperative paracetamol and codeine consumption were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative gabapentin (600 mg) did not improve postoperative pain control, and did not reduce the incidence of chronic pain among patients undergoing carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.

RESUMO CONTEXTO E OBJETIVOS: Analgesia pós-operatória eficaz é importante para reduzir a incidência de dor crônica. Este estudo avaliou o efeito da gabapentina pré-operatória na analgesia pós-operatória e na incidência de dor crônica em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia para tratamento da síndrome do túnel do carpo. DESENHO E LOCAL: Randomizado, duplo cego, Universidade Federal de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Os 40 pacientes com 18 anos ou mais de idade foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: o Grupo Gabapentina recebeu 600 mg de gabapentina no pré-operatório uma hora antes da cirurgia, e o Grupo Controle recebeu placebo. Todos os pacientes receberam anestesia regional intravenosa com lidocaína a 1%. Midazolam foi utilizado para sedação, se necessário. Paracetamol foi administrado para analgesia pós-operatória, conforme necessário, e codeína, se o paracetamol fosse insuficiente. Foram avaliados: a intensidade da dor pós-operatória (durante seis meses), a incidência de dor neuropática pós-operatória (durante seis meses), a necessidade de sedação intra-operatória e o uso de paracetamol e codeína no pós-operatório. A presença de dor neuropática foi estabelecida utilizando-se o questionário DN4 (dor neuropática 4). Síndrome de dor regional complexa foi diagnosticada através do questionário Budapeste. RESULTADOS: Não foram observadas diferenças na necessidade de sedação, no controle da dor pós-operatória e na incidência de síndromes dolorosas crônicas (neuropáticas ou síndrome de dor regional complexa). Não foram observadas diferenças no consumo de paracetamol e codeína. CONCLUSÕES: Gabapentina pré-operatória (600 mg) não melhorou o controle da dor pós-operatória e não reduziu a incidência de dor crônica em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia para tratamento da síndrome do túnel do carpo.