Clinical Characteristics and Treatment of Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm(BPDCN).@*METHODS@#The clinical features, bone marrow morphology and immunophenotyping, treatment and prognosis of 4 patients with BPDCN were analyzed retrospectively.@*RESULTS@#4 patients had bone marrow， spleen and lymph nodes involvement， 2 patients had skin lesions， and 3 patients had central nervous system infiltration． Tailing phenomenon of abnormally cells could be seen in bone marrow. The immunophenotyping showed that CD56, CD4 and CD123 expression was observed in 4 patients， and CD304 in 3 patients． One patient refused chemotherapy and died early. Both patients achieved complete remission after the initial treatment with DA+VP regimen, 1 of them achieved complete remission after recurrence by using the same regimen again． One patient failed to respond to reduced dose of DA+VP chemotherapy, and then achieved complete remission with venetoclax+azacitidine.@*CONCLUSION@#The malignant cells in BPDCN patients often infiltrate bone marrow, spleen and lymph nodes, and have specical phenotypes, with poor prognosis. The treatment should take into account both myeloid and lymphatic systems. The treatment containing new drugs such as BCL-2 inhibitors combined with demethylation drugs is worth trying.

Perfil de liberación de biomarcadores miocárdicos en pacientes con enfermedades hemato-oncológicas que reciben trasplante de progenitores hematopoyéticos / Profile or myocardial biomarkers release in patients with hemato-oncological diseases who receive hematopoietic stem cell transplantation / Perfil de liberação de biomarcadores miocárdicos em pacientes com doenças hemato-oncológicas que recebem transplante de células-tronco hematopoéticas

Introducción: las enfermedades cardiovasculares (CV) son la primera causa de muerte en quienes sobreviven al cáncer. Aunque el trasplante de progenitores hematopoyéticos (TPH) se asocia con grados variables de cardiotoxicidad, estas complicaciones han sido escasamente caracterizadas. Objetivo: analizar el perfil de liberación de biomarcadores miocárdicos como potenciales indicadores subclínicos de cardiotoxicidad en pacientes sometidos a TPH. Material y método: estudio descriptivo, analítico, prospectivo transversal y unicéntrico, reclutando pacientes derivados a la policlínica de cardio-oncología, con indicación de TPH en octubre de 2018-marzo de 2020. Se realizaron controles clínicos, ECG, bioquímicos (troponina I TnI y péptido natriurético del tipo BBNP) e imagenológicos según algoritmo de seguimiento. Las variables discretas se presentan como n (%) y las continuas mediante media ± DE o mediana RIQ. Los valores evolutivos de biomarcadores séricos se compararon mediante test de Friedman. La fracciónde eyección del VI (FEVI) basal se comparó con la de los 3 meses del TPH mediante test de Wilcoxon. Resultados: se incluyeron 19 pacientes, 37% mujeres, de 43,8 ± 15,7 años. No se detectaron modificaciones significativas de la FEVI en los controles evolutivos. En ningún caso se observó aumento de la TnI. Los valores de BNP aumentaron en 6 pacientes (32%), con diferencias significativas al mes postrasplante (basal: 13,6 1;6,1-30,9 vs. primer mes: 38,9 16,3-120,0 pg/ml, p = 0,036); con una mayor elevación en aquellos pacientes que recibieron antimetabolitos vs. otros fármacos (basal: 13,6 1;6,1-30,9 vs. al primer mes: 67,0 ;21,3-174,9 pg/ml, p = 0,039). El aumento de BNP no se asoció con el riesgo CV. Conclusión: la liberación de BNP posterior al TPH es un fenómeno frecuente (32% de los pacientes), alcanza un máximo al mes, independientemente de la FEVI. El subgrupo de pacientes que recibió antimetabolitos presentó una mayor liberación precoz de BNP.

Introduction: cardiovascular (CV) diseases are the leading cause of death in those who survive cancer. Although hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is associated with diverse grades of cardiotoxicity, these complications have been poorly characterized. Objective: to analyze the release profile of myocardial biomarkers as a potential subclinical marker of cardiotoxicity in patients undergoing HSCT. Material and method: descriptive, analytical, prospective, cross-sectional, single-center study, recruiting patients referred to the cardio-oncology polyclinic, with indication for HSCT in October 2018-March 2020. Clinical, ECG, biochemical and imaging controls were performed according to the algorithm of follow-up. The evolutionary values of serum biomarkers were compared using the Friedman test. Baseline LVEF was compared with that of 3 months after HSCT using the Wilcoxon test. Results: 19 patients were included, 37% women, aged 43.8 ± 15.7 years. No changes in LVEF were detected. In no case was an increase in TnI observed. BNP values increased in 6 patients (32%), with significant differences one month after transplantation (baseline: 13.6 ;6.1-30.9 vs. first month: 38.9 ;16.3-120.0, p = 0.036), detecting a greater elevation in those patients who received antimetabolites vs. other rugs (baseline: 13.6 ;6.1-30.9 vs. at the first month: 67.0 21.3-174.0, p = 0.039). The increase in BNP was not associated with CV risk. Conclusion: BNP release after HSCT is frequent (32% of our patients), reaching a maximum at one month, regardless of LVEF. The subgroup of patients who received antimetabolites had a greater early release of BNP.

Introdução: as doenças cardiovasculares (CV) são a principal causa de morte em pessoas que sobrevivem ao câncer. Embora o transplante de células-tronco hematopoéticas (TCTH) esteja associado à diverso grado de cardiotoxicidade, essas complicações têm sido mal caracterizadas. Objetivo: analisar o perfil de liberação de biomarcadores miocárdicos como potenciais marcadores subclínicos de cardiotoxicidade em pacientes submetidos ao TCTH. Material e método: estudo descritivo, analítico, prospectivo, transversal, unicéntrico, com recrutamento de pacientes encaminhados à policlínica de cardio-oncologia, com indicação de TCTH de outubro de 2018 a março de 2020. Foram realizados controles clínicos, eletrocardiográficos, bioquímicos e de imagem de acordo com o algoritmo de acompanhamento. Os valores evolutivos dos biomarcadores séricos foram comparados pelo teste de Friedman. A FEVE basal foi comparada com a de 3 meses após o TCTH usando o teste de Wilcoxon. Resultados: foram incluídos 19 pacientes, 37% mulheres, com idade de 43,8 ± 15,7 anos. Nenhuma mudança na LVEF foi detectada. Em nenhum caso foi observado um aumento de TnI. Os valores de BNP aumentaram um mês após o transplante (linha de base: 13,6 6,1-30,9; vs. primeiro mês: 38,9 16,3-120,0, p = 0,036), se detectou uma maior elevação nos pacientes que receberam antimetabólitos vs. outros medicamentos (linha de base: 13,6 ;6,1-30,9; vs. no primeiro mês: 67,0 ;21,3-174,0;, p = 0,039). O aumento do BNP não foi associado ao risco CV. Conclusão: a liberação do BNP após o TCTH é frequente (32% de nossos pacientes), podendo chegar a no máximo um mês, independente da FEVE. O subgrupo de pacientes que recebeu antimetabólitos apresentou maior liberação precoce de BNP.

Resignificación de la vida por parte de jóvenes sobrevivientes al cáncer hematológico / Resignification of Life by Young People Survivors of Hematologic Cancer

Introducción: Los jóvenes con enfermedades oncológicas enfrentan dificultades durante los períodos de diagnóstico, tratamiento y recuperación. Estos procesos complejos cargados de experiencias vitales inusitadas producen la transformación de su conciencia y los lleva a construir nuevos significados en la manera de comprender, relacionarse y actuar en el mundo que los rodea. Objetivo: Comprender el (re)significado de la vida a partir de la experiencia de los jóvenes que sobrevivieron al cáncer hematológico. Métodos: Estudio cualitativo, que utilizó la Teoría Fundamentada en Datos como metodología y el referencial de la Teoría de la Complejidad de Morin. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad a 12 adolescentes sobrevivientes de cáncer hematológico. El tamaño de muestra fue determinado al alcanzar nivel de saturación. El análisis fue simultáneo durante la recolección de los datos, mediante codificación abierta, axial y selectiva según lo señalan Strauss y Corbin. Resultados: Emergieron dos categorías: Reorganizando su vida por medio de cambios y aprendizajes para vencer al cáncer y, Asumiendo una mejor comprensión y compromiso con los demás y consigo mismo. Conclusiones: Las experiencias vividas por jóvenes sobrevivientes que padecen de cáncer modifican su forma de vivir y se tornan más comprensivos con el sufrimiento que ocasiona la enfermedad. Esta situación los hace más solidarios y comprometidos con su contexto social sobre todo con su familia y con pacientes oncológicos(AU)

Introduction: Young people with oncological diseases face difficulties during the periods of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. These complex processes loaded with unusual life experiences produce the transformation of their consciousness and lead them to construct new meanings in the way that they understand, relate and act in the world around them. Objective: To understand the (re)signification of life from the experience of young survivors of hematological cancer. Methods: A qualitative study was carried out, using the data driven theory as the methodology and Morin's complexity theory as the referent. In-depth interviews were conducted with twelve adolescent hematologic cancer survivors. The sample size was determined by reaching the saturation level. The analysis was simultaneous during data collection, using open, axial and selective coding according to Strauss and Corbin. Results: Two categories emerged: 1. reorganizing their life through changes and learning to overcome cancer and 2. assuming a better understanding and commitment to others and to themselves. Conclusions: The experiences lived by young cancer survivors modify their way of living as they become more understanding of the suffering caused by the disease. This situation makes them more supportive and committed to their social context, especially with their family and with cancer patients(AU)

CAR T cells redirected against tumor-specific antigen glycoforms: can low-sugar antigens guarantee a sweet success? / 医学前沿

Immune-based therapies have experienced a pronounced breakthrough in the past decades as they acquired multiple US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals for various indications. To date, six chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapies have been permitted for the treatment of certain patients with relapsed/refractory hematologic malignancies. However, several clinical trials of solid tumor CAR-T therapies were prematurely terminated, or they reported life-threatening treatment-related damages to healthy tissues. The simultaneous expression of target antigens by healthy organs and tumor cells is partly responsible for such toxicities. Alongside targeting tumor-specific antigens, targeting the aberrantly glycosylated glycoforms of tumor-associated antigens can also minimize the off-tumor effects of CAR-T therapies. Tn, T, and sialyl-Tn antigens have been reported to be involved in tumor progression and metastasis, and their expression results from the dysregulation of a series of glycosyltransferases and the endoplasmic reticulum protein chaperone, Cosmc. Moreover, these glycoforms have been associated with various types of cancers, including prostate, breast, colon, gastric, and lung cancers. Here, we discuss how underglycosylated antigens emerge and then detail the latest advances in the development of CAR-T-based immunotherapies that target some of such antigens.

Analysis of Agranulocytosis Time and Its Influencing Factors in Patients with Hematological Malignancies Treated with rhIL-11 combined rhG-CSF / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the intervention effect of recombinant human interleukin-11 (rhIL-11) and recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) on the duration and severity of agranulocytosis in patients with hematological malignancies after chemotherapy, and to analyze the influencing factors.@*METHODS@#The data of hematological malignancy patients treated with rhIL-11 and rhG-CSF after chemotherapy in the hematology department of The First Hospital of Lanzhou University from July 2017 to July 2020 were collected retrospectively. The duration and differences of agranulocytosis in differeent groups were compared by univariate analysis, and the influencing factors of agranulocytosis duration were further analyzed by multiple regression analysis.@*RESULTS@#The duration of agranulocytosis in 97 patients was 6.47±2.93 days. The results of univariate analysis showed that there were no statistical differences in the duration of agranulocytosis among patients with different sex, age, height, weight, body surface area, body mass index (BMI), dose of rhG-CSF, dose of rhIL-11, spontaneous bleeding after administration of rhG-CSF and rhIL-11, and the duration of agranulocytosis in patients with different red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin(HGB) level, platelet count (PLT) and absolute neutrophil count (ANC), before administration of rhG-CSF and rhIL-11. There were significant differences in agranulocytosis time among patients with different disease types, chemotherapy cycle, fever after rhG-CSF and rhIL-11 administration, and different white blood cell count (WBC) baseline level before rhG-CSF and rhIL-11 administration (P＜0.05). Compared with patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) had the longest duration of agranulocytosis, which was 7.07±3.05 d. Compared with patients with chemotherapy cycles of 4－6 and ≥7, patients with total chemotherapy cycle of 1－3 had the shortest duration of agranulocytosis, which was 5.25±2.48 d. Compared with patients without fever, patients with fever within 1 day after administration of cytokines and patients with fever within 2-5 days after administration of cytokines, the duration of agranulocytosis was the longest in patients with fever 6 days after administration of cytokines, which was 8.85±2.85 d. Compared with patients with WBC baseline <1.0×109/L, (1.0－1.9)×109/L and (2.0－3.9)×109/L, patients with WBC baseline ≥4.0×109/L had the shortest duration of agranulocytosis, which was 4.50±2.56 d. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that chemotherapy cycle, different fever after administration of rhG-CSF and rhIL-11, diagnosis of ALL and NHL, and WBC baseline level before administration of rhG-CSF and rhIL-11 were the influencing factors of the duration of agranulocytosis (P＜0.001).@*CONCLUSION@#The risk of prolonged agranulocytosis is higher in patients diagnosed with AML, with more chemotherapy cycles, lower WBC baseline before cytokines administration and fever later after cytokines administration, which should be paid more attention to.

Impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 on Prognosis and Treatment Strategies in Patients with Hematological Malignancy--Review / 中国实验血液学杂志

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread rapidly worldwide since outbreak in December 2019, and become a global public health crisis. Patients with hematological malignancy concurrently infected with COVID-19 are often associated with severe even fatal complications, due to low basic immune function, high intensity of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and slow immune reconstruction post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and their treatment strategies, such as anti-infective therapy, blood transfusion, and the use of granulocyte colony stimulating factor need to be adjusted. The characteristics of patients, chemotherapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and other clinical factors may affect the prognosis of patients with hematological malignancy concurrently infected with COVID-19. Herein, the latest research progress is reviewed.

Sintomas de Fadiga e Força Muscular Respiratória de Pacientes Onco-hematológicos em Quimioterapia / Fatigue Symptoms and Respiratory Muscle Strength of Onco-hematological Patients in Chemotherapy / Síntomas de Fatiga y Fuerza de los Músculos Respiratorios de Pacientes Onco-hematológicos en Quimioterapia

Introdução: Quando exposto à quimioterapia, o paciente onco-hematológico está suscetível a várias complicações físicas e respiratórias, associadas aos efeitos colaterais dessas substâncias. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto de força muscular respiratória quando comparada com os níveis de normalidade e sintomatologia de fadiga, durante recebimento do tratamento quimioterapêutico de pacientes onco-hematológicos. Método: Pesquisa observacional do tipo transversal, realizada por meio de questionário referente aos dados sociodemográficos e de manovacuometria com dispositivo analógico. Resultados: A pesquisa foi constituída por uma população composta de 19 pessoas, 57,9% mulheres e 42,9% homens. A idade média foi de 51,3 anos. A predominância diagnóstica foi leucemia, seguida por linfoma e mieloma. Entre as queixas, a dispneia esteve presente em 31,6% dos casos, sendo a quimioterapia o protocolo escolhido para todos os participantes. Durante a avaliação, 52,6% relataram cansaço e, entre eles, 70% relataram sentir-se melhor quando em repouso, seguidos por 50% impedidos de realizar suas atividades diárias. Ex-fumantes representaram 70% da população pesquisada e 84,2% não praticavam atividades físicas. Na amostra, 62,4% apresentaram frequência respiratória normal, predominando o padrão respiratório apical e o tórax longilíneo. Foram observados resultados significativos na diminuição de Pimáx e Pemáx, com valores estatisticamente conclusivos de p<0,001 nas duas variáveis. Conclusão: O quadro da doença, os tratamentos utilizados e as internações a que essa população foi submetida provocaram a diminuição da força muscular respiratória e o aumento dos sintomas de fadiga.

Introduction: When exposed to chemotherapy, the onco-hematological patient is susceptible to several physical and respiratory complications, associated with side effects of these substances. Objective: Evaluate the impact on respiratory muscle strength when compared to the levels of normality and symptoms of fatigue of onco-hematological patients during chemotherapy treatment. Method: Observational cross-sectional study performed trough a social demographic questionnaire and manovacuometry with analogical device. Results: The study population consisted of 19 subjects, 57.9% women and 42.9% men. The average age was 51.3 years old. The predominant diagnoses were leukemia, followed by lymphoma and myeloma. Among the complaints, dyspnea was present in 31.6% of the cases, chemotherapy was the protocol of choice for all the participants. During the evaluation, 52.6% reported tiredness, and among them, 70%, claimed they feel better when at rest, followed by 50% precluded from performing their daily activities. Ex-smokers represented 70% of the study population and 84.2% did not practice physical activities. 62.4 % of the sample presented normal respiratory frequency, with the apical breathing pattern and predominant slender thorax. Significant results were observed in decreasing MIP and MEP with statistically conclusive values of p<0.001 for the two variables. Conclusion: The disease, the treatments and the hospitalizations this population was submitted provoked the reduction of the respiratory muscle strength and increase of the fatigue symptoms

Introducción: Cuando se expone a quimioterapia, el paciente oncohematológico es susceptible a diversas complicaciones físicas y respiratorias, asociadas a los efectos secundarios de estas sustancias. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de la fuerza de los músculos respiratorios en comparación con los niveles de normalidad y síntomas de fatiga, mientras reciben tratamiento de quimioterapia de pacientes oncohematológicos. Método: Investigación observacional transversal, realizada mediante un cuestionario referente a datos sociodemográficos y realizando manovacuometría con dispositivo analógico. Resultados: La investigación consistió en una población compuesta por 19 personas, 57,9% mujeres y 42,9% hombres. La edad media fue de 51,3 años. El predominio diagnóstico fue la leucemia, seguida del linfoma y el mieloma. Entre las quejas, la disnea estuvo presente en el 31,6% de los casos, siendo la quimioterapia el protocolo elegido para todos los participantes. Durante la evaluación, el 52,6% refirió cansancio y, entre ellos, el 70% refirió sentirse mejor en reposo, seguido del 50% incapaz de realizar sus actividades diarias. Los exfumadores representaron el 70% de la población encuestada y el 84,2% no practicaba actividad física. En la muestra, el 62,4% tenía frecuencia respiratoria normal, con predominio de patrón respiratorio apical y tórax longilineal. Se observaron resultados significativos en la disminución de Pimax y Pmax, con valores estadísticamente concluyentes de p<0,001 en ambas variables. Conclusión: Debido a la enfermedad, los tratamientos utilizados y las hospitalizaciones a las que esta población fueron sometidos provocaron la disminución de la fuerza de los músculos respiratorios y aumento de los síntomas de fatiga

Research Advances in the Mechanisms of BRD4 and Its Inhibitors in Hematologic Malignancies--Review / 中国实验血液学杂志

Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is one of the most important members in the bromodomain and extra terminal domain(BET) family, it plays an important role in cellular physiology in human body, such as cell cycles, cell proliferation, and immune response. Recent studies have shown that BRD4 is associated with occurrence and development of acute myeloblastic leukemia, multiple myeloma and lymphoma. The mechanisms of BRD4 in hematologic malignancies including the regulation of c-Myc expression, and participation of the composition of super-enhancer, etc. At present, many kinds of inhibitors have been developed to target inhibit BRD4 for therapy in hematologic malignancies, and some of BRD4 inhibitors have entered phase Ⅱ clinical trials, which suggested that BRD4 inhibitors are expected to become new therapeutic agents for hematologic malignancies. In this review, the research advance of BRD4 and BRD4 inhibitors in hematologic malignancies was summarized briefly.

Single Center Analysis of Bloodstream Infection Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis in Patients with Hematological Malignancies in the Tropics / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the characteristics, prognosis and risk factors of bloodstream infection in patients with hematological malignancies in the tropics, so as to provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of bloodstream infection.@*METHODS@#The clinical features, blood culture results and prognosis of patients with bloodstream infection in patients with hematological malignancies admitted to Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital were retrospectively studied.@*RESULTS@#The most common primary infection site of the 81 patients with hematological malignancies was lung (46.91%), followed by PICC (11.11%). The detection rate of Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria in the blood culture was 60.98% and 30.02%, respectively. Coagulase-negative staphylococci was the most common Gram-positive bacteria resulting in bloodstream infection in our study. Of the Gram-negatives, Klebsiella pneumoniae (34.38%) was predominant, followed by Escherichia coli (18.75%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.75%). Gram-positive bacteria was highly sensitive (100%) to vancomycin, linezolid and tigecycline. Study showed that Gram-negative bacteria had low sensitive to quinolones, in particular, the resistance rate of Escherichia coli to quinolones was as high as 83.33%. In terms of overall survival (OS), the 30-days OS of patients with Gram-negative and Gram-positive septicemia was 77.42% and 92.00%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that septic shock (P=0.001, RR=269.27) was an independent risk factor for 30-day mortality, and remission status (P=0.027, RR=0.114) was an independent predictor of a favourable outcome of bloodstream infection in patients with hematological malignancies.@*CONCLUSION@#Gram-positive bacteria are the main pathogens causing bloodstream infections in patients with hematological malignancies in the tropics. Improving the care of PICC is an important measure to reduce the incidence of bloodstream infection in patients with hematological malignancies in the tropics. A correct treatment relieving disease and effective prevention and treatment of septic shock can reduce mortality of patients with bloodstream infection in patients with hematological malignancies in the tropics.

Pediatric expert consensus on the application of intravenous immunoglobulin in children with hematological/neoplastic diseases / 中国当代儿科杂志

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been widely used in chemotherapy for hematological malignancies, targeted therapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; however, there are still no available guidelines or consensus statements on the application of IVIG in pediatric hematological/neoplastic diseases at present in China and overseas. This consensus is developed based on the research advances in the application of IVIG in pediatric hematological/neoplastic diseases across the world and provides detailed recommendations for the clinical application of IVIG in pediatric hematological/neoplastic diseases and the prevention and treatment of related adverse reactions.

Differences between the oral changes presented by patients with solid and hematologic tumors during the chemotherapeutic treatment

Abstract Objective: This study sought to identify the differences between the oral changes presented by patients with solid and hematologic tumors during chemotherapeutic treatment. Methodology: This is an observational, prospective and quantitative study using direct documentation by follow-up of 105 patients from 0 to 18 years using the modified Oral Assessment Guide (OAG). Of the 105 patients analyzed, 57 (54.3%) were boys with 7.3 years (±5.2) mean age. Hematologic neoplasms accounted for 51.4% of all cases. Results: Voice, lips, tongue, and saliva changes were not significantly different (p>0.05) between patients with solid or hematologic tumors and during the follow-up. From the 6th until the 10th week of chemotherapeutic treatment alterations in swallowing function, in the mucous membrane (buccal mucosa and palate), in the labial mucosa, and in the gingiva occurred and were distributed differently between the two tumors groups (p<0.05). The main alterations were observed in patients with hematologic tumors. Conclusion: It was concluded that the oral changes during the chemotherapeutic treatment occurred especially in swallowing function, in the mucous membrane, in the labial mucosa and in the gingiva, and these alterations were found mainly in patients with hematologic tumors.

Quimioterapia intratecal: percepções e significados atribuídos por pacientes com câncer hematológico / Intrathecal chemotherapy: perceptions and meanings attributed by patients with hematological cancer / Quimioterapia intratecal: percepciones y signficados atribuidos por pacientes com cáncer hematológico

Objetivo: analisar os significados e as percepções dos pacientes submetidos à quimioterapia intratecal sobre esse tratamento. Método: estudo descritivo de abordagem quantiqualitativa, desenvolvida com 13 participantes atendidos em uma central de quimioterapia de um hospital universitário do interior de Minas Gerais, entre os anos de 2015 a 2016, cujos dados, obtidos por meio de entrevistas, foram submetidos à análise do discurso do sujeito coletivo. Aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da instituição campo do estudo. Resultados: dos dados codificados emergiram cinco discursos: desconhecimento do tratamento, dor, ansiedade, fé e esperança. Conclusão: a quimioterapia intratecal é desconhecida pelos pacientes em tratamento, causando ansiedade, dor e reações adversas as quais trazem prejuízo para a qualidade de vida desses indivíduos. Com isso criam-se mecanismos de enfrentamento da doença por meio da fé e da esperança.

Objective: analyze the meanings and perceptions of patients undergoing intrathecal chemotherapy about this treatment Method: qualitative and descriptive study carried out with 13 participants attended at a Chemotherapy Center of a University Hospital in the interior of Minas Gerais, from 2015 to 2016, whose data were submitted to the analysis of the collective subject discourse. Approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the study development institution. Results: the information obtained through the interviews was coded and five discourses emerged: lack of treatment, pain, anxiety, faith and hope. Conclusion: intrathecal chemotherapy is unknown to patients undergoing treatment, causing anxiety, pain and adverse reactions that impair their quality of life. This creates mechanisms for coping with the disease through faith and hope.

Objetivo: analizar los significados y las percepciones de los pacientes sometidos a quimioterapia intratecal sobre este tratamiento. Método: estudio de enfoque cuantitativo y descriptivo desarrollado con 13 participantes atendidos en un Centro de Quimioterapia de un Hospital Universitario en el interior de Minas Gerais, entre 2015 y 2016, cuyos datos fueron sometidos al análisis del discurso del sujeto colectivo. Aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación de la institución de desarrollo del estudio. Resultados: la información obtenida a través de las entrevistas fue codificada y surgieron cinco discursos: falta de tratamiento, dolor, ansiedad, fe y Esperanza. Conclusión: la quimioterapia intratecal es desconocida para los pacientes sometidos a tratamiento, lo que causa ansiedad, dolor y reacciones adversas que deterioran su calidad de vida. Esto crea mecanismos para hacer frente a la enfermedad a través de la fe y la esperanza.

Neoplasia de células dendríticas plasmocitoides blásticas con respuesta inicial a quimioterapia y recaída en sistema nervioso central: caso clínico / Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm with complete clinical remission with chemotherapy and central nervous system relapse: report of one case

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare, clinically aggressive hematologic malignancy that most commonly manifests as cutaneous lesions with or without bone marrow involvement and leukemic dissemination. The demonstration of tumor cells with the characteristic immunophenotype with expression of CD56, generally CD4 and dendritic cell antigens (CD123, cyTCL-1, HLA-DR), in the absence of myeloid or lymphoid lineage markers is required for the diagnosis. Responses to chemotherapy are initially satisfactory, with frequent systemic and central nervous system relapses. We report a 24 year-old male with BPDCN, initially diagnosed and treated as non-Hodgkin CD4+ T-cell lymphoma, with initial complete remission who evolved with early central nervous system relapse. A second attempt of chemotherapy failed and the patient died two months later.

Implementing a clinical pharmacy service in hematology / Implementação de um serviço farmacêutico clínico em hematologia

ABSTRACT Objective: To implement a clinical pharmacy service focused on the comprehensive review of antineoplastic drugs used in therapy of hematological diseases. Methods: An interventional study was conducted in a Brazilian tertiary teaching hospital in two different periods, with and without a clinical pharmacy service, respectively. This service consisted of an antineoplastic prescription validation (analysis of patients' characteristics, laboratory tests, compliance with the therapeutic protocol and with pharmacotechnical parameters). When problems were detected, the pharmacist intervened with the physician or another health professional responsible for the patient. Inpatients and outpatients with hematological diseases were included. Results: We found an increased detection of drug-related problem by 106.5% after implementing the service. Comparing the two periods, an increase in patients' age (26.7 years versus 17.6 years), a predominance of outpatients (54% versus 38%), and an increase in multiple myeloma (13% versus 4%) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (16% versus 3%) was noted. The most commonly found problems were related to dose (33% versus 25%) and cycle day (14% versus 30%). With regard to clinical impact, the majority had a significant impact (71% versus 58%), and in one patient from the second period could have been fatal. The main pharmaceutical interventions were dose adjustment (35% versus 25%) and drug withdrawal (33% versus 40%). Conclusion: The pharmacy service contributed to increase the detection and resolution of drug-related problems, and it was an effective method to promote the safe and rational use of antineoplastic drugs.

RESUMO Objetivo: Implementar um serviço farmacêutico clínico centrado na revisão completa dos antineoplásicos utilizados no tratamento de doenças hematológicas. Métodos: Estudo intervencional conduzido em um hospital universitário terciário brasileiro em dois períodos distintos, com base na ausência e na presença do serviço farmacêutico clínico, respectivamente. O referido serviço consistiu na validação farmacêutica de prescrição de medicamentos antineoplásicos (análise de características do paciente, exames laboratoriais, conformidade com o protocolo terapêutico e parâmetros farmacotécnicos). Após a detecção dos problemas, o farmacêutico interveio junto ao médico ou outro profissional de saúde responsável pelo paciente. Foram incluídos pacientes internados e ambulatoriais com doenças hematológicas. Resultados: Observou-se um aumento de 106,5% na detecção de problemas relacionados com medicamentos após a implementação do serviço. Comparando-se os dois períodos, verificou-se aumento na idade dos pacientes (26,7 anos versus 17,6 anos), predomínio de pacientes ambulatoriais (54% versus 38%) e aumento de mieloma múltiplo (13% versus 4%) e linfoma não Hodgkin (16% versus 3%). Os problemas mais comumente encontrados foram relacionados à dose (33% versus 25%) e ao dia do ciclo (14% versus 30%). Quanto ao impacto clínico, a maioria apresentou impacto significante (71% versus 58%) e um poderia ter sido fatal no segundo período. As principais intervenções farmacêuticas realizadas foram ajuste de dose (35% versus 25%) e suspensão de medicamento (33% versus 40%). Conclusão: O serviço farmacêutico contribuiu para o aumento da detecção e resolução de problemas relacionados com medicamentos, tratando-se de um método efetivo para promover o uso seguro e racional de medicamentos antineoplásicos.

Infection with multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria in a pediatric oncology intensive care unit: risk factors and outcomes / Infecção por bactérias gram-negativas multirresistentes em uma unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica oncológica: fatores de risco e resultados

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at evaluating the predictors and outcomes associated with multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacterial (MDR-GNB) infections in an oncology pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). METHODS: Data were collected relating to all episodes of GNB infection that occurred in a PICU between January of 2009 and December of 2012. GNB infections were divided into two groups for comparison: (1) infections attributed to MDR-GNB and (2) infections attributed to non-MDR-GNB. Variables of interest included age, gender, presence of solid tumor or hematologic disease, cancer status, central venous catheter use, previous Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, healthcare-associated infection, neutropenia in the preceding 7 days, duration of neutropenia, length of hospital stay before ICU admission, length of ICU stay, and the use of any of the following in the previous 30 days: antimicrobial agents, corticosteroids, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Other variables included initial appropriate antimicrobial treatment, definitive inadequate antimicrobial treatment, duration of appropriate antibiotic use, time to initiate adequate antibiotic therapy, and the 7- and 30-day mortality. RESULTS: Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed significant relationships between MDR-GNB and hematologic diseases (odds ratio [OR] 5.262; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.282-21.594; p = 0.021) and healthcare-associated infection (OR 18.360; 95% CI 1.778-189.560; p = 0.015). There were significant differences between MDR-GNB and non-MDR-GNB patients for the following variables: inadequate initial empirical antibiotic therapy, time to initiate adequate antibiotic treatment, and inappropriate antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Hematologic malignancy and healthcare-associated infection were significantly associated with MDR-GNB infection in this sample of pediatric oncology patients.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Este estudo visou a avaliar os preditores e resultados associados às infecções por bactérias gram-negativas multirresistentes (BGN-MR) em uma unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica oncológica (UTIP). MÉTODOS: Foram coletados dados com relação a todos os episódios de infecção por BGN que ocorreram em uma UTIP entre janeiro de 2009 e dezembro de 2012. As infecções por BGN foram divididas em dois grupos para comparação: 1) infecções atribuídas a BGN-MR e 2) infecções atribuídas a BGN não multirresistente. As variáveis de interesse incluíram idade, sexo, presença de tumor sólido ou malignidade hematológica, câncer, uso de cateter venoso central, infecção anterior por Pseudomonas aeruginosa, infecção hospitalar, neutropenia nos sete dias anteriores, duração da neutropenia, tempo de internação antes da UTI, duração da internação na UTI e uso de quaisquer dos seguintes nos 30 dias anteriores: agentes antimicrobianos, corticosteroides, quimioterapia ou radioterapia. Outras variáveis incluíram: tratamento antimicrobiano inicial adequado, tratamento antimicrobiano definitivo inadequado, duração do uso de antibióticos adequados, tempo de início da terapia antibiótica adequada, mortalidade em sete dias e mortalidade em 30 dias. RESULTADOS: As análises de regressão logística multivariada mostraram relações significativas entre as BGN-MR e as doenças hematológicas (razão de chance (RC) 5,262; intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC de 95%) 1,282-21,594; p = 0,021) e infecções hospitalares (RC 18,360; IC de 95% 1,778-189,560; p = 0,015). Houve diferenças significativas entre os pacientes com BGN-MR e BGN não MR com relação às seguintes variáveis: recebimento de terapia antibiótica empírica inicial inadequada, tempo para início do tratamento antibiótico adequado e recebimento de terapia antibiótica inadequada. CONCLUSÕES: A malignidade hematológica e a infecção hospitalar foram significativamente associadas à infecção por BGN-MR nessa amostra de pacientes pediátricos oncológicos.

Foreign Bodies in the Ear, Nose and Throat: An Experience in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Nepal

Introduction A foreign body (FB) is an object or substance foreign to the location where it is found. FBs in the ear, nose, and throat are a common problem frequently encountered in both children and adults. Objective To analyze FBs in terms of type, site, age, and gender distribution and method of removal. Methods A retrospective study was performed in a tertiary care hospital in the central part of Nepal. The study period was from June 2013 to May 2014. The information was obtained from hospital record books. Results A total of 134 patients had FBs in the ear, nose, or throat; 94 were males and 40 were females. Of the 134 patients, 70 (52.23% ) had FB in the ear, 28 (20.89% ) in the nose, and 36 (26.86% ) in the throat. The FB was animate (living) in 28 (40% ) patients with FB in the ear and 1 (3.5% ) patient with FB in the nose, but the FB was inanimate (nonliving) in any patient with FB in the throat, in 42 (60% ) patients with FB in the ear FB, and in 27 (96.4% ) patients with FB of the nose. The FB was removed with or without local anaesthesia (LA) in 98 (73.13% ) patients, and only 36 patients (26.86% ) required general anaesthesia (GA). The most common age group affected was <10 years. Conclusion FBs in the ear and nose were found more frequently in children, and the throat was the most common site of FB in adults and elderly people. Most of the FBs can be easily removed in emergency room or outpatient department. .

Allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome in patients with hematological malignancies: characteristics and clinical outcomes

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Allopurinol is a urate-lowering agent that is commonly used to prevent chemotherapy-related hyperuricemia. Allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS) is a disorder involving multiple organs, which may be accompanied by cutaneous adverse reactions. We identified the characteristics and clinical outcomes of chemotherapy-associated AHS in patients with hematological malignancies. METHODS: This retrospective single-center study included 26 AHS patients (11 with and 15 without hematological malignancies) admitted to Seoul St. Mary's Hospital. AHS was defined using the criteria of Singer and Wallace. Comparisons were made using the Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher exact test as appropriate. RESULTS: In patients with a hematological malignancy and AHS, statistically significant differences were observed in terms of younger age at onset; shorter duration of exposure; higher starting and maintenance doses of allopurinol; lower incidence of eosinophilia, leukocytosis, and underlying renal insufficiency; and more frequent occurrence of fever compared to AHS patients without a hematological malignancy. Two AHS patients with a hematological malignancy were examined for human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B typing, but neither patient harbored the HLA-B*5801 allele. All of the patients ceased allopurinol treatment, with most patients making a full recovery. Two patients in the study died; however, these deaths were unrelated to AHS. One patient developed serious sequelae of AHS that required hemodialysis. CONCLUSIONS: Physicians who prescribe allopurinol for the prevention of chemotherapy-related hyperuricemia should be aware of the unique risk of AHS, even in patients with hematological malignancies who do not have known risk factors for AHS. Novel urate-lowering agents should be considered alternative treatments.

Qualidade de vida do paciente com neoplasia hematológica submetido à quimioterapia / The quality of life of patients with hematological neoplasia undergoing chemotherapy / Calidad de vida del paciente con neoplasma hematológica sometido a quimioterapia

Este estudo teve por objetivo analisar a qualidade de vida do paciente com neoplasia hematológica submetido à quimioterapia. Realizou-se pesquisa quantitativa a partir da aplicação do questionário genérico WHOQOL-bref. A amostra foi composta de 16 pacientes do setor de ambulatório de quimioterapia de alto risco de um hospital de ensino do município de Curitiba-PR, no período de fevereiro a abril de 2010. Os resultados evidenciaram a prevalência do sexo masculino e a média de idade dos participantes esteve entre 20 e 64 anos. Entre os tipos de neoplasias hematológicas encontraram-se 46,7% de leucemia linfocítica aguda, 33,3% de leucemia mieloide aguda e 20% entre linfoma não hodgkin, mieloma múltiplo e tricoleucemia. O período de tratamento foi de duas semanas a 24 meses e o número de sessões de quimioterapia foi entre uma e 80. Mediante análise, pode-se inferir que os domínios físicos e psicológicos foram os que sofreram mais alteração, porém sem diferença estatisticamente significativa para todos os domínios. Ressalta-se que o câncer altera indiscutivelmente todos os aspectos da vida do indivíduo e acarreta profundas alterações na sua rotina e hábitos de vida. Neste sentido, observam-se a necessidade e a importância do cuidado da enfermagem na intervenção desse processo.

This study aimed to analyze the quality of life of patients with hematological neoplasia undergoing chemotherapy. A quantitative research wascarried out based on the application of the WHOQOL-bref generic questionnaire. The sample was composed of 16 patients in the outpatient highrisk chemotherapy sector in a teaching hospital in the city of Curitiba-PR between February and April of 2010. The results showed a prevalence ofmales with ages between 20 and 64 years old. Among the types of hematological neoplasias, 46.7% were acute lymphocytic leukemia, 33.3% wereacute myelogenous leukemia, and 20% were divided between non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and hairy cell leukemia. The treatmentperiod varied between 2 weeks and 24 months, and the number of chemotherapy sessions between 1 and 80. The analysis showed that thephysical and psychological domains suffered the most changes, however, no statistically significant difference between all domains was observed.Cancer arguably changes every aspect of an individual’s life and brings profound changes in their routine and habits of life. Thus, the necessity andimportance of nursing care intervention in this process is observed.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar la calidad de vida del paciente con neoplasia hematológica sometido a quimioterapia. Se realizó una investigación cuantitativa a través de la aplicación del cuestionario genérico WHOQOL - bref. La muestra estuvo compuesta de 16 pacientes del sector ambulatorio de quimioterapia d alto riesgo de un Hospital Universitario del municipio de Curitiba/PR, entre Febrero y Abril de 2010. Los resultados mostraron la prevalencia del sexo masculino, edad de los participantes entre 20 y 64 años. Entre los tipos de neoplasias hematológicas se encontró 46,7% de leucemia linfocítica aguda, 33,3% leucemia mieloide aguda y 20% entre linfoma no-hodgkin, mieloma múltiple y tricoleucemia. El periodo de tratamiento varió entre dos semanas y 24 meses y el número de sesiones de quimioterapia entre una y 80. Mediante análisis se puede inferir que los dominios físicos y psicológicos fueron los que sufrieron más alteraciones, pero sin diferencia estadísticamente significativa para todos los dominios. Se realza que la presencia del cáncer altera indiscutiblemente todos los aspectos de la vida del individuo y que lleva a profundas alteraciones en su rutina y costumbres de vida. En este sentido, observamos la necesidad y la importancia del cuidado de enfermería en la intervención de este proceso.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Infectious Complications Related to Implantable Venous-Access Ports

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors of infections associated with implantable venous access ports (IVAPs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From August 2003 through November 2011, 1747 IVAPs were placed in our interventional radiology suite. One hundred forty four IVAPs were inserted in patients with hematologic malignancy and 1603 IVAPs in patients with solid tumors. Among them, 40 ports (23 women and 17 men; mean age, 57.1 years; range, 13-83) were removed to treat port-related infections. We evaluated the incidence of port-related infection, patient characteristics, bacteriologic data, and patient progress. Univariable analyses (t test, chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test) and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors for IVAP related infection. RESULTS: Overall, 40 (2.3%) of 1747 ports were removed for symptoms of infection with an incidence rate of 0.067 events/1000 catheter-days. According to the univariable study, the incidences of infection were seemingly higher in the patients who received the procedure during inpatient treatment (p = 0.016), the patients with hematologic malignancy (p = 0.041), and the patients receiving palliative chemotherapy (p = 0.022). From the multiple binary logistic regression, the adjusted odds ratios of infection in patients with hematologic malignancies and those receiving palliative chemotherapy were 7.769 (p = 0.001) and 4.863 (p = 0.003), respectively. Microorganisms were isolated from 26 (65%) blood samples, and two of the most causative organisms were found to be Staphylococcus (n = 10) and Candida species (n = 7). CONCLUSION: The underlying hematologic malignancy and the state of receiving palliative chemotherapy were the independent risk factors of IVAP-related infection.