Alteraciones hemostáticas provocadas por el veneno de la culebra mapanare (Porthidium lansbergii hutmanni) en pacientes venezolanos / Haemostatic alterations caused by the venom of Lansberg's hognosed pitviper (Porthidium lansbergii hutmanni) in Venezuelan patients

Objective: to describe the haemostatic characteristics of the venom as well as the potency appraisal of the polyvalent antiophidic serum against haemotoxicity from Porthidium lansbergii hutmani experimental envenomation. Methods: Evaluation was performed of the venom's lethality, haemorrhagic activity, effects on coagulation and platelet aggregation, proteolytic activity, and neutralization by the commercial antivenom available in the country. Results: Several components with haemostatic activities were found in Porthidium l. hutmanni venom when a study of fibrinogenolytic, haemorrhagic and proteolytic activities was conducted of a pool of P.l.h venom. Porthidium l. hutmanni venom lacked the coagulant and defibrinating activities that are characteristic of bothropic venoms. Porthidium l. hutmanni venom showed very high haemorrhagic and anticoagulant activities. These findings could be related to the presence of multiple metalloproteases, which was evidenced in this study, and also the possible presence of phospholipases or other anticoagulant activity proteins that were not defined here. They inhibited platelet aggregation, suggesting that the venom had some proteins with marked effects on haemostasis. The commercial antivenom proved to be of little effectiveness in neutralizing the crude venom haemorrhagic activity. Conclusions: These toxins cause many physiopathological alterations in bitten patients, creating a clinical picture characterized by oedema, local and systemic haemorrhages, and even necrosis, comparable to that seen in bothropic envenomation. Porthidium l. hutmanni venom has no in vitro procoagulant activity, typical of bothropic venoms, suggesting there are variances in its protein conformation. Porthidium l. hutmanni venom is used for horse immunization. However, in order to preserve the patient's life, it is necessary to improve the immunization process to produce antivenom containing high avidity and specificity antibodies against the major toxins present in this venom. Porthidium l. hutmanni venom has demonstrated being a venom with high lethal, haemorrhagic, proteolytic and procoagulant activities, whose description will have enormous utility among clinicians who deal with these accidents in its geographical distribution areas(AU)

Objetivo: Describir las características hemostáticas del veneno y evaluar la potencia del suero polivalente antiofídico contra la hemotoxicidad provocada por el envenenamiento experimental por Porthidium lansbergii hutmanni. Métodos: Se realizó una evaluación de la letalidad, actividad hemorrágica, efectos en la coagulación y agregación plaquetaria, actividad proteolítica y neutralización por el antiveneno disponible comercialmente en el país. Resultados: Se encontraron varios componentes con actividad hemostática en el veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni al realizarse un estudio de la actividad fibrinogenolítica, hemorrágica y proteolítica de una muestra de veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni. El veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni no mostró la actividad coagulante o defibrinante característica de los venenos botrópicos. El veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni mostró una elevada actividad hemorrágica y anticoagulante. Estos resultados podrían estar relacionados con la presencia de múltiples metaloproteasas, la que quedó demostrado en el estudio, y también a la posible presencia de fosfolipasas u otras proteínas de actividad anticoagulante que no se definen en el mismo. La inhibición de la agregación plaquetaria sugiere que el veneno contiene algunas proteínas con un marcado efecto sobre la hemostasis. El antiveneno comercial mostró poca efectividad en la neutralización de la actividad hemorrágica del veneno crudo. Conclusiones: Estas toxinas provocan muchas alteraciones fisiopatológicas en las víctimas de mordeduras, creando un cuadro clínico caracterizado por edema, hemorragias locales y sistémicas e incluso necrosis comparable con la que ocurre en el envenenamiento botrópico. El veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni no tiene la actividad procoagulante in vitro típica de los venenos botrópicos, lo que apunta a variaciones en su conformación proteica. El veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni de utiliza en la inmunización de los caballos. Sin embargo, para preservar la vida del paciente, es necesario mejorar el proceso de inmunización con vistas a producir un antiveneno que contenga anticuerpos de elevada avidez y especificidad contra las principales toxinas presentes en el veneno. El veneno de Porthidium l. hutmanni ha mostrado ser un veneno de elevada actividad letal, hemorrágica, proteolítica y procoagulante, cuya descripción tendrá una enorme utilidad para los médicos que atienden esos accidentes en sus áreas de distribución geográfica(AU)

First Korean case of factor V Leiden mutation in pregnant woman with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss

Thrombophilia refers to inherited or acquired hemostatic disorders that result in a predisposition to blood clot formation. When combined with the hypercoagulable state that is characteristic of pregnancy, there is an increased risk of severe and recurrent pregnancy complications. Activated protein C resistance caused by factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation is known to be the most common cause of inherited thrombophilia in Caucasian population. FVL mutation has been related to pregnancy complications associated with hypercoagulation, e.g. miscarriage, intrauterine fetal demise, placental abruption, and intrauterine growth retardation. Although the FVL mutation is easily detected using molecular DNA techniques, patients who are heterozygous for this disorder often remain asymptomatic until they develop a concurrent prothrombotic condition. Because there are potentially serious effects of FVL mutation for pregnancy, and because effective treatment strategies exist, early detection and treatment of this condition might be considered.

A Case of Hemostatic Disorder Due to Thrombocytopenia Caused by a Type B Dialysis Reaction / 대한내과학회지

The biocompatibility of dialysis membranes has significantly reduced adverse responses to dialysis, such that nowadays they are rarely reported. We report the case of a patient diagnosed and subsequently treated for thrombocytopenia caused by a dialysis reaction, as an example of a hemostatic disorder mistaken for an immature arteriovenous fistula. The peridialysis pattern of the platelet count helped to confirm the diagnosis. Further studies of the negative effects of dialysis are needed, including risk factors, predictors, treatment, and prevention.

Hemostatic disorders induced by skin contact with Lonomia obliqua (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) caterpillars

ABSTRACT Patients envenomed by Lonomia sp caterpillars initially experience a mild burning pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and skin and mucosal hemorrhages. Some patients can rapidly progress to a severe coagulopathy that presents as visceral or intracerebral hemorrhaging. We studied the hemostatic alterations that occurred in 14 patients who were envenomed by Lonomia obliqua in Southern Brazil and presented at the Hospital São Vicente de Paulo (Passo Fundo, RS), Brazil during the summers of 1993 and 1994 when Lonomia antivenom was not yet available for treatment. The patients were classified into to 4 clinical groups: 0 (two patients), I (eight patients), II (two patients), and III (two patients). The patients were admitted to the hospital between 4 hours and five days after contact with the caterpillars. In this study, the coagulation parameters of the patients were followed up for up to 172 hours after the accidents. The patients received no treatment with the exceptions of two patients who received blood transfusions and antifibrinolytic treatment. The observed abnormalities related to blood coagulation and fibrinolytic factors were similar regardless of the severity of the bleeding symptoms. These findings suggest that alterations in hemostatic parameters without thrombocytopenia are not predictors of the seriousness of such accidents. Thus, consumptive disorder and reactive fibrinolysis are not proportional to mild coagulopathy. Furthermore, these patients recovered. The hemostatic parameters of most of the patients normalized between 96 and 120 h after the accident.

BaltDC: purification, characterization and infrared spectroscopy of an antiplatelet DC protein isolated from Bothrops alternatus snake venom

Background: Snake venoms are a complex mixture of proteins, organic and inorganic compounds. Some of these proteins, enzymatic or non-enzymatic ones, are able to interact with platelet receptors, causing hemostatic disorders. The possible therapeutic potential of toxins with antiplatelet properties may arouse interest in the pharmacological areas. The present study aimed to purify and characterize an antiplatelet DC protein from Bothrops alternatus snake venom. Methods: The protein, called BaltDC (DC protein from B. alternatus snake venom), was purified by a combination of ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel column and gel filtration on Sephadex G-75. The molecular mass was estimated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE). The amino acid sequence of the N-terminal region was carried out by Edman degradation method. Platelet aggregation assays were performed in human platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Infrared (IR) spectroscopy was used in order to elucidate the interactions between BaltDC and platelet membrane. Results: BaltDC ran as a single protein band on SDS-PAGE and showed apparent molecular mass of 32 kDa under reducing or non-reducing conditions. The N-terminal region of the purified protein revealed the amino acid sequence IISPPVCGNELLEVGEECDCGTPENCQNECCDA, which showed identity with other snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs). BaltDC was devoid of proteolytic, hemorrhagic, defibrinating or coagulant activities, but it showed a specific inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation induced by ristocetin and epinephrine in PRP. IR analysis spectra strongly suggests that PO 3 2 − groups, present in BaltDC, form hydrogen bonds with the PO 2 − groups present in the non-lipid portion of the membrane platelets. Conclusions: BaltDC may be of medical interest since it was able to inhibit platelet aggregation.(AU)

Thromboelastometric evaluation of horses submitted to experimental thrombosis and jugular thrombectomy / Avaliação tromboelastométrica de equinos submetidos a trombose e trombectomia jugular experimental

Jugular thrombosis in horses occurs commonly in iatrogenic situations, secondary to endotoxemic clinical condition and disseminated vascular coagulation, potentially leading to death. Thus, hemostatic evaluation becomes necessary and extremely important for monitoring the risks of systemic hypercoagulability and for the efficiency of allopathic and surgical treatment. This paper describes the hemostatic behavior in experimental jugular thrombosis of ten healthy equines, subsequently submitted to two thrombectomy techniques and receiving heparin sodium as anti-rethrombosis therapy. These animals were evaluated for 20 days by thromboelastometry (TEM), platelet count, hematocrit and fibrinogen, at four moments: pre-induction to phlebitis (D0-MPF); three days after thrombophlebitis induction (D3-MFM); 6 days after, - moment of thrombophlebitis - (D9-MT); and 54 (D16) and 126 (D19) hours after thrombectomies (PTM). Thrombectomy was performed via a Vollmar Ring (group 1, n=5) and Fogarty catheter (group 2, n=5). All the animals received heparin (150 UI/kg, SC) every 12 hours, for ten days after the respective thrombectomies. Through the blood samples were evaluated TEM, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT), dosing of fibrinogen, hematocrit and platelet count at the abovementioned moments. For comparison between groups and moments the t test was applied at 5% significance level. No significant difference was verified between treatment groups at any of the moments. There were reductions in clotting time (CT) and clot formation time (CFT), with increase in maximum lysis (ML) until the moment D9-MT. Evaluation through INTEM® reagent presented prolongations of CT and CFT with reduction of α angle and ML starting from D16 and D19. Similarly, aPTT presented significant differences between moments pre- (D0, 3 and 9) and post- (D16 and 19) anticoagulant and surgical treatment. The platelet numbers were diminished at moments D16 and D19. In evaluation with EXTEM® reagent, prolongation of CT and CFT occurred only between the moments D0 vs. D3 and vs. D9. O PT did not present significant differences. The results obtained demonstrate that experimental jugular thrombophlebitis leads to local clinical alterations, with impairment of tissue and of the extrinsic coagulation pathway (EXTEM® ), but without evidence of systemic hypercoagulability status, since there was no increase of the alpha angle or maximum clot firmness (MCF). Furthermore, TEM was shown useful and more sensitive than conventional coagulation tests (PT, aPTT and fibrinogen) for the monitoring of anticoagulant therapy, as demonstrated in other works.(AU)

A trombose jugular nos equinos ocorre comumente em situações iatrogênicas, secundárias a quadros endotoxêmicos e a coagulação vascular disseminada, podendo levar ao óbito. Por isso, avaliação hemostática se faz necessária e de extrema importância para monitorar os riscos de hipercoagulabilidade sistêmica e também a eficiência do tratamento alopático e cirúrgico. Este trabalho descreve o comportamento hemostático na trombose jugular experimental de dez equinos hígidos, submetidos posteriormente a duas técnicas de trombectomia e recebendo heparina sódica como terapia anti retrombosante. Estes animais foram avaliados durante 20 dias por tromboelastometria (TEM), contagem de plaquetas, hematócrito e fibrinogênio, em quatro momentos: pré-indução à flebite (D0-MPF); três dias após a indução da tromboflebite (D3-MFM); 6 dias após, - momento de tromboflebite - (D9-MT); e 54 (D16) e 126 (D19) horas após as trombectomias (MPT). A trombectomia foi realizada com Anel de Vollmar (grupo 1, n=5) e cateter de Fogarty (grupo 2, n=5). Todos os animais receberam heparina (150 UI/Kg, SC) a cada 12 horas, durante dez dias após as respectivas trombectomias. Através de amostras de sangue, foram avaliadas a TEM, o tempo de tromboplastia parcial ativada (TTPa) e tempo de protrombina (TP), a dosagem de fibrinogênio, hematócrito e contagem de plaquetas nos momentos descritos acima. Para a comparação entre os grupos e momentos foi aplicado teste t, com nível de significância de 5%. Não foi verificada diferença significativa entre os grupos de tratamento em nenhum dos momentos. Houve redução do tempo de coagulação (CT) e do tempo de formação do coágulo (CFT), com aumento da lise máxima (LM) até o momento D9-MT. A avaliação com o reagente intem apresentou prolongamento do CT e do CFT e redução do ângulo α e da LM a partir do D16 e D19. Da mesma forma, o TTPa apresentou diferenças significativas entre os momentos pré (D0, 3 e 9) e pós (D16 e 19) tratamento cirúrgico e anticoagulante. Houve diminuição do número de plaquetas nos momentos D16 e D19. Na avaliação com reagente extem ocorreu apenas o prolongamento do CT e CFT entre os momentos D0 e o D3 e D9. O TP não apresentou diferenças significativas. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a tromboflebite jugular experimental leva a alterações clínicas locais, com comprometimento tecidual e da via extrínseca da coagulação (extem), porém sem evidências de um estado sistêmico de hipercoagulabilidade, pois não houve aumento do ângulo alfa e da firmeza máxima do coágulo (MCF). Além disso, a TEM se mostrou útil e mais sensível que os testes convencionais de coagulação (TP, TTPa e fibrinogênio) para o acompanhamento da terapia anticoagulante, conforme demonstrado em outros trabalhos.(AU)

Constructing protein-protein interaction network of hypertension with blood stasis syndrome via digital gene expression sequencing and database mining / 中西医结合学报

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network in hypertension patients with blood-stasis syndrome (BSS) by using digital gene expression (DGE) sequencing and database mining techniques.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>DGE analysis based on the Solexa Genome Analyzer platform was performed on vascular endothelial cells incubated with serum of hypertension patients with BSS. The differentially expressed genes were filtered by comparing the expression levels between the different experimental groups. Then functional categories and enriched pathways of the unique genes for BSS were analyzed using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) to select those in the enrichment pathways. Interologous Interaction Database (I2D) was used to construct PPI networks with the selected genes for hypertension patients with BSS. The potential candidate genes related to BSS were identified by comparing the number of relationships among genes. Confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), gene ontology (GO) analysis was used to infer the functional annotations of the potential candidate genes for BSS.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>With gene enrichment analysis using DAVID, a list of 58 genes was chosen from the unique genes. The selected 58 genes were analyzed using I2D, and a PPI network was constructed. Based on the network analysis results, candidate genes for BSS were identified: DDIT3, JUN, HSPA8, NFIL3, HSPA5, HIST2H2BE, H3F3B, CEBPB, SAT1 and GADD45A. Verified through qRT-PCR and analyzed by GO, the functional annotations of the potential candidate genes were explored.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Compared with previous methodologies reported in the literature, the present DGE analysis and data mining method have shown a great improvement in analyzing BSS.</p>

Coagulation and renal effects of voluven versus haes-steril in major orthopedic surgery

Hydroxyelhyl starch [HES] solutions are effective plasma volume expanders. Impairment of coagulation and renal junction occur with large HES volumes infused perioperatively. Therefore, a lower substituted novel HES [Voluven] was developed to minimize hemostatic interactions. The aim of the study is to evaluate the benefit of voluven to reduce hemostatic interactions and preserve renal junction while preserving its efficacy in restoring plasma volume in comparison to HAES-steril [pentastarch]. After approval of our local institutional university ethical committee, and a written consent was obtained from each one. Fifty consecutive adult patients, ASA I and II, scheduled for elective major orthopedic surgery at Assiut University Hospital were included in the study. The patients were allocated into two equal groups [each of 25 patients] according to the type of the study solution used as plasma volume replacement. Group-A: received [Voluven]. Group-B: received HAES-steril. Hemodynamic parameters: central venous pressure [CVP], mean arterial blood pressure [MABP], and heart rate [HR] were recorded before anesthesia induction [baseline], one hour after induction of anesthesia, at the end of surgery, 5 h after surgery and 24 h after surgery. Coagulation profile: Screening tests: prothrombin time [PT], prothrombin concentration [PC], International Normalized Ratio [INR]], partial thromboplastin time [aPTT] and serum fibrinogen level. Specific tests of haemostasis: factor VIII concentration and von Willebrand factor [vWF], Renal function tests: blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine. Measurements time: sample were collected one day before surgery ['baseline], at 5 h and 24h after surgery. Amount of given colloids [ml], blood loss [ml] and packed RBCs [ml,] were recorded in all patients in two groups. All patients in the two groups were subjected to the some anesthetic management. Data was statistically analyzed using SPSS program version 16, a p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. There were significant differences with time as regard PT, PC, and INR in both groups and there was significant difference between the two groups, more increase in PT, INR and more decrease in PC in Haesteril group than in Voluven group. Voluven produced less inhibitory effect on coagulation factor VIII and Von Willibrand factor concentration and consequently, aPTT in comparison with HA ES-steril. Blood loss and transfusion requirements were less with Voluven group than with HAES-steril group. BUN and serum creatinine significantly changed over time in both groups but still within normal range in Voluven groups, but in Haesteril group there were significantly changed over time, mildly elevated above normal range and there was significant difference between the two groups with more increase in Haestril group. Compared with HAES-steril, Voluven are more likely to produce less coagulation abnormalities and less renal impairment in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery manifested by less blood loss and less erythrocytes transfusion

Platelet Dysfunction in a Patient with Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report with a Literature Review / 대한내과학회지

Multiple myeloma is a monoclonal plasma cell proliferation disorder with various symptoms and signs caused by paraproteinemias. Among these signs, a bleeding tendency is one of the major fatal causes. However, significant severe bleeding is rare in most cases. In this study, we report a case of multiple myeloma in a patient who had a severe recurrent bleeding tendency due to platelet dysfunction caused by paraproteins. After being treated with therapeutic plasma exchange and chemotherapy, the patient's monoclonal protein level decreased and the bleeding stopped.

Accesos vasculares en hemodiálisis e intervenciones del personal de salud y pacientes en caso de complicaciones de las mismas, en dos instituciones de salud, primer semestre 2011 / Vascular access in hemodialysis and interventions of health personnel and patients in case of complications thereof, in two health institutions, the first half of 2011

La insuficiencia renal crónica es la disminución progresiva de la tasa de filtrado glomerular secundario a pérdida irreversible de nefronas funcionantes, y como alternativa de tratamiento se tiene la hemodiálisis.La presente investigación es cuantitativa y cualitativa, de tipo descriptivo, transversal y retroprospectivo; demuestra el manejo de los accesos vasculares en hemodiálisis por parte del personal de salud en enfermería y pacientes. Se trabajo con una muestra de 176 pacientes y 17 Licenciadas de enfermería de dos instituciones de salud; Caja Nacional de salud y el Hospital Clínico Viedma en el año 2011.Se utilizó un cuestionario para los pacientes y el personal de salud, donde los resultados reflejaron que existe un déficit de conocimientos en cuanto al manejo de los accesos vasculares por parte del paciente y el personal de enfermería; lo cual se asocia con las complicaciones observadas. Se observó una mayor incidencia de infección causada por el mal uso por parte de los pacientes. Se constató los procedimientos mal realizados en accesos vasculares por el personal de salud en enfermería, con mayor incidencia en la institución de la Caja Nacional de Salud

Alterações vasculares resultantes da abordagem cirúrgica da axila: uma revisão da literatura / Vascular disorders after axillary surgery: a literature review

Introdução: O câncer de mama é considerado um problema de saúde pública. No Brasil, como ainda predominam os diagnósticos nos estágios avançados, cirurgias extensas e dissecções axilares ainda são muito utilizadas. Tais procedimentos podem levar a uma variedade de problemas clínicos,normalmente relacionados à etiologia vascular, que têm impacto funcional. Objetivos: Analisar as alterações linfovasculares sob os aspectos histopatológicos, anatômicos, linfocintilográficos e funcionais, decorrentes da abordagem cirúrgica da axila. Métodos: A revisão da literatura foi realizada a partir das bases de dados LILACS, PubMed e BIREME, via descritores DeCS/MeSH, tendo a busca sido feita entre os meses de setembro a outubro de 2011. Resultados: Os estudos que avaliaram os aspectos histopatológicos tiveram a trombose dos vasos linfáticos como o achado em comum. Naqueles que avaliaram os aspectos linfocintilográficos, ficou evidenciado a presença de um fluxo linfático retrógrado, além do surgimento, do ponto de vista anatômico demonstrado pela linfocintilografia, devias linfáticas colaterais. Outro estudo, que avaliou os aspectos funcionais, observou que a captação do radiofármaco usado, na axila, foi mais lenta em pacientes com esvaziamento axilar nas situações de repouso e exercício. Conclusões: A maioria dos estudos atesta importantes alterações vasculares que se estabelecem após a cirurgia da axila, em todos os aspectos pesquisados. Tais alterações podem permanecer por anos, resultando em transtornos clínicos aparentes como déficit de força, linfedema, síndromeda rede axilar, dentre outros, cujas origens, no sistema vascular, ainda carecem de maior atenção.

Introduction: Breast cancer is considered a public health problem. In Brazil, as still predominate inadvanced diagnostics, extensive surgery and axillary dissections are still widely used. Such procedures may lead to a variety of clinical problems, normally related to the etiology vascular, with functional impact. Objectives: To analyze the linfovasculares changes under histopathological, anatomical, functional and lymphoscintigraphic aspects, resulting from the surgical approach of the axilla. Methods: The literature review was performed from the databases LILACS, PubMed and BIREME, by DeCS/MeSH. The search was made between the months September-October 2011. Results: The studies that assessed the histopathological aspects had thrombosis of lymphatic vessels as found in common. In those studies that evaluated aspects lymphoscintigraphic, evidenced the presence of a retrograde lymphatic flow, besides the appearance of collateral lymphatic pathways shown by lymphoscintigraphy. Another study that evaluated the functional aspects, noted that the uptake of the radiopharmaceutical used, in the armpit, was slower in patients with axillary lymph node dissection in situations of rest and exercise. Conclusions: Most studies attest importante vascular changes that take place after surgery of axilla in all aspects analyzed. Such changes may persist for years, resulting in clinical disorders such apparent strength deficit, lymphedema, axillary web syndrome, among others, which origins in the vascular system, still require further attention.

Orofacial manifestations of hematological disorders: Anemia and hemostatic disorders.

The aim of this paper is to review the literature and identify orofacial manifestations of hematological diseases, with particular reference to anemias and disorders of hemostasis. A computerized literature search using MEDLINE was conducted for published articles on orofacial manifestations of hematological diseases, with emphasis on anemia. Mesh phrases used in the search were: oral diseases AND anaemia; orofacial diseases AND anaemia; orofacial lesions AND anaemia; orofacial manifestations AND disorders of haemostasis. The Boolean operator "AND" was used to combine and narrow the searches. Anemic disorders associated with orofacial signs and symptoms include iron deficiency anemia, Plummer-Vinson syndrome, megaloblastic anemia, sickle cell anemia, thalassaemia and aplastic anemia. The manifestations include conjunctiva and facial pallor, atrophic glossitis, angular stomatitis, dysphagia, magenta tongue, midfacial overgrowth, osteoclerosis, osteomyelitis and paraesthesia/anesthesia of the mental nerve. Orofacial petechiae, conjunctivae hemorrhage, nose-bleeding, spontaneous and post-traumatic gingival hemorrhage and prolonged post-extraction bleeding are common orofacial manifestations of inherited hemostatic disorders such as von Willebrand's disease and hemophilia. A wide array of anemic and hemostatic disorders encountered in internal medicine has manifestations in the oral cavity and the facial region. Most of these manifestations are non-specific, but should alert the hematologist and the dental surgeon to the possibilities of a concurrent disease of hemopoiesis or hemostasis or a latent one that may subsequently manifest itself.

Disorders in Hemostasis

Neonatal bleeding is a common problem encountered in nursery rooms or neonatal intensive care units, especially among premature infants. Furthermore, owing to recent remarkable improvement of neonatology, survival rates of preterm neonates have increased; hence, neonatal bleeding cannot be emphasized enough. Since the total blood volume of neonates is small, bleeding can be one of the causes of morbidities and mortalities. Therefore, rapid diagnosis and immediate therapy is urgently needed. The patient's medical history including a familial history of a bleeding disorder or of a previously affected infant who suffered from bleeding along with maternal and neonatal drugs can provide important diagnostic clues. Presence of bleeding with or without petechiae and ecchymoses in a healthy term or late preterm infant with thrombocytopenia but normal prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time strongly suggests a congenital bleeding disorder. For a sick infant who is bleeding from multiple sites, an acquired disorder such as disseminated intravascular coagulation is suspected. Intracranial hemorrhage in term or late preterm infants without a history of birth trauma is highly suggestive of coagulation disorders. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent advances in diagnostic methods is as well as basic concepts of neonatal hemostatic disorders. First, an outline of background information will be presented followed by a discussion of primary and secondary hemostatic disorders as well as inherited and acquired disorders.

Spontaneous Resolution of Nontraumatic Acute Spinal Subdural Hematoma

Spinal subdural hematoma (SSDH) is an extremely uncommon condition. Causative factors include trauma, anticoagulant drug administration, hemostatic disorders, and vascular disorders such as arteriovenous malformations and lumbar punctures. Of SSDH cases, those that do not have any traumatic event can be considered cases of nontraumatic acute spinal subdural hematoma, which is known to have diverse clinical progress. Treatment typically consists of surgical decompression and cases in which the condition is relieved with conservative treatment are rarely reported. We report two nontraumatic acute spinal subdural hematoma patients who were successfully treated without surgery.

Correlation of CD4 count with platelet count, Prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time among HIV patients in Benin City, Nigeria / Correlación entre el conteo de CD4 y el conteo de plaquetas, el tiempo de Protrombina y el tiempo de tromboplastina parcial activada entre pacientes de VIH en la Ciudad de Benin, Nigeria

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of CD4 count on platelet count, prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) among HIV patients. METHOD: Blood samples were collected from 100 subjects consisting of 70 HIV treatment naive patients and 30 HIV seronegative individuals. Platelet count, CD4 count, PT and APTT were performed on the blood samples using standard techniques. RESULT: HIV-positive patients had significantly (p < 0.001) lower CD4 and platelet counts than HIV-negative subjects. Also, PT and APTT were significantly (p < 0.001) higher in HIV patients compared with their HIV negative counterparts. Among the HIV-infected patients, platelet count did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) between those with CD4 count < 200 cells/µL and those with CD4 count > 200 cells/ µL. However, PT and APTT were significantly (p < 0.005 and p < 0.001 respectively) higher in HIV patients with CD4 count < 200 cell/µL. Only PT significantly correlated with CD4 count (r = 0.5406, p < 0.001) and this correlation was observed only among HIV patients with CD4 count < 200 cell/µL (r = 0.6227, p< 0.001). CONCLUSION: HIV patients with CD4 count < 200 cell/µL have higher PT and APTT values; PT only correlated with CD4 count and endothelial activation is suggested as the possible mechanism for the coagulation defect.

OBJETIVO: Determinar el efecto de conteo de CD4 sobre el conteo de plaquetas, el tiempo de protrombina (PT) y el tiempo de tromboplastina parcial activada (TTPA) entre pacientes de VIH. MÉTODO: Se recogieron muestras de sangre de 100 sujetos formados por 70 pacientes sin experiencia previa en el tratamiento contra el VIH y 30 individuos VIH seronegativos. Se realizaron conteos de plaquetas, conteos de CD4, PT y TTPA, en muestras de sangre usando técnicas estándares. RESULTADO: Los pacientes con VIH tuvieron conteos de plaquetas y de CD4 significativamente más bajos que los sujetos VIH negativos. Asimismo, tanto el PT como el TTPA fueron significativamente más altos (p < 0.001) en pacientes con VIH, en comparación con sus contrapartes VIH negativos. Entre los pacientes infectados por VIH, el conteo de plaquetas no presentó diferencias significativas (p > 0.05) entre aquellos con conteo CD4 < 200 células/µL y aquellos con conteo CD4 > 200 células/ µL. Sin embargo, el PT y el TTPA fueron significativamente más altos (p < 0.005 y p < 0.001 respectivamente) en pacientes con VIH con conteo CD4 < 200 células/µL. Solamente el PT estuvo significativamente correlacionado con el conteo CD4 (r = 0.5406, p < 0.001) y esta correlación fue observada sólo entre pacientes con VIH con conteo CD4 < 200 células/µL (r = 0.6227, p< 0.001). CONCLUSIÓN: Los pacientes de VIH con conteo CD4 < 200 células/µL, poseen valores de PT y TTPA más altos; el PT mantenía correlación solamente con el conteo de CD4, y se sugiere la activación endotelial como posible mecanismo para el defecto de coagulación.

Assessment of the effect of lipoic acid administration on hemostatic and lipid parameters in ovariectomized rats

Adverse thrombotic cardiovascular events increase in women coincident with the onset of menopause. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of lipoic acid administration on hemostatic and lipid parameters, pertinent to thrombotic cardiovascular tendency in ovariectomized rats. Mature female rats were allocated into three groups namely; sham-operated, ovariectomized and lipoic acid-treated ovariectomized rats. Lipoic acid administration started 8 weeks after ovariectomy, and lasted for 3 weeks, in a dose of 100mg/kg body weight, on daily basis. All ovariectomized rats, whether treated or not, were sacrificed 11 weeks after ovariectomy. Various hemostatic and lipid parameters were evaluated, in addition to body mass index, body fat weight as well as malondialdehyde level and red blood cell profile. Compared with their non-treated ovariectomized littermates, lipoic acid-treated ovariectomized rats showed increased platelet count and decreased platelet aggregation, together with reduced fibrinogen level, body mass index and fat weight to body weight ratio, as well as the malondialdehyde level. Lipoic acid also ameliorated the increment in triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein and atherogenic index detected in the ovariectomized group. Lipoic acid treatment also caused reduction in red blood cell count, hemoglobin level and hematocrit value. The encountered data showed that the administration of lipoic acid may have favorable effects on females after menopause by mitigating some hemostatic and lipid parameters, together with control of body weight and body fat weight. The present findings indicate potential antiobesity, antiplatelet aggregation, antilipedemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of lipoic acid

Câncer e trombose: uma revisão da literatura / Cancer and thrombosis: a literature review

Desde a teoria de Trusseau, sobre a coagulação, até os dias atuais, muitas informações surgiram sobre a coagulação sanguínea. Com o melhor conhecimento dos eventos relacionados, através de estudos moleculares, celulares e clínicos, foi acordado que a formação do coágulo não era um fenômeno isolado, mas faz parte de um conjunto de eventos que, além de correlacionarem-se entre si, também interferem na biologia das células. Atualmente, esse intercâmbio entre o sistema hemostático e as células normais e patológicas mostrou ter um papel importante na gênese e na evolução de diversas doenças comuns e, nesse contexto, grande ênfase se dá para as neoplasias e sua biologia. O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a nova teoria da coagulação sanguínea e sua regulação, além de mostrar como esta interfere ao nível da biologia celular na célula neoplásica e na evolução clínica do paciente portador de câncer. O modelo de uma das condições clínicas mais freqüentes, para demonstrar a conseqüência dessa interferência, é o aparecimento da trombose.

Hemorragia digestiva de origen oscuro / Haemorrhage obscure origin

La hemorragia digestiva de origen oscuro es una enfermedad, aunque de menor prevalencia que la hemorragia digestiva alta y baja, no infrecuente, la cual representa un verdadero reto diagnóstico y terapéutico, que involucra el concurso del gastroenterólogo, cirujano general, y del radiólogo intervensionista. Las etiologías de estas patologías son múltiples, las cuales serán descritas en esta revisión. En la última década los métodos para la evaluación, principalmente del intestino delgado, han alcanzado un gran desarrollo, permitiendo un mejor abordaje, tanto diagnóstico como terapéutico de esta entidad, presentando un detallado análisis de este instrumental