Criptococosis meníngea: características y desenlace clínico en un hospital de tercer nivel de Bogotá, Colombia / Meningeal cryptococcosis: characteristics and clinical outcome in a tertiary care hospital in Bogotá, Colombia

Introducción: La criptococosis meníngea es una infección oportunista universal que presenta factores pronósticos variables, especialmente en pacientes inmunosuprimidos. Objetivo: Identificar variables clínicas y paraclínicas asociadas con el desenlace, al final de la hospitalización, en pacientes con criptococosis meníngea atendidos en un hospital de tercer nivel en Bogotá, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo. La información se obtuvo por medio de registros de historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de criptococosis meníngea durante el periodo 2016-2021. Resultados: Se analizaron 54 casos, el 85,2 % de ellos de sexo masculino, con una mediana de edad de 38 años. El síntoma principal fue cefalea (74,1 %), con un promedio de duración de 30 días antes del ingreso. El 83,3 % tenía diagnóstico de VIH, con niveles de CD4 por debajo de 50 células/mm3 y recuentos elevados de carga viral. El líquido cefalorraquídeo mostró en más del 50 % hipertensión intracraneal, pleocitosis de predominio linfocitario, hiperproteinorraquia e hipoglucorraquia. El tipo de patógeno aislado más frecuente fue C. neoformans var neoformans. Las variables más prevalentes en el grupo de pacientes que fallecieron fueron la presencia de pleocitosis en LCR (p = 0,025), cultivo para hongo positivo (p = 0,02) y aislamiento C. neoformans var neoformans (p = 0,03). Discusión: La criptococosis meníngea es una patología frecuente en hombres en la cuarta década de la vida y con infección por VIH, sin embargo, los factores relacionados con la mortalidad parecen variar dependiendo de la localización geográfica. Conclusión: En nuestro estudio los factores más prevalentes fueron la presencia de pleocitosis en LCR, cultivo positivo, aislamiento de C. neoformans var neoformans.

Introduction: Meningeal cryptococcosis is a universal opportunistic infection that presents variable prognostic factors, especially in immunosuppressed patients. Objective: To identify clinical and paraclinical variables associated with the outcome at the end of hospitalization in patients with meningeal cryptococcosis treated at a tertiary care hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. Materials and methods: Descriptive observational study. The information was obtained through records of medical records of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of meningeal cryptococcosis during the period 2016-2021. Results: 54 cases were analyzed. 85,2 % men, with a median age of 38 years. The main symptom was headache (74,1 %), with an average duration of 30 days prior to admission. 83,3 % had a diagnosis of HIV, with CD4 levels below 50 cell/mm3 and high viral load counts. The cerebrospinal fluid showed in more than 50 % intracranial hypertension, pleocytosis of lymphocyte predominance, hyperprotein- orrhachia and hypoglycorrhachia. The most frequent type of pathogen isolated was C. neoformans var neoformans. And the most prevalent variables in the group of patients who died were the presence of pleocytosis in CSF (p = 0,025), culture for positive fungus (p = 0,02) and isolation of C. neoformans var neoformans (p = 0,03). Discussion: Meningeal cryptococcosis is a frequent pathology in men, in the fourth decade of life and with HIV infection, however, the factors related to mortality seem to vary depending on the geographical location. Conclusion: In our study, the most prevalent factors were the presence of pleocytosis in CSF, positive culture, isolation of C. neoformans var neoformans.

Riesgo de mortalidad en infecciones invasivas por Mucor SPP. en niños con enfermedades hemato-oncológicas: revisión sistemática / Mortality risk of invasive Mucor spp. infections in children with cancer: A systematic review

Los estudios sobre la infección fúngica invasiva (IFI) por Mucor spp. en pacientes pediátricos con patología hematooncológica, son de baja solidez científica, lo que dificulta conocer en profundidad sus características y evolución. Con el objetivo de analizar la evolución fatal de esos pacientes, se llevó a cabo esta revisión sistemática (RS). Material y métodos: La búsqueda bibliográfica se realizó con fecha 23 de marzo de 2023, en las principales bases de datos (Medline (a través de Pubmed), Embase (a través de Embase-Elsevier), The Cochrane Library (a través de Wiley), Cinahl (a través de Ebsco HOST), SCI-EXPANDED, SciELO (a través de la WOS) y Scopus (a través de Scopus-Elsevier), libre (mediante el motor Google) y revisando las citas de los artículos incluidos. Resultados: Se rescataron 1393 artículos, de los cuales se descartaron 1386 por diversas razones. Mediante el análisis de los textos completos, finalmente se incluyeron 7 estudios. Todos los estudios eran series de casos (nivel 4). La mediana de la frecuencia de muerte observada fue de 36,6% (Q1 20% - Q347%). Conclusiones: Esta RS mostró en niños con patología hemato-oncológica, que la mortalidad por IFI por Mucor spp. alcanzó a casi un tercio de los pacientes (AU)

Studies on invasive fungal infection (IFI) by Mucor spp. in pediatric patients with cancer have a low level of evidence, which makes it difficult to elucidate its characteristics and progression. To analyze the fatal outcome of these patients, this systematic review (SR) was conducted. Material and methods: A literature search was carried out on March 23, 2023, in the following main databases (Medline (via Pubmed), Embase (via Embase-Elsevier), The Cochrane Library (via Wiley), Cinahl (via Ebsco HOST), SCI-EXPANDED, SciELO (via the WOS) and Scopus (via Scopus-Elsevier). Additionally, a complementary search was carried out using free search engines (such as Google) and by reviewing the references of the included articles. Results: A total of 1393 articles were retrieved, of which 1386 were excluded for various reasons. After a thorough analysis of the full-text articles, 7 studies were ultimately included in the review. All studies were case series (level 4). The median observed death rate was 36.6% (IQR, 20% - 47%). Conclusions: This SR showed that in children with hematological-oncological disease, mortality due to IFI by Mucor spp. affected almost one third of the patients (AU)

Diferencias epidemiológicas y clínicas en pacientes VIH positivas antes y durante la pandemia covid-19 / Epidemiological and clinical differences in HIV positive patients before and during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Con la llegada de la pandemia por COVID-19 en el año 2020, múltiples diagnósticos y tratamientos de diversas enfermedades quedaron relegados por el impacto del síndrome respiratorio agudo causado por el nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) en los sistemas de salud. Teniendo en cuenta la coexistencia de la pandemia por el virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) y la provocada por el virus SARS-Cov-2, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue recolectar información de un Hospital de Enfermedades Infecciosas de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires y analizar cómo repercutió la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 en el diagnóstico de las enfermedades que afectan a la población VIH positiva y, a su vez, comparar el estado clínico al ingreso y egreso de las pacientes en el período pre pandemia y durante la misma. Para esto se analizaron 100 epicrisis correspondientes a la sala 16 de internación de mujeres con complicaciones de la enfermedad VIH/SIDA que fueron asistidas en el período entre Enero del 2020 y Julio del 2021, y 74 epicrisis de pacientes internadas en ese mismo sitio en los siete meses previos. Se tuvieron en cuenta múltiples variables como el motivo de ingreso, conocimiento o no del diagnóstico de VIH, indicación de tratamiento antirretroviral y cumplimiento del mismo, antecedentes patológicos de las pacientes, presencia de enfermedades marcadoras de SIDA e infecciones de transmisión sexual, entre otras. Al comparar los datos entre pre-pandemia y pandemia se evidencia que esta última afectó a la población VIH positiva, en aspectos que van desde el retraso en el diagnóstico de la infección por el retrovirus, el inicio o reinicio de los tratamientos antirretrovirales y diferencias en los múltiples diagnósticos de egreso, incrementándose las consultas por trastornos respiratorios y neurológicos. A todo esto se añadieron las dificultades del personal médico para brindar una buena atención dado por el colapso del sistema sanitario que se hizo presente en dicho contexto. Por otra parte, destacar la importancia de la confección correcta y completa de las historias clínicas para lograr una mejor calidad de atención médica

With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many diagnoses and treatments of various diseases were relegated due to the impact of the acute respiratory syndrome caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in health systems. Taking into account the coexistence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic and that caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the objective of this study was to collect information from an Infectious Disease Hospital in the City of Buenos Aires and analyze the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the diagnosis of diseases that affect the HIV-positive population. Also, was compared the clinical status at admission and discharge of patients in the pre-pandemic period and during the same. For this, 100 epicrisis (clinical summaries) corresponding to 16 women who were hospitalized in the period between January 2020 and July 2021 were analyzed, and 74 epicrisis from patients hospitalized during the seven previous months. Multiple variables were considered, such as the reason for admission, whether or not there was knowledge of the HIV diagnosis, the presence of antiretroviral treatment and compliance with it, the patient's clinical history, the presence of marker AIDS diseases and sexually transmitted infections. When comparing the data between both periods, it can be clearly observed that the pandemic generated by SARS-CoV-2 affected the population with HIV, in aspects ranging from the delay in the diagnosis of the retroviral infection, the start or restart of antiretroviral treatments and differences in the multiple discharge diagnoses, especially those involvement the respiratory and the central nervous systems, that added new difficulties to the medical staff due to the saturation of the health system. The importance of the correct and complete preparation of medical records is highlighted in order to achieve better clinical care

Mucormicosis invasora en pacientes con COVID-19: reporte de 2 casos / Invasive mucormycosis during COVID-19 infection. Report of two cases

COVID-19 disease is associated with a significant number of opportunistic infections, including invasive fungal infections such as mucormycosis. The prevalence of the latter is rare, estimated to be between 0.005 and 1.7 per million inhabitants. Risk factors include hematological diseases, Diabetes Mellitus with poor metabolic control, solid organ transplantation, neutropenia, and prolonged administration of systemic corticosteroids. We report two males aged 60 and 75 years with pulmonary and tracheobronchial invasive mucormycosis, respectively. Both patients had a deficient metabolic control of their diabetes as a predisposing risk factor added to severe COVID-19 infection. High suspicion and early diagnosis are essential for prompt treatment, especially considering the associated high morbidity and mortality of this fungal infection.

Presentación cutánea atípica de histoplasmosis diseminada en paciente con VIH/sida / Atypical cutaneous presentation of disseminated

La histoplasmosis diseminada es una infección oportunista frecuente en los pacientes VIH/sida. Frecuentemente se encuentra compromiso cutáneo, siendo las formas clínicas más comunes el aspecto moluscoide, variceliforme y papulonecrótico.Se presenta el caso de una paciente con una forma cutánea atípica de histoplasmosis diseminada similar a pioderma gangrenoso cuyo diagnóstico fue realizado mediante escarificación.Es importante mantener la sospecha clínica en estas presentaciones atípicas y reforzar la utilidad de la escarificación de lesiones cutáneas como método rápido y efectivo para su diagnóstico.

Disseminated histoplasmosis is a frequent opportunistic infection in HIV/AIDS patients. Cutaneous manifestations are common, the most frequent are molluscum contagio-sum-like lesions, varicelliform eruption and papulo-necro-tic lesions.We present a case of an atypical disseminated cutaneous histoplasmosis with pyoderma gangrenosum-like ulcers, diagnosed by direct examination of tissue smear.It is important to have a high clinical suspicion of this atypical presentation and to emphasize the usefulness of skin smear as a simple and effective test to establish its diagnosis

Genes involucrados con resistencia antimicrobiana en hospitales del Ecuador / Genes involved with antimicrobial resistance in Ecuadorian hospitals

INTRODUCCIÓN. La resistencia a los antimicrobianos es un problema de salud pública actual asociado con alta mortalidad, hospitalización prolongada, alternativas terapéuticas reducidas, mayores costos económicos y la posibilidad de brotes hospitalarios. OBJETIVO. Describir los principales genes involucrados con resistencia antimicrobiana en hospitales del Ecuador. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Se realizó una descripción retrospectiva no experimental, de artículos indexados relacionados con resistencia antimicrobiana en hospitales del Ecuador, con evidencia desde el año 2009 al 2022. La revisión de bibliografías se llevó a cabo en bases de datos como Pubmed, Science Direct y Google Scholar. RESULTADOS. De un grupo original de 77 artículos, se seleccionaron 33 documentos. En Ecuador, varios estudios han descrito los mecanismos moleculares involucrados en la resistencia bacteriana. Sin embargo, en bacterias menos comunes, falta investigación sobre los genes asociados. CONCLUSIONES. Las principales bacterias multirresistentes descritas en Ecuador son Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli y Acinetobacter baumanni, las cuales presentan genes involucrados en la producción de carbapenemasas (blaKPC, blaNDM, blaOXA-48). Estas bacterias presentan altos niveles de resistencia a los antibióticos y son objeto de vigilancia epidemiológica por parte del sistema nacional de salud. A nivel local, otras bacterias presentan mecanismos de resistencia a los carbapenémicos (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter sp., Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter sp.), pero no existen descripciones detalladas del genotipo, sus características microbiológicas o la clínica del paciente. El conocimiento de las tasas de resistencia a los antimicrobianos en los diferentes hospitales, la implementación de un plan de administración de antibióticos, el uso correcto de los equipos de protección personal, el aislamiento de las personas con infecciones multirresistentes, así como el trabajo colaborativo entre las diferentes áreas del hospital, son esenciales para reducir la propagación de estos patógenos.

INTRODUCTION. Antimicrobial resistance is a current public health problem associated with high mortality, prolonged hospitalization, reduced therapeutic alternatives, increased economic costs, and the potential for hospital outbreaks. OBJECTIVE. To describe the main genes involved with antimicrobial resistance in hospitals in Ecuador. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A retrospective non-experimental description of indexed articles related to antimicrobial resistance in hospitals in Ecuador was carried out, with evidence from 2009 to 2022. The review of bibliographies was carried out in databases such as Pubmed, Science Direct and Google Scholar. RESULTS. From an original group of 77 articles, 33 papers were selected. In Ecuador, several studies have described the molecular mechanisms involved in bacterial resistance. However, in less common bacteria, research on the associated genes is lacking. CONCLUSIONS. The main multidrug-resistant bacteria described in Ecuador are Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter baumanni, which present genes involved in the production of carbapenemases (blaKPC, blaNDM, blaOXA-48). These bacteria present high levels of antibiotic resistance and are subject to epidemiological surveillance by the national health system. Locally, other bacteria present mechanisms of resistance to carbapenemics (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter sp., Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter sp.), but there are no detailed descriptions of the genotype, their microbiological characteristics or the patient's clinic. Knowledge of antimicrobial resistance rates in different hospitals, the implementation of an antibiotic stewardship plan, the correct use of personal protective equipment, the isolation of individuals with multidrug-resistant infections, as well as collaborative work between different areas of the hospital, are essential to reduce the spread of these pathogens.

Aspectos clinicoepidemiológicos e imagenológicos de pacientes con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana/sida y diagnóstico de neurotoxoplasmosis / Clinical epidemiological and imaging aspects of patients with human immunodeficiency virus/aids and diagnosis of neurotoxoplasmosis i: en

Introducción: El síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida es el estadio final de una enfermedad crónica, transmisible y progresiva de causa viral. La neurotoxoplasmosis es la infección oportunista más frecuente en pacientes inmunodeprimidos. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes con neurotoxoplasmosis secundaria al virus de inmunodeficiencia humana/sida según variables epidemiológicas, clínicas e imagenológicas. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de 18 pacientes con sida, quienes recibieron diagnóstico clínico y microbiológico de neurotoxoplasmosis, caracterizados según hallazgos en la resonancia magnética por imágenes antes y después del tratamiento, desde enero de 2017 hasta diciembre de 2019. Resultados: En la investigación primaron el sexo masculino, las edades de 34 o menos años (66,7 %) y las manifestaciones clínicas de fiebre (100,0 %) y cefalea (88,9 %). La localización más habitual de las lesiones fue en la unión cortico-subcortical (66,1 %). Resultaron más frecuentes las imágenes hipointensas en T1 y en recuperación de la inversión atenuada de fluido y las imágenes hiperintensas en T2; se destacaron las lesiones múltiples (66,7 %), de pequeño tamaño (50,0 %) y los contornos irregulares (88,9 %). Antes del tratamiento tuvieron mayor frecuencia el realce de tipo anular (72,2 %) y el edema vasogénico de grado 2 (50,0 %); después de este, 55,6 % de los afectados presentaron calcificaciones y 72,2 % hemorragia intralesional. Se evidenció que 77,8 % tuvieron mejoría con respecto al edema cerebral. Conclusiones: La resonancia magnética por imágenes permitió caracterizar a los pacientes con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana/sida y toxoplasmosis cerebral, así como evaluar la respuesta terapéutica a través de las modificaciones en los hallazgos imagenológicos.

Introduction: The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is the final stage of a chronic, communicable and progressive disease of viral cause. The neurotoxoplasmosis is the most frequent opportunist infection in immunodepressed patients. Objective: To characterize patients with secondary neurotoxoplasmosis to human immunodeficiency virus/aids according to epidemiological, clinical and imaging variables. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study of 18 patients with AIDS was carried out, who received clinical and microbiological diagnosis of neurotoxoplasmosis, characterized according to findings in the magnetic resonance by images before and after the treatment, from January, 2017 to December, 2019. Results: In the investigation there was a prevalence of the male sex, the ages of 34 or less years (66.7 %) and the clinical signs of fever (100.0 %) and headache (88.9 %). The most common localization of the lesions was in the cortico-subcortical juntion (66.1 %). The hypointense images in T1 and fluid attenuated inversion recovery and hyperintense images in T2 were the most frequent; the multiple lesions (66.7 %) of small size (50.0 %) and irregular contours (88.9 %) were notable. Before the treatment the enhance of anular type had more frequency (72.2 %) and grade 2 vasogenic edema (50.0 %); after this, 55.6 % of those affected persons presented calcifications and 72.2 % intralesional hemorrhages. It was evidenced that 77.8 % had improvement respect the cerebral edema. Conclusions: The magnetic resonance by images allowed to characterize the patients with human immunodeficiency virus/aids and cerebral toxoplasmosis, as well as to evaluate the therapeutic response through the modifications in the imaging findings.

Caracterização das infecções que acometem o usuário no momento do diagnóstico para o Hiv/Aids / Characterization of infections that affect the user at the moment of diagnosis for Hiv/Aids / Caracterización de las infecciones que afectan a los usuarios en el momento del diagnóstico del Vih/Sida

: O estado do Pará, de 2009 a 2019, apresentou um aumento de 46,5% na taxa de detecção de aids. O que destaca a importância de estudos para a avaliação e acompanhamento deste público. Objetivo: Analisar as infecções que acometem os usuários de um centro de referência no momento de seu diagnóstico para a infecção pelo HIV. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, realizado em um centro de referência da cidade de Santarém, Pará. A amostra foi de 332 prontuários de pacientes diagnosticados para o HIV nos anos de 2016 e 2017. A coleta de dados buscou informações sociodemográficas, clínicas e imunológicas dos pacientes no momento do diagnóstico para a infecção pelo HIV. Os dados foram organizados e analisados por estatística descritiva e inferencial, adotando- se p<0,05. Resultados: Observou-se prevalência do sexo masculino (67%), faixa etária de 15-24 anos (32,2%), solteiros (59%), com vínculo empregatício (64,5%), contagem de linfócitos T CD4+ ≥200 céls/mm3 (54,8%) e carga viral detectável (75,3%). A Candidíase (25%) e a Tuberculose (25%) predominaram como infecções oportunistas (IO), e a Sífilis (67,5%) como outras infecções. Conclusão: Conforme método proposto e os dados já informados, conclui-se que o diagnóstico para a Sífilis se associou ao sexo masculino, bem como a situação de contagem de linfócitos T CD4+ <200 céls/mm3 se associou com a presença de alguma infecção oportunista, da instalação da Candidíase e da Tuberculose.

Introduction: The state of Pará, from 2009 to 2019, showed a 46.5% increase in the AIDS detection rate. What stands out the importance of studies for the evaluation and monitoring of this public. Objective: Analyze the infections that affect the users of a reference center at the moment of diagnosis for HIV infection. Methods: Descriptive study, carried out in a reference center in the city of Santarém, Pará. The sample consisted of 332 records of patients diagnosed with HIV in the years 2016 and 2017. The data collection sought sociodemographic, clinical and immunological information of the patients at the moment diagnosis for HIV infection. The data were organized and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, adopting p <0.05. Results: There was a prevalence of males (67%), aged 15-24 years (32.2%), single (59%), with employment (64.5%), CD4 + T lymphocyte count ≥200 cells/mm3 (54.8%) and detectable viral load (75.3%). Candidiasis (25%) and Tuberculosis (25%) predominated as opportunistic infections (IO), and Syphilis (67.5%) as other infections. Conclusion: According to the proposed method and the data already reported, it is concluded that the diagnosis for Syphilis was associated with the male gender, as well as the situation of CD4 + T lymphocyte count <200 cells/mm3 was associated with the presence of some opportunistic infection, of the installation of Candidiasis and Tuberculosis.

Introducción: El estado de Pará, de 2009 a 2019, presentó un aumento del 46,5% en la tasa de detección del SIDA. Lo que pone de manifiesto la importancia de los estudios para la evaluación y el seguimiento de este público. Objetivo: Analizar las infecciones que sufren los usuarios de un centro de referencia en el momento de su diagnóstico de infección por VIH. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, realizado em um centro de referência da cidade de Santarém, Pará. La muestra fue de 332 historias clínicas de pacientes diagnosticados de VIH en los años 2016 y 2017. La recogida de datos buscaba información sociodemográfica, clínica e inmunológica de los pacientes en el momento del diagnóstico de la infección por VIH. Los datos se organizaron y analizaron mediante estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales, adoptando p<0,05. Resultados: Se observó la prevalencia del sexo masculino (67%), el grupo de edad de 15 a 24 años (32,2%), la soltería (59%), el empleo (64,5%), el recuento de linfocitos T CD4+ ≥200 células/mm3 (54,8%) y la carga viral detectable (75,3%). La candidiasis (25%) y la tuberculosis (25%) predominaron como infecciones oportunistas (IO), y la sífilis (67,5%) como otras infecciones. Conclusión: De acuerdo con el método propuesto y los datos ya informados, se concluye que el diagnóstico de Sífilis se asocia al sexo masculino, así como la situación de contagio de linfocitos T CD4+ <200 células/mm3 se asocia a la presencia de alguna infección oportunista, a la instauración de la Candidiasis y a la Tuberculosis.

Loss of an eye to mucormycosis following corticosteroid therapy for COVID-19

Mucormycosis is a rare, sometimes severe fungal infection that has emerged as a possible complication of COVID-19. We report a case of a non-diabetic, apparently immunocompetent patient diagnosed with rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis shortly after COVID-19 treatment with dexamethasone. The patient received optimized systemic antifungal therapy and extensive surgical treatment. So far, four months after the last hospital discharge, the patient has been in good general condition. This case is a dramatic reminder that beneficial corticosteroid therapy in general inevitably carries a risk of opportunistic infection, and corticosteroid therapy for COVID-19 risks orbital-rhinocerebral mucormycosis that clinicians should watch for with vigilance.

Opportunistic Infections and associated factors among HIV infected patients on anti-retroviral treatment at Bombo Hospital in Tanga Region, Tanzania

Background: A substantive number of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) develop Opportunistic Infections (OIs). The introduction of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) in Tanzania led to a significant decline in opportunistic infections and a slower progression to AIDS, but OIs are still prevalent. This study was set to determine the magnitude of OIs and associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) attending care and treatment clinic at Bombo Regional Referral hospital, Tanga region. Materials And Methods: A cross­sectional descriptive study was conducted on HIV/AIDS patients on ART attending Bombo Hospital in Tanga from July to October 2019. A non-probability, consecutive sampling technique was employed to obtain study participants. Data were collected using available data obtained from the patients' files, hospital record books and interviews of study participants by using semi-structured questionnaires. Data were entered into the computer using Excel 2013, cleaned and analysed using Epi Info version 7.2.2.6. Any p-value of < 0.05, at a 95% confidence interval was regarded as statistically significant. Results : The study showed that out of the 360 participants, 126 cases (35.0%) of OIs were reported. Pulmonary Tuberculosis had the highest prevalence of 18.0% among PLHIV while other opportunistic Infections altogether contributed 17.0%. Late ART initiation (OR=10.9, 95% CI: 6.5 ­ 18.3, p-value <0.001), Poor drug adherence (OR=19, 95% CI: 9.0 ­ 39.7, p-value <0.001), female gender (69% vs. 31%), which was however, not statistically significant (p-value ­ 0.904), Informal and Primary School education (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1 ­ 1.6, p-value 0.04) being married (OR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.3 ­ 3.4, p ­ value 0.004) and widowed/widower (OR=7.7, 95% CI: 1.7 ­ 33.7, p ­ value 0.007) respectively were found to be associated with OIs to PLHIV.CONCLUSION : The rate of OIs still high among PLHIV, Pulmonary Tuberculosis is the leading disease with 18.0% of all OIs symptomatic patients. Delay in ART initiation after positive test results, poor drug adherence and moderate malnutrition have been identified as major risk factors affecting 66.0%, 70.0%, 71%of PLWHA with OIs. We recommend early initiation of ART, Education on ART adherence and refilling of large quantities of ARV drugs to individuals working far from their homes.

La clínica en el diagnóstico de la neurotoxoplasmosis / Clinic in the diagnosis of neurotoxoplasmosis

RESUMEN La toxoplasmosis cerebral o neurotoxoplasmosis es una de las infecciones oportunistas más frecuentes en los pacientes positivos al VIH. Se produce aproximadamente en el 10 % de los pacientes con sida no tratados. La localización de la infección, causada por el parásito Toxoplasma gondii, indica inmunodeficiencia severa, con linfocitos T CD4+ menor a 100 cel/mm3. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir la evolución clínica e imagenológica de un paciente con diagnóstico de neurotoxoplasmosis, atendido en el Hospital Militar Dr. Carlos J. Finlay: hombre de 33 años, con síntomas neurológicos focales, sin factor de riesgo vascular, con estudios de imagen sugestiva de proceso expansivo intracraneal. Durante su ingreso se recibe el resultado de positivo al VIH y se interpreta como una neurotoxoplasmosis. Se empleó tratamiento antiparasitario con mejoría del trastorno neurológico y de las neuroimágenes. Ante un paciente con VIH y síntomas neurológicos focales se debe pensar en una neurotoxoplasmosis. La respuesta al tratamiento en el caso estudiado confirmó el diagnóstico (AU).

ABSTRACT Cerebral toxoplasmosis or neurotoxoplasmosis is one of the most common opportunistic infections in HIV-positive patients. It occurs in approximately 10 % of untreated AIDS patients. The location of the infection, caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, indicates severe immunodeficiency, with CD4+ T lymphocytes less than 100 cell/mm3. The objective of this work was to describe the clinical and imaging evolution of a patient with diagnosis of neurotoxoplasmosis, attended at the Military Hospital Dr. Carlos J. Finlay: 33-year-old man, with focal neurological symptoms, without vascular risk factor, with studies of suggestive imaging of intracranial expansive process. During admission, the HIV positive result is received and interpreted as a neurotoxoplasmosis. Antiparasitic treatment was used with improvement of neurological disorder and neuroimagens. In the case of a patient with HIV and focal neurological symptoms doctors should think about neurotoxoplasmosis. The response to treatment in the case studied confirmed the diagnosis (AU).

Infecciones asociadas con dispositivos, perfil microbiológico y resistencia bacteriana en unidades de cuidados intensivos de Casanare, Colombia / Device-Associated Infections, Microbiological Profile and Bacterial Resistance in Intensive Care Units of Casanare ­ Colombi / Infecções associadas a dispositivos, perfil microbiológico e resistência bacteriana em unidades de terapia intensiva em Casanare (Colômbia)

Introducción: Entre las infecciones asociadas con la atención en salud, las relacionadas con dispositivos constituyen la patología más común en los pacientes que ingresan al servicio de cuidados intensivos. Objetivos: Determinar la distribución de las infecciones asociadas con dispositivos, su perfil microbiológico y resistencia bacteriana en las unidades de cuidados intensivos del departamento de Casanare, Colombia entre 2019 y 2020. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de corte transversal. La población de estudio fueron 93 pacientes admitidos entre enero de 2019 y diciembre de 2020 en dos unidades de cuidados intensivos del depar-tamento de Casanare. La información fue suministrada por la Secretaría de Salud Departamental, a través de los reportes de los laboratorios clínicos por medio del programa WHONET 5.6. Resultados: Las infecciones del torrente sanguíneo asociadas con el uso de catéter fueron las más frecuentes, con un 84 % (n: 78); seguidas de las infecciones sintomáticas de las vías urinarias asociadas con catéter, con un 12 % (n: 11), y en menor proporción las neumonías asociadas con ventilador mecánico, en un 4 % (n: 4). Las bacterias gramnegativas presentaron mayor frecuencia (61 %; n: 14) en relación con las grampositivas (39 %; n: 9). Conclusión: Las infecciones más frecuentes en los servicios analizados fueron las del torrente sanguíneo asociadas con el catéter y Pseudomonas aeruginosa fue el microrganismo más prevalente en los tres tipos de infección; mien-tras que el Enterococcus faecium fue resistente a una variedad de antibióticos. Tales resultados, al ser comparados con estudios realizados en varios países, demostraron que la distribución de estas infecciones es variable. Palabras clave: infecciones oportunistas; unidad de cuidados intensivos; dispositivos de acceso vascular; neumonía asociada al ventilador; infecciones relacionadas con catéteres; agentes antibacterianos; resistencia a medicamentos.

Introduction: Among health care associated infections, device associated infections are the most common pathology in patients admitted to the intensive care service. Objectives: To determine the distribution of device-associated infections, their microbiological profile and bacterial resistance, in the intensive care units of the Department of Casanare between 2019 and 2020. Materials and methods: An observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study was carried out. The study population was 93 patients admitted between January 2019 and December 2020 in two Inten-sive Care Units of the Department of Casanare. The information was provided by the Departmental Health Secretariat through the reports of the Clinical Laboratories through the WHONET 5.6 program. Results: Catheter-associated bloodstream infections were the most frequent with 84% (n: 78), fo-llowed by catheter-associated symptomatic urinary tract infections with 12% (n: 11) and associated pneumonia to a lesser extent 4% mechanical ventilator (n: 4). Gram negative bacteria had a higher frequency 61% (n: 14) compared to Gram positive ones 39% (n: 9). Conclusion: The infection associated with devices, the most frequent in the analyzed services were the infections of the blood stream associated with the catheter and P. aeruginosa was the most preva-lent microorganism in the three types of infection. E. faecium presented resistance to a variety of an-tibiotics, results that when compared with studies carried out in several countries worldwide showed that the distribution of these infections is variable.

Introdução: Entre as infecções associadas aos cuidados de saúde, as infecções associadas a dispositi-vos são a patologia mais comum em pacientes internados em terapia intensiva. Objetivo: Determinar a distribuição de infecções associadas a dispositivos, seu perfil microbiológico e resistência bacteriana em unidades de terapia intensiva no departamento de Casanare, Colômbia entre 2019 e 2020. Materiais e métodos: Estudo retrospectivo observacional transversal. A população do estudo foi de 93 pacientes admitidos entre janeiro de 2019 e dezembro de 2020 em duas unidades de terapia in-tensiva no departamento de Casanare. As informações foram fornecidas pela Secretaria de Saúde do Departamento, através de informes de laboratório clínico utilizando o programa WHONET 5.6. Resultado: As infecções da corrente sanguínea associadas a cateteres foram as mais frequentes com 84% (n: 78), seguidas pelas infecções do trato urinário sintomáticas associadas a cateteres com 12% (n: 11), e em menor grau as pneumonias associadas a ventiladores mecânicos com 4% (n: 4). As bac-térias gram-negativas eram mais frequentes (61%; n: 14) do que as gram-positivas (39%; n: 9). Conclusão: As infecções mais frequentes nos serviços analisados foram infecções associadas a cate-teres e Pseudomonas aeruginosa foi o microrganismo mais prevalente nos três tipos de infecção, en-quanto Enterococcus faecium era resistente a uma variedade de antibióticos. Tais resultados, quando comparados com estudos realizados em vários países, demonstraram que a distribuição dessas infe-cções é variável.

Manifestações orais do Covid-19: uma breve revisão da literatura / Oral manifestations of Covid-19: a brief review of the literature

A pandemia gerada pelo SARS-CoV-2 gerou uma série de estudos sobre essa nova doença. Este cenário proporcionou mudanças na odontologia, modificando a forma de atendimento e a rotina do consultório. O conhecimento sobre as implicações desse vírus no sistema estomatognático pode fornecer informações valiosas no conhecimento sobre o mecanismo dessa doença na cavidade oral. Dessa forma, foi realizada uma revisão de literatura, a fim de discutir os efeitos do COVID-19 na cavidade oral. No entanto, há poucas evidências na literatura sobre a correlação da COVID-19 e manifestações orais. Pode-se concluir que o vírus possui reflexo na cavidade oral, apresentando diferentes alterações, tais como: úlceras, periodontite, alterações do paladar, infecções oportunistas, dentre outras. Ainda se faz necessária a realização de mais estudos, para compreensão dos mecanismos fisiopatológicos da doença. Além disso, o trabalho ressalta a importância do cirurgião-dentista no ambiente hospitalar, para diagnóstico e conduta no tratamento dessas manifestações na cavidade oral(AU)

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has spawned several studies on this new disease. This scenario provided changes in Dentistry by modifying the form of care and the routine of the office. The knowledge about the implications of this virus in the stomatognathic system can provide valuable information in the knowledge about the mechanism of this disease in the oral cavity. Thus, a literature review was carried out to discuss the effects of COVID-19 on the oral cavity. However, there is little evidence in the literature about the correlation between COVID-19 and oral manifestations. It can be concluded that the virus is reflected in the oral cavity, such as ulcers, periodontitis, changes in taste, opportunistic infections, among others. Further studies are still needed to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease. Besides, the work highlights the importance of the Dental Surgeon in the hospital environment for diagnosis and management in the treatment of these manifestations in the oral cavity(AU)

Imunomodulação causada por parasitoses oportunistas em casos de COVID-19: um breve estudo / Immunomodulation caused by opportunistic parasites in COVID-19 cases: a brief report

Até o presente momento, foram notificadas mais de 550 mil mortes causadas por COVID-19 no Brasil. Estimulada pelo SARS-Cov-2, a formação de um inflamassoma causa um processo inflamatório sistêmico, responsável pela progressão da enfermidade, e ainda favorece o surgimento de doenças oportunistas, como as parasitoses, que são excelentes moduladoras do sistema imunológico, induzindo uma tolerância do organismo através do equilíbrio entre as respostas pró-inflamatórias e anti-inflamatórias. A partir disso, um levantamento bibliográfico foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar a possível relação imunomoduladora das infecções parasitárias na COVID-19. Há uma extensa discussão quanto à presença de parasitoses concomitantes a esta coronavirose, devido à possibilidade de modulação do sistema imunológico, que pode ser capaz de refrear ou intensificar a progressão da COVID-19, bem como interferir na soroconversão pós-vacina dos indivíduos afetados, uma vez que doenças diretamente relacionadas aos processos inflamatórios, como Diabetes mellitus do tipo 2, tornam estes indivíduos mais susceptíveis às formas mais graves desta pandemia. Sendo assim, ainda que alguns autores sugiram a possibilidade da helmintíase experimental como uma alternativa para a imunomodulação, trata-se de uma ideia controversa, que necessita de maiores estudos para avaliar se tal procedimento seria seguro e viável de ser aplicado ou não.

Until now, more than 550,000 deaths caused by COVID-19 have been reported in Brazil. Stimulated by Sars-Cov-2, the formation of an inflammasome causes a systemic inflammatory process, responsible for the progression of the disease, and favors the emergence of opportunistic diseases, such as parasitosis, which are excellent modulators of the immune system, inducing a tolerance of the organism through the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses. From this, a bibliographical survey was carried out with the aim of evaluating the possible immunomodulatory relationship of parasitic infections in COVID-19. There is an extensive discussion regarding the presence of parasitic diseases concomitant to this coronavirus, due to the possibility of modulation of the immune system, which may be able to curb or intensify the progression of COVID-19, as well as interfere with the post-vaccine seroconversion of affected individuals, a since diseases directly related to inflammatory processes, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, make these individuals more susceptible to the more severe forms of this pandemic. Thus, although some authors suggest the possibility of experimental helminthiasis as an alternative to immunomodulation. This is a controversial idea, which needs further studies to assess whether such a procedure would be safe and viable to apply or not.

Rhinocerebral mucormycosis to the rise? The impact of the worldwide diabetes epidemic

Abstract The authors present seven cases of rhinocerebral mucormycosis associated to diabetes mellitus, which is a disease with epidemic proportions affecting individuals worldwide, particularly in developing countries, and which poses significant morbidity and mortality. Mucormycosis is an opportunistic fungal infection with high mortality and requires an invasive therapeutic approach to save the patient's life with significant morbidity and sequelae, thus prevention is crucial.

Proteinose alveolar pulmonar: Relato de caso / Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: Case report

A proteinose alveolar pulmonar (PAP) é rara e caracterizada por preenchimento alveolar com material lipoproteináceo. A proteinose alveolar é caracterizada por um alvéolo com material eosinofílico, acelular, finamente granular, com fendas de colesterol. Este relato de caso descreve um paciente do sexo masculino, 2 anos, portador de hipogamaglobulinemia. O paciente foi internado com quadro compatível com Stevens- Johnson após uso de amoxicilina e clavulanato para quadro de otite média aguda. Posteriormente, foi encaminhado à unidade de terapia intensiva devido à piora respiratória clínica e radiológica. Biópsia pulmonar: proteinose alveolar com alvéolos distendidos por material proteináceo, eosinofílico e grumoso com infiltrado linfo- histiocitário local. A proteinose alveolar pulmonar é rara e o diagnóstico correto deve ser realizado para que seja realizado tratamento adequado e acompanhamento da evolução. Deve-se atentar para complicações, especialmente infecções oportunistas.

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is rare and it is characterized by alveolar filling with lipoproteinaceous material. Alveolar proteinosis is characterized by an alveolus with eosinophilic, acellular, finely granular material, with cholesterol cracks. This case report describes a 2-yearold male patient with hypogammaglobulinemia. The patient was hospitalized with Stevens-Johnson-compatible condition after use of amoxicillin and clavulanate for acute otitis media. Subsequently, he was referred to the intensive care unit due to worsening clinical and radiological breathing. Lung biopsy: alveolar proteinosis with alveoli distended by proteinaceous, eosinophilic and lumpy material with local lymphohistiocytic infiltrate. Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is rare and the correct diagnosis must be made in order to carry out an appropriate treatment and follow-up of the evolution. Attention should be paid to complications, especially opportunistic infections.

Criptococosis pulmonar en un paciente con colitis ulcerativa tratado con prednisolona y azatioprina / Pulmonary cryptococcosis in a patient with ulcerative colitis treated with prednisolone and azathioprine

Resumen La enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal comprende la enfermedad de Crohn (EC) y la colitis ulcerativa (CU). Esta última es una patología crónica caracterizada por una inflamación difusa de la mucosa colónica, que afecta el recto y se extiende de forma proximal. Su curso clínico es intermitente, con exacerbaciones y remisiones. Su tratamiento, por lo general, es farmacológico, con corticoides, inmunomoduladores e inhibidor del factor de necrosis tumoral (anti tumor necrosis factor, TNF), los cuales causan un estado de inmunosupresión en el paciente, que puede asociarse en algunos casos a infecciones oportunistas. En la literatura se describe la aparición de la criptococosis pulmonar en pacientes con infección por el virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH). En otros casos se asocia al tratamiento farmacológico de pacientes con EC, así como con otras infecciones oportunistas, tales como la tuberculosis y el herpes. Presentamos uno de los primeros casos de criptococosis pulmonar en un paciente con diagnóstico de colitis ulcerativa, quien recibió tratamiento escalonado con salicilatos, inmunomoduladores y terapia biológica. La infección fue documentada clínica, radiológica e histológicamente. El paciente recibió el tratamiento adecuado y presentó una evolución satisfactoria.

Abstract Inflammatory bowel disease comprises Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), the latter being a chronic disease characterized by diffuse inflammation of the colonic mucosa that affects the rectum and extends proximally. Its clinical course is intermittent with exacerbations and remissions and its treatment is generally pharmacological, with steroids, immunomodulators, and anti-tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNF), which cause the patient to be in a state of immunosuppression associated, in some cases, with opportunistic infections. The literature describes the occurrence of pulmonary cryptococcosis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, in cases associated with drug treatment of patients with CD, as well as with other opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis and herpes. This is one of the first cases of pulmonary cryptococcosis reported in a patient diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, who received step therapy with salicylates, immunomodulators, and biological therapy. The infection was documented clinically, radiologically, and histologically. The patient received the appropriate treatment and had a satisfactory evolution.

Infecciones fúngicas en un hospital público de referencia para la atención de personas con VIH/ SIDA, Medellín 2013-2017 / Fungal infections in a public hospital of reference for the care of people with HIV/AIDS, Medellín 2013-2017

Resumen Introducción: Las micosis son un problema de salud de gran importancia por su frecuencia, gravedad clínica y resistencia a los azoles. Algunos estudios han reportado micosis cercanas al 10% en persona con Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana, con múltiples etiologías como Pneumocysti jirovecci, candidiasis, criptococosis, histoplasmosis y aspergilosis. Objetivo: Estimar la frecuencia y caracterizar las infecciones fúngicas en pacientes atendidos en un hospital público de referencia para el manejo de personas con Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana de Medellín-Colombia, 2013-2017. Métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo transversal con 200 pacientes atendidos en el Hospital la María de Medellín. Se utilizó fuente de información secundaria que brindó variables sociodemográficas y microbiológicas; los análisis se basaron en frecuencias, intervalos de confianza para proporciones y prueba chi cuadrado para comparar la frecuencia de infección según sexo y grupo etario, en SPSS 25.0. Resultados: La edad promedio fue 45,5±17,3 y 66% fueron hombres. La frecuencia global de infecciones fúngicas fue 12,5% (IC95%=7,67-17,33), sin diferencias estadísticas según el sexo y grupo etario. La prevalencia de Candida spp. fue 5,5% (IC95%=0,09-8,91), 1,5% (IC95%=0,31-4,32) para Histoplasma capsulatum y Cryptococcus spp., y 0,5% (IC95%=0,01-2,75) Aspergillus fumigatus. Conclusión: Se halló una elevada frecuencia de infecciones fúngicas en la población de estudio, con predominio de Candida albicans, esto constituye un hallazgo relevante para mejorar la vigilancia de este tipo de infecciones en hospitales de referencia para la atención de personas con el Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana y establecer líneas de base para estudios posteriores. MÉD.UIS. 2020;33(2):17-24.

Abstract Introduction: Mycosis is a health problem of great importance due to its frequency, clinical severity and resistance to azoles. Some studies have reported mycosis about 10% in person with Human Immunodeficiency Virus, with multiple etiologies such as Pneumocysti jirovecci, candidiasis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis and aspergillosis. Objective: To estimate the frequency and to characterize the fungal infections in patients of a specialized hospital for the care of people with HIV in Medellín-Colombia, 2013-2017. Methods: Descriptive observational cross-sectional study with 200 patients attended at the Hospital La María in Medellín. Secondary information source with sociodemographic and microbiological variables was used; analyzes included frequencies, confidence intervals for proportions and chi square test to compare the frequency of infection according to sex and age group, in SPSS 25.0. Results: The average age was 45.5 ± 17.3 and 66% were men. The overall frequency of fungal infections was 12.5% (CI 95% = 7.67-17.33), without statistical differences according to sex and age group. The prevalence of Candida spp. was 5.5% (CI 95% = 0.09-8.91), Histoplasma capsulatum and Cryptocuccus spp. 1.5% (CI 95% = 0.31-4.32) and Aspergillus fumigatus 0.5% (CI 95% = 0.01-2.75). Conclusion: We found a high frequency of fungal infections in the study population, with predominance of Candida albicans, this is a relevant finding to improve the surveillance of this type of infections in reference hospitals for the care of people with HIV/AIDS and establish baselines for further studies. MÉD.UIS. 2020;33(2):17-24

Emphysematous gastritis due to Sarcina ventriculi infection in a diabetic liver-kidney transplant recipient

Emphysematous gastritis (EG) is a rare and potentially lethal process caused by invasive, gas-producing bacteria leading to inflammation and gas dissection of the stomach. The most common etiologic agents are Clostridium infections, but other organisms, including enterobacteria, staphylococcus, and fungi have also been identified. We report the first case of EG due to Sarcina ventriculi in a solid organ transplant recipient, who presented with epigastric pain and vomiting. The patient had a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) with recurrent episodes of ketoacidosis and systemic diabetic complications, including severe gastroparesis. CT scan studies demonstrated EG with venous air, and endoscopy showed severe gastritis and ulcerations. In the gastric biopsies, abundant Sarcina ventriculi were noted in areas of mucosal/submucosal necrosis. Antibiotic treatment was instituted at admission, and subsequent endoscopy demonstrated the disappearance of Sarcina, with some improvement of the gastric inflammation; however, the patient developed septic shock with multiorgan failure and expired. This case highlights the need to consider other infectious etiologies in transplant patients, in addition to the well-known opportunistic infections.