Gestión de calidad en equipos de gases en sangre POCT. Expandiendo las fronteras del laboratorio / Quality management in POCT blood gas equipment. Expanding the frontiers of the laboratory

La realización de pruebas de laboratorio en el lugar de atención del paciente (POCT) de equipos de gases en sangre representa un desafío continuo tanto para los usuarios como para el laboratorio. La vulnerabilidad al error y la amenaza del riesgo que rodea esta forma de trabajo obliga a establecer un sistema de trabajo robusto para la obtención de un "resultado confiable" cerca del paciente crítico. La formación de un grupo interdisciplinario, la capacitación de usuarios externos al laboratorio, el aseguramiento de la calidad analítica y la conectividad, son los cuatro pilares sobre los cuales se sostiene el éxito de esta nueva era de laboratorio clínico. Además es necesaria la reinvención de la imagen bioquímica, asumiendo un rol de líder, comunicador, asesor e integrado al sistema de salud (AU)

Point of care laboratory testing (POCT) with blood gas equipment is an ongoing challenge for both the users and the laboratory. The vulnerability to error and the threat of risk that surrounds this way of working necessitates the establishment of a robust working system to obtain "reliable results" for the critically ill patient. The creation of an interdisciplinary group, the training of external users, analytical quality assurance, and connectivity are the four pillars on which the success of this new era of clinical laboratories is based. It is also necessary to reinvent the biochemical image, assuming the role of leader, communicator, and advisor integrated into the health system (AU)

Validación clínica de la prueba RT-LAMP para el diagnóstico rápido del SARS-CoV-2 / Clinical validation of the isothermal RT-LAMP test for rapid diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2

Introducción. Desde el primer reporte en la provincia de Wuhan (China) en el año 2019, el SARS-CoV-2 se ha diseminado por todo el mundo, provocando un enorme impacto en la salud pública. Para su diagnóstico, la Organización Mundial de la Salud ha incentivado el desarrollo de pruebas rápidas, de simple ejecución, sensibles y específicas, que complementan la RT-qPCR como prueba de referencia. La prueba RT-LAMP ha mostrado ser una excelente alternativa para la detección del SARS-CoV-2 en diferentes biofluidos. Objetivo. Validar la técnica RT-LAMP colorimétrica en muestras de hisopado nasofaríngeo previamente confirmadas por RT-qPCR, usando el protocolo Charité, Berlín, Alemania. Materiales y métodos. Un total de 153 muestras de hisopado nasofaríngeo de individuos con sospecha de COVID-19 se sometieron a RT-qPCR y RT-LAMP, usando un estuche comercial colorimétrico (NEB, Germany). La RT-LAMP se practicó con las muestras de ARN extraídas del hisopado nasofaríngeo y con muestras crudas sin previa extracción de ARN. El resultado fue evaluado por un simple cambio de color en la reacción. Resultados. La sensibilidad y especificidad de la técnica RT-LAMP para detectar el gen N del SARS-CoV-2 mediante un set de cebadores previamente reportados (set de Broughton), arrojó valores de 0,97 (0,85-1,00) y 0,81 (0,65-0,92), respectivamente, con un intervalo de confianza del 95%. Otro set de cebadores dirigidos contra otra región del mismo gen (set de Lalli) arrojó valores de sensibilidad y especificidad de 0,96 (0,78-1,00) y 0,77 (0,55-0,92), respectivamente. Sin previa extracción de ARN, se encontró que la sensibilidad fue del 0,95 (0,74-1,00) y la especificidad del 0,88 (0,64-0,99). Conclusiones. Estos resultados evidencian que la técnica RT-LAMP podría considerarse una prueba diagnóstica rápida, de fácil ejecución, libre de equipos sofisticados, sensible y específica, para el diagnóstico del SARS-CoV-2 en muestras de hisopados nasofaríngeos.

Introduction: Since the first report in Wuhan (China) in 2019, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has spread throughout the world, with a significant impact in public health. To contain its transmission, the WHO has encouraged the development of rapid, simple, sensitive and specific tests that complement qRT-PCR, as the gold standard. RT-LAMP has shown to be a good alternative to detect SARS-CoV-2 in different fluid samples. Objective: To validate the colorimetric RT-LAMP technique using two sets of primers targeting N gene of SARS-CoV-2 in 117 nasopharyngeal swab samples previously confirmed by RT-qPCR, using the Charité/Berlin protocol. Material and methods: A total of 153 nasopharyngeal swab samples from individuals with suspected COVID-19 were subjected to qRT-PCR and RT-LAMP using a commercial colorimetric kit (NEB, Germany). RT-LAMP was performed using both extracted RNA samples and raw samples without prior RNA extraction, and the result was assessed by a simple color change in the reaction. Results: Sensitivity and specificity for the previously reported RT-LAMP primers (Broughton set) targeting N gene of SARS-CoV-2 were 0.97 (0.85-1.00) and 0.81 (0.65-0.92) respectively, with CI95%. The Lalli primers targeting another region of the N gene used showed a sensitivity value of 0.96 (0.78-1.00) and a specificity of 0.77 (0.55-0.92). Without RNA extraction we found a sensitivity value of 0.95 (0.74, 1.00) and a specificity of 0.88 (0.64, 0.99). A sensitivity value of 0.95 (0.74-1.00) and a specificity 0.88 (0.64-0.99) were found without prior RNA extraction. Conclusion: Taking together, the results showed that RT-LAMP technique could be considered as a rapid diagnostic test, easy to perform, free of sophisticated equipment, sensitive and specific to diagnose SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal swabs with and without prior RNA extraction, allowing its implementation in places with scarce resources.

HemoTypeSC point-of-care testing shows high sensitivity with alkaline cellulose acetate hemoglobin electrophoresis for screening hemoglobin SS and SC genotypes

ABSTRACT Introduction: By providing timely actionable results for prompt management, point-of-care testing (POCT) kits have revolutionised medical care for various diseases, ranging from infectious diseases like malaria to genetic disorders, such as sickle cell disease (SCD). They are, however, underutilised in the diagnosis of SCD in developing countries, where the need is greatest. Objective: The study was aimed at assessing the sensitivity of HemoTypeSC POCT among a cohort of children with SCD, previously diagnosed by Alkaline cellulose acetate hemoglobin electrophoresis (ACAE), with or without high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, HemoTypeSC test was conducted on all participants and its sensitivity was determined by comparing results with those obtained using ACAE. Discordance was verified with HPLC. Results: One hundred and forty-five children aged one to 19 years were studied. There were 84 males and 61 females (male: female ratio = 1.4:1). The HemoTypeSC was able to correctly diagnose sickle cell anemia (SCA) and hemoglobin SC in all (100%) of the children tested. Conclusion: The HemoTypeSC shows high sensitivity in detecting SCA and hemoglobin SC. Hence, it is useful for targeted screening of individuals suspected of having SCD, leading to rapid diagnosis of these hemoglobinopathies, even in resource-constrained settings.

Características clínicas, métodos diagnósticos y evolución de la criptococosis extrameníngea en personas viviendo con VIH / Clinical features, diagnosis methods and evolution in non meningeal cryptococcosis in people living with VIH

La criptococosis es una micosis grave que se manifiesta, en el 90% de los casos, como una meningoencefalitis, especialmente en las personas con VIH. El objetivo de este estudio es describir los casos de criptococosis extrameníngea en personas viviendo con VIH y conocer cuántas de estas padecen compromiso meníngeo concomitante. Además, determinar la relación con el título de antígeno polisacárido capsular de Cryptococcus en suero. Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, observacional y analítico. Se incluyeron personas viviendo con VIH cuyo diagnóstico inicial de criptococosis se había realizado a partir de muestras extrameníngeas en el período comprendido entre 2012 y 2019. Los pacientes se dividieron en dos grupos. Grupo 1, pacientes sin compromiso meníngeo; Grupo 2, aquellos que finalmente tenían compromiso del SNC. De un total de 531 criptococosis registradas en ese período, se incluyeron 113 pacientes (21%), de los cuales en 58 se comprobó el compromiso meníngeo. No se observaron diferencias significativas en cuanto a la mortalidad entre ambos grupos.Ninguno de los pacientes con antigenemia por LFA (antígeno capsular en suero por inmunocromatografía) positiva, pero con antigenemia por aglutinación de partículas de látex (AL) negativa, tuvo compromiso meníngeo. Se observó que títulos de antígeno para Cryptococcus en suero por AL mayor o igual a 1/100 se correlacionaron con un aumento de 30 veces en la posibilidad de padecer meningitis. En todos los casos se debe descartar el compromiso del SNC. La AL sigue siendo una prueba útil y complementaria, debido a que en los casos con AL negativa no se observó compromiso meníngeo

Cryptococcosis is a serious mycosis that manifests itself, in 90% of cases, as meningoencephalitis, especially in AIDS patients. The objective of this study is to describe the extra-meningeal cases of cryptococcosis in people living with HIV and to know how many of them suffer from concomitant meningeal involvement. Also, to determine its relationship with the Cryptococcus capsular polysaccharide antigen titer in serum.A retrospective, observational and analytical study was carried out. HIV-positive patients whose initial diagnosis had been made from extrameningeal samples in the period between 2012 and 2019 were included. The patients were divided into 2 groups. Group 1: patients without meningeal involvement; group 2: those who finally had CNS involvement.Of a total of 531 cryptococcosis registered in this period, 113 patients (21%) were included, of whom meningeal involvement was confirmed in 58. No significant differences were observed in terms of mortality in both groups.None of the patients with positive LFA antigenemia (Capsular antigen detection by lateral Flow assay) but negative latex particle agglutination (LA) antigenemia had meningeal involvement. LFA was found to be highly sensitive and allows early diagnosis, but it does not replace other diagnostic procedures.Serum Cryptococcus antigen titers for by LA greater than or equal to 1/100 were found to correlate with a 30-fold increase in the likelihood of meningitis.In all cases, CNS involvement must be ruled out. LA continues to be a useful and complementary test, because in cases with negative LA, no meningeal involvement was observed

Performance of point-of-care testing for cervical cancer screening / 中华预防医学杂志

Objective: To evaluate the performance of point-of-care testing for cervical cancer and precancerous lesions screening. Methods: In September 2020, 197 and 273 women were selected by using simple random sampling method from "self-sampling" cohort and "physician-sampling" cohort established in Xiangyuan county, Shanxi Province, China, respectively. Cervical exfoliated cells were collected by women themselves or gynecologists. All samples were detected by POCT and women with positive result were directly referred for colposcopy. Subsequently, all the samples were detected by careHPV and PCR test. Colposcopy and punch biopsy were performed for women with POCT negative but careHPV or PCR test positive at another visit. Using histopathological diagnosis as the gold standard, we calculated sensitivity, specificity and drew the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The accuracy of POCT was analyzed and compared to that of careHPV and conventional PCR test in cervical cancer and precancerous lesions screening. Results: The median (Q1 , Q3) age of 470 women was 51 (45, 57) years old. Based on self-sampling, the sensitivity and specificity of POCT for CIN2+ were 100.00% (95%CI: 56.56%-100.00%) and 28.95% (95%CI: 22.97%-35.76%), respectively. Compared with POCT, POCT HPV16/18 test had similar sensitivity and higher specificity of 89.47% (95%CI: 84.30%-93.08%). Self-sampling POCT HPV16/18 test had an AUC of 0.947 (95%CI:0.910-0.985), which was higher than that of careHPV and PCR test. Physician-sampling POCT test had 100.00% sensitivity (95%CI: 64.57%-100.00%) and 55.85% specificity (95%CI: 49.83%-61.70%) for detecting CIN2+. POCT HPV16/18 test had lower sensitivity (71.43%, 95%CI: 35.90%-91.76%) and higher specificity (92.45%, 95%CI: 88.63%-95.06%). POCT HPV16/18 test generally showed similar AUC on both self-collected samples and clinician-collected samples (0.947 vs 0.819, P=0.217). Conclusion: POCT HPV16/18 test is an effective method with relatively high sensitivity and specificity for cervical cancer screening.

Prognosis of hospitalized children under 2 years of age with co-detection of influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus at the healthcare facility / Prognóstico de crianças hospitalizadas menores de 2 anos com codetecção de influenza A e vírus sincicial respiratório no local de atendimento

Abstract Objectives: the aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of co-detection of Flu A and RSV using rapid immunochromatographic tests at the point of care, in pediatric patients under 2 years of age in a general hospital. Methods: a retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze clinical outcomes in hospitalized infants with viral respiratory disease with positive results of rapid immunochromatographic test for RSV and/or Flu-A, from 2013 to 2018. A logistic regression model was adjusted to analyze predictors of orotracheal intubation during hospitalization. Results: we analyzed 220 cases: RSV (192), Flu-A (9), co-detection (19). Lethality rate was 1.8% (2 cases), and 88% (194) were under 1 year of age. Mean time of hospitalizations was higher in patients with co-detection. Variables significantly associated with orotracheal intubation were: younger age in months, comorbidities, RSV and Flu-A co-detection, and bacterial pneumonia during hospitalization. Conclusions: RSV and Flu-Aco-detection was associated with the least favorable clinical prognoses in this study. Rapid test diagnosis may provide important information at the point of care, because molecular panels are not widely accessible in general hospitals. Rapid diagnosis allows timely evaluation and treatment.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar o impacto da codetecção de Influenza A (FluA) e Vírus Sincicial Respiratório (VSR) por meio de testes imunocromatográficos rápidos em tempo real, em pacientes menores de 2 anos em hospital público e universitário. Métodos: estudo de coorte retrospectivo foi conduzido para analisar os desfechos clínicos de crianças hospitalizadas com doença respiratória viral com resultados positivos do teste rápido imunocromatográfico para VSR e/ou FluA, de 2013 a 2018. Um modelo de regressão logística foi ajustado para analisar preditores de intubação orotraqueal durante a internação. Resultados: foram analisados 220 casos: RSV (192), FluA (9) eco-detecção (19). A letalidade foi de 1,8% (2 casos) e 88% (194) casos em menores de 1 ano. O tempo médio de internação foi maior nos pacientes com codetecção. As variáveis significativamente associadas à intubação orotraqueal foram: menor idade em meses, comorbidades, codetecção de VSR e Flu-A e pneumonia bacteriana durante a internação. Conclusões: codetecção VSR e FluA foi associada a prognósticos clínicos desfavoráveis. O teste rápido fornece informações importantes a beira-leito, pois os painéis moleculares não são amplamente acessíveis em hospitais públicos. O diagnóstico rápido permite a avaliação e tratamento oportunos.

Caso clínico. Ultrasonografía pulmonar en paciente Covid-19 en hospital de baja complejidad / Lung ultrasound in covid-19 patient in a low complexity hospital: Case report

In the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it has become imperative to develop instruments for lung evaluation that are fast and efficient; in this sense, lung ultrasonography is presented as an effective instrument that can be extrapolated to low complexity centers that allow to guide management of Covid-19 patients.

En la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 que vivimos actualmente se ha hecho imperante desarrollar instrumentos para la evaluación pulmonar que sean rápidos y eficientes, en este sentido la ultrasonografía pulmonar se presenta como un instrumento eficaz extrapolable a centros de baja complejidad que permitan guiar manejo de pacientes Covid-19.

Pre-evaluation assessment of serological-based COVID-19 point-of-care lateral flow assays in Kenya

Background: Timely testing is a key determinant of management outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction tests are currently the mainstay for COVID-19 testing. However, serological point-of-care tests (PoCTs) can be useful in identifying asymptomatic and recovered cases, as well as herd immunity. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess COVID-19 PoCTs in Kenya to support the emergency use authorisation of these tests. Methods: Between March 2020 and May 2020, 18 firms, of which 13 were from China, submitted their PoCTs to the national regulatory authority, the Pharmacy and Poison Board, who in turn forwarded them to the Kenya Medical Research Institute for pre-evaluation assessment. The tests were run with real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction COVID-19-positive samples. Pre-COVID-19 plasma samples that were collected in June 2019were used as negative samples. The shelf lives of the PoCTs ranged from 6 to 24 months. Results: Only nine (50%) tests had sensitivities ≥ 40% (range: 40% ­ 60%) and the ability of these tests to detect IgM ranged from 0% to 50%. Many (7/18; 38.9%) of the kits had very weak IgM and IgG band intensities (range: 2­3). Conclusion: Serological-based PoCTs available in Kenya can only detect COVID-19 in up to 60% of the infected population.

Ultrassonografia Intervencionista para implantação e monitoramento de cateter venoso central de inserção periférica: scoping review / Ultrasonido intervencionista para implantación y monitorización de catéter venoso central insertado periféricamente: revisión del alcance / Interventional ultrasound for implantation and monitoring of peripherally inserted central venous catheter: scoping review

RESUMO Objetivo discutir as evidências disponíveis sobre uso de ultrassonografia na implantação/manutenção de cateter venoso central de inserção periférica no neonato crítico. Método scoping review, baseada nas recomendações de especialistas do Joanna Briggs Institute. Para identificar a questão de investigação foi seguida a versão PCC - Population, Concept and Context. As buscas foram realizadas entre janeiro e março de 2020, em três bases dados e no Google Scholar. Resultados das 354 publicações encontradas resultou uma amostra de 15 artigos, publicados em diversos países, entre 2016 e 2020, em inglês e português. A maioria evidenciava uso da ultrasound point of care (POCUS) para escolha do sítio venoso ou localização da ponta do cateter. Conclusão são necessários mais estudos, investigando a efetividade da POCUS na inserção/manutenção de cateter epicutâneo em neonatos críticos, para basear sua adoção como padrão ouro nesta clientela. O manejo por enfermeiros ainda é incipiente.

RESUMEN Objetivo discutir la evidencia disponible sobre el uso de el ultrasonido en la inserción y mantenimiento de catéteres venosos centrales de inserción periférica en neonatos críticos. Método esta revisión de alcance se basó en recomendaciones de expertos del Instituto Joanna Briggs. Se utilizó el enfoque de población, concepto y contexto (PCC) para identificar la pregunta de investigación. El estudio se realizó entre enero y marzo de 2020 en tres bases de datos y Google Scholar. Resultados en las 354 publicaciones encontradas se obtuvo una muestra de 15 artículos publicados en varios países entre 2016 y 2020, en inglés y portugués. La mayoría mostró que se usaba el punto de atención de ultrasonido (POCUS) para elegir el sitio venoso o ubicar la punta del catéter. Conclusión se necesitan más estudios para investigar la efectividad de POCUS en la inserción y mantenimiento de catéteres epicutáneos en neonatos críticos, para respaldar su adopción como el estándar de oro en esta clientela. El manejo por parte de enfermeras es aún incipiente.

ABSTRACT Objective to discuss the available evidence on the use of ultrasound in insertion and maintenance of peripherally inserted central venous catheters in critical neonates. Method this scoping review was based on recommendations by experts from the Joanna Briggs Institute. The population, concept and context (PCC) approach was used to identify the research question. The study was carried out between January and March 2020 in three databases and Google Scholar. Results a sample of 15 articles published in several countries between 2016 and 2020, in English and Portuguese, was obtained in the 354 publications found. Most showed ultrasound point of care (POCUS) being used to choose the venous site or locate the catheter tip. Conclusion further studies are needed to investigate the effectiveness of POCUS in insertion and maintenance of epicutaneous catheters in critical neonates, to support its adoption as the gold standard in this clientele. Handling by nurses is still incipient.

Papel de las pruebas rápidas (POCT) en el diagnóstico del SARS-COV-2, agente causal de COVID-19 / Role of Rapid Tests (POCT) in the Diagnosis of SARS-VOC-2, Causal Agent of COVID-19

Resumen El estándar de oro actual para la detección de SARS-CoV-2, agente causal de la pandemia de neumonía atípica (COVID-19) que apareció por primera vez en la ciudad de Wuhan (provincia de Hubei, China) en diciembre de 2019 (1), es la RT-qPCR. El protocolo estándar implica la transcripción inversa de ARN de SARS-CoV-2 en cadenas de ADN complementarias (ADNc), seguida de la amplificación de regiones específicas del ADNc. Este procedimiento demanda varias horas para ser completado y deriva en que la información final del estado de la infección pueda demorar hasta 24 horas. Ante la necesidad de disminuir el riesgo de una posible propagación viral dentro de la población originada por la rápida transmisión del SARS-CoV-2, se ha buscado prevenir el contagio, la propagación nosocomial y la transmisión comunitaria posterior, a través de la identificación rápida de casos sospechosos, y predecir las posteriores ondas infecciosas de recurrencia viral. Para esto, se vienen desarrollando métodos de laboratorio rápidos o point of care testing (POCT), que disminuyen el tiempo de diagnóstico y minimizan el riesgo de contagio por parte de los operadores.

Abstract The gold test to detect SARS-CoV-2, the etiologic agent that leads to the pandemic of atypical pneumonia (COVID 2019) that first appeared in Wuhan City, Hubei Province of China in December 2019 (1), is the RT-qPCR. The standard protocol involves reverse transcription of SARS-CoV-2 RNA into complementary DNA strands (cDNA), followed by the amplification of cDNA specific regions, a procedure that takes several hours to complete and which results in the final information from the infection status can take up to 24 hours. For this reason, and due to the need to reduce the risk of possible viral spread within the population caused by the fast transmission of SARS-CoV-2, in order to prevent nosocomial spread and subsequent community transmission through the quick identification of suspected cases, and to predict the further infectious waves of viral recurrence, rapid laboratory methods or Point of Care Testing (POCT) are being developed to reduce the diagnosis time and minimize the risk of contagion by the operators. These tests are discussed below.

Focused cardiac ultrasound in anesthetic practice: technique and indications / Ultrassom cardíaco focado na prática anestésica: técnica e indicações

Abstract The use of ultrasonography is well established in several anesthesia sub-specialties. Recently, there has been a major expansion of the POC (Point-Of-Care) ultrasound technique in intensive care, surgery, and emergency medicine, corroborating that USPOC in perioperative medicine has a much more comprehensive capability for both providing improved hemodynamic monitoring and early diagnosis of complications. The objective of the present article was to describe the use of a USPOC modality (focused cardiac US) that can be used for bedside assessment of unstable patients. Within a specific list of diagnoses, clinical treatment for a given situation can be tailored according to ultrasound findings, and by using binary and simple questions. Perioperative focused cardiac US use by the anesthesiologist has been related to lower rates of complications and mortality in high-risk patients.

Resumo O uso da ultrassonografia na prática anestésica já é bem estabelecido com a sua utilização em diversas subespecialidades. Recentemente, houve uma grande disseminação da técnica de ultrassonografia POC (point-of-care) nas áreas de medicina intensiva, cirurgia e medicina de urgência, confirmando que o seu uso em medicina perioperatória tem um potencial muito mais abrangente tanto para melhor monitorização hemodinâmica, como também para diagnóstico precoce de complicações. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever a utilização de uma modalidade de USPOC (ultrassom cardíaco focado) que pode ser utilizado à beira do leito com o objetivo de avaliar o paciente instável e, dentro de uma lista específica de diagnósticos, individualizar o tratamento clínico para determinada situação com base nos achados ultrassonográficos utilizando-se de questões de caráter binário e simples, sendo que o seu uso pelo anestesiologista no período perioperatório está relacionado a menores taxas de complicações e mortalidade em pacientes de alto risco.

Evaluation of bedside tests and proposal of a model for predicting difficult laryngoscopy: an observational prospective study / Avaliação de testes à beira leito e proposta de modelo para prever laringoscopia difícil: estudo prospectivo observacional

Abstract Background and objectives: The prediction of difficult laryngoscopy is based on tests that assess anatomic characteristics of face and neck. We aimed to identify the most accurate tests and propose a multivariate predictive model. Methods: This prospective observational study included 1134 patients. Thyromental Distance (TMD), Sternomental Distance (STMD), Ratio of Height-to-Thyromental Distance (R-H/TMD), Neck Circumference (NC), Ratio of Neck Circumference-to-Thyromental Distance (R-NC/TMD), Hyomental Distance with head in Neutral Position (HMD-NP) and at Maximal Extension (HMD-HE), Ratio of Hyomental Distance at Maximal head extension-to-hyomental distance in neutral position (R-HMD), Mallampati Class (MLC), Upper Lip Bite Test (ULBT), Mouth Opening (MO) and Head Extension (HE) were assessed preoperatively. A Cormack-Lehane Grade ≥ 3 was defined as Difficult Laryngoscopy. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were assessed for all tests. Multivariate analysis with logistic regression was used to create the predictive models. Results: A model incorporating MLC, ULBT, HE, HMD-HE and R-NC/TMD showed high prognostic accuracy; x2(5) = 109.12, p < 0.001, AUC = 0.86, p < 0.001). Its sensitivity, specificity and negative predictive value were 82.3%, 74.8% and 97.4%, respectively. A second model including two measurements not requiring patient's cooperation (R-NC/TMD and HMD-HE) exhibited good prognostic performance; x2(2) = 63.5, p < 0.001, AUC = 0.77, p < 0.001. Among single tests, HE had the highest sensitivity (78.5%) and negative predictive value (96%). Conclusions: A five-variable model incorporating MLC, ULBT, HE, HMD-HE and R-NC/TMD showed satisfyingly high predictive value for difficult laryngoscopy. A model including R-NC/TMD and HMD-HE could be useful in incapable patients. The most accurate single predictor was HE.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: A previsão de laringoscopia difícil se baseia em testes que avaliam as características anatômicas da face e pescoço. Nosso objetivo foi identificar os testes mais precisos e propor modelo preditivo multivariado. Método: Estudo observacional prospectivo incluiu 1134 pacientes e avaliou no pré-operatório: Distância Tireomentoniana (DTM), Distância Esternomentoniana (DEM), razão Altura-Distância Tireomentoniana (A/DTM), Circunferência Cervical (CC), razão Circunferência Cervical-Distância Tireomentoniana (CC/DTM), Distância Hiomentoniana com a cabeça na Posição Neutra (DHM-PN) e em Extensão Máxima (DHM-EM), razão Distância Hiomentoniana com Cabeça em Extensão Máxima/Distância Hiomentoniana na posição Neutra (DHME/DHMN), Classe Mallampati (CML), Teste da Mordida do Lábio Superior (TMLS), Abertura da Boca (AB) e Extensão da Cabeça (EC). Grau Cormack-Lehane ≥ 3 foi definido como Laringoscopia Difícil. A sensibilidade, especificidade, valores preditivos positivo e negativo foram avaliados para todos os testes. A análise multivariada com regressão logística foi usada para criar modelos preditivos. Resultados: Um modelo incorporando CML, TMLS, EC, DHM-EM e CC/DTM demonstrou alta precisão prognóstica (x2(5) = 109,12, p < 0,001, AUC = 0,86, p < 0,001). A sensibilidade, especificidade e valor preditivo negativo foram 82,3%, 74,8% e 97,4%, respectivamente. Um segundo modelo incluindo duas medidas que não necessitavam da cooperação do paciente (CC/DTM e DHM-EM) demonstrou bom desempenho prognóstico (x2 (2) = 63,5; p < 0,001; AUC = 0,77, p < 0,001). Entre os testes individuais, EC teve a maior sensibilidade (78,5%) e valor preditivo negativo (96%). Conclusões: O modelo de cinco variáveis incorporando CML, TMLS, EC, DHM-EM e CC/DTM mostrou valor preditivo satisfatoriamente alto para laringoscopia difícil. Um modelo que incluísse CC/DTM e DHM-EM poderia ser útil em pacientes com incapacidade. O preditor individual mais preciso foi EC.

Precisión diagnóstica de pruebas rápidas de detección de anticuerpos para SARS-CoV-2 / Diagnostic precision of rapid antibodies detection probes for SARS-CoV-2

ANTECEDENTES: Los coronavirus son una familia de virus causantes de enfermedades respiratorias, digestivas y del sistema nervioso en humanos y animales. En diciembre de 2019, se identificó en la provincia de Wuhan, China una cepa de coronavirus nunca antes encontrada en humanos, la cual recibió el nombre de SARS-CoV-2. La infección por SARS-CoV-2 se ha extendido a más de 100 países y fue declarada como pandemia por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. En nuestro país, se ha reportado 363 casos en trece regiones y un total de cinco fallecidos. La técnica molecular estándar para detectar SARSCoV-2 es la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa con transcriptasa inversa (RT-PCR). Sin embargo, se requieren incluir de modo complementario las pruebas rápidas que disminuyan el tiempo de espera entre la toma de muestras y la entrega de resultados, con la finalidad de descartar casos sospechosos, mejorar el pronóstico clínico y contener el contagio de la infección. El método basado en la detección de anticuerpos específicos como la IgG e IgM ha demostrado ser un método simple y de alta sensibilidad para realizar un diagnóstico rápido de varias enfermedades infecciosas. Sin embargo, se requiere examinar su precisión diagnóstica en el contexto de un virus nuevo como el SARS-CoV-2, con la finalidad de considerar la inclusión de este tipo de tecnología sanitaria en la intervención actual. OBJETIVO: Describir la evidencia científica disponible sobre la precisión diagnóstica de las pruebas rápidas de detección de anticuerpos para SARS-CoV-2. MÉTODO: Búsqueda sistemática en Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), LILACS y ClinicalTrials.gov. de estudios en idioma español o inglés publicados entre el 01 de diciembre de 2019 y el 21 de marzo de 2020, complementada con una búsqueda en Google Scholar y en la base de datos de dispositivos médicos de la Food and Drug Administration (FDA). RESULTADOS: Se seleccionaron 02 estudios desarrollados en China publicados en el año 2020 que compararon la precisión diagnóstica de pruebas rápidas para la detección de anticuerpos IgG e IgM contra el virus del SARS-CoV,-en comparación con RT-PCR como estándar de referencia. Principales hallazgos: Un estudio estimó valores de sensibilidad de 88,66% y de especificidad de 90,63% para la prueba de detección de anticuerpos combinados IGg/IgM para SARS-CoV-2, en comparación con RTPCR como estándar de referencia. La sensibilidad de detección de los anticuerpos combinados IGg/IgM fue mayor que la prueba individual de anticuerpos. En un subgrupo de siete pacientes se identificó una consistencia de 100% entre los resultados positivos y negativos de muestras obtenidas de punción digital, suero y plasma sanguíneo. El estudio restante estimó valores de sensibilidad de 87,3% y especificidad de 100% para la prueba de detección de anticuerpos combinados IGg/IgM para SARS-CoV-2, en comparación con RT-PCR como estándar de referencia. La sensibilidad de la prueba de anticuerpos combinados IGg/IgM fue mayor a la obtenida en pruebas individuales de IgG o IgM (82,5% y 44,4%, respectivamente). CONCLUSIONES: Comparado con RT-PCR, la prueba de detección de anticuerpos combinados IgG e IgM analizada en estos estudios, mostró buena sensibilidad (entre 87-88%) y especificidad (entre 90-100%) para el diagnóstico para SARS-CoV-2. Ambos estudios incluidos coinciden en observar una mayor precisión diagnóstica de la detección simultánea de IgG e IgM, respecto a la evaluación individual de anticuerpos. Un estudio determinó una consistencia de 100% entre los resultados positivos y negativos de muestras obtenidas mediante punción digital, suero y plasma sanguíneo. La utilidad del valor predictivo positivo y negativo calculado por los estudios (96-100% y 72-81%, respectivamente) es limitado, considerando que la prevalencia de la enfermedad en nuestro país es significativamente más baja a la reportada en los estudios (>60%) al encontrarnos en una fase inicial de la epidemia. Existen potenciales beneficios de la inclusión de este tipo de tecnología sanitaria en la intervención actual.(AU)

Novel educational adjuncts for the World Health Organization Basic Emergency Care Course: a prospective cohort study

Introduction: The World Health Organization's (WHO) Basic Emergency Care Course (BEC) is a five day, inperson course covering basic assessment and life-saving interventions. We developed two novel adjuncts for the WHO BEC: a suite of clinical cases (BEC-Cases) to simulate patient care and a mobile phone application (BECApp) for reference. The purpose was to determine whether the use of these educational adjuncts in a flipped classroom approach improves knowledge acquisition and retention among healthcare workers in a low-resource setting. Methods: We conducted a prospective, cohort study from October 2017 through February 2018 at two district hospitals in the Pwani Region of Tanzania. Descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact t-tests, and Wilcoxon ranked-sum tests were used to examine whether the use of these adjuncts resulted in improved learner knowledge. Participants were enrolled based on location into two arms; Arm 1 received the BEC course and Arm 2 received the BEC-Cases and BEC-App in addition to the BEC course. Both Arms were tested before and after the BEC course, as well as a 7-month follow-up exam. All participants were invited to focus groups on the course and adjuncts. Results: A total of 24 participants were included, 12 (50%) of whom were followed to completion. Mean pre-test scores in Arm 1 (50%) were similar to Arm 2 (53%) (p=0.52). Both arms had improved test scores after the BEC Course Arm 1 (74%) and Arm 2 (87%), (p=0.03). At 7-month follow-up, though with significant participant loss to follow up, Arm 1 had a mean follow-up exam score of 66%, and Arm 2, 74%. Discussion: Implementation of flipped classroom educational adjuncts for the WHO BEC course is feasible and may improve healthcare worker learning in low resource settings. Our focus- group feedback suggest that the course and adjuncts are user friendly and culturally appropriate

Prevalência e fatores de risco para disfagia orofaríngea em idosos frágeis com fraturas traumato-ortopédicas / Prevalence and risk factors for oropharyngeal dysphagia in fragile older adults with orthopedic fractures

RESUMO Objetivo Estimar a prevalência e fatores de risco para disfagia orofaríngea em indivíduos idosos hospitalizados por fraturas traumato-ortopédicas. Métodos Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos, incluindo comorbidades clínicas, autopercepção do desempenho de deglutição (Eating Assessment Tool) e identificação de risco nutricional (Mini Avaliação Nutricional). Para avaliar o sistema estomatognático e a deglutição, foram utilizados os protocolos Avaliação Miofuncional para Pessoas Idosas e o Volume Viscosity Swallow Test, compilados para composição do desfecho a partir da Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). Resultados O estudo evidenciou que 58% dos indivíduos apresentaram restrições de consistências alimentares devido à disfagia orofaríngea (FOIS ≤ 6). Observou-se, também, risco de diminuição funcional entre aqueles com idade maior ou igual a 70 anos, com piores condições dentárias, diminuição da funcionalidade global, doenças neurológicas associadas e com percepção de alterações na deglutição. Conclusão Houve prevalência de disfagia orofaríngea em seis a cada dez indivíduos, sendo a fragilidade, idade avançada, múltiplas doenças e condições orais deficitárias os fatores de risco para a alteração, fatores estes que devem ser identificados para a prevenção de aspiração alimentar.

ABSTRACT Purpose To estimate the prevalence of and risk factors for oropharyngeal dysphagia in older adults hospitalized for orthopedic trauma fractures. Methods Sociodemographic data, clinical comorbidities, auto-perception of swallowing performance (Eating Assessment Tool) and identification of nutritional risk (Mini Nutritional Assessment) were collected. In order to evaluate the stomatognathic system and swallowing, the Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation Protocol for older people and the Volume Viscosity Swallow Test protocols were used to assess the outcome through the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). Results 58% individuals presented dietary consistency restrictions due to oropharyngeal dysphagia (FOIS ≤ 6). A risk for functional decrease was observed among patients 70 years or older, with worse dental conditions, global functionality decreased, neurologic disorders and self-perception of swallowing changes. Conclusion The study observed a prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia in six out of ten individuals. Frailty, advanced age, multiple comorbidities and deficient oral conditions are risk factors that should be identified in order to prevent food aspiration.