Evaluación de resultados tras la aplicación de esteroides epidurales caudales no particulados en pacientes con dolor lumbar, experiencia en un hospital militar / Evaluation of results after the application of non-particulated flowring epidural steroids in patients with lumbar pain, experience in a military hospital

Introducción: El dolor lumbar es uno de los principales motivos de consulta en diferentes escenarios clínicos; entre las causas más frecuentes de dolor lumbar se encuentra el canal lumbar estrecho, discopatía y radiculopatías, por lo que se han establecido diferentes modalidades de tratamiento que incluyen medidas invasivas, como las inyecciones de esteroides epidurales vía caudal. Objetivo: Evaluar la mejoría del dolor lumbar después de la aplicación de esteroides epidurales caudales no particulados en la población con dolor crónico lumbar bajo secundario a canal lumbar estrecho, discopatía y radiculopatía lumbar de un hospital en Bogotá, Colombia. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo en el que se evaluó la reducción del dolor, en pacientes con diagnóstico de dolor lumbar crónico secundario a canal lumbar estrecho, radiculopatía, discopatía, mediante escala visualanáloga del dolor EVA seis meses después de la aplicación de dexametasona 8 mg vía epidural caudal en 147 pacientes en un período de 2 años. Resultados: Se evaluaron 147 pacientes con dolor lumbar crónico, de los cuales 58.32% eran mujeres y 47.76% hombres, con edades entre 44 y 77 años, de los cuales 50% eran mayores o igual a 65 años y 75% mayor o igual a 77 años. En la evaluación inicial del dolor lumbar, se encontró que el 50% de los pacientes tenían una EVA inicial mayor o igual a 8/10 y el 75% informó un EVA inicial 10/10. Se encontró que el canal lumbar estrecho fue la principal causa de dolor lumbar en el 53,06% de los pacientes, seguido de la enfermedad del disco lumbar el 49,66% y en el tercer lugar, los pacientes con radiculopatía lumbar correspondieron al 19.73% de la población. Sobre la mejoría del dolor de una manera particular, se encontró una mayor reducción del dolor en pacientes con enfermedad de disco lumbar 48,21%, seguido de estrecho canal lumbar estrecho 41,37% y radiculopatías lumbares 33,3%. En el análisis comparativo por patología aislada, la intervención no presentó una mejora considerable, sin embargo, cuando más de una de las entidades estudiadas coexistieron en el mismo paciente, hubo una mejoría significativa del dolor, por lo que en el 66,5% de los pacientes diagnosticados con un canal lumbar estrecho y radiculopatía, la mejoría de la lumbalgia y la radiculopatía disminuyó, de la misma forma que los pacientes que presentaron discopatía y radiculopatía tuvieron un alivio del dolor del 66% y, finalmente, aquellos con discopatía y canal lumbar estrecho, 60% tuvieron una reducción del dolor después del procedimiento. Conclusión: La aplicación de esteroides no particulados vía epidural caudal proporciona una mejora sintomática significativa en un porcentaje considerable de pacientes sometidos al procedimiento, especialmente en aquellos que tienen más de una de las causas de dolor lumbar crónico expuesta, por lo que se constituye en una medida invasiva de tratamiento efectivo para el dolor lumbar en este tipo de pacientes.

Introduction: Low back pain is one of the main reasons for consultation in different clinical scenarios; among the most frequent causes of low back pain is the narrow lumbar canal, discopathy and radiculopathies, which is why different modalities have been established of treatment including invasive measures such as injections of epidural steroids caudal via. Objective: To evaluate the improvement of lumbar pain after application of non-particulate caudal epidural steroid via in the population with chronic low lumbar pain in the narrow lumbar canal, discopathy and lumbar radiculopathy of a military hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. Methodology: A retrospective observational study was performed in which the pain reduction measured by visual analogous scale of pain VAS was evaluated six months after the application of dexamethasone 8 mg caudal epidural via in 147 patients in a period of 2 years Results: 147 patients with chronic low back pain were evaluated, of which 58.32% were women and 47.76% men, with ages between 44 and 77 years, of which 50% were greater than or equal to 65 years and 75 % greater than or equal to 77 years. Concerning the initial evaluation of lumbar pain, it was found that 50% of the patients had an initial VAS greater than or equal to 8/10 and 75% reported an initial VAS 10/10. Regarding the prevalence of causes of low back pain in the evaluated patients, it was found that the narrow lumbar canal was the main cause in 53.06% of the patients, followed by lumbar disc disease 49.66% and in the third place patients with lumbar radiculopathy corresponded 19.73% of the population. About pain improvement in a particular way, greater pain reduction was found in patients with lumbar disc disease 48.21%, followed by narrow lumbar canal 41.37% and lumbar radiculopathies 33.3%. In the comparative analysis due to isolated pathology, the intervention did not present a considerable improvement, however, when more than one of the entities studied coexisted in the same patient, there was a significant improvement in pain, thus 66.5% of the patients diagnosed with a canal. Narrow lumbar and radiculopathy improved, in the same way those patients who presented with discopathy and radiculopathy 66% had relief of pain and finally those with discopathy and narrow lumbar canal 60% had pain reduction after the procedure. Conclusion: The application of non-particulate steroid via caudal epidural provides significant symptomatic improvement in a considerable percentage of patients undergoing the procedure, especially in those who have more than one of the causes of chronic low back pain exposed and evaluated, thus being able to constitute an invasive measure of effective treatment for low back pain in this type of patients.

Schistosomal myeloradiculopathy in a non-endemic area / Mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica em região não endêmica

ABSTRACT Objective: To report a schistosomal myeloradiculopathy case in a non-endemic area. Case description: A previously healthy 11-year-old boy, stricken by an acute loss of strength on his lower limbs, followed by a loss of strength on his upper limbs and upper body, associated with altered sensitivity of the vesical globe formation. The patient's cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed eosinophilic meningitis, in addition to peripheral eosinophilia. The investigation resulted in a positive serology for Schistosoma mansoni. The treatment included steroids and praziquantel 60mg/kg, with a new dose after a month, as well as physical therapy for rehabilitation. The patient evolved with clinical improvement in the neurological exam, with a medullary section initially at C6, but now at T6. The patient is kept at prednisolone use (30mg/day) and longterm urinary catheter dependence. Comments: The schistosomiasis is endemic in many regions of Brazil; however, it has low incidence in the south of the country. Among its main manifestations, the schistosomal myeloradiculopathy is the most severe ectopic form of the disease, and should be suspected in patients with low back pain, strength and/or sensibility disorder of the lower limbs or urinary tract's disturbance. Early diagnosis and treatment should be done in order to reduce severe neurological sequelae. Treatment includes schistosomiasis drugs, corticosteroids and/or surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar um caso de mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica em área não endêmica. Descrição do caso: Paciente do sexo masculino, 11 anos, previamente hígido, com história aguda de paresia de membros inferiores, que evoluiu para membros superiores e tronco, associada à alteração de sensibilidade e formação de globo vesical. O exame do líquor demonstrava meningite eosinofílica, além de eosinofilia periférica. A investigação resultou em sorologia positiva para Schistosoma mansoni. O tratamento foi realizado com corticoterapia e praziquantel 60 mg/kg, com nova dose após um mês, além de fisioterapia para reabilitação. Evoluiu com melhora clínica no exame neurológico, com nível de secção medular que inicialmente correspondia a C6, encontrando-se atualmente em T6. Mantém uso de prednisolona 30 mg/dia e dependência de sonda vesical de demora. Comentários: A esquistossomose é uma doença endêmica em muitas regiões do Brasil, porém com pouca incidência no Sul do país. Dentre as principais manifestações, a mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica é a forma ectópica mais grave e deve ser suspeitada na vigência de dor lombar, alteração de força e/ ou sensibilidade de membros inferiores e distúrbio urinário. O diagnóstico e o tratamento devem ser instituídos precocemente para diminuir o risco de sequelas neurológicas graves. O tratamento pode ser realizado com esquistossomicidas, corticosteroides e/ ou cirurgia.

A comparison of single-dose and multiple divided daily-dose oral steroids for sudden sensorineural hearing loss / Comparação entre dose única e múltiplas doses diárias de corticoides para perda auditiva neurossensorial súbita

Abstract Introduction: Glucocorticoids are considered the first-line therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss. But there is currently no consensus on administering them as a single dose versus multiple divided daily doses. Objective: We aim to evaluate the treatment outcome of sudden sensorineural hearing loss between a single-dose and multiple divided daily doses of steroid treatment. Methods: A total of 94 patients who were diagnosed and treated for sudden sensorineural hearing loss and followed up for more than three months were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were divided into single-dose and multiple divided-dose groups, based on their medication regimens. Hearing thresholds were repeatedly measured: on the initial visit and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after the initial treatment. Treatment outcomes were analyzed by comparing hearing recovery rates and post-treatment audiometric changes. Results: The hearing threshold was significantly reduced at three months post-treatment in both groups. The hearing recovery rate of the single-dose group was significantly higher than that of the multiple divided-dose groups. Audiometric changes showed no statistical difference either in pure tone threshold or speech discrimination. Conclusion: When oral steroids are indicated for sudden sensorineural hearing loss, both a single dose and multiple divided doses can be effective for treatment and have comparable results. However, the single-dose regimen seems to be more efficacious than the divided-dose regimen.

Resumo Introdução: Os glicocorticoides são considerados terapia de primeira linha para perda auditiva neurossensorial súbita. Contudo, atualmente não há consenso em como para administrá-los, se em dose única ou múltiplas doses diárias. Objetivo: Nosso objetivo é avaliar o resultado do tratamento da perda auditiva neurossensorial súbita com uma dose única ou várias doses diárias de tratamento com esteróides. Método: Um total de 94 pacientes que foram diagnosticados e tratados para perda auditiva neurossensorial súbita e acompanhados por mais de três meses pós-tratamento foram avalia-dos retrospectivamente. Os pacientes foram divididos em grupos de dose única diária e dose diária dividida em múltiplas tomadas, baseado em seu regime medicamentoso. Os limiares auditivos foram medidos repetidamente: na visita inicial e em 1 semana, 1 mês e 3 meses após o tratamento inicial. Os resultados do tratamento foram analisados comparando-se as taxas de recuperação da audição e as alterações audiométricas pós-tratamento. Resultados: O limiar auditivo foi significativamente reduzido aos três meses pós-tratamento em ambos os grupos. A taxa de recuperação auditiva no grupo de dose única foi significativamente maior do que no grupo de dose diária dividida em múltiplas tomadas. As alterações audiométricas não mostraram diferença estatística, tanto no limiar de tom puro quanto na discriminação da fala. Conclusão: Quando esteroides orais são indicados para perda auditiva neurossensorial súbita, tanto uma dose única quanto múltiplas doses podem ser eficazes para o tratamento e têm resultados comparáveis. No entanto, o regime de dose única diária parece ser mais eficaz do que o regime de dose diária dividida em múltiplas tomadas.

Steroid vs. antibiotic impregnated absorbable nasal packing for wound healing after endoscopic sinus surgery: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study / Tampão nasal absorvível embebido em esteroides versus antibióticos para cicatrização de feridas após cirurgia endoscópica nasossinusal: estudo randomizado, duplo cego, placebo controlado

Abstract Introduction: Endoscopic sinus surgery can lead to crusting or synechiae formation, which can affect the healing process. Objective: The aim of our study was to compare the influence of steroid versus antibiotic versus saline solution impregnated absorbable nasal spacers on postoperative wound healing and patient satisfaction. Methods: Eighty patients, 33 women and 47 men, were enrolled in this study. At the end of the surgery, two pieces of 4 cm biodegradable material were applied in each ethmoid cavity. One of them was impregnated with saline solution, while the second one with steroid, or with antibiotic. Results: We observed statistically significant differences in the Lund-Kennedy score between the control and both treatment groups: for the Antibiotic-group on days 10 and 30 (p = 0.009; p = 0.009) and for the Steroid-group on day 90 (p = 0.008). The extended endoscopic appearance of nasal mucosa indicated statistically significant differences in crust formation on day 10 comparing the steroid and control dressing (p = 0.025), in secretion type on days 10 and 30 comparing the antibiotic and control dressing (p = 0.003; p = 0.016) and additionally for steroid and control on day 90 (p = 0.046). On Day 90 we observed statistically significant differences in the absence of mucosal edema in the S-group compared to controls (p = 0.007). Conclusions: The results of this study reveal the significant positive influence of steroid- and antibiotic-impregnated biodegradable nasal packing on the postoperative healing process and patient satisfaction compared to the saline soaked dressing.

Resumo Introdução: A cirurgia endoscópica nasossinusal pode levar à formação de crostas e sinéquias, o que pode afetar o processo de cicatrização. Objetivo: O objetivo do nosso estudo foi comparar a influência do espaçador nasal absorvível embebido em esteroide versus antibiótico versus solução salina na cicatrização de ferida pós-operatória e na satisfação do paciente. Método: Oitenta pacientes, 33 mulheres e 47 homens, foram incluídos neste estudo. Ao final da cirurgia, dois tampões de material biodegradável de 4 cm foram aplicados em cada cavidade etmoidal. Um deles foi embebido em solução salina, enquanto no segundo foi utilizado esteroide, ou antibiótico. Resultados: Observamos diferenças estatisticamente significantes no escore de Lund-Kennedy entre os grupos controle e ambos os grupos tratamentos: para o grupo antibiótico nos dias 10 e 30 (p = 0,009; p = 0,009) e para o grupo esteroide no dia 90 (p = 0,008). O aspecto endoscópico da mucosa nasal indicou diferenças estatisticamente significantes na formação de crostas no dia 10, na comparação do esteroide com o curativo controle (p = 0,025), no tipo de secreção nos dias 10 e 30, na comparação do antibiótico com o curativo controle (p = 0,003; p = 0,016) e adicionalmente para esteroide e controle no dia 90 (p = 0,046). No dia 90, observamos diferenças estatisticamente significantes na ausência de edema da mucosa no grupo E (esteroide) em relação aos controles (p = 0,007). Conclusões: Os resultados deste estudo revelam uma influência positiva significante no uso de tampão nasal biodegradável embebido em esteroides e antibióticos no processo de cicatrização pós-operatória e satisfação do paciente em comparação com o curativo embebido em solução salina.

Hearing Outcome of Low-tone Compared to High-tone Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Abstract Introduction Low-tone sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a well-recognized disease, in which the hearing loss is restricted to low frequencies. In contrast to lowtone SSHL, high-tone SSHL is characterized by high-frequency (4,000, 8,000 Hz) hearing loss and preservation of low-, middle-frequency hearing. Objective The objective of this study is to compare the hearing recovery and longterm outcome of low-tone SSHL with those of patients affected by high-tone SSHL in a follow-up of ~ 3 years. Methods The low-tone SSHL and high-tone SSHL groups included 27 and 20 patients, respectively; the patients of both groups were treated with intravenous steroids. Predictive factors (gender, affected side, delay of treatment, follow-up time) were also examined. Results Overall, complete hearing recovery was observed in 77.7% of the patients in the low-tone SSHL group and in 15% of the patients in the high-tone SSHL group. In the high-tone SSHL group, a higher proportion of patients reported tinnitus compared with the low-tone SSHL group (13 cases [65%] versus 3 cases [11%]); however, recurrences were more common in the low-tone SSHL (22%, 6 patients) compared with the hightone SSHL (2 cases [10%]) group. No predictive factor was found to statistically impact on hearing outcome. Conclusion After initial therapy, the low-tone SSHL patients have more favorable hearing outcome than high-tone SSHL patients. However, recurrences occurred more frequently in the low-tone SSHL group, while the high-tone SSHL group was more often accompanied by residual symptoms, such as tinnitus. (AU)

Histiocitosis de células de Langerhans con compromiso vertebral / Langerhans cell histiocytosis with vertebral involvement

Resumen: Introducción: La histiocitosis de células de Langerhans (HCL) es un trastorno histiocítico raro y su incidencia exacta se mantiene desconocida; se ha diagnosticado en todos los grupos de edad, pero es más común en los primeros 3 años de vida. Se caracteriza por lesiones únicas o múltiples de tipo osteolítico causadas por proliferación clonal de células histológicamente similares a las células de Langerhans; su presentación clínica es heterogénea. Caso clínico: Presentamos el caso de una paciente de sexo femenino de 7 años, con dificultad para la marcha y debilidad progresiva en los miembros inferiores de 5 días de evolución. A la exploración física presenta hallazgos concordantes con síndrome piramidal e hipoes­ tesias de miembros inferiores. Se realizó resonancia magnética (RM) de columna y tomografía computarizada de cráneo simple, que descartó patología intracraneal . En la RM de columna se detectó vertebra plana con extensión epidural y para­ vertebral, por lo que se inició manejo con esteroides y se indicó descompresión quirúrgica. Se realizó resección parcial y biopsia de la lesión. Debido a los hallazgos histológicos y la presencia de marcadores positivos para CD1a y CD207, se confirmó el diagnóstico de HCL. Conclusiones: La HCL es una enfermedad poco frecuente y de difícil diagnóstico por su presentación heterogénea. El granuloma eosinofílico y la vértebra plana como hallazgos imagenológicos pueden orientar el diagnóstico, aunque siempre se debe confirmar histológicamente.

Abstract: Background: Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease, more common in the first three years of lite. lt is characterized by single ar multiple osteolytic lesions due to clonal proliferation of cells histologically similar to Langerhans cells; its clínical presentation is heterogeneous. Case report: 7-year-old female patient with 5 days of progressive lower extremity weakness and difficulty to walk. Physical exam findings were consistent with pyramidal syndrome and lower extremities hypoesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of spine and cranial computed tomography (CT) were performed. lntracranial pathology was ruled out. The MRI findings showed vertebra plana with epidural and paravertebral involvement, so treatment with steroids and surgical decompression initiated. Partíal resection and biopsy of the lesion was performed. Due to histological findings and positive CD1a and CD207 markers, diagnosis of LCH was confirmed. Conclusions: LCH is an uncommon disease with a challenging diagnosis due to its heterogeneous clinical presentation. Eosinophilic granuloma and vertebra plana as imaging findings may guide the diagnosis. However, it should always be confirmed with histological evidence.

Prescripción de los inhibidores de la bomba de protones en pacientes hospitalizados / Prescription of proton pump inhibitors in hospitalized patient

Desde el comienzo del uso de los inhibidores de la bomba de protones (IBP), la indicación de los mismos ha crecido exponencialmente. Aquí documentamos la prescripción exagerada en pacientes hospitalizados. Métodos: estudio observacional descriptivo para determinar la frecuencia del uso inadecuado de estos fármacos en servicios médicos y quirúrgicos del Hospital Universitario de Caracas. Resultados: Se evaluaron 500 pacientes hospitalizados. Se prescribió IBP en 367 (73,4%) ellos, pero sólo 47 (12,8%) tenían una indicación formal. El 87% no tenía indicación justificada según normas de los entes reguladores a nivel mundial. La prevención de úlcera péptica inducida por AINES en pacientes de riesgo correspondió a la principal indicación de IBP; sin embargo, la dosis prescrita en el 82% de los pacientes no era la correcta. Conclusión: hay una alta prevalencia de prescripción de IBP, acompañada de alta frecuencia de prescripción inadecuada. Se debe educar a consumidores y prescriptores que, al igual que todos los fármacos, también los IBP tienen efectos adversos e interacciones medicamentosas, por lo que sólo se deberían usar cuando sea estrictamente necesario, con una indicación clara, a la menor dosis y durante el menor tiempo posible(AU)

Since the introduction of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), the indication of these has grown exponentially, evidencing a high prevalence of overprescription in hospitalized patients Method: a descriptive and observational study was carried out in order to determine the frequency of inappropriate use of these drugs in medical and surgical services of the Hospital Universitario de Caracas, Venezuela. Results: 500 hospitalized patients admitted to medical and surgical services were evaluated. The PPI was prescribed in 367 (73.4%) of them and only 47 (12.8%) had a formal indication for it, while 87% were not indicated, according to regulators worldwide. The prevention of peptic ulcer induced by non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs in patients at risk was the major indication; however, the prescribed dose in 82% of patients was incorrect. Conclusion: there is a high prevalence of prescribing proton pump inhibitors, evidencing a high frequency of inadequate prescription. Consumers and prescribers should be made aware that, as all drugs, also PPIs have adverse effects, drug interactions, and should be used only when strictly necessary at the lowest dose and for the shortest time possible.(AU)

The place of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and ozone therapy in sudden hearing loss / O papel da oxigenoterapia hiperbárica e da ozonioterapia na surdez súbita

Abstract Introduction: It is difficult to evaluate the effect of drugs clinically used for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss, mainly because its underlying mechanism remains unknown. Objective: This study assessed the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy or ozone therapy in the treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss, when either therapy was included with steroid treatment. Methods: A retrospective analysis examined 106 patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss seen between January 2010 and June 2012. Those with an identified etiology were excluded. The patients were divided into three treatment groups: oral steroid only (n = 65), oral steroid + hyperbaric oxygen (n = 26), and oral steroid + ozone (n = 17). Treatment success was assessed using Siegel criteria and mean gains using pre- and post-treatment audiograms. Results: The highest response rate to treatment was observed in the oral steroid + ozone therapy group (82.4%), followed by the oral steroid + hyperbaric oxygen (61.5%), and oral steroid groups (50.8%). There were no significant differences in the response to treatment between the oral steroid and oral steroid + hyperbaric oxygen groups (p < 0.355). The oral steroid + ozone group showed a significantly higher response rate to treatment than the oral steroid group (p = 0.019). There were no significant differences between the oral steroid + hyperbaric oxygen and oral steroid + ozone groups (p = 0.146). Conclusion: The efficiency of steroid treatment in patients with severe hearing loss was low. It was statistically ascertained that adding hyperbaric oxygen or ozone therapy to the treatment contributed significantly to treatment success.

Resumo Introdução: É difícil avaliar o efeito dos fármacos clinicamente usados na surdez súbita idiopática, principalmente porque o seu mecanismo subjacente se mantém desconhecido. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da oxigenoterapia hiperbárica ou ozonioterapia no tratamento de surdez súbita, quando uma ou outra terapia é incluída no tratamento com esteroides. Método: Uma análise retrospectiva examinou 106 pacientes com surdez súbita atendidos entre janeiro de 2010 e junho de 2012. Aqueles com uma etiologia identificada foram excluídos. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos de tratamento: apenas esteroide oral (n = 65), esteroide por via oral + oxigenoterapia hiperbárica (n = 26) e esteroides por via oral + ozônio (n = 17). O sucesso do tratamento foi avaliado com critérios de Siegel e os ganhos médios com audiogramas pré e pós-tratamento. Resultados: A taxa de resposta mais elevada para o tratamento foi observada no grupo de esteroide + ozonioterapia (82,4%), seguida por grupos de esteroide oral + oxigenoterapia hiperbárica (61,5%) e esteroide oral (50,8%). Não houve diferenças significantes na resposta ao tratamento entre os grupos de esteroide oral e esteroides + oxigenoterapia hiperbárica (p < 0,355). O grupo de esteroide oral + ozônio apresentou uma taxa de resposta significantemente mais elevada ao tratamento do que o grupo de esteroide oral (p = 0,019). Não houve diferenças significantes entre os grupos de esteroide oral + oxigenoterapia hiperbárica e esteroide oral + ozônio (p = 0,146). Conclusão: A eficiência do tratamento com esteroides em pacientes com perda auditiva grave foi baixa. Verificou-se estatisticamente que a adição de oxigenoterapia hiperbárica ou ozonioterapia ao tratamento contribuiu significantemente para o sucesso do tratamento.

Oral versus intravenous steroid therapy for relapses in patients with multiple sclerosis: an updated meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials / Terapia oral versus intravenosa para recaídas de pacientes com esclerose múltipla: uma metanálise atualizada de seis ensaios clínicos randomizados

PURPOSE: To systematically evaluate whether oral steroids can be used with the same efficacy and safety in comparison with the intravenous regimen for treatment of multiple sclerosis relapses. METHOD: We searched Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library and systematically reviewed articles comparing outcomes of oral versus intravenous steroids for acute relapses in patients with a clinically definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. RESULTS: Six articles with 414 participants in total were analyzed. Five of the included trials reported the proportion of patients experiencing improvement in Expanded Disability Status Scale after receiving either oral or intravenous methylprednisolone treatment at four weeks; the pooled results showed that there was no statistically significant difference (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.60, 1.54; p=0.86) between treatments. Three trials reported the detailed results of adverse events, indicating the two treatments appear to be equally safe. Two trials revealed that there was no significant difference in gadolinium enhancement activity on magnetic resonance imaging. One trial showed that the mean area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) at 24 and 48 hours did not differ between groups. CONCLUSION: No significant differences were found in terms of clinical (benefits and adverse events), radiological and pharmacological outcomes in multiple sclerosis relapses in patients after oral or intravenous steroids treatment. Our meta-analysis provides evidence that oral steroid therapy is not inferior to intravenous steroid therapy. Thus oral administration may be a favorable substitute for intravenous medication of multiple sclerosis relapses.

PROPÓSITO: Avaliar de forma sistemática se esteroides orais podem ser utilizados com a mesma eficácia e segurança em comparação com o regime intravenoso para o tratamento de recaídas da esclerose múltipla (MS). MÉTODO: Foram pesquisados Medline, Embase e Cochrane Library e sistematicamente revistos artigos comparando resultados de esteroides orais versus intravenosos para recaídas agudas em pacientes com diagnóstico de esclerose múltipla clinicamente definida. RESULTADOS: Seis artigos com 414 participantes no total foram analisados. Cinco dos estudos incluídos relataram a proporção de doentes com melhoria através de "Expanded Disability Status Scale" depois de receber um ou outro tratamento: metilprednisolona oral ou intravenosa por quatro semanas. Os resultados combinados mostraram que não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa (OR 0,96; 95% 101 0,60, 1,54 ; p = 0,86). Três estudos mostraram os resultados detalhados de eventos adversos, indicando que os dois tratamentos parecem ser igualmente seguros. Dois ensaios revelaram que não havia nenhuma diferença significativa no aumento de atividade de gadolínio via imagens por ressonância magnética. Um estudo mostrou que a área média sob as curvas de concentração-tempo (AUC) às 24 horas e 48 horas não diferiram entre os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas em termos de clínicos (benefícios e eventos adversos) ou nos resultados radiológicos e farmacológicos em pacientes pós-esteroides por via oral ou intravenosa no tratamento de várias recaídas de esclerose. Nossa metanálise fornece evidências de que a terapia com esteroides por via oral não é inferior à terapia com esteroides por via intravenosa. Assim, a administração oral pode ser um substituto favorável para medicação intravenosa de recidivas da esclerose múltipla.

Growth pattern in children with systemic lupus erythematosus

Objectives: Children with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus [cSLE] enter adulthood with considerable morbidity. Of the recognized morbidities, growth failure is unique to cSLE. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth pattern in children with cSLE longitudinally and identify possible risk factors

Methods: Serial anthropometric measurements of cSLE patients were obtained over two years and expressed as z-scores. Parental heights were obtained to calculate target height. Parent-adjusted height z-score was calculated as the difference between height z-score and target height. Growth failure was defined as parent-adjusted height z-score < -1.50. Risk factors that might have contributed to growth failure were evaluated including the presence of growth failure at baseline, disease activity, disease duration, and cumulative steroid doses

Results: Twenty-five patients were included in the study. Growth failure was observed in eight patients with an overall incidence of 32.0% [95% confidence interval [CI]: 14-50%]

When comparing the cohort with and without growth failure, the factors that determined growth failure was the pre-existence of growth failure at the time of diagnosis [z-score < -1.95 vs. 0.35; p < 0.001]; higher cumulative steroid dose [15.8 vs. 9.1 g //p - 0.061]; and tendency for longer disease duration [5.4 vs. 3.7 years;/? = 0.240]. However, the severity of disease activity at the time of diagnosis was not a significant contributing factor [12 vs. 14; p = 0.529]

Conclusions: Children with cSLE are at risk of having a negative effect on height including patients with pre-existing growth failure, high cumulative steroid dose, and longer disease duration. However, longitudinal prospective studies are needed to examine damage over time to improve health-related quality of life

Generalized pustular psoriasis induced by systemic steroid dose reduction

Abstract: Generalized pustular psoriasis, or psoriasis of von Zumbusch, is an acute and severe clinical form of psoriasis, which usually occurs in patients with psoriasis undergoing aggravating factors. In this work, we report the case of a female patient, 70 years old, who developed generalized pustular psoriasis symptoms while reducing the dose of oral corticosteroids, improperly introduced for the treatment of alleged acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. The differential diagnosis of generalized pustular psoriasis should be made with other pustular dermatoses, such as subcorneal pustulosis, IgA pemphigus and especially with acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. Personal history of psoriasis and histopathological findings with psoriasiform changes and subcorneal pustule favored the diagnosis. She was treated with acitretin 30 mg / day, progressing to complete regression of the lesions.

Sexualidad y climaterio: una mirada integral / Sexuality and climacteric: a comprehensive approach

Cuando hablamos de sexualidad humana debemos saber que estamos hablando de una compleja y cambiante interacción de factores biológicos y socioemocionales altamente influenciables por la familia, la religión y los patrones culturales. Esto se ve en los hombres y en las mujeres, especialmente en las mujeres. La sexualidad es un concepto intuitivo que cuesta definir. Según la Organización Mundial de la Salud, se define salud sexual como "un estado de bienestar físico, emocional, mental y social relacionado con la sexualidad, la cual no es solamente la ausencia de enfermedad, disfunción o incapacidad". Es una definición que tiene en cuenta varios conceptos, muy importantes todos ellos. La respuesta sexual consiste en una serie de cambios neurofisiológicos, hemodinámicos y hormonales que involucran al conjunto del organismo. Si bien es similar en ambos sexos, en las mujeres no siempre el inicio y la progresión se correlacionan en forma sistemática o lineal como en los hombres. Y de ese intrigante devenir de la respuesta sexual femenina surge la dificultad del diagnóstico de la "disfunción sexual femenina". Podríamos resumirla en "un conjunto de trastornos en los que los problemas fisiológicos o psicológicos dificultan la participación o la satisfacción en las actividades sexuales; lo cual se traduce en la incapacidad de una persona para participar en una relación sexual de la forma que le gustaría hacerlo"16. La menopausia es percibida por muchas mujeres como el fin de la sexualidad, y no solo como el fin de la vida reproductiva. Si bien es cierto que en esta etapa la actividad sexual suele declinar y puede verse afectada por una serie de factores hormonales, psicológicos y socioculturales, para la mayoría de las mujeres la sexualidad sigue siendo importante. Debemos comprender que la disfunción sexual femenina, en cualquier etapa de la vida, es multicausal y multidimensional. A la hora de realizar el abordaje de una paciente, debemos tener en cuenta todos los factores involucrados y saber con qué herramientas contamos. El abordaje terapéutico clásicamente incluye la terapia psicológica y la terapia hormonal. Sin embargo, recientemente se ha incorporado una nueva droga recientemente aprobada por la FDA de los Estados Unidos para el tratamiento del deseo sexual hipoactivo en la mujer: el flibanserín, un psicofármaco que actúa a nivel de mediadores del deseo sexual en el sistema nervioso central, favoreciéndolo. (AU)

When we talk about human sexuality, we know that we are talking about a complex and changing interaction between biological and socioemotional factors, which are highly influenced by society, family, religion and cultural norms. This can be seen in men and women especially in women. Sexuality is an intuitive concept difficult to define. According to the World Health Organization, it is defined as "A state of physical, emotional, mental and social well being related to sexuality, which is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or disabilityˮ. It is a definition that takes into account several concepts, all very important. Sexual response is a series of neurophysiological, hemodynamic and hormonal changes involving the whole body. While similar in both sexes, women are not always the onset and progression correlate systematically or linearly as in men. And that intriguing evolution of the female sexual response, the difficulty of diagnosis of "female sexual dysfunctionˮ. We could summarize it in "a group of disorders in which the physiological or psychological problems impede participation or satisfaction in sexual activities; which results in the inability of a person to participate in a sexual relationship the way she or he would like to do itˮ16. Menopause is perceived by many women as to the end of sexuality, not only as the end of reproductive life. Sexual activity declines with age, and may be affected by a number of hormonal, psychological and sociocultural factors, but, for most women it continues to be important. We must understand that female sexual dysfunction, at any stage of life is multicausal and multidimensional. When approaching a patient, it is important to know all the factors that are involved, and which tools we have for deal with it. Classically, the therapeutic approach has consisted of psychological therapy and hormone therapy. However, we have to consider a recently approved drug by the FDA for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire in women: Flibanserin. It is a psychotropic substance that acts on the mediators of sexual desire on the central nervous system favoring it. (AU)

Morphometric study of the corpus cavernosum after anabolic androgenic steroid administration in pubertal and adult rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the penile morphological modifications of pubertal and adult rats chronically treated with supra-physiological doses of anabolic androgenic steroids. METHODS: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were distributed into four groups: two control groups, 105- and 65-day-old (C105 and C65, respectively) injected with peanut oil (vehicle); and two treated groups, 105- and 65-day-old (T105 and T65, respectively) injected with nandrolone decanoate at a dose of 10 mg Kg-1 of body weight. The rats were injected once a week for eight weeks. The rats were then killed and their penises were processed for histomorphometric analyses. The mean of each parameter was statistically compared. RESULTS: A corpus cavernosum reduction of 12.5% and 10.9% was observed in the T105 and T65 groups, respectively, when compared with their respective control groups. The cavernosum smooth muscle surface density diminished by 5.6% and 12.9% in the T65 and T105 groups, respectively, when compared with their controls. In contrast, the sinusoidal space increased by 17% in the T105 group and decreased by 9.6% in the T65 group. CONCLUSION: The use of supra-physiological doses of AAS promotes structural changes in the rat penis, by altering the proportions of corpus cavernosum tissues, in both pubertal and adult treated animals. .

Adult Onset Stills Disease: A Case Report.

Adult onset still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology. Because of lack of a defined diagnostic test the diagnosis of AOSD can only be made after excluding infectious, malignant, and autoimmune diseases. A 21-year-old female patient was admitted in our hospital with intermittent high-grade fever, polyarthritis and rash. On further history, examination and laboratory investigation she was found to be fulfilling all the Yamaguchi criteria for AOSD. All other causes consisting of acute or chronic infections, hematological malignancies, and other rheumatic disorders were excluded by laboratory investigations. Patient was treated as AOSD with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids and is completely free of symptoms.

Anti-inflammatory components of the Vietnamese starfish Protoreaster nodosus

BACKGROUND: In the present study, we examined the inhibitory effects of a methanolic extract, dichloromethane fraction, water layer, and polyhydroxylated sterols (1-4) isolated from the Vietnamese starfish Protoreaster nodosus on pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-12 p40, IL-6, and TNF-α) production in LPS-stimulated bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). RESULTS: The methanolic extract and dichloromethane fraction exerted potent inhibitory effects on the production of all three pro-inflammatory cytokines, with IC50 values ranging from 0.60 ± 0.01 to 26.19 ± 0.64 µg/mL. Four highly pure steroid derivatives (1-4) were isolated from the dichloromethane fraction and water layer of P. nodosus. Potent inhibitory activities were also observed for (25S)5α-cholestane-3ß,4ß,6α,7α,8ß,15α,16ß,26-octol (3) on the production of IL-12 p40 and IL-6 (IC50s = 3.11 ± 0.08 and 1.35 ± 0.03 µM), and for (25S) 5α-cholestane-3ß,6α,8ß,15α,16ß,26-hexol (1) and (25S)5α-cholestane-3ß,6α,7α,8ß,15α,16ß,26-heptol (2) on the production of IL-12 p40 (IC50s = 0.01 ± 0.00 and and 1.02 ± 0.01 µM). Moreover, nodososide (4) exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on IL-12 p40 and IL-6 production. CONCLUSION: This is the first report of the anti-inflammatory activity from the starfish P. nodosus. The main finding of this study is the identification oxygenated steroid derivatives from P. nodosus with potent anti-inflammatory activities that may be developed as therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases.

Strongyloidiasis in a Diabetic Patient Accompanied by Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: Cause of Eosinophilia Unresponsive to Steroid Therapy

We report here a case of strongyloidiasis in a 72-year-old diabetic patient (woman) accompanied by gastrointestinal stromal tumor receiving imatinib therapy, first diagnosed as hypereosinophilic syndrome and treated with steroids for uncontrolled eosinophilia. She suffered from lower back pain and intermittent abdominal discomfort with nausea and diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumor. After post-operative imatinib treatment eosinophilia persisted, so that steroid therapy was started under an impression of hypereosinophilic syndrome. In spite of 6 months steroid therapy, eosinophilia persisted. Stool examination was performed to rule out intestinal helminth infections. Rhabditoid larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis were detected and the patient was diagnosed as strongyloidiasis. This diagnosis was confirmed again by PCR. The patient was treated with albendazole for 14 days and her abdominal pain and diarrhea improved. This case highlights the need for thorough investigation, including molecular approaches, to test for strongyloidiasis before and during steroid therapies.

Homonymous hemianopia in a patient with Behcet's disease

No abstract available.

Evaluación de efectividad y seguridad de everolimus más ciclosporina y esteroides o everolimus más tacrolimus y esteroide comparado con ciclosporina más micofenolato y esteroides, tacrolimus más micofenolato y esteroides, sirolimus con micofenolato y esteroides, en pacientes receptores de trasplante de riñón, hígado y corazón / Efficacy and safety assessment of everolimus plus ciclosporin and steroids or everolimus plus tacrolimus and steroid compared to cyclosporine plus mycophenolate and steroids, tacrolimus plus mycophenolate and steroids, sirolimus with mycophenolate

Introducción: Everolimus es un medicamento perteneciente a un grupo de inmunosupresores selectivos que inhiben la vía del m- TOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) y es empleado para evitar el rechazo de trasplante de órganos sólidos. Esta evaluación tecnológica se desarrolló en el marco de la actualización integral del Plan Obligatorio de Salud para el año 2015. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad y seguridad del uso de everolimus más ciclosporina y esteroides o everolimus más tacrolimus y esteroide comparado con ciclosporina más micofenolato y esteroides, tacrolimus más micofenolato y esteroides, sirolimus con micofenolato y esteroides, en pacientes receptores de trasplante de riñón, hígado y corazón. Metodología: La evaluación fue realizada de acuerdo con un protocolo definido a priori por el grupo desarrollador. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects y LILACS, con restricción al idioma inglés y español y limitada a revisiones sistemáticas publicadas en los últimos cinco años y ensayos clínicos sin restricción de tiempo. Las búsquedas electrónicas fueron hechas entre octubre y diciembre de 2014 y se complementaron mediante búsqueda manual en bola de nieve y una consulta con expertos temáticos. La tamización de referencias se realizó por un revisor. La selección de estudios fue realizada mediante la revisión en texto completo de las referencias preseleccionadas, verificando los criterios de elegibilidad. La calidad de los estudios fue valorada con la herramienta de riesgo de sesgo de la Colaboración Cochrane. Las características de los estudios fueron extraídas a partir de las publicaciones originales. Se realizó una síntesis narrativa de las estimaciones del efecto para las comparaciones y desenlaces de interés a partir de los estudios de mejor calidad. Se estimaron medidas combinadas del efecto a través de un metanálisis con el método de Mantel-Haenszel y un modelo de efectos aleatorios, empleando el programa RevMan 5.2. Resultados: Everolimus, en terapia combinada con ciclosporina o tacrolimus presenta un perfil semejante a su comparador micofenolato en terapia combinada en los desenlaces supervivencia del injerto al año (para riñón RR=1.00 IC95% 0.97, 1.01), para hígado p=0.50 y para corazón RR=1.0, IC95% 0.98, 1.02) y supervivencia del paciente al año (para riñón RR=0.99 IC95% 0.97, 1.01, para hígado p=0.60 y para corazón RR=0.97 IC95% 0.94, 1.01), pues no se encontraron diferencias con significancia estadística en ninguno de estos desenlaces. En relación al desenlace rechazo agudo en el primer año en trasplante de riñón y corazón se desempeña de manera semejante everolimus más CyA más PRED comparado con micofenolato con igual combinación. En trasplante de hígado al comparar everolimus más tacrólimus a dosis baja más PRED se desempeña mejor que everolimus más tacrólimus a dosis estándar en el mismo desenlace (p=0.003). Al evaluar la función renal al año everolimus más CyA más PRED se comporta de manera semejante a micofenolato con igual combinación en pacientes receptores de trasplante renal, sin embargo en los pacientes receptores de trasplante de corazón es mejor everolimus en conservar la función renal (RR= -4.86, IC95% -8.68, -1.04). En receptores de trasplante de hígado tiene mejor desempeño everolimus más TAC a dosis baja más esteroide comparado con EVE más TAC a dosis estándar más esteroide pues conserva mejor la función renal a los doce meses (80.9±27.3 vs 70.3±23.1, p<0.0001). En relación a seguridad everolimus, en terapia combinada presenta un perfil semejante a micofenolato, en la presentación de eventos adversos de manera global, malignidad, diabetes de novo, diarrea y temblor. El evento adverso infección por citomegalovirus en el primer año fue menor en los pacientes que recibieron everolimus. Los eventos adversos edema periférico, hiperlipidemia y anemia fueron más frecuentes en los pacientes del grupo de everolimus. Además everolimus tiene efecto protector sobre el evento vasculopatía del trasplante cardíaco (RR=0.47 IC95% 0.25, 0.89).\r\nEn receptores de trasplante de hígado se presentaron en mayor proporción los eventos adversos edema periférico e hiperlipidemia los 24 meses (p<0,0001) con EVE más TAC a dosis baja más PRED al compararlo con EVE más TAC dosis estándar. Los eventos adversos edema periférico e hiperlipidemia a los 24 meses (p<0.0001) son más frecuentes con EVE mas TAC a dosis baja. No se encontraron diferencias para los eventos adversos diarrea, anemia y proteinuria. Conclusiones: En pacientes receptores de trasplante de riñón, hígado y corazón everolimus en terapia combinada con ciclosporina y esteroide tiene un perfil semejante de efectividad y seguridad que el micofenolato en terapia combinada, excepto en los desenlaces rechazo del trasplante de hígado a un año y función renal al año en el que everolimus es mejor, además de que tener una menor proporción de infección por citomegalovirus al año.(AU)

Uso del Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) para la evaluación de las técnicas intervencionistas en el tratamiento de la lumbalgia / Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) for evaluation of interventional techniques in back pain treatment

El inventario breve de valoración del dolor o Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) es una escala desarrollada por The Pain Research Group de la Universidad de Wisconsin para la valoración del dolor oncológico y no oncológico en su intensidad, repercusión emocional y funcional, validada en español. El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue valorar el efecto de los procedimientos intervencionistas sobre el dolor en pacientes con lumbalgia a través del BPI. La evaluación se realizó en la Policlínica de Terapia del Dolor del Departamento de Anestesiología del Hospital de Clínicas, Montevideo, Uruguay, desde octubre de 2013 a septiembre de 2014 a pacientes que recibieron inyecciones epidurales o facetarias de corticoides a nivel lumbar, mediante la aplicación de BPI antes y luego de un mes de realizado el procedimiento. Un total de 60 pacientes que recibieron procedimientos intervencionistas como parte de la terapia multimodal de su lumbalgia fueron evaluados. Más del 50 por ciento de los pacientes estudiados presentaron una respuesta exitosa en cada ítem del BPI al mes de haberse realizado los procedimientos mencionados, entendiendo como tal a una reducción en cada ítem de un 50 por ciento o más, comparado con la evaluación basal. El BPI resultó ser útil en la evaluación de los efectos de los procedimientos intervencionistas sobre distintos aspectos del dolor en pacientes con lumbalgia. Estos efectos fueron aceptables a corto plazo...

The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) is a scale to evaluated cancer and non-cancer pain developed by The Pain Research Group of the University of Wisconsin, validated in Spanish. It includes evaluation of pain intensity, emotional and functional repercussion of pain. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of interventional pain procedures in back pain using the BPI. The study was performed in the Pain Clinic Service of the University Anesthesiolgy Department, Hospital de Clínicas, Montevideo, Uruguay, from October 2013 to March 2014. Sixty patients with back pain received epidural and facet joint steroid injections as part of a multimodal treatment approach. The BPI was performed before and 1 month after receiving the procedures. More than 50 percent of the patients had a successful response to procedures, defined this as a 50 percent improvement in BPI scale items, comparing control measures with baseline ones. The BPI was considered a useful tool to evaluate the effects of interventional procedures in back pain treatment. These effects were considered moderate in a short term follow-up...