Hemoptisis secundaria a tuberculosis pulmonar complicada con pseudoaneurisma de Rasmussen. Reporte de un caso en pediatría. / Hemoptysis in Pulmonary Tuberculosis Complicated by Rasmussen's Pseudoaneurysm. A Pediatric Case Report.

Presentamos el caso de un niño de 12 años que consultó por hemoptisis, sin otros sín- tomas asociados. Se realizó radiografía de tórax (patológica), laboratorio con aumen- to moderado de reactantes de fase aguda, PPD (negativa), esputos x 3 con bacilosco- pias negativas y tomografía de tórax con contraste i.v. que mostró imágenes de árbol en brote en todos los lóbulos y una imagen de dilatación vascular de una rama de la ar- teria pulmonar en lóbulo superior izquierdo. Se plantearon diagnósticos diferenciales: malformación vascular primaria o lesión secundaria a infección. La angiografía digital permitió confirmar el pseudoaneurisma y embolizarlo. Luego de 17 días, 2/3 cultivos de esputo fueron positivos para Mycobacterium tuberculosis. El niño realizó tratamiento antituberculoso con drogas de primera línea con evolución clínica favorable. Este caso resalta la importancia de considerar el pseudoaneurisma de Rasmussen en- tre las posibles complicaciones de un paciente con tuberculosis y hemoptisis recurren- te o masiva.

We present the case of a 12-year-old boy admitted to the hospital due to hemoptysis without other symptoms. We performed a Thorax X-Ray (pathological), laboratory with elevated acute phase reactants, TST (negative), sputum x 3 with negative smear and computed tomography angiography showing a tree-in-bud pattern in all lobes, and di-latation of a brunch of the pulmonary artery in the upper left lobe. We considered pri-mary vascular anomaly or lesion due to infection as a differential diagnosis. The patient underwent digital angiography and therapeutic embolization of this pseudoaneurysm. After seventeen days, 2/3 of the sputum cultures were positive for Mycobacterium tu-berculosis. The patient received standard anti-TB therapy with favorable evolution. This case highlights the importance of considering complications such as Rasmussen's pseudoaneurysm in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and recurrent or massive hemoptysis.

Concepções sobre tratamento e diagnóstico da tuberculose pulmonar para quem a vivencia / Concepciones sobre el tratamiento y diagnóstico de la tuberculosis pulmonar para quienes la padecen / Conceptions about treatment and diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis for those who experience it

Resumo Objetivos analisar as concepções de pessoas que vivenciam o tratamento e o diagnóstico da tuberculose pulmonar. Método trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva e exploratória, com abordagem qualitativa, desenvolvida em um Centro de Saúde Escola de Belém (Pará) com 30 pacientes. Os dados foram coletados durante o período de setembro de 2019 a janeiro de 2020 por meio de entrevista semiestruturada com o auxílio de um roteiro contendo seis perguntas, assim como a observação das informações contidas no prontuário e no livro de controle de registro da tuberculose. Para a análise dos resultados, foi utilizada a técnica de Análise de Conteúdo segundo a perspectiva de Bardin. Resultado identificou-se que o reduzido conhecimento sobre a doença e a presença de concepções negativas influenciam, de forma significativa, a busca por cuidados ou a adesão ao tratamento, interferindo nas atividades diárias e laborais. Conclusão conclui-se que persiste a necessidade de os doentes (res)significarem a tuberculose durante o tratamento, sendo fundamental que a equipe de saúde conheça tais concepções, a fim de subsidiar cuidados que contemplem aspectos físicos e biopsicossociais ante o Programa de Controle da Tuberculose da unidade.

Resumen Objetivos analizar las concepciones de las personas que viven el tratamiento y diagnóstico de la tuberculosis pulmonar. Método se trata de una investigación descriptiva y exploratoria con abordaje cualitativo, desarrollada en un Centro de Salud Escolar de Belém (Pará), con 30 pacientes. Los datos fueron recogidos durante el período de septiembre de 2019 a enero de 2020 a través de una entrevista semiestructurada con la ayuda de un guion con seis preguntas, así como la observación de las informaciones contenidas en el prontuario y en el libro de control de registro de la tuberculosis. Para analizar los resultados se utilizó una técnica de análisis de contenido según la perspectiva de Bardin. Resultado se identificó que el escaso conocimiento sobre la enfermedad y la presencia de concepciones negativas influyen, de forma significativa, en la búsqueda de cuidados o la adhesión al tratamiento, interfiriendo en las actividades diarias y laborales. Conclusión se concluye que persiste la necesidad de los pacientes de (re)significar la tuberculosis durante el tratamiento, y del equipo tratante, de conocer tales concepciones, para subsidiar cuidados que contemplen aspectos físicos y biopsicosociales ante el Programa de Control de la Tuberculosis de la unidad.

Abstract Objectives to analyze the conceptions of people experiencing treatment and diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. Method this is a descriptive and exploratory research with a qualitative approach, developed in a School Health Center of Belém (Pará) with 30 patients. Data was collected during the period from September 2019 to January 2020 through a semi-structured interview with the aid of a script containing six questions, as well as the observation of the information contained in the medical record and in the tuberculosis record control book. For the analysis of the results, the Content Analysis technique was used according to Bardin's perspective. Result it was identified that the reduced knowledge about the disease and the presence of negative conceptions influence, in a significant way, the search for care or the adherence to treatment, interfering in daily and work activities. Conclusion it is concluded that the need for patients to (re)mean tuberculosis during treatment persists, and it is essential that the health team knows such conceptions in order to provide care that contemplates physical and bio-psychosocial aspects before the Tuberculosis Control Program of the unit.

Caracterización clínico epidemiológico laboratorial de pacientes con tuberculosis del Hospital Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas / Clinical-epidemiological-laboratory characterization of patients with tuberculosis of the Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas Hospital

Un tercio de 38,6 millones de personas infectadas por el virus de inmuno- deficiencia humana (VIH) también están infectadas por el bacilo de la tuberculosis, teniendo una probabilidad hasta 50 veces mayor de sufrir tuberculosis, en comparación con los no infectados. La demora de dicho diagnóstico en pacientes con (VIH) es causa importante de mayor mortalidad. Objetivo. Identificar las características epidemiológicas, clínicas y analíticas laboratoriales de pacientes con infección por el Virus de Inmunodefi- ciencia Humana (VIH) manejados en el Servicio de Atención Integral del Hospital Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas, con diagnóstico de tuberculosis en 2018 y 2019. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio retrospectivo, población 2077 adultos, de ellos 54 personas sobreinfectadas con VIH/TB entre 2018 y 2019, el tamaño de la muestra fue de 40 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Se revisó la base de datos de tuberculosis del servicio, posteriormente los expedientes, teniendo en cuenta datos de seis meses previos al diagnóstico de tuberculosis, hasta su confirmación. Resultados. El del 82.5% (33) no habían recibido profilaxis, 31.5% (25) presentaba antecedentes de abandono de TARV, 82.5% fueron diagnosticados con tuberculosis pulmonar, de estos 54.6% (22) presentaba LT CD4 <200 células/ dl. Síntomas iniciales fueron la pérdida de peso 32.5% (13), tos 15% (6); al diagnóstico 92.5% (37) presentaban pérdida de peso, 87.5% (35) fiebre, 85% (35) tos. Conclusiones. La mayoría de los pacientes no habían recibido quimioprofilaxis, una cuarta parte habían abandonado el TARV. La mayoría fué diagnosticada con tuberculosis pulmonar y más de la mitad presentó LTCD4<200 celulas /dl. Nuestra cohorte presentó similar clínico que lo referenciado en la literatura internacional...(AU)

Masa pulmonar como manifestación primaria de tuberculosis en pediatría: reporte de un caso / Pulmonary tuberculosis presenting as a lung mass in children: case report

La tuberculosis es una de las principales causas infecciosas de muerte en el mundo y es endémica en Argentina. La mayoría de los casos de tuberculosis son de localización pulmonar; el tuberculoma una complicación infrecuente. Se describe un caso clínico de presentación pulmonar atípica de tuberculosis. Se trata de una niña de 15 meses, previamente sana, derivada a neumología por fiebre, mal progreso de peso e imagen persistente por 2 meses en la radiografía de tórax a pesar de haber recibido antibioticoterapia. Antecedente de contacto estrecho con persona sintomática respiratoria. Se internó para estudio, mostró una PPD de 13 mm y una masa voluminosa heterogénea en el lóbulo superior izquierdo en la tomografía computada de tórax. Se realizaron tres lavados gástricos y toracoscopia exploratoria con biopsia pulmonar con rescate de Mycobacterium tuberculosis en cultivos. Se diagnosticó tuberculoma pulmonar y realizó tratamiento estándar con fármacos antituberculosos con evolución favorable.

Tuberculosis is one of the main causes of death due to infection around the world. Although tuberculosis frequently involves lung parenchyma, tuberculoma is a rare complication. We describe an atypical pulmonary presentation of tuberculosis. A 15-month-old girl, previously healthy, was referred to the pulmonology department due to fever, poor weight gain, and a 2-months persistent lung image on chest x-ray despite antibiotic therapy. She had been in frequent contact with a respiratory symptomatic subject. She was admitted to the hospital with a TST of 13 mm and a heterogeneous bulky mass in the left upper lobe at chest computed tomography. Three gastric lavages were done and the patient underwent exploratory thoracoscopy and lung biopsy, with positive cultures for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculoma was confirmed, and the patient received standard anti- tuberculosis therapy with a favorable evolution.

Caracterización clínica y microbiológica de pacientes con trazas en Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra / Clinical and microbiological characterization of patients with Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra traces

INTRODUCCIÓN: El Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Ultra) ha mejorado dramáticamente el diagnóstico de la tuberculosis (TBC). Con él ha nacido la categoría de trazas, que es la menor carga bacilar detectable por este examen. OBJETIVO: Describir las características clínicas de los pacientes con presencia de trazas en el Ultra y evaluar la confirmación de la TBC como diagnóstico clínico. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo de serie de casos. Se extrajo la información de fichas clínicas de pacientes con positividad a trazas. Se confrontaron datos clínicos, microbiológicos e histopatológicos. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 21 pacientes. La edad promedio fue de 52 años. Todos los casos presentaron baciloscopias negativas. Cuatro cultivos en medio líquido MGIT fueron positivos, dos en pleura parietal, uno en líquido pleural y otro en expectoración. En pleura parietal, tres casos presentaron granulomas con necrosis caseosa y un granuloma esbozos de necrosis. En tejido pulmonar se observaron dos casos con granulomas con esbozos de necrosis y dos con granulomas no necrotizantes. Tres pacientes tenían el antecedente de TBC previa, se interpretó la positividad de trazas en ellos como falsos positivos. Finalmente se diagnosticaron 13 casos como TBC activa, donde cinco de ellos fueron TBC pleurales. La mayor concordancia clínica, microbiológica e histopatológica fue en muestras de líquido y tejido pleural. DISCUSIÓN: Se debe interpretar con cautela los hallazgos de esta prueba en muestras de vía aérea; el análisis multidisciplinario (clínica, imágenes, microbiología, histología) es crucial en las decisiones de nuestras conductas clínicas futuras. El hallazgo de trazas en pleura tiene, a nuestro parecer, un alto valor diagnóstico en el estudio de la tuberculosis en esta localización.

INTRODUCTION: Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra has dramatically changed the diagnosis of tuberculosis. A new category called traces appeared, which is the smallest amount of bacillar load detectable. OBJECTIVE: Describe the clinical characteristics of patients that present traces in Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra test, and to evaluate the confirmation of tuberculosis as clinical diagnosis. METHODS: We perform a descriptive case series study. Information was recovered from clinical records of patients with positive test for traces. Clinical, histopathological and microbiological results were confronted. RESULTS: Twenty one patients were analyzed. The mean age was 52 years-old. All cases had negative smear microscopy and four MGIT cultures were positive, two in pleural fluid and another in sputum. In parietal pleura, three cases presented granulomas with caseous necrosis, and one showed granuloma with very little necrosis. In pleural tissue we observed two cases of granulomas with traces of necrosis and two with non-necrotizing granulomas. Three patients had history of previous tuberculosis and positive traces, the test was interpreted as a false positive result. Finally, active tuberculosis was diagnosed in 13 cases, and five of them were pleural tuberculosis. The highest clinical, microbiological and histopathological agreement was in fluid and pleural tissue samples. DISCUSSION: The findings of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra in airway samples must be interpreted carefully. Multi-disciplinary analysis is crucial in future clinical decisions. The finding of traces in pleura has, in our opinion, a high diagnostic value in the study of tuberculosis in this location.

Tuberculose pulmonar causada pelo uso de infliximab em paciente com Doença de Crohn / Pulmonary tuberculosis caused by the use of infliximab in a patient with Crohn's Disease

A doença de Crohn é uma patologia caracterizada pela inflamação transmural do trato gastrointestinal, compondo o espectro das doenças inflamatórias intestinais. Nos casos mais graves, dispõe de tratamento com uso de agentes biológicos e imunomoduladores que podem à reativação ou exacerbação de doenças infecciosas preexistentes. Este relato de caso trata de uma paciente do sexo feminino de 24 anos, diagnosticada com Doença de Crohn há 10 anos, evoluindo com necessidade de tratamento com infliximab e, após período de menos de 1 ano, apresentou odinofagia progressiva, dor abdominal e diarreia, além de perda ponderal, sudorese noturna e febre diária. Tomografia computadorizada de tórax evidenciou árvore em brotamento, sendo confirmado diagnóstico de tuberculose pulmonar pelo Teste Rápido Molecular no escarro e provável tuberculose laríngea e intestinal.

Crohn's disease is a pathology characterized by transmural inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, comprising the spectrum of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. In the most severe cases, treatment using biological agents and immunomodulators may be available, which can lead to the reactivation or exacerbation of preexisting infectious diseases. This case report is about a 24-year-old female patient, diagnosed with Crohn's disease 10 years ago, evolving in need of treatment with Infliximab and, after a period of less than 1 year, she presented progressive odynophagia, abdominal pain and diarrhea, in addition to weight loss, night sweats and daily fever. Chest computer tomography showed a tree in bud, and the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis was confirmed by the Rapid Molecular Test in the sputum and probable laryngeal and intestinal tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis laríngea secundaria a foco pulmonar primario inadvertido: caso clínico / Laryngeal tuberculosis secondary to an inadvertent primary pulmonary focus: clinical case

Introducción: La tuberculosis laríngea es una entidad sumamente rara en países del primer mundo, sin embargo, en nuestro medio no es extraño, como país latinoamericano, sospechar esta patología como una de las causas de disfonía y lesiones granulomatosas en la actualidad. La tuberculosis laríngea debe considerarse dentro de las patologías en pacientes con disfonía de larga evolución que no responden al tratamiento común, esta entidad puede ser confundida con neoplasias. Reporte de caso: Se presenta el caso de una mujer en la cuarta década de la vida con disfonía crónica de 6 meses de evolución, que fue remitida para laringoscopia. Se localizaron neoformaciones granulomatosas acompañadas de edema en ambas cuerdas vocales, sometidas a biopsia, con resultados con la tinción de hematoxilina-eosina de células gigantes multinucleadas de Langhans y la tinción Zielh-Nielsen fue positiva para bacilo alcohol ácido resistente. La radiografía de tórax mostró lesiones reticulonodulares sugestivas de tuberculosis pulmonar. Conclusión: Un alto nivel de sospecha y un diagnóstico temprano pueden limitar las complicaciones y facilitar un manejo oportuno de estos casos. Es necesario sospechar de tuberculosis laríngea en pacientes que presentan disfonía crónica, especialmente cuando se asocia con síntomas constitucionales, aunque no siempre los presentan, por otro lado, en algunos casos, no existe asociación con inmunodeficiencia.

Introduction: Laryngeal tuberculosis is an extremely rare entity in first world countries, however, it is not strange in our environment as a Latin American country to suspect this pathology as one of the causes of dysphonia and granulomatous lesions today. Laryngeal tuberculosis should be considered within the pathologies in patients with long-standing dysphonia that do not respond to common treatment, this entity can be confused with neoplasms. Case report: We present the case of a female in the fourth decade of life with chronic dysphonia of six months of evolution, who was referred for laryngoscopy, granulomatous neoformations accompanied by edema in both vocal cords were located, subjected to biopsy with results with hematoxylin staining. Langhans multinucleated giant cell eosin and Zielh-Nielsen staining were positive for acid-fast bacillus. Chest X-ray showed reticule-nodular lesions suggestive of pulmonary tuberculosis. Conclusion: A high level of suspicion and an early diagnosis can limit complications and facilitate timely management of these cases. It is necessary to suspect laryngeal tuberculosis in patients with chronic dysphonia, especially when associated with constitutional symptoms, although they do not always present them; on the other hand, in some cases, there is no association with immunodeficiency

Tuberculosis screening indicators in indigenous population in Colombia: a mixed methods research / Indicadores de tamizaje de tuberculosis en población indígena de Colombia: una investigación de métodos mixtos / Indicadores de triagem para tuberculose numa população indígena na Colômbia: uma pesquisa com métodos mistos

This study aims to evaluate, via a mixed methods study, the implementation of the screening process for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) within indigenous population of the Department of Cauca, Colombia, during the 2016-2018 period. Indicators assessing the PTB screening process were elaborated and estimated. Subsequently, an evaluation of the indicators were performed based on a sampling process from health care providers of the municipalities with the highest and lowest PTB incidence and from key agents' perspective. Screening indicators were estimated and thematic analysis was performed based on the interviews conducted with key agents. Finally, a triangulation of quantitative and qualitative findings was performed. From the total population expected to have respiratory symptomatics (n = 16,711), the health care providers were able to identify 42.3% of them. Out of the individuals identified as respiratory symptomatics (n = 7,064), they were able to examine 93.2% (n = 6,585) with at least one acid-fast bacilli smear test. The reported positivity index from acid-fast bacilli smear test was 1.87%. The explanations from key agents revolved around the possibility of an overestimated targeted amount of respiratory symptomatics; insufficient personnel for the search of symptomatic individuals; high costs for the search in areas of difficult access; the need to request permissions from indigenous authorities; culturally ingrained stigma; use of traditional medicine and self-medication; and patient's personal beliefs. This study revealed barriers in the implementation of the screening process for PTB within the indigenous population from the Department of Cauca, mainly in the identifying process of the respiratory symptomatics.

El objetivo fue evaluar la implementación del proceso y los indicadores en las pruebas para detectar tuberculosis pulmonar (TBP) en población indígena del Departamento de Cauca, Colombia, durante el periodo de 2016-2018, a través de un estudio de métodos mixtos. Fueron elaborados y estimados indicadores para el tamizaje de TBP. Posteriormente, a través de un proceso de muestreo de los proveedores de cuidados de salud de las municipalidades con las incidencias más altas y más bajas de TBP, y desde la perspectiva de actores clave, se intentó encontrar una explicación para los resultados de la primera fase. Se estimaron los indicadores de las pruebas y se realizó un análisis temático de las entrevistas dirigidas a los actores clave. Finalmente, se realizó la triangulación de los hallazgos cuantitativos y cualitativos. Del total de sintomáticos respiratorios esperados (n = 16.711), los proveedores de servicios de salud fueron capaces de identificar a un 42,3% de ellos, y de estos sintomáticos respiratorios identificados (n = 7.064) fueron capaces de examinar un 93,2% (n = 6.585) con al menos una prueba de frotis de bacilos ácidorresistentes. El índice de positividad informado en la prueba de la flema analizada en el microscopio, mediante la prueba de frotis de bacilos ácidorresistentes, fue 1.87%. Las explicaciones de los actores clave giraron alrededor de la percepción de un objetivo posiblemente sobreestimado de sintomáticos respiratorios; insuficiente personal para la consulta; altos costes para las consultas en áreas geográficas de difícil acceso; solicitud de permisos a las autoridades indígenas; estigma; medicina tradicional, automedicación y creencias. Este estudio reveló barreras en la implementación de las pruebas para la TBP en la población indígena del Departamento de Cauca, principalmente en el proceso de identificación de sintomáticos respiratorios.

O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a implementação do processo e os indicadores de triagem para tuberculose pulmonar (TBP) numa população indígena do Departamento de Cauca, Colômbia, no período 2016-2018. Foi realizado um estudo com métodos mistos. Foram elaborados e estimados os indicadores para triagem da TBP. Em seguida, procurou-se explicar os achados da primeira fase, com base em um processo de amostragem de provedores de saúde dos municípios com os coeficientes mais altos e mais baixos de incidência de TBP, e da perspectiva dos atores-chave. Os indicadores de triagem foram estimados e a análise foi realizada das entrevistas com os atores-chave. Finalmente, foi feita a triangulação dos achados quantitativos e qualitativos. Do total de sintomáticos respiratórios esperados (n = 16.711), o provedor de saúde conseguiu identificar 42,3%, e destes sintomáticos respiratórios identificados (n = 7.064) conseguiram examinar 93,2% (n = 6.585) com pelo menos um exame de escarro (teste de BAAR). O índice de positividade do teste de BAAR foi de 1,87%. As explicações dos atores chave giraram em torno da percepção de uma proporção possivelmente superestimada de sintomáticos respiratórios, pessoal insuficiente para a busca, custos elevados da busca em áreas de difícil acesso geográfico, solicitação de autorização pelas autoridades indígenas, estigma, medicina tradicional, automedicação e crenças. O estudo revelou barreiras para a implementação da triagem para TBP na população indígena do Departamento de Cauca, principalmente no processo de identificação de sintomáticos respiratórios.

Escrofuloderma: tuberculosis cutánea y pulmonar asociada a coinfección COVID-19: reporte de caso / Scrofuloderma, cutaneous and pulmonary tuberculosis associated with COVID-19: report of one case

Cutaneous tuberculosis represents 1-1.5% of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, including a variety of clinical conditions. Scrofuloderma and lupus vulgaris are the most common forms. We report a 49-year-old woman who sought medical attention through tele-dermatology concerning a cervical nodule associated with suppuration and cutaneous involvement. The diagnoses of scrofuloderma and pulmonary tuberculosis were confirmed, and during her evolution she presented a coinfection with SARS-CoV-2. The possible associations between tuberculosis and COVID-19 were reviewed.

Predictores de tuberculosis pulmonar y experiencia con su diagnóstico molecular rápido / Pulmonary tuberculosis predictors and rapid molecular diagnosis / Preditores de tuberculose pulmonar e experiência com o diagnóstico molecular rápido

Resumen: A nivel mundial se estima que en 2018 hubo alrededor de 10 millones de nuevos casos de tuberculosis (TBC). La detección molecular es una herramienta diagnóstica crecientemente utilizada para el diagnóstico de TBC. Los predictores de riesgo para TBC pulmonar son variados y varían de acuerdo a la población estudiada. Los objetivos del presente trabajo fueron: evaluar la performance de la detección de M. tuberculosis por la técnica Xpert® MTB/RIF para el diagnóstico de TBC pulmonar y determinar los factores predictores de presencia de esta enfermedad en pacientes asistidos en el Hospital Pasteur de Montevideo. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y transversal. Se incluyeron 254 pacientes, 68 con TBC pulmonar. La sensibilidad de la prueba Xpert® MTB/RIF para detectar M. tuberculosis fue 100% (IC 95%: 91,2-100) y la especificidad 95,1% (IC 95%: 83,9-98,7). En el análisis multivariado se evidenció que los predictores independientes para presencia de TBC pulmonar fueron: contacto cercano con otro caso de TBC (p<0,001), consumo de pasta base de cocaína (p=0,006) y presentarse con adelgazamiento (p<0,001). En suma, la prueba Xpert® MTB/RIF se comportó como una excelente herramienta diagnóstica en nuestra población con elevada prevalencia de TBC pulmonar. Los predictores independientes para esta enfermedad indican que en la población analizada las estrategias de control de esta enfermedad requieren un abordaje multidisciplinario.

Summary: According to global estimations, there were approximately 10 million new cases of tuberculosis in 2018. Molecular diagnosis constitutes a rapidly growing diagnostic tool for tuberculosis. Risk predictors for pulmonary tuberculosis are varied and they depend on the population studied. The study aimed to assess the performance of M. tuberculosis detection by use of Xpert® MTB/RIF diagnostic test to diagnose pulmonary tuberculosis and to identify predictive factors for this disease in patients assisted at Pasteur Hospital in Montevideo. A descriptive, observational and transversal study was conducted, which included 254 patients, 68 of which had pulmonary tuberculosis. Sensitivity of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay to detect M. tuberculosis was 100% (CI 95%: 91.2-100) and specificity 95.1% (CI 95%: 83.9-98.7). Multivariate analysis evidenced the following to be the independent predictors that detect pulmonary tuberculosis: close contact with other cases of tuberculosis (p<0.001), coca-paste consumption (p=0.006) and evidence of loss of weight (p<0,001). To sum up, the Xpert® MTB/RIF assay proved to be an excellent diagnostic tool in our population with a high prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis. Independent predictors for this disease show that, in the population studied, control strategies require a multidisciplinary approach.

Resumo: Globalmente, estima-se que em 2018 ocorreram cerca de 10 milhões de novos casos de tuberculose (TB). A detecção molecular é uma ferramenta diagnóstica cada vez mais usada para seu diagnóstico. Os preditores de risco para TB pulmonar são diversos e variam de acordo com a população estudada. Os objetivos deste estudo foram: avaliar o desempenho da detecção do M. tuberculosis pela técnica Xpert MTB/RIF para o diagnóstico da TB pulmonar e determinar os fatores preditivos da presença desta doença em pacientes atendidos no Hospital Pasteur de Montevidéu. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, observacional e transversal. 254 pacientes foram incluídos, 68 com TB pulmonar. A sensibilidade do teste Xpert® MTB/RIF para detectar M. tuberculosis foi de 100% (IC 95%: 91,2-100) e a especificidade de 95,1% (IC 95%: 83,9- 98,7). A análise multivariada mostrou que os preditores independentes para a presença de tuberculose pulmonar foram: contato próximo com outro caso de tuberculose (p <0,001), consumo de pasta base de cocaína (p = 0,006) e apresentar perda de peso (p <0,001). Em suma, o teste Xpert® MTB/RIF se comportou como uma excelente ferramenta diagnóstica em nossa população com alta prevalência de TB pulmonar. Os preditores independentes para essa doença indicam que, na população analisada, as estratégias de controle da doença requerem uma abordagem multidisciplinar.

Diagnostic performance of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay in BAL fluid samples from patients under clinical suspicion of pulmonary tuberculosis: a tertiary care experience in a high-tuberculosis-burden area / Desempenho diagnóstico do teste Xpert MTB/RIF em amostras de LBA de pacientes com suspeita clínica de tuberculose pulmonar: experiência na atenção terciária em uma área com alta carga de tuberculose

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the diagnostic performance of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay, a rapid molecular test for tuberculosis, comparing it with that of AFB staining and culture, in BAL fluid (BALF) samples from patients with clinically suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) who are sputum smear-negative or produce sputum samples of insufficient quantity. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 140 cases of suspected PTB in patients who were smear-negative or produced insufficient sputum samples and were evaluated at a tertiary teaching hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. All of the patients underwent fiberoptic bronchoscopy with BAL. The BALF specimens were evaluated by AFB staining, mycobacterial culture, and the Xpert MTB/RIF assay. Results: Among the 140 patients, results for all three microbiological examinations were available for 73 (52.1%), of whom 22 tested positive on culture, 17 tested positive on AFB staining, and 20 tested positive on the Xpert MTB/RIF assay. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy for AFB staining were 68.1%, 96.1%, 88.2%, 87.5%, and 87.6%, respectively, compared with 81.8%, 96.1%, 90.0%, 92.4%, and 91.8%, respectively, for the Xpert MTB/RIF assay. The agreement between AFB staining and culture was 82.3% (kappa = 0.46; p < 0.0001), whereas that between the Xpert MTB/RIF assay and culture was 91.8% (kappa = 0.8; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: In BALF samples, the Xpert MTB/RIF assay performs better than do traditional methods, providing a reliable alternative to sputum analysis in suspected cases of PTB. However, the rate of discordant results merits careful consideration.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o desempenho diagnóstico do teste Xpert MTB/RIF - teste molecular rápido para tuberculose, comparando-o com o da pesquisa de BAAR e da cultura, em amostras de LBA de pacientes com suspeita clínica de tuberculose pulmonar (TBP) que apresentam baciloscopia de escarro negativa ou produzem amostras com quantidade insuficiente de escarro. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo de 140 casos suspeitos de TBP em pacientes que apresentaram baciloscopia negativa ou produziram amostras de escarro insuficientes e foram avaliados em um hospital-escola terciário na cidade do Rio de Janeiro (RJ). Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à fibrobroncoscopia com LBA. Os espécimes de LBA foram avaliados por meio da realização de pesquisa de BAAR, cultura para micobactérias e teste Xpert MTB/RIF. Resultados: Entre os 140 pacientes, resultados de todos os três exames microbiológicos estavam disponíveis para 73 (52,1%), dos quais 22 apresentaram cultura positiva, 17, pesquisa de BAAR positiva, e 20, teste Xpert MTB/RIF positivo. A sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo, valor preditivo negativo e precisão global da pesquisa de BAAR foram de 68,1%, 96,1%, 88,2%, 87,5% e 87,6%, respectivamente, contra 81,8%, 96,1%, 90,0%, 92,4% e 91,8%, respectivamente, do teste Xpert MTB/RIF. A concordância entre a pesquisa de BAAR e a cultura foi de 82,3% (kappa = 0,46; p < 0,0001), enquanto a concordância entre o teste Xpert MTB/RIF e a cultura foi de 91,8% (kappa = 0,8; p < 0,0001). Conclusões: Em amostras de LBA, o teste Xpert MTB/RIF tem melhor desempenho do que os métodos tradicionais, fornecendo uma alternativa confiável à análise do escarro em casos suspeitos de TBP. No entanto, a taxa de resultados discordantes merece uma reflexão cuidadosa.

COVID-19 in a child with down syndrome and extensive pulmonary tuberculosis: a case report / COVID-19 em criança com síndrome de down e tuberculose pulmonar extensa: relato de caso

Abstract Introduction: although pediatric patients have comparatively fewer cases of COVID-19, children with Down Syndrome exhibit comorbidities such as immunodeficiency, diabetes and, in this perspective, are considered a population at risk for severe COVID-19. In addition, the literature also points to an unfavorable perspective on co-infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, considered an important comorbidity and a predictor of a worse clinical outcome. Description: female child, nine years old, with Down Syndrome, congenital heart disease and prematurity, with significant weight loss and intermittent fever for six months. A week ago, she had an intensification of fever, productive cough and mild respiratory distress. RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 detectable in nasopharynx swab, chest X-ray with diffuse alveolar infiltrate, chest CT with consolidations, excavation, solid micronodules in a sprouting tree pattern mainly in the right upper and lower lobes. Molecular rapid test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis detectable in gastric lavage. After specific treatment, the patient progressed well and was discharged from the hospital after 72 hours without fever and improvement in her breathing pattern. Discussion: despite the extensive pulmonary involvement, the patient did not require invasive ventilatory support and presented a satisfactory short-term outcome. Therefore, the relevance of the association of Tuberculosis and COVID-19 and other comorbidities in the pediatric age group still remains uncertain.

Resumo Introdução: apesar dos pacientes pediátricos apresentarem, comparativamente, menos casos da COVID-19, crianças com Síndrome de Down manifestam comorbidades como imunodeficiência, diabetes e, nessa perspectiva, são apontadas como população de risco para COVID-19 grave. Ademais, a literatura também sinaliza para um cenário desfavorável na coinfecção com Mycobacterium tuberculosis, considerada comorbidade importante e preditora para pior desfecho clínico. Descrição: criança de nove anos, sexo feminino, com Síndrome de Down, cardiopatia congênita e prematuridade, história de perda ponderal significativa e febre intermitente vespertina há seis meses. Há uma semana, apresentou intensificação da febre, tosse produtiva e desconforto respiratório leve. RT-PCR para SARS-CoV-2 em swab de nasofaringe detectável, radiografia de tórax com infiltrado alveolar difuso, tomografia de tórax com consolidações, focos de escavação, micronódulos sólidos em padrão de árvore em brotamento principalmente em lobos superior e inferior direitos. Teste rápido molecular para Mycobacterium tuberculosis detectável em lavado gástrico. Após início de tratamento específico, a paciente exibiu melhora clínica e de padrão respiratório e recebeu alta hospitalar após 72 horas afebril. Discussão: apesar do extenso comprometimento pulmonar, a paciente não necessitou de suporte ventilatório invasivo e apresentou um desfecho satisfatório em curto prazo. Portanto, a relevância da associação de tuberculose e COVID-19 e outras comorbidades na faixa etária pediátrica ainda permanecem incertas.

Caracterización de la tuberculosis pulmonar en mayores de 15 años. Hospital de Día "Dr. Efrén Jurado López" / Characterization of pulmonary tuberculosis in over 15 years. "Dr. Efrén Jurado López Day Hospital"

La tuberculosis pulmonar constituye una enfermedad de salud pública en el territorio ecuatoriano en expansión que provoca muerte y sufrimiento para la población. El objetivo del estudio es caracterizar la tuberculosis pulmonar en individuos mayores de 15 años que asisten al Hospital de Día "Dr. Efrén Jurado López" de la ciudad de Guayaquil. Se realizó una investigación cuantitativa, descriptiva, retrospectiva. La muestra de estudio quedó conformada por 58 pacientes de ambos géneros mayores de 15 años, diagnosticados con tuberculosis en todas sus formas, atendidos en el contexto de estudio entre enero 2017 y enero de 2018. En la recolección de la información se aplicó una ficha de observación validada por expertos con previo consentimiento informado de los pacientes estudiados. Como resultados se obtuvo que el 72,4% eran del sexo masculino y el 27,6% femenino. El predominio de diagnóstico presentado fue sintomático TBP BK+ en un 100%. Por otra parte para el diagnóstico por TBP cultivo + fue 87,9% (51/58) y TBP cultivo- de 12,1% (7/58). Por otra parte la TB EP fue de 25,9% (15/58) con predominio en el sexo masculino 80%, las formas de tuberculosis y la comorbilidad asociada al al Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Humana (VIH), se observó una frecuencia de 6,9% (4/58) de personas con TB que tenían VIH, de las cuales el 5,2% correspondían a casos de VIH con tuberculosis extra pulmonar y 1,7% a casos de TBP BK+/VIH. Se debe continuar trabajando en la búsqueda de TB en pacientes sintomáticos respiratorios para un diagnóstico oportuno(AU)

Characterization of pulmonary tuberculosis in teenagers older than 15 years in thedr.Efrénjuradolópez day time hospital. Pulmonary tuberculosis is a public health disease in the expanding Ecuadorian territory that causes death and suffering for the population. The objective of the study is to characterize pulmonary tuberculosis in individuals over 15 years of age attending the "Dr. Efrén Jurado López" Day Hospital in the city of Guayaquil. A quantitative, descriptive, retrospective investigation was carried out. The study sample consisted of 58 patients of both genders over 15 years of age, diagnosed with tuberculosis in all its forms, treated in the context of the study between January 2017 and January 2018. A data sheet was applied in the collection of information observation validated by experts with prior informed consent of the patients studied. As a result, it was obtained that 72.4% were male and 27.6% female. The prevalence of diagnosis presented was symptomatic TBP BK + in 100%. On the other hand for the diagnosis by TBP culture + it was 87.9% (51/58) and TBP culture- of 12.1% (7/58). On the other hand, the TB TB was 25.9% (15/58) with a predominance in the male sex 80%, the forms of tuberculosis and the comorbidity associated with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a frequency of 6 was observed, 9% (4/58) of people with TB who had HIV, of which 5.2% corresponded to HIV cases with extra pulmonary tuberculosis and 1.7% to cases of BK + / HIV TBP. Work should continue in the search for TB in symptomatic respiratory patients for a timely diagnosis(AU)

Estrategia de pesquisa sistemática y seguimiento prolongado revela alto número de nuevas infecciones tuberculosas en contactos adultos en la Región Metropolitana, Chile / Systematic screening of adult household contacts of patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis reveals high rates of new infections during follow-up

Background: Contact investigation is cardinal in the control of tuberculosis (TB) since it helps to stop its transmission. In Chile, the National TB Program strategy does not include latent TB infection testing, regular chemoprophylaxis or follow-up in adults. Active TB was found in only 1.2% of contacts at country-level during 2018. Aim: To evaluate the performance of a systematic screening of adult household contacts with targeted chemoprophylaxis and prolonged active follow-up. Material and Methods: Prospective cohort of household contacts in Santiago. Two face-to-face visits (at 0 and 12 weeks) that included QuantiFERON TB-Gold plus tests (QFT), chest radiography (CXR) at 0 and 24 weeks and, periodic text messaging or phone call follow-up for up to 48 weeks were implemented. Contacts with positive QFT were referred for TB chemoprophylaxis. Results: A total of 200 contacts were enrolled, 69% were migrants. At baseline evaluation, 45% had a positive QFT result and 1.6% had co-prevalent active TB. At follow-up, 13% contacts further converted to QFT (+), and 5.1% more were diagnosed with active TB (mean follow-up time 32 weeks). Of these 10 further active TB cases, 6 (60%) had a negative QFT and all (100%) had normal CXR at baseline; while three cases occurred in QFT converters. Conclusions: In this cohort of household contacts, 6.7 % were diagnosed with active TB (more than 2/3 at follow-up) and 13% had a late QFT (+) conversion. Active and prolonged contacts' follow-up are essential to detect new infections and tackle the TB epidemic in Chile.

The clinical and molecular diagnosis of childhood and adolescent pulmonary tuberculosis in referral centers

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The diagnostic accuracy of Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in children is lower than in adults. In Brazil, the diagnosis of PTB is based on a diagnostic score system (DSS). This study aims to study the role of Xpert in children and adolescents with PTB symptoms. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3 referral centers to TB. Children and adolescents (0-19 years old) whose respiratory samples were submitted to Xpert were included. Statistical analysis (bivariate and logistic regression) to assess the simultaneous influence of TB-related variables on the occurrence of Xpert detectable in TB cases was done. To evaluate the agreement or disagreement between Xpert results with acid-fast bacillus (AFB) and cultures, κ method was used (significancy level of 5%). RESULTS: Eighty-eight patients were included in the study and PTB occurred in 43 patients (49%) and Xpert was detectable in 21 patients (24%). Adolescents and positive culture results were independent predictive variables of Xpert positivity. DSS sensitivity compared with the final diagnosis of TB was 100% (95% CI, 88.1-100%), specificity was 97.2% (95% CI, 85.5-99.9%). The accuracy of the method was 98.5% (95% CI, 91.7-99.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Xpert contributed to diagnosis in 9% of patients with AFB and in culture negative cases. DSS indicated relevance for this diagnostic approach of intrathoracic TB (ITB) in reference centers for presenting data both with high sensitivity and specificity.

Cost analysis of smear microscopy and the Xpert assay for tuberculosis diagnosis: average turnaround time

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Rapid and accurate tuberculosis detection is critical for improving patient diagnosis and decreasing tuberculosis transmission. Molecular assays can significantly increase laboratory costs; therefore, the average time and economic impact should be evaluated before implementing a new technology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost and average turnaround time of smear microscopy and Xpert assay at a university hospital. METHODS: The turnaround time and cost of the laboratory diagnosis of tuberculosis were calculated based on the mean cost and activity based costing (ABC). RESULTS: The average turnaround time for smear microscopy was 16.6 hours while that for Xpert was 24.1 hours. The Xpert had a mean cost of USD 17.37 with an ABC of USD 10.86, while smear microscopy had a mean cost of USD 13.31 with an ABC of USD 6.01. The sensitivity of smear microscopy was 42.9% and its specificity was 99.1%, while the Xpert assay had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 96.7%. CONCLUSIONS: The Xpert assay has high accuracy; however, the turnaround time and cost of smear microscopy were lower than those of Xpert.

Rapid detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in children using blood and urine specimens

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Laboratory and clinical features of childhood tuberculosis (TB) are non-specific and establishing an accurate diagnosis remains a challenge. This study evaluated a Single tube nested-PCR (STNPCR) to detect genomic DNA of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in blood and urine. METHODS: Biological samples were obtained from children (<15 years old) with clinical suspicion of pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB at public hospitals in Recife-Pernambuco, Brazil. Cultures yielded negative results in a majority of childhood TB cases, which are generally paucibacillary. A set of clinical, epidemiological, radiological, and laboratory criteria with evident clinical improvement after anti-TB treatment were frequently used to define childhood TB cases. RESULTS: Ninety children with clinical suspicion were enrolled in this study (44 with TB and 46 without TB). The pulmonary TB group had 20 confirmed cases and 46 negative controls, while the extrapulmonary TB group had 24 confirmed cases. The STNPCR showed sensitivities to pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB of 47.4% and 52.2% (blood) and 38.8% and 20% (urine), respectively. Considering the low performance of STNPCR on separate samples, we decided to perform a combined analysis (parallel sensitivity analysis) of the results from blood and urine samples. The parallel sensitivity increased to 65% in blood and 62.5% in urine. The specificity in both samples ranged from 93.5-97.8%. CONCLUSIONS: Although STNPCR showed moderate sensitivity, the specificity is high; therefore, the test can be used as an auxiliary tool to diagnose TB in children. It is a rapid test that demonstrated better performance than other diagnostic tests in paucibacillary samples as it does in childhood tuberculosis.

How can new technologies help reduce absenteeism in pediatric consultation? / Como as novas tecnologias podem auxiliar na redução do absenteísmo em consulta pediátrica?

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the most effective form of contact, as a possible intervention to reduce absenteeism in consultations of children with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with prospective data collection, between March 2017 and February 2018. Patients were randomized into three groups to be reminded about the appointment: telephone contact, SMS or WhatsApp, or no intervention. A convenience sample was obtained, with a significance level of 5%. Results: 78 children were included, with a median age of four years old (zero to 14); 59.0% of them were in treatment for a latent infection and 6.4% had active tuberculosis. Among the 78 children, 74.4% lived in Curitiba (Sourhern Brazil); 62.8% lived with both parents; 38.5% of the parents had formal employment and 47.4% of the mothers were housewives; 50.8% of the fathers and 55.7% of the mothers had more than nine years of schooling. In 78.2% of the families, per capita income was up to 0.5 minimum wages; 27.3% were enrolled in social programs; 28.2% lived in homes provided by the government. There was a total of 238 interventions made: 85 (35.7%) by telephone contact, 78 (32.8%) by text message (WhatsApp was 97.2% of these) and 75 (31.5%) had no further contact. There was no statistical difference among the sociodemographic and cultural characteristics studied. The absenteeism rate was 24.0% and the abandonment rate was 16.7%. Giving a reminder to the patient's guardian prior to the consultation, regardless of the intervention (p=0.021) and specifically by WhatsApp message (p=0.032) was associated with no absenteeism, though it was not associated with abandonment of the treatment. Conclusions: Using new tools, such as WhatsApp, to remind guardians of appointments reduces absenteeism. Consequently, it may lead to a reduction in abandoning treatment and it may improvetreatment outcome of children with a tuberculosis infection or disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar a forma mais efetiva de contato, como possibilidade de intervenção, para diminuir o absenteísmo em consultas de crianças com suspeita ou com tuberculose pulmonar. Métodos: Ensaio clínico randomizado com coleta de dados prospectiva, entre março de 2017 e fevereiro de 2018. Os pacientes foram aleatorizados em três grupos para relembrar a consulta: contato telefônico; mensagens curtas (SMS) ou WhatsApp; e nenhuma intervenção. Amostra de conveniência, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Incluídas 78 crianças, mediana de idade quatro anos (zero a 14); 59,0% em tratamento para infecção latente e 6,4% com tuberculose ativa; 74,4% moravam em Curitiba, Paraná; 62,8% residiam com ambos os pais; 38,5% dos pais possuíam emprego formal e 47,4% das mães eram do lar; 50,8% dos pais e 55,7% das mães possuíam mais de nove anos de estudo; em 78,2% das famílias a renda per capita foi de até 0,5 salário mínimo; 27,3% estavam inscritas em programas sociais; e 28,2% residiam em casa cedida. Foram 238 intervenções: 85 (35,7%) por contato telefônico, 78 (32,8%) por mensagem de texto (WhatsApp 97,2%) e 75 (31,5%) sem nenhum contato adicional. Nas características sociodemográficas e culturais estudadas não houve diferença estatística. O absenteísmo foi de 24,0% e o abandono, de 16,7%. Lembrar o responsável previamente à consulta, independente da intervenção (p=0,021) e especificamente por mensagem por WhatsApp (p=0,032) foi associado ao não absenteísmo, porém não associado ao abandono. Conclusões: O uso de novas ferramentas, como o aplicativo WhatsApp, pode reduzir o absenteísmo, diminuir a possibilidade de abandono no seguimento e melhorar o desfecho do tratamento de crianças com tuberculose, seja a infecção ou a doença.

Genotype®MTBDRplus and Xpert®MTB/RIF in the diagnosis of tuberculosis and resistant tuberculosis: cost analysis in a tertiary referral hospital

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The present study sought to assess the mean and activity based cost (ABC) of the laboratory diagnosis for tuberculosis through the application of conventional and molecular techniques-Xpert®MTB/RIF and Genotype®MTBDRplus-in a tertiary referral hospital in Brazil. METHODS: The mean cost and ABC formed the basis for the cost analysis of the TB laboratory diagnosis. RESULTS: The mean cost and ABC were US$ 4.00 and US$ 3.24, respectively, for a bacilloscopy; US$ 6.73 and US$ 5.27 for a Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) culture; US$ 105.42 and US$ 76.56 for a drug sensitivity test (DST)-proportions method (PM) in LJ; US$ 148.45 and US$ 136.80 for a DST-BACTECTM MGITTM 960 system; US$ 11.53 and US$ 9.89 for an Xpert®MTB/RIF; and US$ 84.21 and US$ 48.38 for a Genotype®MTBDRplus. CONCLUSIONS: The mean cost and ABC proved to be good decision-making parameters in the diagnosis of TB and MDR-TB. The effective implementation of algorithms will depend on the conditions at each location.