Intense venous reflux, quantified by a new software to analyze presurgical ultrasound, is associated with unfavorable outcomes of microsurgical varicocelectomy / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

The hemodynamic characteristics of venous reflux are associated with infertility in patients with varicocele; however, an effective method for quantifying the structural distribution of the reflux is lacking. This study aimed to predict surgical outcomes using a new software for venous reflux quantification. This was a retrospective cohort study of a consecutive series of 105 patients (age range: 22-44 years) between July 2017 and September 2019. Venous reflux of the varicocele was obtained using the Valsalva maneuver during scrotal Doppler ultrasonography before microsurgical varicocelectomy. Using this software, the colored reflux signals were segmented, and the gray scale of the color pixels representing the reflux velocity was comprehensively quantified into the mean reflux velocity of the green layer (MRVG) and the reflux velocity standard deviation of the green layer (RVSDG). Spontaneous pregnancy and changes from baseline in the semen parameters were assessed during a 12-month follow-up period. Data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. An association of the high MRVG group with impaired progressive motility (odds ratio [OR] = 2.868, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.133-7.265) and impaired sperm concentration (OR = 2.943, 95% CI: 1.196-7.239) was found during multivariate analysis. High MRVG (OR = 2.680, 95% CI: 1.086-6.614) and high RVSDG (OR = 2.508, 95% CI: 1.030-6.111) were found to be independent predictors of failure to achieve pregnancy following microsurgical repair. In summary, intense venous reflux is an independent predictor of impaired progressive motility, sperm concentration, and pregnancy outcomes after microsurgical varicocelectomy.

Predictors of microsurgical varicocelectomy efficacy in male infertility treatment: critical assessment and systematization / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

In this review, we tried to systematize all the evidence (from PubMed [MEDLINE], Scopus, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, Embase, and Google Scholar) from 1993 to 2021 on the predictors of microsurgical varicocelectomy efficacy in male infertility treatment. Regarding the outcomes of varicocele repair, we considered semen improvement and pregnancy and analyzed them separately. Based on the 2011 Oxford CEBM Levels of Evidence, we assigned a score to each trial that studied the role of the predictor. We systematized the studied predictors based on the total points, which were, in turn, calculated based on the number and quality of studies that confirmed or rejected the studied predictor as significant, into three levels of significance: predictors of high, moderate, and low clinical significance. Preoperative total motile sperm count (TMSC) coupled with sperm concentration can be a significant predictor of semen improvement and pregnancy after varicocelectomy. In addition, for semen improvement alone, scrotal Doppler ultrasound (DUS) parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and bilateral varicocelectomy are reliable predictors of microsurgical varicocelectomy efficacy.

Takayasu arteritis associated with focal and segmentary glomerulosclerosis

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a large vessel vasculitis that affects young people, related to cardiovascular outcomes and chronic kidney disease. We present the case of a 20-year-old male with a diagnosis of TA, who developed chronic kidney disease, impaired renal blood flow was ruled out, renal biopsy was compatible with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis of a collapsing variety, other possible aetiologies were excluded. The mechanisms that mediate this association have not been determined, immune-mediated mechanisms are proposed. According to our review, this is the second reported case of this association and the first with a collapsing variety.

La arteritis de Takayasu es una vasculitis de grandes vasos que afecta a personas jóvenes y se relaciona con desenlaces cardiovasculares y enfermedad renal crónica. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino de 20 arios, con diagnóstico de arteritis de Takayasu, que desarrolla enfermedad renal crónica. Se descartan alteraciones en el flujo sanguíneo renal, en tanto que la biopsia renal resulta compatible con glomeruloesclerosis focal y segmentaria de variedad colapsante. Se excluyeron otras posibles etiologías. No se han determinado los mecanismos que median en esta asociación; se proponen mecanismos inmunomediados. Según nuestra revisión, se trata del segundo caso reportado de esta asociación y el primero con variedad colapsante.

Systemic sclerosis in a patient with Turner syndrome: A case report and a review of associated autoimmune diseases

Turner's syndrome (TS) is one of the most common sex chromosome disorders caused by numeric or structural abnormalities of the X chromosome. A case of TS and Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is reported, along with a summary of all associated TS/autoimmune diseases described in English literature from 1948 to 2020, using a search in MEDLINE (Pubmed). A 32-year-old woman affected by TS was seen due to inflammatory arthralgia in small joints and dysphagia, as well as a two-year history of Raynaud's phenomenon and puffy hands. Biohumoural laboratory tests and severity scales revealed changes that allowed us to diagnose SSc. This case report emphasises the role played by sex hormones and chromosomal abnormalities in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders, and to our knowledge, this is the only case described in literature of a TS patient who developed SSc.

El síndrome de Turner (TS) es uno de los trastornos cromosómicos sexuales más comunes causados por anomalías numéricas o estructurales del cromosoma X. En este documento informamos de un caso de TS y esclerosis sistémica (SSc) y resumimos toda la asociación de TS/enfermedades autoinmunes descrita en la literatura inglesa de 1948 a 2020, encontrada buscando en MEDLINE (PubMed). Una mujer de 32 arios afectada por TS acudió a nuestra observación debido a la artralgia inflamatoria en pequenas articulaciones y disfagia y 2 anos de historia del fenómeno de Raynaud y las manos hinchadas. El laboratorio biohumoral y las pruebas instrumentales revelaron alteraciones que nos permitieron diagnosticar SSc. Nuestro informe de caso hace hincapié en el papel desempefíado por las hormonas sexuales y las anomalías cromosómicas en la patogénesis del trastorno autoinmune; y hasta nuestro conocimiento, este es el único caso descrito en la literatura de un paciente TS que desarrolló SSc.

Clinical and immunological factors associated with lupus nephritis in an Argentine patient population: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: In recent decades, the prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has increased thanks to early detection and the impact of new therapies on the survival of those affected. Up to 90% will have histopathological signs of kidney disease in the first 3 years of the disease, but lupus nephritis of clinical relevance will appear in 50% of cases, affecting kidney function and mortality. Despite aggressive therapeutic strategies, the prognosis of patients with LN remains unfavourable, mainly due to the high risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (10%-20%) and mortality from all causes. Objective: To describe the clinical and immunological risk factors of a group of patients with lupus, comparing clinical and serological characteristics in relation to renal involvement to establish possible associations. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study in which 87 patients with SLE were included. Clinical and immunological variables were analyzed. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed using the presence of nephritis as an outcome. Results: The prevalence of lupus nephritis was 59%. The significantly associated variables were arterial hypertension (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.02-9.40), age of onset of lupus less than 25 years (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.08-6.73), the presence of reticular livedo (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.09-15.7), positive anti-DNA (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.18-7.24) and low levels of complement (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.64-10.2). Conclusions: Urinary sediment abnormalities were the most common renal manifestation and lupus debut before the age of 25 seems to increase the risk of developing nephritis. Future research is required for a better explanation of the associations found.

Introducción: En las últimas décadas, la prevalencia del lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) se ha incrementado gracias a la detección temprana y al impacto de las nuevas terapias en la sobrevida de los afectados. Hasta el 90% de ellos tendrá signos histopatológicos de afección renal en los primeros 3 arios de la enfermedad, pero la nefritis lúpica (NL) de relevancia clínica aparecerá en el 50% de los casos, afectando la función renal y la mortalidad. A pesar de las estrategias terapéuticas agresivas, el pronóstico de los pacientes con NL sigue siendo desfavorable, principalmente debido al alto riesgo de progresión a enfermedad renal crónica terminal (10-20%) y de mortalidad por todas las causas. Objetivo: Describir los factores de riesgo clínicos e inmunológicos de un grupo de pacientes con lupus, comparando características clínicas y serológicas en relación con el compromiso renal, a fin de establecer posibles asociaciones. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de corte transversal en el que se incluyeron 87 pacientes con LES. Se analizaron variables clínicas e inmunológicas. Los análisis bivariado y multivariados se realizaron utilizando la presencia de nefritis como desenlace. Resultados: La prevalencia de NL fue del 59%. Las variables asociadas significativamente fueron hipertensión arterial (OR: 3,1; IC 95%: 1,02-9,40), edad de aparición del lupus menor de 25 años (OR: 2,7; IC 95%: 1,08-6,73), presencia de livedo reticularis (OR: 4,1; IC 95%: 1,0915,7), anti-DNA positivo (OR: 2,9; IC 95%: 1,18-7,24) y niveles bajos de complemento (OR: 4,0; IC 95%: 1,64-10,2). Conclusiones: Las anormalidades en el sedimento urinario fueron la manifestación renal más común, en tanto que el inicio lúpico antes de los 25 años parece incrementar el riesgo de desarrollar nefritis. Se requieren futuras investigaciones que den una mejor explicación a las asociaciones encontradas.

Características clínicas y resultados quirúrgicos de pacientes pediátricos intervenidos por cirugía robótica / Clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of pediatric patients who underwent robotic surgery

INTRODUCCIÓN. La cirugía robótica se realiza gracias al sistema telemanipulado, alcanzando tareas repetitivas, precisas y mínimamente invasivas. En Ecuador inició en el año 2016, incluyendo este procedimiento a pediatría en el 2021. OBJETIVO. Describir las características clínicas y resultados quirúrgicos de pacientes pediátricos intervenidos por cirugía robótica. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Estudio transversal analítico. Población de 278 y muestra de 40 datos de historias clínicas electrónicas de pacientes pediátricos intervenidos por cirugía robótica de agosto del 2021 a marzo del 2022 en el Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín. Criterios de inclusión: pacientes pediátricos intervenidos por cirugía robótica en el Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín. Criterios de exclusión: pacientes adultos, haber sido intervenidos quirúrgicamente por técnicas abiertas o laparoscópica. La información se obtuvo del sistema AS400; se creó una base de datos anonimizando a los pacientes. Se aplicó un análisis univariado y para determinar significancia estadística se utilizó la prueba de Chi-2. La información recolectada fue analizada en el programa estadístico International Business Machines Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. RESULTADOS: De los pacientes del estudio: 45,00% (18; 40) era adolescente. El 52,50% (21; 40) no presentó comorbilidades. 50,00% (20; 40) de las intervenciones fueron colecistectomía. 55% (22; 40) fué por diagnóstico prequirúrgico y posquirúrgico gastrointestinal y hepático. El 95,00% (38; 40) no presentó complicaciones. El 100% (40; 40) presentó sangrado G1. El 97,50% (39; 40) no presentó eventos, y el 72,5% (29; 40) no presentó dolor. El promedio de peso de los pacientes fue 41 kilogramos, con una media de 3 días de estancia hospitalaria, un promedio de 65 minutos de cirugía total y 15 minutos de docking, los cuales son estadísticamente significativos con una p= 0,001. CONCLUSIONES. Se registró las características clínicas y resultados quirúrgicos de pacientes pediátricos intervenidos por cirugía robótica. La cirugía robótica se aplicó con seguridad en pacientes pediátricos del Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín.

INTRODUCTION. Robotic surgery is performed thanks to the telemanipulated system, achieving repetitive, precise and minimally invasive tasks. In Ecuador it started in the Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín in 2016, including this procedure to pediatrics in 2021. OBJECTIVE. To describe the clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of pediatric patients operated by robotic surgery. MATERIALS and METHODS. Analytical cross-sectional study. Population of 278 and sample of 40 data from electronic medical records of pediatric patients operated by robotic surgery from August 2021 to March 2022 at the Carlos Andrade Marin Hospital. Inclusion criteria: pediatric patients who underwent robotic surgery at the Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín. Exclusion criteria: adult patients, having undergone open or laparoscopic surgery. The information was obtained from the AS400 system; a database was created by anonymizing the patients. Univariate analysis was applied and the Chi-2 test was used to determine statistical significance. The information collected was analyzed in the statistical program International Business Machines Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. RESULTS: Of the patients in the study: 45,00% (18; 40) were adolescents. 52,50% (21; 40) had no comorbidities. 50,00% (20; 40) of the interventions were cholecystectomy. 55% (22; 40) were for preoperative and postoperative gastrointestinal and hepatic diagnosis. 95,00% (38; 40) had no complications. 100% (40; 40) presented G1 bleeding. 97.50% (39; 40) did not present events, and 72,5% (29; 40) did not present pain. The average weight of the patients was 41 kilograms, with a mean hospital stay of 3 days, an average of 65 minutes of total surgery and 15 minutes of docking, which are statistically significant with a p= 0,001. CONCLUSIONS. The clinical characteristics and surgical results of pediatric patients who underwent robotic surgery were recorded. Robotic surgery was safely applied in pediatric patients at the Carlos Andrade Marin Hospital.

Prolapso rectal completo procedimiento de Delorme / Complete rectal prolapse Delorme procedure / Procedimento completo de prolapso retal Delorme

Introducción: el prolapso rectal es una invaginación del recto que produce su exteriorización a través del ano. Se denomina completo cuando está constituido por todo el espesor de la pared rectal. En su incidencia están vinculados factores como el sexo femenino, los pacientes añosos y el parto. Etiopatogenia: es multifactorial, se plantean varias teorías. Entre ellas, un fondo de saco peritoneal recto vaginal o recto vesical anormalmente profundo, la falta de fijación normal del recto a su lecho, la consecuencia de una invaginación idiopática de la parte superior del recto y un estado de relajación y atonía de la musculatura del suelo de la pelvis y del canal anal. Caso Clínico: mujer, 64 años. Prolapso rectal completo por debilidad de la musculatura del piso pélvico y canal anal. Se plantean la valoración diagnóstica y exámenes paraclínicos preoperatorios. Se describe el procedimiento de Delorme como solución técnica a su prolapso rectal. Se destaca que la paciente evolucionó favorablemente. Conclusiones: el objetivo del tratamiento es solucionar el prolapso y restaurar la función anorrectal sin provocar efectos nocivos. El prolapso que presenta esta paciente es multifactorial e incluye el conjunto de las siguientes anomalías, afecta a las mujeres de edad avanzada y multíparas, está exteriorizado permanentemente y forma parte de una enfermedad degenerativa difusa del periné. El mismo fue solucionado según el procedimiento de Delorme. La evolución de la paciente fue satisfactoria, no se objetivaron complicaciones ni recidiva en el post operatorio precoz o alejado.

Introduction: rectal prolapse is an invagination of the rectum that produces its exteriorization through the anus. It is called complete when it is constituted by the whole thickness of the rectal wall. Factors such as female sex, elderly patients and childbirth are linked to its incidence. Etiopathogenesis: it is multifactorial, and several theories have been put forward. Among them, an abnormally deep peritoneal rectal vaginal or rectal vesical fornix, the lack of normal fixation of the rectum to its bed, the consequence of an idiopathic invagination of the upper part of the rectum and a state of relaxation and atony of the muscles of the pelvic floor and the anal canal. Case report: female, 64 years old. Complete rectal prolapse due to weakness of the pelvic floor muscles and anal canal. The diagnostic evaluation and preoperative paraclinical examinations are presented. The Delorme procedure is described as a technical solution to her rectal prolapse. It is emphasized that the patient evolved favorably. Conclusions: The goal of treatment is to resolve the prolapse and restore anorectal function without causing harmful effects. The prolapse presented by this patient is multifactorial and includes all of the following anomalies, affects elderly and multiparous women, is permanently externalized and is part of a diffuse degenerative disease of the perineum. It was solved according to the Delorme procedure. The patient's evolution was satisfactory, no complications or recurrence were observed in the early or distant postoperative period.

Introdução: O prolapso retal é uma invaginação do reto que resulta em sua externalização através do ânus. É chamado completo quando consiste de toda a espessura da parede retal. Fatores como sexo feminino, pacientes mais velhos e parto estão ligados a sua incidência. Aetiopatogênese: é multifatorial, e várias teorias foram apresentadas. Estes incluem um fórnix peritoneal rectovaginal ou retal vesical anormalmente profundo, a falta de fixação normal do reto em seu leito, a conseqüência da invaginação idiopática da parte superior do reto e um estado de relaxamento e atonia dos músculos do assoalho pélvico e do canal anal. Relato de caso: mulher, 64 anos de idade. Prolapso retal completo devido à fraqueza dos músculos do assoalho pélvico e do canal anal. São apresentados a avaliação diagnóstica e os exames paraclínicos pré-operatórios. O procedimento Delorme é descrito como uma solução técnica para seu prolapso retal. Observa-se que o paciente evoluiu favoravelmente. Conclusões: O objetivo do tratamento é resolver o prolapso e restaurar a função anorretal sem causar efeitos nocivos. O prolapso apresentado por esta paciente é multifatorial e inclui todas as seguintes anomalias, afeta mulheres idosas e multíparas, é externalizado permanentemente e faz parte de uma doença degenerativa difusa do períneo. Foi tratado de acordo com o procedimento Delorme. A evolução do paciente foi satisfatória, não foram observadas complicações ou recidivas no período pós-operatório precoce ou distante.

Causes infectieuses de décompensation du diabète: « un prédateur infectieux se cache chez tout diabétique en Afrique¼ / Infectious causes of diabetes decompensation: "an infectious predator hides in any diabetic in Africa"

Introduction : Les infections survenant chez les sujets diabétiques ont été longtemps considérées comme une des causes de l'accroissement de la morbidité et de la mortalité. Elles représentent un motif de plus en plus fréquent d'admission dans le service de médecine interne du Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Thiès. Les mécanismes sont plus ou moins élucidés par l'influence de l'hyperglycémie sur les fonctions des polynucléaires neutrophiles. Le but de cette étude est de déterminer les particularités épidémiologiques des infections chez les diabétiques. Patients et Méthode : Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective avec recueil de données réalisée sur 24 mois (1er janvier 2016 au 31 décembre 2018) au service de Médecine Interne du Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Thiès. Cette étude incluait tous les patients diabétiques quel que soit le genre et le type de diabète, âgés de 15 ans et plus, présentant une infection comme facteur principal de décompensation. Résultats : Durant la période d'étude 2350 patients ont été hospitalisés dans le service de médecine interne dont 390 diabétiques. Parmi eux, 138 patients ont répondu à nos critères d'inclusion soit une prévalence de 35,38%. La moyenne d'âge de nos malades était de 53,49 ans ± 15,65 ans avec un sex-ratio H/F était de 0,70 en faveur des femmes (81 femmes contre 57 hommes). Les infections responsables de la décompensation étaient à localisation cutanéo-muqueuse (30,4%), pulmonaire (22,4%), uro-génitale (18,11%), buccodentaire (10,11%), ORL (1,44%), phanérienne (0,72%). Ailleurs, une infection aux pieds était retrouvée chez 43 patients soit 31,15% des cas. Plusieurs infections pouvaient être présentes chez un même malade. Le diabète était déséquilibré dans 86,2 % (n=94) des cas avec une HbA1c moyenne à 10, 5 % à l'admission Nous n'avons pas noté de corrélation entre l'infection et l'ancienneté du diabète (p =0, 60), l'infection et le type de diabète (p = 0,50) et paradoxalement entre l'infection et le déséquilibre du diabète (p=0,70). Conclusion : Le dépistage des infections chez le diabétique en déséquilibre chronique ou diabétique de novo doit être systématique car généralement ces infections peuvent être asymptomatiques.

Introduction: Infections in people with diabetes have long been considered one of the causes of increased morbidity and mortality. They represent an increasingly frequent reason for admission to the Department of Internal Medicine of the Regional and University Hospital of Thies. The mechanisms are more or less elucidated by the influence of hyperglycemia on neutrophil polynuclear functions. The purpose of this study is to determine the epidemiological characteristics of infections in diabetics. Method: This was a retrospective study with data collected over 24 months (1 January 2016 to 31 December 2018) at the Internal Medicine Department of the Regional and University Hospital of Thies. This study included all diabetic patients, regardless of gender and type of diabetes, aged 15 years and older, with an infection as the primary decompensation factor. Result: During the study period 2,350 patients were hospitalized in the Internal Medicine Department, 390 of whom were diabetic. Of these, 138 patients met our inclusion criteria, a prevalence of 35.38%. The average age of our patients was 53.49 years 15.65 years with a sex-ratio H/F was 0.70 in favor of women (81 Women versus 57 Men). The infections responsible for decompensation were dermal localization (30.4%), pulmonary (22.4%), urogenital (18.11%), oral (10.11%), ENT (1.44%), phanerian (0.72%). Elsewhere, a foot infection was found in 43 patients or 31.15% of cases. Several infections could be present in the same patient. Diabetes was unbalanced in 86.2% (n=94) of cases with an average HbA1c of 10.5% at admission We did not find a correlation between the infection and the age of diabetes (p =0, 60), the infection and the type of diabetes (p = 0.50), and paradoxically between the infection and the imbalance of diabetes (p = 0.70). Conclusion: The detection of infections in diabetics in chronic imbalance or de novo diabetics must be systematic because generally these infections can be asymptomatic.

Effect of varicocele repair on sperm retrieval rate and testicular histopathological patterns in men with nonobstructive azoospermia / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Varicocele adversely affects semen parameters. However, the effect of varicocele repair on the sperm retrieval rate and testicular histopathological patterns in men with nonobstructive azoospermia has not been widely reported. We retrospectively assessed the sperm retrieval rates and testicular histopathological patterns in men with nonobstructive azoospermia who were referred to the Urology Clinic in Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (Jakarta, Indonesia) and Bunda General Hospital (Jakarta, Indonesia) between January 2009 and December 2019. We compared patients who had undergone a surgical sperm retrieval procedure for assisted reproductive technology no earlier than three months after varicocele repair and those who had not undergone varicocele repair. The study included 104 patients (age range: 26-54 years), 42 of whom had undergone varicocele repair before the sperm retrieval procedure and 62 who had not. Motile spermatozoa were found in 29 (69.1%) and 17 (27.4%) patients who had undergone varicocele repair before the sperm retrieval procedure and those who had not undergone the repair, respectively (relative risk: 2.51; 95% confidence interval: 1.60-3.96; P < 0.001). A predicted probabilities graph showed consistently higher sperm retrieval rates for patients with varicocele repair, regardless of their follicle-stimulating hormone levels. Patients who underwent varicocele repair showed higher testicular histopathological patterns (P = 0.001). In conclusion, men with nonobstructive azoospermia and clinical varicocele who underwent varicocele repair before the sperm retrieval procedure had higher sperm retrieval rates compared to those who did not undergo varicocele repair.

Testosterone levels in patients with varicocele and azoospermia / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#Androgen deficiency is common in aging males and may have unfavourable health consequences. Large-scale studies suggested low testosterone level might increse mortality and morbidity in ageing males. However, young men with low testosterone level might be neglected. Recent studies reported young men with infertility may have reduced testosterone level. To investigate the incidence of androgen deficiency in males with infertility and possible factors affecting the low testosterone level.@*METHODS@#Between January 2011 and December 2012, 407 men with infertility caused by varicocele (VC), obstructive azoospermia (OA) and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) in our center were included. The number of men in each group of OA, NOA and VC was 141, 97 and 169, respectively. All the eligible patients underwent a serum testosterone assessment by a single morning blood draw (between 8:00 to noon) to test for concentration of the total testosterone. All serum samples were determined by radioimmunoassay in our andrology laboratory. Androgen deficiency was defined as having a total testosterone level less than 300 ng/dL.@*RESULTS@#The mean age was (30.4±5.8) years. The mean testosterone level was (4.18±1.64) ng/dL (range 0.30 to 11.32 ng/dL). The overall incidence of androgen deficiency was 26.5% (108/407). The incidences of androgen deficiency in NOA, OA and VC groups were 40.2% (39/97), 19.1% (27/141) and 24.9% (42/169), respectively, which were significantly higher in the NOA than in the VC and OA groups (P < 0.001). The incidences had no difference between the VC and OA groups (P=0.229). Univariate analysis revealed the cause of infertility, FSH and the mean testis volume as possible affecting factors for androgen deficiency. However, on multivariate analysis the only cause of infertility was an independent predictor. The incidence of androgen deficiency was the highest in the NOA group [OR 0.492 (95% confidence interval 0.288-0.840)].@*CONCLUSION@#NOA and varicocele might be risk factors of androgen deficiency. Young men with NOA may have a higher possibility of low testosterone level. Testosterone level should be followed up after NOA and varicocele treatment. Androgen deficiency should be assessed in males with infertility in clinical practice.

The value of repeat kidney biopsy in lupus nephritis. A systematic review / La utilidad de la biopsia renal repetida en nefritis lúpica. Una revisión sistemática

ABSTRACT A renal biopsy is the 'gold standard' for diagnosis and classification of lupus nephritis (LN). The role of repeat renal biopsy in lupus nephritis (LN) to guide treatment or predict prognosis has been controversial. A systematic literature review was conducted based on retrospective and prospective studies. The studies were identified using English electronic scientific databases, including MEDLINE PUBMED, published between January 1990 and August 2020. The eligibility criteria were studies including adult LN patients with at least one follow-up renal biopsy with appropriate longitudinal information. Case reports, studies with incomplete information or including duplicate patients were excluded. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 73 publications were identified. This study included a total of 1167 repeat biopsies in LN patients from 15 studies. The primary indication for a repeat biopsy was relapse in 44-78% of the cases, and lack of response in 13-51%. Additionally, several repeat biopsies were done according to the protocol, after induction and maintenance therapy. In terms of histopathological class switches, there was a higher frequency of changes from nonproliferative to proliferative lesions. Only two studies provide a definition of histological response. There were often changes in the therapeutic approach after a repeat biopsy. Repeat kidney biopsies are helpful in patients with LN flare/relapse, and in patients with poor treatment response. Histological transformation was a common finding. The histologic and clinical responses are discordant. A repeat biopsy could be of prognostic value for therapeutic decision-making.

RESUMEN La biopsia renal es el «estándar de oro¼ para el diagnóstico y la clasificación de la nefritis lúpica (NL). El papel de la biopsia renal repetida en nefritis lúpica para orientar el tratamiento o predecir el pronóstico ha sido controversial. Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática de la literatura basada en estudios retrospectivos y prospectivos. Los estudios se identificaron a través de bases de datos científicas electrónicas en inglés, incluyendo Medline PubMed, de publicaciones entre enero de 1990 y agosto del 2020. Los criterios de elegibilidad fueron estudios que incluyeran a pacientes adultos con NL, quienes tuvieran al menos una biopsia renal de seguimiento, con información longitudinal apropiada. Se excluyeron informes de casos, estudios con información incompleta o con pacientes duplicados. Basándose en los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, se identificaron 73 publicaciones. En la presente revisión se analizaron un total de 1.167 biopsias repetidas en pacientes con NL en 15 estudios. Las principales indicaciones para la biopsia repetida fueron: recidiva en 44-78% de los casos, y falta de respuesta en 13-51%. Adicionalmente, varias biopsias repetidas se hicieron conforme al protocolo, luego de la terapia de inducción y de mantenimiento. Con respecto a los cambios de clase histopatológica, hubo una mayor frecuencia de cambios de lesiones no proliferativas a lesiones proliferativas. Solamente dos estudios ofrecen una definición de respuesta histológica. Con frecuencia hubo cambios en el abordaje terapéutico después de realizar la biopsia repetida. Las biopsias renales repetidas son útiles en pacientes con exacerbación/recidiva y en pacientes con falta de respuesta a tratamiento. La transformación histológica fue un hallazgo frecuente; las respuestas histológicas y clínicas son discordantes. Una biopsia repetida puede ser de valor pronóstico para la toma de decisiones terapéuticas.

Understanding tubulointerstitial injury and repair mechanisms paves the way for renal outcome improvement in lupus nephritis / Entender la lesión tubulointersticial y los mecanismos de reparación será la vía para mejorar los desenlaces renales en nefritis lúpica

ABSTRACT Despite improvements in patient survival and quality of life, long-term renal survival has not changed significantly in the recent decades and nephritis relapses affect over 50% of patients with lupus nephritis. Renal fibrosis affecting the tubulointerstitial compartment is a central determinant of the prognosis of any kidney disease. Notwithstanding this evidence, the current 2003 ISN/RPS classification still focuses on glomerular pathology and does not include a mandatory score with clear subcategories of the tubulointerstitial injury in the biopsy. The pathogenesis, and the morphological and molecular characteristics of this process in patients with lupus nephritis will be considered, together with a discussion about the concepts the clinician needs to efficiently address in this injury during daily practice and in future clinical trials. Both tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis are strongly correlated with poor renal outcomes in lupus nephritis, regardless of the extent of glomerular damage. Therefore, it is essential to develop reliable and noninvasive approaches to predict which patients are most likely to develop CKD so that appropriate interventions can be adopted before ESRD is established. Currently, no ideal method for monitoring kidney fibrosis exists, since repeated renal biopsies are invasive. Promising methods for assessing and monitoring fibrosis non-invasively include imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging or ex vivo confocal microscopy, integrated in computational and digital pathology techniques. Finally, beyond specific immunosuppressive treatment in Lupus Nephritis, identifying and treating cardiovascular risk factors should be a cornerstone of treatment in these patients.

RESUMEN A pesar de las mejoras en la sobrevida de los pacientes y su calidad de vida, la sobrevida renal en el largo plazo no ha cambiado significativamente durante las últimas décadas, y las recidivas nefríticas afectan a más del 50% de los pacientes con nefritis lúpica. La fibrosis renal, que afecta el compartimiento tubulointersticial, es un factor determinante central en el pronóstico de todas las patologías renales. A pesar de la evidencia, la actual clasificación ISN/RPS del 2003 todavía se concentra en la patología glomerular y no incluye un score obligatorio con claras subcategorías de la lesión tubulointersticial en la biopsia. Se hablará de la patogenia y las características morfológicas y moleculares de este proceso en pacientes con nefritis lúpica, así como de los conceptos que el clínico necesita para abordar esta lesión de manera eficiente en su práctica cotidiana y en los estudios clínicos a futuro. Tanto la inflamación tubulointersticial como la fibrosis se relacionan fuertemente con desenlaces renales pobres en la nefritis lúpica, con independencia de la extensión del dañío glomerular. Resulta por lo tanto esencial desarrollar sistemas confiables y no invasivos para predecir cuáles pacientes tendrán mayor probabilidad de desarrollar enfermedad renal crónica, a fin de realizar las intervenciones apropiadas antes de que se establezca la enfermedad renal terminal (ERT). En la actualidad, no existe un método ideal para monitorear la fibrosis renal, dado que las biopsias repetidas son procedimientos invasivos. Algunos de los métodos promisorios para evaluar y monitorear la fibrosis de manera no invasiva son las técnicas de imágenes, tales como la resonancia magnética o la microscopía confocal ex vivo, integradas en técnicas de patología computarizadas y digitales. Finalmente, más allá del tratamiento inmunosupresor específico para la nefritis lúpica, identificar y tratar los factores de riesgo cardiovascular deberá ser uno de los pilares de tratamiento en estos pacientes.

Agreement between biopsy and renal function in pediatric patients with lupus nephritis. A retrospective study / Acuerdo entre biopsia y función renal en pacientes pediátricos con nefritis lúpica. Un estudio retrospectivo

ABSTRACT Introduction: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a consequence of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Renal biopsy is a potential prognostic biomarker for renal function. Objective: To correlate histopathological findings and renal function in children with LN. Materials and methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on children with a histopathological diagnosis of NL. Patients with no follow-up registered were excluded. The kidney biopsy at diagnosis was evaluated using the ISN/RPS scale. The Kappa index was used to determine the level of agreement between renal failure (Glomerular Filtration Rate [GFR] < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and presence or absence of each index on the modified ISN/RPS scale. Results: A total of 57 patients with NL were treated from 2011 to 2018 at the institution. Of these, 40 (70%) met inclusion criteria, and 10 (25%) were male. The median age of NL diagnosis was 12.9 years (IQR, 11.1-14.9). Follow-up time was 2.3 years (IQR, 1.0-5.16). At diagnosis, karyorrhexis was the characteristic with highest level of agreement with renal failure (k = 0.1873 SE = 0.0759 P = .0068) and at the last follow-up, it was global segmental sclerosis (k = 0.1481 SE = 0.078 P = .0287). There was no difference in the GFR at the last follow-up and the presence of proteinuria at diagnosis (P = .3936). Conclusion: Renal biopsy findings may be an insufficient tool to predict renal function. Treat ment and prognosis of patients with NL should be done using other biomarkers and clinical signs. Prospective studies should be performed to confirm this hypothesis.

RESUMEN Introducción: La nefritis lúpica (NL) es una consecuencia del lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES). La biopsia renal es un potencial biomarcador de pronóstico de función renal. Objetivo: Correlacionar hallazgos histopatológicos y la función renal de los pacientes pediátricos con la NL. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico histopatológico de NL. Se excluyeron pacientes sin seguimiento por la institución. Se evaluó la biopsia renal al diagnóstico con la escala modificada de la International Society of Nephrology and the Renal Pathology Society (ISN/RPS). Se usó el índice kappa para determinar el nivel de acuerdo entre la falla renal (tasa de filtración glomerular [TFG] < 60 mL/min/1,73 m2) y la presencia o ausencia de cada índice de la escala modificada de la ISN/RPS. Resultados: Entre el 2011 y el 2018, 57 pacientes con NL fueron atendidos en la institución, 40 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión, 10 (25%) eran de sexo masculino. La mediana de edad de diagnóstico de NL fue 12,9 arios (IQR 11,1 a 14,9). El tiempo de seguimiento fue de 2,3 años (IQR 1,0 a 5,16). Al diagnóstico, la cariorexis fue la característica de la escala con mayor nivel de acuerdo con la falla renal (k = 0,1873, EE = 0,0759, p = 0,0068) y al último seguimiento lo fue la esclerosis segmentaria global (k = 0,1481, EE = 0,078, p = 0,0287). No hubo diferencia en la TFG al último seguimiento y presencia de proteinuria al diagnóstico (p = 0,3936). Conclusión: La biopsia renal puede ser insuficiente para evaluar la predicción de la función renal. El tratamiento de pacientes con NL debe realizarse utilizando otros biomarcadores y signos clínicos. Deben hacerse estudios prospectivos que puedan confirmar esta hipótesis.

Desenlaces obstétricos en pacientes con arteritis de Takayasu: serie de casos / Pregnancy outcomes in patients with Takayasu's arteritis: Case series

RESUMEN Objetivo: La actividad y el riesgo de recaída de la arteritis de Takayasu son bajos durante la gestación. Hasta el 40% de las pacientes puede tener desenlaces obstétricos desfavorables, por lo que es importante conocer su comportamiento clínico. Describimos las características clínicas y el desenlace obstétrico de gestantes con arteritis de Takayasu atendidas en un hospital de alta complejidad. Materiales y métodos: Evaluación retrospectiva de historias clínicas de gestantes con arteritis de Takayasu atendidas en el Hospital Universitario San Vicente Fundación de Medellín, Colombia, entre 2011 y 2018. Resultados: Se incluyó en el estudio a 6 pacientes con mediana de edad al diagnóstico de 17,5 arios (RI 9,25), al parto de 24 arios (RI 8,25) y con una duración de la enfermedad de 5,5 arios (RI 10,5). Del total, 3 pacientes tenían compromiso aórtico extenso; al parto, 3 pacientes esta ban activas y requirieron inmunosupresores, 5 tenían hipertensión arterial, una desarrolló preeclampsia en el segundo trimestre, una tenía insuficiencia mitral y tricuspídea grave con disminución de la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo; 2 tenían aneurismas (arte ria subclavia izquierda y aorta ascendente). Ningún embarazo resultó en aborto ni parto pretérmino; hubo 2 óbitos fetales, uno por restricción del crecimiento intrauterino e insuficiencia placentaria, y otro de etiología desconocida; ambas pacientes con actividad de la enfermedad, afección aórtica extensa e hipertensión arterial. Fueron por cesárea 5 par tos por indicación materna; no hubo disección aórtica, rotura aneurismática ni hemorragia cerebral. Conclusión: Las pacientes con enfermedad activa y afección aórtica extensa presentaron resultados obstétricos desfavorables, lo que indica que el inadecuado control de la vasculitis genera mayores complicaciones materno-fetales.

ABSTRACT Objective: The activity and risk of relapse of Takayasu's arteritis are low during pregnancy. Up to 40% of patients may have unfavorable obstetric outcomes therefore it is important to know their clinical behavior. We describe the clinical characteristics and obstetric outcome of pregnant women with Takayasu arteritis treated in a hospital of high complexity. Materials and methods: A retrospective evaluation of medical records of pregnant patients with Takayasu's arteritis treated at Hospital Universitario San Vicente Fundación in Medellin, Colombia between 2011 and 2018. Results: Six patients with a median age at diagnosis 17.5 (RI 9.25) years, at delivery 24 (RI 8.25) years, disease duration 5.5 (RI 10.5) years. Three patients had extensive aortic involvement; at delivery, 3 patients were active and required immunosuppressants, 5 had high blood pres sure, one developed preeclampsia in the second trimester, one had severe mitral and tricus pid insufficiency with a decreased ejection fraction of the left ventricle; 2 had aneurysms (left subclavian artery and ascending aorta). No pregnancy resulted in abortion or preterm birth; there were 2 fetal deaths, one due to intrauterine growth restriction and placental insuffi ciency and another of unknown etiology; both patients with disease activity, extensive aortic condition, and arterial hypertension. Five deliveries were by cesarean section by maternal indication; there was no aortic dissection, aneurysmal rupture or cerebral hemorrhage. Conclusion: Patients with active disease and extensive aortic compromise presented unfa vorable obstetric results, suggesting that inadequate control of vasculitis leads to greater maternal-fetal complications.

Oxidative origin of sperm DNA fragmentation in the adult varicocele

ABSTRACT Purpose: Sperm DNA fragmentation is a major cellular mechanism underlying varicocele-related male infertility. However, the type of DNA fragmentation - whether oxidative or of another nature - remains unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate single- and double-stranded sperm DNA fragmentation, and oxidative-induced sperm DNA damage in men with varicocele. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed, including 94 normozoospermic adults, of which 39 men without varicocele (controls) and 55 men with varicocele grades II or III, uni- or bilaterally. All men collected semen by masturbation. After semen analysis, the remaining volume was used for evaluation of three types of sperm DNA damage: (i) total DNA fragmentation, using an alkaline comet assay, (ii) double-stranded DNA fragmentation, using a neutral comet assay, and (iii) oxidative DNA damage, using an alkaline comet assay associated with the DNA glycosylase formamidopyrimidine enzyme. In each assay, percentage of sperm with any degree of DNA fragmentation, and with high DNA fragmentation were compared between the groups using an unpaired Student's t test or a Mann-Whitney test. Results: The varicocele group presented a higher rate of sperm with fragmented DNA (both any and high DNA fragmentation), considering single-stranded DNA fragmentation, double-stranded DNA fragmentation, or a combination of both, as well as oxidative- induced DNA fragmentation. Conclusions: Patients with varicocele have an increase in sperm DNA fragmentation levels, particularly in oxidative stress-induced sperm DNA damage.

The association between body mass index and varicocele: A meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Objective: Recently, several studies have found that obesity had a protective effect against varicocele, but no meta-analysis has confirmed this finding. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and varicocele. Material and Methods: We searched for studies in PubMed, Science Direct and the Cochrane Library from inception until February 2018. The association between BMI and varicocele was assessed by pooling the odds ratios (ORs). Results: Eleven eligible studies with a total study population of 1.376.658 participants were included in our analysis. According to BMI, the subjects were defined as belonging to the obese, overweight and underweight groups. Our results showed that the obese group had a lower risk of varicocele when compared with the normal weight group (odds ratio [OR] 0.46, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] 0.37-0.58). Additionally, an overweight BMI had a protective effect against varicocele (OR 0.70, 95% CIs, 0.56-0.86). However, underweight patients had a more than 30% higher risk of varicocele (OR 1.31, 95% CI, 1.04-1.64). Furthermore, there was no publication bias in any of the analyses. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that BMI is negatively associated with the presence of varicocele.