Chemical Angioplasty with Nitroglycerin for Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Case Series and Review

Introduction Vasospasm is a common and potentially devastating complication in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, causing high morbidity and mortality. There is no effective and consistent way to prevent or treat cerebral vasospasm capable of altering the morbidity and mortality of this complication. Animal and human studies have attempted to show improvement in aneurysmal vasospasm. Some sought their prevention; others, the treatment of already installed vasospasm. Some achieved only angiographic improvement without clinical correlation, others achieved both, but with ephemeral duration or at the expense of very harmful associated effects. Endovascular techniques allow immediate and aggressive treatment of cerebral vasospasm and include methods such as mechanical and chemical angioplasty. These methods have risks and benefits. Objectives To analyze the results of chemical angioplasty using nitroglycerin (GTN). In addition, to performa comprehensive review and analysis of aneurysmal vasospasm. Methods We describe our series of 77 patients treated for 8 years with angioplasty for vasospasm, either mechanical (with balloon), chemical (with GTN) or both. Results Eleven patients received only balloon; 37 received only GTN; 29 received both. Forty-four patients (70.1%) evolved with delayed cerebral ischemia and 19 died (mortality of 24.7%). Two deaths were causally related to the rupture of the vessel by the balloon. The only predictors of poor outcome were the need for external ventricular drainage in the first hours of admission, and isolated mechanical angioplasty. Conclusions Balloon angioplasty has excellent results, but it is restricted to proximal vessels and is not without complications. Chemical angioplasty using nitroglycerin has reasonable but short-lived results and further research is needed about it. It is restricted to vasospasm angioplasties only in hospitals, like ours, where better and more potent vasodilator agents are not available.

Comparison of the apoptotic effects of topically applied papaverine, diltiazem, and nitroprusside to internal thoracic artery

Abstract Objective: To detect and to compare the apoptotic effects of intraoperatively topically applied diltiazem, papaverine, and nitroprusside. Methods: Internal thoracic artery segments of ten patients were obtained during coronary bypass grafting surgery. Each internal thoracic artery segment was divided into four pieces and immersed into four different solutions containing separately saline (Group S), diltiazem (Group D), papaverine (Group P), and nitroprusside (Group N). Each segment was examined with both hematoxylin-eosin and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method in order to determine and quantify apoptosis. Results: Apoptotic cells were counted in 50 microscopic areas of each segment. No significant difference was observed among the four groups according to hematoxylin-eosin staining. However, the TUNEL method revealed a significant increase in mean apoptotic cells in the diltiazem group when compared with the other three groups (Group S=4.25±1.4; Group D=13.31±2.8; Group N=9.48±2.09; Group P=10.75±2.37). The differences between groups were significant (P=0.0001). No difference was observed between the samples of the diabetic and non-diabetic patients in any of the study groups. Conclusion: The benefit of topically applied vasodilator drugs must outweigh the potential adverse effects. In terms of apoptosis, diltiazem was found to have the most deleterious effects on internal thoracic artery graft segments. Of the analyzed medical agents, nitroprusside was found to have the least apoptotic activity, followed by papaverine. Diabetes did not have significant effect on the occurrence of apoptosis in left internal thoracic artery grafts.

Uso de sildenafil para la hipertensión pulmonar en neonatos / Use of sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension in neonates

Resumen La hipertensión arterial pulmonar es una enfermedad multifactorial que incrementa la mortalidad en el neonato como consecuencia de falla cardiaca. Los vasodilatadores pulmonares son la piedra angular del tratamiento, de los cuales el sildenafil es el fármaco más empleado. A continuación, se resumen los resultados de una revisión sistemática Cochrane en la que se evaluaron la eficacia y la seguridad del sildenafil para el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial pulmonar en neonatos.

Abstract Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a multifactorial nosological entity that increases neonatal mortality as a result of heart failure. Pulmonary vasodilators are the cornerstone of treatment, of which sildenafil is the most commonly used drug. Therefore, the results of a recently updated Cochrane systematic review are summarized, in which the efficacy and safety of sildenafil for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension in neonates was evaluated.

Curcuma Longa Abolishes Phenylephrine-Induced Contractions in Isolated Aortic Artery of Rats

Curcuma longa has biological effects. Its cardiovascular activities are yet to be scientifically studied. Objectives: To investigate the vasorelaxant effects of the aqueous extract of Curcuma longa (AECL). Methods: Aortic annuli of normotensive rats, with or without endothelium, were set up in a data storage system with nutrient solution in recipients, with scientifically recommended temperature, aeration and tension. Over contraction by Phenylephrine, the AECL (1, 3, 10, 30, 100, 300 and 1000 µg/mL) was incubated before and after incubation with atropine or L-name or indomethacin. An AECL concentration-response curve was also built over contractions caused by elevation of extracellular K+. Data were significant when p < 0.05, with GraphPad Prism 6.0 software resolutions. Results: The AECL induced 100% vasorelaxation also in the endothelium-free annuli. The part of the endothelium-dependent effect had EC50 = 4.32 ± 0.05 µg/mL. With inhibition of NO production, the EC50 increased to 126.50 ± 2.35 µg/mL; after inhibition of prostacyclin production, to 124.6 ± 0.05 µg/mL; and after muscarinic blockade, to 437.10 ± 0.2 µg/mL. Opening of K+ channels (relaxation of 56.98%) and VOCC blockade (relaxation of 31.56%) were evident. Conclusion: AECL induced significant vasorelaxation, being more significant in the presence of endothelium. The muscarinic pathway seems to be the main one involved in this effect, followed by the NO production and prostacyclin pathways. The activity in K+ channels by AECL was more significant than its VOCC blockade. The use of other models and tools to study action mechanisms will be important and elucidating

Vasculopatia livedoide tratada com rivaroxabana / Livedoid vasculopathy treated with rivaroxaban

A vasculopatia livedoide é uma doença rara caracterizada pela oclusão da microvasculatura da derme, originando lesões maculosas que, posteriormente, podem evoluir para úlceras e cicatrizes atróficas. Como um fenômeno vaso-oclusivo, o tratamento geralmente é realizado com antiplaquetários e fibrinolíticos. O presente relato descreve o caso de uma paciente refratária à terapia convencional, que obteve regressão da doença utilizando a rivaroxabana, um fármaco inibidor seletivo do fator Xa. (AU)

Livedoid vasculopathy is a rare disease characterized by occlusion of the dermis microvasculature, leading to spotted lesions that can later develop into ulcers and atrophic scars. As a vaso- occlusive phenomenon, treatment is usually performed with antiplatelet and fibrinolytic agents. The present report describes the case of a female patient refractory to conventional therapy who presented disease remission using rivaroxaban, a selective factor Xa inhibitor drug. (AU)

Insuficiência cardíaca aguda (ICA) - decisão terapêutica: inotrópicos ou vasodilatadores? / Therapeutic decision in acute heart failure: inotropic agents or vasodilator drugs?

A insuficiência cardíaca aguda é a principal causa de hospitalização em pacientes acima de 65 anos, além de possuir altos índices de mortalidade hospitalar. Na sua abordagem terapêutica é mandatório um diagnóstico rápido e pronta caracterização do perfil hemodinâmico, baseando-se nos sinais clínicos de congestão e baixo débito cardíaco, para que possamos instituir a terapêutica com drogas endovenosas para alívio rápido dos sintomas, restabelecer a perfusão adequada dos órgãos e reduzir o risco de morte. As drogas a serem administradas de forma isolada ou em combinação são representadas pela furosemida endovenosa em infusão intermitente e contínua, dependendo do grau de congestão pulmonar e/ou sistêmica, as drogas vasodilatadoras e os agentes inotrópicos. As drogas vasodilatadoras, como o nitroprussiato de sódio e a nitroglicerina via endovenosa são, frequentemente, adicionadas aos diuréticos para o tratamento da insuficiência cardíaca aguda com perfil hemodinâmico B, promovendo estabilidade hemodinâmica mais rápida e pronto alívio da dispneia. O nitroprussiato de sódio é preferível nos pacientes com IC perfil B com níveis elevados de resistência vascular periférica e grave congestão pulmonar. Já a nitroglicerina é preferível nos pacientes com cardiopatia isquêmica ou com insuficiência coronariana aguda associada à insuficiência cardíaca. Os agentes inotrópicos positivos estão indicados nos pacientes com IC aguda e evidências de baixo débito cardíaco (perfil hemodinâmico C), a fim de garantir a melhora da perfusão tissular mediante aumento do débito cardíaco, principalmente, nos pacientes hipotensos e com piora da função renal. A associação de inotrópicos com vasodilatadores deve ser considerada quando existe a combinação de baixo débito cardíaco e aumento significativo de resistência vascular pulmonar e ou sistêmica

Acute heart failure is the leading cause of hospitalization in patients over 65 years of age and is accompanied by high hospital mortality rates. In its therapeutic approach, rapid diagnosis and prompt characterization of the hemodynamic profile based on clinical signs of congestion and low cardiac output are mandatory so that we can provide intravenous drug therapy for rapid symptom relief to restore adequate organ perfusion and reduce the risk of death. Drugs to be used alone or in combination are represented by intravenous furosemide in intermittent infusion and continue to depend on the degree of pulmonary and/or systemic congestion, vasodilator drugs, and inotropic agents. Vasodilator drugs, such as sodium nitroprusside and intravenous nitroglycerin, are often added to diuretics for the treatment of acute cardiac insufficiency with hemodynamic profile B, promoting faster hemodynamic stability and prompt relief of dyspnea. Sodium nitroprusside is preferable in patients with hemodynamic profile B with high peripheral vascular resistance and severe pulmonary congestion. Nitroglycerin is preferable in patients with ischemic heart disease or acute coronary insufficiency associated with heart failure (HF). Positive inotropic agents are indicated in patients with acute HF and evidence of low cardiac output (hemodynamic profile C) to ensure improvement in tissue perfusion by increasing cardiac output, especially in patients with hypotension and worsening renal function. The association of inotropes and vasodilators should be considered when there is a combination of low cardiac output and significant increase in pulmonary and/or systemic vascular resistance

Crises hipertensivas: definindo a gravidade e o tratamento / Hipertensive crises: defining he severity and treatment

As situações clínicas de aumento súbito da pressão arterial (PA) que caracterizam as crises hipertensivas são comuns na prática clínica, principalmente nas consultas realiza-das no pronto atendimento, portanto, o diagnóstico adequado é essencial para o melhor tratamento e desfecho clínico. A crise hipertensiva é definida pelo aumento súbito na PA (≥180 /120 mmHg) e a necessidade da redução agressiva da PA depende da gravidade da situação clinica associada. A presença de lesões novas ou progressivas em órgãos-alvo e risco iminente de morte definem as emergências hipertensivas que requerem tratamento imediato visando a rápida redução da pressão arterial, porém, não, necessariamente, a níveis normais. Na maioria dos casos, a velocidade do aumento da PA é mais importante que o nível real da PA, portanto, é fundamental que haja avaliação clínica para o diagnóstico preciso dessas condições clínicas, as quais incluem encefalopatia hipertensiva, síndromes coronarianas agudas, edema agudo dos pulmões, acidente vascular cerebral, dissecção de aorta e eclampsia. As metas para diminuição da PA para as emergências hipertensivas, de acordo com o órgão-alvo envolvido, são revisadas pelas atuais diretrizes brasileiras e ame-ricanas de hipertensão. O tratamento das emergências hipertensivas inclui vasodilatadores de ação direta e bloqueadores adrenérgicos já consagrados, entretanto, evidências recentes mostram o benefício do uso de novos fármacos ainda não disponíveis em nosso meio

The clinical conditions of an acute rise in blood pressure (BP) that characterize hyperten-sive crises are common in clinical practice, particularly in consultations that take place in the emergency room. Therefore the correct diagnosis is important for the best treatment and clinical outcome. Hypertensive crisis is defined as a sudden rise in BP (≥ 180/120 mmHg), and the need for aggressive reduction of BP depends on the severity of the associated clinical situation. The presence of new or progressive target organ injury and imminent risk of death define hypertensive emergencies requiring immediate treatment aimed at rapid reduction of blood pressure, not ne-cessarily to normal levels. In most cases, the speed of the rise in BP is more important than the actual level of BP, and clinical evaluation is essential for the accurate diagnosis of these clinical conditions, which include hypertensive encephalopathy, acute coronary syndromes, pulmonary edema, stroke, aortic dissection, and eclampsia. The goals of BP reduction for hypertensive emergencies, according to the target organ involved, have been reviewed by the current Brazi-lian and American guidelines on hypertension. Treatment of hypertensive emergencies includes direct action vasodilators and adrenergic blockers, which are already well established, but recent evidence shows the benefit of the use of new drugs, not yet available in Brazil

Hipertensión pulmonar asociada al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en pediatría: tratamiento con sildenafil. A propósito de un caso / Pulmonary hypertension associated with the human immunodeficiency virus in children: treatment with sildenafil. A case report

La hipertensión pulmonar asociada a la infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana es una enfermedad sumamente infrecuente en pediatría, por lo que requiere alta sospecha clínica para llegar a su diagnóstico. Su aparición es de pronóstico desfavorable, pero el diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento específico pueden mejorar su evolución. Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente de 15 años con diagnóstico de infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana de transmisión vertical, sin tratamiento antirretroviral, con tos y disnea de esfuerzo progresiva asociadas a signos de falla cardíaca derecha en el cual se diagnosticó hipertensión pulmonar grave. Luego de descartarse otras causas, se asumió la hipertensión pulmonar asociada a la infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana. Se realizó el tratamiento con sildenafil y presentó buena respuesta.

Pulmonary hypertension associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection is an extremely rare disease in pediatrics; it requires a high clinical suspicion to reach a diagnosis. Its appearance poses an unfavorable prognostic, but early diagnosis and specific treatment can improve outcomes. We report the clinical case of a fifteen-year-old patient diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus infection of vertical transmission, without antiretroviral treatment, with cough and progressive exertional dyspnea, associated with signs of right heart failure in which severe pulmonary hypertension was diagnosed. After discarding other causes, it was assumed pulmonary hypertension associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection. Treatment was performed with sildenafil with good response.

The protective effect of Papaverine and Alprostadil in rat testes after ischemia and reperfusion injury

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the effect of papaverine and alprostadil on testicular torsion-detorsion injury in rats. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 male Wistar-Albino rats were used in this study. Four hours of right testicular torsion was applied to each group, excluding sham oper- ated group. The torsion-detorsion (T/D), T/D + papaverine and T/D + alprostadil groups received saline, papaverine and alprostadil at the same time as surgical detorsion, respectively. At 14 days after the surgical detorsion, ischaemic changes and the degree of damage were evaluated with Cosentino scoring and the Johnson tubular biopsy score (JTBS). Results: JTBS was determined as 8.8±2.7 in the Sham group, 5.08±1.9 in the T/D+papaverine group, 5.29±2.3 in the T/D +alprostadil group and 2.86±1.9 in the TD group. The JTBS was determined to be statistically significantly high in both the T/D + papaverine group and the T/D + alprostadil group compared to the T/D group (p=0.01, p=0.009). In the T/D + papaverine group, 3 (43%) testes were classified as Cosentino 2, 3 (43%) as Cosentino 3 and 1 (14%) as Cosentino 4. In the T/D +alprostadil group, 5 (50 %) testes were classified as Cosentino 2, 3 (30 %) as Cosentino 3 and 2 (20%) as Cosentino 4. Conclusion: The present study indicated that spermatic cord administration of alprostadil and papaverine showed a protective effect against ischemia/reperfusion injury after right-side testes torsion and histological changes were decreased after testicular ischemia reperfusion injury.

The expression of endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthase and apoptosis in intestinal ischemia and reperfusion injury under the action of ischemic preconditioning and pentoxifylline

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and apoptosis associated with ischemic preconditioning (IPC) and pentoxifylline (PTX) in intestinal ischemia (I) and reperfusion (R) injury. Methods: Thirty male rats were assigned to 5 groups: (CG), no clamping of the superior mesenteric artery (90 minutes); (IR-SS) saline + ischemia (30 minutes) + reperfusion (60 minutes); (IR-PTX) PTX + ischemia (30 minutes) + reperfusion (60 minutes); (IPC-IR-SS) 5 minutes of ischemia + 5 minutes of reperfusion (IPC) + saline + I(30 minutes)+R(60 minutes); and (IPC-IR-PTX) IPC + PTX + I(30 minutes)+ R(60 minutes). Results: The application of IPC and PTX showed a significantly lower immunohistochemistry reaction for active caspase-3 (P<0.05) compared to IR+SS. The number of cells immunoreactive to BCL-2 was higher in the IR-PTX group (P>0.05). The NOS-2 expression (qRTPCR) in the IR-PTX group (P<0.05) was higher than the values for the IPC+IR-SS and IPC-IR-PTX groups. The NOS-3 expression was significantly upper in the IPC-IR-PTX group than in the CG (P<0.05), the IR-SS (P<0.05) and the IR-PTX (P<0.05) groups. Conclusions: The BCL-2 and active caspase-3 showed beneficial effects on PTX and IPC. The expression of NOS-2 and NOS-3 in the IPC and IPC-PTX groups showed no synergistic effect.

Tadalafil protector effect during ischemia-reperfusion in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate histological parameters in rat renal tissue after tadalafil use during hot ischemia for 45 minutes and reperfusion for 24 hours. Methods: Twenty rats were divided into 2 groups. In the experimental group 10 mg/kg of tadalafil was used per gavage before the procedure. All cases underwent left partial nephrectomy, followed by 45 minutes of warm ischemia. Left nephrectomy of the remaining kidney was performed after 24 hours from the initial procedure. The histological parameters analyzed were: detachment of tubular cells, accumulation of desquamated cells in the proximal tubule, loss of brush border, tubular cylinders, interstitial edema, leukocyte infiltration, capillary congestion, vacuolization, tubular dilatation, necrosis and collapse of the capillary tuft. Results: Two rats from each group died and were excluded from the study. Tadalafil significantly reduced leukocyte infiltration (p = 0.036). The remaining histological parameters did not show statistical difference between the groups. Conclusion: The use of tadalafil during warm ischemia and reperfusion demonstrates statistically significant reduction of leukocyte infiltration in the renal interstitium.

Cortical blindness secondary to posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, recovered by successful blood pressure management / Cegueira cortical secundária à síndrome de encefalopatia reversível posterior recuperada pelo controle bem sucedido da pressão arterial

ABSTRACT We report a case of cortical blindness secondary to posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, which was successfully treated by blood pressure management. A 66-year-old white man presented at the emergency room complaining of severe frontal headache, disorientation, and progressive blurred vision. The initial physical examination disclosed a blood pressure of 200/176 mmHg. One hour later the patient exhibited mental confusion and bilateral blindness. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed, and a systemic workup was conducted, resulting in a diagnosis of posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome. This syndrome is a rare manifestation of systemic hypertension that requires proper diagnosis and management to avoid irreversible brain damage. Early recognition of this condition and prompt control of the patient's blood pressure are essential because they may bring about a reversal of the syndrome, which may otherwise result in permanent brain damage.

RESUMO Relatamos um caso de cegueira cortical secundário à síndrome de leucoencefalopatia posterior recuperado pelo controle bem sucedido da pressão arterial. Um homem branco de 66 anos de idade compareceu à emergência com queixa de dor de cabeça frontal severa, desorientação e embaçamento progressivo da visão. O exame físico inicial revelou uma pressão arterial de 200/176 mmHg. Uma hora depois, o paciente apresentou confusão mental e cegueira bilateral. Após a tomografia e a ressonância nuclear magnética, o tratamento sistêmico foram realizados e o diagnóstico de síndrome da leucoencefalopatia posterior foi realizado. A síndrome de leucoencefalopatia posterior é uma manifestação rara de hipertensão sistêmica que requer um diagnóstico e gerenciamento adequados para evitar danos cerebrais irreversíveis. O reconhecimento precoce desta condição e o controle imediato da pressão arterial são essenciais porque podem levar à reversão da síndrome, o que, de outra forma, pode resultar em dano cerebral permanente.

The role of ischemic preconditioning and pentoxifylline in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury of rats

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the role of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) and pentoxifylline (PTX) in intestinal mucosa ischemia/reperfusion injury (IR). Methods: Thirty rats were assigned to 5 groups (N=6): (CG): no clamping of the superior mesenteric artery (90 min.); (IR-SS): saline + ischemia (30 min.) + reperfusion (60 min.); (IR-PTX): PTX + ischemia (30min.) + reperfusion (60 min.); (IPC-IR-SS): 5 min. of ischemia + 5 minutes of reperfusion (IPC) + saline + ischemia (30 min.) + reperfusion (60 min.); (IPC-IR-PTX ): 5 min. of ischemia + 5 min. of reperfusion (IPC) + PTX + 30 min. of I + 60 minutes of R. Results: The IR-PTX, IPC-IR-SS and IPC-IR-PTX groups had significantly lower scores of mucosa damage than the IR-SS group. IR-PTX group showed higher scores than the IPC-IR-PTX group, in accordance with the hypothesis of a favorable effect of IPC alone or in association with PTX. Additionally, IPC-IR-SS had a higher damage score than the IPC-IR-PTX. The villi height and crypt depth were similar in all groups. The villi height in the IR-SS was significantly lower. Conclusion: Ischemic preconditioning or pentoxifylline alone protect the intestinal mucosa from ischemia/reperfusion injury. However, they do not have a synergistic effect when applied together.

Validation of an instrument regarding nursing intervention in patients in vasoactive therapy / Validación de instrumentos para intervención de la enfermería en el paciente pasando por terapia vasoactiva / Validação de instrumento para intervenção de enfermagem ao paciente em terapia vasoativa

ABSTRACT Objective: to validate the content of a Standard Operational Procedure, regarding nursing interventions in emergency patients treated with vasoactive drugs. Method: methodological study, carried out from December 2015 to January 2016. Content validity was determined by 16 experts (13 nurses, 2 pharmacists and one biomedical scientist), who judged it through a four-point Likert scale. The items were evaluated in terms of: feasibility, objectivity, simplicity, clearness, pertinence and accuracy. The Content Validity Index was applied, accepting the value ≥ 0.90. Results: two rounds of evaluation were required to achieve the minimum index. The items were reviewed regarding writing, dilution, indication and replacement interval. The instrument was validated with 33 items and with total Content Validity Index of 0.99. Conclusion: the instrument was considered appropriate, fractionally and globally, for nursing care for the patient treated with vasoactive drugs in emergency, in a safe and reliable way.

RESUMEN Objetivo: validar el contenido del Procedimiento Operacional Estándar para la intervención de la enfermería en el paciente que usa fármacos vasoactivos en la emergencia. Método: estudio metodológico, realizado entre diciembre de 2015 y enero de 2016. La validación del contenido fue determinada mediante la escala tipo Likert de cuatro puntos por 16 jueces, de los cuales 13 eran enfermeros, dos farmacéuticos y uno biomédico. Los apartados se clasificaron en: ejecutabilidad, objetividad, simplicidad, claridad, pertinencia y precisión. Se aplicó el Índice de Validez de Contenido con la aceptación del valor ≥ 0,90. Resultados: se necesitaron dos rondas de validación para alcanzar el índice. Los apartados se alteraron en la redacción, la dilución, la indicación y el intervalo de cambio. El instrumento se validó con 33 tópicos y con Índice de Validez del Contenido total de 0,99. Conclusión: los resultados se consideran adecuados separadamente, y de manera global, para que el enfermero cuide del paciente usuario de fármacos vasoactivos de forma segura y confiable en la emergencia.

RESUMO Objetivo: validar o conteúdo do Procedimento Operacional Padrão, para intervenção de enfermagem ao paciente em uso de fármacos vasoativos na emergência. Método: estudo metodológico, realizado de dezembro de 2015 a janeiro de 2016. A validação de conteúdo deu-se por 16 juízes, sendo 13 enfermeiros, dois farmacêuticos e um biomédico, que o julgaram por meio da escala tipo Likert de quatro pontos. Os itens foram avaliados em: exequibilidade, objetividade, simplicidade, clareza, pertinência e precisão. Aplicou-se o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo, aceitando-se o valor ≥ 0,90. Resultados: foram necessárias duas rodadas de validação para atingir o índice. Os itens foram alterados: na redação, diluição, indicação, intervalo de troca. O instrumento foi validado com 33 itens e com Índice de Validade de Conteúdo total de 0,99. Conclusão: considerou-se adequado, separadamente, e de maneira global, para que o enfermeiro possa cuidar do paciente em uso de fármacos vasoativos na emergência, de forma segura e confiável.

Treatment of digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis: Case series study of thirteen patients and discussion on outcome / Tratamento de úlceras digitais na esclerose sistêmica: série de casos de 13 doentes e análise crítica dos resultados

Summary Introduction: In systemic sclerosis (SSc), digital ulcers (DU) are debilitating and recurrent. They are markers of prognosis and are associated with disability and mortality. Treatment strategies have been developed to block the proposed mechanisms of this complication. Objective: Clinical description of a population of SSc patients with DU, treatment, complications and outcome. Method: Analysis of 48 SSc patients meeting 2013 ACR-EULAR criteria, followed between 1999-2015; 13 patients had DU. Treatment protocol applied included cycles of 21 days of alprostadil, which can be repeated in the absence of DU healing. After DU healing, bosentan was initiated. Results: DU healing was achieved with intravenous prostanoid in 12 patients; seven patients required repeated treatment for DU healing. Twelve patients were later treated with bosentan; three of them experienced recurrence of DU, while one was anti-B2-GPI positive. Four patients had soft tissue loss and three other suffered digital amputation, these being late diagnosis. Conclusion: Younger patients and early referrals had better outcomes. Endothelin receptor antagonist toxicity should be monitored, particularly in patients previously exposed to hepatotoxic drugs.

Resumo Introdução: As úlceras digitais (UD) são complicações incapacitantes e recorrentes, associadas a menor qualidade de vida e maior mortalidade na esclerose sistêmica (ES). O tratamento baseia-se em antagonizar os mecanismos fisiopatológicos em causa. Objetivo: Descrever uma amostra de doentes com diagnóstico de ES e UD, o tratamento, as complicações e os resultados clínicos. Método: Série de 48 casos diagnosticados com ES, critérios de classificação ACR-EULAR 2013, seguidos entre 1999 e 2015, dos quais 13 apresentavam UD. O protocolo aplicado incluía ciclos de 21 dias de alprostadil podendo ser repetidos no caso de não existir cicatrização. Nos casos em que houve cicatrização foi iniciado bosentano. Resultados: No tratamento das UD, 12 doentes realizaram prostaciclina endovenosa, com necessidade de tratamentos repetidos em sete doentes. Doze doentes foram posteriormente tratados com bosentano, com recorrência de UD em três doentes, um deles com presença de anti-B2-GPI. Quatro doentes ficaram com cicatrizes e em três houve amputação digital, sendo casos de diagnóstico tardio. Conclusão: Os doentes mais jovens tiveram melhores resultados, possivelmente em razão de melhorias globais nos cuidados de saúde prestados e de referenciação precoce. A toxicidade dos antagonistas dos receptores da endotelina deve ser monitorizada, sobretudo em doentes com exposição prévia a drogas hepatotóxicas.

Levosimendan as a treatment for acute renal failure associated with cardiogenic shock after hip fracture / Levosimendana como tratamento para insuficiência renal aguda associada a choque cardiogênico após fratura de quadril

Abstract Inotropic drugs are part of the treatment of heart failure; however, inotropic treatment has been largely debated due to the increased incidence of adverse effects and increased mortality. Recently levosimendan, an inotropic positive agent, has been proved to be effective in acute heart failure, reducing the mortality and improving cardiac and renal performance. We report the case of a 75-year-old woman with history of heart and renal failure and hip fracture. Levosimendan was used in preoperative preparation as an adjuvant therapy, to improve cardiac and renal function and to allow surgery.

Resumo Fármacos inotrópicos fazem parte do tratamento de insuficiência cardíaca; no entanto, o tratamento com inotrópicos tem sido amplamente debatido devido ao aumento da incidência de efeitos adversos e da mortalidade. Recentemente, levosimendana, um agente inotrópico positivo, provou ser eficaz na insuficiência cardíaca aguda, reduz a mortalidade e melhora o desempenho cardíaco e renal. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente de 75 anos, com história de insuficiência cardíaca e renal e fratura de quadril. Levosimendana foi usada na preparação do pré-operatório como terapia adjuvante para melhorar a função cardíaca e renal e permitir a cirurgia.

Propranolol inhibits the proliferation, migration and tube formation of hemangioma cells through HIF-1α dependent mechanisms

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of propranolol on the regression of hemangiomas. Propranolol-treated hemangioma tissues were collected and the expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) was examined. We also established HIF-1α overexpression and knockdown hemangioma cells, and determined the effects of HIF-1α on the hemangioma cells proliferation, apoptosis, migration and tube formation. Significantly increased HIF-1α level was found in the hemangioma tissues compared to that in normal vascular tissues, whereas propranolol treatment decreased the HIF-1α level in hemangioma tissues in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Moreover, propranolol treatment significantly decreased cell proliferation, migration and tube formation as well as promoted cell apoptosis in HIF-1α overexpression and knockdown hemangioma cells. Propranolol suppressed the cells proliferation, migration and tube formation of hemangioma cells through HIF-1α dependent mechanisms. HIF-1α could serve as a novel target in the treatment of hemangiomas.

Impact of Diltiazem Alone versus Diltiazem with Nitrate on Five-Year Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Significant Coronary Artery Spasm

PURPOSE: Calcium channel blockers diltiazem and nitrate have been used as selective coronary vasodilators for patients with significant coronary artery spasm (CAS). However, no study has compared the efficacy of diltiazem alone versus diltiazem with nitrate for long-term clinical outcomes in patients with CAS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 2741 consecutive patients without significant coronary artery disease with positive CAS by acetylcholine (Ach) provocation test between November 2004 and May 2014 were enrolled. Significant CAS was defined as a narrowing of >70% by incremental intracoronary injection of 20, 50, and 100 µg of Ach into the left coronary artery. Patients were assigned to either the diltiazem group (n=842) or the dual group (diltiazem with nitrate, n=1899) at physician discretion. To adjust for potential confounders, a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed using the logistic regression model. After PSM analysis, two well-balanced groups (811 pairs, n=1622, C-statistic=0.708) were generated. RESULTS: At 5 years, there were similar incidences in primary endpoints, including mortality, myocardial infarction, revascularization, and recurrent angina requiring repeat coronary angiography between the two groups. Diltiazem alone was not an independent predictor for major adverse cardiovascular events or recurrent angina requiring repeat coronary angiography. CONCLUSION: Despite the expected improvement of endothelial function and the relief of CAS, the combination of diltiazem and nitrate treatment was not superior to diltiazem alone in reducing mortality and cardiovascular events up to 5 years in patients with significant CAS.

Caracterização dos pacientes em uso de drogas vasoativas internados em unidade de terapia intensiva / Caracterización de los pacientes en uso de drogas vasoactivas internados en unidad de cuidados intensivos / Patients’ characterization in use of vasoactive drugs hospitalized in intensive care unit

Caracterizar o paciente internado em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) em uso de drogas vasoativas (DVA). Métodos: estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, abordagem quantitativa, com 85 pacientes internados na UTI de um hospital municipal, em Fortaleza-Ceará. Coleta dos dados realizada em março e abril de 2011 pela consulta ao relatório de enfermagem. Resultados: 55,3% eram do sexo feminino, com média de idade de 70 anos. O diagnóstico mais comum foi o acidente vascular encefálico (29,4%), seguido das pneumopatias (23,5%); 89,4% necessitaram de suporte ventilatório invasivo, 98,9% usaram sonda nasogástrica, 92,9% sonda vesical de demora, 92,9 % utilizaram acesso venoso central e 90,6% fizeram uso de antibióticos. Quanto aos níveis pressóricos, apenas 4,9% apresentaram normalidade; a noradrenalina foi a DVA mais utilizada (67,1%), seguida da dopamina (35,3%); 64,7% evoluíram para óbito. Conclusão: o paciente grave apresenta especificidades que exigem conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem para uma assistência de qualidade...

Caracterizar a los pacientes hospitalizados en Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI) que hacían uso de DV. Métodos: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo, cuantitativo, con 85 pacientes ingresados en la UCI de un hospital municipal, en Fortaleza, Ceará. Recolección de datos realizada en marzo y abril de 2011 consultando a los informes de enfermería. Resultados: prevaleció el sexo femenino (55,3%) y media de edad de 70 años. El diagnóstico más frecuente fue accidente cerebrovascular (29,4%), seguido por neumopatías (23,5%); 89,4% requirieron ventilación mecánica invasiva, 98,9% utilizó sonda nasogástrica y 92,9% catéter urinario; 92,9% utilizó el acceso venoso central y el 90,6% tomaba antibióticos. En cuanto a la presión arterial, sólo el 4,9% la tenían normal, siendo la noradrenalina la DV más utilizada (67,1%), seguido por la dopamina (35,3%); 64,7% fallecieron. Conclusión: el paciente grave presenta particularidades importantes que exigen el conocimiento del equipo de enfermería para prestar asistencia de calidad...

To characterize the patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) in the use of vasoactive drugs (VAD). Method: a retrospective study with a quantitative approach. The sample is comprised by 85patients admitted to the ICU of a municipal hospital, in Fortaleza, Ceará. Data collection was conducted in March and April 2011 through consultation of the nursing report. Results: prevalence of female patients (55.3%), with age average of 70 years. The most common diagnosis was stroke (29.4%), followed by lung disease (23.5%). It is note worthy that 89.4% required invasive mechanical ventilation, 98.9% used a nasogastric tube and 92.9% an urinary catheter, 92.9% used central venous access and 90.6% had antibiotic treatments. Regarding blood pressure, only 4.9% showed normal readings; noradrenaline was the most used VAD (67.1%), followed by dopamine (35.3%). Regarding evolution, 64.7% patients died. Conclusion: the patient in severe condition shows specificities in care that require particular knowledge of the nursing staff, in order to achieve a quality assistance...

Tratamiento anticoagulante y vasodilatador para el síndrome de Nicolau tras la administración de una inyección de bencilpenicilina benzatínica intramuscular a un niño de cuatro años de edad / Anticoagulant and vasodilator therapy for Nicolau syndrome following intramuscular benzathine penicillin injection in a 4 year old boy

El síndrome de Nicolau (SN) es una complicación rara de la inyección de ciertos fármacos por vía intramuscular, intrarticular o subcutánea, que produce necrosis isquémica de la piel, las partes blandas y el tejido muscular circundante. La bencilpenicilina benzatínica es uno de los antibióticos más ampliamente empleados para las infecciones de las vías respiratorias altas y raramente se ha notificado que produzca SN. En este artículo presentamos el caso de un niño de sexo masculino de cuatro años de edad diagnosticado con SN tras la inyección de bencilpenicilina benzatínica tratado satisfactoriamente con heparina fraccionada (enoxaparina) y pentoxifilina. Los médicos deben estar atentos al uso innecesario de bencilpenicilina benzatínica para evitar las probables complicaciones.

Nicolau syndrome (NS) is a rare complication of intramuscular, intraarticular or subcutaneous injection of particular drugs leading to ischemic necrosis of the surrounding skin, soft tissue and muscular tissue. Benzathine penicilin one of the most widely used antibiotic for upper respiratory tract infections and has been rarely reported to cause NS. Here we describe a 4 year old boy with diagnosis of NS after the injection of benzathine penicillin who was successfuly treated with unfractionized heparin (enoxaparine) and pentoxifylline. The practitioners should pay attention for unnecessary use of benzathine penicillin to avoid from probable complications.