Oral anti-coagulants use in Chinese hospitalized patients with atrial fibrillation / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#Oral anti-coagulants (OAC) are the intervention for the prevention of stroke, which consistently improve clinical outcomes and survival among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The main purpose of this study is to identify problems in OAC utilization among hospitalized patients with AF in China.@*METHODS@#Using data from the Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China-Atrial Fibrillation (CCC-AF) registry, guideline-recommended OAC use in eligible patients was assessed.@*RESULTS@#A total of 52,530 patients with non-valvular AF were enrolled from February 2015 to December 2019, of whom 38,203 were at a high risk of stroke, 9717 were at a moderate risk, and 4610 were at a low risk. On admission, only 20.0% (6075/30,420) of patients with a diagnosed AF and a high risk of stroke were taking OAC. The use of pre-hospital OAC on admission was associated with a lower risk of new-onset ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack among the diagnosed AF population (adjusted odds ratio: 0.54, 95% confidence interval: 0.43-0.68; P  <0.001). At discharge, the prescription rate of OAC was 45.2% (16,757/37,087) in eligible patients with high stroke risk and 60.7% (2778/4578) in eligible patients with low stroke risk. OAC utilization in patients with high stroke risk on admission or at discharge both increased largely over time (all P  <0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that OAC utilization at discharge was positively associated with in-hospital rhythm control strategies, including catheter ablation (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 11.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.04-13.47; P <0.001), electronic cardioversion (adjusted OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.65-3.51; P <0.001), and anti-arrhythmic drug use (adjusted OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.38-1.53; P <0.001).@*CONCLUSIONS@#In hospitals participated in the CCC-AF project, >70% of AF patients were at a high risk of stroke. Although poor performance on guideline-recommended OAC use was found in this study, over time the CCC-AF project has made progress in stroke prevention in the Chinese AF population.Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02309398.

Association of ABCB1 gene polymorphisms rs1128503, rs2032582, rs4148738 with anemia in patients receiving dabigatran after total knee arthroplasty / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

PURPOSE@#Dabigatran is usually prescribed in recommended doses without monitoring of the blood coagulation for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after joint arthroplasty. ABCB1 is a key gene in the metabolism of dabigatran etexilate. Its allele variants are likely to play a pivotal role in the occurrence of hemorrhagic complications.@*METHODS@#The prospective study included 127 patients with primary knee osteoarthritis undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Patients with anemia and coagulation disorders, elevated transaminase and creatinine levels as well as already receiving anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy were excluded from the study. The association of ABCB1 gene polymorphisms rs1128503, rs2032582, rs4148738 with anemia as the outcome of dabigatran therapy was evaluated by single-nucleotide polymorphism analysis with a real-time polymerase chain reaction assay and laboratory blood tests. The beta regression model was used to predict the effect of polymorphisms on the studied laboratory markers. The probability of the type 1 error (p) was less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. BenjaminiHochberg was used to correct for significance levels in multiple hypothesis tests. All calculations were performed using Rprogramming language v3.6.3.@*RESULTS@#For all polymorphisms there was no association with the level of platelets, protein, creatinine, alanine transaminase, prothrombin, international normalized ratio, activated partial thromboplastin time and fibrinogen. Carriers of rs1128503 (TT) had a significant decrease of hematocrit (p = 0.001), red blood count and hemoglobin (p = 0.015) while receiving dabigatran therapy during the postoperative period compared to the CC, CT. Carriers of rs2032582 (TT) had a significant decrease of hematocrit (p = 0.001), red blood count and hemoglobin (p = 0.006) while receiving dabigatran therapy during the postoperative period compared to the GG, GT phenotypes. These differences were not observed in carriers of rs4148738.@*CONCLUSION@#It might be necessary to reconsider thromboprophylaxis with dabigatran in carriers of rs1128503 (TT) or rs2032582 (TT) polymorphisms in favor of other new oral anticoagulants. The long-term implication of these findings would be the reduction of bleeding complications after total joint arthroplasty.

Risk of bias assessment of clinical trials referenced in the technical notes on direct-acting oral anticoagulants available on e-NatJus / Avaliação do risco de viés dos ensaios clínicos referenciados nas notas técnicas sobre os anticoagulantes orais diretos disponíveis no e-NatJus

Objective: Assess and classify the risks of bias in the clinical trials (CTs) that make up the technical notes (TNs) referring to direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOAC) requests. Methods: The TNs related to the DOAC requests of apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban were selected on the e-NatJus website and, after excluding duplicate references, an analysis of the CT used for their writing was carried out. The CT risk of bias (low, high, or uncertain bias) was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and the results were added to Review Manager 5.4. Results: 181 TNs were selected, 236 articles were analyzed and after applying the inclusion criteria, 28 CTs were analyzed in full. None of the CTs were free of bias. Most CTs, 71% (20/28), had a low risk of bias regarding attrition bias and reporting bias. In contrast, 61% (17/28) of the studies did not control for selection, performance, and detection bias, as they present uncertainties and a high risk of bias. In addition, it was observed that 21% (6/28) of the CTs had a high risk of bias for conflict of interest. Conclusion: The biases present in the CT cited as a reference for the TN referring to the DOAC request are significant and compromise their quality (AU).

Objetivo: Avaliar e classificar os riscos de vieses dos ensaios clínicos (EC) que compõem as NTs referentes à solicitação dos DOAC. Métodos: As NTs relacionadas à solicitação dos DOAC apixabana, dabigatrana, edoxabana e rivaroxabana foram selecionadas no website e-NatJus e, após exclusão das referências duplicadas, foi realizada uma análise dos EC utilizados para a redação das mesmas. O risco de viés dos EC (baixo, alto ou viés incerto) foi avaliado utilizando a ferramenta Cochrane Risk of Bias e os resultados foram adicionados no Review Manager 5.4. Resultados: Foram selecionadas 181 NTs, analisados 236 artigos e após aplicação dos critérios de inclusão, resultou em 28 EC analisados na íntegra. Nenhum dos EC ficou isento de viés. A maioria dos EC, 71% (20/28), apresentou baixo risco de viés em relação ao viés de atrito e viés de relato. Por outro lado, 61% (17/28) dos estudos não controlaram o viés de seleção, performance e detecção, uma vez que apresentam incertezas e alto risco de viés. Além disso, foi observado que 21% (6/28) dos EC apresentaram alto risco de viés para conflito de interesses. Conclusão: Os vieses presentes nos EC citados como referência das NT referentes a solicitação dos DOAC são significativos e comprometem a sua qualidade (AU).

Primera colocación del dispositivo AMPLATZER™, Amulet™ para cierre de orejuela en Costa Rica utilizando Heart Navigator / First placement of the AMPLATZER™ Amulet™ device for appendage closure in Costa Rica using Heart Navigator

RESUMEN El cierre de la orejuela izquierda mediante un dispositivo facilita la prevención de un accidente cerebrovascular en pacientes con antecedente de fibrilación auricular no valvular y contraindicación para el uso de medicamentos anticoagulantes. Este artículo presenta dos casos de pacientes con historia de fibrilación auricular en el Hospital Calderón Guardia, ambos con el antecedente de sangrado digestivo y contraindicación para la anticoagulación, en los que se logró el cierre de la orejuela izquierda mediante la colocación exitosa del dispositivo AmuletTM, utilizando TAC y Heart Navigator, técnicas de imagen que se están convirtiendo en el estándar de oro de muchos centros internacionales de referencia en cardiología intervencionista.

ABSTRACT Closure of the left atrial appendage with a device facilitates the prevention of stroke in patients with a history of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and a contraindication to the use of anticoagulant medications. This article presents two cases of patients with a history of atrial fibrillation at the Calderón Guardia Hospital, both with a history of digestive bleeding and contraindication to anticoagulation, in whom closure of the left atrial appendage was achieved through successful placement of the AmuletTM device, using CT and Heart Navigator, imaging techniques that are becoming the gold standard in many international reference centers in interventional cardiology.

Efecto de la técnica de la tos durante la inyección subcutánea de heparina sobre la severidad del dolor y la satisfacción individual / Effect of the coughing technique during subcutaneous heparin injection on pain severity and individual satisfaction / Efeito da técnica de tosse durante injeção subcutânea de heparina na intensidade da dor e satisfação individual

Objetivo: examinar el efecto de la técnica de tos de mediana intensidad durante la inyección subcutánea de heparina de bajo peso molecular sobre la severidad del dolor y la satisfacción individual en pacientes de cirugía general. Método: estudio prospectivo, cuasi experimental, que incluyó a 100 pacientes a los que se les prescribió una inyección subcutánea de heparina de bajo peso molecular una vez cada 24 horas. Cada paciente recibió dos inyecciones por el mismo investigador utilizando técnica de inyección estándar con técnica de tos de intensidad media y solo técnica de inyección estándar. Resultados: hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre las puntuaciones medias de los pacientes sobre la intensidad del dolor y los niveles de satisfacción después de las inyecciones administradas por las dos técnicas (p= 0,000). Además, se encontró que el género afectó la severidad del dolor relacionado con la inyección, pero no afectó el nivel de satisfacción individual. Conclusión: se encontró que la técnica de tos de intensidad media reduce la severidad del dolor y aumenta la satisfacción del paciente de cirugía general que reciben inyecciones subcutáneas de heparina de bajo peso molecular. Registro del ensayo: NCT05681338.

Objective: to examine the effect of the medium intensity coughing technique during subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin injection on pain severity and individual satisfaction in general surgery patients. Method: the prospective, quasi-experimental study included 100 patients who had been prescribed a subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin injection once in 24 hours. Each patient received two injections by the same researcher, one using the standard injection technique with medium intensity coughing technique and the other only the standard injection technique. Results: there was a statistically significant difference between patients' mean scores on pain severity and satisfaction levels after injections administered by the two techniques (p= 0.000). Also, it was found that gender affected pain severity relating to the injection but did not affect the level of individual satisfaction. Conclusion: the medium intensity coughing technique was found to reduce pain severity and increase patient satisfaction in general surgery patients receiving subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin injections. Trial registration: NCT05681338.

Objetivo: examinar o efeito da técnica de tosse de média intensidade durante injeção subcutânea de heparina de baixo peso molecular na intensidade da dor e satisfação individual em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia geral. Método: estudo prospetivo, quasi experimental que incluiu 100 pacientes que haviam recebido uma injeção subcutânea de heparina de baixo peso molecular em 24 horas. Cada paciente recebeu duas injeções pelo mesmo pesquisador usando a técnica de injeção padrão com técnica de tosse de média intensidade e apenas técnica de injeção padrão. Resultados: houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre as pontuações médias dos pacientes quanto à gravidade da dor e níveis de satisfação após as injeções administradas pelas duas técnicas (p = 0,000). Além disso, verificou-se que o sexo do paciente afetou a intensidade da dor relacionada à injeção, mas não afetou o nível de satisfação individual. Conclusão: a técnica de tosse de média intensidade reduz a intensidade da dor e aumenta a satisfação de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia geral recebendo injeções subcutâneas de heparina de baixo peso molecular. Registro do ensaio clínico: NCT05681338.

Manejo odontológico del paciente en tratamiento de anticoagulante oral sometido a cirugía oral: una revisión narrativa / Stomatological management of anticoagulated patients undergoing oral surgery: a narrative review

Resumen Los pacientes que se encuentran bajo tratamiento de anticoagulantes orales, presentan alteraciones en distintas etapas de la hemostasia, lo que conlleva a tener implicancias y consideraciones médico/quirúrgicas durante su atención. En la actualidad, no existe un consenso en relación con el manejo odontológico de estos pacientes que serán sometidos a procedimientos quirúrgicos, llevando a protocolos clínicos que siguen diversas posturas, como la de disminuir la ingesta farmacológica del anticoagulante, sustituir con heparina y la de mantener el tratamiento bajo control. Objetivo Establecer el manejo estomatológico del paciente que se encuentra en tratamiento de anticoagulante oral mediante una revisión profunda de la literatura Materiales y método Se realizó una búsqueda de revisión bibliográfica manualmente de artículos indexados a las bases de datos de PUBMED y EBSCO que correspondiesen a las palabras "cirugía bucal", "anticoagulantes", "atención dental" y "hemorragia oral". En cuanto a los criterios de inclusión, se consideraron revisiones bibliográficas, estudios observacionales, ensayos clínicos, guías, revisiones sistemáticas y metaanálisis publicados entre noviembre de 2005 y 2022, en idiomas inglés o español. Conclusiones Existen múltiples protocolos para la atención del paciente anticoagulado que será sometido bajo procedimiento de cirugía oral menor. Es importante considerar el anticoagulante utilizado, motivo, control de este, el procedimiento a realizar en el paciente y medidas hemostáticas tanto intra como postoperatorias por realizar, tras analizar lo anterior, se advierte que disminuir la ingesta del fármaco para realizar el procedimiento, puede ser más perjudicial al paciente como al clínico, por lo tanto se sugiere mantener el tratamiento antitrombótico y realizar un correcto manejo médico/quirúrgico.

Abstract Patients undertaking oral anticoagulant treatment may experience alterations in different stages of hemostasis, which lead to medical/surgical implications and considerations during their care. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the dental management of these patients, as they go through surgical procedures. This leads to clinical protocols that follow numerous approaches, such as reducing the pharmacological intake of the anticoagulant, replacing it with heparin, and maintaining the controlled treatment. Objective: To establish the stomatological management of the patient undergoing oral anticoagulant treatment through an in depth review of the literature. Materials and Method: A manual bibliographic review search of articles indexed to the PUBMED and EBSCO databases corresponding to the words "oral surgery", "oral bleeding", "anticoagulants" and "dental management" was performed. Regarding the inclusion criteria: bibliographic reviews, observational studies, clinical trials, guidelines, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published between November 2005 and 2022, in English or Spanish, were considered. Conclusion: There are multiple protocols for the care of the anticoagulated patient who will undergo a minor oral surgery procedure. It is important to reflect on the anticoagulant used, the reason for it, its supervision, the surgical procedure that will be undertaken by the patient, and both intraoperative and postoperative hemostatic measures to be implemented. After analyzing the above, it is noted that reducing the intake of the drug to perform the surgical procedure may be harmful to the patient and to the clinician, therefore it is suggested to maintain the antithrombotic treatment and carry out a correct medical/surgical management.

Comparing follow-up of patients with vitamin K antagonists in a health center: pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic / Comparação do seguimento de doentes hipocoagulados com antagonistas da vitamina K numa unidade de saúde: pré e pós pandemia COVID-19

Introduction and objectives: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the follow-up of patients treated with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) may have been affected. This study aims to compare how these patients were monitored pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic and understand the impact of non-face-to-face appointments on their follow-up. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a Portuguese Health Center. The study included patients treated with VKAs and followed at the Health Center for international normalized ratio (INR) monitoring between March 2019 and March 2021. Data collected: sex, age, type of VKA; INR; date of INR assessment, type of appointment (face-to-face or phone/e-mail). Rosendaal's method was used to calculate pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 time in therapeutic range (TTR). Good TTR control was defined if values ≥ 70%. Results: 44 patients were included. The mean TTR in the pre-COVID-19 period was 64.55% (95% CI: 58.10 - 71.00%). The post-COVID-19 mean was slightly higher (+ 2.26%), 66.81% (95% CI: 59.66 - 73.97%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.576). The use of non-face-to-face appointments did not contribute to worsening post-pandemic TTR, show-ing no lower follow-up than during pre-pandemic period in which all contacts were face-to-face [CI (95%) -0.397 - 0.196 for a reference range -0.489 - 0.693]. Conclusions: The TTR value in both periods was similar and lower than the value defined for effective hypocoagulation. The use of non-face-to-face consultation in the post-COVID-19 period does not seem to have influenced the quality of hypocoagulation (AU).

Introdução e objetivos: Durante a pandemia COVID-19 o acompanhamento de doentes medicados com antagonistas da vitamina K (AVKs) pode ter sido afetado. Este estudo pretende comparar a forma como estes doentes foram monitorizados antes e depois da pandemia COVID-19 e compreender o impacto da consulta não presencial no seu seguimento. Métodos: Estudo de coorte retrospetivo num Centro de Saúde em Portugal. O estudo incluiu doentes tratados com AVKs e seguidos no Centro de Saúde para monitorização do International Normalized Ratio(INR) entre março de 2019 e março de 2021. Dados recolhidos: sexo, idade, tipo de AVK; INR; data da avaliação do INR, tipo de consulta (presencial ou por telefone/e-mail). Foi utilizado o método de interpolação linear de Rosendaal para calcular o tempo em intervalo terapêutico (TTR) pré- e pós-COVID-19. Foi definido um bom controle se valores de TTR ≥ 70%. Resultados: Foram incluídos 44 doentes. A média de TTR no período pré-COVID-19 foi de 64,55% (95% IC: 58,10 - 71,00%). A média pós-COVID-19 foi ligeiramente superior (+ 2,26%), 66,81% (95% IC: 59,66 - 73,97%), mas a diferença não foi estatisticamente significativa (p = 0,576). A utilização da consulta não presencial não contribuiu para o agravamento do TTR no período pós-pandemia, não mostrando um seguimento inferior ao do período pré-pandemia em que todos os contatos foram presenciais [IC (95%) -0,397 - 0,196 para um intervalo de referência -0,489 - 0,693]. Conclusões: O valor de TTR em ambos os períodos foi semelhante e inferior ao valor definido para hipocoagulação eficaz. A utilização da consulta não presencial no período pós-COVID-19 não parece ter influenciado a qualidade da hipocoagulação (AU).

Current state of non-hematologic cancer-associated thrombosis at a tertiary care hospital in India

Abstract Introduction Cancer-associated thrombosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in malignancy patients. Prophylactic anticoagulation is under-utilized and the cost of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and direct oral anticoagulants is a major barrier in developing countries. Material and methods A retrospective analysis was performed of all cancer-associated thrombosis patients attending the thrombosis clinic at a tertiary-level referral hospital based in North India between 2011 and 2015. Patient demographics and disease-related parameters were collected and analyzed. Results A total of 771 patients attended the thrombosis clinic during study period, of which 64 cases were malignancy-associated. Of these, 56% of the patients were female and 20% were bedridden. The median age was 48.5 years, adenocarcinoma (48%) being the most common histological subtype. Gynecological malignancies (30%) were the most common malignancies, followed by genitourinary (11%) malignancies. Most of the cases occurred during first year of diagnosis (51%), and only 14% occurred after 3 years. Most of the patients were on combined treatment. Almost 40% of the patients developed thrombosis within 30 days of surgical treatment. Lower limb thrombosis was the most commonly seen type (56%), while abdominal and pulmonary thrombosis were both seen in 5%. Patients were managed with LMWH and vitamin K antagonists (84.3%) and only 6.25% with LMWH alone. Direct oral anticoagulants were not commonly used during the study period. Discussion At the hospital studied, most of the cases occurred early in the disease course. Postoperative prophylaxis could have contributed towards reducing thrombosis in the peri-operative period. Early suspicion and prompt treatment can improve quality of life in such patients.

Fibrilación auricular una arritmia y un sindrome / Atrial fibrillation, an arrhythmia and a syndrome

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and is highly prevalent in elderly patients. It confers a higher risk for ischemic stroke, heart failure and death. The diagnosis and treatment of AF has been extensively studied and remain under constant revision. This article reviews the recent European guidelines and the advances observed with the introduction of direct oral anticoagulants in the last ten years. This new family of drugs has clear benefits in terms of efficacy and safety compared with traditional vitamin K antagonists. Treatment of most common comorbidities in patients with AF such as advanced age, heart failure, diabetes, renal failure, and others are also analyzed. New therapies for AF will be shortly available.

Análise da qualidade das evidências científicas sobre a eficácia e segurança nas bulas de anticoagulantes orais diretos comercializados no Brasil / Analysis of the quality of scientific evidence on efficacy and safety in the package leaflets of direct oral anticoagulants marketed in Brazil

Objetivo: Identificar e analisar a qualidade das evidências científicas sobre a eficácia e segurança dos anticoagulantes orais direto (DOAC) disponíveis nos ensaios clínicos referenciados nas bulas dos medicamentos comercializados no Brasil. Método: Trata-se de um descritivo documental dividido em duas etapas, sendo elas: (i) identificação e análise da disponibilidade das referências bibliográficas contidas nas bulas dos DOAC e (ii) análise da qualidade dos estudos contidos nas bulas através da ferramenta da Cochrane Risk of Bias RevMan versão 5.4. Foram analisados setes domínios de importâncias para ensino clínico, sendo que cada domínio foi classificado como alto, incerto ou baixo risco de viés, segundo a avaliação dos colaboradores. Resultados: Foram analisadas 10 bulas destinadas aos profissionais da saúde. Sendo que destas, foram avaliados 25 ensaios clínicos. A análise da qualidade das evidências científicas, referenciadas nas bulas para profissionais dos DOAC, mostrou que os estudos citados apresentaram consistência metodológica. Entretanto, na maioria dos estudos, os domínios foram classificados como viés incerto, ou seja, não foi possível identificar como esses pontos foram abordados nos estudos. Conclusão: Portanto, o presente estudo evidenciou que a qualidade dos ensaios clínicos referenciados nas bulas dos DOAC apresentou incertezas metodológicas em seus ensaios. Sugere-se a necessidade de normativas que estabeleçam atualizações do conteúdo informativo presente nas bulas profissionais e estabeleçam descrição dos métodos de forma clara e coesa (AU).

Objective: Identify and analyze the quality of scientific evidence on the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) available in clinical trials referenced in the package leaflets of drugs marketed in Brazil. Method: This is a descriptive documentary study divided into two stages: (i) identification and analysis of the availability of the bibliographic references contained in the package leaflets of DOACs and (ii) analysis of the quality of the studies contained in the package leaflets through the Cochrane Risk of Bias RevMan tool version 5.4. Seven domains of importance for clinical teaching were analyzed, and each domain was classified as high, uncertain or low risk of bias, according to the assessment of the collaborators. Results: Ten package leaflets intended for health professionals were analyzed. Of these, 25 clinical trials were evaluated. The analysis of the quality of the scientific evidence referenced in the package leaflets for health professionals showed that the cited studies presented methodological consistency. However, in most studies, the domains were classified as uncertain bias, i.e., it was not possible to identify how these points were addressed in the studies. Conclusion: Therefore, the present study evidenced that the quality of clinical trials referenced in the package leaflets of DOACs presented methodological uncertainties in their trials. It is suggested the need for regulations that establish updates of the information content present in the professional package inserts and establish a description of the methods in a clear and cohesive way (AU).

Infección osteoarticular multifocal en un recién nacido / Multifocal osteoarticular infection in a neonate / Infecção osteoarticular multi-focal num recém-nascido

Tanto la osteomielitis como la osteoartritis séptica en el período neonatal son patologías infrecuentes. La afectación ósea de la columna cervical es aún más rara, siendo excepcional en neonatos. Son patologías graves, con elevada morbimortalidad, donde el diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz agresivo son de suma importancia para el pronóstico vital y funcional. Presentamos el caso de un neonato que presentó una sepsis a S. Aureus multirresistente, asociada a una osteomielitis de la primera vértebra cervical y a una osteoartritis séptica de la cadera izquierda. Fue tratado precozmente de forma quirúrgica y con antibioticoterapia, presentando una buena evolución.

Both osteomyelitis and septic osteoarthritis in the neonatal period are infrequent pathologies. Bone involvement of the cervical spine is even rarer, being exceptional in neonates. These are serious pathologies, with high morbimortality, where early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are of utmost importance for the vital and functional prognosis. We present the case of a neonate who presented with sepsis due to multidrug-resistant S. Aureus, associated with osteomyelitis of the first cervical vertebra and septic osteoarthritis of the left hip. He was treated early surgically and with antibiotic therapy, presenting a good evolution

Tanto a osteomielite como a osteoartrose séptica no período neonatal são patologias raras. O envolvimento ósseo da coluna cervical é ainda mais raro, sendo excepcional nos recém-nascidos. Estas são patologias graves, com elevada morbimortalidade, onde o diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento agressivo são da maior importância para o prognóstico vital e funcional. Apresentamos o caso de um recém-nascido que apresentou sepse devido a S. Aureus multirresistente, associado a osteomielite da primeira vértebra cervical e osteoartrose séptica da anca esquerda. Foi tratado precocemente cirurgicamente e com terapia antibiótica, com uma boa evolução.

Superior ophthalmic vein and cavernous sinus thrombosis associated with COVID-19: a case report / Trombose de veia oftálmica superior e seio cavernoso associada à COVID-19: relato de caso

ABSTRACT Cavernous sinus and superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis is a rare clinical condition, and little described in the literature. The clinical presentation is nonspecific and highly variable, and symptoms may include red eye, ophthalmoplegia, coma, and death. The main etiology results from infection of the paranasal sinuses. The final diagnosis must be made through imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging. We describe a case of cavernous sinus and superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis after COVID-19 infection in a 64-year-old patient with persistent ocular hyperemia and pain on eye movement. Ophthalmological examination showed preserved visual acuity, conjunctival hyperemia, dilation of episcleral vessels and retinal vascular tortuosity in the right eye. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis. The association with the COVID-19 was raised, excluding other infectious causes. Enoxaparin and Warfarin were started with significant improvement in the ocular clinical presentation and maintenance of initial visual acuity after 12 months of follow-up.

RESUMO A trombose de seio cavernoso e veia oftálmica superior é uma condição clínica rara e pouco descrita na literatura. A apresentação clínica é inespecífica e altamente variável. Os sintomas podem incluir olho vermelho, oftalmoplegia, coma e morte. A etiologia principal resulta da infecção dos seios paranasais. O diagnóstico final deve ser efetuado por meio de exames de imagem, como ressonância magnética. Descrevemos um caso de trombose de seio cavernoso e veia oftálmica superior após COVID-19 em paciente de 64 anos e com quadro de hiperemia ocular persistente e dor à movimentação ocular. Ao exame oftalmológico, observou-se acuidade visual preservada, hiperemia conjuntival, dilatação de vasos episclerais e tortuosidade vascular retiniana em olho direito. A ressonância confirmou o diagnóstico. A associação com a COVID-19 foi levantada, excluindo-se demais causas infecciosas. Prescrevemos enoxaparina e varfarina, com melhora do quadro clínico ocular e manutenção da acuidade visual inicial após 12 meses de acompanhamento.

Aspects épidémio-cliniques des manifestations thrombotiques au cours de la COVID- 19 au sein des hôpitaux militaires de Libreville et d'Akanda, Gabon / Epidemiology and clinical aspects of thrombotic manifestations during COVID-19 at the military hospitals of Libreville and Akanda, Gabon

Décrire les aspects épidémio-cliniques des manifestations thrombotiques au cours de la COVID-19 au sein des hôpitaux militaires de Libreville et Akanda, Gabon. Méthodes : Nous avons mené une étude rétrospective et descriptive multicentrique d'une durée de 7 mois, du 01er septembre 2021 au 31 mars 2022, portant sur les patients admis dans les unités de réanimation des hôpitaux d'instruction des armées de Libreville (HIAOBO) et d'Akanda (HIAA), pour COVID-19 documentée ou suspectée. Résultats : Durant la période d'étude, 167 patients ont été́ admis pour infection à SARS-CoV-2, parmi lesquels, 18 ont présentés des manifestations thromboemboliques (10,8%). La moyenne d'âge était de 54,7±6.4 ans. Il y avait une large prédominance masculine avec un sexe ratio à 2. Nous avons noté́ 9 cas d'embolie pulmonaire (50%), 5 cas d'accidents vasculaires cérébraux ischémiques (28%), 1 cas de thrombose veineuse profonde de membre inferieur (6%), 1 cas de thrombose veineuse cérébrale (6%), 1 cas de thrombose de la veine mésentérique (6%) et 1 cas de thrombose de la veine porte (6%). Les D-dimères étaient élevés chez tous les patients. Les globules blancs étaient élevés (>10000/mm3 ) chez 12 patients (67%). Les plaquettes étaient inférieures à 150000/mm3 pour 6 patients (33%). Tous les patients avaient une pneumonie à SARS-CoV-2 et la moyenne d'atteinte deslésions pulmonaires était estimée à 45%. Neuf patients étaient décédés (50%) au cours de l'hospitalisation. Conclusion : L'infection par le SARS-CoV-2 constitue vraisemblablement une prédisposition à la survenue d'un événement thrombotique. L'incidence des manifestations thrombotiques chez les patients atteints de COVID-19 reste élevée, renforçant ainsi la prescription systématique d'une anticoagulation prophylactique

Xuebijing injection, a Chinese patent medicine, against severe pneumonia: Current research progress and future perspectives / 中西医结合学报

Severe pneumonia is one of the most common infectious diseases and the leading cause of sepsis and septic shock. Preventing infection, balancing the patient's immune status, and anti-coagulation therapy are all important elements in the treatment of severe pneumonia. As multi-target agents, Xuebijing injection (XBJ) has shown unique advantages in targeting complex conditions and saving the lives of patients with severe pneumonia. This review outlines progress in the understanding of XBJ's anti-inflammatory, endotoxin antagonism, and anticoagulation effects. From the hundreds of publications released over the past few years, the key results from representative clinical studies of XBJ in the treatment of severe pneumonia were selected and summarized. XBJ was observed to effectively suppress the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, counter the effects of endotoxin, and assert an anticoagulation effect in most clinical trials, which are consistent with experimental studies. Collectively, this evidence suggests that XBJ could play an important and expanding role in clinical medicine, especially for sepsis, septic shock and severe pneumonia. Please cite this article as: Zhang M, Zheng R, Liu WJ, Hou JL, Yang YL, Shang HC. Xuebijing injection, a Chinese patent medicine, against severe pneumonia: Current research progress and future perspectives. J Integr Med. 2023; 21(5): 413-422.

Prognosis analysis of multi-indicator combined with sequential organ failure assessment in patients with sepsis / 中华危重病急救医学

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the prognostic value of early multiple detection indicators in combination with sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) in sepsis patients.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was conducted. Patients with sepsis admitted to the department of critical care medicine of Huanggang Central Hospital of Yangtze University from May 2020 to May 2022 were selected as the research subjects. Coagulation indicators, inflammatory factors, blood routine, liver and kidney function, and blood gas analysis were collected at admission. Organ dysfunction was assessed based on the SOFA score within 24 hours after admission. Patients were divided into a survival group and a death group according to the outcome of 28 days in ICU. Differences in the above indicators between the two groups were compared. Multifactorial Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze prognostic factors of 28-day mortality in sepsis patients. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) was drawn to analyze the predictive performance of various indicators, the SOFA score, and the combine model for the 28-day outcome in patients with sepsis.@*RESULTS@#A total of 101 patients with sepsis were enrolled, 56 patients survived and 45 patients died. Compared to the survival group, patients in the death group were older, the proportion of patients with septic shock was larger, the SOFA score, and the proportion of pulmonary infection were higher, the prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were significantly prolonged, the prothrombin activity (PTA) was significantly shortened, and antithrombin (AT) was significantly decreased, the levels of hypersensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total bilirubin (TBil), and lactic acid (Lac) were significantly increased, while the platelet count (PLT) was significantly decreased. Multifactorial Logistic regression analysis showed that pulmonary infection [odds ratio (OR) = 0.010, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was 0.001-0.164, P = 0.001], AT (OR = 0.944, 95%CI was 0.910-0.978, P = 0.002), hs-CRP (OR = 1.008, 95%CI was 1.001-1.015, P = 0.017), Lac (OR = 1.619, 95%CI was 1.195-2.193, P = 0.002), and SOFA score (OR = 1.363, 95%CI was 1.076-1.727, P = 0.010) were independent prognostic factors for 28-day mortality in patients. A combined model was constructed using pulmonary infection, AT, hs-CRP, Lac, and SOFA score. ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the ROC curve (AUC) for the combine model in predicting sepsis prognosis was 0.936 (95%CI was 0.869-0.975, P < 0.001), which was higher in value compared to single indicators (AUC of AT, hs-CRP, Lac, and SOFA score were 0.775, 0.666, 0.802, 0.796, respectively, all P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#The predictive ability of the SOFA score for sepsis patient outcomes is limited. The combine model combining infection site, AT, hs-CRP, and Lac shows better predictive ability.

Predictive effect of combined procalcitonin, interleukin-6 and antithrombin III on the severity and prognosis of patients with sepsis / 中华危重病急救医学

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the correlation of procalcitonin (PCT), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and antithrombin III (AT III) with the severity of sepsis, and to compare the predictive value of the above indicators alone or in combination.@*METHODS@#A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Eighty-five patients with sepsis admitted to the department of intensive care medicine of Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from April 2021 to September 2022 were enrolled. General information, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) score within 24 hours of admission, inflammatory indicators [PCT, IL-6, serum amyloid A (SAA), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and C-reactive protein (CRP)] and coagulation indicators (D-dimer and AT III) levels at admission, and 28-day prognosis were collected. The differences of the above indicators were compared among patients with different prognosis at 28 days and different severity of sepsis. The correlation between PCT, IL-6, AT III and the severity of sepsis was analyzed by Spearman rank correlation method. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) was drawn to evaluate the predictive value of PCT, IL-6 and AT III alone or in combination on the 28-day death of patients with sepsis.@*RESULTS@#Eighty-five patients were enrolled finally, 67 cases survived and 18 cases died at 28 days. The mortality was 21.2%. There were no statistical significant differences in gender, age and other general data between the two groups. The patients in the death group were more serious than those in the survival group, and PCT, IL-6, and CRP levels were significantly higher than those in the survival group [PCT (μg/L): 4.34 (1.99, 14.42) vs. 1.17 (0.31, 3.94), IL-6 (ng/L): 332.40 (50.08, 590.18) vs. 61.95 (31.64, 194.20), CRP (mg/L): 149.28 (75.34, 218.60) vs. 83.23 (48.22, 174.96), all P < 0.05], and AT III activity was significantly lower than that in the survival group [(53.67±28.57)% vs. (80.96±24.18)%, P < 0.01]. However, there were no significant differences in D-dimer, NLR and SAA between the two groups. Among the 85 patients, 36 had sepsis with single organ dysfunction, 29 had sepsis with multiple organ dysfunction, and 20 had septic shock with multiple organ dysfunction. With the increase of the severity of sepsis, PCT and IL-6 levels gradually increased [PCT (μg/L): 0.36 (0.19, 1.10), 3.00 (1.22, 9.94), 4.34 (2.18, 8.86); IL-6 (ng/L): 43.99 (20.73, 111.13), 100.00 (45.37, 273.00), 332.40 (124.4, 693.65)], and the activity of AT III decreased gradually [(89.81±21.42)%, (71.97±24.88)%, and (53.50±25.41)%], all with statistically significant differences (all P < 0.01). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that PCT and IL-6 levels in sepsis patients were significantly positively correlated with the severity of the disease (r values were 0.562 and 0.517, respectively, both P < 0.01), and AT III activity was significantly negatively correlated with the severity of the disease (r = -0.523, P < 0.01). ROC curve analysis showed that PCT, IL-6, and AT III alone or in combination had some predictive value for the death of sepsis patients at 28 days. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the above three indicators in combination was higher than that of the individual tests (0.818 vs. 0.722, 0.725, and 0.770), with a sensitivity of 83.3% and a specificity of 73.1%.@*CONCLUSIONS@#PCT, IL-6, and AT III were significantly correlated with the severity of sepsis patients. The combined assay of the above three indicators can effectively improve the prediction of the prognosis of sepsis patients.

Summary of the best evidence for anticoagulation and bleeding risk management in patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation / 中华危重病急救医学

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate and summarize the relevant evidence of anticoagulation and bleeding risk management in patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and provide the evidence-based basis for the management of anticoagulation and bleeding during ECMO treatment.@*METHODS@#According to the evidence "6S" pyramid model, all evidence on ECMO anticoagulation management and bleeding risk was searched in relevant databases, organizations and guideline websites at home and abroad. Evidence types included guidelines, expert consensus, systematic evaluation, Meta-analysis and original study. The search time limit was from May 31, 2012 to May 31, 2022. Two researchers with evidence-based research background conducted independent literature quality evaluation of the retrieved evidence, and the evidence that met the quality standards was extracted and summarized based on the opinions of industry experts.@*RESULTS@#A total of 315 articles were retrieved, and 13 articles were included, including 3 guidelines, 6 expert consensus, and 4 Meta-analysis. A total of 27 best evidences were summarized from 7 aspects, including the selection of ECMO anticoagulation, anticoagulation in priming, anticoagulation in operation, anticoagulation monitoring, bleeding and treatment, thrombosis and treatment, and prevention and management of terminal limb ischemia.@*CONCLUSIONS@#This study provides evidence-based basis for bleeding prevention and anticoagulant management in ECMO patients. It is recommended to selectively apply the best evidence after evaluating the clinical environmental conditions of medical institutions, so as to improve the prognosis of ECMO patients.

Metabolic mechanism and intervention strategy of atrial fibrillation in the elderly / 生理学报

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a cardiovascular epidemic that occurs primarily in the elderly with primary cardiovascular diseases, leading to severe consequences such as stroke and heart failure. The heart is an energy-consuming organ, which requires a high degree of metabolic flexibility to ensure a quick switch of metabolic substrates to meet its energy needs in response to physiological and pathological stimulation. Metabolism is closely related to the occurrence of AF, and AF patients manifest metabolic inflexibility, such as insulin resistance and the metabolic shift from aerobic metabolism to anaerobic glycolysis. Moreover, our research group and the others have shown that metabolic inflexibility is a crucial pathologic mechanism for AF. Energy metabolism is closely linked to the aging process and aging-related diseases, and impaired metabolic flexibility is considered as an essential driver of aging. Therefore, this review focuses on the alteration of metabolic flexibility in the elderly and reveals that impaired metabolic flexibility may be an important driver for the high prevalence of AF in the elderly, hoping to provide intervention strategies for the prevention and treatment of AF in the elderly.

Atrial fibrillation: mechanism and clinical management / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained arrhythmia, is associated with a range of symptoms, including palpitations, cognitive impairment, systemic embolism, and increased mortality. It places a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Despite decades of research, the precise mechanisms underlying AF remain elusive. Current understanding suggests that factors like stretch-induced fibrosis, epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), chronic inflammation, autonomic nervous system (ANS) imbalances, and genetic mutations all play significant roles in its development. In recent years, the advent of wearable devices has revolutionized AF diagnosis, enabling timely detection and monitoring. However, balancing early diagnosis with efficient resource utilization presents new challenges for healthcare providers. AF management primarily focuses on stroke prevention and symptom alleviation. Patients at high risk of thromboembolism require anticoagulation therapy, and emerging pipeline drugs, particularly factor XI inhibitors, hold promise for achieving effective anticoagulation with reduced bleeding risks. The scope of indications for catheter ablation in AF has expanded significantly. Pulsed field ablation, as a novel energy source, shows potential for improving success rates while ensuring safety. This review integrates existing knowledge and ongoing research on AF pathophysiology and clinical management, with emphasis on diagnostic devices, next-generation anticoagulants, drugs targeting underlying mechanisms, and interventional therapies. It offers a comprehensive mosaic of AF, providing insights into its complexities.