Actualización de las técnicas para el tratamiento de las recesiones periodontales / Update of techniques for the treatment of periodontal recessions

RESUMEN Introducción: A lo largo de los años se ha propuesto una notable variedad de protocolos quirúrgicos periodontales, cuyo enfoque pasó de la simple resolución de defectos de tejidos blandos a la realización de procedimientos predecibles y mínimamente invasivos. Inicialmente se usaba el injerto gingival libre. Posteriormente se han probado diversas técnicas, incluidas aquellas con sustitutos de tejidos blandos, como membranas tipo Alloderm. Hoy en día se considera el gold standard el injerto de tejido conectivo subepitelial asociado al colgajo de avance coronal. Por último, se ha examinado la técnica Pinhole, con mayor preservación de tejido y resultado más estético. Objetivos: El objetivo de esta revisión fue la comparación de técnicas actualizadas para el tratamiento de recesiones múltiples en maxilar superior e inferior. El resultado del procedimiento se evaluó en términos de cobertura radicular completa, reducción de la recesión, ganancia en altura y volumen, resultado estético, dolor postoperatorio y morbilidad del lecho donante y receptor del paciente. Material y métodos: Se realizaron búsquedas electrónicas y manuales para recopilar estudios de boca dividida, ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorios, series de casos, estudios piloto, libros de periodoncia, estudios de casos, revisiones sistemáticas y metanálisis, incluyendo los defectos de recesiónes gingivales múltiples, en maxilar y mandibular, de las cuatro clases de Miller, debido a su extensa evidencia. Resultados: Se incluyeron treinta y cuatro publicaciones y se extrajeron datos sobre el resultado de las técnicas quirúrgicas de dieciocho artículos. La evaluación clínica analizó la cantidad de cobertura radicular completa, la reducción de la recesión y la ganancia de altura y volumen, mientras que la perspectiva del paciente se expresó en términos de satisfacción estética y posibles complicaciones postoperatorias. Los procedimientos de los últimos diez años mostraron mejores resultados en todos los factores mencionados anteriormente. Conclusión: La predictibilidad y la estabilidad del tratamiento a largo plazo representan los factores que guían el proceso de elección de la técnica y que añaden valor a los procedimientos más actualizados. Se observaron progresos tanto a nivel estético, al reducir las discrepancias entre el área intervenida y el tejido circundante, como a nivel postoperatorio, al aminorar las molestias del paciente. Los desafíos propios de esta rama pronto podrían encontrar respuesta gracias a su rápida evolución, la cual permite concebir más avances.

ABSTRACT Background: Along the years, a remarkable variety of periodontal surgical protocols has been proposed, the focus of which has shifted from the mere resolution of a soft tissue defect to the performance of predictable and minimally invasive procedures. Initially, the free gingival graft was used. Subsequently, many different techniques were experimented, including those using soft tissue substitutes, such as the Alloderm membrane. Nowadays, the association of the connective tissue graft with the coronally advanced flap is considered the gold standard. Finally, the Pinhole technique, being a more conservative method in terms of tissue preservation and aesthetic outcome, was proposed. Objectives: The aim of this review was the comparison of the updated techniques for the treatment of multiple periodontal recessions, affecting both maxilla and mandible. The procedure outcome was assessed in terms of complete root coverage, recession reduction, gain in height and volume, aesthetic outcome, patient's post-operative pain and morbidity of donor and recipient sites. Material and methods: Electronic and hand searches were performed to collect split- mouth studies, randomized controlled clinical trials, case series, pilot studies, periodontal books, case studies, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, including maxillary and mandibular multiple gingival recession defects of all four Miller's classes, for its extensive evidence. Results: Thirty-four publications were included and data regarding the surgical techniques outcome were extracted from eighteen articles. The clinical evaluation analyzed the amount of complete root coverage, recession reduction and gain in height and volume, while the patient's perspective was expressed in terms of aesthetic satisfaction and possible postoperative complications. Procedures in the last ten years showed better results in all the above-mentioned factors. Conclusion: Procedural predictability and long-lasting treatment stability embody the factors driving the technique election process and adding value to more updated procedures. Progress was observed both at an aesthetic level, by reducing the discrepancias between the surgical region and the surrounding tissue, and at a postoperative level, by reducing patient discomfort. The challenges inherent to this branch could soon find answers thanks to its prompt evolution, which allows for further advances to be conceived.

Actualización de las técnicas para el tratamiento de las recesiones periodontales / actualization

Introducción: A lo largo de los años se ha propuesto una notable variedad de protocolos quirúrgicos periodontales, cuyo enfoque pasó de la simple resolución de defectos de tejidos blandos a la realización de procedimientos predecibles y mínimamente invasivos. Inicialmente se usaba el injerto gingival libre. Posteriormente se han probado diversas técnicas, incluidas aquellas con sustitutos de tejidos blandos, como membranas tipo Alloderm. Hoy en día se considera el gold standard el injerto de tejido conectivo subepitelial asociado al colgajo de avance coronal. Por último, se ha examinado la técnica Pinhole, con mayor preservación de tejido y resultado más estético. Objetivos: El objetivo de esta revisión fue la comparación de técnicas actualizadas para el tratamiento de recesiones múltiples en maxilar superior e inferior. El resultado del procedimiento se evaluó en términos de cobertura radicular completa, reducción de la recesión, ganancia en altura y volumen, resultado estético, dolor postoperatorio y morbilidad del lecho donante y receptor del paciente. Material y métodos: Se realizaron búsquedas electrónicas y manuales para recopilar estudios de boca dividida, ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorios, series de casos, estudios piloto, libros de periodoncia, estudios de casos, revisiones sistemáticas y metanálisis, incluyendo los defectos de recesiónes gingivales múltiples, en maxilar y mandibular, de las cuatro clases de Miller, debido a su extensa evidencia. Resultados: Se incluyeron treinta y cuatro publicaciones y se extrajeron datos sobre el resultado de las técnicas quirúrgicas de dieciocho artículos. La evaluación clínica analizó la cantidad de cobertura radicular completa, la reducción de la recesión y la ganancia de altura y volumen, mientras que la perspectiva del paciente se expresó en términos de satisfacción estética y posibles complicaciones postoperatorias. Los procedimientos de los últimos diez años mostraron mejores resultados en todos los factores mencionados anteriormente. Conclusión: La predictibilidad y la estabilidad del tratamiento a largo plazo representan los factores que guían el proceso de elección de la técnica y que añaden valor a los procedimientos más actualizados. Se observaron progresos tanto a nivel estético, al reducir las discrepancias entre el área intervenida y el tejido circundante, como a nivel postoperatorio, al aminorar las molestias del paciente. Los desafíos propios de esta rama pronto podrían encontrar respuesta gracias a su rápida evolución, la cual permite concebir más avances.

Background: Along the years, a remarkable variety of periodontal surgical protocols has been proposed, the focus of which has shifted from the mere resolution of a soft tissue defect to the performance of predictable and minimally invasive procedures. Initially, the free gingival graft was used. Subsequently, many different techniques were experimented, including those using soft tissue substitutes, such as the Alloderm membrane. Nowadays, the association of the connective tissue graft with the coronally advanced flap is considered the gold standard. Finally, the Pinhole technique, being a more conservative method in terms of tissue preservation and aesthetic outcome, was proposed. Objectives: The aim of this review was the comparison of the updated techniques for the treatment of multiple periodontal recessions, affecting both maxilla and mandible. The procedure outcome was assessed in terms of complete root coverage, recession reduction, gain in height and volume, aesthetic outcome, patient's post-operative pain and morbidity of donor and recipient sites. Material and methods: Electronic and hand searches were performed to collect split- mouth studies, randomized controlled clinical trials, case series, pilot studies, periodontal books, case studies, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, including maxillary and mandibular multiple gingival recession defects of all four Miller's classes, for its extensive evidence. Results: Thirty-four publications were included and data regarding the surgical techniques outcome were extracted from eighteen articles. The clinical evaluation analyzed the amount of complete root coverage, recession reduction and gain in height and volume, while the patient's perspective was expressed in terms of aesthetic satisfaction and possible postoperative complications. Procedures in the last ten years showed better results in all the above-mentioned factors. Conclusion: Procedural predictability and long-lasting treatment stability embody the factors driving the technique election process and adding value to more updated procedures. Progress was observed both at an aesthetic level, by reducing the discrepancias between the surgical region and the surrounding tissue, and at a postoperative level, by reducing patient discomfort. The challenges inherent to this branch could soon find answers thanks to its prompt evolution, which allows for further advances to be conceived.

Síndrome antifosfolipídico trombótico en una mujer con enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo. Reporte de caso / Thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome in a woman with mixed connective tissue disease. Case report

Introducción: El síndrome de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos es una enfermedad au-toinmune sistémica poco frecuente, produce hipercoagulabilidad con riesgo de trombosis. Para el diagnóstico se utilizan los criterios ACR/EULAR APS del 2023. El tratamiento es anticoagulantes y antiagregantes plaquetarios. La enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo es enfermedad autoinmunitaria sistémica con la asociación de manifestaciones clínicas de otras entidades autoinmunes. Objetivo:Describir la presentación de dos enfermedades sistémicas autoinmunes poco frecuentes en conjunto, con el propósito de contribuir con un enfoque prác-tico para el diagnóstico y manejo. Presentación del caso: Se describe una paciente de 37 años que presentó un episodio de tromboembolia pulmonar secundario a síndrome de anticuerpos anti-fosfolípidos y en los 6 meses previos tuvo síntomas compatibles con enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo. Discusión: La presencia de dos entidades autoinmunes, síndrome de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos y enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo presentadas en conjunto y cuyo debut de complicaciones fue una tromboembolia pulmonar, encontrándo-se presencia de múltiples autoanticuerpos positivos entre estas anticuerpos an-tifosfolipídicos y anti-U1 snRNP, es un reto diagnóstico al diferenciar entre otras enfermedades del tejido conectivo como lupus eritematoso sistémico, esclerosis sistémica cutánea, enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo y artritis reumatoide. El tratamiento se basó en las características del paciente y su condición clínica al momento del diagnóstico. Conclusiones: El síndrome de anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos conlleva la presencia de un episodio trombótico, por otro lado, su asociación con una enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo es poco frecuente y puede aumentar su morbimortalidad.

Introduction: Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a rare systemic autoimmu-ne disease that produces Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a rare systemic autoimmune disease that causes hypercoagulability with risk of thrombosis. For diagnosis, the ACR/EULAR APS 2023 criteria are used. Treatment is anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents.Mixed connective tissue disease is a systemic autoimmune disease with the asso-ciation of clinical manifestations of other autoimmune entities.Objective:To describe the presentation of two rare autoimmune systemic diseases toge-ther, with the purpose of contributing a practical approach to diagnosis and management.Case presentation: 37-year-old patient with an episode of pulmonary thromboem-bolism secondary to antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and in the previous 6 months he had symptoms compatible with mixed connective tissue disease.Discussion:The presence of two autoimmune entities, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and mixed connective tissue disease presented together and whose de-but of complications was a pulmonary thromboembolism, finding the presence of multiple positive autoantibodies between these antiphospholipid antibodies and an-ti-U1 snRNP, is a diagnostic challenge in differentiating between other connective tissue diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, cutaneous systemic sclero-sis, mixed connective tissue disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment was based on the patient's characteristics and clinical condition at the time of diagnosis.Conclusions: Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome entails the presence of a thrombotic episode; on the other hand, its association with a mixed connective tissue disease is rare and may increase its morbidity and mortality.

Coronally advanced flap with connective tissue graft for the treatment of multiple recession defects: Case Report

Mucogingival deformities are a group of conditions that affect many patients, having an impact on function and esthetics; they can be congenital, developmental, or acquired. Gingival recession is defined by the American Academy of Periodontology as the location of the gingival margin apical to the amelocemental junction. They can be localized or generalized and include one or more sides of the tooth. Among the treatments, subepithelial connective tissue grafting and acellular dermal matrix can be considered, whose objectives are root coverage and keratinized tissue width. Case report: A 54-year-old female patient diagnosed with mucogingival deformities around the tooth, was treated with subepithelial connective tissue graft to obtain root coverage in recessions RT2 and RT3. Conclusion: The purpose of using a bilaminar technique where a flap is made, and a connective tissue graft is placed to cover gingival recessions is to obtain better esthetic results.

Relationship between zinc finger protein A20, CTGF and FibroScan and fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B patients / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective Studies on the expression and location of zinc finger protein A20 (A20) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in liver tissues of patients with chronic hepatitis B were conducted, and the relationship between them and liver fibrosis was determined by FibroScan. Methods Studies on A20 and CTGF in liver tissues of 160 patients with chronic hepatitis B were conducted in accordance with the stage of pathological fibrosis and inflammation of the liver, and quantitative immunohistochemistry test was conducted, and statistical analysis was conducted by FibroScan. Results The expressions of A20 and CTGF in liver tissues increased with the aggravation of liver pathological fibrosis and inflammation, and there were significant differences between each stage and the control group (P0.05). There was positive correlation between liver A20 and CTGF, r=0.796 (P<0.05). Conclusions In patients with chronic hepatitis B, A20, CTGF and FibroScan are positively correlated with the degree of liver fibrosis, and A20 and CTGF are also positively correlated with the degree of liver inflammation, which can be used as indicators to evaluate the degree of liver inflammation and fibrosis, and further guide the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis treatment of patients.

Expression levels of methylated SIM2,GNA12 and CTGF in pregnant women with preeclampsia and its predictive value for disease / 国际检验医学杂志

Objective To investigate the plasma levels of methylated DNA in the pregnant women with preeclampsia and its predictive value for the occurrence of preeclampsia.Methods A total of 82 pregnant women with preeclampsia admitted to the hospital from January to December 2022 were included as the obser-vation group,and another 82 healthy pregnant women were included as the control group.Total DNA was ex-tracted,and the relative expression levels of methylated single-intention homolog 2(SIM2),guanine nucleo-tide-binding protein(GNA12),and connective tissue growth factor(CTGF)genes in plasma were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR(qRT-PCR)after DNA bisulfite modification.The value of methyla-ted DNA in predicting preeclampsia was evaluated by correlation analysis and receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.Results The relative expression levels of methylated SIM2,GNA12 and CTGF in plasma in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group(P＜0.05),and the relative expres-sion levels of methylated SIM2,GNA12 and CTGF in severe preeclampsia group was higher(P＜0.05).Corre-lation analysis showed that the relative expression levels of methylated SIM2,GNA12 and CTGF in plasma were significantly positively correlated with the occurrence of preeclampsia in pregnant women(P＜0.05).ROC curve analysis results showed that the relative expression levels of plasma methylation SIM2,GNA12,and CTGF,both individually and in combination,had good predictive efficacy in predicting preeclampsia in pregnant women,and the combined detection of the three had the highest predictive efficacy(area under the curve was 0.888,95％CI:0.827-0.949).Conclusion Compared with healthy pregnant women,the relative expression levels of methylated SIM2,GNA12 and CTGF in plasma are higher in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia,which are positively correlated with the occurrence of preeclampsia and the severity of the disease.The relative expression levels of methylated SIM2,GNA12 and CTGF are expected to be important predicting indicators for preeclampsia.

Correlation between the Expression of Serum P2X7R and CTGF Levels and Clinical Symptom Scores and Cognitive Function in Patients with Schizophrenia / 现代检验医学杂志

Objective To investigate the correlation between the expression of purinergic ligand-gated ion channel 7 receptor(P2X7R)and connective tissue growth factor(CTGF)in serum and cognitive function and clinical symptoms in patients with schizophrenia.Methods A total of 160 patients with schizophrenia who were diagnosed and treated in Department of Mental Intensive Care of Wuhan Wudong Hospital from January 2021 to January 2023 were collected as the observation group,and 160 healthy volunteers who underwent physical examinations were collected as the control group for the study.According to the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale(PANSS),patients were evaluated for their clinical and psychiatric symptoms(positive and negative symptoms,general pathological symptoms,and additional symptoms).The patients were grouped into a high score group(PANSS total score≥70 points,n=72)and a low score group(PANSS total score＜70 points,n=88).MATRICS consensus cognitive battery(MCCB)was applied to evaluate the cognitive abilities of patients;enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was applied to detect serum P2X7R and CTGF levels.Spearman method was applied to analyze the correlation between serum P2X7R,CTGF levels and PANSS scores,and MCCB scores in patients with schizophrenia.Results Compared with the control group,the serum levels of P2X7R(610.71±107.83ng/L vs 384.78±80.62 ng/L)and CTGF(1.85±0.36μg/L vs 1.40±0.21μg/L)in the observation group were increased,with differences of statistical significance(t=21.226,13.658,all P＜0.05).The scores of variety items of MCBB of patients with schizophrenia in the observation group were lower than those in the control group,with differences of statistical significance(t=14.845～24.862,all P＜0.05),the positive symptom score(21.10±3.42score),negative symptom score(23.37±5.03 score),general pathological symptom score(39.48±8.11score),additional symptom score(8.26±1.22 score),and PANSS total score(92.21±12.50score)of schizophrenia patients in the high group were higher than those in the low group(13.65±3.04,15.62±3.91 score,30.14±6.15 score,5.20±0.94score,64.61±5.30score),with differences of statistical significance(t=14.576,10.964,8.280,17.915,18.764,all P＜0.05).The serum levels of P2X7R and CTGF in patients with schizophrenia in the high group were higher than those in the low group,with differences of statistical significance(t=12.233,5.923,all P＜0.05).The levels of serum P2X7R and CTGF in patients with schizophrenia were positively correlated with PANSS score(r=0.464～0.580,all P＜0.05),and negatively correlated with MCCB score[r=-0.603～-0.439,all P＜0.05].Conclusion The serum levels of P2X7R and CTGF in patients with schizophrenia are elevated,they are closely related to the clinical symptoms and cognitive function of patients.

Functions and roles of connective tissue growth factor in nervous systems / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:Recent studies have shown that connective tissue growth factor not only participates in the development of neurons,but also participates in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases,depression,epilepsy,etc.It can also be used as a therapeutic target to develop related drugs,thereby improving the patients'quality of life. OBJECTIVE:To summarize the biological functions of connective tissue growth factor and the mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative diseases and depression,as well as the progress in intervention with connective tissue growth factor and related emerging treatments. METHODS:The first author searched relevant articles published from January 1996 to December 2022 in PubMed and Web of Science.The key words were"connective tissue growth factor,nervous system,depression,Alzheimer disease,epilepsy,Parkinson disease,epilepsy,amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,FG-3019"in English.After reading,screening and sorting,the articles consistent with the content of the review were collected.Finally,51 articles were selected for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Connective tissue growth factor participates in multiple biological activities such as fibrosis,cell adhesion,and cell development under different conditions through four different structural domains.Connective tissue growth factor is up-regulated in lesion sites of neurodegenerative diseases,depression and epilepsy.After interfering with the expression of connective tissue growth factor,the symptoms improve or disappear,suggesting that connective tissue growth factor plays an important role in the progression of these diseases.The development of novel therapeutic strategies and intervention targets around connective tissue growth factor is very promising therapeutic research.More research is needed to identify the mechanism of action to transfer from basic medical studies to clinical studies and to achieve safer and more effective treatments.

Electroacupuncture improves morphological structure of the detrusor muscle and bladder function in rats with spinal cord injury / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:Numerous clinical and basic studies have shown that electroacupuncture can improve the function of neurogenic bladder after suprasacral spinal cord injury. OBJECTIVE:To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on bladder function and connective tissue growth factor expression in rats with suprasacral spinal cord injury. METHODS:Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups(n=12 per group):the blank group did not receive any treatment;the sham-operated group only exposed the T8 subvertebral spinal cord;in the model group established,a T8 subvertebral spinal cord transection injury model was established;in the electroacupuncture group,the T8 subvertebral spinal cord transection injury model was established,and electroacupuncture intervention at Ciliao(BL32),Zhongji(RN03)and Sanyinjiao(SP06)was given at 19 days after modeling,20 minutes once a day,for 10 continuous days.After the intervention,the relevant indicators were detected. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Urodynamics:Compared with the blank group,the leakage point pressure,maximum bladder capacity and maximum bladder pressure of rats in the model group increased(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the leakage point pressure,maximum bladder capacity and maximum bladder pressure of rats in the electroacupuncture group decreased(P<0.05).Hematoxylin-eosin staining:Compared with the blank group,the bladder epithelial cells in the model group were arranged in a disordered manner,the lamina propria was destroyed,the detrusor muscle bundles were hypertrophied,the muscle fibers were arranged in a disordered manner,and the tissue edema was obvious.Compared with the model group,the bladder epithelial cells in the electroacupuncture group were arranged in a regular and orderly manner,and the degree of bladder fibrosis and tissue edema was relatively reduced.Masson staining:The degree of bladder detrusor muscle fibrosis was severe in the model group and it was lighter in the electroacupuncture group than in the model group.Transmission electron microscopy:Mitochondria in the bladder tissue in the model group were swollen and vacuolated,the morphology of the detrusor muscle was twisted and distorted,and the muscle gap was widened.Compared with the model group,mitochondria in the electroacupuncture group had a slightly clearer contour and were less vacuolated,and the muscle gap was narrowed.Western blot detection:The protein expression of connective tissue growth factor in the detrusor muscle of the bladder was elevated in the model group compared with the blank group(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the protein expression of connective tissue growth factor in the bladder detrusor muscle was decreased in the electroacupuncture group(P<0.05).To conclude,electroacupuncture at Ciliao(BL32),Zhongji(RN03)and Sanyinjiao(SP06)acupoints can improve the morphology,structure and function of the bladder in rats with suprasacral spinal cord injury,and the mechanism of action may be related to the down-regulation of connective tissue growth factor protein expression in the detrusor muscle.

Mechanism of action and clinical research progress of iguratimod in connective tissue diseases / 中国药房

As a new type of immunosuppressant，iguratimod can mediate the anti-inflammatory signaling pathway by inhibiting the proliferation of inflammatory cells and reducing the release of inflammatory cytokines， and play the role of anti-inflammatory. It can affect the proliferation of immune cells and the expression of immune factors，reduce the production and deposition of immune complexes in the body，and play the role of immune regulation. It can regulate bone metabolism by mediating signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin，Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-κB and osteoprotegerin/nuclear factor-κB receptor activating factor ligand， and play a role in bone protection. It can inhibit pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting the expression of transforming growth factor β1/ Smad2/3 signaling pathway，tumor necrosis factor-α，interleukin-1，interleukin-6，matrix metalloproteinase-9 and other inflammatory cytokines in lung tissue，and inhibiting the expression of collagen and fibronectin. Its efficacy and safety have been confirmed in the clinical application of rheumatoid arthritis and primary Sjogren syndrome and included in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. It has also shown good efficacy in the clinical application of other connective tissue diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and ankylosing spondylitis，and no obvious safety risks have been found.

Research progress on role of cytokines in pathogenesis of connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease / 中国免疫学杂志

Interstitial lung disease(ILD)is one of common pulmonary complications of connective tissue disease(CTD),which seriously affects quality of life and significantly increases risk of death of patients with CTD.However,related immune mecha-nism of CTD-ILD is not clear yet.This paper systematically reviews involvement of various cytokines in pathogenesis of CTD-ILD.Pathogenesis of CTD-ILD and correlation between cytokines and clinical indicators were discussed from cell level,animal model and clinical trials,to investigate whether cytokines can be targeted for treatment of CTD-ILD to help guide future research and clinical practice.

A Challenging Case Of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Never Judge By Appearances

Abstract We report the case of a patient with symptomatic pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc) whose initial assessment suggested a group 3 (clinical classification) PH. The patient had a history of drugs/toxins consumption, which contributed to the development of intrinsic pulmonary vascular disease. This changed the panorama towards the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), with important therapeutic and prognostic implications. In fact, the excellent clinical, laboratory and hemodynamic response to therapy confirmed the hypothesis of a case of drug-associated PAH (DPAH) in a patient with diffuse SSc and lung disease. Considering the presence of DPAH, it was deemed necessary to assess acute vasoreactivity during right heart catheterization (RHC). If criteria were met, the clinical scenario may change towards a favorable and sustained clinical and hemodynamic response with oral calcium channel blockers. However, the response to inhaled nitric oxide was negative in our patient and the therapeutic strategy with dual oral combination therapy with tadalafil and ambrisentan was continued. After six-months of therapy the patient significantly improved, from a high to a low risk of one-year mortality.

Relative incidence of interstitial lung diseases in Brazil / Incidência relativa de doenças pulmonares intersticiais no Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the relative frequency of incident cases of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) in Brazil. Methods: This was a retrospective survey of new cases of ILD in six referral centers between January of 2013 and January of 2020. The diagnosis of ILD followed the criteria suggested by international bodies or was made through multidisciplinary discussion (MDD). The condition was characterized as unclassifiable ILD when there was no specific final diagnosis following MDD or when there was disagreement between clinical, radiological, or histological data. Results: The sample comprised 1,406 patients (mean age = 61 ± 14 years), and 764 (54%) were female. Of the 747 cases exposed to hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP)-related antigens, 327 (44%) had a final diagnosis of HP. A family history of ILD was reported in 8% of cases. HRCT findings were indicative of fibrosis in 74% of cases, including honeycombing, in 21%. Relevant autoantibodies were detected in 33% of cases. Transbronchial biopsy was performed in 23% of patients, and surgical lung biopsy, in 17%. The final diagnoses were: connective tissue disease-associated ILD (in 27%), HP (in 23%), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (in 14%), unclassifiable ILD (in 10%), and sarcoidosis (in 6%). Diagnoses varied significantly among centers (c2 = 312.4; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings show that connective tissue disease-associated ILD is the most common ILD in Brazil, followed by HP. These results highlight the need for close collaboration between pulmonologists and rheumatologists, the importance of detailed questioning of patients in regard with potential exposure to antigens, and the need for public health campaigns to stress the importance of avoiding such exposure.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a frequência relativa de casos incidentes de doenças pulmonares intersticiais (DPI) no Brasil. Métodos: Levantamento retrospectivo de casos novos de DPI em seis centros de referência entre janeiro de 2013 e janeiro de 2020. O diagnóstico de DPI seguiu os critérios sugeridos por órgãos internacionais ou foi feito por meio de discussão multidisciplinar (DMD). A condição foi caracterizada como DPI não classificável quando não houve um diagnóstico final específico após a DMD ou houve discordância entre dados clínicos, radiológicos ou histológicos. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 1.406 pacientes (média de idade = 61 ± 14 anos), sendo 764 (54%) do sexo feminino. Dos 747 casos expostos a antígenos para pneumonite de hipersensibilidade (PH), 327 (44%) tiveram diagnóstico final de PH. Houve relato de história familiar de DPI em 8% dos casos. Os achados de TCAR foram indicativos de fibrose em 74% dos casos, incluindo faveolamento, em 21%. Autoanticorpos relevantes foram detectados em 33% dos casos. Biópsia transbrônquica foi realizada em 23% dos pacientes, e biópsia pulmonar cirúrgica, em 17%. Os diagnósticos finais foram: DPI associada à doença do tecido conjuntivo (em 27%), PH (em 23%), fibrose pulmonar idiopática (em 14%), DPI não classificável (em 10%) e sarcoidose (em 6%). Os diagnósticos variaram significativamente entre os centros (c2 = 312,4; p < 0,001). Conclusões: Nossos achados mostram que DPI associada à doença do tecido conjuntivo é a DPI mais comum no Brasil, seguida pela PH. Esses resultados destacam a necessidade de uma estreita colaboração entre pneumologistas e reumatologistas, a importância de fazer perguntas detalhadas aos pacientes a respeito da potencial exposição a antígenos e a necessidade de campanhas de saúde pública destinadas a enfatizar a importância de evitar essa exposição.

The impact of hospitalization on mortality in patients with connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease: a medical records review study

Abstract Background Interstitial lung disease (ILD) remains one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with Connective Tissue Diseases (CTD). This study evaluated the impact of hospitalization on mortality in an ethnically and racially diverse cohort of CTD-ILD patients. Methods We conducted a medical records review study at Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. We included 96 patients and collected data on demographic characteristics, reasons for hospitalization, length of stay, immunosuppressant therapy use, and mortality. We stratified our patients into two cohorts: hospitalized and nonhospitalized. The hospitalized cohort was further subdivided into cardiopulmonary and non-cardiopulmonary admissions. Two-sample tests or Wilcoxon's rank sum tests for continuous variables and Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests for categorical variables were used for analyses as deemed appropriate. Results We identified 213 patients with CTD-ILD. Out of them, 96 patients met the study's inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were females (79%), and self-identified as Hispanic (54%) and Black (40%). The most common CTDs were rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (29%), inflammatory myositis (22%), and systemic sclerosis (15%). The majority (76%) of patients required at least one hospitalization. In the non-hospitalized group, no deaths were observed, however we noted significant increase of mortality risk in hospitalized group (p = 0.02). We also observed that prolonged hospital stay (> 7 days) as well as older age and male sex were associated with increased mortality. Conclusion Prolonged (> 7 days) hospital stay and hospitalization for cardiopulmonary causes, as well as older age and male sex were associated with an increased mortality risk in our cohort of CTD-ILD patients.

Evaluation of Connective Tissue Changes in Different Histological Grades of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Histochemical Study

Introduction: In squamous cell carcinoma, cells invade the stroma in the form of islands, strands or sheets, which are surrounded by an extracellular matrix, thus producing reactive changes in the stroma. These reactive changes in the stroma may alter the biological behavior of oral cancer which convey some diagnostic and prognostic significance. Objective: This study was to compare staining intensity of various components of connective tissue such as collagen, elastin and glycoprotein among three histological grades of oral squamous cell carcinoma and normal oral mucosa. Materials and Methods: A total sample of 48 in which 36 cases of histologically diagnosed oral squamous cell carcinoma, 12 each of well, moderate and poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinomas and 12 sections of normal mucosa as the control group were selected for the present study. The sections of tissue blocks were stained with connective tissue specific stains such as Verhoeff’s -VanGieson stain and PAS for collagen, elastin and glycoprotein respectively. Results: Staining intensity of collagen, elastin and glycoprotein around tumor island among different grades of OSCC and normal mucosa revealed statistically significant changes (P value <0.001). Collagen and glycoprotein degradation and elastosis are more prominent in poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinomas. Conclusion: Observable changes were seen in the stroma, in all the three grades of OSCC’s compared to normal mucosa. There was an increased stromal response in poorly differentiated carcinomas, when compared to the other grades. Role of the stroma is like a double-edged sword, at times helping in tumor invasion and otherwise warding off the tumor cells.

A modified tunnel technique to treat multiple gingival recessions: Case Series

Abstract This case series reports a modified tunnel technique with connective tissue graft for the root coverage of multiple Miller Class I, II, and III gingival recessions. The modified approach presents an innovative suture technique to improve the stability and position of the graft. Ten patients with multiple gingival recessions (n=85 teeth) received surgical root coverage treatment. The gingival recession height and width were measured and presented as median, minimum, and maximum values. The percentage of the root coverage after at least 12 months expressed the treatment effectiveness. The Shapiro-Wilk test evaluated the normality; pared Wilcoxon test determined the exact P-value for the differences in the height of the gingival recession before and after surgical treatment (α = 0.05). An average of 97.9% (± 5.6%, p < 0.0001) root coverage after treatment occurred, and 73 out of 85 recessions presented complete root coverage after 12 months. Treatment of Miller class I and II gingival recessions resulted in root coverage higher than 99 and class III higher than 95% (p < 0.0001). The presented case series report the efficacy of a modified surgical technique promoting more than 95% of root coverage after 12 months in multiple Miller Class I, II, and III gingival recessions. Well-designed blind randomized controlled trials are needed to validate the proposed technique.

Resumo Esta série de casos relata uma técnica de túnel modificada com enxerto de tecido conjuntivo para o recobrimento radicular de múltiplas recessões gengivais Classe I, II e III de Miller. A abordagem modificada apresenta uma técnica de sutura inovadora para melhorar a estabilidade e a posição do enxerto. Dez pacientes com múltiplas recessões gengivais (n=85 dentes) receberam tratamento cirúrgico de recobrimento radicular. A altura e a largura da recessão gengival foram mensuradas e apresentadas como valores medianos, mínimos e máximos. A eficácia do tratamento foi expressa como uma porcentagem da cobertura radicular após pelo menos 12 meses. O teste de Shapiro-Wilk avaliou a normalidade; o teste de Wilcoxon pared determinou o valor P exato para as diferenças entre a altura da recessão gengival antes e após o tratamento cirúrgico (α = 0,05). Uma média de 97,9% (± 5,6%, p < 0,0001) de cobertura radicular após o tratamento ocorreu, e 73 das 85 recessões apresentaram cobertura radicular completa após 12 meses. O tratamento das recessões gengivais classe I e II de Miller resultou em recobrimento radicular superior a 99 e classe III superior a 95% (p < 0,0001). A série de casos apresentada relata a eficácia de uma técnica cirúrgica modificada promovendo mais de 95% de cobertura radicular após 12 meses em múltiplas recessões gengivais Classe I, II e III de Miller. Ensaios controlados randomizados cegos bem desenhados são necessários para validar a técnica proposta.

Update in Imaging Evaluation of Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas / Atualização na avaliação por imagens dos sarcomas ósseos e das partes moles

Abstract The evolution in imaging evaluation of musculoskeletal sarcomas contributed to a significant improvement in the prognosis and survival of patients with these neoplasms. The precise characterization of these lesions, using the most appropriate imaging modalities to each clinical condition presented, is of paramount importance in the design of the therapeutic approach to be instituted, with a direct impact on clinical outcomes. The present article seeks to update the reader regarding imaging methodologies in the context of local and systemic evaluation of bone sarcomas and soft tissues.

Resumo A evolução na avaliação por imagens dos sarcomas musculoesqueléticos contribuiu para melhora significativa no prognóstico e na sobrevida dos portadores destas neoplasias. A caracterização precisa destas lesões, mediante utilização das modalidades de imagem mais adequadas a cada condição clínica apresentada, é de suma importância no delineamento da abordagem terapêutica a ser instituída, com impacto direto sobre os desfechos clínicos. O presente artigo busca atualizar o leitor a propósito das metodologias de imagem no contexto da avaliação local e sistêmica dos sarcomas ósseos e das partes moles.

Clinical Profile of Sharp Syndrome: Is it rare in India?

Background: In 1972, Dr Sharp and colleagues described a new connective tissue disease, characterized by overlapping features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and polymyositis/ dermatomyositis (PM/DM) and by the presence of antibodies against the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein autoantigen (U1 snRNP). This condition was termed mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) and proposed as a distinct disease. Later, after observing the clinical evolution of MCTD patients, Sharp himself agreed that the original concept of MCTD had to be modified and that Internal organs were at risk for serious complications; patients were not always steroid responsive; prognosis was not always benign. Materials and methods: Patients in the age group of 15-50 years diagnosed to have connective tissue diseases were included. 8 patients in the age group of 15-50 admitted in Medicine department were taken and they were evaluated for the clinical profile of sharp syndrome by thorough clinical examination, routine laboratory tests and special investigations depending on the clinical profile. Results: 8 patients with connective tissue disease attending the medicine OPD were studied. Of these 8 patients were female patients. The median age of onset was 36 years, 8 patients met criteria by sharp and Alarcon-Segovia. The clinical features of patients at presentation are Raynaud抯 phenomena, Puffy fingers, esophagus dysmotility, skin rash, interstitial lung disease, arthritis, pulmonary hypertension, myositis, anemia. Conclusion: SHARP syndrome is a rare condition, as evidenced by the small series of cases reported to date. Diagnosis is based on clinical and paraclinical criteria. The evolution can be interspersed with various complications that can affect the short, medium and long-term prognosis

Research progress on the tunnel technique for root coverage / 口腔疾病防治

@#Gingival recessions (GRs) result in root hypersensitivity, root surface caries, and esthetic problems. Various root coverage surgeries are being developed for periodontal plastic therapy. The tunnel technique (TUN) is one of the most widely applied surgeries due to its features of being minimally invasive, practical, excellent outcomes and long-term stability; however, there are still some limitations of this technique. The history and evolution from the envelope flap to TUN, including its efficiency when compared with coronally advanced flaps with a connective tissue graft (CTG), are reviewed in this paper. The limitations of TUN are discussed in consideration of our clinical experience; for example, there is high technique sensitivity when TUN is applied in GR>5 mm because of the great difficulty in covering the grafts. The advantages of surgical access, including vertical incisions in the vestibule, “W” type and pinhole access, are discussed for different situations. Mattress sutures and sling sutures in a single tooth or multiple teeth are applied in TUN. The different types of grafts, such as CTG, platelet-rich plasma, articular dermal matrix and xenogeneic collagen matrix, are described. Mechanical, chemical and biological conditioning of the root surface are recommended during surgery. Protecting the surgical area and taking antibiotics postoperatively are also very important. Finally, the modifications when TUN is applied with other kinds of techniques are discussed, including lateral closed TUN, laterally positioned flaps, double papilla flaps and frenuloplasty. Minimally invasive, esthetic, long-term stability and simplified techniques are the development trends of TUN in the future.

Expression of serum connective tissue growth factor, glyoxalase Ⅰ, pyruvate kinase M2 in endometrial carcinoma and its relationship with clinicopathological features / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To explore the expression of serum connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), glyoxalase Ⅰ (GLO-I) and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) in endometrial cancer and their relationship with clinicopathological characteristics.Methods:A total of 96 endometrial cancer patients in Yuechi County People's Hospital from February 2015 to February 2017 were selected as the research group, 48 patients with endometrial hyperplasia during the same period were selected as the benign control group, and 48 patients with healthy physical examination during the same period were selected as the healthy control group. The serum levels of CTGF, GLO-Ⅰ, and PKM2 in the three groups were analyzed. The correlation between serum levels of CTGF, GLO-Ⅰ and PKM2 in the research group was analyzed, and the relationship between each serum index and clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed.Results:The levels of serum CTGF, GLO-Ⅰ and PKM2 in the research group were higher than those in the benign control group and healthy control group: (184.31 ± 37.14) μg/L vs. (110.45 ± 20.59), (17.28 ± 0.42) μg/L; (95.17 ± 16.56) pmol/L vs. (56.29 ± 10.14), (9.08 ± 0.66) pmol/L; (20.25 ± 6.13) μg/L vs. (13.11 ± 4.58), (9.05 ± 2.74) μg/L; and the levels of serum CTGF, GLO-Ⅰ and PKM2 in the benign control group were higher than those in the healthy control group, there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that the level of CTGF had positive correlation with GLO-Ⅰ and PKM2 ( r = 0.713, 0.741, P<0.05), and the level of GLO-Ⅰ had positive correlation with PKM2 ( r = 0.823, P<0.05). The results of Spearman correlation analysis showed that the levels of CTGF, GLO-Ⅰ, PKM2 had positive correlation with FIGO stage ( r = 0.609, 0.704, 0.721; P<0.05), myometrial invasion depth ( r = 0.753, 0.695, 0.719; P<0.05), lymph node metastasis ( r = 0.776, 0.744, 0.640; P<0.05); had negative correlation with the degree of differentiation ( r = - 0.711, - 0.720, - 0.668; P<0.05). Conclusions:Serum CTGF, GLO-I, PKM2 expression levels are abnormally elevated in patients with endometrial cancer, which are significantly related to multiple clinicopathological characteristics.