Caracterización clínica y sociodemográfica de trabajadores de la salud afectados por la COVID-19

Introducción: La pandemia de COVID-19 ha sido la causa de morbilidad y mortalidad muy elevadas a escala mundial, que también ha afectado al personal de salud debido a la naturaleza propia de su trabajo, muchas veces en condiciones inseguras y con riesgo de contagio. Objetivo: Caracterizar a trabajadores de la salud afectados por la covid-19 según variables clínicas y sociodemográficas. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de 114 trabajadores de la salud con COVID-19, pertenecientes al Policlínico Docente José Martí Pérez de Santiago de Cuba, en el 2021. Para recoger la información se revisó la base de datos del Departamento de Higiene y Epidemiología y se elaboraron encuestas. Resultados: Se encontró un predominio del sexo femenino (78,0 %), en las edades de 30 a 59 años (83,3 %). Los antecedentes personales de hipertensión arterial estuvieron presentes en 46,5 % de los afectados. La pérdida del olfato resultó ser el síntoma más frecuente (53,5 %). La neumonía (14,9 %) y la fatiga (37,7 %) fueron la complicación y la secuela que prevalecieron. Los médicos representaron 50,0 % en el perfil ocupacional y el área de contagio más frecuente fue el policlínico (36,8 %). Conclusiones: Las características clínicas y sociodemográficas encontradas en los trabajadores de la salud con COVID-19 mostraron que este personal es vulnerable, por lo que se debe cumplir estrictamente con las medidas de bioseguridad.

Introduction: The pandemic of COVID-19 has been the very high morbidity and mortality cause worldwide that has also affected the health personnel due to the nature characteristic of its work, many times under insecure conditions and with infection risk. Objective: To characterize health workers affected by covid-19 according to clinical and sociodemographic variables. Method: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study of 114 health workers with COVID-19 belonging to José Martí Pérez Teaching Polyclinic was carried out in Santiago de Cuba, in 2021. To pick up the information the database of the Hygiene and Epidemiology Department was revised and surveys were elaborated. Results: There was a prevalence of the female sex (78.0 %), aged 30 to 59 (83.3 %). The personal history of hypertension was present in 46.5% of those affected. The loss of smell was the most frequent symptom (53.5 %). Pneumonia (14.9 %) and fatigue (37.7%) were the complication and sequel that prevailed. Doctors represented 50.0% in the occupational profile and the most frequent infection area was the polyclinic (36.8 %). Conclusions: The clinical and sociodemographic characteristics found in health workers with COVID-19 showed that this personnel is vulnerable, reason why biosafety measures should be strictly followed.

Progress in the application of AIT in allergic airway diseases / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

Allergen specific immunotherapy (AIT) is to identify the patient's allergen, give the patient repeated exposure to the allergen extract, and gradually increase the concentration and dose until the target maintenance dose is reached, so that the patient can develop tolerance to the allergen, which is the only treatment that can regulate the pathogenesis of allergic diseases and change its natural course. In recent years, domestic and foreign scholars have made great progress in the clinical practice and research field of AIT. This article reviewed the relevant progress of the mechanism, efficacy and drug administration of AIT.

The Nasal Endoscopic Features of Postnasal Drip: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract Introduction Patients with chronic rhinitis suffer from postnasal drip (PND) but this symptom is not well addressed. Nasal endoscopy may aid in identifying PND. Well described endoscopic features of PND are presence of secretions in the posterior nasal cavity, diffuse erythema, and hemorrhagic spots in the nasopharynx, but these have not been formally studied. Objectives The present study aims to assess the association of nasal endoscopic features with PND among rhinitis patients. This will guide clinicians to interpret the nasal endoscopic findings appropriately. Methods Adults (≥ 18 years old) with chronic rhinitis were consecutively recruited at an Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic in a tertiary referral center. The patients were grouped into either "Rhinitis with PND" or "Rhinitis only." The endoscopic features of PND were scored as: Secretions in the posterior nasal cavity (yes/no), erythema in the nasopharynx (none, roof only, diffuse), hemorrhagic spots (yes/no), then were compared between groups. Results The re were 98 patients included (age 32.32 ±11.33 years old, 61.2% female, 61.2% PND). Presence of secretions in the posterior nasal cavity was associated with PND ("Rhinitis with PND" versus "Rhinitis only," 78.3 versus 55.3; p = 0.02; Odds ratio: 2.81; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08-7.32). Diffuse erythema of the nasopharynx was more frequent in "rhinitis only" compared with those with PND (76.3 versus 53.3%; p = 0.02). Hemorrhagic spots were equally present in both groups (11.7 versus 18.4%; p = 0.35). Conclusion Presence of secretions in the posterior nasal cavity may indicate bothersome PND among patients with rhinitis. Diffuse erythema of the nasopharynx and hemorrhagic spots are a nonspecific sign of inflammation.

Prognostic Value of Polypoid Changes of the Middle Turbinate in Relapsed Nasal Polypi after FESS: A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract Introduction Despite the high level of patient satisfaction with functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and the clinical improvement, polyp recurrence is observed in 23% to 87% of patients and requires reoperation. Objective To assess the prognostic value of polypoid changes of the middle turbinate (PCMT) in relapse of paranasal sinus polyps in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyp (CRSwNP) after FESS and the effect of partial middle turbinectomy (PMT) on the outcome of surgery. Methods We conducted a prospective clinical study on 60 patients with CRSwNP with and without PCMT. The patients were allocated into three groups: group I included twenty patients without PCMT; group II, twenty patients with PCMT; and group III included twenty patients with PCMT submitted to PMT. The patients were evaluated endoscopically according to the Lund-Kennedy endoscopic scoring system, radiologically according to the Lund-Mackay scoring system, and symptomatically through the 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22). Results The total postoperative Lund-Kennedy score differed significantly among the 3 groups (p < 0.001), with a group II presenting a significantly higher total score compared to groups I and III. The Preoperative SNOT-22 score differed significantly among the three groups (p = 0.013), with group II presenting a significantly higher score compared to group I. There was a significant association involving the 3 groups and relapse at 12 months (p = 0.029); relapse was higher in group II (50.0%) than in groups I (20%) and III (15.0%). Conclusion There was a significant association between PCMT and the relapse of nasal polyps. Also, nasal polyposis recurred at a lower rate in the group submitted to middle turbinate resection compared to the group in whom it was preserved.

Development of a mobile app for the evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

Abstract Objective To develop a mobile application with a standardized routine, to be used by general otolaryngologists for evaluating patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Methods A systematic review was made to identify outcomes, recommendations and what tests that would be used in the routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis; establish an expert consensus on items to be included in this routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis using the Delphi method; development of an application for use on a mobile device, with the routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Results Based on the systematic review, the outcomes used in studies about chronic rhinosinusitis were identified, as well as guidelines recommendations, which showed discrepancies between them. These recommendations and outcomes were presented to specialists in chronic rhinosinusitis, until a consensus was reached. As a result of the Delphi method, the flowchart of the routine evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis was defined, and then was used for the development of the mobile application. Conclusion The creation of the mobile application for evaluating patients with chronic rhinosinusitis followed an adequate methodology of elaboration made by specialists in the field of chronic rhinosinusitis, standardizing the investigation of these patients. Level of evidence: Level 5.

Aeroallergen sensitization patterns among patients with chronic rhinitis with or without concomitant asthma

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the differences in the pattern of allergen sensitization in CR individuals without or with asthma, according to asthma severity. Methods A total of 1066 adults were evaluated. Asthma and chronic⁄allergic rhinits were identified by specialists, questionnaries and skin-prick test. The phenotypic characterization was avaliable from skin-prick test to an aeroallergen extended panel, total IgE and pulmonary function. Using questionnaires and clinical evaluation, participants were classified into the groups: chronic rhinitis alone (CRA) and chronic rhinitis + asthma, the latter subdivided into CR + mild asthma (CRMA) and CR + moderate to severe asthma (CRMSA). Aerollergen sensitization was defined by a positive prick test to one or more allergens associated with nasal symptoms and/or asthma. The association between CR and asthma was evaluated by multivariable logistic regression. The evidence of effect modification of pattern of sensitization in CR on the association with asthma severity and outcomes was examined by introducing interactions terms in the logistic regression models adjusting for confounders. Results Frequency of sensitization to aeroallergens was higher in association with asthma in comparison to CRA (CRMA 70.4%; CRMSA 65.0%; CRA 47.0%; p= 0.000). Similarly, the presence of asthma was associated to aeroallergen multiple sensitization (51.5%) (OR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.27-3.50). Additionally, the sensitization to mites, cockroaches, animal epithelium, grasses, and molds, were higher in asthma (56.8%, 24.3%, 12%, 7.13% and 10.3%, respectively). Sensitization to Alternaria alternata, Cladosporium herbarum and dog epithelium was exclusive in asthma groups. A concomitant asthma diagnosis was directly associated with a positive allergen sensitization at least one allergen (62.7%, OR = 2.45, 95% CI 1.80-3.34) and polissensitization (51.5%, OR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.27-3.50). Conclusion Asthma is associated with multiple allergen sensitization among patients with CR. Some unique profiles of aeroallergen sensitization were observed in patients with CR and asthma. Nevertheless, no difference was found in the sensitization in relation to asthma severity, which suggest atopy is not the main underlying mechanism for asthma severity among patients with CR. Level of evidence: Level 3.

Sensibilización cutánea a aero alérgenos en niños con rinitis y asma / Skin sensitization to aero-allergens in children with rhinitis and asthma

Introducción: Las enfermedades alérgicas son muy comunes en la población pediátrica. Entre las causas frecuentes se encuentran los aeroalérgenos del ambiente, y la identificación de estos es de gran ayuda tanto para el diagnóstico como para el tratamiento. Objetivos: Determinar la frecuencia de aeroalérgenos, por medio de la determinación de Inmunoglobulina E (IgE) específica a alérgenos comunes por la prueba de sensibilidad cutánea en pacientes pediátricos con síntomas de asma y rinitis alérgica. Materiales y Métodos: Diseño observacional, descriptivo, prospectivo, transversal, población de pacientes de 4 a 17 años con síntomas compatibles con asma y rinitis alérgica que acudieron a un centro asistencial pediátrico en el periodo de estudio. Se realizó por medio de las Pruebas de punción cutánea (PCP). Resultados: La edad media de los pacientes fue de 8 años, 57% pacientes de sexo masculino y 43% de sexo femenino. El 53% de los pacientes presenta rinitis y asma, 45% solo rinitis y el 2% solo asma. El 79% de los pacientes presentó reacción positiva de sensibilización alérgica por medio de la PCP. Teniendo en cuenta la sensibilización por tipo de aeroalérgenos se tuvo que el 64% de los pacientes tuvo reacción positiva a ácaros, 19% a animales 18% a cucarachas, 8% a pólenes y 6% a hongos. Conclusión: La gran mayoría de pacientes con asma padecía rinitis alérgica concomitante y los ácaros del polvo fueron los aeroalérgenos más frecuentemente determinados en las pruebas cutáneas de alergia en niños con asma y rinitis de nuestra población.

Introduction: Allergic diseases are very common in the pediatric population. Among the frequent causes are aeroallergens from the environment and the identification of these is a great help for diagnosis and treatment. Objectives: To determine the frequency of aeroallergens, through the determination of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) specific to common allergens by the skin sensitivity test in pediatric patients with symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis. Materials and Methods: Observational, descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional design, population of patients from 4 to 17 years old with symptoms compatible with asthma and allergic rhinitis who attended a pediatric care center during the study period. It was carried out by means of Skin Puncture Tests (PCP). Results: The mean age of the patients was 8 years, 57% male patients and 43% female. 53% of the patients presented Rhinitis and Asthma, 45% only Rhinitis and 2% only Asthma. 79% of the patients presented a positive allergic sensitization reaction through PCP. Taking into account the sensitization by type of aeroallergens, 64% of the patients had a positive reaction to mites, 19 % to animals 18% to cockroaches, 8% to pollens and 6% to fungi. Conclusion: The vast majority of patients with asthma suffered from concomitant allergic rhinitis and dust mites were the most frequently determined aeroallergens in allergic skin tests in children with asthma and rhinitis in our population.

Effect of obesity, lipids and adipokines on allergic rhinitis risk: a Mendelian randomization study

Abstract Objectives: Observational studies suggested that obesity may promote the development of allergic rhinitis. The aim of this study was to explore the association of obesity, lipids and adipokines with this allergic disease at the genetic level using Mendelian randomization strategies. Methods: Summary data for three obesity indicators (such as body mass index), eight lipid indicators (such as triglycerides) and six adipokines (such as interleukin-6 and adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein) were collected, and suitable instrumental variables were extracted from these summary data according to the three main assumptions of Mendelian randomization. Three Mendelian randomization methods (such as inverse variance weighted) were used to detect the casual effect of the above indicators on allergic rhinitis risk. Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. Results: After Bonferroni correction, the inverse variance weighted reported that elevated levels of interleukin-6 and adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein were nominally associated with the decreased risk of allergic rhinitis (OR = 0.870, 95% CI 0.765-0.990, p = 0.035; OR = 0.732, 95% CI 0.551-0.973, p = 0.032). The other Mendelian randomization methods supported these results. Obesity, lipids and other adipokines were not related to this allergic disease. Sensitivity analyses found no heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy in the study. Conclusion: The study provided some interesting, but not sufficient, evidence to suggest that interleukin-6 and adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein might play a protective role in the development of allergic rhinitis at the genetic level. These findings should be validated by more research. Level of evidence: This was a Mendelian randomized study with a level of evidence second only to clinical randomized trials, and higher than cohort and case-control studies.

Changes in the levels of immunological markers after treatment in patients with allergic rhinitis

Introduction: Monitoring changes in the levels of immune markers is of great significance in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment in patients with allergic rhinitis. Objectives: Determine the change in the concentration of immune markers after treatment in patients with allergic rhinitis caused by cotton dust. Methods: A descriptive, single-group, comparative before and after intervention study on 52 patients with allergic rhinitis caused by cotton dust. Comparison of immunological markers results before and after 36 months of treatment. Results: Total IgE concentration after treatment decreased, the median decreased from 1227.756 U/mL to 676.805 UI/mL. Serum levels of IgG, IgG4, and IgG1 in patients after treatment increased compared to before (p< 0.001). The cytokines also changed in the direction of no longer responding toward allergy. Median IL-17 decreased from 1.752 mg/dL to 0.417 mg/dL. Conclusion: In patients with allergic rhinitis after specific sublingual desensitization treatment, IgE levels and cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-17 are significantly reduced and IgG, IgG4 and IgG1 levels are increased after treatment.

Introducción: El monitoreo de los cambios en los niveles de marcadores inmunes es de gran importancia para evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento en pacientes con rinitis alérgica. Objetivos: Determinar el cambio en la concentración de marcadores inmunes después del tratamiento, en pacientes con rinitis alérgica causada por polvo de algodón. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, monogrupo, comparativo antes y después de la intervención, en 52 pacientes con rinitis alérgica por polvo de algodón. Se compararon resultados de marcadores inmunológicos antes y después de 36 meses de tratamiento. Resultados: La concentración de IgE total después del tratamiento disminuyó, la mediana disminuyó de 1227,756 U/mL a 676,805 UI/mL. Los niveles séricos de IgG, IgG4 e IgG1 en pacientes, después del tratamiento, aumentaron (p< 0,001). Las citocinas también cambiaron en dirección a ausencia de respuesta a la alergia. La mediana de IL-17 disminuyó de 1,752 mg/dL a 0,417 mg/dL. Conclusión: En pacientes con rinitis alérgica, después del tratamiento específico de desensibilización sublingual, los niveles de IgE y citocinas como IL-6 e IL-17 se reducen significativamente y los niveles de IgG, IgG4 e IgG1 aumentan.

Efeitos do isolamento social pela pandemia por COVID-19 na rinite infantil / Effects of social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic on childhood rhinitis

Introdução e objetivo: Devido à pandemia do novo coronavírus, as crianças passaram a ficar mais tempo em casa, e essa mudança implicou diretamente nas manifestações de diversas doenças, inclusive da rinite. A rinite é a inflamação da mucosa causada, principalmente, por alérgenos, ocasionando sintomas como rinorreia, espirros, obstrução nasal, hiperemia conjuntival, prurido nasal e ocular. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar as consequências do isolamento social nas crianças com rinite, a fim de compreender a modificação da doença nesse período. Métodos: O estudo é observacional transversal, com dados obtidos através de um questionário eletrônico, para pais e/ou responsáveis de crianças entre 5 e 12 anos. Resultados: No total de 116 respostas, 51,7% das crianças eram do sexo masculino, e a mediana de idade foi de 8,5 anos. Em relação à rinite, em 81% dos casos foi relatado melhora ou manutenção do quadro durante o período de isolamento social. Em um quarto da amostra houve piora na qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Os sintomas com maior piora foram espirros e prurido nasal, e o sintoma com maior melhora foi a rinorreia. Os desencadeantes de sintomas mais frequentes foram animais domésticos, tapetes e perfumes. O uso de medicamentos foi relatado em 59,4% dos casos, sendo que em 32,7% não houve prescrição médica. Conclusão: Os resultados encontrados evidenciaram que o isolamento social teve um impacto positivo em relação às manifestações clínicas da rinite na população estudada.

Introduction and objective: The COVID-19 pandemic required children to spend more time at home, and this change had a direct impact on the manifestations of various diseases, including rhinitis. Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused mainly by exposure to allergens, resulting in symptoms such as rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal obstruction, conjunctival hyperemia, and itchy eyes and nose. This study aimed to evaluate the consequences of social distancing in children with rhinitis in order to understand the changes in the disease pattern during the pandemic. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study with data obtained through an electronic questionnaire answered by parents and/or guardians of children aged 5 to 12 years. Results: From a total of 116 responses, 51.7% of children were male with a median age of 8.5 years. In 81% of cases, rhinitis symptoms improved or remained unchanged during the period of social distancing. In a quarter of the sample, there was a worsening of patients' quality of life. The symptoms with the greatest worsening were sneezing and nasal itching, and the symptom with the greatest improvement was rhinorrhea. The most frequent symptom triggers were pets, carpets, and perfumes. Medication use was reported in 59.4% of cases, with the use of over-the-counter medications in 32.7% of them. Conclusion: The results showed that social distancing had a positive impact on the clinical manifestations of rhinitis in the study population.

Baker's rhinitis and asthma with concomitant wheat anaphylaxis: a rare overlap of clinical entities / Rinite e asma do padeiro com anafilaxia após ingestão de trigo: um caso raro de sobreposição de entidades clínicas

Wheat is one of the fundamental sources of food worldwide. Baker's asthma and occupational rhinitis are both frequent and can be attributable to work exposure in bakers. However, the association between baker's asthma and wheat allergy is very rare. The authors report the case of a bakery worker who developed baker's asthma and occupational rhinitis after years of working in a bakery and later developed anaphylactic reactions after wheat ingestion.

O trigo é uma das fontes alimentares mais importantes em todo o mundo. A asma do padeiro e a rinite ocupacional são frequentes e podem ser atribuídas à exposição a farinhas em padeiros. No entanto, a associação entre asma do padeiro e alergia alimentar ao trigo é muito rara. Os autores descrevem um caso em que um trabalhador de panificação desenvolveu asma do padeiro e rinite ocupacional após anos trabalhando em uma padaria, e posteriormente desenvolveu reações anafiláticas após a ingestão de trigo.

Distúrbios do olfato, uma revisão narrativa do diagnóstico ao tratamento / Olfactory dysfunction: a narrative review from diagnosis to treatment

Os distúrbios do olfato (DO) impactam de forma significativa na qualidade de vida dos indivíduos, e o conhecimento teórico a respeito do assunto deve ser de domínio dos alergologistas e imunologistas clínicos, possibilitando, assim, o seu diagnóstico e implementação de intervenções. Suas causas podem ser variadas, entre elas estão: rinite alérgica, rinossinusite crônica com ou sem pólipos, infecções de vias aéreas superiores, exposição a substâncias químicas, doenças neurológicas, drogas, traumas e o próprio envelhecimento. O olfato pode ser avaliado e mensurado através de testes com metodologias diferentes, cujo objetivo é avaliar parâmetros como a identificação de odores, limiar e discriminação olfativa. Esses testes são de fundamental importância para caracterizar objetivamente a queixa do paciente, como também avaliar o olfato antes e após determinada aplicação terapêutica. O tratamento das desordens olfativas é baseado em sua etiologia, portanto determinar a sua causa é indispensável para uma melhor eficácia no manejo. Entre as principais opções estão os corticoides tópicos, com impacto significativo nos pacientes com doença sinusal associada, treinamento olfatório e outras intervenções como ômega 3, vitamina A intranasal, e terapias que ainda requerem mais estudos.

Olfactory dysfunction significantly impacts quality of life, and allergists and clinical immunologists must be informed about it for diagnostic and interventional purposes. The causes are varied: allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis with or without polyps, upper airway infections, exposure to chemicals, neurological diseases, drugs, trauma, and aging itself. Olfactory function can be evaluated and measured by several tests that use different methodologies to evaluate and identify odors, olfactory threshold, and olfactory discrimination. These tests are fundamental for objectively characterizing patient complaints and evaluating olfactory function before and after therapeutic interventions. Olfactory disorders are treated according to their etiology, so determining their cause is a major factor in treatment efficacy. The main options include topical corticosteroids, which have a significant impact on patients with sinus disease, olfactory training, other therapies (such as omega 3 and intranasal vitamin A), in addition to therapies that require further research.

Rinite alérgica em estudantes de Medicina: percepção sobre diagnóstico, controle dos sintomas e qualidade de vida / Allergic rhinitis among medical students: perceptions about diagnosis, symptom control, and quality of life

Introdução: A rinite alérgica (RA) é uma doença com sintomas nasais, como rinorreia, espirros e congestão nasal, causada pela inflamação da mucosa após a exposição do indivíduo a um agente alérgeno. A sintomatologia da doença causa consequências na qualidade de vida do paciente, que frequentemente possui problemas de sono, irritabilidade e fadiga. Estudantes podem ter seu desempenho acadêmico afetado de modo negativo pela doença. Objetivo: Tendo em vista a problemática que a doença causa na performance de estudantes, esse estudo pretende analisar a prevalência da RA nos discentes da Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI), com a finalidade de identificar o grau de comprometimento na qualidade de vida dos estudantes com a doença e relacionar com o seu grau de controle dos sintomas da rinite alérgica. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo observacional, a partir de dados coletados de estudantes de Medicina, através de questionários específicos para avaliação do controle dos sintomas e impacto na qualidade de vida, sendo eles: o Rhinitis Control Assessment Test e o Sino-Nasal Outcome Test. Resultados: 88 estudantes de Medicina foram avaliados neste estudo, a prevalência da RA foi de 69%. A maioria dos estudantes possui a doença controlada, o que caracteriza menor impacto da doença na qualidade de vida desses pacientes. Entre eles, os sintomas de maior impacto são: espirros, obstrução nasal e lacrimejamento ocular. Houve correlação estatística entre o controle dos sintomas e o impacto dos mesmos na qualidade de vida, avaliado pelos questionários RCAT e SNOT-22 (r = -0,4277; p < 0,001). Conclusão: O conhecimento disseminado entre estudantes de Medicina sobre rinite alérgica, diferentemente do resto da população, permite que os mesmos tenham maior conscientização, aderência aos tratamentos e percepção do quadro. Por isso, a educação da população se faz essencial e útil para controle dos sintomas e garantia da qualidade de vida coletiva.

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis is a disease involving nasal symptoms, such as rhinorrhea, sneezing and nasal congestion, which are caused by mucosal inflammation due to allergen exposure. The symptoms, which affect patient quality of life, frequently include sleep problems, irritability, and fatigue. The disease can have a negative impact on academic performance in affected students. Objective: In view of the disease's effects on academic performance, this study determined the prevalence of allergic rhinitis among medical students at the Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (Santa Catarina, Brazil), identifying the degree to which it impairs quality of life and relating this to symptom control. Methods: This descriptive observational study was based on data collected from medical students through 2 specific questionnaires to assess symptom control and quality of life: the Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (RCAT) and Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT- 22). Results: Among the 88 medical students evaluated in this study, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 69%. The disease controlled in most affected students, indicating a lower impact on quality of life. The most prominent symptoms were sneezing, nasal obstruction, and tearing. According to the RCAT and SNOT-22 results, symptom control was significantly correlated with quality of life (r = -0.4277; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Unlike the rest of the population, the students' knowledge of allergic rhinitis led to greater awareness of the condition and better treatment adherence. Therefore, educating the population is essential for symptom control and guaranteeing collective quality of life.

Rinitis alérgica en pediatría: recomendaciones para su diagnóstico y tratamiento / Allergic rhinitis in pediatrics: recommendations for diagnosis and treatment

La rinitis alérgica (RA) es una de las enfermedades crónicas más frecuentes de la infancia. Sin embargo, permanece subdiagnosticada y subtratada. Su prevalencia ha aumentado en los últimos años y varía del 2 % al 25 %. Los síntomas de la RA incluyen estornudos, prurito, rinorrea y congestión nasal. Un correcto diagnóstico y tratamiento de la RA y sus comorbilidades, tales como rinosinusitis con o sin poliposis nasal, conjuntivitis, otitis media, asma bronquial e infecciones del tracto respiratorio, son importantes para reducir el impacto negativo en la afectación de la calidad de vida del paciente y sus familiares, y los gastos sanitarios que ocasiona. La inmunoterapia alérgeno específica, en pacientes correctamente seleccionados, previene nuevas sensibilizaciones y reduce la hiperreactividad bronquial asociada a la RA. Considerando todos estos factores, el Comité Nacional de Alergia de la Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría propone recomendaciones basadas en la evidencia actual.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the most common chronic diseases in children. However, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Its prevalence has increased in recent years and varies from 2 to 25 %. Symptoms include sneezing, itching, runny nose, and nasal congestion. A correct diagnosis and treatment of AR and its comorbidities such as rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyposis, conjunctivitis, otitis media, bronchial asthma and respiratory tract infections, are important to reduce the negative impact on the quality of life of the patient and their relatives, and in medical costs. Specific allergen immunotherapy, in correctly selected patients, prevents new sensitizations and reduces bronchial hyperreactivity associated with AR. Taking into account all these reasons, the National Allergy Committee of the Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría proposes current evidence based recommendations

The effect of early radiofrequency turbinate reduction, intranasal steroid, and antihistamine H-1 on persistent allergic rhinitis: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Objective: We aimed to evaluate the effect of radiofrequency turbinate reduction as an initial treatment on clinical improvement, inflammatory mediators, and remodeling process. Methods: Between July 2018- February 2020, 32 patients with moderate-severe persistent AR were randomly divided into 2 groups. Intervention group received radiofrequency turbinate reduction followed by intranasal steroid and Antihistamine H-1 (AH-1), control group received intranasal steroid and AH-1. Both groups were evaluated for clinical improvement (using visual analogue scale based on total nasal symptoms score, peak nasal inspiratory flow, and turbinate size using imageJ) after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. Inflammatory mediators (ELISA from nasal secretions was performed to measure ECP, IL-5, and HSP-70) and remodeling markers (nasal biopsy followed by immunohistochemistry examination was performed to evaluate MMP-9, TIMP-1, and PAI-1) were evaluated in week 4. Results: Three patients dropped out of the study, resulting in 16 patients in intervention group and 13 patients in control group. At week 4, clinical response improved significantly in the intervention group compared to control group (Chi-Square test, p<0.05). Compared to control, intervention group experienced a reduction of IL-5 and no significant change in ECP level (Mann Whitney test, p>0.05). Reduction in the ratio of MMP-9/TIMP-1 were significantly higher in intervention group (unpaired t-test, p< 0,05). Meanwhile, increase in HSP-70 in the intervention group was slightly lower than in control group, but the difference with control group was not significant (Mann Whitney test, p>0.05). Conclusion: Early radiofrequency turbinate reduction followed by pharmacotherapy given to persistent moderate-severe AR patients give more improvement only in early clinical symptoms and reduce MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio, thus it might be suggested as one of the adjuvant therapies for the management of moderate-severe persistent AR. However, further investigation with a larger sample size and longer follow-up period is needed. Level of evidence: 1B.

Cirugía de cornetes inferiores en población pediátrica: ¿Cómo, cuándo y por qué? / Inferior turbinate surgery in pediatric population: How, when and why?

La hipertrofia de cornetes inferiores representa una de las principales causas de obstrucción nasal en pacientes pediátricos. En estudios recientes se ha observado un aumento significativo de esta patología en niños que no responden a terapia médica. La evidencia disponible recomienda la cirugía como tratamiento de elección en la obstrucción nasal refractaria en niños con cornetes hipertróficos. Sin embargo, hasta la fecha no existen criterios formales de derivación a cirugía en la población pediátrica y los estudios en infantes son limitados. Al mismo tiempo, la falta de consenso no ha permitido recomendar una técnica quirúrgica en estos pacientes por sobre otras. Por lo tanto, se hace necesario profundizar las diferentes alternativas disponibles, considerando y optando por aquellas que presenten mayores beneficios y menor riesgo de complicaciones. En la presente revisión se estudió la evidencia disponible hasta el momento sobre este tema en la población pediátrica y además se realizó un análisis de la efectividad y complicaciones de las diferentes técnicas disponibles.

Inferior turbinate hypertrophy represents one of the leading causes of nasal obstruction in pediatric patients. Recent studies have observed a significant increase in turbinate hypertrophy in children that does not respond to medical treatment. The latest evidence recommends inferior turbinoplasty for treating nasal obstruction in children with hypertrophic turbinates. However, until today there are no formal criteria for referral to surgery in the pediatric population, and studies in children are limited. At the same time, the absence of consensus has not allowed the recommendation of one surgical technique over others in these patients. This is why it is necessary to deepen the available alternatives and choose those with more significant benefits and a lower risk of complications. In this review, we study available evidence about this topic in the pediatric population and analyze the effectiveness and complications of different known techniques.

Eficacia y seguridad de la combinación de dosis fija montelukast-desloratadina 10 mg/5 mg cápsula en adultos mexicanos con rinitis alérgica persistente: Estudio controlado, aleatorizado, doble ciego y multicéntrico / Efficacy and safety of fixed-dose combination of montelukast-desloratadine 10 mg/5 mg capsule in Mexican adults with persistent allergic rhinitis: A double blind, randomized, controlled and multicenter study

Objetivo: El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la combinación de dosis fija montelukast/desloratadina 10mg/5mg cápsula versus la combinación de montelukast/loratadina 10 mg/10 mg tableta en adultos con diagnóstico de rinitis alérgica persistente. Material y métodos: El presente fue un estudio clínico aleatorizado, controlado, doble ciego, prospectivo, longitudinal, multicéntrico, con brazos paralelos. Sujetos con diag nóstico de rinitis alérgica persistente que cumplieran criterios de elegibilidad y firmaran consentimiento informado fueron enrolados para recibir uno de los dos tratamientos cada 24 horas vía oral durante 6 semanas. La eficacia se estableció mediante la evaluación clínica a través de escalas clínicas validadas en idioma español, siendo la variable primaria de eficacia la diferencia de puntuación del cuestionario SNOT-20 al final del tratamiento, mientras que la frecuencia y características de los eventos adversos fue considerada la variable de seguridad. Resultados: Se aleatorizaron 86 pacientes, 74 de ellos fueron analizados por protocolo. Los cuestionarios sobre síntomas de la enfermedad e indicadores de calidad de vida con ambos tratamientos mostraron que más del 90% de los pacientes no presentaron síntomas o solo fueron leves al final del estudio, por lo que ambos tratamientos me joraron significativamente (p < 0.05) la sintomatología de la enfermedad. Los eventos adversos presentados fueron leves a moderados. Conclusiones: El presente estudio demostró que la eficacia de montelukast/deslora tadina 10mg/5mg no es inferior al medicamento comparador. Por tanto, el tratamiento de prueba representa una alternativa eficaz y segura para el tratamiento de segunda línea de la rinitis alérgica persistente en pacientes que las monoterapias o primeras líneas de tratamiento no ofrecen mejoría clínicamente relevante.

Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the fixed dose combination of montelukast/desloratadine 10 mg/5 mg capsule versus the combination of montelukast/loratadine 10 mg/10 mg tablet in adults diagnosed with persistent allergic rhinitis. Materials and methods: The present study was a multicenter, controlled, prospective, longitudinal, randomized, double-blind clinical trial with parallel arms. Patients diagnosed with persistent allergic rhinitis who met eligibility criteria and signed informed consent were enrolled in the study to receive one of the two treatments every 24 hours orally for 6 weeks. Efficacy was established by clinical evaluation through clinical scales vali dated in Spanish, being the primary efficacy variable the difference in the score of the SNOT-20 (Sino-Nasal Outcome Test) questionnaire at the end of treatment; and the frequency and characteristics of adverse events were considered the safety variable. Results: 86 patients were randomized, 74 of which were analyzed per protocol. Ques tionnaires about the symptoms of the disease and quality of life indicators with both treatments showed that more than 90% of patients had mild symptoms or no symptoms at all at the end of the study. So, both treatments significantly improved (p < 0.05) the symptoms of the disease. Adverse events were mild to moderate. Conclusions: The present study showed that the efficacy of montelukast/desloratadine 10 mg/5 mg is not inferior to the comparator. Therefore, the study treatment represents an effective and safe alternative for the second-line treatment of persistent allergic rhinitis in patients in whom monotherapies or first-line treatments don't offer clinically relevant improvement.

Rinitis alérgica asociada al grado de compromiso pulmonar por COVID-19 en pacientes de un hospital general peruano / Allergic rhinitis associated with the degree of pulmonary involvement due to COVID-19 in patients from a peruvian general hospital

Objetivos. Evaluar la asociación entre rinitis alérgica y el grado de compromiso pulmonar en pacientes con COVID-19 y evaluar las frecuencias de las variables principales. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio de tipo observacional, transversal y analítico mediante la revisión de historias clínicas de pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Nacional Cayetano Heredia entre el año 2020 y 2021 con diagnóstico de COVID-19. Se determinó el antecedente de rinitis alérgica, y el compromiso pulmonar se evaluó mediante una tomografía sin contraste usando el puntaje tomográfico (PT), además de, variables sociodemográficas y clínicas. Se estimaron razones de prevalencias tanto crudas (RP) como ajustadas (RPa) con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza (IC) al 95% y se empleó un modelo lineal generalizado de la familia Poisson con función de enlace logarítmica y varianzas robustas. Resultados. Se evaluaron 434 pacientes predominantemente varones, mayores de 60 años y sin antecedentes médicos relevantes. El 56,2% tenía el antecedente de rinitis alérgica y el 43,1% tuvo un compromiso pulmonar moderado a severo. En el modelo de regresión ajustado, se encontró que el antecedente de rinitis alérgica disminuyó la gravedad de COVID-19 evaluada a través del compromiso pulmonar según el PT (RPa: 0,70; IC 95%: 0,56-0,88; p=0,002). Conclusiones. El antecedente de rinitis alérgica representó una disminución en la gravedad de COVID-19 según el PT score del 30,0% en pacientes hospitalizados.

Objectives. To evaluate the association between allergic rhinitis and the degree of pulmonary involvement in patients with COVID-19 and to determine the frequencies of the main variables. Materials and methods. An observational, cross-sectional and analytical study was carried out by reviewing the medical records of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 from the Cayetano Heredia National Hospital between 2020 and 2021. We obtained information regarding the history of allergic rhinitis; pulmonary involvement was assessed by non-contrast tomography results using the chest computed tomography (CT) score. Data regarding sociodemographic and clinical variables was also obtained. Both crude (PR) and adjusted (aPR) prevalence ratios with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. We also used a generalized linear Poisson family model with log link function and robust variances. Results. We evaluated 434 patients, who were mostly male, older than 60 years and had no relevant medical history. Of these, 56.2% had a history of allergic rhinitis and 43.1% had moderate to severe pulmonary involvement. The adjusted regression model showed that the history of allergic rhinitis reduced the severity of COVID-19 according to the pulmonary involvement assessed by the CT score (aPR: 0.70; 95%CI: 0.56-0.88; p=0.002). Conclusions. The history of allergic rhinitis resulted in a 30.0% decrease in COVID-19 severity according to the CT score in hospitalized patients.

JTE-013 mediates RhoA/ROCKl/Drpl signaling axis regulating mitochondrial damage and apoptosis to alleviate allergic rhinitis / 中国药理学通报

Aim To investigate the protective effect and mechanism of JTE-013 on allergic rhinitis (AR) by regulating mitochondrial injury and apoptosis through RhoA/ROCKl/Drpl pathway. Methods AR model was established by ovalbumin (OVA) in mice. Nasal tissue sections were then stained with HE, TUNEL and DHE. Western blot assay. In vitro, human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs) were stimulated with human recombinant interleukin-13 (IL-13), and the effects of JTE-013 and Y27632-related protein expression were detected by Western blot. Immunofluorescence was used to observe the effects of JTE-013 and Y 27632 on total ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial ROS generation, Drpl translocation and Cyt-c expression in cells. Results JTE-013 reduced the frequency of nose rubbing and sneezing, reduced nasal mucosal thickening and decreased eosinophil infiltration in AR mice. TUNEL and DHE staining results suggested that JTE-013 could inhibit apoptosis and reduce ROS expression in mouse nasal epithelial cells. Western blot showed that both JTE-013 and Y 27632 could significantly reduce RhoA, ROCK1, Drpl and p-Drpl(616), inhibit the expression of apoptotic proteins Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, Cyt-c, cleavedcaspase-9 and up-regulate the expression of p-Drpl (637) and Bcl-2. Immunofluorescence showed that inhibitors of JTE-013 or ROCK1 almost blocked IL-13mediated increase in ROS and mtROS production, inhibited decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, and blocked Cyt-c expression and Drpl translocation in nasal mucosal epithelial cells. Conclusion JTE-013 can regulate the morphology and function of mitochondria by inhibiting RhoA/ROCKl/Drpl signaling axis, thereby alleviating nasal epithelial cell inflammation in mice with allergic rhinitis.

Empirical Study on Promotion of Appropriate Pharmacotherapy in Patients with Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis / 社会薬学

The prevalence of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hereinafter “hay fever”) is increasing annually. While self-medication with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs is growing, some hay fever patients also use OTC drugs alongside medical visits. Issues arising from co-administration, such as excessive dosing and reduced quality of life (QOL) due to drowsiness, have been highlighted. However, no research has investigated the factors contributing to the concomitant use of prescribed and OTC drugs. Therefore, this study examined the following three patient groups: those using only prescribed drugs, those using only OTC drugs, and those using a combination of both. Initial analyses compared adherence, overuse extent, QOL (as measured by the Japanese Rhino-conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire [JRQLQ]), treatment satisfaction, lifestyle habits, and health literacy (as measured by the Communicative and Critical Health Literacy Scale [CCHL]) among the groups. Subsequently, a multinomial logistic regression analysis focusing on combination users identified factors associated with co-administration. The results revealed that combination users exhibited lifestyle issues and lower QOL compared to those using prescribed or OTC drugs only, although differences in CCHL were not significant. Furthermore, co-administration was linked to social life-related JRQLQ and excessive usage during symptom onset. In conclusion, patients with hay fever should avoid the concurrent use of prescribed and OTC drugs. Co-administration may not necessarily improve symptoms and might even lead to overuse risks. Thus, patients should be guided to consult medical professionals before purchasing OTC drugs, and lifestyle improvements should be emphasized as well.