Bronquitis plástica. Caso clínico interesante / Plastic Bronchitis. Interesting Case Report

La bronquitis plástica es una enfermedad infrecuente y poco estudiada. Se caracteriza por la obstrucción parcial o total de la vía aérea inferior por moldes o yesos gomosos y firmes, compuestos por múltiples sustancias como fibrina, mucina y otros, que se acumulan en la luz bronquial. En la actualidad, no hay un consenso de la fisiopatología real. Puede presentarse con síntomas leves como tos, sibilancias y disnea, hasta eventos fatales de insuficiencia respiratoria. Se clasifican en tipo I (inflamatorios) y tipo II (acelulares). La presencia de la bronquitis plástica es una complicación de varias enfermedades y está relacionada con procedimientos correctivos de cardiopatías congénitas (procedimiento de Fontan). El diagnóstico se hace a través de la identificación de los yesos bronquiales, ya sea cuando el paciente los expectora o por broncoscopía. Se han utilizado múltiples terapias que solo tienen evidencias anecdóticas. En los últimos años se han observado buenos resultados con el uso de heparinas, así como el alteplasa nebulizado e instilado por broncoscopia.

Plastic bronchitis is a rare and little-studied disease. It is characterized by partial or total obstruction of the lower airway by rubbery and firm molds or plasters, made up of multiple substances that accumulate in the bronchial lumen. Currently, there is no consensus on real pathophysiology. It can present itself with mild symptoms such as cough, wheezing and dyspnea, to fatal events of respiratory failure. They are classified into type I (inflammatory) and type II (acellular). The presence of plastic bronchitis is a complication of several diseases and in corrective procedures for congenital heart disease (Fontan procedure). Diagnosis is made by identifying bronchial casts, either by the patient expectorating them or by bronchoscopy. Multiple therapies have been used that only have anecdotal evidence. In recent years, good results have been observed with the use of heparins and tPA nebulized and instilled by bronchoscop.

Liposarcoma gigante mediastinal. Cirugía radical con abordaje Clamshell y manejo en la Unidad de Cuidados Críticos / Giant Mediastinal Liposarcoma. Radical Surgery with Clamshell Approach and Management in Critical Care Unit

Se presenta a un paciente con liposarcoma mediastinal gigante con dolor torácico, disnea, cuyos estudios por imágenes revelaban la presencia de una gran tumoración de 42 cm en su diámetro mayor que abarcaba todo el mediastino, comprometía ambas cavidades torácicas, rechazaba los pulmones, corazón y grandes vasos. La biopsia con aguja cortante bajo guía ecográfica fue informada como liposarcoma. El paciente tuvo resección completa del tumor mediante la incisión Clamshell. En el post operatorio inmediato, presentó shock circulatorio más disfunción multiorgánica (DOMS): plaquetopenia, insuficiencia renal aguda con necesidad de soporte dialítico, injuria hepática. El soporte y monitoreo especializado en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI) permitió mejoría clínica y buena evolución. Salió de alta en buenas condiciones.

We present a patient with giant mediastinal liposarcoma with chest pain, dyspnea, whose imaging studies revealed the presence of a large tumor measuring 42 cm in its greatest diameter that covered the entire mediastinum, involved both thoracic cavities, rejected the lungs, heart and big glasses. The sharp needle biopsy under ultrasound guidance was reported as liposarcoma. The patient had complete resection of the tumor through the Clamshell incision. In the immediate postoperative period, he presented circulatory shock plus multiple organ dysfunction (DOMS): plateletopenia, acute renal failure with the need for dialytic support, liver injury. Specialized support and monitoring in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) allowed clinical improvement and good evolution. He was discharged in good condition.

Descripción de las intervenciones broncoscópicas en estenosis traqueales posterior a infección por COVID-19 / Description of Bronchoscopic Interventions in Post-COVID Tracheal Stenosis

Introducción: La infección por SARS-CoV-2 puede presentar síndrome de distrés res-piratorio agudo con requerimiento de ventilación mecánica prolongada y retraso en la realización de traqueostomía. Esto trae como consecuencia un incremento en casos de estenosis traqueal y la necesidad de métodos menos invasivos para su abordaje. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, desde marzo 2020 hasta diciem-bre 2021 en el Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, en adultos con estenosis traqueal postintubación asociado SARS-CoV-2. Se realizó análisis univariado entre los grupos con infección o no por SARS-CoV-2 como control, y reintervención, grado de estenosis, uso de inyección intramucosa con dexametasona intratraqueal o múltiples estenosis como desenlaces de importancia. Se usó test exacto de Fisher, t Student y Man-Whitney según la naturaleza de variables. Se consideró p estadísticamente significativo menor a 0.05.Resultados: Se identificaron 26 pacientes, 20 tenían COVID-19 y 6 no. Se encontraron diferencias en edad (p=0,002), epilepsia (p=0,007) y estenosis múltiple (p= 0,04). En 85% de los casos se utilizó láser blue más dilatación con balón pulmonar, en 35% inyección intramucosa con dexametasona intratraqueal y reintervención en 35%, sin diferencias significativas entre grupos. Conclusiones: Se observó un incremento tres veces mayor de pacientes con estenosis múltiple en el grupo de infección por COVID-19, así mismo se encontró que el método más utilizado en este grupo para la recanalización fue el uso de láser blue más dilatación con balón pulmonar y la innovación en el uso de inyección intramucosa.

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome with a prolonged need for mechanical ventilation and delayed tracheostomy, resulting in an increase in cases of tracheal stenosis and the necessity for less invasive approaches.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to December 2021 at the Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, focusing on adults with post-intubation tracheal stenosis associated with SARS-CoV-2. Univariate analysis was performed between groups with or without SARS-CoV-2 infection as a control, considering reintervention, degree of stenosis, use of intratracheal steroids, or multiple stenoses as important outcomes. Fisher's exact test, Student's t-test, and Mann-Whit-ney test were employed based on the nature of variables. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: A total of 26 patients were included, with 20 having COVID-19 and 6 without. Significant differences were found in age (p=0.002), epilepsy (p=0.007), and multiple stenosis (p=0.04). In 85% of cases, laser blue plus balloon pulmonary dilation was used, intratracheal dexamethasone in 35%, and reintervention in 35%, with no significant differences between groups.Conclusions: A threefold increase in subglottic stenosis was observed during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with more instances of multiple stenosis and predominantly the use of laser blue plus balloon pulmonary dilation as a successful recanalization technique. There was a higher use of intratracheal dexamethasone in this group compared to oth-er pathologies causing tracheal stenosis.

Budd-Chiari syndrome with hepatopulmonary syndrome: a case report and literature review / 中华儿科杂志

Objective: To summarize the clinical features and prognosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome with hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) in children. Methods: The clinical data of a child who had Budd-Chiari syndrome with HPS treated at the Department of Pediatrics of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University in December 2016 was analyzed retrospectively. Taking "Budd-Chiari syndrome" and "hepatopulmonary syndrome" in Chinese or English as the keywords, literature was searched at CNKI, Wanfang, China Biomedical Literature Database and PubMed up to July 2023. Combined with this case, the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome with HPS in children under the age of 18 were summarized. Results: A 13-year-old boy, presented with cyanosis and chest tightness after activities for 6 months, and yellow staining of the skin for 1 week. Physical examination at admission not only found mild yellow staining of the skin and sclera, but also found cyanosis of the lips, periocular skin, and extremities. Laboratory examination showed abnormal liver function with total bilirubin 53 μmol/L, direct bilirubin 14 μmol/L, and indirect bilirubin 39 μmol/L, and abnormal blood gas analysis with the partial pressure of oxygen of 54 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), the partial pressure of carbon dioxide of 31 mmHg, and the alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient of 57 mmHg. Hepatic vein-type Budd-Chiari syndrome, cirrhosis, and portal hypertension were indicated by abdominal CT venography. Contrast-enhanced transthoracic echocardiography (CE-TTE) was positive. After symptomatic and supportive treatment, this patient was discharged and received oxygen therapy outside the hospital. At follow-up until March 2023, there was no significant improvement in hypoxemia, accompanied by limited daily activities. Based on the literature, there were 3 reports in English while none in Chinese, 3 cases were reported. Among a total of 4 children, the chief complaints were dyspnea, cyanosis, or hypoxemia in 3 cases, and unknown in 1 case. There were 2 cases diagnosed with Budd-Chiari syndrome with HPS at the same time due to respiratory symptoms, and 2 cases developed HPS 1.5 years and 8.0 years after the diagnosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome respectively. CE-TTE was positive in 2 cases and pulmonary perfusion imaging was positive in 2 cases. Liver transplantation was performed in 2 cases and their respiratory function recovered well; 1 case received oxygen therapy, with no improvement in hypoxemia; 1 case was waiting for liver transplantation. Conclusions: The onset of Budd-Chiari syndrome with HPS is insidious. The most common clinical manifestations are dyspnea and cyanosis. It can reduce misdiagnosis to confirm intrapulmonary vascular dilatations with CE-TTE at an early stage. Liver transplantation is helpful in improving the prognosis.

A case of neonatal Netherton syndrome / 中国当代儿科杂志

A male infant, aged 6 days, was admitted to the hospital due to respiratory distress and systemic desquamative rash after birth. The infant presented with erythema and desquamative rash, respiratory failure, recurrent infections, chronic diarrhea, hypernatremic dehydration, and growth retardation. Comprehensive treatment, including anti-infection therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin administration, and skin care, resulted in improvement of the rash, but recurrent infections persisted. Second-generation sequencing revealed a homozygous mutation in the SPINK5 gene, consistent with the pathogenic variation of Netherton syndrome. The family opted for palliative care, and the infant died at the age of 2 months after discharge. This report documents a case of Netherton syndrome caused by the SPINK5 gene mutation in the neonatal period, and highlights multidisciplinary diagnosis and therapy for this condition.

Analysis of pulmonary function in post-Covid-19 patients at a university hospital / Análise da função pulmonar de pacientes com síndrome pós-covid-19 em um hospital universitário

Objective: Evaluate the spirometry pattern of patients who persisted with respiratory symptoms after infection with SARS-Cov-2. Methods: Cross-sectional, observational, retrospective study in a single center, approved by the local Ethics Committee (registration number: 5,120,720). Patients who underwent spirometry due to Post-Covid Syndrome were evaluated to analyze the spirometric pattern presented. The following were collected: exam identification data, sex, age, symptom time, the need for mechanical ventilation, and quality of spirometry, in addition to the following exam parameters: FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEV 25-75/FVC, and FEV 75, evaluating the Lower Limit of Normality, pre-bronchodilator and post-bronchodilator values. Results: Data from 72 patients were collected. Of these, 55.5% of patients had spirometry results within normal limits. The most frequent respiratory alteration was obstructive respiratory disorder, present in 29.2% of the patients. Conclusions: The presence of dyspnea in patients with normal spirometry may indicate further evaluation of lung function and other etiologies for dyspnea (AU).

Objetivo: Avaliar o padrão de espirometria de pacientes que persistiram com sintomas respiratórios após a infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2. Métodos: Estudo transversal, observacional e retrospectivo realizado em um único centro, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética local (número do parecer: 5.120.720). Foram avaliados pacientes submetidos a espirometria devido à Síndrome Pós-Covid, a fim de analisar o padrão espirométrico apresentado. Os seguintes dados foram coletados: identificação do exame, sexo, idade, tempo de sintomas, necessidade de ventilação mecânica, qualidade da espirometria, além dos seguintes parâmetros do exame: CVF, VEF1, VEF1/CVF, VEF 25-75/CVF e VEF 75, avaliando o Limite Inferior da Normalidade, valores pré-broncodilatador e pós-broncodilatador. Resultados: Foram coletados dados de 72 pacientes. Destes, 55,5% apresentaram resultados espirométricos dentro dos limites normais. A alteração respiratória mais frequente foi o distúrbio ventilatório obstrutivo, presente em 29,2% dos pa-cientes. Conclusões: A presença de dispneia em pacientes com espirometria dentro da normalidade pode indicar uma avaliação adicional da função pulmonar, assim como outras etiologias para a dispneia (AU).

COVID-19 e o ciclo gravídico-puerperal: uma revisão narrativa / COVID-19 and the pregnancy cycle: a narrative review

Até este momento da pandemia de COVID-19, embora as gestantes não tenham maior risco de se infectar do que a população geral, elas têm maiores riscos de desenvolver formas graves e demandar cuidados de UTI e ventilação invasiva, so- bretudo aquelas que apresentam comorbidades. No Brasil, a mortalidade materna por COVID-19 está entre as mais elevadas do mundo. A transmissão vertical do SARS-CoV-2 parece ser um evento raro, e até o momento não se observou aumento da ocorrência de abortos e malformações. Entretanto, a COVID-19 está associada a elevadas taxas de prematuridade, baixo peso ao nascer e admissão em UTI neona- tal. Em adaptação a esse novo cenário, são indicados cuidados especiais durante o ciclo gravídico-puerperal, sendo útil destacar: o espaço crescente da telemedicina no pré-natal; a não obrigatoriedade da realização de cesariana em caso de gestan- te infectada no momento do parto e a liberação da amamentação pelas puérperas com COVID-19.

Disección de aorta secundario a trauma, manejo clínico en Hospital General / Aortic dissection secondary to trauma, clinical management in General Hospital

INTRODUCCIÓN. La disección de aorta es una patología poco frecuente, cuando se presenta, lo hace de una manera catastrófica manifestada por dolor torácico o lumbar intenso acompañado de compromiso hemodinámico agudo, un diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano suelen ser cruciales para evitar la muerte del paciente, así mismo, una disección de aorta puede ser secundario a un trauma torácico por desaceleración y se presenta en 1,5% a 2%, lo que induce sobre todo a un desgarro localizado en la región del istmo aórtico. CASO CLÍNICO. Paciente masculino de 35 años, con antecedente de accidente en vehículo motorizado que provocó un traumatismo cráneo encefálico moderado, hematoma epidural parietal derecho, con resolución quirúrgica hace 18 meses, se descartó lesiones a nivel de tórax con radiografía de tórax normal, además se realizó ecografía FAST en ventana perihepática, suprapúbica, periesplénica y subxi-foidea sin encontrar alteración. Acudió al servicio de emergencia por un cuadro de hemiparesia derecha más disartria de 4 horas de evolución, se realiza tomografía de cráneo sin encontrarse lesión, catalogándose como evento cerebrovascular isquémico con recuperación neurológica. Durante su estancia hospitalaria presenta un cuadro de disnea de grandes esfuerzos y tras realizar exámenes complementarios de control se llega a una conclusión de una cardiomegalia, por lo que es referido a consulta de cardiología donde se realiza ecocardiograma, en la cual se observa disección de aorta ascendente más aneurisma por lo que se decide su ingreso y se instaura tratamiento mediante medidas de soporte, con derivación a hospital de especialidades para cirugía cardiotorácica. CONCLUSIONES. La disección de aorta secundario a un traumatis-mo es poco frecuente, sin embargo, el diagnostico siempre debe estar presente en caso de trauma por desaceleración, ya que es vital para la supervivencia del paciente y su manejo oportuno.

INTRODUCTION. Aortic dissection is an infrequent pathology; when it occurs, it does so in a catastrophic manner manifested by intense thoracic or lumbar pain accompanied by acute he-modynamic compromise. Early diagnosis and treatment are usually crucial to avoid the patient's death; likewise, aortic dissection can be secondary to thoracic trauma due to deceleration and occurs in 1.5% to 2%, which mainly induces a localized tear in the region of the aortic isthmus. CLINICAL CASE. 35-year-old male patient, with a history of motor vehicle accident that caused a moderate head injury, right parietal epidural hematoma, with surgical resolution 18 months ago, chest injuries were ruled out with normal chest X-ray, and FAST ultrasound was performed in perihepatic, suprapubic, perisplenic and subxiphoid window without finding any alteration. She went to the emergency department for a picture of right hemiparesis and dysarthria of 4 hours of evolution, a cranial tomography was performed without finding any lesion, being clas-sified as an ischemic cerebrovascular event with neurological recovery. During his hospital stay he presented with dyspnea of great effort and after performing complementary control tests, a cardiomegaly was found, so he is referred to a cardiology clinic where an echocardiogram is per-formed, which showed dissection of the ascending aorta plus aneurysm, admission is decided and treatment is instituted through supportive measures, with referral to a specialty hospital for cardiothoracic surgery. CONCLUSIONS. Aortic dissection secondary to trauma is rare, however, the diagnosis should always be present in case of trauma due to deceleration, as it is vital for the survival of the patient and its timely treatment.

Eficacia y tolerabilidad Resultados del tratamiento para la fibrosis pulmonar idiopática. Experiencia de la vida real / Efficacy and Tolerability Outcomes of Treatment for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Real-life Experience

Introducción: la fibrosis pulmonar idiopática (FPI) es una enfermedad progresiva y cró-nica con muy mal pronóstico. Actualmente, existen dos fármacos para esta patología. El propósito de nuestro estudio es evaluar los efectos del tratamiento en los pacientes de una consulta en vida real.

Introduction: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive disease with a very poor prognosis. Two drugs are currently available for this disease. The purpo-se of our study is to evaluate the effects of treatment in patients in a real-life practice.

Características clínicas, diagnóstico e tratamento de mulher com síndrome de Meigs: relato de caso e revisão narrativa / Clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of a woman with Meigs syndrome: case report and narrative review

O objetivo deste estudo é descrever o caso de mulher com síndrome de Meigs e apresentar a revisão narrativa sobre o tema. Paciente do sexo feminino, 30 anos, nulípara, encaminhada ao hospital por massa anexial e história prévia de drenagem de derrame pleural. Evoluiu com instabilidade hemodinâmica por derrame pleural hipertensivo à direita, sendo submetida a drenagem torácica, com citologia do líquido negativa. Após, foi submetida a laparotomia: realizada salpingo-ooforectomia esquerda. A congelação e a análise histopatológica diagnosticaram fibroma ovariano. A citologia ascítica foi negativa. CA-125 elevado, presença de derrames cavitários e exame de imagem suspeito podem mimetizar um cenário de neoplasia maligna de ovário em estágio avançado. Entretanto, na síndrome de Meigs clássica, o tratamento é cirúrgico, sendo o diagnóstico obtido por meio da análise histopatológica do tumor ovariano. O manejo da síndrome de Meigs clássica é cirúrgico e, após a remoção do tumor, o derrame pleural e a ascite desaparecem.

To describe a case of Meigs syndrome and present a narrative review of the condition. Female patient, 30 years old, nulliparous, referred to the hospital due to an adnexal mass and a previous drainage of pleural effusion. She developed hemodynamic instability due to a hypertensive right pleural effusion being submitted to chest drainage, with negative cytology of the fluid. She underwent laparotomy: Left salpingo-oophorectomy was performed and frozen section and histopathological analysis diagnosed an ovarian fibroma. Ascites cytology was negative. Elevated CA-125, presence of cavitary effusions, suspicious imaging exam can mimic a scenario of ovarian cancer at an advanced stage. However, in classical Meigs syndrome, treatment is surgical, and the diagnosis is obtained through histopathological analysis of the ovarian tumor. Classical Meigs syndrome' management is surgical. After tumor removal, pleural effusion and ascites resolve.

O uso de métodos contraceptivos hormonais em pacientes com asma: repercussões clínicas / The use of hormonal contraceptives methods in patients with asthma: clinical repercussions

Objetivo: Analisar o uso dos contraceptivos hormonais em mulheres com asma e a escolha desses métodos contraceptivos para essa população, com avaliação de eventuais repercussões sobre novos episódios de asma e sibilos. Métodos: Foram selecionados estudos longitudinais, ensaios clínicos, revisões sistemáticas e metanálises. As plataformas consultadas foram PubMed, Embase, Cochrane e SciELO, com a utilização dos descritores: "contracepção", "contracepção hormonal", "sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel" e "asma". Resultados: Dois grandes estudos demonstraram que o uso de contraceptivos hormonais esteve associado à redução do risco de novos episódios de asma. Uma revisão sistemática concluiu que os resultados para o uso de contraceptivos hormonais para mulheres com asma foram mistos, com aumento ou redução dos seguintes riscos: novo episódio de asma e aumento da frequência das crises e dos sibilos. O uso da contracepção hormonal em pacientes obesas portadoras de asma é controverso. Conclusão: Os resultados para o uso de contraceptivos hormonais em mulheres com asma são inconsistentes, com relatos de aumento ou de redução do risco de novos episódios. O uso do método contraceptivo deve ser discutido individualmente, levando-se em consideração outros fatores de risco associados e o desejo da mulher. A paciente deverá ser orientada se houver piora dos sintomas clínicos de asma na vigência do uso de qualquer método contraceptivo hormonal.

Objective: To analyze the use of hormonal contraceptives in women with asthma and the choice of this contraceptive method for this population, evaluating possible repercussions on new episodes of asthma and wheezing. Methods: Longitudinal studies, clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses were selected. Platforms consulted: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, SciELO, using the descriptors: "contraception", "hormonal contraception", "levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system" and "asthma". Results: Two large studies demonstrated that the use of hormonal contraceptives was associated with a reduced risk of new episodes of asthma. A systematic review concluded that the results for the use of hormonal contraceptives for women with asthma were mixed, with increased or decrease in the following risks: new asthma episodes, increased frequency and wheezing. The use of hormonal contraception in obese patients with asthma is controversial. Conclusion: The results for the use of hormonal contraceptives in women with asthma are inconsistent, with reports of increased or reduced risk of new episodes. The use of the contraceptive method should be discussed individually, taking into account other associated risk factors and the woman's desire. The patient will be advised if there is a worsening of the clinical symptoms of asthma while using any hormonal contraceptive method.

Control de síntomas al final de la vida con Dexmedetomidina: Estudio observacional de centro único / End-of-life symptom control with dexmedetomidine: A single-center observational study

Introducción: El manejo de los síntomas refractarios con dexmetomidina (DXM) es una alternativa en pacientes oncológicos en la atención al final de la vida (AFV) lo que puede convertirse en un gran desafío, ante la necesidad de iniciar sedación paliativa. El objetivo del presente estudio es determinar el efecto de la DXM comparado con el midazolam (MDZ) en el control de síntomas refractarios en pacientes con cáncer avanzado AFV, como parte de una estrategia asistencial de sedación paliativa. Metodología: Estudio observacional, longitudinal, se revisaron los informes médicos en las historias clínicas de pacientes hospitalizados con diagnóstico de cáncer avanzado terminal y síntomas refractarios (dolor, disnea y delirio), que recibieron sedación paliativa con DXM o MDZ. Se utilizaron los registros de Escala de Evaluación de Síntomas de Edmonton - revisada (ESAS-r) para intensidad de síntomas y la Escala de Sedación/Agitación de Richmond (RASS) para respuesta a la sedación. Resultados: Un total de 35 pacientes recibieron DXM y 18 MDZ. El dolor (32 %) y delirio (30 %) fueron los síntomas refractarios más identificados. Dolor intenso en 89.3 % antes del inicio de DXM. A las 72 horas, el grupo DXM presentó disminución de la intensidad del delirio a leve y moderado, mientras que la mayoría de los pacientes del grupo MDZ fallecieron antes de las 72 horas. Conclusiones: El uso clínico de la DXM permite un enfoque multimodal, ampliando su utilidad en la atención al final de la vida para el manejo del dolor y delirio, ya que permite un estado de respuesta para la interacción con los miembros de la familia, función relevante en cuidados paliativos.

Introduction: Managing refractory symptoms with dexmedetomidine (DXM) is an alternative for cancer patients in end-of-life care (EOLC), which can become a great challenge, given the need to start palliative sedation. This study aims to determine the effect of DXM compared to midazolam (MDZ) in controlling refractory symptoms in patients with advanced EOLC cancer as part of a palliative sedation care strategy. Methodology: In this observational, longitudinal study, the medical reports in the medical records of hospitalized patients diagnosed with terminal advanced cancer and refractory symptoms (pain, dyspnea, and delirium) who received palliative sedation with DXM or MDZ were reviewed. The Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale-revised (ESAS-r) scores for symptom intensity and the Richmond Sedation/Agitation Scale (RASS) for response to sedation were used. Results: A total of 35 patients received DXM, and 18 received MDZ. Pain (32%) and delirium (30%) were the most identified refractory symptoms. Intense pain in 89.3% before DXM started; at 72 hours in 64.3%, the pain was reported as mild. Delirium was severe in 77.7%, DXM was used in 59.3%, and MDZ was used in 40.7%. At 72 hours, the DXM group presented a decrease in delirium intensity to mild and moderate, while most of the patients in the MDZ group died before 72 hours. Conclusions: The clinical use of DXM allows a multimodal approach, expanding its usefulness in end-of-life care for managing pain and delirium since it provides a state of response for interaction with family members, a function relevant in palliative care.

Enfermedad de Pompe y compromiso respiratorio / Pompe Disease and Respiratory Impairment

Introducción: El compromiso respiratorio en la enfermedad de Pompe es una de sus manifestaciones más frecuentes, tiene un impacto negativo en la calidad de vida y facilita la aparición de múltiples complicaciones. Se puede presentar como parte evolutiva de la enfermedad o incluso ser el síntoma inicial de la patología. Contenidos: La presentación clínica del compromiso respiratorio en la enfermedad de Pompe se caracteriza por disnea, ortopnea, cefalea y tos, y sus cambios paraclínicos incluyen hipercapnia, policitemia, elevación del índice de apnea/hipopnea, así como disminución de la capacidad vital y de las presiones inspiratoria y espiratorias máximas. El compromiso respiratorio es causado principalmente por disfunción muscular (especialmente el diafragma) y alteración de la regulación del sistema nervioso central. Conclusiones: Es fundamental la valoración acuciosa inicial de los patrones respiratorios y por supuesto su seguimiento, el cual dependerá del tipo de progresión de la disfunción respiratoria (rápida o lenta) o del requerimiento específico para cada paciente (ventilación no invasiva o invasiva).

Introduction: Respiratory compromise in Pompe disease is one of the most frequent manifestations, which has a negative impact on quality of life and leads to multiple complications. This can occur as an evolutionary part of the disease, or even be the initial symptom of the pathology. Contents: Its clinical presentation is characterized by dyspnea, orthopnea, headache, and cough, and its paraclinical changes include hypercapnia, polycythemia, elevated apnea/hypopnea index, decreased vital capacity, and decreased maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressures. Respiratory compromise is caused mainly by muscular dysfunction (especially the diaphragm) and alteration of regulation of the central nervous system. Conclusions: An initial careful assessment of respiratory patterns is essential, and of course their follow-up, that will depend of the type of progression of respiratory dysfunction (rapid or slow) or the specific requirement for each patient (non-invasive or invasive ventilation).

Relación entre la distancia recorrida en la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos y el sexo, la edad, comorbilidades y la disnea en pacientes con EPOC / Relationship between the Distance Traveled in the Test of 6- Minute Walk and Sex, Age, Comorbidities and Dyspnea in Patients with CORP

Introducción: la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es un trastorno res-piratorio caracterizado por síntomas clínicos y compromiso funcional que afecta la ca-pacidad aeróbica limitando las actividades cotidianas y la calidad de vida. La prueba de caminata de 6 minutos (C6M) es una prueba sencilla y de bajo costo que evalúa la capa-cidad de los pacientes para realizar sus actividades cotidianas. Objetivo: evaluar la re-lación entre la capacidad aeróbica medida por la distancia recorrida en la C6M y el se-xo, edad, disnea y comorbilidades cardiometabólicas en pacientes con EPOC. Material y métodos: estudio de corte transversal, descriptivo, basado en pruebas de caminatas de 6 minutos (C6M) realizadas en pacientes con EPOC. Resultados: se evaluaron 101 pacientes, hombres (63,4%), con una edad promedio de 74,1±8,7 años. Al correlacionar C6M con otras variables se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas. La distancia media recorrida fue mayor en hombres que en mujeres (DM: 58,3 metros, IC 95%; 16 - 100,6, p=0,007). Los pacientes < 75 años, sin comorbilidades y disnea < 2 tu-vieron mejor desempeño en la C6M que los > 75 años (DM; 62,012 metros IC 95% 21,5 - 102,4, p=0,003), con comorbilidades (DM: 42,2 metros, IC 95%, 0.003 - 84,4; p=0,050) y disnea ≥ 2 (DM: 65,8 IC 95% 23,9 - 107,6, p=0,002). Conclusiones: el sexo femenino, la presencia de comorbilidad cardiovascular y metabólica, y la edad se asocian con dis-minución en la capacidad física aeróbica y funcional en los pacientes con EPOC. (AU)

Introduction: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disorder characterized by clinical symptoms and functional impairment that affects aerobic capacity, limiting daily activities and quality of life. The 6-minute walk test (C6M) is a simple, low-cost test that assesses a patient's ability to perform their daily activities. Objective: to evaluate the relationship between aerobic capacity measured by the distance covered in the C6M and gender, age, dyspnea and cardiometabolic comorbidities in patients with COPD. Materials and methods: cross-sectional, descriptive study, based on 6-minute walk tests (C6M) performed in patients with COPD. Results: 101 male patients (63.4%), with a mean age of 74.1 ± 8.7 years, were evaluated. When correlating C6M with other variables, statistically significant differences were found. The mean distance traveled was greater in men than in women (MD: 58.3 meters, 95% CI: 16 - 100.6, p=0.007). Patients <75 years old, without comorbidities and dyspnea <2 had better performance in the C6M than those >75 years old (MD; 62 meters CI 95% 21.5 - 102.4, p=0.003), with comorbidities (MD: 42.2 meters, 95% CI, 0.003 - 84.4; p=0.050) and dyspnea ≥ 2 (MD: 65.8, 95% CI 23.9 - 107.6, p=0.002). Conclusions: female sex, the presence of cardiovascular and metabolic comorbidity, and age are associated with decreased aerobic and functional physical capacity in patients with COPD. (AU)

Impacto de las exacerbaciones en la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica / Impact of Exacerbations on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es la tercera causa de muerte en todo el mundo. Sin embargo, ante la falta de herramientas diagnósticas precisas en el primer nivel de atención médica, como la espirometría, es difícil determinar la prevalen-cia real de la EPOC.Por otro lado, la falta de una definición clara y precisa de las exacerbaciones de la EPOC hace que se subestime su impacto en la salud pública; habitualmente, los pacien-tes con EPOC que cursan una exacerbación retrasan la búsqueda de atención médica inmediata porque se acostumbran al deterioro asociado a la enfermedad o lo confun-den con cambios por la edad avanzada. Esto puede provocar un aumento de la mor-bilidad y la mortalidad, asimismo, mayor utilización de los recursos sanitarios y mayor carga económica. Por lo tanto, es importante sensibilizar sobre la importancia del diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento adecuado de las exacerbaciones de la EPOC, del mismo modo que el mayor conocimiento público de los síntomas, las causas y los factores de riesgo de la EPOC. Con ello, se podrán aplicar estrategias de prevención, diagnóstico y tratamiento más eficaces que mejoren la calidad de vida de los pacientes y disminuyan la carga de la enfermedad para la sociedad.Esta revisión ofrece un análisis crítico de la definición más reciente y esboza las impli-caciones del comportamiento de las exacerbaciones, su impacto en los distintos ám-bitos del sistema sanitario, así como en las diferentes esferas de la vida de los pacien-tes con EPOC. (AU)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common disease and the third leading cause of death worldwide. However, due to the lack of accurate diagnostic tools at the first level of care, such as spirometry, the true prevalence of COPD is difficult to determine.In addition, the lack of a clear definition of COPD exacerbations means that its pub-lic health impact is underestimated. Patients with COPD often do not seek immediate medical attention because they become used to the deterioration associated with the disease. This can lead to increased patient morbidity and mortality, as well as increased utilization of healthcare resources and higher economic costs. Therefore, it is important to promote greater awareness of the importance of early di-agnosis and proper management of COPD exacerbations, as well as increased public awareness of COPD symptoms, etiologic agents, and risk factors.By better understanding COPD exacerbations, more effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment strategies can be implemented to improve the quality of life of patients and reduce the burden of the disease on society.This review aims to provide a critical analysis of the most recent definition and to out-line the implications of the behavior of COPD exacerbations and their impact on the dif-ferent settings of the health care system, as well as on the different spheres of patients' lives. (AU)

Achados tomográficos incidentais de calcificações coronarianas: um estudo de prevalência na região sul do Brasil / Incidental tomographic findings of coronary artery calcifications: a prevalence study in southern Brazil

Fundamento: As calcificações de artérias coronárias (CAC) mostram-se como fator preditivo de doenças cardiovasculares (DCV). A tomografia computadorizada (TC) de tórax com protocolo de aquisição de baixa dose apresenta acurácia na identificação de CAC e propicia achados incidentais dessas calcificações, que são comumente negligenciados. Este estudo analisará a prevalência de achados incidentais de calcificação em artérias coronárias em indivíduos não cardiopatas submetidos à TC de tórax. Métodos: Estudo transversal consecutivo de caráter analítico e descritivo. Foram incluídos indivíduos de ambos os sexos que realizaram TC de tórax por encaminhamento, acima de 18 anos e não cardiopatas. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de prontuários e ficha de anamnese auto aplicada. As variáveis referentes às CAC e à extensão do comprometimento foram obtidas a partir da reavaliação das imagens de TC de tórax disponíveis no sistema da instituição. Os exames foram anonimizados e avaliados por dois médicos radiologistas experientes. Considerou-se como estatisticamente significativo p≤0,05. Resultados: Foram analisados 397 exames. Encontrou-se prevalência de calcificações em 176 (44%) dos casos. A existência dessas calcificações coronárias está relacionada à idade (p<0,001). As calcificações possuem relação com o sexo (p = 0,03) com maior razão de chance de desenvolvimento em homens (odds ratio [OR] = 1,55). O tabagismo (p<0,001), o sedentarismo (p<0,001), a hipertensão arterial sistêmica (p<0,001), o diabetes mellitus (p = 0,04) e as dislipidemias (p<0,001) mostraram associação positiva. Conclusão: A prevalência de achados incidentais de CAC foi de 44%; variam em maior número entre leve e grave; maior razão de chance no sexo masculino e aumento da prevalência com a idade. Portanto, a TC de tórax mostra-se um efetivo método para avaliar as CAC, e juntamente com a história clínica do paciente pode ser utilizada para medir os fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares e intervir no desfecho do quadro.(AU)

Introduction: Coronary artery calcifications (CAC) are shown to be a predictive factor of cardiovascular diseases. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest with a low-dose acquisition protocol is accurate in identifying CAC and provides incidental findings of these calcifications, which are commonly overlooked. This study will analyze the prevalence of incidental findings of calcification in coronary arteries in non-cardiac individuals undergoing chest CT. Methods: Consecutive cross-sectional study of an analytical and descriptive nature. Individuals of both genders who underwent chest CT by referral, over 18 years of age and without heart disease were included. Data collection was carried out using medical records and a self-applied anamnesis form. The variables referring to the CAC and the extension of the impairment were obtained from the reassessment of the chest CT images available in the institution's system. The exams were anonymized and evaluated by two experienced radiologists. P≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: 397 exams were analyzed. A prevalence of calcifications was found in 176 (44%) of the cases. The existence of these coronary calcifications is related to age (p<0.001). Calcifications are related to gender (p = 0.03) with a higher odds ratio of development in men (odds ratio [OR] = 1.55). Smoking (p<0.001), sedentary lifestyle (p<0.001), systemic arterial hypertension (p<0.001), Diabetes Mellitus (p = 0.04), and dyslipidemia (p<0.001) showed a positive association. Conclusion: The prevalence of incidental CAC findings was 44%; vary in greater numbers between mild and severe; higher odds ratio in males and increased prevalence with age. Therefore, chest CT proves to be an effective method to assess CAC, and together with the patient's clinical history, it can be used to measure risk factors for CVD and intervene in the outcome of the condition.(AU)

Infección del miocardio por Mycobacterium tuberculosis: una localización infrecuente de una infección antigua / Myocardial tuberculosis: an infrequent location of a long-standing infection

La tuberculosis miocárdica es una localización infrecuente que, en general, se caracteriza por cuadros clínicos silentes. Su diagnóstico se basa en la alta sospecha clínica y hallazgos inespecíficos en las imágenes cardíacas, pero la histopatología continúa siendo el estándar de oro para establecer el diagnóstico. La terapia antituberculosa ha sido exitosa, presentando mejoría radiológica y clínica en la mayoría de los casos. Presentamos el caso de una infección miocárdica por Mycobacterium tuberculosis en un hombre de 34 años que consultó por un cuadro de disnea de varias semanas de evolución. Se pesquisó un derrame pleural derecho y pericárdico grave, sin signos de taponamiento cardíaco. La RPC para M. tuberculosis en líquido pleural resultó positiva. El estudio histológico de pericardio y miocardio evidenció una pericarditis crónica y una inflamación granulomatosa, no necrosante, con células gigantes multinucleadas en el tejido miocárdico. Se estableció el diagnóstico de tuberculosis pleural, pericárdica y miocárdica y se inició tratamiento antituberculoso, presentando una mejoría clínica significativa.

Myocardial tuberculosis is a rare location that is generally characterized by silent clinical pictures. Diagnosis is based on high clinical suspicion and some nonspecific findings on cardiac imaging, but histological findings remain the gold standard. Treatment with standard antitubercular drugs llave been successful, presenting radiological and clinical improvement in most cases. We report a case of myocardial infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a 34-year-old man, who presented with several weeks of dyspnea and evidence of right pleural effusion and severe pericardial effusion, without signs of cardiac tamponade. PCR for M. tuberculosis was positive in pleural fluid. The histologic study of pericardium and myocardium showed myocardial fibers with non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation with multinucleated giant cells. Due to all the above, a diagnosis of pleural and myocardial tuberculosis was made, and tuberculosis treatment was started with significant clinical improvement.

Evaluación de la disnea y condición clínica en pacientes síntomáticos con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica en un programa de rehabilitacion pulmonar / Assessment of Dyspnea and Clinical Condition in Symptomatic Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) se caracterizan por presentar disnea en reposo y en las actividades de la vida diaria.

Cuidados paliativos em idosos com dispneia: estudo de validação / Cuidados paliativos en el adulto mayor con disnea: estudio de validación / Palliative care in elderly people with dyspnea: A validation study

Objetivo: validar o conteúdo do cenário de simulação clínica sobre assistência ao paciente idoso hospitalizado em cuidados paliativos com dispneia, como ferramenta de ensino para estudantes de graduação em enfermagem. Materiais e método: estudo metodológico desenvolvido em três fases: revisão integrativa da literatura; entrevista com enfermeiros da área de gerontologia e cuidados paliativos; e validação do conteúdo do cenário de simulação. A validação contou com cinco juízes especialistas na área de simulação, gerontologia e cuidados paliativos entre abril e maio de 2022. O cenário criado foi baseado no pressuposto da Fabri: objetivos, material de estudo prévio, preparação, desenvolvimento, debriefing e avaliação. Utilizaram-se estatística descritiva e índice de validade de conteúdo. Resultados: foi identificado que os itens "duração do cenário", "características do paciente", "descrição do caso clínico", "caracterização do ator", "prebriefing" e "avaliação" obtiveram 0,80. O cenário de simulação obteve um valor geral de 0,91. Foram realizados ajustes no cenário referente à clareza da redação, às funcionalidades e à pertinência segundo as sugestões dos juízes. Conclusões: o cenário validado é uma ferramenta que auxilia no ensino da graduação em enfermagem, proporcionando uma formação nas áreas de gerontologia e de cuidados paliativos com um olhar diferenciado, o que pode levar a uma assistência humanizada e de qualidade.

Objetivo: validar el escenario de simulación clínica sobre la asistencia al adulto mayor hospitalizado en cuidados paliativos con disnea como herramienta de enseñanza para estudiantes de pregrado en enfermería. Materiales y método: estudio metodológico desarrollado en tres fases: revisión integrativa de la literatura; entrevista con profesionales de enfermería en el área de gerontología y cuidados paliativos; y validación del escenario de simulación. La validación contó con la participación de cinco jueces expertos en el área de simulación, gerontología y cuidados paliativos, y se llevó a cabo entre abril y mayo de 2022. El escenario creado se basó en el referencial de Fabri: objetivos, material de estudio previo, preparación, desarrollo, debriefing y evaluación. Esta investigación acudió al uso de estadística descriptiva y el índice de validez de contenido. Resultados: se identificó que los ítems "duración del escenario", "características del paciente", "descripción del caso clínico", "caracterización del actor", "prebriefing" y "evaluación" obtuvieron un valor de 0,80. El escenario de simulación obtuvo un valor general de 0,91. Se incorporaron algunos ajustes al escenario con respecto a la claridad de la escritura, las funcionalidades y su relevancia, de acuerdo con las sugerencias de los jueces. Conclusiones: el escenario validado se constituye en una herramienta que contribuirá al proceso de enseñanza del estudiante de enfermería, particularmente a la formación en las áreas de gerontología y cuidados paliativos, proporcionando una mirada diferente que redundará en cuidados de calidad y humanizados.

Objective: To validate the content of a clinical simulation scenario on the care provided to elderly patients with dyspnea hospitalized in palliative care as a teaching tool for undergraduate nursing students. Materials and method: Methodological study developed in three phases, namely: integrative literature review; interviews with nurses in the gerontology and palliative care area; and validation of the simulation scenario content. The validation phased engaged five specialist judges in the area of simulation, gerontology, and palliative care, and was conducted between April and May 2022. The scenario created was based on Fabri's assumption: objectives, previous study material, preparation, development, debriefing, and evaluation. Descriptive statistics and the content validity index were used. Results: The items "duration of the scenario", "patient characteristics", "description of the clinical case", "characterization of the actors", "prebriefing" and "evaluation" obtained a score of 0.80. The simulation scenario obtained an overall value of 0.91. Adjustments on the clarity in writing, functionalities, and the relevance of the scenario were incorporated, according to the judges' suggestions. Conclusions: The validated scenario could become a tool in the training process of undergraduate nursing courses, providing a different perspective for gerontology and palliative care training and fostering humanized and quality care.

Association of face mask use with self-reported cardiovascular symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic

INTRODUCTION@#Countries are mandating the use of face masks to stem the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Face mask use has been associated with discomfort due to its effects on thermoregulation, breathing and oxygenation. We evaluated the prevalence and severity of self-reported cardiovascular symptoms before and during face mask use.@*METHODS@#This was a cross-sectional study of 1,001 participants residing in Singapore, who participated in a self-administered questionnaire between 25 April 2020 and 4 May 2020. Symptom severity before and during mask use, and health-seeking behaviour information were collected. The study outcome was self-reported worsening of cardiovascular symptoms and its association with the type of mask worn, duration of mask worn per day, and intensity of physical activities during mask use.@*RESULTS@#The most common symptom reported during mask use was dyspnoea. Independent predictors for self-reported cardiovascular symptoms during mask use were moderate-high physical activity during mask use (odds ratio [OR] 1.634, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.176-2.270, P = 0.003), duration of mask use for ≥3 h (OR 1.672, 95% CI 1.189-2.352, P = 0.003) and type of mask used, after adjusting for age, sex, healthcare-based worker status and presence of comorbidities. N95 mask was associated with worse symptoms when compared to surgical mask. Participants with ≥3 worsening symptoms or worsening dyspnoea, palpitations, fatigue and dizziness were more likely to seek medical help.@*CONCLUSION@#Face mask use has been proven to be an effective way in curbing COVID-19 transmission. However, participants in this study had concerns regarding its use and these concerns should be urgently addressed to enable mask use policies to be enacted.