Seguimiento de niños con diagnóstico de asma grave antes y durante la pandemia por COVID-19 / Follow-up of children diagnosed with severe asthma before and during the COVID-19 pandemic

En la pandemia por COVID-19 se exploraron estrategias de atención para garantizar el seguimiento de niños con asma grave. Estudio prospectivo, observacional, comparativo. Se incluyeron pacientes del programa de asma grave de un hospital pediátrico de tercer nivel (n 74). Se evaluó el grado de control, exacerbaciones y hospitalizaciones durante un período presencial (PP), marzo 2019-2020, y uno virtual (PV), abril 2020-2021. En el PP, se incluyeron 74 pacientes vs. 68 (92 %) del PV. En el PP, el 68 % (46) de los pacientes presentaron exacerbaciones vs. el 46 % (31) de los pacientes en el PV (p 0,003). En el PP, se registraron 135 exacerbaciones totales vs. 79 en el PV (p 0,001); hubo una reducción del 41 %. En el PP, el 47 % (32) de los pacientes tuvieron exacerbaciones graves vs. el 32 % (22) de los pacientes en el PV (p 0,048). Hubo 91 exacerbaciones graves en el PP vs. 49 en el PV (p 0,029), reducción del 46 %. No hubo diferencias en las hospitalizaciones (PP 10, PV 6; p 0,9). La telemedicina fue efectiva para el seguimiento de pacientes con asma grave

During the COVID-19 pandemic, health care strategies were explored to ensure the follow-up of children with severe asthma. This was a prospective, observational, and comparative study. Patients in the severe asthma program of a tertiary care children's hospital were included (n: 74). The extent of control, exacerbations, and hospitalizations during an in-person period (IPP) (March 2019­2020) and an online period (OP) (April 2020­2021) was assessed. A total of 74 patients were enrolled in the IPP compared to 68 (92%) in the OP. During the IPP, 68% (46) of patients had exacerbations versus 46% (31) during the OP (p = 0.003). During the IPP, 135 total exacerbations were recorded compared to 79 during the OP (p = 0.001); this accounted for a 41% reduction. During the IPP, 47% (32) of patients had severe exacerbations versus 32% (22) during the OP (p = 0.048). A total of 91 severe exacerbations were recorded during the IPP compared to 49 during the OP (p = 0.029); the reduction was 46%. No differences were observed in terms of hospitalization (IPP: 10, OP: 6; p = 0,9). Telemedicine was effective for the follow-up of patients with severe asthma.

Sulfato de magnesio y aminofilina en el tratamiento de niños, niñas y adolescentes hospitalizados. Perfil de uso y respuesta terapéutica

Introducción: Sulfato de magnesio (MgSO4) y aminofilina son broncodilatadores intravenosos utilizados en el tratamiento de niños con broncoobstrucción (BO). La evidencia disponible para recomendar su uso es escasa. Objetivo: Caracterizar el perfil de uso y la respuesta terapéutica al MgSO4 y aminofilina en el tratamiento de la BO en niños hospitalizados en un centro de referencia de Uruguay. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal mediante revisión de historias y entrevistas. Se incluyeron a todos los menores de 15 años que utilizaron estos fármacos. Se evaluó la respuesta terapéutica a la administración de ambos fármacos en forma exclusiva y concomitante y la presencia de efectos adversos. Resultados: Se incluyeron 102 niños, mediana de edad 4 años, ≤5 años 62%. Los principales diagnósticos fueron: crisis asmática 56% y neumonía viral 31%. Recibieron ambos fármacos 48%, únicamente aminofilina 28% y exclusiva de MgSO4 24%. Se observó buena respuesta terapéutica a la administración: exclusiva de MgSO4 67%, consecutiva de MgSO4 y aminofilina 45% y exclusiva de aminofilina en 34%. En 38,2% se registró al menos un efecto adverso, 64% eran menores de 5 años, riesgo aumentado en 1,5 veces. Conclusiones: Se registraron variadas indicaciones, la mayoría en niños asmáticos y en un porcentaje menor indicaciones fuera de prospecto. Menos de la mitad presentaron buena respuesta luego de la administración de MgSO4 y/o aminofilina. En un porcentaje no despreciable se registraron efectos adversos, predominaron en menores de 5 años. Son necesarios nuevos estudios para continuar caracterizando el perfil de uso y seguridad de estos fármacos.

Introduction: Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) and aminophylline are intravenous bronchodilators used in the treatment of children with bronchoobstruction (BO). The evidence available to recommend their use is scarce. Objective: To characterize the use profile and therapeutic response to MgSO4 and aminophylline in the treatment of BO in children hospitalized in a reference center in Uruguay. Materials and methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study through review of clinical histories and interviews. All children under 15 years of age who used these drugs were included. The therapeutic response to the administration of both drugs exclusively and concomitantly and the presence of adverse effects were evaluated. Results: 102 children were included, median age was 4 years, 62% were ≤5 years. The main diagnoses were: asthmatic crisis, 56% and viral pneumonia, 31%. 48% received both drugs, 28% only aminophylline and 24% exclusively MgSO4. Good therapeutic response was observed to the administration: MgSO4 exclusively, 67%, MgSO4 followed by aminophylline, 45% and aminophylline exclusively in 34%. At least one adverse effect was recorded in 38.2%, of these, 64% were under 5 years of age, risk increased by 1.5 times. Conclusions: Various indications were recorded, the majority in asthmatic children and a smaller percentage off-label indications. Less than half had a good response after the administration of MgSO4 and/or aminophylline. Adverse effects were recorded in a non-negligible percentage, predominating in children under 5 years of age. New studies are necessary to continue characterizing the use and safety profile of these drugs.

Asma ocupacional: a propósito de un caso

Se presenta el caso de un trabajador de 31 años que desempeña tareas en un molino de granos desde hace 12 años y que ha desarrollado asma ocupacional. El objetivo del artículo es presentar los fundamentos utilizados para sostener el origen profesional del asma adquirido. Se describen las tareas laborales que desarrolla, materiales y medios de trabajo que utiliza. Se analiza en particular la exposición laboral a polvo orgánico y su vinculación temporal con la sintomatología respiratoria. Esta información permite comprender la importancia de las condiciones en las que realiza el trabajo y la exposición a un factor de riesgo, el polvo orgánico, para el desarrollo de la patología respiratoria laboral. Se realizaron mediciones de volumen máximo espiratorio pulmonar, con técnica de pico flujo, durante la jornada laboral y fuera de ésta. Se observaron variaciones del flujo espiratorio mayores a 20%, tanto durante la jornada laboral como fuera de ella, con similar patrón sintomático, según relata el trabajador. Se concluyó que existe evidencia del nexo causal entre el asma y el trabajo, por lo que se plantea el diagnóstico de asma ocupacional. Se destaca la importancia de evaluar los riesgos laborales en cada actividad para implementar planes de vigilancia de la salud, tanto del operario como del ambiente de trabajo, para prevenir la aparición como la evolución de esta u otras patologías que en muchos casos generan incapacidad para la tarea y deterioro de la calidad de vida de los trabajadores.

We present the case of a 31-year-old worker who has been working in a grain mill for 12 years and has developed work-related asthma. The objective of this article is to present the foundations used to support the occupational origin of the acquired asthma. The study describe the work tasks performed, the materials used, and the working methods. The work-related exposure to organic dust and its temporal relationship with respiratory symptoms is particularly analyzed. This information allows us to understand the importance of working conditions and exposure to organic dust, a risk factor, for the development of this work-related respiratory pathology. Measurements of maximum expiratory lung volume were made using the peak flow technique during and outside of the workday. Expiratory flow variations greater than 20% were observed, both during and outside of the workday, which followed a similar symptomatic pattern as reported by the worker. The study concluded that there is evidence of a causal link between asthma and work, thus suggesting the diagnosis of work-related asthma. The importance of assessing occupational risks in each activity to implement health surveillance plans for both workers and the work environment is highlighted, aiming to prevent the onset and progression of this and other pathologies that often result in work incapacity and deterioration of workers' quality of life.

Apresentamos o caso de um paciente de 31 anos de idade que trabalha em um moinho de grãos há 12 anos e desenvolveu asma ocupacional. O objetivo do artigo é apresentar a justificativa da origem ocupacional da asma adquirida. Descrevemos as tarefas realizadas, os materiais e os meios de trabalho utilizados. Analisamos especialmente a exposição ocupacional à poeira orgânica e sua conexão temporal com a sintomatologia respiratória. Essas informações nos permitem entender a importância das condições em que o trabalho é realizado e a exposição a um fator de risco, a poeira orgânica, para o desenvolvimento da patologia respiratória ocupacional. As medições do volume pulmonar expiratório máximo foram realizadas com a técnica de pico de fluxo durante e fora da jornada de trabalho. Observamos variações no fluxo expiratório superiores a 20%, tanto durante quanto fora do horário de trabalho, com um padrão sintomático semelhante ao relatado pelo trabalhador. Concluímos que há evidências de um nexo causal entre asma e trabalho e, portanto, propomos o diagnóstico de asma ocupacional. Destacamos a importância de avaliar os riscos ocupacionais em cada atividade para implementar planos de vigilância da saúde tanto do trabalhador quanto do ambiente de trabalho, a fim de evitar o surgimento e a evolução dessa ou de outras patologias que, em muitos casos, geram incapacidade para a tarefa e deterioração da qualidade de vida dos trabalhadores.

Serum interleukin-33 combined with FEF75% z-score and FeNO improves the diagnostic accuracy of asthma in children

Abstract Objective To investigate the diagnostic efficacy of serum IL-33 single indicator and combined indicators for asthma in children. Methods 132 children were initially diagnosed with asthma during acute exacerbation and 100 healthy children were included. Serum IL-33 concentration differences were compared between asthmatic and normal children. Correlations between IL-33 with pulmonary function parameters, FeNO, peripheral blood EOS counts and serum total IgE were analyzed in asthmatic children. ROC curves were used to assess IL-33 diagnostic efficacy and its combined indicators. To prevent overfitting of the predictive model, the hold-out cross-validation method was used. Results (1) Serum IL-33 concentrations were significantly higher in children with asthma than in normal children (p < 0.001). (2) IL-33 concentration was negatively correlated with FVC z-score, FEV1 z-score and FEF75% z-score in asthmatic children (p < 0.05). (3) The area under the ROC curve of IL-33 was 0.821, which was higher than those of FeNO, FVC z-score, and FEV1 z-score. (4) Cross-validation of the combined indicators showed that IL-33 significantly improved asthma diagnostic efficacy. The combination of IL-33, FEF75% z-score, and FeNO showed the highest diagnostic efficacy, with the AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of the combined indicator being 0.954, 90.1%, and 89. 0%, respectively, and good extrapolation of the predictive model. Conclusion Serum IL-33 is higher in children with asthma and increases with the severity of pulmonary ventilation obstruction. A single indicator of serum IL-33 demonstrates moderate diagnostic accuracy, and its combination with FEF75% z-score and FeNO significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy in childhood asthma.

Overprescription of short-acting β2 agonists: reflections from the SABINA study in Brazil / Prescrição excessiva de β2-agonistas de curta duração: reflexões a partir do estudo SABINA no Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess prescription patterns for short-acting b2 agonists (SABAs) and other asthma medications in asthma patients treated by specialists and participating in the SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) study in Brazil. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study conducted at five sites in different regions of Brazil. The primary endpoints were to record SABA prescriptions and obtain data on over-the-counter (OTC) SABA purchases at the pharmacy. Results: Data on 218 asthma patients were analyzed. Of those 218 patients, 80.3% were prescribed SABAs in addition to their maintenance therapy, with a mean of 11.2 SABA canisters in the previous 12 months. Of those patients, 71.4% were prescribed ≥ 3 canisters and 42.2% were prescribed ≥ 10 canisters. None of the patients were prescribed SABA monotherapy. A total of 14.2% of the patients reported purchasing SABAs OTC at a pharmacy without a prescription. Of those, 48.4% purchased ≥ 3 SABA canisters. A fixed-dose combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting b2 agonist was prescribed to 95.0% of the patients. In the year before the study visit, 45.0% of the patients received at least one course of oral corticosteroid burst treatment. Asthma was well controlled in 43.1% of the patients, partly controlled in 34.9%, and uncontrolled in 22.0%. Patients reported a mean of 1.1 severe asthma exacerbations, with 49.1% experiencing 1 or more severe exacerbations. Conclusions: Overprescription and OTC purchases of SABAs are common in Brazil, possibly leading to the need for courses of oral corticosteroids. The health care community should collaborate to implement evidence-based recommendations and promote health education to improve asthma management in Brazil.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os padrões de prescrição de short-acting b2 agonists (SABAs, b2-agonistas de curta duração) e outros medicamentos para asma em pacientes tratados por especialistas e participantes do estudo SABA use IN Asthma (SABINA) no Brasil. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal observacional realizado em cinco locais em diferentes regiões do Brasil. Os desfechos primários foram registrar as prescrições de SABAs e obter dados a respeito da compra de SABAs sem receita médica na farmácia. Resultados: Foram analisados dados a respeito de 218 pacientes com asma. Dos 218 pacientes, 80,3% receberam prescrição de SABA além da terapia de manutenção, com uma média de 11,2 frascos de SABA nos 12 meses anteriores. Destes, 71,4% receberam prescrição de ≥ 3 frascos e 42,2% receberam prescrição de ≥ 10 frascos. Nenhum dos pacientes recebeu prescrição de monoterapia com SABA. Do total de pacientes, 14,2% relataram que compraram SABAs sem receita médica na farmácia. Destes, 48,4% compraram ≥ 3 frascos de SABA. Foram prescritas doses fixas combinadas de corticosteroide inalatório e b2-agonista de longa duração para 95,0% dos pacientes. No ano anterior à visita do estudo, 45,0% dos pacientes receberam pelo menos um ciclo de tratamento de curta duração com corticosteroide oral. A asma estava bem controlada em 43,1% dos pacientes, parcialmente controlada em 34,9% e não controlada em 22,0%. Os pacientes relataram uma média de 1,1 exacerbações graves da asma, sendo que 49,1% apresentaram uma ou mais exacerbações graves. Conclusões: A prescrição excessiva e a compra de SABAs sem receita médica são comuns no Brasil e possivelmente levam à necessidade de uso de corticosteroides orais. A comunidade de profissionais de saúde deve colaborar para implantar recomendações baseadas em evidências e promover a educação em saúde para melhorar o manejo da asma no Brasil.

Disfunções respiratórias felinas: caracterizando e diferenciando a asma e bronquite felinas / Feline respiratory dysfunctions: characterizing and differentiating feline asthma and bronchitis / Disfunciones respiratorias felinas: caracterización y diferenciación del asma y bronquitis felinas

As doenças respiratórias são consideradas doenças graves e potencialmente deletérias. Dentre elas, a asma e a bronquite crônica caracterizam-se como disfunções respiratórias que ameaçam constantemente o bem-estar dos gatos. Os pacientes apresentam mudanças na estrutura respiratória, reversíveis ou não, devido ao extenso quadro inflamatório, que obstrui o fluxo de ar, permite o acúmulo de muco e reduz o lúmen das vias aéreas. Os gatos acometidos apresentam tosses, respiração ruidosa, dispneia, e, em muitos casos, assumem posição ortopneica. O diagnóstico pode ser obtido através de exames de rotina, uso de radiografias torácicas, coleta e análise de fluidos broncoalveolares, e testes alergênicos. O manejo terapêutico baseia-se, combinado ou não, no uso de drogas como broncodilatadores, antiinflamatórios esteroidais, mucolíticos, antibióticos, agentes inalatórios e mudanças ambientais com objetivo de redução da exposição aos possíveis agentes alergênicos responsáveis pela incitação do quadro respiratório.

Respiratory diseases are considered serious and potentially harmful diseases. Among them, asthma and chronic bronchitis are characterized as respiratory disorders that constantly threaten the well-being of cats. The patients present changes in the respiratory structure, reversible or not, due to the extensive inflammatory condition, which obstructs the air flow, allows the accumulation of mucus and reduces the lumen of the airways. Affected cats have coughs, wheezing, dyspnoea, and in many cases assume an orthopneic position. The diagnosis can be obtained through routine exams, use of chest x-rays, collection and analysis of bronchoalveolar fluids, and allergen testing. Therapeutic management is based, combined or not, on the use of drugs such as bronchodilators, steroidal anti-inflammatory, mucolytics, antibiotics, inhalational agents and environmental changes in order to reduce exposure to possible allergenic agents responsible for the incitation of the respiratory condition.

Las enfermedades respiratorias son consideradas enfermedades graves y potencialmente dañinas. Entre ellos, el asma y la bronquitis crónica se caracterizan por ser trastornos respiratorios que amenazan constantemente el bienestar de los gatos. Los pacientes presentan cambios en la estructura respiratoria, reversibles o no debido al cuadro inflamatorio extenso, que obstruye el flujo de aire, permite la acumulación de moco y reduce la luz de las vías respiratorias. Los gatos afectados presentan tos, respiración ruidosa, disnea y, en muchos casos, adoptan una posición ortopneica. El diagnóstico se puede obtener mediante exámenes de rutina, uso de radiografías de tórax, recolección y análisis de líquidos broncoalveolares, y pruebas de alérgenos. El manejo terapéutico se basa, combinado o no, en el uso de fármacos como broncodilatadores, antiinflamatorios esteroides, mucolíticos, antibióticos, agentes inhalatorios y cambios ambientales con el objetivo de reducir la exposición a posibles agentes alergénicos responsables de incitar la afección respiratoria.

Maternal overweight and obesity before pregnancy as predictors of childhood asthma in children under five years: a retrospective cohort in Peru / Sobrepeso y obesidad materna antes del embarazo como predictores de asma infantil en menores de cinco años: una cohorte retrospectiva en Perú

Abstract Objectives: to estimate the role of maternal overweight and obesity before pregnancy as predictors of childhood asthma in a population of Peruvian children under five years. Methods: we carried out a retrospective cohort study of children aged five years or less and their mothers from the Regional Hospital of Ayacucho and the María Auxiliadora Hospital in Lima, Peru. We included children who were born between 2013 and 2014 and follow them up until 2018 and 2019, respectively. The diagnosis of overweight and obesity of the mother before pregnancy and asthma in the child were registered in their clinical histories. Crude (cRR) and adjusted relative risks (aRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%) were obtained using a generalized lineal model of the Poisson family with link log and robust variances. Results: we evaluated 431 medical records and found that 20.9% of the children had asthma, 26.7% of the mothers were overweight, and 20.2% were obese before pregnancy. In the adjusted regression model, overweight (aRR=2.94; CI95%= 1.54-5.60) and maternal obesity (aRR=5.10; CI95%= 2.73-9.51) were predictors of an increased risk of childhood asthma. Conclusions: maternal overweight and maternal obesity increased the risk of her children developing asthma threeand five-fold, respectively.

Resumen Objetivos: estimar el papel del sobrepeso y la obesidad materna antes del embarazo como predictores de asma infantil en una población de niños peruanos menores de cinco años. Métodos: realizamos un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo de niños de cinco años o menos y sus madres del Hospital Regional de Ayacucho y del Hospital María Auxiliadora de Lima, Perú. Se incluyeron niños nacidos entre 2013 y 2014 y se les dio seguimiento hasta 2018 y 2019, respectivamente. El diagnóstico de sobrepeso y obesidad de la madre antes del embarazo y asma en el niño fueron registrados en sus historias clínicas. Los riesgos relativos crudos (cRR) y ajustados (RRa) y los intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC95%) se obtuvieron mediante un modelo lineal generalizado de la familia de Poisson con log de enlace y varianzas robustas. Resultados: se evaluaron 431 historias clínicas y se encontró que el 20,9% de los niños tenían asma, el 26,7% de las madres tenían sobrepeso y el 20,2% eran obesas antes del embarazo. En el modelo de regresión ajustada, el sobrepeso (aRR=2,94; IC95%= 1,54-5,60) y obesidad materna (RRa=5,10; IC95%= 2,73-9,51) fueron predictores de un mayor riesgo de asma infantil. Conclusiones: el sobrepeso materno y la obesidad materna aumentaron tres y cinco veces el riesgo de que sus hijos desarrollaran asma, respectivamente.

Mapping the literature on the qualitative approach to childhood asthma from 1996 to 2018: a bibliometric analysis / Mapeo de la literatura sobre el enfoque cualitativo del asma infantil desde 1996 hasta 2018: un análisis bibliométrico

Resumo Objectives: to describe the scientific production of qualitative studies in childhood asthma. Methods: bibliometric analysis. Articles were from Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and PubMed (1996-2018), using the search terms asthma, children, qualitative research, qualitative study, qualitative analysis, ethnographic, phenomenology and narrative. Results: 258 articles were retrieved from 143 journals, representing 1.2% of scientific articles on childhood asthma. The growth rate was high. Authorship included 969 authors (85.3% occasional) from 279 institutions. 94.2% were co-authored and 3.5% were international collaborations. The greatest number of articles were from the United States (45.3%), United Kingdom (17.4%) and Canada (7.4%). The categories with the highest number of articles were Nursing & Public, Environmental & Occupational Health (18.2%), Respiratory System (10.1%) and Allergy (7.7%). 99.7% of the articles were in English. Conclusion: these results show a lack of consolidation of the literature based on qualitative studies on childhood asthma with a high percentage of occasional authors and limited international collaboration, indicating a need to strengthen this approach.

Resumen Objetivos: describir la producción científica de los estudios cualitativos sobre el asma infantil. Métodos: análisis bibliométrico. Los artículos procedían de Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane y PubMed (1996-2018), utilizando los términos de búsqueda asthma, children, qualitative research, qualitative study, qualitative analysis, ethnographic, phenomenology y narrative. Resultados: se recuperaron 258 artículos de 143 revistas, lo que representa el 1,2% de los artículos científicos sobre asma infantil. La tasa de crecimiento fue elevada. La autoría incluyó 969 autores (85,3% ocasionales) de 279 instituciones. El 94,2% fueron coautores y el 3,5% colaboraciones internacionales. El mayor número de artículos procedió de Estados Unidos (45,3%), Reino Unido (17,4%) y Canadá (7,4%). Las categorías con mayor número de artículos fueron Enfermería y Salud Pública, Ambiental y Ocupacional (18,2%), Aparato Respiratorio (10,1%) y Alergia (7,7%). El 99,7% de los artículos estaban en inglés. Conclusión: estos resultados muestran una falta de consolidación de la literatura basada en estudios cualitativos sobre el asma infantil, con un alto porcentaje de autores ocasionales y una limitada colaboración internacional, lo que indica la necesidad de reforzar este enfoque.

Análisis bibliométrico de la producción científica cubana sobre asma en Scopus

Introducción: El asma es una entidad con alta prevalencia a nivel mundial y en Cuba, que ha suscitado nuevas investigaciones. Objetivo: Caracterizar la producción científica cubana sobre asma en la base de datos Scopus. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y bibliométrico de los artículos publicados sobre asma en Scopus con autores cubanos, desde 1973 hasta 2021. Para la recuperación de los registros se empleó una fórmula de búsqueda. Para el análisis de los datos se usaron los software Bibexcel y VOSviewer. Resultados: Se publicaron 154 investigaciones sobre asma, con predominio de artículos originales (136) y de revisión (12). Las áreas más productivas fueron Medicina (144) e Inmunología y Microbiología (34). Los artículos fueron publicados en 48 revistas; de ellas, 11 fueron cubanas, con la Revista Cubana de Medicina como la más productiva. México aportó el mayor número de colaboraciones (10). El Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Docente General Calixto García (15) fue el más productivo. Se identificaron tres clústeres de palabras clave, con "human", "asthma" y "Cuban" como términos centrales y de mayor ocurrencia. Conclusiones: Existió una baja producción científica sobre asma, centrada principalmente en artículos originales, en el área de Medicina y en revistas nacionales. Se evidenció colaboración internacional. Los ejes principales de investigación fueron el diagnóstico, tratamiento, investigación básica en modelos animales, nuevas terapéuticas, factores de riesgo y prevención.

Introduction: Asthma is an entity with high prevalence worldwide and in Cuba, which has prompted new research. Objective: To characterize Cuban scientific production on asthma in the Scopus database. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive and bibliometric study was carried out on articles on asthma published in Scopus by Cuban authors, from 1973 to 2021. A search formula was used to retrieve the records. Bibexcel and VOSviewer were used for data analysis. Results: 154 research papers on asthma were published; with a predominance of original (136) and review articles (12). The most productive areas were Medicine (144) and Immunology and Microbiology (34). Articles were published in 48 journals, of which 11 were Cuban, with the Revista Cubana de Medicina (Cuban Journal of Medicine) being the most productive. Mexico contributed the highest number of collaborations (10). The Teaching Hospital General Calixto García (15) was the most productive. 3 key word clusters were identified, with "human", "asthma" and "Cuban" as central and most occurring terms. Conclusions: There was a low scientific production on asthma, mainly focused on original articles, in the area of Medicine and in national journals. International collaboration was evident. The main areas of research were diagnosis, treatment, basic research in animal models, new therapeutics, risk factors and prevention.

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.

Birth weight and asthma in young adults of a Brazilian birth cohort / Peso ao nascer e asma em adultos jovens de um coorte brasileiro de nascimentos

Abstract This article aims to evaluate the association between birth weight and asthma in adulthood, estimated by employing structural equation modeling. Cohort study with 1,958 participants aged 23-25 years from Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. Standardized questionnaires were applied and pulmonary function evaluated, including bronchial reactivity with methacholine. A theoretical model was proposed to explore the effects of birth weight and asthma in adulthood. Asthma, socioeconomic status at birth (Birth SES), and current socioeconomic status (Adult SES) were obtained by constructs. Maternal age, sex, skin color, body mass index (BMI), smoking, parental asthma history, history of respiratory infection before five years old, history of hospitalization for lung disease before two years old, and atopy were the studied variables. 14.1% of participants were diagnosed with asthma. Birth weight was associated with asthma (Standardized Coefficient - SCtotal=-0.110; p=0.030), and an indirect effect was also observed (SCindirect=-0.220; p=0.037), mediated by hospitalization before two years and respiratory infection before five years. Lower birth weight showed an increased risk of asthma in adulthood and the SES Birth and Adult SES variables underlie this association.

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar associação entre peso ao nascer e asma na vida adulta pela análise de equações estruturais. Estudo de coorte com 1.958 participantes de 23-25 anos, residentes em Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil. Foram aplicados questionários padronizados e avaliado a função pulmonar, incluindo hiper-reatividade brônquica com metacolina. O modelo teórico foi proposto para explorar os efeitos do peso ao nascer e asma na vida adulta. Asma, status socioeconômico ao nascimento (SES Nascimento) e status socioeconômico adulto (SES adulto) foram obtidos por um construto. Variáveis estudadas: idade materna, idade, sexo, cor da pele, índice de massa corporal (IMC), tabagismo, história de asma dos pais, história de infecção respiratória antes dos cinco anos, história de internação por doença pulmonar antes dos dois anos e atopia. 14,1% dos participantes foram diagnosticados com asma. Peso ao nascer foi associado com asma (Coeficiente Padronizado - CPtotal=-0,110; p=0,030), e foi observado efeito indireto (CPindireto=-0,220; p=0,037), mediado por internação antes dos dois anos e infecção respiratória antes dos 5 anos. Menor peso ao nascer aumentou o risco para asma na vida adulta e as variáveis SES Nascimento e SES adulto foram subjacentes a esta associação.

Asthma in the Brazilian Unified Health Care System: an epidemiological analysis from 2008 to 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the number of hospitalizations, the length of hospital stay, and mortality due to asthma, as well as the costs to the Unified Health Care System in Brazil between 2008 and 2021. Methods: This was a cross-sectional epidemiological study using data from the Information Technology Department of the Brazilian Unified Health Care System. Proportional hospitalization and death rates were estimated per 100,000 population by age, microregion, and year. Results: The number of hospitalizations and deaths due to asthma decreased from 2008 to 2021 (205,392 vs. 55,009 and 822 vs. 327, respectively). In addition, a between-sex difference was observed in asthma-related hospitalizations in 2008, and more men were hospitalized in 2021 (51.8%). Asthma mortality rates were similar for both sexes (50.0% each) in 2008, and a slight increase was observed in women's deaths in 2021 (52.9%). Even so, approximately one death/day and more than 55,000 hospitalizations were observed yearly, with a mean length of hospital stay of three days. Additionally, the Southeast region allocated more financial resources to asthma-related hospitalizations. Conclusions: Our results showed that the number of deaths and hospitalizations due to asthma substantially declined during the study period.

Microbial variations in sputum cultures among hospitalized patients with community-acquired pneumonia: differences in sputum microbiota between asthma and COPD patients

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess differences in the sputum microbiota of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) patients with either COPD or asthma, specifically focusing on a patient population in Turkey. Methods: This retrospective study included hospitalized patients > 18 years of age with a diagnosis of pneumonia between January of 2021 and January of 2023. Participants were recruited from two hospitals, and three patient groups were considered: CAP patients with asthma, CAP patients with COPD, and CAP patients without COPD or asthma. Results: A total of 246 patients with CAP were included in the study, 184 (74.8%) and 62 (25.2%) being males and females, with a mean age of 66 ± 14 years. Among the participants, 52.9% had COPD, 14.2% had asthma, and 32.9% had CAP but no COPD or asthma. Upon analysis of sputum cultures, positive sputum culture growth was observed in 52.9% of patients. The most commonly isolated microorganisms were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 40), Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 20), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 16), and Moraxella catarrhalis (n = 8). CAP patients with COPD were more likely to have a positive sputum culture (p = 0.038), a history of antibiotic use within the past three months (p = 0.03), utilization of long-term home oxygen therapy (p < 0.001), and use of noninvasive ventilation (p = 0.001) when compared with the other patient groups. Additionally, CAP patients with COPD had a higher CURB-65 score when compared with CAP patients with asthma (p = 0.004). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that CAP patients with COPD tend to have more severe presentations, while CAP patients with asthma show varied microbial profiles, underscoring the need for patient-specific management strategies in CAP.

Risk factors and determinants of pulmonary function impairments in chronic respiratory diseases in Ethiopia: A hospital-based cross-sectional study

Introduction: Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are diseases of the lung airways and parenchyma. Globally, they are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to characterize the common CRDs, along with their lung function and possible determinants in symptomatic patients attending Bishoftu General Hospital, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sessional study was conducted at the outpatient of Bishoftu Hospital, Ethiopia from June 2019 to March 2020. Consecutive adult patients aged 18 and above with CRDs (≥8 weeks) were recruited. Questionnaires were used to collect data on demographics, symptoms, diagnoses, and putative risk factors. Lung function was measured by spirometry. Result: A total of 170 participants were recruited, the majority 102(60.0%) were female. The mean age was 49 years (SD=16). The most common symptoms were wheezing in the last twelve months 156 (91.8%), cough 138 (81.2%), and severe exertional breathlessness 137 (80.6%). Thirty-nine (22.9%) were either active or passive smokers. Half of the patients (50.3%) were exposed daily to vapors, dust, gases, or fumes and 58 (34.3%) were exposed to biomass smoke. In total, 138 (81.2%) had a positive allergen skin prick test. Chronic bronchitis (49.1%) and asthma (36.1%) were the most common clinical diagnoses. Classification of lung function revealed 23 (15%) normal, 29 (19%) obstructive, 36(23.5%) restrictive and 61(39.9%) mixed patterns. Airflow obstruction was independently associated with increasing age (p<0.05), exertional breathlessness (p<0.001), previous history of asthma (p<0.05), BMI (p<0.05), and doctor-diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p<0.001) and asthma (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study shows a high burden of abnormal lung function in patients attending clinics because of CRDs symptoms. These findings support the critical need for spirometry services to determine lung abnormality in patients with chronic respiratory symptoms.

Aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques et thérapeutiques de l'asthme de l'enfant dans le département de pédiatrie du CHU Gabriel Touré / Epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects of childhood asthma in the department of pediatrics of the Gabriel Touré university hospital

Introduction: L'asthme est la maladie chronique de l'enfant la plus fréquente. Il estl'une des principales causes de consultations aux urgences, d'hospitalisation et d'absentéisme scolaire.L'asthme est un véritable problème de santé publique. La prévalence de cette maladie ne cesse d'augmenter dans le monde entier. Patients et méthode : Nous avions mené une étude prospective, auprès des enfants asthmatiques sur une période d'une année, de Janvier 2018à décembre 2018. Résultats : Nous avions recensé105 patients asthmatiques pour un total de 14344 consultations soit une fréquence de 0,73%. Le sex ratio était de 1.9, La tranche d'âge 2-5 ans était la plus fréquente soit 52%, l'âge de la première crise se situait généralement entre 1 et 2 ans soit 75.24%. Nous avions observé que près de 22% des crises survenaient au mois de décembre (21.90%). La fumée et l'humiditéétaient les principaux facteurs déclenchants. Tous les malades avaient bénéficié de la nébulisation par lesB 2 mimétiques. Conclusion : l'éducation de l'enfant asthmatique ainsi que de sa famille et la mise en place de protocoles standards de prise en charge pourraient réduire de façon considérable la morbidité liée à l'asthme dans nos pays

Introduction : Asthma is the most common chronic disease of children. It is a leading cause of emergency room visits, hospitalization and school absenteeism. Asthma is a real public health problem. The prevalence of this disease is increasing worldwide. Patients and method: We had conducted a prospective study, among children with asthma over a period of one year, from January 2018 to December 2018. Results: We counted 105 asthmatic patients for a total of 14344 consultations, or a frequency of 0,73%. The sex ratio was 1,9, the age group 2-5 years was the most frequent, (52%), the age of the first attack was generally between 1 and 2 years, ( 75,24%). We observed that almost 22% of the attacks occurred in December (21,90%). Smoke and humidity were the main triggers. All the patients had benefited from nebulization with B 2 mimetics. Conclusion: Education of asthmatic children, their families and the establishment of standard management protocols could significantly reduce asthmarelated morbidity in our countries.

Regulation of Immune Balance by Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treatment of Cough Variant Asthma： A Review / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Cough variant asthma （CVA） is a chronic respiratory disease with cough as its main symptom. The occurrence of CVA is closely related to non-specific airway inflammation， and its pathogenesis involves environmental， genetic， immune， and other factors. In recent years， the advantages of traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） in the treatment of CVA have attracted the attention of experts and scholars in China and abroad， especially its prominent role in regulating immune balance， relieving cough symptoms in CVA patients， and reducing recurrence. T Helper cells 1 （Th1）， T helper cells 2 （Th2）， T helper cells 17 （Th17）， and regulatory T cells （Treg） are derived from CD4+ T cells. Immune imbalance of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg is a new hotspot in the pathogenesis of CVA and a potential key target in the treatment of CVA by TCM. Th cell subsets are in dynamic balance under physiological conditions， maintaining respiratory immune homeostasis in which pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines are balanced. Immature helper T cells （Th0） can be differentiated into Th1， Th2， Th17， Treg， and other cell subsets due to cytokine types in the microenvironment in the stage of CVA maturation. The proliferation of Th2 cells leads to eosinophilic airway inflammation. Excessive differentiation of Th17 cells induces neutrophil airway inflammation. Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg cells are mutually restricted in number and function， and the immune imbalance of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg is easy to aggravate the generation of inflammatory response. Restoring immune balance is particularly important for the airway anti-inflammatory therapy of CVA. In this paper， the imbalance of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg and the pathogenesis of CVA were systematically expounded. Meanwhile， the latest research on the regulation of immune imbalance by TCM compound， single TCM， and its effective ingredients in the treatment of CVA was reviewed. It provides ideas and references for revealing the scientific connotation of TCM regulating immune balance therapy of CVA， as well as the development of clinical treatment and basic research of CVA.

Effects of Guben Fangxiao Beverage （固本防哮饮） on Lung Tissue Oxidative Stress and AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway in Mice with Bronchial Asthma in Remission / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the possible mechanism of Guben Fangxiao Beverage （固本防哮饮） for the prevention and treatment of chronic airway inflammation during asthma remission. MethodsThirty-six female Balb/c mice were randomly divided into normal group， model group， low-， medium-， and high-dose of Guben Fangxiao Beverage group and montelukast sodium group， with 6 mice in each group. Except for the normal group， ovalbumin and respiratory syncytial virus were used in other groups to establish a mouse model of bronchial asthma in remission stage. After molding， the low-， medium-， and high-dose groups of Guben Fangxiao Beverage were respectively given 12， 24， and 36 g/（kg·d）， the montelukast sodium group was given montelukast sodium granule 2.6 mg/（kg·d）， and the mice in the normal group and model group were given 20 ml of double-distilled water， all by gavage， once a day for 28 days. The levels of interleukin 4 （IL-4） and interleukin 5 （IL-5） in the lung tissue of mice were detected； HE staining was used to observe the pathology of the lung tissue and to score the inflammation； DHE staining was used to observe the level of reactive oxygen species （ROS） in the lung tissue， and the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ， Ⅱ， Ⅲ， Ⅳ， and Ⅴ in the lung tissue were detected； the levels of serum superoxide dismutase （SOD）， catalase （CAT）， malondialdehyde （MDA） and adenosine triphosphate （ATP） were detected； the protein expression levels of phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase （p-AMPK）， nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 （Nrf2）， haem oxygenase 1 （HO-1） and cAMP responsive element binding protein （CREB） in the lung tissues of the model group were detected by Western blot. ResultsCompared with the normal group， the histopathological results of the lungs of mice in the model group showed an increase in inflammatory cells around the airways and an increase in inflammatory score； DHE staining showed an increase in the level of ROS， and an increase in the levels of IL-4 and IL-5 in the lung tissues； the levels of serum SOD， CAT， and ATP were reduced， and the level of MDA was elevated； the activities of the mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ， Ⅱ， Ⅲ， Ⅳ， and Ⅴ of the lung tissues were reduced， and the activities of p-AMPK， Nrf2， CREB protein expression decreased （P＜0.05）. Compared with the model group， the lung tissue inflammatory cells and inflammation scores of mice in each Guben Fangxiao Beverage dose group and montelukast sodium group were reduced； the levels of ROS， IL-4 and IL-5 in the lung tissue were reduced； the levels of CAT and ATP in the serum increased， and the content of MDA was reduced； and the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ and Ⅱ， as well as the expression of CREB protein， were elevated in the lung tissue （P＜0.05）. Compared with the high-dose group， the MDA level of the medium-dose Guben Fangxiao Beverage group decreased （P＜0.05）. The activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex V in the medium-dose group was higher than that in the montelukast sodium group， and the activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex Ⅳ in the medium- and high-dose groups was higher than that in the low-dose group （P＜0.05）. ConclusionGuben Fangxiao Beverage can inhibit oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function to relieve chronic airway inflammation in bronchial asthma model mice during asthma remission， and its mechanism may be related to the activation of AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Relationship between self-reported occupational noise exposure and expression levels of plasma inflammatory cytokines in adult asthmatic patients / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objectives To investigate the relationship between self-reported occupational noise exposure and levels of plasma inflammatory cytokines in asthmatic patients. Methods A total of 910 adult asthmatic patients were selected as the study subjects, and their occupational noise exposure history and other related information were collected. The peripheral blood samples were collected from the patients, and the expression levels of plasma soluble CD14 (sCD14), complement factor D (CFD), Eotaxin-11 (CCL11), and IL-9 were determined. The relationship between self-reported occupational noise exposure and the expression levels of the four inflammatory cytokines in patients’ plasma were analyzed using multiple linear regression models. The interactions between confounding factors and self-reported occupational noise exposure were further analyzed by interaction analysis. Results The plasma CCL11, sCD14 and CFD expressions in asthmatic patients with self-reported occupational noise exposure were significantly higher than those in patients without the exposure (P<0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, compared with patients reporting no occupational noise exposure, the plasma CFD expression was increased by 0.17 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.31) natural logarithm units in patients with self-reported occupational noise exposure. During remission, the levels of plasma CCL11 and sCD14 in asthmatic patients with self-reported occupational noise exposure were increased by 0.27 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.49) and 0.22 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.41) natural logarithm units, respectively, when compared with patients without the exposure. Interaction analysis showed that self-reported occupational noise exposure had significant multiplicative interaction with smoking or pet ownership on plasma CCL11 or CFD expressions in asthmatic patients (all P<0.05). Conclusion Self-reported occupational noise exposure is significantly associated with increased expression levels of plasma CFD, CCL11, and sCD14 in adult asthmatic patients.

Value of biotargeted drugs in airway mucus therapy of asthma / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

Airway mucus plug is a common phenotype in asthma that increases the risk of acute asthma attacks by causing aggravation of airflow obstruction. Given its important role in asthma, treatment targeting airway mucus plugs may be a strategy to control asthma progression and prevent fatal asthma exacerbations. Previous studies have shown that acidosophils and T2 type inflammation are related with the formation of mucus plugs, and biotargeted drugs targeting the above pathways may be effective in the treatment of airway mucus plugs.