Lineamientos para la prevención y el tratamiento de la osteoporosis inducida por glucocorticoides en pediatría / Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in pediatrics

Objetivo. Proporcionar un marco para profesionales de la salud que tratan a pacientes pediátricos bajo terapia con glucocorticoides (GC) y desarrollar recomendaciones para la prevención y el tratamiento de la osteoporosis inducida por GC en la población pediátrica. Métodos. Un panel de expertos en enfermedades óseas y pediátricas generó una serie de preguntas PICO que abordan aspectos relacionados con la prevención y el tratamiento de osteoporosis en pacientes bajo tratamiento con GC. Siguiendo la metodología GRADE, se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura, se resumieron las estimaciones del efecto y se calificó la calidad de la evidencia. Luego se procedió a la votación y a la formulación de las recomendaciones. Resultados. Se desarrollaron 7 recomendaciones y 6 principios generales para osteoporosis inducida por GC en población pediátrica. Conclusión. Estas recomendaciones proporcionan orientación para los médicos que deben tomar decisiones en pacientes pediátricos bajo tratamiento con GC.

Objective. To provide a framework for healthcare professionals managing pediatric patients who are on active glucocorticoid (GC) therapy and to develop recommendations for the prevention and treatment of GC-induced osteoporosis in the pediatric population. Methods. A panel of experts on bone and pediatric diseases developed a series of PICO questions that address issues related to the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in patients on GC therapy. In accordance with the GRADE approach, we conducted a systematic review of the literature, summarized effect estimations, and classified the quality of the evidence. Then, voting and the formulation of recommendations followed. Results. Seven recommendations and six general principles were developed for GC-induced osteoporosis in the pediatric population. Conclusion. These recommendations provide guidance for clinicians who must make decisions concerning pediatric patients undergoing treatment with GC.

Childhood lichenoid granulomatous stomatitis: a case report and literature review / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To investigate the classification, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment of oral lichenoid lesions and provide a reference for clinical practice.@*Methods@#Hospital ethical approval and patient informed consent were obtained. We report a case of oral lichenoid lesion in children and review the diagnosis and treatment of oral lichenoid damage in the literature.@*Results@#The patient experienced repeated rupture of the dorsal surface of the tongue with pain for more than 3 years. There was a large area of tongue back surface erosion with an irregular shape, surrounded by pearly-white lines. The left erosive area was accompanied by tissue hyperplasia, which was approximately 1.5 cm × 2.0 cm, with tough texture and broad masses. The pathological diagnosis of the patient was oral lichenoid lesion. After biopsy of the dorsal surface of the tongue, the pathological diagnosis of the patient was granulomatous inflammation. The final diagnosis of lichenoid granulomatous stomatitis was made on the basis of the patient's intraoral damage features, systemic history, medication history and histopathological findings. A review of the literature suggests that oral lichenoid lesions have an unknown etiology and need to be clinically differentiated from oral lichen planus, oral lichenoid drug reactions, oral lichenoid contact damage and chronic ulcerative stomatitis. The clinical treatment of oral lichen planus is based on the topical and/or systemic use of glucocorticoids.@*Conclusion@#There are still no uniform criteria for the classification and diagnosis of oral lichenoid lesions. They rely mainly on history taking, clinical manifestations and histopathological findings, and the treatment is mainly based on the topical and/or systemic use of glucocorticoids.

Side effects of chronic systemic glucocorticoid therapy: what dermatologists should know

Abstract In dermatologists' clinical practice, the use of systemic glucocorticoids is recurrent for the management of different comorbidities that require chronic immunosuppression. The prescription of this medication requires caution and basic clinical knowledge due to the several adverse effects inherent to the treatment. However, different doubts may arise or inappropriate conduct may be adopted due to the lack of objective and specific guidelines for the screening, prophylaxis and management of complications from chronic corticosteroid therapy. Considering this problem, the authors carried out a narrative review of the literature to gather up-to-date data on adverse effects secondary to the chronic use of systemic glucocorticoids. The broad approach to this topic made it possible to review the pathophysiology and risk factors for these complications, as well as to develop updated orientation that can be used as a learning tool and quick reference for dermatologists during their clinical practice with glucocorticoids.

Características clínico-oftalmológicas y evolución de los pacientes con oftalmopatía tiroidea activa moderada severa tratados con bolos de metilprednisolona que acuden al Hospital Central del Instituto de Previsión Social, Paraguay / Clinical-ophthalmological characteristics and evolution of patients with moderately severe active thyroid ophthalmopathy treated with methylprednisolone boluses who attended the Central Hospital of the Instituto de Previsión Social, Paraguay

Introducción: La oftalmopatía tiroidea (OT) es un trastorno debilitante en pacientes con enfermedad tiroidea autoinmune, principalmente enfermedad de Graves, que se desarrolla entre el 30 a 50% de los casos. Objetivos: Describir las características clínico-oftalmológicas y la evolución de los pacientes con oftalmopatía tiroidea activa moderada severa tratados con bolos de metilprednisolona que acuden al Hospital Central del Instituto de Previsión Social en el tiempo comprendido entre enero de 2018 y setiembre de 2021. Materiales y métodos: Investigación de diseño observacional, con estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo. Resultados: Se revisaron fichas de 34 pacientes con OT activa moderada severa que recibieron bolos de metilprednisolona basado en las guías EUGOGO 2016, de los cuáles se excluyeron 3 pacientes por tener fichas incompletas y otros 3 pacientes ya que requirieron tratamiento de segunda línea previo al término del esquema de 12 sesiones. De los 28 pacientes estudiados, la edad promedio fue de 43,6 ±13,1 años, el 89% de sexo femenino y el 28,5%, fumadores. En cuanto a la función tiroidea de la población previo al tratamiento, se constató hipertiroidismo en el 82%, hipotiroidismo en el 11% y eutiroidismo en el 7%; y posterior al tratamiento, se constató hipertiroidismo en el 78,6% (subclínico), eutiroidismo en el 17,9% e hipotiroidismo en el 3,5%. La mayoría (92.6%) contaba con anticuerpos contra el receptor de TSH positivo, con un promedio de 18 ± 9,9 mIU/Ml. Respecto a la actividad de la oftalmopatía según la escala CAS, se constató un promedio de 4,1 ±1,0 previo al tratamiento y posterior 1,2 ±1,4; de ellos el 46,4% presentó un estado leve según escala de gravedad, 39% sin criterios de gravedad y 14 % persistió en moderada -severa. Se constató mejoría de la agudeza visual tras el tratamiento (57,1%), el promedio de exoftalmía previo al tratamiento fue 22,2 mm y posterior 21,1 mm; se presentó diplopía en el 7,1% previo al tratamiento y en el 3,6% posterior al tratamiento. Conclusión: El tratamiento con glucocorticoides endovenosos en la oftalmopatía de Graves moderada-severa (esquema EUGOGO 2016) fue muy efectivo, revirtiendo la actividad y consecuentemente ayudando a disminuir la gravedad, en la gran mayoría de nuestros pacientes. Esto podría explicarse porque la oftalmopatía era incipiente y por el alto grado de adherencia de los pacientes en el contexto de un manejo multidisciplinar bien protocolizado.

Introduction: Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is a debilitating disorder in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease, mainly Graves' disease, which develops in 30 to 50% of cases. Objectives: To describe the clinical-ophthalmological characteristics and evolution of patients with moderate-to- severe active GO treated with methylprednisolone boluses who attended the Central Hospital of the Institute of Social Security between January 2018 and September 2021. Materials and methods: Observational design research, descriptive, retrospective study. Results: Records of 34 patients with active moderate-to-severe GO who received boluses of methylprednisolone based on the EUGOGO 2016 guidelines, were reviewed, of which 3 patients were excluded due to having incomplete records and another 3 patients since they required second-line treatment prior to end the 12-session scheme. Of the 28 patients studied, the average age was 43.6 ±13.1 years, 89% were female and 28.5% were smokers. Regarding the thyroid function of the population prior to treatment, hyperthyroidism was found in 82%, hypothyroidism in 11% and euthyroidism in 7%; and after treatment, hyperthyroidism was found in 78.6% (subclinical), euthyroidism in 17.9% and hypothyroidism in 3.5%. The majority (92.6%) had positive thyrotropin receptor antibodies, with an average of 18 ± 9.9 mIU/Ml. Regarding the activity of orbitopathy according to the CAS scale, an average of 4.1 ±1.0 was found before treatment and 1.2 ±1.4 after; Of them, 46.4% presented a mild condition according to the severity scale, 39% without severity criteria and 14% persisted in moderate-severe. Improvement in visual acuity was noted after treatment (57.1%), the average exophthalmia before treatment was 22.2 mm and after 21.1 mm; Diplopia occurred in 7.1% before treatment and in 3.6% after treatment. Conclusion: Treatment with intravenous glucocorticoids in moderate-severe Graves' orbitopathy (EUGOGO 2016 scheme) was very effective, reversing the activity and consequently helping to reduce the severity, in the vast majority of our patients. This could be explained because the orbitopathy was incipient and by the high degree of patient adherence in the context of well-protocolized multidisciplinary management.

Comparación clínica en el manejo remoto del asma bronquial durante la pandemia COVID-19 entre dos terapias controladoras: fluticasona y beclometasona / Clinical comparison in the remote management of bronchial asthma during the COVID-19 pandemic between two controller therapies: Fluticasone and beclomethasone

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comparar el nivel de control del asma mediante el uso del Asthma Control Test (ACT) y manifestaciones clínicas en dos grupos de pacientes tratados con diferentes corticosteroides inhalados (GCI): fluticasona y beclometasona. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional, comparativo y prospectivo en 521 niños del programa de asma del Hospital III Yanahuara. Durante el periodo de junio de 2020 a diciembre de 2021, se evaluó el nivel de control del asma mediante consultas remotas utilizando el ACT y la recopilación de hallazgos clínicos. Los pacientes se agruparon según el tipo de GCI que se encontraban utilizando. Se registraron los datos en dos momentos diferentes para cada paciente, con un intervalo de 4 meses entre cada control, durante la pandemia de COVID-19 y se comparó el nivel de control mediante la puntuación obtenida en el ACT y las manifestaciones clínicas entre ambos grupos de pacientes en ambos momentos del estudio. Resultados . Ambos grupos tuvieron un control óptimo al inicio como al final del estudio. En las manifestaciones clínicas no hubo diferencia estadística (P > 0.05) a favor de ningún medicamento en ninguno de los dos controles. Sin embargo, en el segundo control (egreso) se encontró una diferencia significativa de la fluticasona frente a la beclometasona (p = 0.030). Conclusiones . Se encontró que la Fluticasona tuvo una superioridad en el nivel de control del asma frente a la beclometasona. Sin embargo, el factor determinante para lograr un buen control es el uso continuo de cualquier GCI.

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the level of asthma control using the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and clinical manifestations in two groups of patients treated with different inhaled corticosteroids (ICG): fluticasone and beclometasone. Materials and methods: An observational, comparative and prospective study was conducted in 521 children in the asthma program of Hospital III Yanahuara. During the period from June 2020 to December 2021, the level of asthma control was assessed by remote consultations using ACT and collection of clinical findings. Patients were grouped according to the type of ICG they were using. Data were recorded at two different time points for each patient, with a 4-month interval between each control, during the COVID-19 pandemic and the level of control was compared by ACT score and clinical manifestations between the two groups of patients at both time points of the study. Results: Both groups had optimal control at baseline and at the end of the study. In clinical manifestations there was no statistical difference (P > 0.05) in favor of either drug in either control. However, in the second control (discharge) a significant difference was found for fluticasone versus beclometasone (P = 0.030). Conclusions: Fluticasone was found to have superiority in the level of asthma control over beclomethasone. However, the determining factor in achieving good control is the continuous use of any IGC.

Bone effects of epidural and intra-articular glucocorticoids: a systematic literature review / Efectos óseos de los glucocorticoides epidurales e intraarticulares: revisión sistemática de la literatura

Osteoporosis and vertebral and non-vertebral fractures are common in glucocorticoids (GC) treated patients. Oral GC treatment leads to bone loss, particularly of trabecular bone. The benefits of GC used in rheumatological and traumatological disorders are known but they would have possible negative effects on bone. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of epidural steroid injections (ESI), and intra-articular and intramuscular GC administration on bone mineral density (BMD) and fragility fractures. A systematic review of Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, and LILACS up to November 2020 was conducted. Meta-analyses, systematic reviews, randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, and prospective and retrospective studies comparing the effect of ESI, intra-articular or intramuscular GC used compared to a control group or baseline measurements were included. Results: A total of 8272 individuals were included among the 13 selected articles (10 about ESI and 3 about intra-articular GC; no article was found evaluating intramuscular GC). Only a few studies showed a negative effect of ESI on bone in the qualitative analysis considering osteopenia and osteoporosis in lumbar spine, femoral neck and total hip and BMD as surrogate outcomes. On the other hand, the qualitative analysis showed that most studies found an increased risk of fragility fracture. However, only two studies could be included in the quantitative analysis, in which there were no differences between patients exposed to ESI versus controls in all evaluated regions. In conclusion, there was insufficient evidence to suggest that ESI and intra-articular GC, unlike oral GC, negatively affect bone mass. Longitudinal studies are needed to obtain more knowledge regarding the effect of ESI or intra-articular GC on BMD and fragility fractures. (AU)

La osteoporosis y las fracturas vertebrales y no vertebrales son comunes en pacientes tratados con glucocorticoides (GC). El tratamiento oral con GC conduce a la pérdida ósea, particularmente del hueso trabecular. Los beneficios de los GC utilizados en patologías reumatológicas y traumatológicas son conocidos, pero tendrían posibles efectos negativos sobre el hueso. Esta revisión sistemática tuvo como objetivo evaluar los efectos de las inyecciones epidurales de esteroides (ESI), GC intraarticulares e intramusculares sobre la densidad mineral ósea (DMO) y las fracturas por fragilidad. Se realizó una revisión sistemática de Medline/PubMed, Cochrane y LILACS hasta noviembre de 2020. Se incluyeron metanálisis, revisiones sistemáticas, ensayos controlados aleatorizados y no aleatorizados, estudios prospectivos y retrospectivos que compararon el efecto de ESI, GC intraarticular o intramuscular utilizado en comparación con un grupo de control o mediciones iniciales. Resultados: Se incluyeron un total de 8272 individuos entre los 13 artículos seleccionados (10 sobre ESI y 3 sobre GC intraarticular; no se encontró ningún artículo que evaluara GC intramuscular). Solo unos pocos estudios mostraron un efecto negativo del ESI sobre el hueso en el análisis cualitativo considerando la osteopenia y la osteoporosis en la columna lumbar, el cuello femoral y la cadera total y la DMO como un resultado indirecto. Por otro lado, el análisis cualitativo mostró que la mayoría de los estudios encontraron un mayor riesgo de fractura por fragilidad. Sin embargo, solo dos estudios pudieron incluirse en el análisis cuantitativo, en los que no hubo diferencias entre los pacientes expuestos a ESI versus los controles en todas las regiones evaluadas. En conclusión, no hallamos datos suficientes para sugerir que la ESI y los GC intraarticulares, a diferencia de los GC orales, afectan negativamente a la pérdida ósea. Se necesitan estudios longitudinales para obtener más conocimiento sobre el efecto de ESI o GC intraarticular en la DMO y las fracturas por fragilidad. (AU)

Low dose oral glucocorticoid therapy in lichen planus: A retrospective cohort study

Background: There are various topical and systemic treatment options for the management of lichen planus. However, it is often difficult to achieve long-term disease control and many of the common therapies may be associated with unwanted side effects. Aims: To evaluate the effectiveness of 8 mg oral methylprednisolone administered daily in lichen planus by the analysis of medical records. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we compared the rates of improvement between two groups of patients. The first group received 8 mg oral methylprednisolone daily for at least one month. In the second group, patients with similar parameters to the first group (age, sex, disease manifestation) but without systemic glucocorticoid therapy were included. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare the rates of remission in the two groups. Results: In the daily oral methylprednisolone (n = 24) and no systemic corticosteroids (n = 16) groups, 23 (95.8%) and 6 (37.5%) patients achieved partial or complete remission, respectively. The frequency of improvement was significantly higher in patients who received oral methylprednisolone (P < 0.0001). Limitations: Limitations of this study include its retrospective design and the relatively small sample size. Conclusion: Low dose oral glucocorticoid therapy may be an effective option for the systemic treatment of lichen planus. Based on our results and previous studies, instead of higher doses, longer therapy duration with low doses should be considered.

Paraccocidiomicosis sistémica en consumidor crónico de corticoides

La Paracoccidiomicosis es una infección endémica. Junto con la histoplasmosis, son las infecciones micóticas más frecuentes en Latinoamérica. Esta micosis puede ser de afección local o sistémica, con un marcado trofismo por los pulmones, órganos linfoides, hígado, glándulas suprarrenales, piel y mucosa. Presentamos el caso de un varón adulto, consumidor crónico de corticoides, que desarrolla una paracoccidiomicosis sistémica con afección pulmonar y de glándulas suprarrenales con buena repuesta a la terapéutica antifúngica.

Paracoccidiomycosis is an endemic infection, together with histoplasmosis, they are the most frequent fungal infections in Latin America. This mycosis can be of local or systemic affection, with a marked trophism by the lungs, lymphoid organs, liver, adrenal glands, skin and mucosa. We present the case of an adult male, chronic steroid user, who develops systemic paracoccidiomycosis with pulmonary and adrenal gland involvement with good response to antifungal therapy.

Vasculitis del sistema nervioso central

La vasculitis primaria del Sistema Nervioso Central (VPSNC) se refiere a un grupo de enfermedades que resultan de la inflamación y destrucción de los vasos sanguíneos de la médula espinal, encéfalo y meninges, tanto en el sector venoso como arterial, esto puede conducir a la oclusión o formación de aneurismas, con las consiguientes alteraciones isquémico-hemorrágicas.1 La presentación es heterogénea y poco sistematizable. El diagnóstico se establece con un cuadro clínico compatible, una angiografía o biopsia del parénquima encefálico y/o meninges que evidencien vasculitis. Presentamos el caso de un paciente portador de retrovirus con probable VPSNC con clínica compatible, hallazgos imagenológicos sugestivos, con escasa alteración de LCR y EEG.2

Primary vasculitis of the Central Nervous System (VPSNC) refers to a group of diseases that result from inflammation and destruction of the blood vessels of the spinal cord, brain and meninges, both in the venous and arterial sector, this can lead to the occlusion or formation of aneurysms, with the consequent ischemic-hemorrhagic alterations.1 The presentation is heterogeneous and little systematizable. The diagnosis is established with a compatible clinical picture, an angiography or biopsy of the brain parenchyma and/or meninges that show vasculitis. We present the case of a patient with a retrovirus with probable NCPSV with compatible symptoms, suggestive imaging findings, with little CSF and EEG alteration.2

Brief review of pathophysiological disorders as consequence of psychological stress / Breve revisión de los trastornos fisiopatológicos como consecuencia del estrés psicológico

Background: Psychological stress is a reaction to an unexpected situation that favours adaptation and response to the event. However, when psychological stress is chronic or very intense, it can induce changes in various systems and tissues, causing diseases or aggravating existing ones. Objective: To briefly analyse the pathophysiological conditions caused by psychological stress. Method: A narrative review of the scientific literature on pathophysiological conditions as a consequence of psychological stress was performed. Results: Psychological stress can induce various conditions at the gastrointestinal, immune and cardiovascular levels. This is mainly due to the neurobiological and endocrine response because when faced with a stressful stimulus, a deregulated release of glucocorticoids and catecholamines is generated, altering the normal physiology of the organism. Gastrointestinal disorders are mainly due to goblet cell dysfunction, resulting in intestinal hyperpermeability, inflammation and infection. Changes at the immune level lead to an increase in inflammatory responses but a decrease in the protective activities of the immune system. Finally, cardiovascular conditions include atherosclerosis, increased blood pressure and stroke. Conclusion: Psychological stress can induce real physiological pathologies and, in some cases, fatal ones. Some of the molecular mechanisms involved in these pathologies have already been studied and identified. Knowledge of these molecular mechanisms can help clinicians and therapists to improve the treatment and therapy of patients.

Introducción: El estrés psicológico es una respuesta a una situación inesperada que favorece la adaptación y la respuesta ante dicho evento. Sin embargo, cuando el estrés psicológico es crónico o muy intenso, se pueden desencadenar afecciones en diversos sistemas y tejidos, generando enfermedades o empeorando las ya existentes. Objetivo: Analizar brevemente las afecciones fisiopatológicas causadas por el estrés psicológico. Método: Se realizó una revisión narrativa con la literatura científica sobre las afecciones fisiopatológicas debidas al estrés psicológico. Resultados: El estrés psicológico puede desencadenar diversas afecciones a nivel gastrointestinal, inmunitario y cardiovascular. Esto se debe principalmente a la respuesta neurobiológica y endócrina, ya que ante estímulos estresores, se genera una liberación desregulada de glucocorticoides y catecolaminas que alteran la fisiología normal del organismo. Las afecciones a nivel gastrointestinal se deben principalmente a la disfunción de las células caliciformes, dando como consecuencia hiperpermeabilidad intestinal, inflamación e infecciones. Las alteraciones a nivel inmunitario generan un aumento en las respuestas inflamatorias pero una reducción en las actividades protectoras del sistema inmune. Por último, las afecciones cardiovasculares incluyen ateroesclerosis, aumento de la presión arterial y derrames cerebrales, entre otros. Conclusión: El estrés psicológico puede causar patologías fisiológicas reales y, en algunos casos, mortales. Algunos de los mecanismos moleculares implicados en estas patologías ya han sido estudiados y establecidos. Conocer estos mecanismos moleculares puede ayudar a los médicos y terapeutas a mejorar el tratamiento y la terapia del paciente.

The value of exhaled nitric oxide in assessing the risk of acute exacerbation and guiding the use of ICS in patients with COPD / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To explore the predictive value of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) for the risk of acute exacerbation in stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients over the next year and evaluate whether it can guide the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).Methods:This study was a multicenter, retrospective and observational cohort study. The subjects of this study were stable COPD patients who were hospitalized in 12 hospitals in Hunan Province and Guangxi from January 2017 to December 2021. The patient′s basic Demography information, previous acute exacerbation history, pulmonary function, FeNO, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test questionnaire (CAT) score, modified British Medical Research Council dyspnea questionnaire (mMRC) score, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease control questionnaire (CCQ) score, and detailed treatment plan were collected. Based on FeNO 25 ppb, patients were divided into a high FeNO group and a normal FeNO group. All patients were followed up for 1 year and information on acute exacerbation was recorded.Results:A total of 825 patients were included, aged (63.5±9.1)years, with a median of 25 ppb of FeNO. A number of 825 patients were followed up for 1 year, of which 262(31.8%) experienced acute exacerbation. Multivariate logistic regression found that FeNO, CAT score, smoking cessation, and past history of acute exacerbation were independent factors predicting acute exacerbation in COPD patients in the next year (all P<0.05). High FeNO was a protective factor for acute exacerbation in COPD patients in the next year, with an OR value of 0.10 ( P<0.001). Further analysis found that the proportion of patients in the high FeNO group using ICS was significantly higher than that in the normal FeNO group [58.8%(247/420) vs 48.6%(197/405), P=0.003]. In the high FeNO group, using ICS can reduce the incidence of acute exacerbation of COPD in the next year [8.9%(22/247) vs 15.6%(27/173), P<0.05], while in the normal FeNO group, there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of acute exacerbation between patients using ICS and those not using ICS ( P>0.05). Conclusions:FeNO is an independent factor predicting the acute exacerbation of COPD in the next year, and patients with high FeNO levels may consider using ICS in combination.

Related factors of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the value of inhaled glucocorticoid guided by eosinophil in peripheral blood / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To explore the risk factors of acute exacerbation (AE) of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and whether Eosinophil (EOS) in peripheral blood can guide the treatment of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).Methods:This study was a single center, Prospective cohort study. The subjects of this study were from stable COPD patients who were treated in the Department of Respiratory Medicine of the Xiangya Second Hospital of Central South University from January 2020 to December 2021. Patient general information, past year AE status, exposure risk factors, modified version of the British Medical Research Council Respiratory Difficulty Questionnaire (mMRC) score, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Questionnaire (CAT) score, ICS usage, lung function, blood routine, etc. were collected. We followed up the patient for one year. During the follow-up period, the clinical characteristics of patients with and without AE were compared to analyze the correlation between blood EOS and ICS use.Results:The median blood EOS of 617 stable COPD patients was 0.13×10 9/L, 289 patients (46.8%) with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had a history of AE, and 207 patients (33.5%) experienced AE during 1-year follow-up. The results of univariate analysis showed that the future occurrence of AE in COPD was correlated with body mass index (BMI), AE history, Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) grading, GOLD grouping, mMRC score, and CAT score (all P<0.05). The results of logistic multiple factor regression analysis showed that patients with BMI<24 kg/m 2, AE in the past year, severe AE in the past year, smoking history and other exposure factors, GOLD level 2 or above, GOLD C and D groups, and mMRC score≥ 2 had a higher risk of future AE (all P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of AE between patients with COPD with different levels of EOS and those without ICS during a 1-year follow-up period (all P>0.05). Conclusions:The past 1-year AE history, BMI, exposure risk factors, degree of airflow restriction, and respiratory symptoms of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can predict future AE risk. There is no significant difference in future AE risk among patients with different levels of EOS, and EOS cannot guide ICS treatment to reduce AE risk.

Efficacy of montelukast sodium combined with methylprednisolone in the treatment of allergic purpura in children and its effects on inflammatory factors and immune function / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of montelukast sodium combined with methylprednisolone in the treatment of pediatric allergic purpura and its effects on inflammatory factors and immune function.Methods:A total of 94 children with allergic purpura who received treatment in Taizhou Women and Children's Hospital and Taizhou Hospital Medical Center (Group) Enze Hospital from March 2019 to March 2021 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into observation and control groups ( n = 47/group). The control group was treated with methylprednisolone. The observation group was treated with montelukast sodium combined with methylprednisolone. The course of treatment was 2 weeks in both groups. Efficacy and changes in inflammatory factors and immune function post-treatment relative to those pre-treatment were compared between the two groups. Results:Total response rate in the observation group [93.62% (44/47)] was significantly higher than that in the control group [74.47% (35/47), Z = 2.15, P < 0.05)]. After treatment, interleukin (IL-4), IL-6, and IL-18 levels in each group were significantly decreased compared with those before treatment ( tobservation group = 21.19, 22.26, 27.20, tcontrol group = 11.10, 13.21, 14.86, all P < 0.05). After treatment, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 levels in the observation group were (48.98 ± 5.21) ng/L, (34.10 ± 6.42) ng/L, and (53.29 ± 5.67) ng/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (65.38 ± 7.08) ng/L, (47.83 ± 4.71) ng/L, (67.83 ± 7.10) ng/L in the control group ( t = 12.79, 11.82, 10.97, all P < 0.05). After treatment, CD3 +, CD4 +, and CD4 +/CD8 + in each group were significantly increased compared with those before treatment ( tobservation group = 14.27, 14.41, 17.61, tcontrol group = 6.90, 5.12, 7.40, all P < 0.05). After treatment, CD3 +, CD4 +, and CD4 +/CD8 + in the observation group were (68.94 ± 2.89)%, (39.94 ± 2.15)%, and (1.79 ± 0.13), respectively, which were significantly higher than (63.86 ± 3.28)%, (35.65 ± 2.31)%, and (1.53 ± 0.16) in the control group ( t = 7.96, 9.32, 8.64, all P < 0.05). After treatment, serum IgG and IgM levels in each group were significantly decreased compared with those before treatment ( tobservation group = 21.00, 7.99, tcontrol group = 8.38, 5.76, both P < 0.05). After treatment, serum IgG and IgM levels in the observation group were (1.43 ± 0.19) g/L and (9.74 ± 0.78) g/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (1.95 ± 0.37) g/L and (10.89 ± 0.85) g/L in the control group ( t = 8.57, 6.83, both P < 0.05). Conclusion:Montelukast sodium combined with methylprednisolone is highly effective on allergic purpura in children. The combined therapy can reduce inflammatory responses and improve immune function in children.

Effects of extrafine-particle versus fine-particle inhaled corticosteroids combined with formoterol on large and small airway function in patients with bronchial asthma / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To compare the effects of extrafine-particle versus fine-particle inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) combined with formoterol on clinical symptoms, airway inflammation and airway function in patients with bronchial asthma (referred to as asthma).Methods:This prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial enrolled a total of 111 patients diagnose of asthma and cough variant asthma with forced expired volume in one second (FEV 1) percentage of predicted (FEV 1%pred) >70% in Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from November 2020 to October 2022. The patients were divided into observation group (57 cases) and control group (54 cases) by random digits table method. The patients in observation group were treated with extrafine-particle ICS combined with formoterol, while the patients in control group were treated with fine-particle ICS combined with formoterol. Both groups were treated for 4 weeks. During treatment 10 patients lost follow up and a total of 101 patients complete the final study: 52 cases in observation group and 49 cases in control group. At baseline, the asthma control test (ACT) score was calculated to evaluate the clinical symptoms, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was applied to evaluate the airway inflammatory level, and the pulmonary function test and bronchodilation test were perfromed. The symptom relief time was record. After treatment, all of the parameters were reevaluated. Results:The FEV 1, peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expired flow at 50% of forced vital capacity (MEF 50), forced expired flow at 25% of forced vital capacity (MEF 25), maximal expiratory flow-volume curve (MMEF) and ACT score after treatment in both groups were significantly improved compared to baseline, and there were statistical differences ( P<0.01). The improvement of ACT score in observation group was significantly higher than that in control group: (5.90 ± 2.25) scores vs. (4.10 ± 2.18) scores, and there was statistical difference ( P<0.01); there were no statistical differences in the symptom relief time and the improvement rates of FEV 1, PEF, MEF 50, MEF 25, MMEF between the two groups ( P>0.05). Further subgroup analysis was performed on 78 patients with small airway dysfunction, 39 patients were treated with extrafine-particle ICS combined with formoterol (observation subgroup), and 39 patients were treated with fine-particle ICS combined with formoterol (control subgroup). The improvement of ACT score in observation subgroup was significantly higher than that in control subgroup: (6.05 ± 2.22) scores vs. (3.95 ± 2.19) scores, and there was statistical difference ( P<0.01); there were no statistical differences in the symptom relief time and the improvement rates of FEV 1, PEF, MEF 50, MEF 25, MMEF between the two subgroups ( P>0.05). Spearman correlation analysis result showed that the improvement rates of MEF 50, MEF 25 and MMEF after treatment were positive correlated with baseline bronchodilator responses of FEV 1, FEV 1/FVC, MEF 50, MEF 25, MMEF ( r = 0.22 to 0.58, P<0.05), but not with baseline bronchodilator responses of PEF ( P>0.05). In terms of safety, neither of the two treatments had major adverse reactions that affect treatment. Conclusions:For asthma patients with baseline FEV 1%pred>70%, the extrafine-particle ICS combined with formoterol has more significantly improved of clinical symptoms compared to fine-particle ICS combined with formoterol, and potentially with better safety profile. The improvement ratio of small airway function parameters in baseline bronchodilation test could potentially predict treatment response.

Correlation analysis between renin-angiotensin system and bone mineral density in children with glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis / 中华内分泌外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the relationship between renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and bone mineral density in children with glucocorticoids-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) .Methods:From Apr. 2020 to May. 2021, 53 children with GIOP were recruited in the Children’s Hospital of Taiyuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital and included in the observation group, and 47 children who received glucocorticoid therapy but did not suffer from GIOP were included in the control group. The levels of serum RAS components and bone mineral density of the two groups of pediatric patients were detected and compared, and the risk clinical indicators affecting bone mineral density and GIOP were analyzed.Results:There were no significant differences between the observation group and the control group in terms of gender, age, BMI, disease type, type of glucocorticoid use, use of anti-osteoporosis (OP) drugs, expression levels of Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) or angiotensin II (Ang Ⅱ) (all P>0.05) . The bone density value of the observation group was lower than those of the control group, and the levels of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) (1.19±0.23) , angiotensin receptor 1 (AT1R) (1.24±0.24) , angiotensin receptor 2 (AT2R) (1.14±0.17) , and Mas receptor (MasR) (1.11±0.28) were significantly higher than those of the control group (1.00±0.23, 1.00±0.25, 1.00±0.21, 1.00±0.20) , and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05) . Pearson analysis showed that bone mineral density was negatively correlated with the levels of ACE ( r=-0.34, P=0.013) , AT1R ( r=-0.41, P=0.002) and AT2R ( r=-0.34, P=0.014) , and stepwise regression model showed that ACE ( t=-2.21, P=0.032) and AT1R ( t=-2.92, P=0.005) were the main factors affecting bone mineral density. Logistic regression model analysis showed that bone mineral density ( OR=0.85, P<0.001) , Ang Ⅱ ( OR=0.53, P=0.041) and AT2R ( OR=2.00, P=0.024) were independent clinical risk factors affecting GIOP (all P<0.05) . Conclusion:RAS components ACE and AT1R are independent risk factors affecting bone mineral density in children with GIOP, and are significantly correlated with bone mineral density in children.

Mechanism of action of glucocorticoid receptors in the growth of hepatoma cells / 国际肿瘤学杂志

The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) plays a critical role in signal transduction, expression of related genes and apoptosis of cancer cells. Hepatocellular carcinoma is characterized by high aggressiveness and mortality. In the exploration of the relationship between GR and hepatocellular carcinoma, numerous studies have shown that GR has an inhibitory effect on the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells, which provides new ideas and methods for the clinical application of GR in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Developmental toxicity and programming alterations of multiple organs in offspring induced by medication during pregnancy

Medication during pregnancy is widespread, but there are few reports on its fetal safety. Recent studies suggest that medication during pregnancy can affect fetal morphological and functional development through multiple pathways, multiple organs, and multiple targets. Its mechanisms involve direct ways such as oxidative stress, epigenetic modification, and metabolic activation, and it may also be indirectly caused by placental dysfunction. Further studies have found that medication during pregnancy may also indirectly lead to multi-organ developmental programming, functional homeostasis changes, and susceptibility to related diseases in offspring by inducing fetal intrauterine exposure to too high or too low levels of maternal-derived glucocorticoids. The organ developmental toxicity and programming alterations caused by medication during pregnancy may also have gender differences and multi-generational genetic effects mediated by abnormal epigenetic modification. Combined with the latest research results of our laboratory, this paper reviews the latest research progress on the developmental toxicity and functional programming alterations of multiple organs in offspring induced by medication during pregnancy, which can provide a theoretical and experimental basis for rational medication during pregnancy and effective prevention and treatment of drug-related multiple fetal-originated diseases.

Clinical characteristics, ultrasonic diagnosis, treatment and outcomes of eosinophilic fasciitis: a retrospective single-center analysis of 45 cases / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the clinical features, laboratory and imaging results, treatment and outcomes of eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) and assess the value of ultrasound in the diagnosis of EF.@*METHODS@#We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 45 patients with EF treated in our center from January 1, 2006 to February 28, 2022. The consistency between the diagnoses of EF based on ultrasound and MRI findings was assessed.@*RESULTS@#In the 45 EF patients (male/female ratio 3.5:1), the age of onset ranged from 16 to 64 years with a mean disease course of 22.6 months. The average time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 16 months. The most common possible trigger of the disease was vigorous exercise (10/45), causing symmetrical lesions in the limbs, most commonly in the forearms (86.7%) and lower legs (80%). Clinical features of EF included subcutaneous swelling and induration (95.6%), arthralgia and arthritis (55.6%), groove sign (42.2%), hand joint contractures (42.2%), skin pigmentation (37.8%), and peau d'orange appearance (13.3%). Eosinophilia was found in 31 patients (68.9%). Hypergammaglobulinemia was seen in 23/44 (52.3%) and positive antinuclear antibodies in 9 (20%) of the patients. Twentyone of the patients were treated with high-dose methylprednisolone (≥200 mg daily for 3 to 5 consecutive days), and compared with the patients who did not receive this treatment, these patients more frequently experienced relapse before admission, had more extensive involvement, and had a higher rate of hypergammaglobulinemia without fever, but these differences were not statistically significant. Of the 31 patients (68.9%) with follow-up data (for a median of 3.2 years [range 0.2-15.9]), complete remission was achieved in 12 (38.7%) patients, and the accumulative complete remission rate was 44.1% at 5.5 years. No specific baseline characteristics or immunosuppressants were found to correlate with the treatment response. A total of 26 patients underwent both ultrasound and MRI examination, and the Kappa value of the diagnostic results between ultrasound and MRI was 0.91.@*CONCLUSION@#EF is characterized by symmetrical subcutaneous swelling and induration in the limbs, accompanied by eosinophilia and hypergammaglobulinemia. Glucocorticoid is effective for treating EF. Ultrasound examination can identify thickening of subcutaneous fascia for an early diagnosis of EF.

Efficacy of glucocorticoid stent implantation in ethmoid sinus after endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy of glucocorticoid sinus stents implanted 2 weeks after functional endoscopic sinus surgery（FESS） for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps（CRSwNP）. Methods:CRSwNP patients with similar bilateral lesions were randomly divided into two groups, with a stent group of 25 patients and a control group of 24 patients. Patients in the stent group had glucocorticoid sinus stents implanted into the bilateral ethmoid sinuses 2 weeks after FESS, while the control group underwent postoperative debridement only. Follow-up assessments occurred at postoperative weeks 2, 4, 8, and 12. Patients were asked to assess their sensation of nasal symptoms using a 10-point visual analog scale. Efficacy was assessed by endoscopic evaluations. Sinus obstruction, crusting/coagulation, polyp formation, middle turbinate position, adhesions, mucosa epithelialization, and postoperative intervention were assessed as efficacy outcomes. GraphPad Prism 9 was applied for statistical analysis. Results:At 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively, the stent group showed significant improvement in VAS scores of nasal congestion and runny nose compared with the control group（P<0.05）. No significant difference was observed in the VAS scores of head and facial stuffiness, loss of smell, or nasal dryness/crusting between the two groups（P>0.05）. Compared with the control group, the stent group had a lower rate of polypoid formation at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively. At postoperative week 12, the rate of mucosal epithelialization in the ethmoid cavity was significantly higher in the stent group. During the follow-up, the frequency of postoperative intervention was significantly lower in the stent group than in the control group（P<0.05）. Besides, a lower incidence of middle turbinate lateralization was found in the stent group at 8 and 12 weeks postoperatively. At 8 weeks postoperatively, the stent group had a percentage of adhesion lower than that of the control group（all P<0.05）. Conclusion:Implantation of glucocorticoid sinus stents after FESS can maintain sinus cavity patency, improve the inflammatory status of the operative cavity, reduce postoperative interventions, and promote benign regression of the operative cavity.