Evolución clínica en pacientes con síndrome del túnel carpiano tratados con ultrasonido o infiltración con corticoesteroides / Clinical Evolution in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated with Ultrasound or Corticosteroid Infiltration

Introducción. El Síndrome del túnel carpiano es la neuropatía periférica compresiva más común de la extremidad superior, que se produce por la compresión del nervio mediano. Los casos leves y moderados pueden tratarse con métodos conservadores como ultrasonido terapéutico o infiltración con corticoesteroides. Objetivo. Describir la evolución clínica de pacientes con síndrome de túnel carpiano tratados con terapia por ultrasonido e infiltración de corticoesteroides. Metodología. Ensayo clínico abierto, en pacientes con síndrome del túnel carpiano leve y moderado, que consultaron del 1 de octubre 2021 al 30 de mayo 2022. Se formaron dos grupos; el que recibió tratamiento con ultrasonido con 12 casos y el grupo tratado con infiltración con corticoesteroides con seis casos. Ambos grupos fueron intervenidos en la consulta inicial, y luego, en las cuatro y ocho semanas posteriores al inicio del tratamiento. Resultados. Se muestran los resultados descriptivos relacionados con la intensidad de dolor, valorada con la Escala Visual Numérica, la infiltración obtuvo dos casos sin dolor y cuatro con dolor moderado, contrario a ultrasonido que se mantuvo con cuatro casos leves, tres moderados y cinco intensos. En los síntomas, la infiltración redujo el número de casos en cuatro de los síntomas estudiados, en cambio el ultrasonido únicamente en dos. En severidad, valorada con el cuestionario de Boston para túnel carpal, con infiltración se obtuvieron dos casos asintomáticos y ninguno con ultrasonido. Respecto a los signos clínicos, el signo de Tinel desapareció en cuatro casos en ambos grupos, mientras que signo de Phalen desapareció en cuatro casos en ultrasonido y dos en infiltración. Conclusión. En intensidad de dolor y grado de severidad, la infiltración generó casos asintomáticos y redujo mayor cantidad de síntomas que el ultrasonido. Ambos tratamientos disminuyeron la presencia de signos clínicos

Introduction. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common compressive peripheral neuropathy of the upper extremity, which is caused by compression of the median nerve. Mild and moderate cases can be treated with conservative methods such as therapeutic ultrasound or corticosteroid infiltration. Objective. To describe the clinical evolution of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome treated with ultrasound therapy and corticosteroid infiltration. Methodology. A prospective open clinical trial was conducted in patients with mild and moderate carpal tunnel syndrome who consulted from October 1, 2021 to May 30, 2022. Two groups were formed: the group that received ultrasound treatment with 12 cases and the group treated with corticosteroid infiltration with six cases. Both groups were treated at the initial consultation and then at four and eight weeks after the start of treatment. Results. The descriptive results related to the intensity of pain, evaluated with the Visual Numeric Scale, are shown. Infiltration obtained two cases without pain and four with moderate pain, contrary to ultrasound which was maintained with four mild, three moderate and five intense cases. In symptoms, infiltration reduced the number of cases in four of the symptoms studied, while ultrasound reduced the number of cases in only two. In severity, assessed with the Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire, with infiltration, there were two asymptomatic cases and none with ultrasound. Regarding clinical signs, Tinel's sign disappeared in four cases in both groups, while Phalen's sign disappeared in four cases in ultrasound and two in infiltration. Conclusion. Infiltration produced asymptomatic patients and reduced more symptoms than ultrasonography in terms of pain intensity and severity. Clinical symptoms were less common with both treatments.

Relationship between oral diseases and depression / 口腔疾病防治

@#Oral health is an integral component of overall well-being, with the oral cavity serving as a channel for external communication and expression of emotions such as stress and pessimism. Oral diseases can intensify feelings of depression, whereas depression can worsen oral health conditions. As a crucial part of the human microbiome, an imbalance in oral microbiota can release oral pathogenic microbes, which, through pathways including the circulation, nervous, and immune systems, can reach the brain and significantly affect the central nervous system. This can lead to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, further intensifying the development of depression. Similarly, an imbalance in oral microbiota in individuals with depression can intensify the occurrence of oral diseases. The relationship between depression and oral diseases is not isolated but rather a complex interplay in which they mutually influence and act as causative factors. To elucidate the causal relationship between oral diseases and depression and devise strategies for the prevention and treatment of both conditions, we explore the interaction mechanisms between oral diseases and depression from the perspective of oral microbiota. The occurrence of dental caries, periapical periodontitis, and periodontal diseases is closely associated with the excessive proliferation of specific bacteria in the oral cavity, such as Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Fusobacterium nucleatum. These bacteria can directly invade the brain through the compromised blood-brain barrier, activating pro-inflammatory cytokines and worsening depressive symptoms. Inflammatory conditions and ulcers in the oral mucosa are caused by various factors, including infection and immune abnormalities. Because of compromised immune function in individuals with depression, these inflammatory responses are often more severe and difficult to control. Malocclusion, trigeminal neuralgia, and temporomandibular joint disorders increase the risk of depression because of psychological stress and changes in the immune system. We also outline the diagnostic and therapeutic considerations for oral diseases in patients with depression, emphasizing the importance of early intervention for disease management. Future research will explore the therapeutic potential of oral microbiota in individuals with depression, with the aim to improve symptoms and treatment outcomes by adjusting oral microbiota, thus providing novel avenues for the prevention and treatment of depression.

Establishment and Evaluation of Mouse Model of Pregnancy Pain-depression Comorbidity Induced by Chronic Unpredictable Stress, Complete Freund's Adjuvant and Formalin / 实验动物与比较医学

Objective To establish a mouse model of pregnancy pain-depression comorbidity induced by chronic unpredictable stress (CUS), complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), and formalin, and to systematically evaluate the associated phenotypes and preliminarily explore the pathological basis of the comorbidity.Methods Eight-week-old C57BL/6J female mice were randomly strarified divided into a control group (no intervention before pregnancy) and a CUS model group (CUS intervention before pregnancy) based on sucrose preference test (SPT) data. After completing the CUS treatment, female and male mice were paired and mated. Pain was induced by injecting 50% CFA and 5% formalin in the right hind foot during pregnancy to create a model of pregnancy pain-depression comorbidity. The experiment was divided into 8 subgroups: control-blank group, CUS-blank group, control-CFA group, CUS-CFA group, control-formalin group, CUS-formalin group, control-CFA+formalin group, and CUS-CFA+formalin group, with 10 mice in each group. The mice in each group were subject to behavioral tests, including the SPT, forced swimming test, tail suspension test, and open field test before and after CUS intervention, during pregnancy, and after delivery. Pain sensitivity changes were measured using mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia tests. Mice were then euthanized. Levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in hippocampus, as well as cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in serum, were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).ResultsCompared with the control-blank group, the CUS-blank group showed a significant depression-like behavior with reduced pain threshold (P<0.001). The control-CFA+formalin group showed a decrease in pain threshold after both CFA injection and formalin injection (P<0.01). Compared with the control-blank and control-formalin groups, the pain threshold was significantly lower in the CUS-formalin group (P<0.01), with a sequential decrease among the three. Compared with the control-blank and control-CFA groups, the pain threshold was significantly lower in the CUS-CFA group (P<0.001), with a sequential decrease among the three. Compared with the control-blank and control-CFA+formalin groups, the mechanical pain threshold of mice in the CUS-CFA+formalin group was significantly lower (P<0.001) and the thermal radiation tolerance time was shorter (P<0.01), both with sequential decreases among the three. Compared with the control-CFA+formalin and the CUS-blank groups, the CUS-CFA+formalin group had a significantly lower percentage of sucrose preference (P<0.001), longer immobility time during the forced swimming test (P<0.001) and tail suspension test (P<0.001), reduced central exploration time in the open field test (P<0.001), reduced total exploration distance (P<0.001), and reduced percentage of distance traveled for central exploration (P<0.001). Compared with the control-CFA+formalin and CUS-blank groups, the serum cortisol and ACTH levels of the CUS-CFA+formalin group were significantly higher (P<0.01), and the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the hippocampus were higher (P<0.05).Conclusion The combination of CUS+CFA+formalin injections is an ideal method for establishing a C57BL/6J mouse model of pregnancy pain-depression comorbidity. The behavioral changes in model mice may be attributed to the regulation of inflammatory response in hippocampus and hormone levels in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Mechanism of Electroacupuncture in Functional Dyspepsia Rats Based on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis / 世界科学技术-中医药现代化

Objective We aimed to explore the therapeutic mechanism of electroacupuncture at Yintang(EX-HN3),Neiguan(PC6)and Zusanli(ST36)on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis(HPA)of functional dyspepsia(FD)rats.Methods Forty SD rats were randomly divided into blank group,model group and EA group.The FD model was replicated by tail clamping,irregular diet,and filling the stomach with ice of Saline Solution.After modeling,the EA group received acupuncture treatment for 1 time day,30 minutes time,for 14 days.Recording the general state of the rat.Detection of locomotion and catatonia in rats by open field test.HE staining to observe the morphology and inflammation of gastric mucosa in rats.PCR detection of mRNA expression of 5-hydroxytryptamine3 receptor and corticotropin-releasing hormone in rat hypothalamus.Detection of corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor-2 and NOD-like receptor protein 6 inflammasome protein expression in rat duodenum by Western blotting.Alcian blue staining was used to detect the expression of rat duodenum goblet cells.Results Compared with the blank group,the general state,distance,speed,duodenum CRHR2 and NLRP6 proteins in the model group were significantly decreased(P<0.05),the hypothalamic 5-HT3R and CRH mRNA were significantly increased(P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the general state,distance,speed,expression of CRHR2,NLRP6 protein and goblet cells in the duodenum of rats in the EA group were significantly increased(P<0.05),the 5-HT3R and CRH mRNA in the hypothalamus were significantly decreased(P<0.05).In the model group,the connective tissue of the gastric mucosa was loosely arranged,the submucosa had mild edema,and there were some lymphocytes.The connective tissue of the gastric mucosa of the rats in the blank group and the electroacupuncture group was closely arranged,and there was no obvious proliferation of interstitial cells and no inflammatory cells.Conclusion EA can increase the expression of CRHR2,NLRP6 protein and goblet cells in the duodenum,and inhibit the expression of 5-HT3R and CRH in the hypothalamus.EA can improve gastrointestinal motility and locomotion,relieve anxiety,repair the mucosal barrier of the defective intestine,and restore the function of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis.

Screening threshold for congenital adrenal hyperplasia in preterm and full-term infants by an indirect method / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To analyze the difference and reliability of blood 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), an indirect screening index for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), between preterm and full-term infants.Methods:In this retrospective cross-sectional study, a total of 210 285 newborns who underwent CAH screening at the Neonatal Screening Center of Shanghai Children′s Hospital from January 2019 to December 2022 were collected, including 14 312 premature infants and 195 973 full-term infants.The concentration of 17-OHP in dried blood spots on filter paper was determined by an automatic fluorescence analyzer.The distribution of 17-OHP levels in preterm and full-term infants and its statistical index were analyzed.The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used for normal distribution.The skewed distribution data was converted into approximately normal distribution using Box-Cox.Outliers were eliminated by the interquartile range method.The cumulative frequency distribution map was drawn by R language programming.The 99.5 th percentile value was used as the screening threshold and compared with the reference value given by the manufacturer or laboratory and with the reference change value (RCV). Results:According to the threshold provided by the laboratory, 26.76‰ of premature infants were tested positive in preliminary screening, and 4 were confirmed with an incidence of 1∶3 578, while 0.79‰ of full-term infants were tested positive in preliminary screening, and 11 were confirmed with an incidence of 1∶17 816.The thresholds for CAH screening established indirectly were 20.35 nmol/L in preterm infants and 10.78 nmol/L in full-term infants.The relative deviations between the indirect CAH screening thresholds and the manufacturer′s or laboratory′s CAH screening thresholds were higher than the RCV, respectively.According to the indirect CAH screening thresholds, the negative and positive coincidence rates of 65 samples in 13 batches from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention interlaboratory quality assessment program in the United States reached 100%.A retrospective analysis of 210 285 neonates showed that 17-OHP concentration was higher than the screening threshold in all CAH-positive neonates.The application of this screening threshold reduced the false positive rate of preterm infants by 59.79%.Conclusions:It is feasible to establish the CAH screening thresholds for premature and full-term infants by an indirect method, which can improve the efficiency of screening and provide better diagnostic basis for clinical practice.

Risk factors of depression and anxiety in epilepsy patients and their relationship with quality of life / 实用医学杂志

Objective To explore the risk factors of depression and anxiety in adult patients with epilepsy and their relationship with quality of life.Methods From May 2022 to January 2023,patients diagnosed with epilepsy(aged≥18 years)in the department of neurology of our hospital were collected.General demographic data and disease-related information were recorded.Quality of life,depression and anxiety scales were measured in all patients.SPSS26.0 software was used for multiple linear regression analysis,multiple ordered Logistic regression analysis,rank sum test,Pearson correlation analysis,etc.Results Among the 111 patients,49.5%had depression and 43.2%had anxiety.Depression score and anxiety score were correlated with attack type,attack frequency,quality of life and right temporal lobe,and there was a significant negative correlation between life quality score and anxiety and depression score(P<0.01).Seizure frequency,seizure type and right temporal lobe were common risk factors for depression and anxiety in patients with epilepsy(P<0.05).Conclusion Epileptic depression and anxiety were affected by seizure frequency and seizure type,and this bad mood further affected the quality of life of patients.No clear link has been found between the lateralization of seizures and the presence of depression and anxiety states,and further research is needed.

Manifestations of adult adrenal glands in intraoperative ultrasound / 中国医学影像技术

Objective To observe the manifestations of adult adrenal glands in intraoperative ultrasound(IOUS).Methods A total of 71 patients who underwent surgery for liver,biliary or pancreatic lesions were enrolled.Adrenal glands manifestations in IOUS were observed,and the displaying rate and the measured thickness of adrenal glands of IOUS were compared with those of CT/MRI.Results Adult adrenal gland manifested as bilateral weak echogenic structures with clear boundary and irregularly shape in IOUS.CT/MRI displaying rate of adrenal gland was 97.18％(138/142),of IOUS was 95.07％(135/142).IOUS displaying rate of the left side adrenal gland was 97.18％(69/71),of the right side adrenal gland was 92.96％(66/71),including 4 adrenal glands not shown on CT/MRI.The thickness of adrenal gland measured with IOUS was greater than those with CT/MRI(all P＜0.05).Conclusion IOUS of Adult adrenal glands present as bilateral weak echogenic structures with clear boundary and irregularly shape.IOUS displaying rate of adult adrenal gland was higher of the left side than the right side.

The incidence and metabolic profiles of adrenal incidentalomas in patients with diabetes / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Objective:To determine the incidence of adrenal incidentalomas(AIs) in patients with diabetes mellitus and the metabolism profiles.Methods:A total of 615 hospitalized patients with diabetes mellitus in the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism of Peking University People′s Hospital from March 2020 to May 2021 were retrospectively included in this study. AIs were screened by unenhanced chest computed tomography(CT) retrospectively and subsequently confirmed by multiplanar reconstruction. Participants′ physical indicators, metabolic profiles, and adrenal function parameters were collected. Unpaired t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Chi-Square test were adopted to compare the metabolism profiles between diabetes mellitus patients with or without AIs. Regression models were used to estimate the correlations between AIs and the metabolism profiles such as blood glucose, blood lipids, blood pressure, and the adrenal function parameters.Results:Twenty-seven out of 615 participants were detected with AIs(4.4%). Patients with AIs had higher body mass index, waist circumference, and hip circumference than patients without AIs [(29.4±5.1)kg/m 2vs(26.8±3.8)kg/m 2,P=0.018; (102.3±11.7)cm vs(95.8±10.3)cm, P=0.002; (107.3±10.1)cm vs(101.4±7.6)cm, P=0.008]. The levels of serum uric acid and urinary albumin/creatinine ratio were also significantly increased in patients with AIs [(409.6±118.1)μmol/L vs(357.4±100.6)μmol/L, P=0.009; 21.25(7.49, 180.24)mg/g vs 8.60(4.71, 34.56)mg/g, P=0.010]. Besides, individuals with AIs were also associated with a higher risk of co-existing hypertension( P=0.045). Conclusion:The incidence of AIs in patients with diabetes is 4.4%. The presence of AIs in patients with diabetes may associated with increased risk of obesity and hypertension.

Diagnosis of fetal adrenal hematoma through prenatal ultrasound: a case report and literature review / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the ultrasonic characteristics and evolution pattern of fetal adrenal hematoma (AH).Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of one fetal AH diagnosed at the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University. The study involved a comprehensive search of the relevant cases of fetal AH published from January 1, 1989, to December 31, 2022, in the Yiigle database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, Wanfang Database, and PubMed Database. The clinical features, sonographic characteristics, interventions, and prognosis of fetal AH were summarized. Descriptive statistical analysis was used.Results:(1) Case: An ultrasound at 36 +3 weeks of pregnancy detected a mixed echogenic nodule at the fetal left adrenal region, with clear border and no obvious blood flow signal. Fetal AH was considered. Observations from the close ultrasound follow-up on the case before and after birth, and one year and eight months after birth presented a gradual transformation of the lesion from mixed echogenic to solid echogenic and a reduction following enlargement in lesion size. The lesion was ultimately liquefied and absorbed. (2) Literature review: A total of 12 cases of fetal AH that had clear diagnosis and ultrasound data were retrieved and added to the present case, for a total of 13 cases. Neither prenatal maternal nor postnatal typical clinical manifestations were observed in fetal AH cases. In cases with large hemorrhage and/or bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, mild jaundice and feeding difficulties may be present. Two cases were terminated, one live baby died of heart failure due to vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation, other ten had good prognosis. Fetal AH ultrasound image features demonstrated time-dependent changes, progressing in the sequence of anechoicity, solid echogenicity, mixed echogenicity, and complete absorption of the lesion, or residual hyperechogenicity. Conclusions:Fetal AH is a rare condition that exhibits characteristic transformations in ultrasound image features over time. Conducting close follow-up ultrasound examinations is the preferred and crucial approach to the diagnosis of fetal AH.

The feasibility and safety of simultaneous bilateral adrenal vein sampling using 4F-MPA1 catheter via right elbow vein access:preliminary results in 51 patients / 介入放射学杂志

Objective To discuss the feasibility and safety of simultaneous bilateral adrenal vein sampling(AVS)using two 4F-MPA1 catheters via right elbow vein access.Methods A total of 51 consecutive patients with primary aldosteronism,who received simultaneous bilateral AVS using two 4F-MPA1 catheters(one of the two catheters was shaped into pig tail figure)via right elbow vein access at Xiangyang Municipal Central Hospital between October 2021 and October 2022,were enrolled in this study.The used catheter,the success rate of simultaneous bilateral AVS,and the incidence of complications rate were calculated.Results The 4F-MPA1 catheter was used for all of the right AVS,while a specially shaped 4F-MPA1 catheter was used for the main trunk vein AVS of the left adrenal gland and the central vein AVS of the left adrenal gland.The success rate of simultaneous bilateral AVS was 92.2%(47/51).Adrenal hematoma occurred in one patient(1.96%).Conclusion The technique of simultaneous bilateral AVS using two 4F-MPA1 catheters via right elbow vein access is simple to operate,less traumatic,and clinically safe and feasible.However,due to the small sample used in this study,the clinical value of this technique still needs further investigation and verification.

Protective effect of LW-AFC against fear sensitization induced by traumatic stress / 军事医学

Objective To investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of Liuwei Dihuang Glucoside(LW-AFC)against fear sensitization induced by traumatic stress.Methods Mice were divided into naive,control,stressed and LW-AFC administration groups.The LW-AFC treated group received LW-AFC(1.6 g/kg daily)via oral gavage for two weeks following exposure to traumatic stress.The non-associative memory dependent fear sensitization responses in mice subjected to trauma were investigated,including behavior in novel environments,social interaction,and observational fear tests.Z-score normalization method was employed to integrate and assess multiple behavioral variables such as travel distance,freezing time,and corner time,and comprehensively examined fear sensitization behaviors across the groups.Additionally,serum concentrations of adrenocorticotropic hormone,corticosterone,aldosterone,renin,angiotensin Ⅱ,and aldosterone were measured using ELISA.Results Compared to the control group,stressed mice exhibited significantly reduced travel distance(P<0.0001)and increased freezing time(P<0.0001)in the new context test.Integrated Z-scores indicated a significant increase in fear behavior among stressed mice during the new context test(P<0.0001).In the social interaction test,stressed mice demonstrated significantly reduced travel distance(P<0.0001),increased freezing time(P<0.0001),increased corner time(P<0.05),and higher integrated Z-scores(P<0.0001).In the observational fear test,stressed mice showed significantly reduced travel distance(P<0.05),increased freezing time(P<0.001),increased corner time(P<0.05),and higher integrated Z-scores(P<0.0001).Compared to the stressed group,mice in the LW-AFC treated group displayed trends toward improvement in travel distance,freezing time,corner time,and integrated Z-scores in the new context tests,albeit without statistical significance.In the social interaction test,the LW-AFC treated group exhibited a significant reduction in freezing time(P<0.05)and integrated Z-scores(P<0.05).In the observational fear test,the LW-AFC treated group showed a significant reduction in freezing time(P<0.05)and integrated Z-scores(P<0.01).Compared to the naive group,control and stressed groups exhibited an increased trend in renin and aldosterone levels after the fear sensitization test.Although there were no significant differences between stressed and control groups,renin and aldosterone levels significantly increased between stressed and naive groups(P<0.05,P<0.05).Following LW-AFC treatment,serum renin levels showed no significant change,while aldosterone levels significantly decreased(P<0.05).Conclusion Stressed mice exhibited significant fear sensitization behavior in new context,social interaction,and observational fear tests,possibly associated with partial activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system(RAAS)system.LW-AFC treatment significantly mitigated fear sensitization behavior of stressed mice in social interaction and observational fear test,potentially due to its regulatory effects on the RAAS system in mice subjected to traumatic stress.

Systemic Hormonal Unloading (SHU) in secondary hypertension: Addressing the long-term adverse cardiovascular outcomes

@#Excess hormone production from adrenal tumors caused by primary hyperaldosteronism or pheochromocytoma are common etiologies for secondary hypertension. Studies have shown that sustained long-term circulating hormones in excess affect the blood vessels and cardiac structures. Inflammation of cardiomyocytes leads to fibrosis and eventual cardiomyopathy and is clinically presented as arrhythmia, nonfatal myocardial infarction, heart failure, or even death. The tissue changes and/or impaired cardiac function are reversible if early diagnosis and removal of the adrenal tumor by unilateral adrenalectomy is done. However, the condition becomes challenging if the adrenal lesions are bilateral. This article introduces the concept of systemic hormonal unloading and will discuss the philosophy of quality of life in managing bilateral adrenal disease.

Syndromes and Mechanisms of Depression Induced by Second Hit in Mice / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the syndromes and mechanisms of depression induced by maternal separation （MS） combined with chronic restraint stress （RS） in mice. MethodOn postnatal day 0 （PD0）， the offspring mice were randomized into a blank group （NC） and a modeling group. The mouse model of depression was established by MS+RS for 21 days. After removal of female mice on PD21， the modeled mice were randomized into model， Wenyang， Jieyu， Wenyang Jieyu， and fluoxetine groups， with 15 mice in each group. The sucrose preference， tail suspension， and open field tests were carried out to evaluate the anxiety and depression-like behavior in mice. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the adrenocorticotrophic hormone （ACTH） and corticosterone （CORT） levels in mouse plasma. High performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detector was used to determine the content of monoamine neurotransmitters in the hippocampus. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction was employed to determine the mRNA levels of genes in the 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT） system， hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal （HPA） axis， and brain-derived neurotrophic factor （BDNF） signaling pathway in the hippocampus. Immunohistochemistry was employed to determine the expression levels of proteins in the 5-HT system and HPA axis in the hippocampus. The Simple Western system was used to determine the protein levels of BDNF and tyrosine kinase receptor B （TrkB） in the hippocampus. ResultCompared with the NC group， the model group exhibited depression-like behavior， which was significantly relieved by Wenyang Jieyu prescription and fluoxetine. Compared with the NC group， the model group showed elevated levels of CORT and ACTH in the plasma （P<0.01）， which， however， were lowered by Wenyang Jieyu prescription and fluoxetine （P<0.05， P<0.01）. Compared with the NC group， the model group showed inhibited expression of neurotransmitters in the hippocampus （P<0.05， P<0.01）， while Wenyang Jieyu prescription and fluoxetine restored the expression of neurotransmitters （P<0.05， P<0.01）. Compared with NC group， the model group showed inhibition of the 5-HTergic nerve and abnormal activation of the HPA axis， and Wenyang Jieyu prescription and fluoxetine regulated the abnormal state of the 5-HTergic nerve and HPA axis. Compared with NC group， the modeling down-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of BDNF and TrkB in the hippocampus （P<0.05， P<0.01）， which， however， were recovered in Wenyang， Jieyu， Wenyang Jieyu， and fluoxetine groups （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionThe mouse model of depression induced by MS+RS may present the syndrome of Yang deficiency and liver depression. Wenyang Jieyu prescription may increase the content of hippocampal neurotransmitters by regulating the 5-HT system and the BDNF signaling pathway mediated by the HPA axis， thereby alleviating depression-like behavior in mice.

Hipoacusia en el síndrome de Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Hearing loss in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome: case report and literature review

El síndrome de Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) es una rara enfermedad granulomatosa multisistémica caracterizada por aparición de panuveítis grave bilateral y desprendimiento seroso de retina; puede acompañarse de un amplio espectro de síntomas extraoculares como los auditivos, y la afección más frecuente es la hipoacusia neurosensorial. Su etiología se reconoce como respuesta autoinmune mediada por células T contra antígenos de melanocitos presentes en coroides, meninges, cóclea y piel. Asimismo, factores genéticos del huésped se han identificado como predisponentes para su aparición, y es la presencia del alelo HLA-DR4, en particular el subtipo HLA-DRB1 0405, el más estudiado hasta la fecha. El tratamiento se basa en administración de corticosteroides sistémicos en dosis altas, sin embargo, es escasa la evidencia que evalúa específicamente la eficacia de estos medicamentos sobre sus manifestaciones audiovestibulares. Este artículo expone un caso de síndrome de VKH con compromiso auditivo concomitante y realiza una breve revisión narrativa de la literatura.

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome (VKHS) is a rare multisystemic granulomatous disease, characterized by severe bilateral panuveitis and serous retinal detachment; it can be associated with a wide spectrum of extraocular symptoms, such as auditory symptoms, and the most common condition is sensorineural hearing loss. Its etio-logy is recognized as a T-cell-mediated autoimmune response against melanocyte antigens present in the choroid, meninges, cochlea, and skin. Likewise, host genetic factors have been identified as predisposing for its development, specifically the pre-sence of the HLA-DR4 allele, the HLA-DRB1 0405 subtype is the most studied up to date. Treatment is based on the administration of high doses of systemic corticos-teroids, however, there is not much evidence that specifically evaluates the efficacy of these medications on their audiovestibular manifestations. This article presents a clinical case of VKH syndrome with concomitant hearing impairment and carries out a short narrative review of the literature.

Adrenal morphology and cortical function in patients with extrapulmonary tuberculosis: response to antituberculosis treatment

ABSTRACT Objective: Enlargement of the adrenal glands and variable adrenocortical function have been reported in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and, in a few studies, in patients with extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB). However, none of the studies have evaluated the course of the adrenal morphology in these patients. Subjects and methods: Prospective study including 37 patients with EPTB and 37 healthy age- and sex-matched controls. The adrenal function was evaluated by measurement of cortisol levels at baseline and after stimulation with ACTH (Acton Prolongatum) before and 6 months after antituberculosis treatment. The size of both adrenal glands was evaluated using 64-slice computed tomography (CT) scanning before and 6 months after treatment. The findings were compared with those in a group of healthy matched controls. Results: Clinical and biochemical parameters were comparable between groups. The mean baseline serum cortisol level was significantly lower in the EPTB group (397.1 ± 184.9 nmol/L) compared with the control group (696.3 ± 101.8 nmol/L). Compared with controls, patients with EPTB had significantly lower mean cortisol levels at baseline and 1 hour after ACTH, both before (397 ± 184.9 nmol/L and 750.7 ± 176.8 nmol/L, respectively) and after (529.7 ± 100.4 nmol/L and 1017.2 ± 119.7 nmol/L, respectively) antituberculosis treatment. Both the length and thickness of the right and left adrenal glands were greater in patients with EPTB than in controls but became comparable to those in controls after treatment completion. Conclusions: Patients with EPTB have an enlarged adrenal size and low baseline and stimulated serum cortisol levels. After treatment completion, cortisol levels increased significantly, and the adrenal size normalized in these patients.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids on fetal hemodynamics: a longitudinal study / Efeitos do corticoide antenatal na hemodinâmica fetal: um estudo longitudinal

Abstract Objective: To study the effect of antenatal corticosteroid administration on fetal hemodynamics using longitudinal analysis of Doppler waveforms in the umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study that included 30 fetuses at risk for preterm birth. Twenty-eight pregnant women were treated with betamethasone for fetal lung maturation. Doppler examinations of the UA and MCA were performed once before and three or eight times after corticosteroid administration. We used a Bayesian hierarchical linear model. Reference ranges were constructed, and associations between variables (gestational age and pre-eclampsia) were tested. Results: The mean maternal age, gestational age at betamethasone administration, and gestational age at delivery were 32.6 ± 5.89 years, 30.2 ± 2.59 weeks, and 32.9 ± 3.42 weeks, respectively. On UA Doppler, there was a significant decrease in the pulsatility index (PI) after corticosteroid administration, with a mean of 0.1147 (credibility interval: 0.03687-0.191) in three observations and a median of 0.1437 (credibility interval: 0.02509-0.2627) in eight observations. However, there was no significant change in the Doppler MCA PI, regardless of gestational age and the presence or absence of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: Although antenatal corticosteroid administration induced a significant decrease in the Doppler UA PI, we observed no change in the cerebral vasculature.

Resumo Objetivo: Estudar o efeito da administração antenatal de corticosteroides na hemodinâmica fetal mediante análise longitudinal do Doppler na artéria umbilical e artéria cerebral média (ACM). Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 30 fetos com risco de nascimento pré-termo. Vinte e oito gestantes foram tratadas com betametasona para maturação pulmonar fetal. Os exames de Doppler da AU e da ACM foram realizados uma vez antes e depois da administração de corticosteroides, num total de três ou oito observações. Utilizamos o modelo linear hierárquico com abordagem Bayesiana. Foram construídos os intervalos de referência e testadas associações entre variáveis (idade gestacional e pré-eclâmpsia). Resultados: A média ± desvio-padrão da idade materna, idade gestacional na administração de betametasona e idade gestacional no parto foram 32,6 ± 5,89 anos, 30,2 ± 2,59 semanas e 32,9 ± 3,42 semanas, respectivamente. No Doppler da AU, verificou-se diminuição significativa do índice de pulsatilidade (IP) com a terapêutica com corticosteroides (média: 0,1147 [0,03687-0,191]; em três observações) (mediana: 0,1437 [0,02509-0,2627]; em oito observações). No entanto, não foi observada alteração significativa no IP do Doppler da ACM, independentemente da idade gestacional e do diagnóstico de pré-eclâmpsia. Conclusão: Os corticosteroides pré-natais induziram diminuição significativa no IP do Doppler da AU, mas não houve alteração na vasculatura cerebral.

Hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita clásica de presentación neonatal: reporte de un caso clínico / Neonatal classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia: clinical case study / Hiperplasia adrenal congênita clássica de apresentação neonatal: relato de caso clínico

Introducción: la hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita (HSC) comprende un conjunto de enfermedades hereditarias que involucran alteraciones en el ciclo del cortisol a nivel enzimático. La forma clásica tiene una incidencia de 1:14.000 a 1:18.000 nacimientos, mientras que la no clásica se presenta en 1:2.000 recién nacidos. Según la enzima involucrada, las manifestaciones clínicas varían desde asintomáticas a alteraciones en medio interno que comprometen la vida, por lo que debe tenerse un alto nivel de sospecha clínica para diagnosticarla en forma oportuna. En Uruguay, desde el año 2007, se cuenta con el pesquisaje de la 17-OH progesterona, producto aumentado en la forma más frecuente de HSC. El diagnóstico prenatal mediante la búsqueda de mutaciones en el gen CYP21A2, a través de punción de vellosidades coriales o amniocentesis, o del ADN fetal en sangre materna se recomienda en HSC con ambos padres portadores de la mutación severa y el antecedente de un hijo previo con la forma clásica. El tratamiento prenatal se considera en etapa experimental, con dexametasona en fetos femeninos con riesgo de enfermedad clásica, manteniéndose con la confirmación hasta el parto. Se presenta el caso clínico de una recién nacida de 11 días con HSC perdedora de sal y virilización de genitales externos, diagnosticada por la pesquisa neonatal. Se reporta su manejo interdisciplinario y evolución. Conclusiones: la hiperplasia suprarrenal es una enfermedad hereditaria potencialmente grave. La pesquisa neonatal constituye una herramienta efectiva para la detección de esta enfermedad. El manejo multidisciplinario es clave para el seguimiento y la optimización del tratamiento.

Introduction: congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) involves a set of hereditary diseases that include alterations in the cortisol cycle, at enzymatic level. The classic variant has an incidence of 1:14,000 to 1:18,000 births, while the non-classic one occurs in 1:2,000 newborns. As a result of the enzyme involved, the clinical manifestations change from asymptomatic to alterations in the internal environment that compromise life, so clinical suspicion must be high in order to diagnose it in a timely manner. The diagnosis is more frequently made by neonatal screening than by physical examination, and it is a more sensitive method, especially in males, since there are no changes at the level of external genitalia. The implementation of screening has reduced the time prior to diagnosis. In Uruguay, since 2007, a universal screening has been carried out measuring 17-OH progesterone, which is increased in the most frequent form of CAH. Treatment is lifelong, consisting of oral glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone) and mineralocorticoids (fludrocortisone). We recommend prenatal diagnosis by searching for mutations in the CYP21A2 gene through chorionic villus puncture or amniocentesis, or fetal DNA in maternal blood in cases of CAH if both parents are carriers of the severe mutation and have a history of a previous classic case. Prenatal treatment with dexamethasone is considered in the experimental stage, in female fetuses at risk of the standard disease, which is maintained until birth if confirmed. We present a clinical case of an 11-day-old newborn with salt-wasting congenital adrenal hyperplasia and virilization of the external genitalia, diagnosed by neonatal screening. We report her management and interdisciplinary evolution. Conclusion: adrenal hyperplasia is a potentially serious inherited disease. Neonatal screening is an effective tool for detecting this disease. Multidisciplinary management is key to monitoring and optimizing treatment.

Introdução: a hiperplasia adrenal congênita (HAC) compreende um conjunto de doenças hereditárias que envolvem alterações no ciclo do cortisol, em nível enzimático. A forma clássica tem incidência de 1:14.000 a 1:18.000 nascimentos, enquanto a forma não clássica ocorre em 1:2.000 recém-nascidos. Dependendo da enzima envolvida, as manifestações clínicas variam de assintomáticas até alterações do ambiente interno que comprometem a vida, portanto é necessário ter um alto nível de suspeita clínica para diagnosticá-la em forma precoce. No Uruguai, desde 2007, existe triagem para 17-OH progesterona, produto aumentado na forma mais frequente de HAC. O diagnóstico pré-natal pela busca de mutações no gene CYP21A2 por meio de punção de vilosidades coriônicas ou amniocentese, ou DNA fetal no sangue materno é recomendado na HAC com ambos os pais portadores da mutação grave e história de filho anterior com a forma clássica. O tratamento pré-natal é considerado em fase experimental, com dexametasona em fetos femininos com risco de doença clássica, continuando com confirmação até o parto. É apresentado o caso clínico de um recém-nascido de 11 dias com hiperplasia adrenal congênita perdedora de sal e virilização da genitália externa, diagnosticado por triagem neonatal. Relatamos sua gestão interdisciplinar e evolução. Conclusões: a hiperplasia adrenal é uma doença hereditária potencialmente grave. A triagem neonatal é uma ferramenta eficaz para detectar esta doença. O manejo multidisciplinar é fundamental para monitorar e otimizar o tratamento.

Evaluation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis during the post-COVID-19 period in patients treated with steroids during the illness

ABSTRACT Objective: COVID-19 is a multisystem immunoinflammatory disorder, and the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis may be affected by SARS-CoV-2 as well as by steroid treatment during the illness. Information on the HPA axis after recovering from COVID-19, especially in those treated with steroids, is sparse. Hence, this study was performed to evaluate the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis during the post-COVID-19 period in patients treated with steroids during the illness. Subject and methods: This prospective study involved 60 patients aged 18-60 years who had recovered from moderate or severe COVID-19 and had received steroid treatment during the illness. The HPA axis was assessed with a low-dose (1 mcg) adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test at 3, 6 and 9 months in the post-COVID period. Results: The HPA axis was suppressed in 31.66% of the patients at 3 months and 5% at 6 months; however, all patients recovered at 9 months. Cumulative steroid use during the illness was inversely correlated with stimulated cortisol at 3 months in the post-COVID period. Fatigue was present in 58.33% of the patients at 3 months and was more prevalent in those with HPA axis suppression. Conclusion: Nearly one-third of the patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 who were treated with steroids had suppressed HPA axis at 3 months, with gradual recovery over a period of 9 months. Cumulative steroid equivalent dose, but not disease severity, was predictive of HPA axis suppression at 3 months.

Bilateral giant adrenal myelolipoma associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia / Mielolipoma adrenal gigante bilateral associado a hiperplasia adrenal congênita

Adrenal myelolipomas are rare benign tumors, often non-functioning, located in the adrenal cortex, consisting mainly of mature adipose tissue and hematopoietic tissue. Although uncommon, the number of reported cases has increased due to the greater use of diagnostic imaging techniques. This tumor is usually unilateral and found as an adrenal incidentaloma, although there is a predominance of bilaterality in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In this study, we report the case of a 33-year-old male patient with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, in non-regular use of the control medication, with bilateral giant adrenal myelolipoma and subsequent evolution of bilateral testicular adrenal rest tumors. He underwent bilateral adrenalectomy by video laparoscopy. The anatomopathological analysis, which confirmed myelolipomas' diagnosis, revealed the right adrenal with 430 g and 12.5 x 9.3 cm and the left with 257 g and 11.5 x 10.4 cm. This tumor may be accompanied by adrenocortical adenoma and carcinoma, ganglioneuroma, pheochromocytoma, Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, or CAH. Among the hypotheses of its pathogenesis, we highlight an association between the development of adrenal myelolipoma and chronic hormonal stimulation by the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), especially in CAH. The non-regular treatment of CAH with glucocorticoids may have contributed to the chronic and elevated secretion of ACTH and, consequently, to the development of bilateral giant adrenal myelolipoma (AU).

Mielolipomas adrenais são tumores benignos raros, com frequência não-funcionantes, localizados no córtex da adrenal, constituídos, principalmente, por tecido adiposo maduro e tecido hematopoético. Apesar de incomum, o número de casos relatados tem aumentado devido ao maior uso de técnicas diagnósticas de imagens. Esse tumor é geralmente unilateral e encontrado como um incidentaloma adrenal, embora haja predominância de bilateralidade em casos de portadores de hiperplasia adrenal congênita (HAC). Neste estudo, relatamos o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino, de 33 anos, portador de HAC por deficiência de 21-hidroxilase, em uso não-regular da medicação de controle, com mielolipoma adrenal gigante bilateral e posterior evolução de tumor bilateral testicular de restos de adrenais. Ele foi submetido à adrenalectomia bilateral por videolaparoscopia. A análise anátomo-patológica, que confirmou o diagnóstico de mielolipomas, revelou adrenal direita com 430 g e 12,5 x 9,3 cm, e esquerda com 257 g e 11,5 x 10,4 cm. Esse tumor pode vir acompanhado de adenoma e carcinoma adrenocortical, glanglioneuroma, feocromocitoma, doença de Addison, Síndrome de Cushing ou HAC. Dentre as hipóteses de sua patogênese, des-tacamos uma associação entre o desenvolvimento do mielolipoma adrenal e a estimulação hormonal crônica pelo hormônio adrenocorticotrófico (ACTH), especialmente na HAC. O tratamento não-regular da HAC com glicocorticoides pode ter contribuído para a secreção crônica e elevada de ACTH e, consequentemente, para o desenvolvimento do mielolipoma adrenal gigante bilateral (AU).

Tumor glómico de intestino delgado / Glomus tumor of the small bowel

RESUMEN Los tumores glómicos (TG) son neoplasias vasculares benignas de tejidos blandos en zonas acrales periféricas. La mayoría de los TG intraabdominales se producen en el estómago; su presentación intestinal es de muy baja incidencia. Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 26 años, que consultó por dolor abdominal crónico de baja intensidad en región umbilical sin otra signo sintomatología. Se completó su estudio imagenológico y se detectó una lesión abdominopélvica heterogénea con componente sólido vascularizado, y líquido con proyecciones papilares. El informe de la patología de la pieza quirúrgica arrojó el diagnóstico de TG de intestino delgado. Se realizó una consulta que demuestra su baja incidencia: afecta a personas entre 26 y 88 años de ambos sexos en igual proporción, sin una distribución geográfica predominante. Los TG deben considerarse como un raro diagnóstico diferencial ante tumores del intestino delgado (ID).

ABSTRACT Glomus tumors (GTs) are benign vascular neoplasms of soft tissues that occur in peripheral acral areas. Most intra-abdominal GTs develop in the stomach; the incidence of intestinal presentation is very low, We report the case of a 26-year-old female patient with chronic mild pain in the umbilical region with no other symptoms or signs. The imaging tests demonstrated a heterogeneous abdominopelvic mass with a solid vascularized component, and a cystic component with papillary projections. The pathology examination of the surgical specimen reported the diagnosis of GT of the small bowel (SB). We conducted a review of the literature and found their low incidence, affecting both men and women between 26 and 88 years without a predominant geographic distribution. Glomus tumors should be considered as a rare differential diagnosis in the presence of small SB tumors.