Genotoxic and cytotoxic evaluation of venlafaxine in an acute and a subchronic assay in mouse

Abstract The present research was made to determine the micronuclei and cytotoxic capacity of the antidepressant venlafaxine in an in vivo acute and subchronic assays in mouse. In the first study, we administered once 5, 50, and 250 mg/kg of the drug, and included a negative and a daunorubicin treated group. Observations were daily made during four days. The subchronic assay lasted 5 weeks with daily administration of venlafaxine (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg) plus a negative and an imipramine administered groups. Observations were made each week. In the first assay results showed no micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPE) increase, except with the high dose at 72 h. The strongest cytotoxic effect was found with 250 mg/kg at 72 h (a 51% cytotoxic effect in comparison with the mean control level). In the subchronic assay no MNPE increase was found; however, with the highest dose a significant increase of micronucleated normochromatic erythrocytes was observed in the last three weeks (a mean of 51% respect to the mean control value). A cytotoxic effect with the two high doses in the last two weeks was observed (a polychromatic erythrocyte mean decrease of 52% respect to the mean control value). Results suggest caution with venlafaxine.

Resumo A presente pesquisa foi feita para determinar a capacidade micronuclei e citotóxica do antidepressivo venlafaxina em ensaios agudos e subcrônicos in vivo em camundongos. No primeiro estudo, administramos uma vez 5, 50 e 250 mg/kg do medicamento e incluímos um grupo negativo e um grupo tratado com daunorubicina. As observações foram feitas diariamente durante quatro dias. O ensaio subcrônico durou cinco semanas com administração diária de venlafaxina (1, 5, e 10 mg/kg) mais um grupo negativo e um grupo administrado de imipramina. As observações foram feitas a cada semana. No primeiro ensaio, os resultados não mostraram aumento de eritrócitos policromáticos micronucleados (MNPE), exceto com a dose elevada a 72 h. O efeito citotóxico mais forte foi encontrado com 250 mg/kg a 72 h (um efeito citotóxico de 51% em comparação com o nível médio de controle). No ensaio subcrônico não foi encontrado aumento de MNPE; entretanto, com a dose mais alta, um aumento significativo de eritrócitos normocromáticos micronucleados foi observado nas últimas três semanas (média de 51% em relação ao valor médio de controle). Foi observado um efeito citotóxico com as duas altas doses nas últimas duas semanas (uma diminuição média de 52% em relação ao valor médio de controle dos eritrócitos policromáticos). Os resultados sugerem cautela com a venlafaxina.

Genotoxic and cytotoxic evaluation of venlafaxine in an acute and a subchronic assay in mouse / Avaliação genotóxica e citotóxica da venlafaxina em ensaio agudo e subcrônico em camundongos

Abstract The present research was made to determine the micronuclei and cytotoxic capacity of the antidepressant venlafaxine in an in vivo acute and subchronic assays in mouse. In the first study, we administered once 5, 50, and 250 mg/kg of the drug, and included a negative and a daunorubicin treated group. Observations were daily made during four days. The subchronic assay lasted 5 weeks with daily administration of venlafaxine (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg) plus a negative and an imipramine administered groups. Observations were made each week. In the first assay results showed no micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPE) increase, except with the high dose at 72 h. The strongest cytotoxic effect was found with 250 mg/kg at 72 h (a 51% cytotoxic effect in comparison with the mean control level). In the subchronic assay no MNPE increase was found; however, with the highest dose a significant increase of micronucleated normochromatic erythrocytes was observed in the last three weeks (a mean of 51% respect to the mean control value). A cytotoxic effect with the two high doses in the last two weeks was observed (a polychromatic erythrocyte mean decrease of 52% respect to the mean control value). Results suggest caution with venlafaxine.

Resumo A presente pesquisa foi feita para determinar a capacidade micronuclei e citotóxica do antidepressivo venlafaxina em ensaios agudos e subcrônicos in vivo em camundongos. No primeiro estudo, administramos uma vez 5, 50 e 250 mg/kg do medicamento e incluímos um grupo negativo e um grupo tratado com daunorubicina. As observações foram feitas diariamente durante quatro dias. O ensaio subcrônico durou cinco semanas com administração diária de venlafaxina (1, 5, e 10 mg/kg) mais um grupo negativo e um grupo administrado de imipramina. As observações foram feitas a cada semana. No primeiro ensaio, os resultados não mostraram aumento de eritrócitos policromáticos micronucleados (MNPE), exceto com a dose elevada a 72 h. O efeito citotóxico mais forte foi encontrado com 250 mg/kg a 72 h (um efeito citotóxico de 51% em comparação com o nível médio de controle). No ensaio subcrônico não foi encontrado aumento de MNPE; entretanto, com a dose mais alta, um aumento significativo de eritrócitos normocromáticos micronucleados foi observado nas últimas três semanas (média de 51% em relação ao valor médio de controle). Foi observado um efeito citotóxico com as duas altas doses nas últimas duas semanas (uma diminuição média de 52% em relação ao valor médio de controle dos eritrócitos policromáticos). Os resultados sugerem cautela com a venlafaxina.

Hemorragia del tracto digestivo superior, enfoque para el médico general / Upper digestive tract bleeding, approach for the general Practitioner / Hemorragia do trato digestivo superior, enfoque para o médico geral

La hemorragia del tracto digestivo superior (HTDS) es el sangrado originado por encima del ángulo de Treitz. A pesar del aumento en las estrategias de prevención, del incremento en los tratamientos con Inhibidor de bomba de protones (IBP) y de la intervención endoscópica temprana, esta patología sigue siendo una causa frecuente de consulta a urgencias, con una morbimortalidad no despreciable y alta carga para el sistema de salud. Esta revisión se enfoca en la HTDS de causa diferente a las varices. La principal causante de esta entidad es la enfermedad ácido-péptica, que es consecuencia del gran consumo de antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (AINES) y de la infección por Helicobacter Pylori. Otras causas son el síndrome de Mallory Weiss, la esofagitis erosiva, las malformaciones arteriovenosas y la malignidad.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) refers to any bleeding originating above the angle of Treitz. Despite an increase in prevention strategies, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy and early endoscopic intervention, this pathology continues to be an important cause of admission to the emergency department for gastrointestinal causes, having a pretty high morbidity and mortality in addition to a high burden on the health system. This review focuses on non-variceal UGIB. The main cause of this entity being peptic acid disease, due to great consumption of NSAIDs and Helicobacter Pylori infection. Other causes are Mallory Weiss syndrome, erosive esophagitis, arteriovenous malformations, and malignancy.

A hemorragia do trato digestivo superior (HTDS) é o sangrado originado acima do ângulo de Treitz. Apesar do aumento nas estratégias de prevenção, do incremento nos tratamentos com Inibidor da bomba de prótons (IBP) e da intervenção endoscópica precoce, esta patologia segue sendo uma causa frequente de consulta a urgências, com uma morbimortalidade não depreciável e alta carga para o sistema de saúde. Esta revisão se enfoca na HTDS de causa diferente às varizes. A principal causante desta entidade é a doença ácido-péptica, que é consequência do grande consumo de anti-inflamatórios não esteróideos (AINES) e da infecção por HelicobacterPylori. Outras causas são a síndrome de Mallory Weiss, a esofagites erosiva, as malformações arteriovenosas e a malignidade. Palavras-chave: hemorragia gastrointestinal; úlcera péptica; endoscopia gastrointestinal; inibidores da bomba de prótons; medicina geral.

Centro de Isótopos: acciones en beneficio de la salud pública / Center of Isotope: actions for the benefit of public health

RESUMEN En tributo a los cinco siglos de ciudad el Centro de Isótopos hace recuento de su actividad. La obtención de compuestos marcados con radionucleidos y otros trabajos radioquímicos en el Instituto de Física Nuclear, inaugurado en 1969, estimularon las aplicaciones de las fuentes radiactivas abiertas, por lo que puede considerarse el antecedente organizado más palpable del centro. Posteriormente en los años 80, la Secretaria Ejecutiva para Asuntos Nucleares aceleró, diversificó y amplió las aplicaciones, desarrolló la formación de cuadros y especialistas y la colaboración internacional. La puesta en operación del Centro de Estudios Aplicados al Desarrollo de la Energía Nuclear coincidió con la consolidación de un grupo de instituciones de investigación y producción biotecnológica y con el auge de las aplicaciones en Medicina Nuclear. Pronto se reconoció que no era posible continuar el manejo de un inventario cada vez mayor de radionucleidos, por lo que se diseñó y construyó un centro especializado a ciclo completo: investigación-desarrollo, producción y comercialización, el CENTIS. Durante su integración en 1994 a la Agencia de Energía Nuclear, se concluyó la inversión y se establecieron las metodologías de producción de los más importantes radiofármacos. En más de 20 años de labor CENTIS se ha convertido en el principal soporte de la Medicina Nuclear del país. Con sus capacidades metrológicas en la magnitud radiactividad y sus investigaciones no clínicas y clínicas, se inserta de forma cada vez más estrecha en la vida socio-económica del país y su capital. En el trabajo se detallan los principales resultados de cada etapa en lo relacionado a la misión del centro y se hace una valoración técnica de hacia dónde se encaminan acciones en favor de sus sectores destino: salud e investigación biomédica. Lustros en favor de siglos.

ABSTRACT To commemorate the 500th anniversary of the city of Havana, the Isotope Center reviews its activity since its creation. The production of radionuclidemarked compounds and other radiochemical work at the Institute of Nuclear Physics, inaugurated in 1969, stimulated the applications of open radioactive sources, which can be considered as the most tangible organized antecedent of the center. Later in the 1980s, the Executive Secretary for Nuclear Affairs accelerated, diversified and expanded nuclear applications, developed the training of highly qualified staff and experts as well as international cooperation. The creation of the Center for Applied Nuclear Development Studies coincided with the consolidation of a group of biotechnological research and production institutions and with these applications gaining importance in Nuclear Medicine. It was soon recognized that it was not possible to continue managing a growing inventory of radionuclides. As a result, CENTIS, a specialized center with a complete cycle, was designed and built, which comprised not only research and development, but also production and marketing. When in 1994 CENTIS became part of the Nuclear Energy Agency, investment was concluded and the production methodologies of the most important radiopharmaceuticals were established. In more than 20 years of work CENTIS has become the main support of Nuclear Medicine in the country. With its metrological capabilities in the magnitude of radioactivity and its non-clinical and clinical research, it is increasingly part of the socio-economic life of the country and its capital. In this paper the main results of each stage are detailed in relation to the mission of the center and a technical assessment is made regarding the actions taken to favor their target sectors: health and biomedical research. Periods of five years in favor of centuries.

Uso de cannabis y desarrollo de esquizofrenia: ¿cuáles son los vínculos? / Cannabis use and schizophrenia development: which are the links?

El cannabis es la droga más utilizada por personas con esquizofrenia. Sin embargo, la relación entre el consumo de cannabis y el desarrollo de esquizofrenia aún no ha sido completamente aclarada. Esta comunicación corta pretende destacar algunos vínculos estudiados entre el consumo de cannabis y el desarrollo de esquizofrenia. Los autores resumen algunos de los principales hallazgos de varias investigaciones realizadas sobre este tema, incluyendo estudios sobre la sustancia blanca del cerebro, el circuito de recompensa cerebral, la fisiopatología del hipocampo, el volumen cerebral, la edad de inicio de la psicosis, las características del uso de cannabis y los rasgos de personalidad, la genética, la neuroquímica, así como la respuesta al estrés. Los autores concuerdan con la noción de que hay dos hipótesis más convincentes sobre el vínculo entre el cannabis y la esquizofrenia: 1. Cannabis como causa contribuyente y, 2. Vulnerabilidad compartida. Los autores hacen hincapié en que el consumo de cannabis no provoca por sí mismo un trastorno psicótico; sin embargo, tanto el uso temprano como el uso intensivo del mismo son más probables en individuos con una vulnerabilidad a la psicosis. El uso del cannabis es posiblemente el factor de riesgo medioambiental más modificable de la esquizofrenia, por lo que es necesaria una advertencia de salud pública de que el consumo de cannabis puede aumentar el riesgo de trastornos psicóticos.

Cannabis is the drug most often used by persons with schizophrenia. However, the relationship between cannabis use and schizophrenia development has not yet been fully clarified. This short communication aims to highlight some studied links between cannabis use and schizophrenia development. The authors summarize some of the main findings of several investigations done on this topic, including studies on brain white matter, brain reward circuit, hippocampal pathophysiology, brain volume, age of psychosis onset, and characteristics of cannabis use, personality traits, genetics, neurochemistry, and stress response. The authors agree with the notion that there are two most convincing hypotheses regarding the link between cannabis and schizophrenia: 1. Cannabis as a contributing cause and, 2. Shared vulnerability. The authors stress that cannabis use does not in itself cause a psychotic disorder; however, both early use and heavy use of it are more likely in individuals with a vulnerability to psychosis. The use of cannabis is arguably the most modifiable environmental risk factor for schizophrenia, so it is necessary to ensure a public health warning that cannabis use can increase the risk of psychotic disorders.

Tuberculosis intestinal perforada y embarazo / Perforated intestinal tuberculosis and pregnancy

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: el abdomen representa el sexto lugar más frecuente de manifestación extrapulmonar de la tuberculosis; esta enfermedad puede afectar cualquier parte del tubo gastrointestinal, peritoneo y sistema hepatobiliar. OBJETIVO: reportar una variante adicional de tuberculosis intestinal, enfermedad reconocida como "la gran simuladora", relacionada con el embarazo. CASO CLÍNICO: paciente primigesta de 17 años de edad, sin antecedentes de importancia para el padecimiento actual, asintomática, sin afectación inmunológica, con tuberculosis intestinal y múltiples perforaciones y hallazgos transcesárea. El diagnóstico se estableció luego de efectuar estudios microbiológicos e histopatológicos. La evolución de la madre y el recién nacido fue satisfactoria y ambos continuaron con tratamiento antifímico. CONCLUSIÓN: pese a los grandes avances en medicina, la tuberculosis sigue siendo un grave problema de salud pública con una alta tasa de morbilidad y mortalidad. El hallazgo transcesárea, la fuerte sospecha de tuberculosis y el tratamiento oportuno limitaron la morbilidad y mortalidad de nuestra paciente.

Abstract BACKGROUND: The abdominal cavity its considerate the 6th most frequent extrapulmonary presentation of tuberculosis. This disease can affect other anatomy sites of gastrointestinal tract, peritoneum and hepatobiliary system. OBJECTIVE: To report an infrequent variant of intestinal tuberculosis, an illness known as the "great simulator", related to pregnancy. CLINICAL CASE: a 17-year-old primigravidum patient without previous history, asymptomatic, non-immunological involvement, with intestinal tuberculosis and multiple perforations, whose were identified during cesarean section. The diagnosis was established after of microbiological and histopathological studies. The evolution of the mother and the newborn were satisfactory and continued with antiphimic treatment. CONCLUSION: Despite great advances in medicine, tuberculosis remains a serious public health problem with a high rate of morbimorbidity. The transcesarean finding, the strong suspicion of tuberculosis and early treatment limited the morbimorbidity of our patient.

Caracterización de la paciente obstétrica críticamente enferma, experiencia de la maternidad "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", Maracaibo, Venezuela: 2011 - 2014 / Characterization of the critically ill obstetric patient, experience of maternity "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", Maracaibo, Venezuela: 2011 - 2014

OBJETIVO: Caracterizar las pacientes obstétricas críticamente enfermas asistidas en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Obstétricos (UCIO) de la Maternidad "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza" de Maracaibo, estado Zulia, durante 2011-2014. MÉTODOS: Investigación de tipo descriptiva con diseño retrospectivo, la cual incluyó una muestra por cuotas de todas las embarazadas críticamente enfermas que ingresaron en la UCIO; se analizaron las características asociadas a la morbilidad materna extrema y la mortalidad asociada a la misma. RESULTADOS: En el periodo estudiado, 0,74% (548/73.588) de todos los ingresos obstétricos ingresaron a la UCIO, principalmente debido a trastornos hipertensivos (53%), infecciones (23,27%) o hemorragias (13,79%). Entre los factores de riesgo encontrados destacan: edad entre 19-35 años (58,19%), procedencia rural (59,05%), bajos niveles educativos (>80% escolaridad menor a secundaria), concubinas (60,78%), control prenatal ausente o inadecuado (74,57%), multiparidad (37,93%), embarazo pretérminos (65,95%), realización de cesárea segmentaria (62,50%), presencia de enfermedad de la gestación (59,05%) e ingreso durante el puerperio (80,17%). Se encontró que la estancia hospitalaria en la UCIO fue corta (5,91±8,17 días), siendo las disfunciones más frecuentes la cardiovascular (50,43%), hematológica (41,37%) o respiratoria (31,46%). Se registraron 38 muertes maternas entre todas las pacientes con morbilidad materna extrema ingresadas a la UCIO, con una tasa de letalidad de 6,93%. CONCLUSIÓN: Si bien las pacientes obstétricas críticamente enfermas representan menos del 1% de todos los ingresos efectuados, contribuyeron con más de la mitad de la mortalidad materna registrada en la institución.

AIM: To characterize the critically ill obstetrical patients assisted in the Obstetric Intensive Care Unit (OICU) at the maternity "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza" in Maracaibo, Zulia state, Venezuela, during 2011-2014. METHODS: A descriptive research with retrospective design was developed, which included a quota sample of all critically ill pregnant women who joined the OICU; the characteristics associated with extreme maternal morbidity and mortality associated with it were analyzed. RESULTS: In the study period, 0.74% (548/73,588) of all obstetric patients was admitted to the OICU, mainly due to hypertensive disorders (53%), infections (23.27%) or bleeding (13.79%). Among the risk factors found are: age between 19-35 years (58.19%), rural origin (59.05%), low educational levels (>80% lower secondary), concubines (60.78%), absent or inadequate prenatal care (74.57%), multiparity (37.93%), preterm pregnancy (65.95%), performing segmental cesarean section (62.50%), presence of gestation illness (59.05%) and income during the postpartum period (80.17%). It was found that the hospital stay in OICU was short (5.91±8.17 days); the most frequent dysfunctions were: cardiovascular (50.43%), hematological (41.37%) or respiratory (31.46%). Were recorded 38 maternal deaths among all patients with extreme maternal morbidity admitted to OICU, with a fatality rate of 6.93%. CONCLUSION: Although critically ill obstetric patients represent less than 1% of all obstetrics patients admitted made contributed more than half of maternal deaths recorded in the institution.

Prevalencia del síndrome de HELLP en gestantes críticas: Maternidad "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", Maracaibo, Venezuela / Prevalence of HELLP syndrome in critical pregnant women: Maternity "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", Maracaibo, Venezuela

OBJETIVO: Determinar la prevalencia de síndrome de HELLP (SH) en gestantes críticamente enfermas ingresadas a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Obstétricos (UCIO) de la Maternidad "Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", de Maracaibo, estado Zulia, Venezuela, periodo 2011 a 2015. MÉTODOS: Investigación descriptiva con diseño retrospectivo, donde se revisaron las historias clínicas de gestantes ingresadas a la UCIO con diagnóstico de SH, analizándo sus características clínicas y epidemiológicas. RESULTADOS: Hubo una prevalencia del 13,60% (111/816), tasa de letalidad de 1,23% (10/8l6) y tasa de mortalidad materna específica de 15,08/100.000 nacidos vivos. Las características clínicas más prevalentes fueron: edad 25,8 ± 6,9 años, estancia en UCIO 4,76 ± 4,46 días, embarazos pretérminos 69,37%, antecedentes de abortos 24,32%, primíparas 42,34%, control prenatal ausente o inadecuado, embarazos simples 95,5%, preeclámpticas 67,57%, antecedentes de condiciones preexistentes 47,75%, sin hábitos como tabaco o alcohol 81,99%, ingresaron embarazadas 89,19% y cesárea 74,77%. Se diagnosticaron mayoritariamente casos de SH incompleto (56,76%), siendo las complicaciones más observadas la disfunción hematológica (98,2%), disfunción hepática (91,9%) y disfunción renal (70,3%). CONCLUSIÓN: La prevalencia de SH resultó más elevada que lo reportada en estudios nacionales e internacionales, presentando características clínicas y epidemiológicas que deben ser consideradas para su prevención y diagnóstico precoz.

AIMS: To determinate the prevalence of HELLP syndrome (HS) in critical pregnant women admitted to the Obstetrics Intensive Care Unit (OICU) of the "Maternidad Dr. Armando Castillo Plaza", in Maracaibo, Zulia state, Venezuela, during 2011 to 2015. METHODS: A descriptive research with retrospective design was due, in which were reviewed the clinical files of all pregnant admit into the OICU complicated with HS, was analyzed establish the clinical and epidemiological features. RESULTS: We found a prevalence of 13.60% (111/816), fatality rate of 1.23% (10/816) and specific maternal mortality rate of 15.08/100,000 live births. The most prevalent clinical characteristics were: age 25.8 ± 6.9 years, stay in UCIO 4.76 ± 4.46 days, pre-terms pregnancies (69.37%), history of abortions (24.32%), primiparous (42.34%), absent or inadequate prenatal care, singleton pregnancies (95.50%), preeclampsia (67.57%), history of pre-existing conditions (47.75%), without habits such as tobacco or alcohol (81.99%), admitted pregnant (89.19%) and cesarean section (74.77%). Also, were mainly diagnosed cases of incomplete HS (56.76%); the most observed com-plications were hematologic dysfunction (98.2%), liver dysfunction (91.9%) and renal dysfunction (70.3%). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of HELLP syndrome was higher than reported in national and international studies, presenting clinical and epidemiological characteristics that should be considered for prevention and early diagnosis.

Identificación molecular de Candida lusitaniae en infección de tracto respiratorio inferior / Molecular identification of Candida lusitaniae in lower respiratory tract infection

Candida lusitaniae es una levadura que ha sido descrita como un patógeno nosocomial emergente de baja frecuencia en infecciones profundas. La identificación oportuna de C. lusitaniae es importante porque puede desarrollar resistencia in vivo a la amfotericina B durante la terapia. Reportamos el aislamiento de C. lusitaniae como agente etiológico de infección de tracto respiratorio inferior en un paciente masculino. Los cultivos de orina y esputo fueron negativos para bacterias y positivos para esta levadura. Los aislamientos fueron identificados por métodos fenotípicos de rutina y confirmados por secuenciación y polimorfismos de longitud de fragmentos de restricción y PCR de la región espaciadora interna del DNA ribosómico.

The yeast Candida lusitaniae has been described as an emerging low frequency nosocomial pathogen in deep infections. Early identification of C. lusitaniae is important because it can readily develop in vivo resistance to amphotericin B during treatment. We report the isolation of C. lusitaniae as etiologic agent of a lower respiratory tract infection in a male patient. Urine and sputum cultures were negative for bacteria and positive for yeast. Isolates were identified by routine phenotypic methods and confirmed by ribosomal DNA internal spacer region restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR and sequencing.

Pielonefritis xantogranulomatosa: estudio retrospectivo de 8 casos / Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis: a retrospective study of 8 cases

Hemos revisado las características clínicas, radiológicas y patológicas de la pielonefritis xan-togranulomatosa junto con la evolución de la enfermedad y una revisión bibliográfica de la misma. Se realiza un estudio retrospectivo en nuestro centro, obteniendo una muestra de 8 casos confirmados por anatomía patológica a través de los que describimos las características clínicas y diagnósticas. De los 8 casos (1 varón y 7 mujeres), 6 de ellos debutaron como cólico renal complicado, 1 se presentó con astenia y pérdida de peso y el otro caso fue un hallazgo incidental. El diagnóstico inicial se realizó mediante ecografía en 2 casos y TC en todos los casos, siendo confirmados todos mediante estudio histopatológico.

We have revised the clinical, radiological and pathological characteristics of Xanthogranuloma-tous pyelonephritis (XGP), together with the evolution of the disease and a literature review of the same. A retrospective study was performed at our center, obtaining a sample of 8 pathologically confirmed cases which we used to describe the clinical and diagnostic features. Of the 8 cases (1 male and 7 female), 6 of them presented complicated renal colic, one presented asthenia and weight loss and the other case was an incidental finding. The initial diagnosis was achieved with ultrasonography in 2 of the cases and with CT in all of the cases, all being confirmed by a histopathological study.

Signo de rueda de carreta en los nódulos tiroídeos: ¿Sinónimo de benignidad? / The spoke wheel sign in thyroid nodules: synonym of benignity?

Thyroid nodular disease is a highly prevalent condition. Most nodules are asymptomatic and only identifiable on images. We have established a relationship between the particular spoke wheel pattern of thyroid masses and a benign histology. A review of our institutional database of thyroid punctured under ultrasound guidance, histologically studied between 2003 and 2011, was performed. Node selection criteria included: mixed /solid, round /oval, surrounded by a halo, with radial structures converging toward a central point, with or without calcifications, and with peripheral vessels along with others oriented toward the center of the thyroid masses. Seventy-nine (2.5 percent) out of 3.204 punctured masses exhibited this sign. Average size: 28.3 mm. Fifty-eight masses were benign colloid nodules as diagnosed on FNA biopsy. Remaining masses corresponded to Lesion Follicular (4 benign, surgically treated; 7 under follow-up, stable; 10 with no information). Despite being a rare radiologic finding, the spoke wheel sign may be another element contributing to ultrasonographic discrimination between benignity and malignancy, especially in large thyroid masses.

La patología nodular tiroidea es altamente prevalente. La mayoría de los nódulos son asintomáticos y solo identificados en imágenes. Hemos establecido la relación entre una morfología especial del nódulo en rueda de carreta e histología benigna. Se realizó una revisión de la base de datos de nódulos puncionados bajo US y estudiados histológicamente entre 2003 y 2011. Criterios de selección: nódulos mixtos/sólidos, redondos/ovales, rodeados por un halo, presentando estructuras convergentes hacia un punto central con o sin calcificaciones y vasos periféricos con otros orientados hacia el centro del nódulo. De 3.204 nódulos puncionados 79 (2,5 por ciento) presentaron el signo. Tamaño promedio: 28,3 mm. Cincuenta y ocho resultaron nódulos coloideos benignos en PAAF. El resto fueron informados como lesiones foliculares (4 operados benignos, 7 en seguimiento y estables, 10 sin información). Este signo es poco frecuente, pero puede ser un elemento más que colabore en la discriminación ecográfica de benignidad/malignidad, especialmente en nódulos tiroideos de gran tamaño.

Neutralization of pharmacological and toxic activities of Bothrops jararacussu snake venom and isolated myotoxins by Serjania erecta methanolic extract and its fractions

Most of the snakebites recorded in Brazil are caused by the Bothrops genus. Given that the local tissue damage caused by this genus cannot be treated by antivenom therapy, numerous studies are focusing on supplementary alternatives, such as the use of medicinal plants. Serjania erecta has already demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and healing properties. In the current study, the aerial parts of S. erecta were extracted with methanol, then submitted to chromatographic fractionation on a Sephadex LH20 column and eluted with methanol, which resulted in four main fractions. The crude extract and fractions neutralized the toxic activities of Bothrops jararacussu snake venom and isolated myotoxins (BthTX-I and II). Results showed that phospholipase A2, fibrinogenolytic, myotoxic and hemorrhagic activities were inhibited by the extract. Moreover, the myotoxic and edematous activities induced by BthTX-I, and phospholipase A2 activity induced by BthTX-II, were inhibited by the extract of S. erecta and its fraction. The clotting time on bovine plasma was significantly prolonged by the inhibitory action of fractions SF3 and SF4. This extract is a promising source of natural inhibitors, such as flavonoids and tannins, which act by forming complexes with metal ions and proteins, inhibiting the action of serineproteases, metalloproteases and phospholipases A2.

Dupliaciones entéricas en pacientes pediátricos / Enteric duplications in pediatric patients

Determinar la incidencia de duplicaciones del Tubo Digestivo en niños, en un período de 10 años. Estudio descriptivo, transversal, retrospectivo. Revisión de historias clínicas y biopsias en el Hospital de Niños JM de Los Ríos, desde 1998 a 2008. Variables: edad, sexo, presentación clínica, órgano duplicado, estudio diagnóstico y tratamiento. Se reportarón 11 pacientes con quistes de duplicación, 28% eran recién nacidos, 73% del sexo femenino. Predominó el dolor abdominal como síntoma de presentación en 28%. Se realizó diagnóstico prenatal en 18%. El órgano duplicado predominante fue intestino delgado 55%. Se realizó ecografía abdominal a 7 pacientes y de éstos en un 71% se diagnosticó duplicación intestinal antes de la cirugía. Se realizó exploración a cielo abierto en todos los casos y en 82% se realizó resección total del quiste. Las duplicaciones del tubo digestivo son poco frecuentes. El diagnóstico prenatal permite corregir el defecto en edades tempranas y disminuir su morbilidad. La ecografía es un método útil para el diagnóstico. La resección total de la duplicación es el tratamiento ideal...

Determining the incidence of duplications of digestive tube in children, during a 10-year term. Retrospective cross-sectioned descriptive study. Review of clinical records and biopsies in Hospital de Niños JM de Los Ríos, between 1998 and 2008. Variables: age, sex, clinical presentation, duplicated organ, study, diagnosis, and treatment. 11 patients were reported with duplication cysts: 28% was just-born, 73% was female. Abdominal pain prevailed as the presentation symptom in 28% of cases. Prenatal diagnosis was performed in 18% of cases. Small intestine was the prevailing duplicated organ: 55% of cases. Abdominal echography was performed in 7 patients, and out of which 71% was diagnosed with intestine duplication before surgery. Open sky exploration was carried out in all cases and total resection of cyst was performed in 82% of all cases. Duplications of the digestive tube uncommon. Prenatal diagnosis allows for correcting such defect in early age, thus reducing morbidity. Echography is a diagnosis helpful method. The ideal treatment for duplication is total resection...

Variabilidad interinstitucional del tamiz neonatal en México / Institutional variability of neonatal screening in Mexico

Introducción. Actualmente, los avances tecnológicos han hecho factible el tamiz neonatal (TN) para un número cada vez mayor de enfermedades. En México, la normatividad vigente se ha mantenido sin cambios desde 1988, contemplando únicamente la detección del hipotiroidismo congénito; sin embargo, el TN ha evolucionado de manera diferenciada en el sector salud. Objetivo: conocer la variabilidad del número de enfermedades detectadas mediante el TN y las metodologías utilizadas para su realización en las distintas instituciones del sistema de salud mexicano. Métodos. Se realizaron entrevistas telefónicas con los coordinadores estatales del Programa de TN. Resultados. Algunas instituciones realizan el tamiz para una enfermedad, mientras que otras lo practican hasta para 60 enfermedades. Las metodologías empleadas van de 1 a 5. Conclusión. Existe gran variabilidad en el número de enfermedades que se tamizan, así como en las metodologías empleadas; dicha variabilidad depende del lugar del nacimiento y la adscripción laboral de los padres. La variabilidad conduce a inequidad en la oportunidad de que a los recién nacidos se les detecten enfermedades congénitas graves, que tienen un alto potencial generador de discapacidad, por lo que es importante que se establezcan políticas de salud equitativas, justas y modernas sobre el TN en México.

Introduction. Recently, the development of technology has reached the availability of neonatal screening (NS) for an increasing number of diseases. In Mexico, the actual official regulation makes obligatory the detection of only one disease -hypothyroidism. Despite this, the regulation has remained without changes since 1988. Panels involved in NS have evolved differently in the Mexican health sector. We undertook this study to determine the variability of the NS panels and the number of detected diseases as well as the diverse methodologies used for their determination in the different institutions of the Mexican health system. Methods. Telephone interviews were made to the directors of the NS program for each federal entity and institution. Results. We found that some institutions only screen for one disease, whereas others screen for up to 60 diseases. Methodology variation was 1 to 5. Conclusions. There is great variability in the number of diseases detected in newborns as well as in the methodologies used. Such inconsistency depends on the place of birth and the parents' employment for insurance affiliation. This difference leads to unequal opportunities for the detection of severe inherited diseases with high potential of impaired development. It is important to establish equal, fair and modern health policies in regard to NS in Mexico.

Enfermedad de Hansen: a propósito de un caso / Hansen`s disease: a purpose of a case

La lepra o enfermedad de Hansen es una enfermedad infecto contagiosa producida por el bacilo Mycobacterium leprae. Presenta dos tipos principales: la lepra tuberculoide, que produce grandes manchas hiperestésicas posteriormente anestésicas, y la lepra lepromatosa, que origina grandes nódulos en la piel. El tratamiento, hoy en día, varía entre seis meses y dos años, y se basa en la administración de sulfonas. Presentamos caso de masculino de 25 años de edad ingresado en el servicio de Medicina Interna del Hospital Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz con el diagnóstico de lepra lepromatosa confirmado posterior a reporte de biopsia de piel.