Prognostic factors for metastasis in cutaneous melanoma

Abstract: Background: Melanoma is a malignant neoplasia that shows high mortality when diagnosed in advanced stages. Early identification of high-risk patients for the development of melanoma metastases is the main strategy to reduce mortality. Objective: To assess the influence of eight epidemiological and histopathologic features on the development of metastases in patients diagnosed with primary cutaneous melanoma. Methods: Our historical cohort comprised patients with invasive primary cutaneous melanoma seen between 1995 and 2012 at a public university hospital and a private oncologic surgery institution in Southeastern Brazil. The following variables were analyzed: gender, age, family history of melanoma, site of the primary tumor, clinical and histologic subtype, Breslow thickness, histologic ulceration and the mitotic index. Kaplan-Meier univariate test and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis were used to assess factors associated with disease-free survival. Results: Five hundred and fourteen patients were enrolled. The univariate analysis identified the following significant risk factors: gender, age, site of the tumor, clinical and histologic subtype, Breslow thickness, histologic ulceration and mitotic index. Multivariate analysis included 244 patients and detected four significant prognostic factors: male gender, nodular clinical and histologic subtype, Breslow thickness > 4mm, and histologic ulceration. The mitotic index was not included in this analysis. Study limitations: Small number of patients in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: The following prognostic factors to the development of melanoma metastasis were identified in the study: male gender, nodular histologic subtype, Breslow thickness > 4mm and ulceration.

A prospective study of patients with large congenital melanocytic nevi and the risk of melanoma

Abstract: Background: Large congenital melanocytic nevus (LCMN) is considered a risk factor for melanoma, although the magnitude of this risk is controversial. Objective: To evaluate the risk of melanoma development in patients with LCMN seen at a dermatology referral center in Brazil during a twelve-year period. To the best of our knowledge, there are no published similar studies on large congenital melanocytic nevus in South America. Methods: Our prospective cohort included only patients with congenital nevi ≥20cm. The cumulative risk of developing melanoma and the standardized morbidity ratio were calculated for patients followed up prospectively for at least 1 month. Results: Sixty-three patients were enrolled in this study. One patient who developed melanoma prior to enrollment was excluded, and five were eliminated because of insufficient follow-up time. Mean follow-up for the remaining 57 patients was 5.5 years (median 5.2 years). Median age of entry into the study was 2.6 years. Most patients (75.4%) underwent only clinical observation. Melanomas occurred in 2 (3.5%) patients. Five-year cumulative risk for melanoma was 4.8% (95% CI: 1.9-11.5%). Standardized morbidity ratio was 1584 (95% CI: 266-5232, p<0.001). Study limitations: The small sample size reduces the accuracy of risk estimates. Conclusions: This study analyzed prospectively for the first time data from South America demonstrating that patients with LCMN have a higher risk of developing melanoma than the general population (p<0.001).

Patch-test results in children and adolescents: systematic review of a 15-year period

Abstract The number of studies on patch-test results in children and adolescents has gradually increased in recent years, thus stimulating reviews. This paper is a systematic review of a 15-year period devoted to studying the issue. Variations pertaining to the number and age groups of tested children and/or adolescents, the number of subjects with atopy/atopic dermatitis history, the quantity, type and concentrations of the tested substances, the test technique and type of data regarding clinical relevance, must all be considered in evaluating these studies, as they make it harder to formulate conclusions. The most common allergens in children were nickel, thimerosal, cobalt, fragrance, lanolin and neomycin. In adolescents, they were nickel, thimerosal, cobalt, fragrance, potassium dichromate, and Myroxylon pereirae. Knowledge of this matter aids health professionals in planning preventive programs aimed at improving children's quality of life and ensuring that their future prospects are not undermined.

Cardiovascular risk factors and increased carotid intima-media thickness in young patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency

ABSTRACT Objective Increased arterial intima-media thickness has been observed in adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD). CAH has also been associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. The aim of the present study was to compare youths with CAH with healthy, normal-weight individuals, evaluating carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and indicative factors of cardiovascular risk to seek for abnormalities in the CAH group. Subjects and methods Clinical, biochemical, and ultrasonographic evaluations, according to published criteria, were performed in 113 subjects (5 to 20 years old): 40 patients with 21-OHD and 73 healthy individuals matched for gender, pubertal status, and age. Results Most CAH patients were female (80%), salt-losers (72.5%), and pubescent (80%); 10 (25%) patients were overweight. An increase in CIMT was observed both on the right (p = 0.0240) and left (p = 0.0003) sides in 38 CAH patients compared with the healthy individuals. The body mass index, BMI/age Z score, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were higher in patients compared with controls (p < 0.000 and p = 0.0219, respectively). Conclusions Findings of increased CIMT, BMI, and SBP in young patients with 21-OHD indicate the need for early identification and intervention regarding cardiovascular risk. Validating these findings might result in improved therapeutic approaches for children with 21-OHD in the future. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2015;59(6):541-7.

Patch test results in children and adolescents. Study from the Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte Dermatology Clinic, Brazil, from 2003 to 2010

AbstractBACKGROUND:Patch testing is an efficient method to identify the allergen responsible for allergic contact dermatitis.OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the results of patch tests in children and adolescents comparing these two age groups' results.METHODS:Cross-sectional study to assess patch test results of 125 children and adolescents aged 1-19 years, with suspected allergic contact dermatitis, in a dermatology clinic in Brazil. Two Brazilian standardized series were used.RESULTS:Seventy four (59.2%) patients had "at least one positive reaction" to the patch test. Among these positive tests, 77.0% were deemed relevant. The most frequent allergens were nickel (36.8%), thimerosal (18.4%), tosylamide formaldehyde resin (6.8%), neomycin (6.4%), cobalt (4.0%) and fragrance mix I (4.0%). The most frequent positive tests came from adolescents (p=0.0014) and females (p=0.0002). There was no relevant statistical difference concerning contact sensitizations among patients with or without atopic history. However, there were significant differences regarding sensitization to nickel (p=0.029) and thimerosal (p=0.042) between the two age groups under study, while adolescents were the most affected.CONCLUSION:Nickel and fragrances were the only positive (and relevant) allergens in children. Nickel and tosylamide formaldehyde resin were the most frequent and relevant allergens among adolescents.

Reflexões sobre a suplementação de ferro na população infantil / Reflections on iron supplementation in children

Este estudo tem como objetivo aprimorar conhecimentos e melhorar a prática diária na assistência à saúde da criança. Buscou-se utilizar referências a partir do ano de 1987,conseguidas em bibliotecas virtuais e acervo pessoal de Pediatria. Os textos foram submetidosà leitura exploratória, interpretativa e seletiva. Este estudo busca reflexão sobre a consciência e o comportamento de pais e cuidadores, tentando compreender os problemas advindos da não suplementação ou da suplementação inadequada de ferro, com o intuito de orientar sobre a importância da suplementação de ferro na primeira infância.Também adverte sobre a necessidade de mais estudos sobre os benefícios e malefícios pouco discutidos e difundidos advindos da suplementação de ferro na dieta na infância.

This study aims to improve the knowledge and daily practice in child health care. We attempted to use references starting in 1987, achieved in virtual libraries and personal collections in Pediatrics. The texts were submitted to an exploratory, interpretive, and selective reading. This study aims to reflect on the consciousness and behavior of parents and caregivers, trying to understand the problems resulting from no supplementation orinadequate iron supplementation in order to advise on the importance of iron supplementation in early childhood. In addition, it warns about the need for more studies on the benefits and harms arising from iron supplementation in the childhood diet, which are little discussed and disseminated.

Comorbidities and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with psoriasis

BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease and its pathogenesis involves an interaction between genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Recent studies have suggested that the chronic inflammatory nature of psoriasis may predispose to an association with other inflammatory diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. OBJECTIVES: To describe the demographic, clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory characteristics of a sample of psoriasis patients; to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities in this group of patients; and to identify the cardiovascular risk profile using the Framingham risk score. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving the assessment of 190 patients. Participants underwent history and physical examination. They also completed a specific questionnaire about epidemiological data, past medical history, and comorbidities. The cardiovascular risk profile was calculated using the Framingham risk score. RESULTS: Patients' mean age was 51.5 ± 14 years, and the predominant clinical presentation was plaque psoriasis (78.4%). We found an increased prevalence of systemic hypertension, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. Increased waist circumference was also found in addition to a considerable prevalence of depression, smoking, and regular alcohol intake. Patients' cardiovascular risk was high according to the Framingham risk score, and 47.2% of patients had moderate or high risk of fatal and non-fatal coronary events in 10 years. CONCLUSIONS: Patients had high prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities, and high cardiovascular risk according to the Framingham risk score. Further epidemiological studies are needed in Brazil for validation of our results. .

Final height in congenital adrenal hyperplasia: the dilemma of hypercortisolism versus hyperandrogenism / Altura final na hiperplasia suprarrenal congênita: o dilema do hipercortisolismo versus hiperandrogenismo

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to identify factors that might interfere with reaching the final height in patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Thirty-one patients with classical 21-OHD who reached their FH in our Institution were eva­luated in order to compare the Z score for final height (FHZ) with: (1) the target height, (2) the standard height for the population, and (3) the hydrocortisone treatment schedule. RESULTS: The FHZ of -2.13 ± 1.11 had a significant negative correlation with the hydrocortisone doses used throughout the period of study. Patients who reached FH within the normal population range were those who received lower doses of hydrocortisone, as compared to those whose FH remained below -2 SDS. CONCLUSION: We conclude that careful treatment adjustments have a major influence on growth of children with CAH, and that the dose range for hydrocortisone replacement that does not lead to side effects is relatively narrow. The better height outcome was achieved in 21-OHD patients who received lower doses of hydrocortisone.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do estudo foi a identificação de fatores que podem interferir na aquisição de altura final de pacientes com a deficiência de 21-hidroxilase (21OHD). SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: A altura final (escore Z: FHZ) de 31 pacientes com a forma clássica da 21OHD, acompanhados em nossa instituição, foi comparada com: (1) a altura alvo, (2) o padrão de referência para a população, e (3) a dose de hidrocortisona durante o acompanhamento. RESULTADOS: Observou-se correlação negativa significativa entre o FHZ de -2,13 ± 1,11 e as doses de hidrocortisona utilizadas durante o período de estudo. Os pacientes que atingiram altura final dentro do padrão de referência para a população usaram doses mais baixas de hidrocortisona quando comparados àqueles que permaneceram abaixo de -2 DP. CONCLUSÃO: O cuidado nos ajustes das doses durante o tratamento da 21OHD tem grande influência sobre o crescimento das crianças. A faixa de variação da dose de reposição da hidrocortisona que não causa efeitos colaterais é relativamente estreita. O melhor resultado estatural foi observado nos pacientes com 21OHD tratados com doses mais baixas de hidrocortisona.

Infecções de sítio cirúrgico na criança e no adolescente / Surgery infections in children and adolescents

Infecções de sítio cirúrgico (ISC) representam uma das principais infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde e importante complicação na prática cirúrgica. Em Pediatria, as ISC representam 17% de todas as infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde, mas a magnitude do problema precisa ser mais bem dimensionada. As ISC podem ser divididas em três categorias: incisional superficial, incisional profunda e órgãos ou cavidades. As ISC são diagnosticadas segundo os critérios do Centers for Disease Control and Prevention e, no Brasil, do Ministério da Saúde. A vigilância dessas infecções deve ser feita durante a internação e após a alta, pois significativo número se manifesta fora do hospital. Bactérias constituem a principal causa da infecção e são representadas principalmente pelos estafilococos. Para se estabelecer programa de prevenção e controle dessas infecções é importante conhecer os fatores de risco, tais como: idade, classificaçãoAmerican Society of Anesthesiology (ASA), tempo de internação préoperatório, uso inadequado de antibioticoprofilaxia, duração da cirurgia, potencial de contaminação da ferida cirúrgica, entre outros. As ISC podem ser passíveis de prevenção em mais de 60%, desde que medidas adequadas sejam instituídas. A adesão aos guidelines para prevenção de infecções cirúrgicas pode reduzir significativamente a sua incidência e custos relacionados...

Surgery infections constitute an important complication in the surgery practice and one of the main infections demanding health care. In Pediatrics, surgery infections represent 17 % of all infections demanding to health care, but the problem magnitude needs to be better and further assessed. Such infections can be divided in three categories: surface incisional, deep incisional, and organs or cavities. The surgery infections are diagnosed according to criteria proposed by the Centers for Diagnose Control and Prevention and, in Brazil, by the Ministry of Health. Such infections must be monitor during hospital admission and after discharge, as a significant number of occurrences take place outside the hospital. Bacteria ? mostly staphylococcus ? are usually the main cause of infection. Establishing a prevention and control program for such infections demand a deep understanding of such factors or risk as: age, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification, preoperative hospital stay, inadequate use of antibiotics, surgery duration, potential of surgery injury conamination. Surgery infections can be prevented in over 60 % of the cases, provided that adequate measures are taken. Compliance with preventive guidelines for surgery infections can significantly reduce incidence and related costs...

The impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy on the survival of vertically HIV-infected children and adolescents in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients has reduced the number of acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related deaths worldwide. This study assessed the impact of HAART on the survival and death rates of vertically HIV-infected children and adolescents in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Data were obtained from a historic cohort of vertically HIV-infected children and adolescents aged zero-19 years old who were admitted from March 1989-December 2004 and were followed until June 2006. Patients who used HAART were included if they were treated for at least 12 weeks. Of 359 patients, 320 patients met the inclusion criteria. The overall mortality rate was 9.7% [31/320; 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.0-13%]. The median survival for the non-HAART and HAART groups was 31.5 and 55.9 months, respectively (log rank = 22.11, p < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, the statistically significant variables were HAART and the weight-for-age Z score < -2, with HAART constituting a protective factor [relative risk (RR): 0.13; CI 95%: 0.05-0.33] and malnutrition constituting a risk factor (RR: 3.44; CI 95%: 1.60-7.40) for death. The incidence of death was 5.1/100 person-years in the non-HAART group and 0.8/100 person-years in the HAART group (p < 0.0001).

Impacto da terapia antirretroviral combinada no crescimento e nas taxas de hospitalização de crianças infectadas pelo HIV / Impact of HAART on growth and hospitalization rates among HIV-infected children

OBJETIVO: Avaliar mudanças em parâmetros de crescimento e hospitalização em crianças infectadas pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (human immunodeficiency virus, HIV) em uso de terapia antirretroviral combinada. MÉTODOS: As crianças foram avaliadas durante os primeiros 3 anos de terapia. A resposta clínica foi avaliada a cada 24 semanas com base em escores z de peso/idade e altura/idade. Modelos de regressão linear foram utilizados para identificar preditores de resposta clínica. Dados relevantes relativos à hospitalização dos pacientes foram obtidos retrospectivamente mediante revisão dos prontuários clínicos. RESULTADOS: Um total de 196 crianças foram avaliadas. A média do escore z aumentou de -1,62 (±1,32) no início do estudo para -1,14 (±1,12) na semana 24. A média do escore z de altura/idade aumentou de -1,88 (±1,45) para -1,66 (±1,18). Foi observada associação entre maiores escores z no início do estudo e maiores aumentos nos escores z de peso/idade ao longo do tempo. Cargas virais mais baixas e escores de altura/idade mais altos também estiveram associados com maior recuperação do crescimento. Oitenta e cinco crianças (43,3 por cento) foram hospitalizadas. A maioria das internações esteve associada a causas infecciosas, sendo apenas dois casos de infecções oportunistas. CONCLUSÃO: A terapia combinada resultou em aumentos significativos nos escores z de peso/idade e altura/idade. A menor idade, o uso de inibidores de protease e a classificação clínica em estágios avançados estiveram associados a uma maior efetividade do tratamento. Além disso, o estudo demonstrou a eficácia da terapia para a redução das taxas de hospitalização, morte e incidência de infecções oportunistas entre crianças portadoras do HIV.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate HAART-associated changes in growth and hospitalization rates over time in a cohort of HIV-infected children. METHODS: Children starting HAART were assessed during the first 3 years of therapy. Clinical response was assessed every 24 weeks by z scores of weight-for-age and height-for-age. Linear regression models were used to detect predictors of clinical response. Pertinent information on hospitalizations was obtained retrospectively through review of medical records. RESULTS: A total of 196 children were assessed. Mean weight z score increased from -1.62 (±1.32) at baseline to -1.14 (±1.12) by week 24. Mean height z score increased from -1.88 (±1.45) at baseline to -1.66 (±1.18). Better z scores at baseline were associated with greater increases in weight z scores over time. Lower viral load and higher height z scores at baseline were also associated with improved height catch-up. Eighty-five children (43.3 percent) were hospitalized. Most hospitalizations were prompted by infectious disease, with only two due to opportunistic infections. CONCLUSION: HAART was associated with significant increases in weight and height z scores. Younger age, the use of protease inhibitors and advanced clinical disease were associated with better outcomes. The present study demonstrated the effectiveness of HAART in significantly reducing hospitalization, death, and incidence of opportunistic infections among HIV-infected children.

Pulmonary paracoccidoidomycosis: radiology and clinical-epidemiological evaluation / Paracoccidioidomicose pulmonar: radiologia e avaliação clínico-epidemiológica

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to compare respiratory signs and symptoms between patients with and without chest X-ray abnormalities in order to establish the meaning of radiographic findings in pulmonary PCM diagnosis. METHODS: The epidemiological, clinical and radiological lung findings of 44 patients with paracoccidiodomycosis (PCM) were evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups of 23 and 21 individuals according to the presence (group 1) or absence (group 2) of chest X-ray abnormalities, respectively, and their clinical data was analyzed with the aid of statistical tools. RESULTS: As a general rule, patients were rural workers, young adult males and smokers - group 1 and 2, respectively: males (91.3 percent and 66.7 percent); mean age (44.4 and 27.9 year-old); smoking (34.7 percent and 71.4 percent); acute/subacute presentation (38.1 percent and 21.7 percent); chronic presentation (61.9 percent and 78.3 percent). The most frequent respiratory manifestations were - group 1 and 2, respectively: cough (25 percent and 11.4 percent) and dyspnea (22.7 percent and 6.8 percent). No statistical difference was observed in pulmonary signs and symptoms between patients with or without radiographic abnormalities. The most frequent radiological finding was nodular (23.8 percent) or nodular-fibrous (19 percent), bilateral (90.5 percent) and diffuse infiltrates (85.7 percent). CONCLUSIONS: Absence of statistical difference in pulmonary signs and symptoms between these two groups of patients with PCM indicates clinical-radiological dissociation. A simplified classification of radiological lung PCM findings is suggested, based on correlation of these data and current literature review.

INTRODUÇÃO: Comparar sinais e sintomas respiratórios entre pacientes com e sem alterações à radiografia de tórax para se estabelecer o significado dos achados radiográficos no diagnóstico da paracoccidioidomicose pulmonar. MÉTODOS: Os achados epidemiológicos, clínicos e radiológicos de 44 pacientes com paracoccidioidomicose (PCM) foram avaliados. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos de 23 e 21 indivíduos de acordo com a presença (grupo 1) ou ausência (grupo 2) de anormalidades à radiografia de tórax, respectivamente, e seus dados clínicos foram analisados com auxílio de ferramentas estatísticas. RESULTADOS: Como regra geral, os pacientes eram trabalhadores rurais do sexo masculino, tabagistas e em idade adulta jovem - grupo 1 e 2, respectivamente: homens (91,3 por cento e 66,7 por cento); média de idade (44,4 e 27,9 anos); tabagismo (34,7 por cento e 71,4 por cento); forma aguda/subaguda (38,1 por cento e 21,7 por cento); forma crônica (61,9 por cento e 78,3 por cento). As manifestações respiratórias mais frequentes foram - grupo 1 e 2, respectivamente: tosse (25 por cento e 11,4 por cento) e dispnéia (22,7 por cento e 6,8 por cento). Nenhuma diferença estatística foi observada nos sinais e sintomas respiratórios entre pacientes com ou sem anormalidades radiográficas. Os achados radiológicos mais frequentes foram o padrão nodular (23,8 por cento) ou nodular-fibrótico (19 por cento), bilateral (90,5 por cento) e infiltrado difuso (85,7 por cento). CONCLUSÕES: A ausência de diferença estatística nos sinais e sintomas pulmonares entre estes dois grupos de pacientes com PCM sugere dissociação clínico-radiológica. Uma classificação simplificada dos achados radiológicos pulmonares da PCM é sugerida, com base na correlação destes dados e revisão da literatura atual.

Reflexões sobre a suplementação de ferro na população infantil / Refletions about iron supplementation in children

Este estudo tem como objetivo aprimorar conhecimentos e melhorar a prática diária na assistência à saúde da criança. Buscou-se utilizar referências a partir do ano de 1987,conseguidas em bibliotecas virtuais e acervo pessoal de Pediatria. Os textos foram submetidos à leitura exploratória, interpretativa e seletiva. O presente estudo busca a reflexão sobre a consciência e o comportamento de pais e cuidadores, tentando,assim, orientar sobre a importância da suplementação de ferro na primeira infância. As considerações finais insistem em compreender os problemas advindos da não suplementação ou da suplementação inadequada de ferro, visando a uma atitude reflexiva mais cautelosa e zelosa de pais e cuidadores sobre essa prática, também sobre a necessidade de mais estudos sobre os benefícios e malefícios pouco discutidos e difundidos advindos desta...

This study it has as objective to improve knowledge and to improve practical the daily inhealth care of the child. One searched to use references from the year of 1987, obtained invirtual libraries and personal collection of Pediatrics. The texts had been submitted to the Exploratory, interpretive and selective reading. The present study it searchs a reflectionon the conscience and the behavior of parents and caregivers, thus trying, to guide onthe importance of the suplementation of iron in first infancy. The final thoughts insist on understanding the problems resulting from or not supplementation of inadequate iron supplementation, aiming at a more cautious attitude reflective and caring for parent sand caregivers about this practice, also on the need for more studies on the benefits and disadvantages discussed and little derived from this broadcast...

Diagnóstico diferencial da telarca precoce: ainda um desafio / Differential diagnosis of premature thelarche: still a challenge

Objetivo: identificar as caracteristicas de meninas com telarca precoce isolada (TP) que teriam utilidade no diagnóstico diferencial com puberdade precoce central (PPC). Métodos: foram estudadas 45 meninas entre 12 meses e seis anos de idade com relato de crescimento de mamas isoladamente, sem qualquer outro sinal de puberdade, atendidas na Divisão de Endocrinologia Pediátrica do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Resultados: o início da telarca ocorreu antes de 24 meses de idade em 97,8 por cento delas. Não houve progresso para o quadro de puberdade durante acompanhamento me diano de 13 meses. O bservou-se variação clínico-laboratorial, tendo ocorrido aceleração transitória da velocidade de crescimento ou avanço da idade óssea em 15 por cento das meni nas, além de alterações ultra-sonográficas. Esses achados caracterizam um quadro intermediário entre TP e PPC nesse percentual. Obser vou-se, ainda, que 33 por cento das que tinham até anos de idade apresentaram níveis puberais de LH após estímulo, mas níveis de FSH muito mais elevados e não evoluíram clinicamente para puberdade. Elevação acentuada e predominante de FSH foi observada em 100 por cento da amostra após estímulo com GnRH , o que praticamente define o diagnósticode TP. Conclusões: o quadro laboratorial na TP apresenta variações, o que reforça a importância do acompanhamento clínico no diagnóstico diferencial com PPC . O teste com GnRH deve ser interpretado com cautela em idades até quatro anos. Elevaçãoo acentuada e predominante de FSH praticamente define o diagnóstico de TP.

A epilepsia e os transtornos mentais: a interface neuropsiquiátrica / Epilepsy and mental disorders: the neuropsychiatric interface

Os pacientes portadores de epilepsia têm, potencialmente, condições de desenvolver alterações de ordem cognitiva e/ou psíquicas, seja pela multiplicidade de possibilidades de desenvolvimento do foco irritativo cerebral ou proporcional à diversificação e funcionalidade dos grupamentos neuronais. O propósito do presente estudo é mostrar a importância da abordagem desses pacientes e seus transtornos fora do ictus epiléptico. Sabe-se que os transtornos mentais são mais comuns em epilépticos do que na população em geral, entretanto, esta correlação ainda é motivo de controvérsias. A diversidade de linhas de pesquisas tenta desvendar esta instigante relação de causa-efeito. Estudos revelam que essa vinculação se deve à inadequada avaliação de grupos-controle, isto é, falhas metodológicas ou, ainda, conseqüência dos mecanismos envolvidos com a própria doença: neuropatologia comum, predisposição genética, transtornos de desenvolvimento, efeitos epilépticos ictal e subictal, hipometabolismo, alterações de receptores sensitivos, alterações secundárias endocrinológicas, doenças psiquiátricas primárias, efeitos colaterais de drogas antiepilépticas e transtornos psicossociais. Outras linhas de pesquisas, contudo, ressaltam a importância de se focalizarem esses transtornos como depressão, ansiedade e psicoses e sua relação com a epilepsia nas fases pré-ictal, interictal e pós-ictal. Destacam também que a maior incidência desses transtornos ocorre em pacientes que têm focos de suas crises no lobo frontal, lobo temporal – sistema límbico. Estima-se que 30% a 70% dos pacientes epilépticos tenham algum déficit cognitivo ou alterações de humor e, em menor incidência, psicoses.

Patients suffering from epilepsy are prone to cognitive and/or psychical alterations, whether for their multiplicity opportunities for the development of irritative focus or it is proportional to the diverse functions neuronal groupings. The aim of the present study is to demonstrate the importance of assisting these patients and taking care of their disorders out of an epileptic ictus. It is known that mental disorders are more frequent in epileptic patients than in the general population, but there are still some voices of dissent about this correlation. Several different lines of research are striving to understand this instigating cause and effect relationship. Studies have revealed that this correlation results from an inadequate evaluation of control groups; that is, methodological shortcomings or, still, the consequence of some mechanisms inherent to the disease itself: common neuropathology, genetic predisposition, development disorders, subictal and ictal epilepti effects, hypometabolism, sensitive receptor alterations, secondary endocrinologic alterations, primary psychiatric diseases, side effects of antiepileptic drugs and psychosocial disorders. Other lines of research, however, highlight the importance of regard these disorders as depression, anxiety and psychoses and their relationship with the pre-ictal, interictal and post-ictal stages of epilepsy. They also point out that these disorders are more frequent in patients whose crises’ focal points are the frontal lobe, temporal lobe – limbic system. It is estimated that 30 to 70% of the epileptic patients have a cognitive deficit or humor alterations, and less frequently, psychoses.

Fatores de risco para o desmame entre usuárias de uma unidade básica de saúde de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil, entre 1980 e 2004 / Risk factors for weaning among users of a primary health care unit in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, from 1980 to 2004

O objetivo foi analisar comparativamente os fatores que interferiram na duração do aleitamento materno entre usuárias do Centro de Saúde São Marcos, Belo Horizonte, Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, em 1980, 1986, 1992, 1998 e 2004. Foram realizados cinco estudos longitudinais retrospectivos (coortes históricas), utilizando o mesmo questionário. Foram entrevistadas, no total, 790 mães de menores de 24 meses. A análise estatística foi feita, ano a ano, pelo método de Kaplan-Meier e modelo de Cox. Entre 1980 e 2004, as condições significativamente associadas ao risco de desmame foram: primiparidade, dificuldade para amamentar após o parto, conceito de tempo ideal de aleitamento materno menor que seis meses, início do aleitamento materno após a alta da maternidade, não reconhecimento das vantagens da amamentação para a criança e opinião paterna desfavorável, indiferente ou desconhecida sobre o aleitamento materno. Em quatro dos cinco estudos, ter tido dificuldade para amamentar (RR: 1,70-3,97) e considerar ideal amamentar por menos de seis meses (RR: 1,67-3,27) representaram maior risco de desmame. A duração mediana do aleitamento materno foi cinco meses em 1980 e 11 meses em 2004.

This study was a comparative analysis of factors affecting duration of breastfeeding among users of the São Marcos primary care clinic in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, in 1980, 1986, 1992, 1998, and 2004. Five retrospective longitudinal studies (historical cohorts) were performed with the same questionnaire, and 790 mothers of children less than 24 months of age were interviewed. The statistical analysis was conducted year-by-year using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox model. From 1980 to 2004, conditions significantly associated with risk of weaning were: primiparity; difficulty in postpartum breastfeeding; belief in ideal breastfeeding duration of less than six months; start of breastfeeding after discharge from the maternity hospital, non-recognition of the advantages of breastfeeding for the child; and unfavorable, unknown, or indifferent paternal opinion concerning breastfeeding. In four of the five studies, difficulty in breastfeeding (RR: 1.70-3.97) and belief in ideal breastfeeding duration of less than six months (RR: 1.67-3.27) were risk factors for weaning. Median duration of breastfeeding was five months in 1980 and 11 months in 2004.

Deficiência auditiva na toxoplasmose congênita detectada pela triagem neonatal / Hearing loss in congenital toxoplasmosis detected by newborn screening

A toxoplasmose congênita pode causar déficit neurossensorial em até 20 por cento dos casos e o tratamento no primeiro ano de vida melhora o prognóstico. No Brasil, desconhece-se o impacto da infecção na hipoacusia. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a audição de crianças com toxoplasmose congênita identificadas pela triagem neonatal. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo de crianças com toxoplasmose congênita identificadas pela triagem neonatal (IgM anti-T. gondii) em Belo Horizonte, durante 2003/2004. Realizada sorologia confirmatória (mãe/filho) e consideradas positivas as crianças apresentando IgM e/ou IgA nos primeiros seis meses ou IgG aos 12 meses de vida. Avaliações auditivas ao diagnóstico e após 12 meses incluíram Audiometria Comportamental, Emissões Otoacústicas, Imitanciometria, Audiometria de Tronco Encefálico. RESULTADOS: Dentre 30.808 crianças triadas (97 por cento dos nascidos vivos), 20 apresentavam toxoplasmose congênita, 15 (75 por cento) com infecção subclínica. Dezenove crianças realizaram avaliação auditiva. Quatro apresentaram déficit neurossensorial (21,1 por cento). Uma criança apresentou outros fatores de risco para hipoacusia; nas outras três, a toxoplasmose foi o único fator observado. Duas crianças, tratadas adequadamente com antiparasitários, apresentaram déficit auditivo, em desacordo com a literatura. CONCLUSÃO: Os achados sugerem que a toxoplasmose congênita, prevalente no Brasil, é um fator de risco para hipoacusia e o impacto dessa infecção nas perdas auditivas deve ser estudado.

Congenital toxoplasmosis may cause sensorineural deficit in up to 20 percent of the patients and proper treatment in the first year improves prognosis. In Brazil, this infection’s impact on hearing impairment is unknown. AIM: To evaluate hearing of newborns with congenital toxoplasmosis identified by the newborn screening service. METHOD: This prospective study analyzed children with congenital toxoplasmosis identified by newborn screening (IgM anti-T.gondii) in Belo Horizonte during 2003/2004. The presence of IgM and/or IgA in the first 6 months or IgG at 12 months-of age in serology was used as case definition. Hearing tests were carried out at the time of diagnosis and 12 months later, including behavioral audiometry, evoked otoacoustic emission and brainstem evoked responses audiometry. RESULTS: Among 30.808 screened children (97 percent of live births), 20 had congenital toxoplasmosis, 15 (75 percent) were asymptomatic at birth. Nineteen children were evaluated by hearing tests. Four had sensorineural impairment (21.1 percent). One child had other risk factors for hearing impairment; the other three had no other risk factors but toxoplasmosis. Two properly children treated still had hearing loss, in disagreement with current literature. CONCLUSION: Results suggest that congenital toxoplasmosis, common in Brazil, is a risk factor for hearing impairment and its impact on hearing loss deserves further studies.

Turner syndrome: searching for better outcomes

OBJECTIVES: To assess the results of growth hormone on the growth of girls with Turner Syndrome and identify relevant parameters to improve outcomes. METHODS: Growth velocity and final height were studied in a historical cohort of 41 girls, regularly followed up for hormone distribution at three referral centers. The influence of oxandrolone and of estrogens on the final height was analyzed. The girls (initial chronological age=8.9±3.4years; initial bone age=7.0±3.1years) used 0.19 mg/kg/week of growth hormone for 4.0 ± 2.0 years. RESULTS: In the first year, growth velocity increased by 71.5 percent in 41 girls and 103.4 percent in those who reached final height (11 girls). The whole group had a gain in the height SDS of 0.8 ± 0.7 (p<0.01) and for those who reached a final height of 1.0 ± 0.8 (p<0.01). Final height (143.6 ±6.3 cm) was 3.9 ± 5.3 cm higher than the predicted height, and the height gain occurred before estrogen therapy. Oxandrolone had no significant influence on height gain. The significant variables contributing to the final height were the duration of growth hormone used and its use prior to starting estrogens, the initial height SDS, and the growth velocity during the first year of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that the use of growth hormone significantly increased the final height, which remained lower than the target. Results point to a need for starting growth hormone use as early as possible and to maximize treatment before estrogen replacement. It has been observed that even moderate doses of growth hormone may significantly increase early growth velocity.