Estudo retrospectivo de caracterização epidemiológica de queixa, diagnóstico e população pouco explorados num serviço de urgência de psiquiatria da infância e adolescência / Retrospective study of the epidemiological characterization of little explored complaints, diagnoses and population in a child and adolescent psychiatry emergency service

Introdução: A prevalência de transtornos mentais na população pediátrica é presumida em 13,4%. Porém, apenas um em cada seis recebe tratamento apropriado, evidenciando a lacuna entre necessidade e acesso à assistência. Isso resulta em maior risco para situações de crise psicossocial, especialmente entre aqueles em situações de vulnerabilidade com acesso limitado a recursos de tratamento. Diante da diversidade de temas no cenário de urgência em psiquiatria da infância e adolescência (PIA), nosso estudo escolhe tópicos menos explorados, visando compreender fatores sociodemográficos que levam essa população ao serviço de urgência de PIA. Objetivos: Caracterização epidemiológica de queixa (irritabilidade e uso de substâncias), diagnóstico (Autismo) e população (adolescentes em medidas socioeducativas) pouco explorados num serviço de urgência de PIA. Métodos: Estudo transversal retrospectivo realizado pela análise de prontuários dos pacientes, de até 18 anos, atendidos no período de 01 de junho de 2017 a 31 de maio de 2018 na urgência de PIA de um serviço de Belo Horizonte. Resultados: Agressividade, agitação e irritabilidade foram as queixas mais comuns no atendimento de urgência. A irritabilidade esteve associada ao diagnóstico de transtorno de humor sem especificação no atendimento de urgência. Transtorno do Espectro Autista foi o único diagnóstico associado à busca de atendimento por irritabilidade, com taxa de primodiagnóstico de 23% e em idade tardia. O uso de maconha, cocaína e álcool foi comum entre os pacientes atendidos na urgência, e a depressão foi o diagnóstico mais relacionado ao uso de substâncias (SPA). 24,8% dos atendimentos com relato de uso de SPA envolviam adolescentes em medidas socioeducativas (SE). Estes, frequentemente relataram vivências traumáticas e maior chance de quadros de transtornos relacionados ao estresse, de conduta e por uso de SPA. Conclusões: Os achados reforçam a hipótese de que as unidades de urgência podem servir como ponto inicial de diagnóstico e acesso de crianças e adolescentes com transtornos mentais, destacando possíveis lacunas na atenção básica. As unidades de SE parecem precisar aprimorar a abordagem de questões ligadas ao uso de SPA. Compreender as características da população que frequenta a urgência de PIA permite debater estratégias para prevenção e tratamento de transtornos com impacto na rede de cuidados da infância e adolescência.

Introduction: The prevalence of mental disorders in the pediatric population is estimated at 13.4%. However, only one in every six individuals receives adequate treatment, highlighting the gap between necessity and access to care. This disparity results in an elevated risk for psychosocial crisis situations, particularly among those in vulnerable circumstances with limited access to treatment resources. Given the diversity of issues in the context of child and adolescent psychiatry (CAP) emergencies, our study focuses on less explored topics, aiming to comprehend the sociodemographic factors that lead this population to seek urgent care in CAP settings. Objectives: Epidemiological characterization of underexplored complaints (Irritability and Substance Use), diagnosis (Autism) and population (Adolescents imprisoned) in a CAP emergency service. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study conducted through the analysis of medical records of patients, up to 18 years, attended at the CAP emergency department of a facility in Belo Horizonte, during the period from June 1, 2017, to May 31, 2018. Results: Aggressiveness, agitation and irritability were the most frequent complaints in emergency care. Irritability was associated with the diagnosis of unspecified mood disorder in the clinical setting. Autism Spectrum Disorder was the only pre-existing diagnosis associated with seeking care due to irritability, with a first-diagnosis rate of 23%, occurring later in age. The use of marijuana, cocaine, and alcohol was prevalent among patients attending the emergency department, with depression being the diagnosis most closely linked to the substance use (SU). Among cases involving reported of SU, 24.8% involved adolescents within socio-educational measures (SE), who often reported traumatic experiences. This group also exhibited higher likelihood of stress-related disorders, conduct disorders, and SU-related conditions. Conclusions: The findings reinforce the hypothesis that emergency units can serve as an initial point of contact for children and adolescents with mental disorders, highlighting potential gaps in primary care. SE units demonstrated a need for improvement in addressing issues related to SU. By comprehending the population frequenting the CAP emergency department, it becomes possible to discuss strategies for the prevention and treatment of disorders with impacts on the childhood and adolescence care network.

Early discharge predictors among inpatient crack cocaine users

Abstract Introduction High rates of early hospital discharge are often observed in crack cocaine users and are related to adverse outcomes and increased public spending. This study evaluated clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with early treatment discharge among crack users. Methods The sample comprised 308 men diagnosed with crack cocaine use disorder (crack only), aged 18 to 65 years, admitted between 2013 and 2017 to a male-only hospital unit to treat substance use disorders. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained using the Addiction Severity Index, 6th version, and a Sociodemographic Questionnaire. Results Early discharge (within 7 days) was significantly associated with lack of own income, insufficient family support, being single, and recent homelessness. Regarding drug use, lower treatment retention was related to younger age of crack use onset, recent alcohol use, and nicotine use. Factors such as age, skin color, and educational level showed no relation to the outcome. Conclusion Our findings suggest that presence of characteristics verifiable at the time of admission may be related to crack users' treatment retention. Identification of these factors can contribute to target interventions in order to improve treatment adherence in crack cocaine users.

Consumo de sustancias: caracterización de pacientes pertenecientes a la unidad de salud mental adultos- Hospital Hernán Henríquez Aravena / Substance use: characterization of patients belonging to the adult mental health unit - Hernán Henríquez Aravena Hospital

Introducción: las sustancias psicoactivas han formado parte de la existencia humana por miles de años, han sido empleadas con distintos fines, consolidando su uso y abuso durante los últimos años como una condición altamente prevalente en la sociedad. Actualmente, existen gran cantidad de sustancias y, así mismo, diversas formas de clasificación. En términos de prevalencia mundial hasta el momento no hay un estándar de oro que permita medir de manera exacta el consumo según cada región geográfica, lo que dificulta el estudio y constituye un desafío al momento de realizar comparaciones entre regiones. No obstante, en términos de prevalencia mundial, la sustancia más consumida es el alcohol, seguida por cannabis, opioides, anfetaminas y cocaína respectivamente. Objetivo: caracterizar pacientes adultos del policlínico de salud mental del Hospital Hernán Henríquez Aravena con diagnóstico relacionado al consumo de sustancias y establecer las principales sustancias consumidas. Materiales y Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal en la población objetivo mediante revisión de fichas clínicas de pacientes adultos atendidos en policlínico de salud mental del Hospital Hernán Henríquez Aravena, durante los años 2018, 2019, 2020. Los antecedentes recolectados del estudio se analizaron según la población general y se compararon según género. Resultados: en la muestra estudiada, 73.2% de los consumidores son de sexo masculino, siendo el alcohol la sustancia de mayor consumo, seguida por cocaína, marihuana y benzodiacepinas.

Introduction: psychoactive substances have been part of the existence of humanity for thousands of years and have been used for different purposes, consolidating its use and abuse in recent years as a highly prevalent condition in our society. They are a large number of substances, and also various forms of classification. In terms of world prevalence, to date, there is no gold standard method that allows the exact measurement of substance consumption to each geographical region, which makes the study difficult and constitutes a challenge when making comparisons between regions. However, in terms of world prevalence, the most consumed substance is alcohol, followed by cannabis, opioids, amphetamines, and cocaine respectively. Objective: characterize adult patients of the mental health polyclinic of the Hernán Henríquez Aravena Hospital with a diagnosis related to substance use and establish the main substances consumed. Material and Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the target population by reviewing the clinical records of adult patients treated at the mental health polyclinic of the Hernán Henríquez Aravena Hospital, during the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. The antecedents collected from the study were analyzed according to the general population and compared according to gender. Results: In the sample studied, 73.2% of the users are male, alcohol being the substance most consumed, followed by cocaine, marijuana, and benzodiazepines

Vasculitis inducida por cocaína-levamisol con manifestaciones cutáneas, articulares y abdominales: reporte de caso / Cocaine-levamisole induced vasculitis with cutaneous, joint and abdominal manifestations: case report

Resumen El levamisol es un antiparasitario de uso veterinario que actualmente es empleado para aumentar el volumen y la potencia de la cocaína. La mezcla de estas dos sustancias puede causar un cuadro caracterizado por lesiones propias de la cocaína, como la afección del cartílago septal con perforación del tabique nasal, y vasculitis cutánea de pequeños vasos con afectación de los pabellones auriculares y del cartílago nasal, afección conocida como vasculitis inducida por cocaína-levamisol (VICOL) que puede avanzar a necrosis e incluso ulceraciones cutáneas, asociadas a agranulocitosis, artralgias y glomerulonefritis . En el presente artículo se describe el caso de un paciente con historia de consumo de sustancias en quien se encontraron lesiones purpúricas palpables en miembros superiores, tronco, pabellones auriculares y miembros inferiores. Se consideró una clínica sugestiva de VICOL dado el antecedente de consumo de sustancias. En el proceso diagnóstico se descartaron entidades como la vasculitis por anticuerpos contra el citoplasma de los neutrófilos (ANCAs) y crioglobulinemia, entre otras posibles afecciones. Se llevó a cabo un tratamiento con esteroides y con ello presentó una respuesta adecuada, pero luego recurrieron los síntomas, particularmente abdominales, los cuales se consideraron asociados con vasculitis. Se le brindó manejo adicional con ciclofosfamida y nuevos pulsos de esteroides, con que se logró el control total de los síntomas. A través este caso se resaltan entonces los ejercicios diagnósticos y clínicos en la vasculitis cocaína- levamisol, y se sugiere la consideración de los síntomas abdominales como posible componente del cuadro vasculítico.

Abstract Levamisole is an antiparasitic agent for veterinary use. Currently it is used to increase the volume and potency of cocaine. Levamisole and cocaine combined result in the septum nasal perforation and small-vessel vasculitis in the ears and nasal cartilage. These findings are known as cocaine levamisole-induced vasculitis and can progress to necrosis and even skin ulceration, which is associated with agranulocytosis, arthralgia, and glomerulonephritis. This article describes the case of a patient with a history of substance abuse in whom palpable purpuric lesions were found in the upper and lower limbs, trunk, and ears. A clinical condition suggestive of vasculitis induced by cocaine-levamisole was considered, given the history of substance consumption. In the diagnostic process, entities such as Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodiy (ANCA) vasculitis and cryoglobulinemia, among other possible conditions, were ruled out. Steroid treatment was carried out, to which the patient had an adequate response, but then symptoms recurred, particularly abdominal, which were associated with vasculitis. Additional management with cyclophosphamide and new steroid pulses were provided, and with those symptom control was achieved. In this case report highlights the diagnostic and clinical exercises in cocaine levamisole vasculitis and is suggested the consideration of abdominal symptoms as a possible component of the vasculitis flare.

Exploring the Clinical Variables among Drug-Dependent HIV-Positive Patients: Implications for Treatment Strategies

This study explored the profile of HIV positive patients seeking treatment at a tertiary care addiction treatment facility. A retrospective study was done to collet detailed information on clinical characteristics: drug use (type, age of initiation, duration), general medical condition and past treatment history. The study included 138 patients with mean (SD) age 30.2 (8.3) years. Opioid dependence with injecting drug use (IDU) was diagnosed in 97% of the patients. The median age of injecting onset was 24.5 years (IQR 20-31 years). The most frequently injected substances were pheniramine (60.1%) and buprenorphine (59.4%). Past treatment seeking was reported by 57% patients and interestingly they were less likely to present any medical condition (2 =69.611, p < 0.001). Variability in the age of onset of drug use indicates the need for broad based approach to prevent IDU and motivation to seek treatment may lead to better health conditions.

Prevalence of suicide in cocaine users accessing health services: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: This study reviewed and analyzed the prevalence of suicidal behaviors among cocaine users who sought health services. Methods: This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published until January 2021. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, PsycINFO, and LILACS were searched. The inclusion criteria were observational (retrospective or prospective), case-control, and/or cross-sectional reports that contained samples of cocaine users aged over 14 years who were assessed in health facilities or were in treatment. The random-effects model was used to calculate the overall prevalence of suicidal behavior with a 95% confidence interval. Subgroup analysis was conducted to investigate sources of heterogeneity. Results: Twenty articles were included, yielding a total of 2,252 cocaine users. The estimated prevalence was 43.59% (95%CI 31.10-57.38) for suicidal ideation and 27.71% (95%CI 21.63-34.73) for suicide attempts. High heterogeneity was found between studies for both outcomes (I2 ≥ 93%), although subgroup analysis considering the quality of the studies showed a significant difference in suicide attempts (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Cocaine use can be considered a risk factor for suicidal behavior, and prevention and early screening measures should be implemented to facilitate adequate treatment.

Anger and substance abuse: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: Conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate levels of anger among substance users compared to non-user controls and to analyze the possible association between anger and psychoactive substance use (PSU). Methods: The procedures of this review followed the Meta-Analyzes of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIREME, PsycINFO) were searched. Results: Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis; 10 used the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI) anger trait subscale and two used the Buss-Perry-Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) anger subscale. The sample included 2,294 users of psychoactive substances and 2,143 non-users, all male. The mean difference in anger scale scores between users and non-users was 2.151 (95%CI 1.166-3.134, p ≤ 0.00, inconsistency index [I2] = 98.83) standard deviations. Age and abstinence duration did not moderate the difference in anger between substance users and non-users. Conclusion: Users of psychoactive substances had elevated anger scores compared to non-users, which represents a high risk of relapse. It is suggested that PSU treatment programs include intensive anger management modules, focusing on factors such as dealing with daily stressors, family conflicts, frustrations, and problems.

Does psychological therapy improve the mental health of people with borderline personality disorder and substance abuse disorder? / ¿Mejora la terapia psicológica la salud mental de las personas con trastorno límite de la personalidad y trastorno por abuso de sustancias? Una revisión sistemática

Abstract Introduction: People with comorbid borderline personality disorder (BPD) and substance abuse disorder (SUD) show great affectation and poorer treatment outcomes. Objective: The aim was to examine useful psychological treatments for people with co-morbid BPD and SUD. Method: The Cochrane Library, ISOC, Psychodoc, ProQuest Central, Pubmed, Web of Science and Scopus databases were consulted using a systematic literature review following PRISMA standards. A 185 articles were obtained, of which 12 were selected taking into account the inclusion criteria. The process was carried out by two independent evaluators and the level of agreement was excellent. Results: there are a variety of therapeutic options that, in general, improve the symptoms associated with BPD but not with SUD. Conclusion: more research is needed to evaluate the usefulness of psychological therapies in these patients.

Resumen Introducción: Las personas con trastorno límite de la personalidad (TLP) y trastorno por uso y abuso de sustancias (TUS) muestran una gran afectación emocional y peores resultados en el tratamiento psicológico. Objetivo: El objetivo fue examinar los tratamientos psicológicos útiles para las personas con TLP y TUS. Método: Se consultaron las bases de datos Cochrane Library, ISOC, Psychodoc, ProQuest Central, Pubmed, Web of Science y Scopus mediante una revisión bibliográfica sistemática siguiendo las normas PRISMA. Se obtuvieron 185 artículos, de los cuales se seleccionaron 12 teniendo en cuenta los criterios de inclusión. El proceso fue realizado por dos evaluadoras independientes y el nivel de acuerdo fue excelente. Resultados: existe una variedad de opciones terapéuticas que, en general, mejoran los síntomas asociados al TLP pero no al TUS. Conclusión: se necesita más investigación para evaluar la utilidad de las terapias psicológicas en estos pacientes.

Contextualizing migration and mental health in the post-COVID era

Background: The population of migrants all over the world is progressively rising. The major reasons for migration include the desire for self-actualization, moving to a place with more opportunities, tourism, and education, and escaping hardship and political unrest in the home country. In recent times climate change, insecurity, and economic hardship are top of the list. The global economy has suffered a major blow from the multiple waves of the lingering COVID-19 pandemic. To lessen the scourge of inflation and to restore economic stability, several countries are being forced to liberalize their immigration policies and therefore immigrants are welcomed in these nations. This review attempts to investigate how migration in the post-pandemic era affects migrants' mental health. Main Text: Migration and the COVID-19 epidemic both have beneficial and durable effects on the mental health of migrants and immigration laws have a direct impact on several health-related issues. Mental health disorders may develop at any point from the pre-migration phase to the post-migration settlement in the host nations. Factors such as host community, racism, marginalization, political climate, poor support, loss of social status, language barriers, undocumented status, climate change, mode of dressing in the host country, and several others may lead to mental health disorders among migrants. Unfortunately, there is limited access to care, and the services provided may not be culturally sensitive. Conclusion: Despite the benefits gotten from migration like financial benefits and economic development of the native country and the left behind family members, migration has enormous psychological complications which have to be attended to. Access to specialists who are trained to provide culturally sensitive interventions and implement outreach programs to introduce the services to the migrants' community should be encouraged.

Factors associated with smoking and transitioning to nyaope injection amongst women in the City of Tshwane Municipality: A self-report by women

Background: Substance use disorder has emerged as a key health and social challenge in South Africa (SA). It is projected that about 15% of South African youth, especially young women are prone to engage in drug use and the prospects of coming into contact with nyaope, a highly addictive drug, are higher. Nyaope is mainly smoked, but the prevalence of injecting it is increasing in most regions. Aim: This study aimed to explore and describe the perception of women, who use nyaope, about the factors contributing to nyaope smoking and transitioning to injecting nyaope amongst women in the City of Tshwane Municipality (CoT), Gauteng. Setting: The research was conducted within Community Oriented Substance Use Programme sites across the CoT Municipality. Methods: Qualitative research methods were utilised to explore and describe the perceptions of the participants on factors contributing to the use of nyaope amongst women residing in the CoT. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and thematically analysed. Results: Intimate partner influence (IPI), peer pressure, being misled by friends, weight loss, lack of effective coping mechanisms and counteracting other drugs contributed to women smoking nyaope. Additionally, a need for an intense high, IPI, influence by the social network, curiosity and cost-effectiveness contributed to women transitioning from smoking to injecting nyaope. Conclusion: The study has established factors contributing to smoking and transition to injecting nyaope as viewed by women residing in the CoT.

Executive functions and emotion regulation in substance use disorder / Funções executivas e regulação emocional no transtorno por uso de substâncias

OBJECTIVE: The executive functions (EF) and emotion regulation (ER) and their relationship with the substance use disorder (SUD) were analyzed. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was used. The sample consisted of 130 volunteers divided into three groups: group 01 (n = 60), composed of participants who did not meet the diagnostic criteria for any type of SUD; group 02 (n = 51), with users with alcohol and/ or tobacco use disorder; group 03 (n = 19), with users with multiple substance use disorder, including at least one illicit substance. RESULTS: Group 02 presented worse performance in EF and ER when compared to group 01, and showed a significant correlation between the working memory and the use of maladaptive ER. Group 03 showed great losses in EF and ER when compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: This study supports the idea that EF, ER and SUD are related. In addition, it was observed that people with SUD had worse performance in EF and ER when compared to people without SUD, greater damage being observed in people with SUD of polysubstances.

OBJETIVO: Analisaram-se as funções executivas (FE) e a regulação emocional (RE) e a sua relação com o transtorno por uso de substâncias (TUS). MÉTODOS: Utilizou-se um delineamento transversal. A amostra foi composta por 130 voluntários, divididos em três grupos: grupo 01 (n = 60), composto pelos participantes que não preenchiam os critérios diagnósticos para nenhum tipo de TUS; grupo 02 (n = 51), com os entrevistados com TUS de álcool e/ou cigarro; grupo 03 (n = 19), com os voluntários com TUS de polissubstâncias, incluindo pelo menos uma substância ilícita. RESULTADOS: O grupo 02 apresentou pior desempenho nas FE e na RE, quando comparado ao grupo 01, e exibiu uma correlação significativa entre a memória de trabalho e o uso de RE desadaptativa. O grupo 03 apresentou maior prejuízo nas FE e na RE, quando comparado aos demais grupos. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo apoia a ideia de que as FE, a RE e o TUS estão relacionados. Além disso, observou-se que as pessoas com TUS apresentaram pior desempenho nas FE e na RE, quando comparadas com as pessoas sem o TUS, sendo as com TUS de polissubstâncias com maior prejuízo.

Consumo de alcohol, marihuana y cocaína en estudiantes de medicina de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile / Use of alcohol, marijuana and cocaine among medical students of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

Introducción: El uso de sustancias en adolescentes y adultos jóvenes es un problema importante en Chile. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar la prevalencia de consumo de alcohol, marihuana y cocaína entre los estudiantes de medicina de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC), estudiar su relación con ciertas variables psicosociales y contrastar con estudios previos. Métodos: Se diseñó una encuesta voluntaria y de autoreporte, que incluyó el cuestionario "AUDIT" para consumo de alcohol, preguntas de la encuesta de Servicio Nacional para la Prevención y Rehabilitación del Consumo de Drogas y Alcohol (SENDA) para consumo de marihuana y cocaína, y preguntas sobre características sociodemográficas. Resultados: Respondieron 559 estudiantes de un total de 857 (65,2%). La prevalencia de consumo de riesgo de alcohol fue 15,1%, mientras que de consumo perjudicial fue 5,2%. La prevalencia de consumo de marihuana fue 57,2% alguna vez en la vida, 38,2% el último año, y 18,5% el último mes. La prevalencia de consumo de cocaína fue 2,8% alguna vez en la vida, 1,6% el último año, y 0,5% el último mes. Se encontraron asociaciones significativas con las variables estudiadas. Conclusiones: Ha aumentado considerablemente el consumo de sustancias entre los estudiantes de medicina de la PUC. No obstante, la prevalencia es menor si se com-para con el resto de estudiantes de educación superior chilena y similar a lo reportado en estudios de Norteamérica y Europa.

Introduction: The objective of this work is to determine alcohol, cannabis and cocaine use prevalence among medical students from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, study its relationship with psychosocial variables and, compare our results with previous studies. Methods: A voluntary and self-report survey was designed, which included (AUDIT) for alcohol consumption, questions taken from the National Service for Prevention and Rehabilitation from Alcohol and Drugs ́ (SENDA) Survey for cannabis and cocaine use, and questions about the students ́ sociodemographics. Results: 559 students answered from a total of 857 (65.2%). Risky alcohol use prevalence was 15.1%, and harmful alcohol use prevalence was 5.2%. Cannabis use prevalence was 57.2% ever in their lifetime, 38.2% last year, and 18.5% last month. Cocaine use prevalence was 2.8% ever in their lifetime, 1.6% last year and 0.5% last month. Associations were found between substance use and our studied variables. Conclusions: Substance use among medical students from Pontificia Universidad Católica has risen considerably. However, the prevalence remains low compared to the prevalence in the rest of Chilean higher education students and similar to the reported one from studies in European and North American medical students.

Función de la impulsividad en el trastorno por consumo de sustancias / Impulsivity`s role in substance use disorder

Resumen La proporción de usuarios de una sustancia de abuso que desarrolla problemas con su consumo (abuso o dependencia) representa solo una parte de esta población. En México, el 63.8 % de la población consume alcohol, y de ellos, el 15 % desarrolla algún trastorno por consumo de alcohol (TCA). Se ha observado una relación causal entre el trastorno por consumo de sustancias (TCS) y la falta de autocontrol. Es decir, satisfacer necesidades de manera impulsiva, v. gr., consumir una droga sin evaluar las consecuencias. La corteza prefrontal (CPF) es el principal sustrato neuroanatómico del autocontrol y característicamente la CPF alcanza la madurez alrededor de los 30 años, sugieriendo que el autocontrol se alcanza despues de esta edad. Se ha propuesto que todos los grupos etarios que no han consolidado el uso del autocontrol son vulnerables al TCS. Similarmente ocurre con aquellos sujetos que por algún trastorno psiquiátrico tienen como característica una limitada función prefrontal. La CPF coordina una red subcortical cuya interacción depende de distintos sistemas de neurotransmisión, entre ellos, endocanabinoides. En este trabajo se revisó la función de la CPF y del sistema de endocanabinoides (sECB) y su relación con la vulnerabilidad a la adicción y otros trastornos psiquiátricos.

Abstract The proportion of users of a substance of abuse who develop problems with its use (abuse or dependence) represents only a part of this population. In Mexico, 63.8% of the population consumes alcohol and only 15% of them develop an alcohol use disorder (AUD). A causal relation has been observed between substance use disorder (SUD) and the lack of self-control. Which means, satisfying needs in an impulsive way, v.gr. using a drug, without considering the consequences. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the main neuroanatomical substrate of self-control and characteristically reaches maturity around the age of 30, suggesting that self-control is reached after this age. We suggest that all age groups that have not consolidated the use of self-control are vulnerable to SUD. The same occurs with those who, due to a psychiatric disorder, have the characteristic of a limited prefrontal function. The PFC coordinates a subcortical network whose interaction depends on different neurotransmission systems among them, the endocannabinoids system (ECBs). In this work we will review the function of the PFC, the ECBs and its relationship with vulnerability to addiction and other psychiatric disorders.

The contribution of mindfulness to outpatient substance use disorder treatment in Brazil: a preliminary study

Objective: To explore the contribution of a mindfulness-based intervention as an adjuvant to outpatient substance use disorder treatment. Outcomes included substance use behavior, depression and anxiety symptoms, and anger expression. Methods: This preliminary study for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial with stratified random allocation included three months of follow-up. In two outpatient clinics linked to public universities, a mindfulness-based intervention plus treatment as usual (experimental group n=22) was compared to treatment as usual (control group n=20). The study included data from self-report measurements and the patients' records, which were evaluated according to intention-to-treat analysis through generalized estimating equations and generalized method of moments estimation. Results: The experimental group had lower symptoms of depression (b=-6.82; 95%CI -12.45 to -1.18) and anxiety (b=-0.25; 95%CI -0.42 to -0.09), and anger expression (b=-9.76; 95%CI -18.98 to -0.54) three months after the intervention. We detected no effect on substance use behavior. Conclusion: The mindfulness-based intervention yielded promising results as an adjuvant to outpatient substance use disorder treatment, since it reduced levels of highly prevalent symptoms in this population. However, further studies with longer follow-up periods and larger samples are required.

What are the factors that contribute to aggression in patients with co-occurring antisocial personality disorder and substance abuse?

Abstract Background A significant number of individuals with high levels of aggression have substance use disorder problems. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effect of substance use disorder on aggression in young men with Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Methods This cross-sectional study included 328 patients and were diagnosed with ASPD with a comorbidity of substance use disorder, along with 111 healthy young male subjects. Results The total aggression scores of the patients with a diagnosis of ASPD were significantly higher than those of the healthy group (p < 0.001). Mean scores of aggression subscale, except for indirect aggression, were higher in patients diagnosed with ASPD (p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between aggression scores and total API scores in patients diagnosed with ASPD (p < 0.001). Aggression scores were higher when subjects were using volatile substances compared to other substances (p < 0.05). Aggression scores increased with duration of substance use disorder (p < 0.001). Discussion Substance use disorder should be treated first to mitigate aggression in individuals with ASPD. Patients with severe addiction to volatile substances should be given treatment priority. Further studies are necessary to determine the cause of aggression in individuals who abuse substances.

PER3 VNTR variant and susceptibility to smoking status/substance use disorder in a Turkish population

Abstract Background Substance use and smoking exert devastating impact on sleep, especially hindering the ease of falling asleep, compromising the sleep maintenance, and distorting the sleep cycles. PERIOD genes are believed to play a role in individual differences in sleep timing by influencing circadian. Objective The aim of this study was to ascertain whether Per3 VNTR variant affects suspectibility of individuals to substance use disorder (SUD) and smoking status in a Turkish population. Methods A total of 549 subjects, including 212 SUD patients, 160 smoker, and 177 healthy controls, matched by ethnicity, age, and gender, were recruited in a case-control study. Genotyping of Per3 variant was performed using PCR method. Results When the SUD, smoker groups and controls were compared in terms of 5R/5R, 5R/4R, 4R/4R genotypes, no significant difference was observed. Besides, allele frequencies of Per3 VNTR were similar among the groups. Discussion Our data indicate that Per3 VNTR variant is not associated with the risk of SUD and smoking status in our population.

Percepções de profissionais sobre atendimentos em saúde para mulheres usuárias de crack / Perceptions of professionals about health care for women crack users / Percepciones de profesionales sobre atenciones en salud para mujeres usuarias de crack

Resumo As percepções dos profissionais de saúde que atendem mulheres usuárias de crack podem auxiliar no aprimoramento dos atendimentos. Assim, este estudo objetivou compreender essas percepções. Se trata de um estudo qualitativo, com 33 participantes divididos em três grupos focais submetidos à análise temática. Estabeleceram-se dois eixos centrais: a) usuárias de crack e b) serviços de saúde. Posteriormente, identificaram-se oito temas e seis subtemas. No primeiro eixo destacaram-se: características das usuárias, ausência de rede de apoio, violência, estigma de gênero, prostituição e comorbidades clínicas. No segundo ressaltaram-se as dificuldades na articulação entre os serviços e questões a serem aprimoradas, como: prevenção na atenção básica, motivação dos profissionais, serviços específicos para mulheres, especificidades da gestação e combate ao estigma. A partir dos resultados, foram identificados e discutidos os desafios e as potencialidades que se dão nos atendimentos de mulheres usuárias de crack.

Abstract The perceptions of health professionals that serve crack-using women can help in the improvement of health care. Thus, this study verified such perceptions via a qualitative study with 33 participants, divided into three focus groups subjected to thematic analysis. Two a priori central axes were defined: 1) crack-using women, and 2) health services. Subsequently, eight themes and six subthemes were identified. Axis 1) showed: characteristics of the users, lack of support network, violence, gender stigma, prostitution and clinical comorbidities. In axis 2), there were challenges in articulating services and issues to be improved, such as prevention in primary care, motivation of professionals, specific services for women, specific aspects of gestation and stigma. The results allowed to identify and discuss the potentialities and challenges in providing healthcare services to crack-using women.

Resumen Las percepciones de los profesionales de la salud que atienden a mujeres usuarias de crack pueden auxiliar en el perfeccionamiento de las atenciones. Este estudio objetivó comprender las percepciones de profesionales de la salud sobre atenciones a las usuarias de crack. Es un estudio cualitativo, con 33 participantes, divididos en tres grupos focales sometidos al análisis temático. Dos ejes centrales se establecieron a priori: 1) mujeres usuarias de crack; y 2) servicios de salud. Posteriormente, se identificaron ocho temas y seis subtemas. En el primer eje se destacaron: las características de las usuarias, la ausencia de la red de apoyo, la violencia, el estigma de género, la prostitución y las comorbilidades clínicas. En el segundo eje, se resalta las dificultades en la articulación entre los servicios y también cuestiones a ser mejoradas, como: prevención en la atención básica, motivación de los profesionales, servicios específicos para mujeres, especificidades de la gestación y combate al estigma. A partir de los resultados fue posible identificar y discutir las potencialidades y desafíos en las atenciones de mujeres usuarias de crack.

Trastornos del ánimo y trastornos por uso de sustancias: una comorbilidad compleja y frecuente / Mood disorders and substance use disorders: a complex and frequent comorbidity

La comorbilidad entre trastornos del ánimo (TA) y trastornos por uso de sustancias (TUS) es frecuente, empeora el pronóstico de ambos cuadros y dificulta su tratamiento. El reconocimiento y manejo de síntomas anímicos en usuarios de sustancias significa un desafío en la práctica clínica. Si bien existen los trastornos anímicos secundarios a la patología por consumo, la evidencia muestra que la mayor parte de las veces en que ambas patologías coexisten, el trastorno anímico es primario, por lo tanto, el uso de sustancias activo no debiese impedir un tratamiento oportuno del TA, sin descuidar el manejo específico del uso de sustancias, ya que el tratamiento del cuadro afectivo por sí sólo no resuelve el TUS. Existe acuerdo en la necesidad de realizar un tratamiento integrado de ambos trastornos, que incorpore intervenciones farmacológicas y psicoterapéuticas ya validadas para el tratamiento de ambos trastornos por separado, y especialmente aquellas que han mostrado efectividad en la comorbilidad. El tratamiento debe tener un enfoque en la recuperación, que promueva la adherencia y reinserción social. Se requiere mayor investigación sobre el pronóstico y el tratamiento de la comorbilidad entre Trastorno anímicos y por uso de sustancias, y el fortalecimiento de la red de salud general y salud mental en la pesquisa y manejo de estos cuadros.

Comorbidity between Mood Disorders (MD) and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) are common and it worsens the prognosis of both conditions. The recognition and management of mood symptoms in SUD patients is a usual challenge in clinical practice. As opposed to the usual belief, most mood disorders in TUS patients are primary disorders and therefore the use of active substances should not prevent timely treatment of MD, without neglecting the specific management of substance use, since that the treatment of the affective condition alone does not resolve your SUD. There is agreement on the need to perform an integrated treatment of both disorders, which incorporates pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions already validated for the treatment of both disorders, and especially those that have shown effectiveness in comorbidity. Treatment should have a focus on recovery, which promotes adherence and social reintegration. More research is required on the prognosis and treatment of comorbidity between mood and substance use disorders, and the strengthening of the general health and mental health network in the research and management of these conditions.

Assessment of Interleukin 6 and C-reactive Protein as Inflammatory Markers among Patients with Substance Use Disorder in Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kaduna

Aim:This research aimed to determine the relationship between substance use disorder (SUD) and the biomarkers of inflammation: (C-reactive protein: CRP and Interleukin-6: IL-6) to investigate inflammatory reaction among SUD patients. Study Design:This is a cross sectional comparative study. Place and Duration of Study:This study was conducted at Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital (FNPH) Kaduna, North-western Nigeria which serve as a referral center for patients with psychiatric disorders from all the NorthWestern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja between August 2018 and August 2019. Methodology:The study population was drawn from SUD patients who were positive to urine drug test. The serum CRP and IL-6 levels of 180 SUD patients (study group) were compared with the serum CRP and IL-6 levels of 180 apparently normal individuals who do not have history of substance abuse.Results:The median and interquartile range of the ages of both the study group and the control group were 30 (23 –40) and33.5 (24-41) years respectively. The study population consist of 162 (90%) males and 18 (10%) females with median ages and range of 30.5 (15 –72) and 26 (14 –40) years respectively. A significant increase in IL-6 in SUD was observed (P = .0001) but no significant difference observed in CRP at 95% confidence interval (P = .73). It was observed that there was a strong positive relationship between IL-6 and CRP (r = 0.6646); P = .0001) in SUD patients.Conclusion:IL-6 was significantly higher in people with SUD and as CRP levels increases IL-6 increases. This suggests that there is a level of inflammatory reaction in substance use disorder patients. Thus both serum CRP and IL-6 level can be considered as biomarkers of inflammation in patients with SUD.

HIV and syphilis infections and associated factors among patients in treatment at a Specialist Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drugs Center in São Paulo's "Cracolândia"

Abstract Introduction This study describes the epidemiological scenario of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis at the biggest specialist drug addiction center in Brazil. The great challenge is to find strategies to reduce the impact of inequality and discrimination and develop policies to protect individuals living with - or at risk of - infections. Methods During the period from January 1 to May 31, 2016, a cross-sectional study was conducted on which all patients (N = 806) seeking inpatient treatment were enrolled. A structured diagnostic interview and rapid tests were conducted initially, and diagnoses were confirmed by tests conducted at a venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL). Results HIV and syphilis rates were 5.86% and 21.9%, respectively. Women were nearly 2.5 times more likely to have syphilis. HIV infection was associated with unprotected sex (odds ratio [OR]: 3.27, p = 0.003, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.51-7.11), and suicidal ideation (OR: 6.63, p = 0.001, 95%CI: 3.37-14.0). Although only 1.86% reported injecting drugs at any point during their lifetimes, this variable was associated with both HIV and syphilis. Elevated rates of HIV and syphilis were observed in the context of this severe social vulnerability scenario. Conclusion The risk factors identified as associated with HIV and syphilis should be taken into consideration for implementation of specific prevention strategies including early diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STI) to tackle the rapid spread of STIs in this population.