Acurácia do escore de referência endoscópico para esofagite eosinofílica em crianças / Accuracy of the eosinophilic esophagitis endoscopic reference score in children

ABSTRACT Background: To assess the efficacy of applying the endoscopic reference score for EoE (EREFS) in children with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction naïve to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted by reviewing reports and photographs of upper gastrointestinal endoscopies (UGE) and esophageal biopsies of patients with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction. Patients who were treated with PPI or had other conditions that may cause esophageal eosinophilia were excluded. Results: Of the 2,036 patients evaluated, endoscopic findings of EoE were identified in 248 (12.2%) and more than one abnormality was observed in 167 (8.2%). Among all patients, 154 (7.6%) presented esophageal eosinophilia (≥15 eosinophils per high power field) (P<0.01). In this group, 30 patients (19.5%) had normal endoscopy. In patients with EoE, edema (74% vs 6.5%, P<0.01) and furrows (66.2% vs 2.4%, P<0.01) were more prevalent than in the control group. Association of edema and furrows was more frequent in patients with EoE than in the control group (29.2% vs 1.6%, P<0.01, OR=24.7, CI=15.0-40.5). The presence of more than one endoscopic finding had sensitivity of 80.5%, specificity of 93.4%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 50%, negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.3%, and accuracy of 92.4%. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study showed that endoscopic features suggestive of EoE had high specificity and NPV for diagnosing EoE in children naïve to PPI therapy. These findings highlight the importance of the EREFS in contributing to early identification of inflammatory and fibrostenosing characteristics of EoE, making it possible to identify and to avoid progression of the disease.

RESUMO Contexto: Avaliar a eficácia da aplicação do escore de referência endoscópico para EoE (EREFS) em crianças com sintomas de disfunção esofágica sem tratamento prévio com inibidores da bomba de prótons (IBP). Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal observacional por meio de revisão de laudos e fotos de endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) e biópsias de esôfago de pacientes com sintomas de disfunção esofágica. Pacientes tratados com IBP ou com outras condições que podem causar eosinofilia esofágica foram excluídos. Resultados: Dos 2.036 pacientes avaliados, os achados endoscópicos de EoE foram identificados em 248 (12,2%) e mais de uma anormalidade foi observada em 167 (8,2%). Entre todos os pacientes, 154 (7,6%) apresentaram eosinofilia esofágica (≥15 eosinófilos por campo de grande aumento) (P<0,01). Nesse grupo, 30 pacientes (19,5%) apresentaram endoscopia normal. Em pacientes com EoE, edema (74% vs 6,5%, P<0,01) e linhas verticais (66,2% vs 2,4%, P<0,01) foram mais prevalentes quando comparados ao grupo controle. A associação de edema e linhas verticais foi mais frequente em pacientes com EoE do que no grupo controle (29,2% vs 1,6%, P<0,01, OR=24,7, IC=15,0-40,5). A presença de mais de um achado endoscópico teve sensibilidade de 80,5%, especificidade de 93,4%, valor preditivo positivo de 50%, valor preditivo negativo de 98,3% e acurácia de 92,4%. Conclusão: Em conclusão, esse estudo mostrou que as características endoscópicas sugestivas de EoE apresentam especificidade e VPN elevados para o diagnóstico da enfermidade em crianças sem tratamento prévio com IBP. Estes achados reforçam a importância do EREFS em contribuir para a identificação precoce de características inflamatórias e fibroestenosantes, possibilitando identificar e evitar a progressão da doença.

Gnathostoma infection after ingestion of raw fish is a probable cause of eosinophilic meningitis in the Brazilian Amazon

ABSTRACT We report a case of eosinophilic meningitis associated with the ingestion of raw fish (Cichla sp.) from the Brazilian Amazon, likely caused by Gnathostoma. A 36-year-old male visited Juruena river on a fishing trip. After 50 days, the patient presented with an intense frontal headache. A cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed 63% eosinophilia. Another individual who ingested raw fish developed linear dermatitis on the abdominal wall. Anti-Gnathostoma serum antibodies were detected, and the patient made a full recovery after treatment with corticosteroids and albendazole. To date, autochthonous Gnathostoma spp. infections in Latin American countries have only caused linear panniculitis. This report raises awareness of gnathostomiasis-causing meningitis.

Pelvic Ewing Sarcoma: The Great Mimicker / Sarcoma de Ewing pélvico: o grande imitador

Abstract Ewing sarcoma is the most common malignant bone tumor of the pelvis in children and young adults. Even with aggressive treatment, its survival rate is amongst the poorest. Classical presentation may not be the rule. It may simulate clinically, imagiologically and histopathologically other nonmalignant entities. Therefore, its suspicion should not be overlooked. We report two cases of pelvic Ewing sarcoma: the first mimicking eosinophilic granuloma, and the second mimicking osteomyelitis. In the latter, we also report an atypical finding of its natural history: an initial response to antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment. In both cases, we highlight the possibility of an inconclusive percutaneous bone biopsy and the importance of immunochemistry and cytogenetics for the definitive diagnosis.

Resumo O sarcoma de Ewing é o tumor ósseo maligno da pelve mais comum em crianças e adultos jovens. Mesmo com tratamento agressivo, sua taxa de sobrevivência está entre as piores. A apresentação clássica pode não ser a regra. Ele pode simular clinicamente, imaginologicamente e histopatologicamente outras entidades não malignas. Portanto, sua suspeita não deve ser negligenciada. Relatamos dois casos de sarcoma pélvico: o primeiro imitando granuloma eosinofílico e o segundo imitando osteomielite. Neste último, também relatamos um achado atípico de sua história natural: uma resposta inicial ao antibiótico e ao tratamento anti-inflamatório. Em ambos os casos, destacamos a possibilidade de uma biópsia óssea percutânea inconclusiva e a importância da imunoquímica e da citogenética para o diagnóstico definitivo.

Serum Periostin Level in Children with Asthma

Objectives To determine the average serum periostin level in children with asthma between 6 and 16 y of age, and to fnd out if the levels correlated with markers of eosinophilic infammation, asthma control, and severity. Methods Children under follow-up at a tertiary care centre were enrolled. Children with conditions causing elevated serum periostin other than asthma, or history of systemic steroid use in the past 6 mo were excluded. Serum total IgE and periostin were estimated by ELISA. Results The median (IQR) serum periostin level was 52.6 (45.4, 58.3) ng/mL. Levels did not vary with age, gender, duration of symptoms, positive family history, or history of exacerbations in the last 6 mo. There was no signifcant correlation with anthropometric parameters or their z scores, or markers of eosinophilic infammation in blood including serum total IgE, eosinophil percentage or absolute eosinophil count. There was no diference in median periostin levels of children with diferent asthma symptom control or asthma severity. Conclusions In a group of 26 Indian children with physician-diagnosed asthma, serum periostin showed no signifcant correlation to markers of eosinophilic infammation.

Subserous Eosinophilic Colitis: A Case Report in a Private Hospital in Lima, Peru

Eosinophilic colitis is a rare gastrointestinal disease that belongs to the group of so-called primary eosinophilic diseases of the digestive tract. There are three types: mucosa, transmural (muscular), and subserous. We present the case of a 23-year-old male patient with a clinical picture of abdominal pain, nausea, chronic diarrhea, and ascites. Parasitic and other secondary etiologies were ruled out. Upper digestive endoscopy was not helpful. Colonoscopy revealed characteristics of inflammation in the distal ileum and ascending colon, the histological findings of which were consistent with eosinophilic colitis. The study of ascitic fluid was suggestive of eosinophilic ascites. The patient received induction treatment with prednisone 40 mg daily orally; remission was achieved after two weeks, and maintenance therapy based on prednisone was continued with the progressive withdrawal of the dose. Control of the disease was successful.

La colitis eosinofílica es una patología gastrointestinal infrecuente que pertenece al grupo de las denominadas enfermedades primarias eosinofílicas del tracto digestivo. Existen 3 tipos: mucosa, transmural (muscular) y subserosa. Presentamos el caso de un paciente varón, de 23 años de edad, con un cuadro clínico de dolor abdominal, náuseas, diarrea crónica y presentación de ascitis. Se descartan etiologías parasitarias y otras secundarias. La endoscopia digestiva alta no fue contribuidora. Mediante una colonoscopia se observaron características de inflamación en el íleon distal y el colon ascendente, cuyos hallazgos histológicos son compatibles con colitis eosinofílica. El estudio de líquido ascítico es sugestivo de ascitis eosinofílica. El paciente recibió tratamiento de inducción con prednisona a 40 mg diarios por vía oral, se logró la remisión a las 2 semanas y se continuó con terapia de mantenimiento a base de prednisona con retiro progresivo de la dosis. Se logró el control de la enfermedad de manera exitosa.

HISTOMORPHOLOGICAL STUDY OF CHOLECYSTECTOMIES IN A TERITIARY CARE CENTER

Introduction: Cholecystectomy is the most common surgical procedure performed for cholelithiasis (gall stones). Cholelithiasis is one of the most common gastro intestinal disorder worldwide. Usually asymptomatic, but commonly encountered symptoms may be right upper quadrant pain, dyspepsia and belching. The incidence of cholelithiasis is 2-4 times more in women than in men. The aim of the present study is to identify various morphological patterns and frequency of gall bladder lesions in cholecystectomy specimens. The Materials And Methods: present study was a cross sectional descriptive study of all cholecystectomy specimens received in the department of pathology, NRI Institute of Medical Sciences, Sangivalasa, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh; conducted over a period of 12 months from September 2021 to August 2022. The relevant and detailed clinical history were taken and processing was done in these specimens for histopathological examination. A total of 80 cholecystectomy specimens were received in the Results: department. Out of which, 79 were in?ammatory gall bladder lesions and only one case was reported as malignancy. The most common age group affected were in 4th to 5th decade with female preponderance comprising of 47cases (58.75%) while the gall bladder carcinoma was reported in 72 years of age. Among the in?ammatory lesions, most common one was chronic cholecystitis comprising of 64 cases, 80.5% (63.6% associated with gall stones) were chronic cholecystitis, followed by 10 cases (12.5%) of acute cholecystitis (100% associated with gall stones), 2cases (2.5%) of polyps & Adenomyomatosis each. Only one case (1.25%) of each Cholesterolosis & gall bladder adenocarcinoma was reported. Chronic cholecystitis is the Conclusion: most common gall bladder disease for which cholecystectomies are being done. The present had reported various morphological patterns encountered in the cholecystectomy specimens received in the department

Analysis of clinical features of 147 cases of ANCA-associated vasculitis / 中华风湿病学杂志

Objective:To analyze the clinical characteristics of patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV).Methods:A retrospective study was conducted on AAV patients with long-term follow-up in the rheumatology outpatient clinic of Peking Union Medical College Hospital between February 2015 and February 2022. The demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, concurrent events, treatment, and prognosis of the three clinical subtypes of AAV were collected and analyzed.Results:There were 71, 45, and 31 cases of granulomatous polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and eosinophilic granulomatous polyangiitis (EGPA), respectively, among 147 patients. The ANCA positivity rates in the three groups were 91.5%, 95.6%, and 19.4% ( χ2=76.68, P<0.01), respectively. The upper respiratory tract and lungs were the most frequently affected organs in GPA and EGPA, and the kidneys and lower respiratory tract were the main organs involved in MPA. In addition, cardiac and neurological involvement and thrombosis rates were significantly higher in EGPA patients than in GPA and MPA (12.9%, 9.7%, 41.9% and 19.4%, respectively; χ2=8.51、7.13、7.54、0.02, P<0.05) .The median follow-up time for the three groups of patients was 43, 28, and 46 months respectively.Relapse was more common in patients with GPA and EGPA (up to 59.2% and 64.5%; χ2=11.26, P=0.004), with the lungs and ENT being the most common relapse organs (GPA of 61.9% and 40.5%, EGPA of 55.0% and 50.0%), the lungs and kidneys were the most common manifestations in MPA relapse (64.3% and 60.0%, respectively). The main therapeutic agents were glucocortoid (95.9%), cyclophosphamide (71.4%), methotrexate (54.4%), tripterygium wilfordiz (34.0%),mycophenolate mofetil (31.3%), azathioprine (29.3%), leflunomide (19.0%), rituximab (19.0%), and tacrolimus/cyclosporine (8.8%). There were 6 deaths (4.1%) occurred during the follow-up period of this study. Conclusion:The clinical features of AAV are similar to those reported in the literature and relapses are common>he vast majority of patients need to be treated with glucocorticoid combined with immunosuppressive agents.

Progress in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases / 国际儿科学杂志

Eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases are a group of diseases with repeated or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms and the increase of eosinophils in gastrointestinal mucosa.Pathology shows an increase in the number of eosinophils in gastrointestinal mucosa.Fibrosis can be seen in the lamina propria of esophageal mucosa in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.A variety of cytokines may be chemotactic to the aggregation of eosinophils, including Th2 cytokines, eotaxin, thymic stromal lymphopoietin, macrophage migration inhibitory factor, sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin, integrin and extracellular matrix protein.The intestinal tissue injury of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases may be related to eosinophil degranulation and secretion of specific products, inflammatory response, oxidative damage, fibrosis, tissue remodeling and impaired barrier function.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced eosinophilic fasciitis: a case report and literature review / 中华内科杂志

A 58-year-old male patient with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma developed a rash and skin tightness on the face, limbs, and trunk together with joint stiffness and dysfunction after 6 months of treatment with the programmed cell death protein-1 inhibitor camrelizumab. Laboratory tests revealed progressive eosinophilia over 6 months, with the eosinophil count increasing from 0.07×10 9/L to 3.3×10 9/L. Magnetic resonance imaging showed thickened skin of both forearms, while T 2-weighted imaging showed markedly increased signal intensity within the myofascia. Skin biopsy of the right forearm showed thickened and fibrosed fascia and infiltration of inflammatory cells, including lymphocytes, plasma cells, and eosinophils. The patient was diagnosed with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-induced eosinophilic fasciitis (EF). After beginning treatment with methylprednisolone (40 mg daily), methotrexate (10 mg/week), and baricitinib (4 mg daily), his symptoms of skin tightness and joint dysfunction significantly improved within 1 month, and his peripheral blood eosinophil count decreased to 0.17×10 9/L. ICI-induced EF is a rare immune-related adverse reaction. To date, only 20 cases have been reported in published foreign literature, and their clinical characteristics are summarized here. The time from ICI treatment to EF was 12 (8,15) months, and the main clinical manifestations included skin involvement ( n=19), joint dysfunction ( n=11), myalgia/muscle weakness ( n=9), and peripheral eosinophilia ( n=16). After treatment, the clinical symptoms of EF improved in 17 patients, and eosinophil counts returned to normal after 3 (1,8) months. EF is a dysfunctional adverse response to ICI therapy. Tumor patients undergoing immunotherapy should be monitored for symptoms of EF. Early treatment is essential for preventing complications.

The predicting role of postoperative changes in self-reported symptoms in patients with recurrence eosinophilic chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective:To investigate whether changes in postoperative symptoms and signs in patients can predict the recurrence of ECRS after nasal endoscopic sinus surgery. Methods:A total of 70 adult patients with ECRS were enrolled for ESS surgery from June 2020 to March 2022 in a single center. There were 50 males and 20 females, with an average age of （46.9±14.5） years. Follow-up after ESS was at least 52 weeks. Patients undergo peripheral blood tests, CT of the sinuses, olfactory T&T test, visual analogue scale of symptoms（VAS）, and endoscopic scoring. Results:VAS scores and endoscopic scores were analyzed at preoperative and 6th week, 12th week, 24th week and 52th week postoperative. After 12th week postoperatively, there was a clear correlation between symptom scores and endoscopic scores. Moreover, olfactory disorder and nasal discharge were the two most obvious symptoms. There were differences in the expression of multiple preoperative clinical inflammatory indicators between the symptom-controled group and the symptom-uncontrolled group（previous surgical history, concomitant asthma, nasal smear eosinophil, serum EOS%, total IgE, CT score, olfactory score, and symptom score, all with P<0.05）, while there was no difference in baseline endoscopic score（P>0.05）. At 12th week postoperative, the two groups of patients showed significant differences in both symptom scores and endoscopic scores. The symptoms and endoscopic score at the 12th week point of follow-up were used as predictive indicators for recurrence, with sensitivity and specificity of 62.5% and 83.3%, respectively. Conclusion:The changes in postoperative symptom score and endoscopic score in ECRSwNP patients indicated that the recurred ECRS. In the symptom-uncontrolled group, symptomatic and endoscopic scores showed consistent increased scores; In the symptom-controlled group, conflicting results between increased endoscopic scores and stable symptoms suggest that the presence of asymptomatic recurrence must be considered. The changes in symptoms and signs at the 12th week point of follow-up can serve as clinical indicators for preventing disease recurrence.

Which are the best murine models to study Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis? A contemporary review

Abstract Objective: Mechanisms that lead to Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis (ECRS) are not fully established in the literature. It is desirable to assess ECRS in a model that embraces most of the related events. This article reviewed the murine models for ECRS and compared them regarding eosinophilic polypoid formation. Methods: The authors reviewed the articles that included the terms "chronic rhinosinusitis" OR "chronic sinusitis" AND "animal model". We analyzed articles in English that evaluated both the number of polyps and the number of eosinophils in the sinus mucosa of mouse models. Results: We identified a total of 15 articles describing different models of ECRS that used BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice, and different triggers/stimulants such as Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxin B (SEB) + Ovalbumin (OVA); House Dust Mite (HDM) ± Ovalbumin (OVA); and Aspergillus oryzae Protease (AP) + Ovalbumin (OVA). OVA associated with SEB was the commonest protocol to induce ECRS in both BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice, and it produced a robust response of eosinophilic nasal polyps in both. AP + OVA protocol also led to a good ECRS response. The other models were not considered adequate to produce eosinophilic polyps in mice. Conclusion: In conclusion, OVA associated with SEB seems to produce the most robust eosinophilic sinonasal inflammation.

Linfoma y granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeitis (síndrome de Churg-Strauss): reporte de un caso / Lymphoma and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome): case report

Diversas etiologías pueden desencadenar a las vasculitis ANCA (anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilo). Entre ellas se encuentran las neoplasias hematológicas, como los linfomas no Hodgkin, que pueden asociarse con diferentes autoanticuerpos y manifestaciones reumatológicas. Es esencial sospechar estas causas secundarias si la enfermedad tiene un curso crónico con respuesta tórpida al tratamiento. En el presente artículo se reporta un caso inusual de asociación entre granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeitis y linfoma no Hodgkin de bajo grado de agresividad.

Diverse etiologies can trigger ANCA (antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) vasculitis. These include hematological neoplasms, such as non-Hodgkin lymphomas, which can be associated with different autoantibodies and rheumatological manifestations. These secondary causes are essential to suspect if the disease has a chronic course with a poor response to treatment. In this article, we report an unusual association between eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis and low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Seguridad de la endoscopia y biopsia esofágica en un paciente con esofagitis eosinofílica y enfermedad de Von Willebrand / Safety of esophageal endoscopy and biopsy in a patient with eosinophilic esophagitis and Von Willebrand disease

La esofagitis eosinofílica (EoE) es una enfermedad causada por una respuesta inmune frente a antígenos alimentarios en contacto con la mucosa esofágica; por su parte, la enfermedad de Von Willebrand (EVW) es el trastorno hemorrágico hereditario más común en los seres humanos. La característica central de todos los tipos de EVW, es la presencia de cantidades reducidas o de formas anormales del factor de Von Willebrand (FVW) en el torrente sanguíneo. Debido a que no se han reportado casos previos de EVW tipo 2A asociada a EoE, se describe este caso clínico con el objetivo principal de dar a conocer el hallazgo casual de estas dos patologías, la seguridad de la evaluación por endoscopia de vías digestivas altas y el pronóstico de posibles complicaciones

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a disease caused by an immune response against food antigens in contact with the esophageal mucosa; alternatively, Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in humans. The central characteristic of all types of VWD is the presence of reduced amounts or abnormal forms of VWF in the bloodstream. Since no previous cases of VWD type 2A associated to EoE have been reported, this clinical case is described with the main objective to present the coincidental finding of these two pathologies, the safety of the evaluation by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the prognosis of possible complications

Fibrosis Endomiocárdica: Presentación de Caso Clínico y Revisión de la literatura / Endomyocardial Fibrosis: Case Report and Literature Review

La fibrosis endomiocárdica (FEM) es una enfermedad rara y potencialmente letal caracterizada por la infiltración de tejido fibrótico en el endocardio y miocardio. Es más comúnmente observada en regiones tropicales y subtropicales, y se cree que es causada por la combinación de factores genéticos y ambientales. Su patogénesis aún no está del todo clara, pero es posible que esté relacionada con una respuesta inmune anormal ante múltiples estímulos, incluyendo infecciones virales, parásitos, trastornos hematológicos y deficiencias alimentarias. Esta condición es una de las principales manifestaciones de los síndromes hipereosinofílicos (SHE). Pese a los avances en el manejo, el pronóstico de los pacientes con FEM persiste siendo pobre, con un alto riesgo de recurrencia y de progresión hacia insuficiencia cardiaca. A continuación, presentaremos el caso de un paciente joven con un cuadro de insuficiencia cardiaca de predominio derecho en el contexto de un síndrome hipereosinofílico de base, en quien se establece el diagnóstico de FEM según lo documentado en las imágenes cardiacas.

Endomyocardial Fibrosis: Case Report and Literature Review. Endomyocardial fibrosis (EMF) is a rare and potentially life-threatening cardiac disorder characterized by the infiltration of fibrotic tissue into the endocardium and myocardium of the heart. It is most seen in tropical and subtropical regions, and it is believed to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The exact pathogenesis of EMF is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to an abnormal immune response to various stimuli, including viral infections, parasites, and dietary deficiencies. This condition is one of the main manifestations of hypereosinophilic syndromes. Despite advances in treatment, the prognosis for patients with EMF remains poor, with a high risk of recurrence and progression to heart failure. We present a case of a young male patient with an episode of right heart failure in the context of a chronic hypereosinophilic syndrome in which the diagnosis of EMF is made with the aid of cardiovascular imaging.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis And Chronic Cough Originated Beyond The Respiratory Tree

Background Chronic cough (CC) as the main symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), associated or not with other signs of esophageal dysfunction, has been poorly studied. Research the frequency of CC symptoms of EoEObjectives and their characteristics. Comorbidities, adherence to treatment, and evolution. An observational,Methods prospective study. Variables: Epidemiological, demographics, atopic, endoscopic, histological, comorbidities, symptoms, time of evolution, endoscopic phenotype, respiratory function tests. Adherence, response to treatment, complications, and evolution Only 20 patients (5%) with EoE had CC. The mean age:24 years, male 85%. TheResults time of evolution: 5 years. CC: recurrent during the day (never at night), worsened with food intake (during or after), improved when remission EoE and reappeared when active EoE. There were a few severe complications. Conclusion Although the frequency of CC as a symptom in EoE is low, it must be considered, especially if it appears in food intake.

Morphological and pathological changes of Eustachian tube mucosa in an animal model of eosinophilic otitis media / Alterações morfológicas e patológicas da mucosa da tuba auditiva em um modelo animal de otite média eosinofílica

Abstract Introduction Eosinophilic otitis media is an intractable otitis media and a fairly common middle ear disease. However, the pathogenesis of eosinophilic otitis media is obscure. Objective To observe the pathological and ultrastructural changes of the Eustachian tube mucosal epithelium in rats with eosinophilic otitis media and further explore the pathogenesis of eosinophilic otitis media. Methods Animals were intraperitoneally injected with 2000 mg ovalbumin and 100 mg aluminum hydroxide (alum) on day 0, followed by 100 mg ovalbumin and 100 mg alum injection on days 7 and 14. Next they were topically boosted by daily application of 100 mg ovalbumin solution via nasal drip and intratympanic injection of 0.1 mL ovalbumin (1000 mg/mL) in the right ear (group A, n = 80) and 0.1 mL saline in the left ear as control (group B, n = 80) starting on day 21 and continuing for 14 days. The temporal bones were dissected on the 35th, 38th, 41st and 43rd day separately under anesthesia. Scanning electron microscopy, hematoxylin-eosin and toluidine blue staining were used to observe the pathological and morphological changes of Eustachian tube mucosa stained samples. Moreover, inflammatory cells and cilia were counted. Results The epithelium of the Eustachian tube in group A was swollen and thickened. The cilia were arranged in a disorderly manner and partially detached. Eosinophils infiltrated the submucosal layer of the Eustachian tube, and their number increased significantly compared with that in group B (p< 0.05). Simultaneously, mast cell degranulation was observed in group A. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the cilia were lodged and gathered along the whole length of Eustachian tube in group A. Ciliated cell density was significantly lower than that in Group B (p< 0.01). Conclusion In the eosinophilic otitis media model, allergy caused significant changes in pathology and morphology of the Eustachian tube mucosa, affecting the normal function of the Eustachian tube which played an important role in the occurrence and development of eosinophilic otitis media.

Resumo Introdução A otite média eosinofílica é uma doença relativamente comum de orelha média; entretanto, sua patogênese é ainda obscura, assim como o tratamento. Objetivo Observar as alterações histopatológicas e ultraestruturais do epitélio da mucosa da tuba auditiva em ratos com otite média eosinofílica e investigar a sua patogênese. Método Os animais foram injetados intraperitonealmente com 2.000 mg de ovalbumina e 100 mg de hidróxido de alumínio (alúmen) no dia 0, seguido por 100 mg de ovalbumina e 100 mg de injeção de alúmen nos dias 7 e 14. Em seguida, receberam um reforço tópico através de uma aplicação diária de 100 mg da solução por gotejamento nasal e injeção intratimpânica de 0,1 mL de ovalbumina (1000 mg/mL) na orelha direita (grupo A, n = 80) e 0,1 mL de solução salina na orelha esquerda como controle (grupo B, n = 80), começou no dia 21 e continuou por 14 dias. Os ossos temporais foram dissecados nos dias 35, 38, 41 e 43 separadamente sob anestesia. Foram usadas microscopia eletrônica de varredura e coloração com hematoxilina-eosina e azul de toluidina para observar as alterações histopatológicas e morfológicas das amostras coradas de mucosa da tuba auditiva. Além disso, células inflamatórias e cílios foram contados. Resultados O epitélio da tuba auditiva no grupo A estava edematoso e espessado. Os cílios estavam dispostos de forma desordenada e parcialmente destacados. Os eosinófilos infiltraram a camada submucosa da tuba auditiva e seu número aumentou significantemente em comparação ao grupo B (p < 0,05). Simultaneamente, degranulação dos mastócitos foi observado no grupo A. A microscopia eletrônica de varredura mostrou que os cílios estavam depositados e reunidos ao longo de todo o comprimento da tuba auditiva no grupo A. A densidade das células ciliadas foi significantemente menor do que no grupo B (p < 0,01). Conclusão No modelo de otite média eosinofílica, a alergia causou alterações significativas à histopatologia e na morfologia da mucosa da tuba auditiva, afetou a função normal dela, o que desempenhou um papel importante na ocorrência e no desenvolvimento da otite média eosinofílica.

Sputum Inflammatory Cells and their Impact on Asthma Control in Adults: A Prospective Study

Background: Asthma is broadly categorized as eosinophilic or noneosinophilic. Noneosinophilic asthma (NEA) can be paucigranulocytic asthma (PGA), mixed granulocytic asthma (MGA), or neutrophilic asthma (NeuA). A relationship between the cytological type of inflammation and response to treatment with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in asthma has been of great interest. The objective of the current study was to predict the control of asthma according to sputum inflammatory cells. Materials and methods: A total of 58 patients were evaluated. Sputum was induced and sent for cytological examination. Patients were prescribed controller and reliever medications as per the GINA guidelines. Accordingly, subjects were divided into eosinophilic, neutrophilic, mixed granulocytic, and paucigranulocytic asthma. The response to treatment was classified as poorly controlled based on ACT score. Results: Out of 58 patients, eosinophilic asthma (EA) was 24% and noneosinophilic 76% (NeuA 17%, MGA 23%, and PGA 36%). After treatment, 14 (24.13%) patients were found poorly controlled. Poor control was in 5.17% among EA and 18.97% in NEA phenotypes. Poor control was significantly higher in females, NeuA, and MGA. Peripheral eosinophilia affects control of asthma adversely. Conclusion: Pretreatment sputum analysis can predict the asthma control and steroid responsiveness. Mixed granulocytic asthma and NeuA are difficult to control, and PGA is the best responder.

Perfil de Pacientes com Esofagite Eosinofílica e Associação com Doenças Atópicas: uma Série de Casos / Profile of Patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Association with Atopic Diseases: a Case Series

Introdução: A esofagite eosinofílica (EEo) é uma doença que está ganhando cada vez mais destaque no cotidiano de gastroenterologistas e alergologistas, visto que sua prevalência vem aumentando e, hoje, é considerada a segunda causa mais comum de esofagite crônica, atrás da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico. A identificação do perfil clínico desses pacientes, da presença de outras doenças atópicas relacionadas ao quadro e o conhecimento dos principais arsenais terapêuticos disponíveis são de grande importância, pois é considerada uma doença relativamente recente, crônica e recidivante, para a qual ainda existem muitas controvérsias na literatura atual. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospectivo, com coleta de dados secundários e abordagem quantitativa. Mediante prontuários de pacientes diagnosticados com EEo atendidos em consultório privado do sul de Santa Catarina de 2015 a 2018. Resultados: Foram incluídos 11 pacientes, com predomínio do sexo feminino (54,5%), idades entre 19 e 34 anos (90,1%), possuindo estado civil solteiro (66,7%). Entre as atopias associadas, ressaltaram-se a alergia alimentar (90,9%) e alergia a animais (54,5%). A maioria com história familiar de manifestações atópicas (81,8%). Quando avaliadas as comorbidades prevalentes, houve predomínio de intolerância à lactose (25%). Realizam algum tratamento para a EEo (100%), predominando uso exclusivo de Inibidores da Bomba de Prótons (IBP) (27,3%). Conclusão: Perfil dos pacientes com EEo atendidos em um consultório privado na região de Criciúma/SC é de mulheres com idade entre 19-34 anos, solteiras, apresentando atopias, principalmente alergia alimentar e alergia a animais, com história familiar de atopias, possuindo intolerância à lactose concomitante e em tratamento para EEo com IBP.

Introduction: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a disease progressively gaining prominence in the daily lives of gastroenterologists and allergists since its prevalence has been increasing and, today, it is considered the second most common cause of chronic esophagitis, after the gastroesophageal reflux disease. The identification of the clinical and epidemiological profile of these patients, the presence of other atopic diseases related to the condition, and knowledge of the main therapeutic arsenals available is of great importance since it is considered a relatively recent, chronic, and recidivating disease, for which there are still many controversies in the current literature. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study, with secondary data collection and a quantitative approach. Using medical records of patients diagnosed with EoE seen in private practice in southern Santa Catarina from 2015 to 2018. Results: 11 patients were included, with a predominance of females (54.5%), ages between 19 and 34 years (90.1%), and most single (66.7%). Among the associated atopic manifestations, food allergy (90.9%) and animal allergy (54.5%) stood out. Most had a family history of atopic manifestations (81.8%). After evaluating the prevalent comorbidities, the study found a predominance of lactose intolerance (25%). They underwent some treatment for EoE (100%), predominantly the exclusive use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (27.3%). Conclusion: The epidemiological profile of patients with EoE seen in private practice in the Criciúma region are women aged 19-34 years, single, presenting atopic diseases, mainly food allergy and animal allergy, with a family history of atopic diseases, concomitant lactose intolerance, and being treated for EoE with PPIs.

Granuloma eosinofílico cervical en el adolescente: reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Cervical eosinophilic granuloma in adolescents: case report and literature review

INTRODUCCIÓN El granuloma eosinofílico (GE) es una patología infrecuente, sobre todo en adultos, que puede afectar la columna cervical. A pesar de la vasta literatura, esta enfermedad afecta principalmente a la población infantil, y no hay un consenso sobre el manejo en adultos. Con el objetivo de aportar conocimiento respecto a esta patología poco frecuente, se presenta un caso clínico de GE cervical en un paciente de 16 años, a quien se trató de manera conservadora, con buenos resultados y retorno completo a sus actividades. CASO CLÍNICO Un hombre de 16 años, seleccionado de rugby, consultó por dolor cervical axial persistente y nocturno de 6 semanas de evolución, sin trauma evidente. Al examen, destacó dolor a la compresión axial sin compromiso neurológico asociado. Los exámenes de tomografía computarizada (TC) y resonancia magnética (RM) revelaron lesión lítica en el cuerpo de C3 de características agresivas, de presentación monostótica en tomografía por emisión de positrones-tomografía computada (TEP-TC) compatible con tumor primario vertebral. Se decidió realizar biopsia percutánea bajo TC, para definir el diagnóstico y manejo adecuado, la cual fue compatible con células de Langerhans. Al no presentar clínica ni imagenología de inestabilidad ósea evidente o compromiso neurológico, se manejó con tratamiento conservador, inmovilización cervical, analgesia oral, y seguimiento estrecho. A los cuatro meses de evolución, se presentó con una TC con cambios reparativos del cuerpo vertebral y sin dolor, y logró retomar sus actividad habituales. CONCLUSIONES El diagnóstico de GE es infrecuente a esta edad, y se debe plantear entre diagnósticos diferenciales de lesiones líticas agresivas primarias vertebrales. Es necesario el uso de imágenes, y la biopsia vertebral es fundamental para confirmar el diagnóstico. Su manejo va a depender de la sintomatología, del compromiso de estructuras vecinas, y de la estabilidad de la vértebra afectada. El manejo conservador con seguimiento clínico e imagenológico es una opción viable.

INTRODUCTION Eosinophilic granuloma (EG) is a rare, tumor-like lesion, infrequently affecting the cervical spine, particularly in adults. Although vastly described in literature, this pathology mainly affects children, and there is still no consensus on its treatment in older patients. With the goal of contributing to increase the knowledge regarding this infrequent pathology, we present a case of a C3 eosinophilic granuloma in a 16-year-old patient, who was treated conservatively, with good results, including complete return to his previous activities. CLINICAL CASE a 16-year-old male, elite rugby player, presented with a history of persistent neck pain, mainly at night, with no previous trauma. Upon physical examination, he reported neck pain with axial compression of the head, without neurological impairment. Both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan revealed an aggressive lytic lesion in the C3 vertebral body, a with monostotic presentation on positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) compatible with a primary spine tumor. A CT-guided percutaneous biopsy was obtained to establish the diagnosis and provide the proper management. The results were compatible with Langerhans cells. As he presented no symptoms or imaging findings of evident bone instability, as well as no neurological impairment, the patient was treated conservatively, with a cervical brace, oral pain medication and close followup. A CT obtained after four months of treatment showed reparative changes of the C3 vertebral body; at this point, the patient reported no neck pain, so he was able to return to his previous activities. CONCLUSIONS Although an EG is rare at this age, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of primary vertebral aggressive lytic lesions. Imaging and a vertebral biopsy are paramount to confirm the diagnosis. The treatment modality depends on the symptoms, the involvement of adjacent structures, and the stability of the affected vertebra. Conservative management including clinical and imaging followup is a viable option.

Eosinophilic meningitis due to A. Cantonensis revealed at autopsy

Parasitic infection of the central nervous system could be fatal, and its incidence is rising due to increasing worldwide travel. Amongst the various nematodes, Angiostrongylus contonensis is the commonest and causes eosinophilic meningitis. It is a zoonotic disease produced due to the ingestion of raw or undercooked snails or slugs. Most cases of angiostrongyliasis are mild and self-limiting, but death can occur in severe cases lacking timely and proper treatment. Very few autopsy cases of A. cantonensis are reported. We present the case of a 32-year-old mentally challenged orphan male with eosinophilic meningitis at autopsy.