Retinopatía del prematuro: actualización en detección y tratamiento / Retinopathy of the premature: update in screening and treatment

Resumen: La Retinopatía del Prematuro (RDP) es una alteración proliferativa de los vasos sanguíneos de la retina inmadura, que afecta principalmente a los recién nacidos de muy bajo peso (RNMBP) y de menor edad gestacional. El objetivo de esta revisión es describir a qué niño se debe efectuar la detección de esta enfermedad y analizar los recientes avances en su tratamiento. La detección de RDP está dirigida principalmente a los RNMBP y a < de 32 semanas de edad gestacional, pero también se ha propuesto un criterio según edad postmenstrual. Además de la fotocoagulación con láser, tratamiento estándar en la actualidad, se han desarrollado nuevas terapias, como los agentes anti factor de crecimiento vas cular endotelial (VEGF), que se han utilizado exitosamente en la retinopatía umbral, especialmente localizada en zona I, con menos efectos adversos y mejores resultados oculares a futuro. que la fo tocoagulación con láser. En los últimos años, se han realizado ensayos clínicos con propranolol oral como tratamiento de la RDP, principalmente en la etapa pre-umbral (etapa 2 o 3 en zona II ó III). Este bloqueador beta-adrenérgico puede prevenir la progresión de la retinopatía en RNMBP de etapa pre- umbral a umbral y/o evitar la necesidad de terapias invasivas, como la fotocoagulación con láser o la administración intravítrea de agentes anti-VEGF. La fotocoagulación con láser continúa siendo el tra tamiento de elección en la RDP. Los agentes anti-VEGF y el propranolol oral, evitarían la progresión de esta patología de etapa pre-umbral a umbral, y podrían complementar el tratamiento de la RDP.

Abstract: Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a proliferative disorder of the blood vessels of the immature retina, which affects mainly very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBW). The objective of this review is to describe to which infant the screening examination of this disease should be performed and to analy ze the recent advances in the treatment of this disease, which have emerged in the last decade. The detection of this disease is mainly focused on VLBW infants and newborns < 32 weeks of gestational age. In addition to laser photocoagulation, standard treatment today, new therapies have appeared, such as the anti-VEGF agents, which have been successfully used in the threshold ROP, especially located in zone I. This therapy is less harmful than laser photocoagulation and with better ocular results in the future. In recent years, oral propranolol has been used as a treatment for ROP in clinical trials, mainly in the pre-threshold stage (stage 2 or 3 in zone II or III). This drug is a beta-adrenergic blocker that can prevent the progression of retinopathy in pre-threshold to threshold stage and/or avoid the need for invasive therapies, such as laser photocoagulation or intravitreal administration of anti-VEGF agents. Laser photocoagulation continues to be the standard treatment for ROP. New treatments have emerged for ROP, such as anti-VEGF agents and oral propranolol, which could pre vent the progression of this disease from the pre-threshold to the threshold stage.

Insuficiencia cardíaca en pediatría / Heart failure in children

La Insuficiencia Cardíaca (IC) es un síndrome clínico que epresenta una de las mayores causas de mobi-mortalidad en pacientes pediátricos. Refleja la incapacidad del corazón para satisfacer las necesidades metabólicas del organismo, incluido el crecimiento y el ejercicio. En el niño la causa más frecuente es la cardiopatía congénita. Otras causas las miocardiopatía, las miocarditis, las arritmias y las causas no cardíacas como: insuficiencia renal, hipertensión arterial, enfermedades pulmonares crónicas, anemia, sepsis, hiper e hipotiroidismo, cardiotoxicidad, etc. Clásicamente el tratamiento estaba dirigido a mejorar la contractilidad y evitar la retención hidrosalina con digital y diuréticos. En la actualidad, dado a la mejor comprensión del mecanismo fisiopatológico, en los últimos años, el tratamiento se centra en el control de los sistemas renina-angiotensina (SRAA) y nervioso simpático. En los casos de IC descompensada que presentan síndrome de bajo gasto cardíaco que no responde a la terapia médica, previo al trasplante cardíaco, está indicado el soporte mecánico (AU)

Heart failure (HF) reflects the inability of the heart to meet the metabolic needs of the body, including growth and exercise. In the child, the most common cause is congenital heart disease. Other causes are cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, arrhythmias, and non-cardiac causes, such as renal failure, high blood pressure, chronic pulmonary diseases, anemia, sepsis, hyper- and hypothyroidism, cardiotoxicity. Classically, the treatment aimed at improving contractility and avoiding salt and fluid retention using digitalis and diuretics. Given the current better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism, over the past years treatment has focused on the control of renin-angiotensin (RAAS) and sympathetic nervous systems. In cases of decompensated HF with low cardiac output syndrome not responding to medical therapy, prior to cardiac transplantation mechanical support is indicated (AU)

A teenage patient with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, a splenorenal shunt, and congenital hepatic fibrosis: a case report / Doença renal policística autossômica recessiva, shunt esplenorrenal e fibrose hepática congênita em adolescente: relato de caso

ABSTRACT A 16-year-old female patient previously diagnosed with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) presented with acute bilateral pneumonia, upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by ruptured esophageal varices, ascites, and lower limb edema. She required intensive care and an endoscopic procedure to treat the gastrointestinal bleeding. The analysis of the differential diagnosis for chronic liver disease indicated she had a spontaneous splenorenal shunt. Ultrasound-guided biopsy revealed the patient had cirrhosis, as characteristically seen in individuals with ARPKD. She had no symptoms at discharge and was referred for review for a combined transplant.

RESUMO Relato de caso de uma paciente adolescente de 16 anos de idade com diagnóstico prévio de doença renal policística autossômica recessiva (DRPAR), que apresentou quadro agudo de pneumonia bilateral e hemorragia digestiva alta por ruptura de varizes esofágicas, bem como ascite e edema de membros inferiores. Necessitou de estabilização clínica intensiva e tratamento endoscópico do sangramento digestivo. Após investigação dos diagnósticos diferenciais da hepatopatia crônica, diagnosticou-se shunt esplenorrenal espontâneo, e realizou-se biópsia hepática guiada por ecografia com diagnóstico de cirrose, espectro típico da DRPAR. Recebeu alta hospitalar assintomática e foi encaminhada para avaliação de transplante duplo.

Compliance with the Prescription of Antihypertensive Medications and Blood Pressure Control in Primary Care / Conformidade da Prescrição Anti-Hipertensiva e Controle da Pressão Arterial na Atenção Básica

Abstract Background: Hypertension is the most prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and its proper control can prevent the high morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. Objective: To assess the degree of compliance of antihypertensive prescriptions with the VI Brazilian Guidelines on Hypertension and the blood pressure control rate in primary care. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted between August 2011 and November 2012, including 332 adults ≥ 45 years registered in the Family Doctor Program in Niteroi and selected randomly. The analysis included the prescribed antihypertensive classes, doses, and frequencies, as well as the blood pressure (BP) of the individuals. Results: The rate of prescription compliance was 80%. Diuretics were the most prescribed medications, and dual therapy was the most used treatment. The most common non-compliances were underdosing and underfrequencies. The BP goal in all cases was < 140/90 mmHg, except for diabetic patients, in whom the goal was set at < 130/80 mmHg. Control rates according to these goals were 44.9% and 38.6%, respectively. There was no correlation between prescription compliance and BP control. Conclusions: The degree of compliance was considered satisfactory. The achievement of the targets was consistent with national and international studies, suggesting that the family health model is effective in BP management, although it still needs improvement.

Resumo Fundamento: A hipertensão arterial é o fator de risco mais prevalente para a doença cardiovascular e seu controle adequado pode prevenir a elevada morbi-mortalidade associada a esta doença. Objetivo: Avaliar o grau de conformidade das prescrições de anti-hipertensivos com as VI Diretrizes Brasileiras de Hipertensão e a taxa de controle pressórico na atenção básica. Métodos: Estudo transversal conduzido entre agosto de 2011 e novembro de 2012, incluindo 332 adultos ≥ 45 anos cadastrados no Programa Médico de Família de Niterói e selecionados aleatoriamente. Foram analisadas as classes de anti-hipertensivos prescritos, suas doses e frequências, bem como a pressão arterial (PA) dos indivíduos. Resultados: A taxa de conformidade das prescrições foi de 80%. Diuréticos foram as medicações mais prescritas e a terapia dupla foi o tratamento mais utilizado. As não conformidades mais comuns foram subdoses e subfrequências. A meta de PA para todos os casos foi < 140/90 mmHg, exceto para diabéticos, que foi < 130/80 mmHg. As taxas de controle de acordo com essas metas foram de 44,9% e 38,6%, respectivamente. Não houve correlação entre conformidade da prescrição e controle pressórico. Conclusões: O grau de conformidade foi considerado satisfatório. O alcance das metas foi compatível com estudos nacionais e internacionais, sugerindo que o modelo de saúde da família é efetivo no manejo da PA, embora ainda necessite aprimoramento. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2017; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Mitral valve prolapse in pregnancy

Abstract Mitral valve prolapse is a benign condition. Mitral regurgitation is only complicated in patients with severe mitral valve prolapse. Women with mitral valve prolapse in the absence of other cardiovascular disorders tolerate pregnancy well and do not develop remarkable cardiac complications. Nevertheless, serious complications of mitral valve prolapse, including arrhythmia, infective endocarditis and cerebral ischemic events, can be present in pregnancy. Debates remain with regard to the use of prophylactic antibiotics and β-blockers in the pregnant women with mitral valve prolapse. The prognosis of the pregnant patients might be closely related to the pathological and (or) functional changes of the mitral valve. Non-myxomatous mitral valve prolapse poses no or little obstetric risks in terms of pregnancy, labor and neonatal complications; whereas myxomatous mitral valve prolapse is a major etiology of valvular heart disease in women of childbearing age. In the pregnant patients with mitral valve prolapse progressing into major complications, surgical interventions are considered. Medicinal treatment of such patients with β-blockers should be a concern for the fetal safety.

Seguridad de los beta 2 agonistas (ß2a) en asma bronquial / [Safety of beta-agonists in asthma].

Beta 2 agonist bronchodilators (ß2A) are very important part in the pharmacotherapy of bronchial asthma, a disease that progresses in the world in an epidemic way. The ß2A are prescribed to millions of people around the world, therefore the safety aspects is of public interest. Short-Acting ß2 Agonists (SABAs), such as albuterol inhaler, according to current evidence, confirming its safety when used as a quick-relief or rescue medication. The long-acting ß2 agonists (LABAs) The long-acting bronchodilators ß2A (Long acting ß2 Agonists or LABAs) are used associated with inhaled corticosteroids as controller drugs for asthma exacerbationsaccess, for safety reasons LABAs are not recommended for use as monotherapy.

Tormenta eléctrica en síndrome de Brugada tratada exitosamente con infusión de isoproterenol / Electrical storm in Brugada syndrome successfully treated with isoproterenol. Report of a case

We report a 22-year-old male who experienced several episodes of syncope within a timeframe of few hours. In the emergency room, multiple ventricular fibrillation episodes where documented along with a type 1 Brugada ECG pattern. Isoproterenol in continuous infusion was started, normalizing the ECG and avoiding further arrhythmia recurrences. The patient was implanted with an automated defibrillator and discharged 3 days after admission.

Effects of an outpatient education program in patients with uncontrolled asthma / Efeitos de um programa educativo ambulatorial em pacientes com asma não controlada

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of an outpatient education program in patients with uncontrolled asthma. METHODS: This was an uncontrolled study evaluating an educational intervention and involving patients with uncontrolled asthma ≥ 14 years of age. The participants completed a questionnaire designed to assess the level of asthma control, the inhalation technique, and quality of life. All of the patients underwent pulmonary function testing, after which they participated in an education program consisting of one 45-min face-to-face session, followed by phone interviews at two, four, and eight weeks. The participants were reevaluated after three months. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients completed the study. There was a significant improvement in the level of asthma control (p < 0.001). Of the 63 patients, 28 (44.4%) and 6 (9.5%) were classified as having partially controlled asthma and controlled asthma, respectively. The mean FEV1 was 63.0 ± 20.0% and 68.5 ± 21.2% of the predicted value prior to and after the educational intervention, respectively (p = 0.002), and all of the quality of life scores improved (p < 0.05 for all). The same was true for the proportion of patients prior to and after the educational intervention using the proper inhalation technique when using metered dose inhalers (15.4% vs. 46.2%; p = 0.02) and dry powder inhalers (21.3% vs. 76.6%; p < 0.001). The logistic regression analysis revealed that an incorrect inhalation technique identified during the first evaluation was independently associated with a favorable response to the educational intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that an outpatient education program for asthma patients improves the level of asthma control, lung function parameters, and quality of life. An incorrect inhalation technique identified during the first evaluation was predictive ...

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos de um programa educativo ambulatorial em pacientes com asma não controlada. MÉTODOS: Estudo não controlado, avaliando uma intervenção educacional e envolvendo pacientes com idade ≥ 14 anos com asma não controlada. Os participantes responderam a um questionário para avaliar o grau de controle da asma, a qualidade de vida e a técnica inalatória e foram submetidos a testes de função pulmonar. A seguir, participaram do programa educativo, que consistia de uma sessão inicial de 45 min e de entrevistas telefônicas em duas, quatro e oito semanas. Os participantes foram reavaliados após três meses. RESULTADOS: Completaram o estudo 63 pacientes. Houve melhora significativa no grau de controle da asma (p < 0,001). Dos 63 pacientes, 28 (44,4%) e 6 (9,5%) passaram a apresentar asma parcialmente controlada e controlada, respectivamente. Antes e depois a intervenção educacional, a média de VEF1 foi, respectivamente, 63,0 ± 20,0% do previsto e 68,5 ± 21,2% do previsto (p = 0,002), e todos os escores de qualidade de vida melhoraram (p < 0,05 para todos). O mesmo ocorreu com a proporção de pacientes com técnica inalatória adequada no uso de inalador pressurizado (15,4% vs. 46,2%; p = 0,02) e de dispositivo de pó (21,3% vs. 76,6%; p < 0,001). A análise de regressão logística identificou que a técnica inalatória incorreta na primeira avaliação estava independentemente associada com a resposta favorável à intervenção educativa. CONCLUSÕES: Este estudo sugere que um programa educativo ambulatorial resultou em uma melhora no grau de controle da asma, na função pulmonar e na qualidade de vida. A técnica inalatória incorreta na avaliação ...

DPOC - Sigla pequena para um problema enorme / COPD - Acronym short for a huge problem

A doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) é um grave problema de saúde e uma das principais causas de morte em todo o mundo. Dentre os vários fatores de risco de DPOC, o fumo e a exposição à queima de biomassa são os principais. Embora seja chamada de doença respiratória, não compromete apenas os pulmões: muitos pacientes apresentam diversas manifestações sistêmicas que amplificam a perda da capacidade funcional e da qualidade de vida. Além disso, a DPOC está associada a diversas outras comorbidades, tais como doenças cardiovasculares, osteoporose, diabetes e síndrome metabólica

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major health challenge and a leading cause of death worldwide. COPD has many risk factors, with exposition to smoke from biomass fuel and tobacco smoking being the most important ones. Although it is called a respiratory disease, COPD extends beyond the lung and many patients have several systemic manifestations that amplify the losses in functional capacity and in health-related quality of life. Besides, COPD is associated with several other diaseses, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome

Etiological diagnosis reduces the use of antibiotics in infants with bronchiolitis

OBJECTIVE: Acute bronchiolitis is a leading cause of infant hospitalization and is most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus. Etiological tests are not required for its diagnosis, but the influence of viral screening on the therapeutic approach for acute bronchiolitis remains unclear. METHODS: A historical cohort was performed to assess the impact of viral screening on drug prescriptions. The study included infants up to one year of age who were hospitalized for bronchiolitis. Virus screening was performed using immunofluorescence assays in nasopharyngeal aspirates. The clinical data were obtained from the patients' medical records. Therapeutic changes were considered to be associated with viral screening when made within 24 hours of the release of the results. RESULTS: The frequency of prescriptions for beta agonists, corticosteroids and antibiotics was high at the time of admission and was similar among the 230 patients. The diagnosis of pneumonia and otitis was associated with the introduction of antibiotics but did not influence antibiotics maintenance after the results of the virus screening were obtained. Changes in the prescriptions were more frequent for the respiratory syncytial virus patients compared to patients who had negative viral screening results (p =0.004), especially the discontinuation of antibiotics (p<0.001). The identification of respiratory syncytial virus was associated with the suspension of antibiotics (p= 0.003), even after adjusting for confounding variables (p = 0.004); however, it did not influence the suspension of beta-agonists or corticosteroids. CONCLUSION: The identification of respiratory syncytial virus in infants with bronchiolitis was independently associated with the discontinuation of antibiotics during hospitalization.

Efeitos macrovasculares, microvasculares e interação leucócito-endotélio, na endotoxemia experimental após o uso de Dobutamina com e sem ressuscitação volêmica / Macrovascular and microvascular effects and leukocyte-endothelial interaction in experimental endotoxemia after use of dobutamine with and without volume ressuscitation

Na sepse, o mecanismo desencadeador de morte é a disfunção múltipla de órgãos e sistemas. Com isso a microcirculação é considerada o motor na patogênese da sepse. A perfusão microcirculatória representa um dos principais objetivos para melhorar as taxas de sobrevida. Uma vez reconhecida a síndrome séptica, o protocolo clínico estabelece o uso de fluidoterapia com salina, de forma vigorosa na primeira hora e seguida de suporte inotrópico com Dobutamina. A partir daí foi levantada a hipótese das drogas β-agonistas serem relevantes na recuperação da microcirculação, antes mesmo de seu conhecido papel na recuperação do choque cardiogênico. Assim, estudar o papel da Dobutamina, um β-agonista, na resposta adrenérgica em situação de sepse se faz necessário e urgente e o entendimento de sua ação, associada à reposição volêmica, foi objeto deste estudo. Foram usados no presente estudo, 78 hamsters, induzida a endotoxemia com LPS (2mg/kg/de massa de peso corporal) e divididos em 9 grupos: controle (n=10), endotóxico(n=10), endotóxico tratados com Dobutamina na dose de 5 e 15 μg /kg/min (n=10), Isoproterenol(n=10), ressuscitação volêmica (n=10) e ressuscitação volêmica associada à Dobutamina 5 (n=10) e 15 μg/kg/min (n=4) e Isoproterenol (n=4). Foram comparados os resultados de recuperação da densidade capilar funcional ao longo do tempo entre os grupos, e obteve-se resultado estatisticamente significativo no grupo em que se usa Dobutamina de 5μg/kg/min associada à ressuscitação volêmica p< 0,05. Em conclusão este estudo mostra que o papel da ressuscitação volêmica é crucial na resposta da microcirculação para melhorar a densidade capilar funcional, que a velocidade da hemácia capilar tem relação direta com a melhora na perfusão tecidual e que a associação de recuperação volêmica com solução salina e Dobutamina na dose de 5 μg /kg /min melhora significativamente sua resposta e melhora a perfusão.

uring sepsis the mechanism responsible for death is multiple dysfunctions of organs and systems and therefore the microcirculation is considered the motor in the pathogenesis of sepsis and microcirculatory perfusion represents one of the main objectives to improve survival rate. Once one recognizes the septic syndrome, the clinical protocol establishes the use of fluid therapy with physiological saline, in a vigorous way, in the first hour followed by inotropic support with dobutamine. With these facts in mind, our hypothesis is that β-agonist drugs are relevant for microcirculatory recuperation, even before their role was known in the recuperation of cardiogenic shock. In this way, to study the role of dobutamine, a β-agonist, in the adrenergic response in sepsis is needed and urgent. The understanding of its action associated to volume resuscitation was the aim of our study. Seventy-eight male hamsters were used in our study, endotoxemia being induced with LPS (2 mg/kg body weight), divided in 9 groups: control (n=10), endotoxic (n=10), endotoxic treated with dobutamine in the concentrations of 5 and 15 μg/kg/min (n=10, each), isoproterenol (n=10), volume resuscitation associated to dobutamine 5 μg/kg/min (n=10), 15 μg/kg/min (n=4), isoproterenol (n=4) or not (n=10). The microcirculation was observed in the dorsal window chamber and the results compared the recuperation of function capillary density with time and the group treated with dobutamine 5 μg/kg/min associated to volume resuscitation showed a statistically significant improvement (p<0.05) of it. In conclusion, this study has shown that volume resuscitation plays a crucial role in the microcirculatory response in terms of improvement of functional capillary density, the velocity of red blood cells in the capillary has a direct relationship with the improvement of tissue perfusion and the association of volume resuscitation with physiological saline and dobutamine 5 μg/kg/min elicits ...

Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Asthmatics with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease / 대한소화기학회지

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in asthma patients. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy improves symptoms of asthma in some patients. The objective of this study was to investigate endoscopic findings of GERD in asthma patients and to assess the effect of gastric acid suppression with the PPIs on symptom improvement and pulmonary function. METHODS: From 105 consecutive patients with GERD symptoms during follow up for asthma, 45 patients were enrolled. Patients enrolled to this study were asked about GERD symptoms before and after treating with PPI. Endoscopic findings were described according to Los Angeles classification. The improvement of asthma symptoms and follow-up pulmonary function test were investigated after administration of PPIs. RESULTS: Esophageal symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux were present in 25 patients (55.6%), and patients without esophageal symptoms were 20 (44.4%). The degree of endoscopic abnormality was not significantly different between groups with or without esophageal symptoms. The improvement of symptoms was seen in 44 patients (97.8%) except 1 patient after administration of PPIs. The number of patients classified to the low-dose group was 7 patients (15.6%) and that of patients classified to the standard-dose group was 38 patients (84.4%). The follow-up pulmonary function test, peak expiratory flow rate (L/sec) was improved in 3 patients (3 of 7, 42.9%) of the low-dose group, and in 24 patients (24 of 38, 63.2%) of the standard-dose group. The improvement of ventilatory function was not significantly different according to dose of PPIs. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with PPIs is expected to improve subjective symptoms and ventilatory function in asthma patients.

Nifedipina comprimidos versus agonistas beta adrenergicos endovenosos para el tratamiento de la amenaza de parto prematura / Nifedipine tablets versus intravenous beta adrenergic agonists for the treatment of the threat of premature delivery

Manejo farmacológico seguro y eficaz de la amenaza del parto prematuro en la Provincia de Neuquén. \r\nSe realizó una evaluación de tecnología para responder a la siguiente pregunta de investigación: En mujeres embarazadas con amenaza de parto prematuro, la Nifedipina comprimidos de 10 mg es superior al Ritodrine ampollas, en términos de efectividad y seguridad para la madre y el niño? Distintos investigadores realizaron búsquedas bibliográficas independientes en diversas bases de datos. Se encontraron revisiones sistemáticas y meta-análisis de múltiples estudios randomizados y controlados comparando la Nifedipina con los agonistas beta adrenérgicos. También se hallaron guías de práctica clínica y recomendaciones de la OMS. \r\nSe interpreta que hay suficiente evidencia científica que sostiene que la Nifedipina comprimidos es superior al Ritodrine endovenoso en términos de efectividad y seguridad para la madre y el niño. Estas diferencias son estadísticamente significativas, clínicamente relevantes, y los resultados muestran coherencia entre las \r\nmúltiples investigaciones realizadas en distintas poblaciones, por lo que el Comité Provincial de Medicamentos de Neuquén realiza la recomendación fuerte de incorporar a la Nifedipina comprimidos de 10 mg como medicamento de elección en la amenaza de parto prematuro, reemplazando al Ritodrine.

Efeito de curto prazo do tiotrópio nos portadores de DPOC em tratamento com B2-agonista / Short-term effect of tiotropium in COPD patients being treated with a B2 agonist

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto de curto prazo do uso de tiotrópio em pacientes com DPOC grave e muito grave com queixas de dispneia apesar do tratamento com outros broncodilatadores. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo incluindo pacientes com DPOC grave ou muito grave, com queixa de dispneia de pequenos esforços ou ao repouso. A cada 15 dias, o tratamento broncodilatador foi modificado: salmeterol, tiotrópio e associação salmeterol+tiotrópio. Ao final de cada regime, foram realizados testes de função pulmonar e teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6). Também foram avaliados o grau de dispneia e a capacidade de realização de atividades de vida diária. Para a avaliação das atividades de vida diária, foi utilizada a escala London Chest Activity of Daily Living (LCADL) validado para uso no Brasil. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 52 pacientes. Desses, 30 completaram o estudo. A introdução de tiotrópio como monoterapia resultou em uma melhora significativa (p < 0,05) da dispneia basal (média do escore da escala do Medical Research Council de 3,0 para 2,5) e ao final do TC6 (média do escore da escala de Borg de 6,1 para 4,5), e as diferenças foram significativas (p < 0,05 para ambos). O uso da associação salmeterol+tiotrópio resultou em um aumento significativo médio de 81 mL no VEF1 e na melhora de 5,7 pontos no escore da escala LCADL. CONCLUSÕES: A introdução de tiotrópio no tratamento de pacientes com DPOC grave a muito grave em uso de β2-agonistas de longa duração causa melhora na função pulmonar e alivio sintomático perceptível pelos pacientes a curto prazo. Esses resultados, obtidos em regime de atendimento de vida real, dão suporte ao uso da associação salmeterol+tiotrópio em protocolos de assistência específicos a esses pacientes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the short-term impact of tiotropium in patients with severe or very severe COPD who complain of dyspnea despite being currently treated with other bronchodilators. METHODS: A prospective study including patients with severe or very severe COPD and complaining of dyspnea at rest or on minimal exertion. Every 15 days, the bronchodilator treatment regimen was altered, from salmeterol to tiotropium to salmeterol+tiotropium. At the end of each regimen, pulmonary function tests and the six-minute walk test (6MWT) were performed. The degree of dyspnea and the ability to perform activities of daily living were also assessed. To evaluate patient ability to perform activities of daily living, we employed the London Chest Activity of Daily Living (LCADL), validated for use in Brazil. RESULTS: We evaluated 52 patients, 30 of whom completed the study. The use of tiotropium in isolation resulted in significant improvement in dyspnea at baseline (mean Medical Research Council scale score reduced from 3.0 to 2.5) and at the end of 6MWT (mean Borg scale score reduced from 6.1 to 4.5), and the differences were significant (p < 0.05 for both). The use of the salmeterol+tiotropium combination resulted in a significant (81 mL) increase in FEV1 and a 5.7 point improvement in the LCADL score. CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of tiotropium into the treatment of patients with severe or very severe COPD and using long-acting β2 agonists improves pulmonary function and provides symptomatic relief, as perceived by patients in the short term. These results, obtained under real life treatment conditions, support the use of the salmeterol+tiotropium combination in specific treatment protocols for these patients.

Beta 2 agonistas de acción prolongada en el tratamiento del asma en niños / Long acting beta 2 agonists in the treatment in children with asthma

A pesar del uso de corticoides inhalados en el tratamiento del asma bronquial existe un número variable de pacientes que no logran el control de su enfermedad. En estos casos, una de las alternativas terapéuticas propuesta por diversas guías clínicas es la adición de beta 2 agonistas de acción prolongada. Este articulo, revisa las características farmacológicas, posibles efectos adversos y las indicaciones en niños.

Prescribing medications and nutritional supplements for athletes / Prescripción de medicamentos y suplementos nutricionales para atletas

Athletes in the Caribbean depend heavily on their medical personnel to advise on the correct use of medications for their illnesses. Doctors, pharmacists and paramedical personnel that accompany or treat athletes must be knowledgeable of which commonly prescribed substances are banned in sport in order to correctly advise and treat the athletes under their care. The objective is to review the classes of banned substances, using common examples of medications, as defined by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in a simplistic manner in order to allow treating medical personnel to prescribe medications to athletes with the confidence ofnot violating doping regulations. The concept of Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) is introduced. Upper respiratory tract infections and asthma are discussed as they are both common in athletes. The use ofcorticosteroids and nutritional supplements are also discussed.

Los atletas del Caribe dependen considerablemente de su personal médico a la hora de recibir consejos para el uso correcto de medicamentos en caso de enfermedades. Los médicos, farmacéuticos y el personal paramédico que acompañan o tratan a los atletas deben conocer bien cuáles substancias prescritas comúnmente están prohibidas en el deporte, a fin de poder aconsejar y tratar correctamente a los atletas bajo su cuidado. El objetivo es revisar los tipos de substancias prohibidas, usando ejemplos comunes de medicamentos, tal como los define la Agencia Mundial de Antidopaje (AMA) de manera simple, de manera que el personal médico encargado del tratamiento pueda prescribir medicamentos a los atletas con la seguridad de no estar violando las regulaciones en cuanto al dopaje. Se introduce el concepto de exención por uso terapéutico. Se discuten las infecciones de las vías respiratorias superiores y el asma, por cuanto ambas son comunes en los atletas. Asimismo se discute el uso de los corticosteroides y los suplementos nutricionales.

A comparative study of efficacy of salbutamol via metered dose inhaler with volumatic spacer and via dry powder inhaler, easyhaler, to nebulization in mild to moderate severity acute asthma exacerbation in childhood.

BACKGROUND: Rapid-acting inhaled beta-2 agonist is standard treatment in acute asthmatic patient; it causes smooth muscle dilatation, gives rapid action and has less side effect compared with parenteral and oral form. There are many forms of inhaler including nebulization, MDI and DPI. In Thailand the most common form of salbutamol administration for the treatment of acute exacerbation of asthma is via nebulization. OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical effectiveness and side effects of salbutamol via MDI with Volumatic spacer and via DPI (Easyhaler), with nebulization in mild to moderate severity of acute asthma exacerbation in childhood. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A prospective, randomized controlled study in children, aged 5- 18-years-old with mild to moderate severe asthmatic attack, is done at the Emergency Room, QSNICH during October 2004 to February 2006. These children with acute asthma attack are randomly-assigned to 3 groups of different salbutamol administrations: group 1 via nebulization, group 2 via MDI with volumatic spacer and group 3 via DPI (Easyhaler). Salbutamol is administered and clinical responses: asthma score, oxygen saturation, PR, RR, BP and side effects (tremor and palpitation) are recorded at 0, 20, 40 and 60 minutes after the drug administrations. The drug will be repeated every 20 minutes for the total maximum of 3 times. If there is no clinical improvement, they will be admitted to the hospital for further management. RESULTS: There are 54 asthmatic children, 35 male (64.8%) and 19 female (35.2%). Their mean age is 8.4 +/- 2.3 years. There are 18patients in each group. There is no significant difference in efficacy of salbutamol among the 3 groups as measured by asthma score, O2 saturation, PR, RR and BP Tremor are equally observed in all 3 groups (5.5%) while palpitation are observed in 11.1% of group 1 and 2 only. One patient in group 2 and 3 are admitted while no patient in group 1 is. CONCLUSION: Rapid-acting inhaled beta-2 agonist via MDI with volumatic spacer and DPI (Easyhaler) can be used effectively compared with nebulization form in treating mild to moderate degrees of acute exacerbation of asthma in children with comparable side effects.

Are we adequately managing children with wheeze using the standard case management guidelines?

INTRODUCTION: Prevalence of wheezing is increasing, bronchodilators are sub-optimally utilized and antibiotics are over-prescribed. In Thailand, current case management guidelines based on WHO guidelines, recommend two doses of rapid-acting bronchodilator for children with audible wheeze and fast breathing (FB) and/or lower chest indrawing (LCI). OBJECTIVE: To document the response of children with wheeze with FB and/or LCI to up to three doses of bronchodilator therapy and followed children whose FB and LCI disappeared for 7 days. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We documented response to up to three dose of inhaled salbutamol in consecutively assessed eligible children 1-59 months of age presenting with auscultatory/audible wheeze and FB [WHO defined non-severe pneumonia (NSP)] and/or LCI [WHO defined severe pneumonia (SP)] at the outpatient department of a referral hospital. Data were collected for up to 7 days in responders to bronchodilator therapy. RESULTS: Of 534 children were screened from November 2001 to February 2003, 263 (49.3%) had wheeze and NSP and 271 (50.7%) had wheeze and SP Forty-eight children (9%) had audible wheeze. At screening, 224/263 (85.2%) children in the NSP group and 195/271 (72.0%) in the SP group responded to inhaled salbutamol. 86/419 (20.5%) responded to the third dose of bronchodilator Four hundred and nineteen responders were enrolled and followed up. On follow-up, 14/217 (6.5%) responders among the NSP group and 24/190 (12.6%) among the SP group showed deterioration. Age 1-11 months at screening was identified as an independent predictor of subsequent deterioration. Two seasonal peaks from December to March and from August to October were documented. CONCLUSION: A third dose of bronchodilator therapy at screening will improve the specificity of case management guidelines and reduce antibiotic use. Physicians should use auscultation for management of wheeze.