Assessment of Prognostic Factors of Racial Disparities in Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Survival in the United States (1992-2015) / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

Objective@#Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most common cancer among men aged 15 to 39 years. Previous studies have considered factors related to TGCT survival rate and race/ethnicity, but histological type of the diagnosed cancer has not yet been thoroughly assessed.@*Methods@#The data came from 42,854 eligible patients from 1992 to 2015 in the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results 18. Frequencies and column percent by seminoma and nonseminoma subtypes were determined for each covariates. We used Cox proportional hazard regression to assess the impact of multiple factors on post-diagnostic mortality of TGCT.@*Results@#Black males were diagnosed at a later stage, more commonly with local or distant metastases. The incidence of TGCT in black non-seminoma tumors increased most significantly. The difference in survival rates between different ethnic and histological subtypes, overall survival (OS) in patients with non-seminoma was significantly worse than in patients with seminoma. The most important quantitative predictor of death was the stage at the time of diagnosis, and older diagnostic age is also important factor affecting mortality.@*Conclusion@#Histological type of testicular germ cell tumor is an important factor in determining the prognosis of testicular cancer in males of different ethnic groups.

Fatores de risco para mortalidade em idosos admitidos em unidade de terapia intensiva de hospital público / Risk factors for mortality in geriatric patients admitted to the intensive care unit at a public hospital

OBJETIVO: Avaliar fatores de risco para mortalidade em pacientes idosos com internação em uma unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI). MÉTODOS: Foram estudados pacientes idosos admitidos em UTI, em um estudo de coorte histórica. Foi realizada amostragem de conveniência de todos os pacientes com 60 anos ou mais, internados nos 20 leitos de uma UTI de um hospital de alta complexidade. Foi realizada análise de regressão de Cox para estimar os fatores de risco associados à mortalidade. O nível de significância utilizado foi de 5%. RESULTADOS: A proporção de pacientes idosos representou 45% das admissões em UTI no período. A mortalidade hospitalar foi de 38,4%. A variável pós-operatório de cirurgia de urgência e os escores Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) e Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) da admissão foram identificados como fatores de risco independentes para mortalidade hospitalar. CONCLUSÃO: Os fatores de risco associados à mortalidade foram os escores APACHE II e SOFA da admissão e pós-operatório de cirurgia de urgência.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate risk factors for mortality in geriatric patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS: We studied older patients admitted to the ICU in a historical cohort study. Convenience sampling was performed for all patients aged 60 years or older, admitted to the 20 beds of an ICU of a highly complex hospital. Cox regression analysis was performed to estimate risk factors associated with mortality. The significance level used was 5%. RESULTS: The proportion of geriatric patients represented 45% of ICU admissions in the period. In-hospital mortality was 38.4%. The postoperative emergency surgery variable and the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) admission scores were identified as independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSION: Risk factors associated with mortality were APACHE II and SOFA scores for admission and postoperative emergency surgery.

Predictors of mortality in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients from Brazilian reference centers, 2005 to 2012

ABSTRACT Objectives To determine the main predictors of death in multidrug-resistant (MDRTB) patients from Brazil. Design Retrospective cohort study, a survival analysis of patients treated between 2005 and 2012. Results Of 3802 individuals included in study, 64.7% were men, mean age was 39 (1-93) years, and 70.3% had bilateral pulmonary disease. Prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was 8.3%. There were 479 (12.6%) deaths. Median survival time was 1452 days (4 years). Factors associated with increased risk of death were age greater than or equal to 60 years (hazard rate [HR] = 1.6, confidence interval [CI] = 1.15-2.2), HIV co-infection (HR = 1.46; CI = 1.05-1.96), XDR resistance pattern (HR = 1.74, CI = 1.05-2.9), beginning of treatment after failure (HR = 1.72, CI = 1.27-2.32), drug abuse (HR = 1.64, CI = 1.22-2.2), resistance to ethambutol (HR = 1.30, CI = 1.06-1.6) or streptomycin (HR = 1.24, CI = 1.01-1.51). Mainly protective factors were presence of only pulmonary disease (HR = 0.57, CI = 0.35-0.92), moxifloxacin use (HR = 0.44, CI = 0.25-0.80), and levofloxacin use (HR = 0.75; CI = 0.60-0.94). Conclusion A more comprehensive approach is needed to manage MDRTB, addressing early diagnostic, improving adhesion, and comorbidities, mainly HIV infection and drug abuse. The latest generation quinolones have an important effect in improving survival in MDRTB.

Trends in Survival and Incidence of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Extremely Preterm Infants at 23-26 Weeks Gestation

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between survival and incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in extremely premature infants, and identify clinical factors responsible for this association. Medical records of 350 infants at 23-26 weeks gestation from 2000 to 2005 (period I, n = 137) and 2006 to 2010 (period II, n = 213) were retrospectively reviewed. The infants were stratified into 23-24 and 25-26 weeks gestation, and the survival, BPD incidence, and clinical characteristics were analyzed. BPD was defined as oxygen dependency at 36 weeks postmenstrual age. The overall survival rate was significantly improved in period II compared to period I (80.3% vs. 70.0%, respectively; P = 0.028), especially in infants at 23-24 weeks gestation (73.9% vs. 47.4%, respectively; P = 0.001). The BPD incidence in survivors during period II (55.0%) was significantly decreased compared to period I (67.7%; P = 0.042), especially at 25-26 weeks gestation (41.7% vs. 62.3%, respectively; P = 0.008). Significantly improved survival at 23-24 weeks gestation was associated with a higher antenatal steroid use and an improved 5-minute Apgar score. A significant decrease in BPD incidence at 25-26 weeks gestation was associated with early extubation, prolonged use of less invasive continuous positive airway pressure, and reduced supplemental oxygen. Improved perinatal and neonatal care can simultaneously lead to improved survival and decreased BPD incidence in extremely premature infants.

Situación demografica y epidemiológica de los adultos mayores: Santander: 1964 a 2011 / Situação demográfica e epidemiológica das pessoas idosas: Santander: 1964 a 2011

El envejecimiento poblacional ocurre en todo el mundo, como resultado de la disminución de las tasas de fecundidad, natalidad, mortalidad y aumento en la esperanza de vida. Junto con el resultado natural del envejecimiento ocurren circunstancias como el incremento de la carga de enfermedad, representado en padecimientos cronicos, degenerativos y discapacitantes. Objetivo: Describir la situación demográfica y epidemiológica de los adultos mayores del departamento de Santander entre 1964 y 2020, y la información de morbilidad del año 2011. Metodologia: Se utilizaron los censos y proyecciones de población, e indicadores demográficos entre 1964 y 2020, defunciones no fetales por lugar de residencia, y Registros individuales de prestación de servicios de salud (RIPS) del año 2011. Se realizó análisis descriptivo con base en las variables sexo, edad, diagnóstico de consulta y causa básica de muerte. Resultados: La población santandereana muestra un constante aumento en su número pero a un ritmo menor que décadas atrás. Las tasas de fecundidad y natalidad han venido en descenso, y se proyecta que la tasa de mortalidad empezará a incrementarse de nuevo, así mismo la esperanza de vida tiene un comportamiento ascendente. En el a±o 2015 habrá 251,136 personas de 60 y más años, el 44% serán hombres frente al 56% de mujeres. Conclusiones: Las tasas de natalidad y fecundidad se proyectan al descenso. Por el contrario la tasa bruta de mortalidad se incrementó a partir del 2010 y se proyecta que continúe en esta dirección hasta estabilizarse. La esperanza de vida al nacer es mayor para las mujeres que para los hombres, estos datos ratifican el fenómeno de la feminizaci¾n del envejecimiento. La situación de la morbilidad es de caracter agudo, y crónico y de enfermedades no transmisibles.

Population aging occurs worldwide as a result of declining fertility rates, birth rate, mortality and increased life expectancy. An increased disease burden represented in chronic, degenerative and disabling conditions result from such natural aging process. Objective: To describe the demographic and epidemiological situation of seniors in Santander between 1964 and 2020, as well as morbidity information in the year 2011. Methodology: Censuses, population projections, demographic indicators between 1964 and 2020, non-fetal mortality, and individual records of the health service -RIPS- of 2011 were used. A descriptive analysis was performed based on the variables of sex, age, diagnosis, and cause of death. Results: Population from Santander shows a steady increase in its number but at a slower pace than decades ago. Fertility and birth rates have been dropping, and it is projected that the mortality rate and the life expectancy will begin to increase again. In 2015 there will be 251,136 people 60 and older, 44% will be men versus 56% women. Conclusions: The fertility and birth rates are projected to go down. By contrast, the crude death rate went up in 2010 and it is projected to continue in this direction until it stabilizes. Life expectancy at birth is higher for women than for men. This data confirms the feminization of aging phenomenon. The morbidity situation is characterized for being acute, chronic and belonging to non-communicable diseases.

O envelhecimento populacional ocorre em todo o mundo como resultado do declínio das taxas de fertilidade, natalidade, mortalidade e do aumento da expectativa de vida. Como resultado natural do envelhecimento, observam-se circunstancias tais como o aumento das doenças, muitas se apresentando em condiçoes cronicas, degenerativas e incapacitantes. Objetivo: Descrever a situação demográfica e epidemiológica das pessoas idosas no departamento de Santander, entre 1964 e 2020, e a informaþção sobre a morbidade do 2011. Metodologia: São usados os censos e as projeçoes da população e indicadores demográficos entre 1964 e 2020, mortes nÒo-fetais por lugar de residência, e registros individuais de prestaþção de serviços de saúde -RIPS- de 2011. Foi realizada análise descritiva com base no sexo, idade, diagn¾stico da consulta e causa básica da morte. Resultados: A população Santandereana mostra um aumento constante em seus números, mas a um ritmo mais lento do que nas décadas anteriores. As taxas de fertilidade e as de natalidade têm caído, prevê-se que a taxa de mortalidade vai começar a aumentar novamente, mas a expectativa de vida continua crescendo. Em 2015, haverá 251.136 pessoas com 60 anos ou mais, das quais 44% serão homens e 56% serão mulheres. (Em 2015, havia 251.136 pessoas com 60 anos ou mais, das quais 44% eram homens e 56% mulheres.) Conclusões: As taxas de nascimento e de fertilidade projetam-se em declínio. Em contraste, a taxa bruta de mortalidade aumentou a partir de 2010 e sua projeção continua nesta direção, até sua estabilização. A expectativa de vida ao nascer é maior para mulheres do que para os homens, estes dados confirmam o fenómeno da feminização do envelhecimento. A situação da morbidade é geralmente aguda e crónica, com doenças não transmissíveis.

Improving Survival Rate of Korean Patients Initiating Dialysis

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the survival rate among Korean dialysis patients changed during the period between 2005 and 2008 in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 32357 patients who began dialysis between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2008 were eligible for analysis. Baseline demographics, comorbidities, and mortality data were obtained from the database of the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service. RESULTS: Kaplan-Meier curves according to the year of dialysis initiation showed that the survival rate was significantly different (log-rank test, p=0.005), most notably among peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients (p<0.001), although not among hemodialysis (HD) patients (p=0.497). In multivariate analysis, however, patients initiating either HD or PD in 2008 also had a significantly lower risk of mortality compared to those who began dialysis in 2005. Subgroup survival analysis among patients initiating dialysis in 2008 revealed that the survival rate of PD patients was significantly higher than that of HD patients (p=0.001), and the survival benefit of PD over HD remained in non-diabetic patients aged less than 65 years after adjustment of covariates. CONCLUSION: Survival of Korean patients initiating dialysis from 2005 to 2008 has improved over time, particularly in PD patients. In addition, survival rates among patients initiating dialysis in 2008 were different according to patients' age and diabetes, thus we need to consider these factors when dialysis modality should be chosen.

Comparación de resultados entre el retrasplante y el trasplante renal primario en el Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras de 1984 a 2012 / Comparison of results between retransplantation and primary kidney transplantation on Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from 1984 to 2012

Introducción: el retrasplante constituye la mejor opción terapéutica para los enfermos que pierden un primer trasplante renal y vuelven a diálisis, existen disímiles criterios en cuanto a sus resultados al compararlos con los trasplantes renales primarios. Objetivo: analizar el porcentaje de retrasplantes, revisar la supervivencia del injerto y del enfermo, el comportamiento de variables que pueden incidir en los resultados y compararlos con los de los enfermos que reciben un primer trasplante renal. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico, descriptivo, retrospectivo, de los trasplante renales realizados en el Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras desde 1984 hasta diciembre de 2012; quedaron excluidos, los terceros trasplante, dobles (2 riñones a un mismo receptor), combinados (páncreas-riñón e hígado-riñón) y aquellos en los que no fue posible obtener la información requerida para la investigación. Se compararon (entre los grupos retrasplantes y primeros trasplantes) variables de índole general: edad de los receptores y donantes, sexo del receptor, enfermedad que ocasionó la insuficiencia renal, porcentaje de reactividad ante un panel de linfocito (PRA), compatibilidades HLA, tipo de donante (vivo o cadáver), tiempos de isquemia, presencia y duración de necrosis tubular aguda (donante cadáver), rechazo y supervivencia del injerto y el paciente. Resultados: los retrasplantes constituyeron el 5,4 por ciento de la muestra. No existieron diferencias entre edades, sexo, PRA, compatibilidades ni tipo de donante entre los segundos y primeros injertos. Los enfermos que llegaron a la insuficiencia renal por riñones poliquísticos nunca han recibido en nuestro centro un segundo trasplante. Resultó significativamente estadístico el uso de terapia cuádruple secuencial como inmunosupresión de inducción en los retrasplantes (55,9 por ciento vs. 9,7 por ciento de los primarios...

Introduction: retransplant constitutes the best therapeutic choice for patients who lose a first renal transplant and return to dialysis, existing dissimilar criteria as to its results when ranking them with renal primary transplant. Objective: to analyze the percentage of retransplantation, to revise graft and patient survival, to review the behavior of variables that can affect the results and to compare them with patients receiving a first renal transplant. Methods: an analytic, descriptive, retrospective study was accomplished, including all renal transplant performed at the Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from 1984 to December of 2012. Third transplants, double transplants (two kidneys to the same receptor), combined transplants (pancreas-kidney and liver-kidney) and those where it was not possible to obtain the information required for this research were excluded. Variables of general nature were compared between retransplantation groups and first transplants, such as: age of recipient and donor, sex of the recipient, a disease that caused kidney failure, percentage of reactivity to a lymphocyte panel (PRA), HLA compatibility, donor type (living or dead), ischemia time, presence and duration of acute tubular necrosis (dead donor), rejection and graft and patient survival. Results:rRetransplant constituted only 5.4 percent of the sample (34 patients). There were no differences in age, sex, PRA, donor type or compatibilities between the second and first grafts. Patients who reached the renal failure due to polycystic kidneys have never had a second transplant in our institution. The use of sequential quadruple therapy as induction immunosuppression, retransplantation (55.9 percent vs. 9.7 percent of primary) was statistically significant...

Tuberculous meningitis: do modern diagnostic tools offer better prognosis prediction.

Background: The British Medical Research Council (BMRC) staging has been extensively used to evaluate the disease severity and establish the approximate prognosis of tuberculous meningitis. Aims: This study aimed at analyzing the predictive accuracy for mortality and neurological sequelae of a set of clinical features, laboratory tests and imaging. Methods: We compared the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) staging with a new scoring proposal to predict the prognosis of patients with Central Nervous System Tuberculosis. Data from Ecuador was collected. A score was built using a Spiegelhalter and Knill-Jones method and compared with BMRC staging with a ROC curve. Results: A total of 213/310 patients (68.7%) were in BMRC stage II or III. Fifty-seven patients died (18.3%) and 101 (32.5%) survived with sequelae. The associated predictors were consciousness impairment (p= 0.010), motor deficit (p = 0.003), cisternal effacement (p=0.006) and infarcts (p=0.015). The new score based on these predictors yielded a larger area under the curve of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.70-0.82), but not significantly different from the BMRC (0.72: 95% CI: 0.65-0.77). Conclusions: This modern score is easy to apply and could be a sound predictor of poor prognosis. However, the availability of modern tests did not improve the ability to predict a bad outcome.

Genito-urinary tuberculosis revisited - 13 years' experience of a single centre.

Background: Tuberculosis had been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as ‘public health emergency’ in 1993. Extra pulmonary tuberculosis (E.P.T.B.) comprises 20-25% total burden of the disease in which genitourinary tuberculosis (G.U.T.B.) is 4%. Timely diagnosis and treatment will prevent the sequelae of this disease. Aims: To know the varied clinical presentations, diagnostic modalities and management of G.U.T.B. Methods: During a 13-year-period, 117 retrospective cases of GUTB were admitted in the tertiary care centre. They were analyzed for clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities and management. Results: Young patients mainly in third decade of life were commonly affected with higher incidence in females. In our study, the most common presentation was irritative voiding symptoms (66.47%) followed by haematuria (47.60%). Although it can affect the entire organ in genito-urinary system but, in the present study, kidney was the most affected organ (64.9%) following ureter (27.35%), urinary bladder (17.09%), prostate (3.4%) and epididymis (5.19%). In this study, we had not encountered any case of testicular and penile tuberculosis. Among the different diagnostic modalities in this study, the diagnostic positivity rate was 41.6% for the urine AFB test, 55.4% for the urine M. tuberculosis culture test and 67.7% for PCR. Chest x-ray was positive in 25.6% (30). ESR was raised in 62.5% and Mantoux test was positive in 61.2% patients. Conclusion: A high index of suspicion and a wide range of investigations may be required to achieve a complete diagnosis of genitourinary tuberculosis. Though short course chemotherapy with four-drug-regimen for sixmonth- duration is the mainstay of treatment, surgical interventions were required in 60% of cases of this study.

Tuberculous meningitis: do modern diagnostic tools offer better prognosis prediction.

Background: The British Medical Research Council (BMRC) staging has been extensively used to evaluate the disease severity and establish the approximate prognosis of tuberculous meningitis. Aims: This study aimed at analyzing the predictive accuracy for mortality and neurological sequelae of a set of clinical features, laboratory tests and imaging. Methods: We compared the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) staging with a new scoring proposal to predict the prognosis of patients with Central Nervous System Tuberculosis. Data from Ecuador was collected. A score was built using a Spiegelhalter and Knill-Jones method and compared with BMRC staging with a ROC curve. Results: A total of 213/310 patients (68.7%) were in BMRC stage II or III. Fifty-seven patients died (18.3%) and 101 (32.5%) survived with sequelae. The associated predictors were consciousness impairment (p= 0.010), motor deficit (p = 0.003), cisternal effacement (p=0.006) and infarcts (p=0.015). The new score based on these predictors yielded a larger area under the curve of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.70-0.82), but not significantly different from the BMRC (0.72: 95% CI: 0.65-0.77). Conclusions: This modern score is easy to apply and could be a sound predictor of poor prognosis. However, the availability of modern tests did not improve the ability to predict a bad outcome.

Computed Tomographic-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation of Recurrent or Residual Hepatocellular Carcinomas around Retained Iodized Oil after Transarterial Chemoembolization

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical efficacy, safety, and risk factors influencing local tumor progression, following CT-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of recurrent or residual hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), around iodized oil retention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four patients (M : F = 51 : 13, 65.0 +/- 8.2 years old) with recurrent or residual HCC (75 index tumors, size = 14.0 +/- 4.6 mm) had been treated by CT-guided RFA, using retained iodized oil as markers for targeting. The technical success, technique effectiveness rate and complications of RFA were then assessed. On pre-ablative and immediate follow-up CT after RFA, we evaluated the size of enhancing index tumors and iodized oil retention, presence of abutting vessels, completeness of ablation of iodized oil retention, and the presence of ablative margins greater than 5 mm. Also, the time interval between transarterial chemoembolization and RFA was assessed. The cumulative local tumor progression rate was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the Cox proportional hazards model was adopted, to clarify the independent factors affecting local tumor progression. RESULTS: The technical success and technique effectiveness rate was 100% and 98.7%, respectively. Major complications were observed in 5.6%. The cumulative rates of local tumor progression at 1 and 2 years were 17.5% and 37.5%, respectively. In multivariate analyses, partial ablation of the targeted iodized oil retention was the sole independent predictor of a higher local tumor progression rate. CONCLUSION: CT-guided RFA of HCC around iodized oil retention was effective and safe. Local tumor progression can be minimized by complete ablation of not only index tumors, but targeted iodized oil deposits as well.

Radiofrequency Ablation Combined with Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization for the Treatment of Single Hepatocellular Carcinoma of 2 to 5 cm in Diameter: Comparison with Surgical Resection

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with surgical resection in patients with a single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranging from 2 to 5 cm. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study participants were enrolled over a period of 29 months and were comprised of 37 patients in a combined therapy group and 47 patients in a surgical resection group. RFA was performed the day after TACE, and surgical resection was performed by open laparotomy. The two groups were compared with respect to the length of hospital stay, rates of major complication, and rates of recurrence-free and overall survival. RESULTS: Major complications occurred more frequently in the surgical resection group (14.9%) than in the combined therapy group (2.7%). However, there was no statistical significance (p = 0.059). The rates of recurrence-free survival at 1, 2, 3 and 4 years were similar between the combined therapy group (89.2%, 75.2%, 69.4% and 69.4%, respectively) and the surgical resection group (81.8%, 68.5%, 68.5% and 65%, respectively) (p = 0.7962, log-rank test). The overall survival rates at 1, 2, 3 and 4 years were also similar between groups (97.3%, 86.5%, 78.4% and 78.4%, respectively, in the combined therapy group, and 95.7%, 89.4%, 84.3% and 80.3%, respectively, in the surgical resection group) (p = 0.6321, log-rank test). CONCLUSION: When compared with surgical resection for the treatment of a single HCC ranging from 2 to 5 cm, RFA combined with TACE shows similar results in terms of recurrence-free and overall survival rates.

Endocarditis infecciosa: características clínicas, complicaciones y mortalidad en 506 pacientes y factores pronósticos de sobrevida a 10 años (1998-2008). Estudio cooperativo nacional en endocarditis infecciosa en Chile (ECNEI-2) / Clinical characteristics, complications and mortality in 506 patients with infective endocarditis and determinants of survival rate at 10 years

Background: Rates ofmorbidity and mortality in Infective Endocarditis (IE) remain high and prognosis in this disease is still difficult and uncertain. Aim: To study IE in Chile in its active phase during inpatient hospital stay and long term survival rates. Material and Methods: Observational prospective national cohort study of 506 consecutive patients included between June 1,1998 and July 31, 2008, from 37 Chilean hospitals (secondary and tertiary centers) nationwide. Results: The main findings were the presence of Rheumatic valve disease in 22.1 % of patients, a history of intravenous drug abuse (IVDA) only in 0.7%, the presence of Staphylo-coccus aureus in 29.2% of blood cultures, negative blood cultures in 33.2%, heart failure in 51.7% and native valve involvement in 86% ofpatients. Echocardiographic diagnosis was achieved in 94% of patients. Hospital mortality was 26.1% and its prognostics factors were persisting infection (Odds ratio (OR) 6.43, Confidence Interval (CI) 1.45-28.33%), failure of medical treatment and no surgical intervention (OR 48.8; CI 6.67-349.9). Five and 10 years survival rates were 75.6 and 48.6%, respectively. The significant prognostic factors for long term mortality, determined by multivariate analysis were the presence of diabetes, Staphylococcus aureus infection, sepsis, heart failure, renal failure and lack of surgical treatment during the IE episode. Conclusions: The microbiologic diagnosis of IE must be urgently improved in Chile. Mortality rates are still high (26.1%) partly because of a high incidence of negative blood cultures and the need for more surgical valve interventions during in-hospital period. Long term prognostic factors for mortality should be identified early to improve outcome.

Desnutrición como factor pronóstico en la supervivencia del paciente pediátrico con cáncer en una institución colombiana / Malnutrition as a prognostic factor for survival of pediatric cancer patients at a Colombian institution

Objetivo: Determinar si la desnutrición es un factor pronóstico en la supervivencia de los niños con cáncer. Métodos: Se evaluó retrospectivamente una cohorte de 471 pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico nuevo de cáncer, a los cuales se les determinó mediante Kaplan-Meier la supervivencia global y libre de recaída hasta 60 meses de seguimiento, según el estado nutricional al diagnóstico medido por los puntajes Z para los índices antropométricos peso y talla para la edad. Con el fin de evaluar el efecto del estado nutricional sobre la supervivencia teniendo en cuenta variables demográficas y oncológicas, se realizó el análisis multivariado Regresión de Cox. Resultados: La supervivencia global a los 12 meses fue menor en los desnutridos clasificados por puntaje Z peso para la edad y talla para la edad. El puntaje Z peso para la edad influyó en la supervivencia independientemente de las otras variables, p=0,027, razón de riesgo ajustado de 3,3, intervalo de confianza 95% 1,1-9,5. Conclusiones: La desnutrición de acuerdo con el puntaje Z peso para la edad y talla para la edad al ingreso es un factor pronóstico adverso en la supervivencia global en los pacientes pediátricos con cáncer. El efecto de la desnutrición en la supervivencia del paciente oncológico pediátrico aún es controversial.

Objective: To determine if malnutrition is a prognostic factor in the survival of children with cancer. Methods: A retrospective evaluation was carried out on a cohort of 471 pediatric patients recently diagnosed with cancer; patients´ overall survival and relapse free rates up to 60 months follow up was determined by Kaplan-Meier in accordance with nutritional state at diagnosis, measured by anthropometric index Z- score for weight and height according to age. The multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the effect of nutritional state on survival in relation to demographic and oncological variables. Results: Overall survival at 12 months was lower among the malnourished classified by weight and height Z- score according to age. The Z- weight score according to age influenced survival independent of other variables, p=0.027, adjusted risk cause at 3.3, 95% confidence interval: 1.1-9.5. Conclusions: Malnutrition as classified by Z-weight and height score according to age at admission is an adverse prognostic factor for the overall survival of pediatric cancer patients. The effect of malnutrition on pediatric cancer patients remains controversial.

Câncer de laringe: um olhar sobre a qualidade de vida / Laryngeal cancer: a view searching patients' life quality

Introdução: os tumores de laringe representam 25% dos tumores de cabeça e pescoço e cerca de 2% de todos os cânceres no Brasil. No entanto, a evolução dos pacientes com câncer de laringe, após ser determinado o fim das possibilidades de cura e tratamento, é pouco conhecida. Atualmente, os estudos sobre a qualidade de vida desses pacientes têm alcançado grande destaque na literatura e na prática clínica. Esses estudos visam a sugerir como desenvolver o tratamento para que haja uma menor repercussão dos sintomas do câncer e/ou como desenvolver o tratamento no desempenho diário do paciente. Objetivo: contribuir com os profissionais envolvidos na assistência a estes pacientes, para que reflitam sobre os fatores que influenciam a qualidade de vida dos mesmos. Métodos: revisão bibliográfica sobre a qualidade de vida do paciente com câncer de laringe e aspectos epidemiológicos. Resultados: ultimamente, diversos instrumentos específicos foram criados com o objetivo de quantificar a qualidade de vida de portadores do câncer de cabeça e pescoço, avaliando esse aspecto durante ou após o tratamento, e refletindo a perspectiva do paciente frente ao tratamento, assim como discutindo e expondo as possíveis fragilidades terapêuticas. Conclusões: é necessário, a fim de aumentar a eficácia desses instrumentos, que se conheça mais sobre a história natural da doença, sua epidemiologia, sintomas, tratamento e tempo de sobrevida após o diagnóstico e, assim, os profissionais envolvidos no tratamento desse câncer podem contribuir ainda mais na recuperação da saúde do paciente.

Introduction: The laryngeal tumors represent 25% of head and neck tumors and about 2% of all cancers in Brazil. However, is not too much known the evolution of the carrying patients of this cancer, after to be determined the end of the possibilities of its cure. Currently, studies on quality of life of these patients have achieved great distinction in literature and in clinical practice. These studies aim at to suggest as to develop the treatment causing a smaller repercussion of the cancer´s symptoms and/or treatment in the patients' daily performance. Objective: To contribute to the professionals involved in assistance for these patients to reflect about the aspects that influence the life quality of the patient submitted to cancer treatment. Methods: A literature review on quality of life of patients with laryngeal cancer and epidemiological aspects. Results: Lately diverse specific instruments had been created with the objective of quantify the quality of life for patients with cancer of head and neck, evaluating this aspect during or after treatment, and reflecting the perspective of the subjects front to the treatment, as well as, discussing and exposing possible weaknesses therapies. Conclusions: it is necessary to add itself to the effectiveness of these instruments, more knowledge about the natural history of disease, its epidemiology, symptoms, treatment and the time of supervened after the diagnosis, and in this way, allow the professionals involved in the treatment may contribute more in the recovery of patient health.

Esquemas alternativos de hemodiálise / Alternative hemodialysis regimens

A taxa de mortalidade entre os pacientes em hemodiálise (HD) é extremamente elevada. A expectativa de vida restante de um paciente ao iniciar HD é apenas cerca de um quarto daquela da população geral com a mesma idade. O esquema convencional de HD, com três sessões semanais de cerca de quatro horas, foi estabelecido de maneira empírica há cerca de quatro décadas e merece se reavaliado criticamente. Desde a falha do estudo HEMO em demonstrar benefícios clínicos com o aumento do Kt/V de ureia nos pacientes em esquema convencional de HD, tem havido um crescente interesse pelos esquemas alternativos de hemodiálise. Dentre os esquemas mais promissores, destacam-se a HD diária de curta duração e a HD noturna prolongada. As limitações econômicas que inibem a aplicação dos conhecimentos emergentes nesta área devem ser vencidas.

The mortality rate among patients on hemodialysis (HD) is extremely high. The remaining life expectancy of a patient to start HD is only about one fourth that of the general population with the same age. The conventional scheme of HD, with three weekly sessions of about four hours, it was established empirically for nearly four decades and deserves to be critically reassessed. Since the failure of the HEMO study to demonstrate clinical benefits with increased Kt / V urea in patients on conventional HD scheme, has been a growing interest in alternative hemodialysis regimens. Among the most promising schemes, it is worth the short daily HD and nocturnal HD prolonged. The economic constraints that inhibit the application of emerging knowledge in this area should be overcome.

Insuficiência renal aguda nefrotóxica: prevalência, evolução clínica e desfecho / Nephrotoxic acute renal failure: prevalence, clinical course and outcome

Introdução: A insuficiência renal aguda (IRA) nefrotóxica é frequente e importante causa de morbimortalidade. objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência, o curso clínico e o desfecho da IRA nefrotóxica. pacientes e Métodos: Coorte histórica realizada em um hospital de ensino terciário, no período de fevereiro a novembro de 1997. Foram incluídos pacientes acima de 12 anos, com diagnóstico de IRA, acompanhados pela equipe de Interconsulta de Nefrologia. Foram excluídos transplantados renais, portadores de insuficiência renal crônica, dialisados por intoxicação exógena e aqueles transferidos de hospital durante o tratamento. Resultados: Dos 234 pacientes acompanhados, 12% apresentaram IRA nefrotóxica e 24%, IRA multifatorial associada ao uso de drogas nefrotóxicas. Entre as comorbidades mais prevalentes, estão hipertensão arterial, hepatopatias, neoplasias, insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e diabetes mellitus. Quinze por cento necessitaram de diálise, e o tipo mais frequentemente usado foi hemodiálise venovenosa contínua; 42% eram oligúricos, 44,7% evoluíram para óbito e 33% recuperaram a função renal. Antibióticos, AINH e contraste radiológico foram as drogas nefrotóxicas mais prevalentes. Os medicamentos nefrotóxicos implicados foram, em ordem de frequência, vancomicina, aminoglicosídeos, aciclovir, quimioterápicos e contraste radiológico. Hepatopatia foi a única variável com significância estatística (p=0,03, IC= 1,08 a 6,49) em análise multivariada. Na comparação entre IRA nefrotóxica, houve aumento da mortalidade proporcionalmente aos dias de internação. Conclusão: IRA nefrotóxica é frequente, grave e deve ser continuamente monitorada, tanto ambulatorialmente quanto no ambiente intra-hospitalar.

Background: Acute renal failure (ARF) is frequent and important cause of morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence, clinical course and outcome of nephrotoxic ARF. Patients and Methods: This historical cohort study conducted in a tertiary hospital in the period from February to November 1997. We included patients over 12 years, diagnosed with ARF, accompanied by a team of nephrologists. Were excluded from renal transplant patients, patients with chronic renal failure, dialysis with exogenous poisoning and those transferred to hospital during treatment. Results: Of 234 patients enrolled, 12% had nephrotoxic ARF, and 24% multifactorial ARF associated with the use of nephrotoxic drugs. Among the most prevalent comorbidities are arterial hypertension, liver diseases, cancer, congestive heart failure and diabetes mellitus. Fifteen percent required dialysis, and the type most often used was continuous venovenous hemodialysis, 42% were oliguric, 44.7% died and 33% recovered renal function. Antibiotics, NSAIDs and contrast radiological nephrotoxic drugs were more prevalent. The nephrotoxic drugs were, in order of frequency, vancomycin, aminoglycosides, acyclovir, chemotherapy and radiological contrast. Liver was the only variable with statistical significance (p = 0.03, CI = 1.08 to 6.49) in multivariate analysis. In comparison nephrotoxic ARF, there was increased mortality proportional to the length of hospitalization. Conclusion: Nephrotoxic ARF is common, serious and must be continuously monitored, both outpatient and in-hospital setting.