The Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (PICA): An Anatomical and Clinical Analysis.

AIM: To study the operative approaches for posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms or understanding the different pathologies that can affect this artery, and to present detailed knowledge of this artery?s anatomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present study analyzed the different variations of the PICA?s first two segments, the anterior medullary and lateral medullary segments, regarding the number of trunks, their emergency site, and the presence or absence of hypoplasia of this artery, through microsurgical dissection of 23 fresh cadaver brains. RESULTS: Some striking variations were found, such as the absence of the left vertebral artery in one of the brains and the emergence of any PICA in another two brains studied. Moreover, variations such as hypoplastic arteries, missing trunks on one side and double or triple trunks, different emergence sites, significant PICA emergence from the superior part of the vertebral artery (59% of the trunks), and asymmetries between the right and left sides were recorded. The double origins of non-hypoplastic PICAs were found in 17% (n = 4) of patients. CONCLUSION: The results obtained in the present study indicated the great importance of the studies and reviews on the different topographies of PICA; these studies and reviews expand the knowledge and consensus on the characteristics and implications of PICA?s variations. The clinical implication of this knowledge and consensus is obtaining the best surgical strategies for clipping aneurysms and, in addition, the best choices for occlusion of the vessel affected if the territory of the main vessel has an adequate collateral circulation. From the results of the present study, it is evident that there was a significant PICA emergence from the superior part of the vertebral artery and that the double origin of non-hypoplastic trunks was also found in some patients; the latter is associated with a greater chance of aneurysms and other additional complications.

Immunization with extracellular vesicles excreted by Toxoplasma gondii confers protection in murine infection, activating cellular and humoral responses.

The study aim was to analyze whether microvesicles and exosomes, named extracellular vesicles (EVs), purified from Toxoplasma gondii are able to stimulate the protective immunity of experimental mice when administered, as challenge, a highly virulent strain. EVs excreted from T. gondii tachyzoites (RH strain) were purified by chromatography and used for immunization assays in inbred mouse groups (EV-IM). Chronic infected (CHR) and naive (NI) mice were used as control groups, since the immune response is well known. After immunizations, experimental groups were challenged with 100 tachyzoites. Next, parasitemias were determined by real-time PCR (qPCR), and survival levels were evaluated daily. The humoral response was analyzed by detection of IgM, IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a, and opsonization experiments. The cellular response was evaluated in situ by immunohistochemistry on IFN-γ, IL-10, TNF-α and IL-17 expression in cells of five organs (brain, heart, liver, spleen and skeletal muscles). EV immunization reduced parasitemia and increased the survival index in two mouse lineages (A/Sn and BALB/c) infected with a lethal T. gondii strain. EV-IM mice had higher IgG1 levels than IgM or IgG2a. IgGs purified from sera of EV-IM mice were able to opsonize tachyzoites (RH strain), and mice that received these parasites had lower parasitemias, and mortality was delayed 48 h, compared with the same results from those receiving parasites opsonized with IgG purified from NI mice. Brain and spleen cells from EV-IM mice more highly expressed IFN-γ, IL-10 and TNF-α. In conclusion, EV-immunization was capable of inducing immune protection, eliciting high production of IgG1, IFN-γ, IL-10 and TNF-α.

Bioresorbable scaffold as a dermal substitute.

INTRODUCTION: Bioresorbable polymers are often used in medical procedures. Since they are biocompatible, this class of materials is a viable alternative for cases in which tissue regeneration is strongly compromised. Bioresorbable synthetic polymers may be used as membranes to support and guide cell growth through the process of tissue repair. OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficiency of a porous bioresorbable membrane Poly (L-co-DL lactic acid)-co-trimethylene carbonate, PL-co-DLA-co-TMC, as a dermal substitute associated with partial skin graft in rats. METHODS: A 1.5×1.5 cm defect was created on the backs of 40 Wistar rats. The rats were divided into a control group, in which the defects were filled with partial skin graft, and a treated group, in which a membrane associated with the graft was implemented. The animals were sacrificed 7 days or 60 days after the procedure and the results were evaluated by macroscopic and microscopic analysis. RESULTS: The polymer was biocompatible and allowed better regeneration of the dermis with less shrinkage, unlike what occurs in second intention healing. Compared to the control group, the treated group showed a thicker and wider dermis with the presence of skin appendages, suggesting partial graft integration and better healing. The skin graft acted as a biological protection of the wound. CONCLUSION: The study material was shown to act as a biocompatible dermal substitute and promoted less scarring of the dermis. Further studies should be conducted to improve the methodology of the surgical procedure.

Blended learning strategies in teaching general pathology at a medical course / Estratégias de blended learning (ensino híbrido) no ensino de patologia geral em um curso de medicina

ABSTRACT Introdution: In many medical schools, it is evident that learning of general pathology is deficient, mainly due to the disinterest in knowledge not directly related to professional practice and the lack of pedagogical resources that motivate learning. Blended learning (BL) is an active method of hybrid teaching that uses different technological resources, promoting greater dynamism and integration of students. Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate, from the perspective of the students of the medical course of Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo (PUC-SP), the motivation and the capacity to contextualize provided by the employment of BL to the teaching of general pathology. Material and method: The BL sessions were performed during the applied in-class activities of pathology in the period from October 6 to 31, 2014, in the Neoplasms Module, with the second-year students of the medicine course at PUC-SP. Results: Most of the students showed acceptance of the method, greater motivation and ability to contextualize the pathological processes. Conclusion: The use of BL can provide students with greater contextualization of pathology in medical practice, contributing to a more meaningful learning.

RESUMO Introdução: Atualmente, em muitas escolas médicas, percebe-se que o aprendizado de patologia geral é deficiente, principalmente em decorrência do desinteresse pelos conhecimentos não diretamente relacionados com a prática profissional e da falta de recursos pedagógicos que motivem a aprendizagem. O blended learning (BL) é uma metodologia ativa de ensino híbrido que utiliza diferentes recursos tecnológicos, promovendo maior dinamismo e integração dos estudantes. Objetivo: O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar, sob a ótica dos estudantes do curso de medicina da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo (PUC-SP), a motivação e a capacidade de contextualização proporcionada pela associação do BL ao ensino de patologia geral. Material e método: As sessões de BL foram realizadas durante as sustentações aplicadas de patologia no período de 6 a 31 de outubro de 2014, no Módulo de Neoplasias, com os alunos do segundo ano do curso de medicina da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas e da Saúde da PUC-SP. Resultados: A maioria dos discentes mostrou aceitação ao método, maior motivação e capacidade de contextualizar os processos patológicos. Conclusão: O uso de BL pode proporcionar aos alunos maior contextualização da patologia na prática médica, contribuindo para um aprendizado mais significativo.

Study of mesenchymal stem cells cultured on a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffold containing simvastatin for bone healing.

BACKGROUND: Tissue engineering is a promising alternative for the development of bone substitutes; for this purpose, three things are necessary: stem cells, a scaffold to allow tissue growth and factors that induce tissue regeneration. METHODS: To congregate such efforts, we used the bioresorbable and biocompatible polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) as scaffold. For the osteoinductive factor, we used simvastatin (SIM), a drug with a pleiotropic effect on bone growth. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were cultured in PLGA containing SIM, and the bone substitute of PLGA/SIM/MSC was grafted into critical defects of rat calvaria. RESULTS: The in vitro results showed that SIM directly interfered with the proliferation of MSC promoting cell death, while in the pure PLGA scaffold the MSC grew continuously. Scaffolds were implanted in the calvaria of rats and separated into groups: control (empty defect), PLGA pure, PLGA/SIM, PLGA/MSC and PLGA/SIM/MSC. The increase in bone growth was higher in the PLGA/SIM group. CONCLUSIONS: We observed no improvement in the growth of bone tissue after implantation of the PLGA/SIM/MSC scaffold. As compared with in vitro results, our main hypothesis is that the microarchitecture of PLGA associated with low SIM release would have created an in vivo microenvironment of concentrated SIM that might have induced MSC death. However, our findings indicate that once implanted, both PLGA/SIM and PLGA/MSC contributed to bone formation. We suggest that strategies to maintain the viability of MSCs after cultivation in PLGA/SIM will contribute to improvement of bone regeneration.

Bilaminar Device of Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid)/Collagen Cultured With Adipose-Derived Stem Cells for Dermal Regeneration.

Several materials are commercially available as substitutes for skin. However, new strategies are needed to improve the treatment of skin wounds. In this study, we developed and characterized a new device consisting of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and collagen associated with mesenchymal stem cells derived from human adipose tissue. To develop the bilaminar device, we initially obtained a membrane of PLGA by dissolving the copolymer in chloroform and then produced a collagen type I scaffold by freeze-drying. The materials were characterized physically by gel permeation chromatography, scanning electron microscopy, and mass loss. Biological activity was assessed by cell proliferation assay. A preliminary study in vivo was performed with a pig model in which tissue regeneration was assessed macroscopically and histologically, the commercial device Integra being used as a control. The PLGA/collagen bilaminar material was porous, hydrolytically degradable, and compatible with skin growth. The polymer complex allowed cell adhesion and proliferation, making it a potentially useful cell carrier. In addition, the transparency of the material allowed monitoring of the lesion when the dressings were changed. Xenogeneic mesenchymal cells cultured on the device (PLGA/collagen/ASC) showed a reduced granulomatous reaction to bovine collagen, down-regulation of α-SMA, enhancement in the number of neoformed blood vessels, and collagen organization as compared with normal skin; the device was superior to other materials tested (PLGA/collagen and Integra) in its ability to stimulate the formation of new cutaneous tissue.

PLDLA/PCL-T Scaffold for Meniscus Tissue Engineering.

The inability of the avascular region of the meniscus to regenerate has led to the use of tissue engineering to treat meniscal injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of fibrochondrocytes preseeded on PLDLA/PCL-T [poly(L-co-D,L-lactic acid)/poly(caprolactone-triol)] scaffolds to stimulate regeneration of the whole meniscus. Porous PLDLA/PCL-T (90/10) scaffolds were obtained by solvent casting and particulate leaching. Compressive modulus of 9.5±1.0 MPa and maximum stress of 4.7±0.9 MPa were evaluated. Fibrochondrocytes from rabbit menisci were isolated, seeded directly on the scaffolds, and cultured for 21 days. New Zealand rabbits underwent total meniscectomy, after which implants consisting of cell-free scaffolds or cell-seeded scaffolds were introduced into the medial knee meniscus; the negative control group consisted of rabbits that received no implant. Macroscopic and histological evaluations of the neomeniscus were performed 12 and 24 weeks after implantation. The polymer scaffold implants adapted well to surrounding tissues, without apparent rejection, infection, or chronic inflammatory response. Fibrocartilaginous tissue with mature collagen fibers was observed predominantly in implants with seeded scaffolds compared to cell-free implants after 24 weeks. Similar results were not observed in the control group. Articular cartilage was preserved in the polymeric implants and showed higher chondrocyte cell number than the control group. These findings show that the PLDLA/PCL-T 90/10 scaffold has potential for orthopedic applications since this material allowed the formation of fibrocartilaginous tissue, a structure of crucial importance for repairing injuries to joints, including replacement of the meniscus and the protection of articular cartilage from degeneration.

Gangrena de pavilhão auricular como primeira manifestação de síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide / Gangrene of the auricle as the first sign of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome

A síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide (SAF), mais comum em mulheres, manifesta-se clinicamente como trombose e/ou abortamentos de repetição. Anemia hemolítica autoimune e manifestações neurológicas, cardíacas e cutâneas são comuns. Relata-se o caso de um paciente do gênero masculino cuja manifestação inicial da doença foi gangrena em pavilhão auricular, e o diagnóstico de SAF se deu por meio de biópsia de pele do membro inferior, que mostrava vasculopatia trombótica, sem evidência de vasculite. Esse resultado é um dos dois critérios maiores que, associados a um critério menor, fecham o diagnóstico dessa doença. Discutem-se neste caso os possíveis diagnósticos diferenciais e como eles se diferenciam da doença em foco, além da importância que a biópsia teve no diagnóstico de SAF nesse indivíduo.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), more common in females, manifests clinically as thrombosis and/or recurrent fetal loss. Hemolytic autoimmune anemia and neurological, cardiac and cutaneous manifestations are common. This is the case report of a male patient whose first manifestation of the disease was gangrene of the auricle. The diagnosis of APS was established by biopsy of the lower limb skin, which showed thrombotic vasculopathy with no evidence of vasculitis. This is one of the two major criteria, which, along with a minor criterion, establishes the diagnosis of APS. Possible differential diagnoses are discussed. The importance of the biopsy in the APS diagnosis of this male patient is emphasized.

Gangrene of the auricle as the first sign of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), more common in females, manifests clinically as thrombosis and/or recurrent fetal loss. Hemolytic autoimmune anemia and neurological, cardiac and cutaneous manifestations are common. This is the case report of a male patient whose first manifestation of the disease was gangrene of the auricle. The diagnosis of APS was established by biopsy of the lower limb skin, which showed thrombotic vasculopathy with no evidence of vasculitis. This is one of the two major criteria, which, along with a minor criterion, establishes the diagnosis of APS. Possible differential diagnoses are discussed. The importance of the biopsy in the APS diagnosis of this male patient is emphasized.

Doença de Recklinghausen: relato de caso e revisão de literatura / Recklinghausen disease: case report and literature review

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A neurofibromatose tipo 1 é uma doença genética autossômica dominante. Apresenta-se distribuída em diversas regiões do mundo, não possui distinção étnica e acomete igualmente ambos os sexos. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar um caso de neurofibromatose tipo 1, descrevendo o quadro clínico desta doença. RELATO DO CASO: Paciente do sexo masculino, 60 anos, com diagnóstico de neurofibromatose tipo 1 estabelecido havia 22 anos. Fazia acompanhamento para exérese de nódulos. O paciente referiu uma filha com a mesma doença. CONCLUSÃO: É importante que o clínico saiba reconhecer a doença, para que seja estabelecido o diagnóstico precoce tendo em vista o risco da transformação sarcomatosa. O manuseio do paciente com essa afecção deve ser feito por equipe multidisciplinar familiarizada com a história natural da doença,tendo como objetivo proporcionar a melhor qualidade de vida possível aos seus portadores.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant disorder. It is distributedin many regions of the world, without distinction of ethnic affecting both sexes equally. The objective of this study is toreport a case of neurofibromatosis type 1, describing the clinical course of this disease. CASE REPORT: Male patient, 60-year-old, has been diagnosedwith neurofibromatosis type 1 for 22 years. Exeresis has been performed in order to remove the nodules. The patient reported one daughter with the same disease. CONCLUSION: It is important that clinicians learn to recognize the disease for early diagnosis in view of the risk of sarcomatous transformation. The management of patients with this disease should be done by a multidisciplinary team familiarize with the history of the disease, aiming to provide the best possible quality of life for sufferers.

[Psoriasis of von Zumbusch.

A disorder of unknown origin, psoriasis is characterized by erythemato-squamous eruption. Amongst its clinical and morphologic presentations there is acute generalized pustular psoriasis, termed the von Zumbusch variant, accompanied by generalized toxicity. It is often triggered when stopping steroids, in unstable psoriasis patients. Case report of atypical development that began during prednisone use; complete clearing of lesions and symptoms was achieved with 35 days of acitretin.

Dermatofibrossarcoma protuberans gigante de couro cabeludo: relato de caso / Giant dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of scalp: case report

O dermatofibrossarcoma protuberans (DFSP) é uma neoplasia de tecidos moles de notávelagressividade local, altos índices de recorrência (> 40%) e baixo potencial metastatizante.Ocorre principalmente em tronco e porção proximal de extremidades, sendo incomum emcouro cabeludo, onde perfaz menos de 5% do total de casos. Habitualmente apresenta dimensõesmédias de 5 cm à ocasião da ressecção cirúrgica. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatarcaso de paciente com tumoração gigante em couro cabeludo (20x16x14 cm), enfatizandosuas peculiaridades e discutindo possibilidades terapêuticas.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a soft tissue neoplasm with remarkable localaggressiveness, high levels of recurrence (> 40%) and low metastasizing potential. Occurspredominantly in trunk and proximal extremities, being uncommon in scalp, where representsless than 5% of all cases. Usually presents average size of 5 cm at the time of surgicalexcision. The objective of this study is to report a patient with giant tumor of scalp (20x16x14cm), emphasizing its peculiarities and therapeutic options.

Carcinossarcoma uterino pós-radioterapia: apresentaçäo de um caso / Uterine carcinosarcomapost-radiotherapy: apresentation of a case

O carcinossarcoma uterino é neoplasias rara; apresenta em sua estrutura elementos indiferenciados do estroma endometrial e elementos sarcomatosos hemólogos ao útero. A taxa observada do aparecimento destas lesöes na populaçäo é de 0,8 por 100 mil mulheres. Ocorre com frequência maior entre mulheres que se submeteram à radioterapia, atingindo a taxa de 4.3 por 100 mil muleres nesta populaçäo estudada. A relaçäo entre a radioterapia e o desenvolvimento de carcinossarcoma uterino näo pode se comprovada estatisticamente, dada à raridade da neoplasias, mas provavelmente a radioterapia é um importante fator para o desenvolvimento de tais tumores. Por esta razäo, é fundamental o acompanhamento a longo prazo de mulheres que se submeteram à radioterapia pélvica. Apresentamos o caso de uma paciente tratada do câncer de colo de utero há 14 anos, com radioterapia exclusiva, e que retornou ao serviço qpresentando carciossarcoma uterino.

Polycystic hydatid disease (Echinococcus vogeli): clinical and radiological manifestations and treatment with albendazole of a patient from the Brazilian Amazon region

Apresenta-se um caso de doença hidática policística produzida pelo Echinococcus vogeli em seringueiro do Acre. Dor, crescimento do volume abdominal determinado por massas dolorosas palpáveis, febre e queda do estado geral foram os dados clínicos mais relevantes. Laboratorialmente comprovou-se anemia, eosinofilia, hipoalbuminemia, hipergamaglobulinemia e aumento dos níveis de fosfatase alcalina no plasma. Tomografia computadorizada revelou cistos disseminados pela cavidade peritoneal, até a pelvis, e no interior do fígado, pâncreas e baço. Exame anatomopatológico de cistos obtidos mediante laparotomia firmou o diagnóstico etiológico. Houve regressäo completa da doença com aplicaçäo de Albendazole na dose de 10 mg/kg/dia, durante seis meses