Peak inspiratory flow in children and adolescents with asthma using dry powder inhalers: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To measure peak inspiratory flow (PIF) and assess dynamic lung function in children and adolescents with asthma, as well as to determine the association of PIF with dynamic lung function and clinical variables. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of children and adolescents with asthma using dry powder inhalers (DPIs) regularly. The control group included sex-, age-, weight-, and height-matched individuals without lung disease. Socioeconomic and clinical variables were collected. PIF and dynamic lung function variables were obtained with a specific device. Between-group comparisons were made with the Student's t-test and ANOVA. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed, and Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to assess associations between PIF and the other variables. RESULTS: A total of 88 individuals (44 asthma patients and 44 controls) participated in the study. PIF and respiratory muscle strength (S-index) values were lower in the asthma patients than in the controls. PIF correlated positively with age, weight, height, and S-index in the asthma group. After controlling for height, we found an increase of 0.05 units in PIF associated with an increase of 1 unit in the S-index in the asthma group. CONCLUSIONS: PIF appears to be lower in children and adolescents with asthma than in those without asthma, correlating positively with age, height, weight, and respiratory muscle strength.

Impact of age in health-related quality of life in older adults with cancer / Impacto da idade na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em idosos com câncer

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of age in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults with cancer. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of 608 older adults diagnosed with cancer. Age groups were considered an independent variable. For the analysis of HRQoL, the mean scores of age groups were compared by analysis of variance and the Scheffé comparison test. For measuring the association between age and HRQoL, we used simple and multiple linear regression analyses. RESULTS: Cognitive function showed the highest scores (average 87.94 ± 26.87), while physical function showed the lowest ones (68.04 ± 28.63). The highest symptom score was observed for financial difficulties (34.21 ± 39.06), followed by pain (29.47 ± 33.92) and insomnia (28.51 ± 37.03). After adjustment, we observed a decrease in physical function (p = 0.028) and an improvement in emotional function (p = 0.003) with increasing age. CONCLUSIONS: In older patients with cancer, age negatively impacted physical function and positively impacted emotional function.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto da idade na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) em idosos com câncer. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal envolvendo 608 idosos diagnosticados com câncer. Os grupos etários foram considerados uma variável independente. Para a análise da QVRS, os escores médios dos grupos etários foram comparados utilizando a análise de variância e o teste de Scheffé. Para medir a associação entre idade e QVRS, foram utilizadas análises de regressão linear simples e múltipla. RESULTADOS: A função cognitiva apresentou os maiores escores (média 87,94 ± 26,87), enquanto a função física apresentou os menores (68,04 ± 28,63). O maior escore de sintomas foi observado em dificuldades financeiras (34,21 ± 39,06), seguido por dor (29,47 ± 33,92) e insônia (28,51 ± 37,03). Após o ajuste, observamos diminuição da função física (p = 0,028) e melhora da função emocional (p = 0,003) com o aumento da idade. CONCLUSÕES: Em pacientes idosos com câncer, a idade impactou negativamente a função física e positivamente a função emocional.

Peak inspiratory flow in children and adolescents with asthma using dry powder inhalers: a cross-sectional study / Pico de fluxo inspiratório de crianças e adolescentes com asma que utilizam inaladores de pó: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure peak inspiratory flow (PIF) and assess dynamic lung function in children and adolescents with asthma, as well as to determine the association of PIF with dynamic lung function and clinical variables. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of children and adolescents with asthma using dry powder inhalers (DPIs) regularly. The control group included sex-, age-, weight-, and height-matched individuals without lung disease. Socioeconomic and clinical variables were collected. PIF and dynamic lung function variables were obtained with a specific device. Between-group comparisons were made with the Student's t-test and ANOVA. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed, and Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to assess associations between PIF and the other variables. Results: A total of 88 individuals (44 asthma patients and 44 controls) participated in the study. PIF and respiratory muscle strength (S-index) values were lower in the asthma patients than in the controls. PIF correlated positively with age, weight, height, and S-index in the asthma group. After controlling for height, we found an increase of 0.05 units in PIF associated with an increase of 1 unit in the S-index in the asthma group. Conclusions: PIF appears to be lower in children and adolescents with asthma than in those without asthma, correlating positively with age, height, weight, and respiratory muscle strength.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar o pico de fluxo inspiratório (PFI) e a função pulmonar dinâmica de crianças e adolescentes asmáticos e verificar sua associação com variáveis clínicas. Métodos: Estudo transversal com crianças e adolescentes asmáticos que faziam uso regular de inaladores de pó. O grupo controle foi composto por participantes sem doença pulmonar, pareados por sexo, idade, peso e altura. Foram coletadas variáveis socioeconômicas e clínicas. O PFI e variáveis de função pulmonar dinâmica foram obtidos através de um dispositivo específico. As associações entre os dois grupos foram estudadas utilizando-se o teste t de Student e ANOVA. Realizou-se um modelo de regressão linear múltipla e foram calculados os coeficientes de correlação de Pearson para estimar associações entre o PFI e as demais variáveis. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 88 participantes (44 em cada grupo). Nos asmáticos, os valores do PFI e de força muscular respiratória (S-índex) foram menores que os dos controles. O PFI nos asmáticos apresentou correlações positivas com as variáveis idade, peso, altura e S-índex. Controlando-se a altura, houve um aumento de 0,05 unidades no PFI associado ao aumento de 1 unidade de S-índex nos asmáticos. Conclusões: O PFI é menor em crianças e adolescentes com asma em comparação àqueles sem asma com características antropométricas semelhantes e apresenta correlações positivas com idade, altura, peso e força dos músculos respiratórios.

Six-minute walk test as a determinant of the functional capacity of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis: A systematic review.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disorder. The involvement of the respiratory system is frequent and culminates in dyspnea and exercise intolerance. Functional capacity is an important diagnostic tool, because it reflects the cardiorespiratory status, quality of life and prognosis. This systematic review aims to assess the reproducibility and validity of the six minute walk test (6MWT) to reflect the functional capacity of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis, and also the correlation between 6MWT and lung function. Searches for articles were performed in eight databases using MeSH/DeCS keywords. A total of 695 articles were found and, after verifying all eligibility criteria, six articles were included for analysis and scoring regarding the methodological quality according to the QUADAS scale (Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies). All articles had good methodology (QUADAS between 9 and 11 points). The 6MWT is not correlated with lung function. There is a strong indication that the 6MWT is a reproducible test to assess the functional capacity of children and adolescents with CF. The validity assessment could not be reached because the studies included in this systematic review did not use adequate statistical tools to carry out such an evaluation.

Bronchodilator response cut-off points and FEV 0.75 reference values for spirometry in preschoolers.

OBJECTIVE:: To determine the cut-off points for FEV1, FEV0.75, FEV0.5, and FEF25-75% bronchodilator responses in healthy preschool children and to generate reference values for FEV0.75. METHODS:: This was a cross-sectional community-based study involving children 3-5 years of age. Healthy preschool children were selected by a standardized questionnaire. Spirometry was performed before and after bronchodilator use. The cut-off point of the response was defined as the 95th percentile of the change in each parameter. RESULTS:: We recruited 266 children, 160 (60%) of whom were able to perform acceptable, reproducible expiratory maneuvers before and after bronchodilator use. The mean age and height were 57.78 ± 7.86 months and 106.56 ± 6.43 cm, respectively. The success rate for FEV0.5 was 35%, 68%, and 70% in the 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds, respectively. The 95th percentile of the change in the percentage of the predicted value in response to bronchodilator use was 11.6%, 16.0%, 8.5%, and 35.5% for FEV1, FEV0.75, FEV0.5, and FEF25-75%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS:: Our results provide cut-off points for bronchodilator responsiveness for FEV1, FEV0.75, FEV0.5, and FEF25-75% in healthy preschool children. In addition, we proposed gender-specific reference equations for FEV0.75. Our findings could improve the physiological assessment of respiratory function in preschool children. OBJETIVO:: Determinar os pontos de corte de resposta ao broncodilatador do VEF1, VEF0,75, VEF0,5 e FEF25-75% em crianças pré-escolares saudáveis e gerar valores de referência para o VEF0,75. MÉTODOS:: Foi realizado um estudo transversal de base comunitária em crianças de 3-5 anos de idade. Pré-escolares saudáveis foram selecionados por um questionário padronizado. Foi realizada espirometria antes e depois do uso de broncodilatador. Foram definidos os pontos de corte dessa resposta como o percentil 95 de variação em cada parâmetro. RESULTADOS:: Foram recrutadas 266 crianças, e 160 (60,0%) foram capazes de gerar manobras expiratórias aceitáveis e reprodutíveis antes e depois do uso de broncodilatador. As médias de idade e estatura dos participantes foram 57,78 ± 7,86 meses e 106,56 ± 6,43 cm, respectivamente. A taxa de sucesso para o VEF0,5 foi de 35%, 68% e 70%, respectivamente, nos participantes com 3, 4 e 5 anos de idade. O percentil 95 de variação percentual do valor previsto na resposta ao broncodilatador foram, respectivamente, de 11,6%, 16,0%, 8,5% e 35,5%, para VEF1, VEF0,75, VEF0,5 e FEF25-75%. CONCLUSÕES:: Nossos resultados definiram pontos de corte de resposta ao broncodilatador para o VEF1, VEF0,75, VEF0,5 e FEF25-75 em crianças pré-escolares saudáveis. Adicionalmente, foram propostas equações de referência para o VEF0,75, separadas por sexo. Os achados deste estudo podem melhorar a avaliação fisiológica da função respiratória em pré-escolares.

Bronchodilator response cut-off points and FEV 0. 75 reference values for spirometry in preschoolers / Pontos de corte da resposta ao broncodilatador e valores de referência para VEF 0. 75 em espirometria de pré-escolares

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the cut-off points for FEV1, FEV0.75, FEV0.5, and FEF25-75% bronchodilator responses in healthy preschool children and to generate reference values for FEV0.75. Methods: This was a cross-sectional community-based study involving children 3-5 years of age. Healthy preschool children were selected by a standardized questionnaire. Spirometry was performed before and after bronchodilator use. The cut-off point of the response was defined as the 95th percentile of the change in each parameter. Results: We recruited 266 children, 160 (60%) of whom were able to perform acceptable, reproducible expiratory maneuvers before and after bronchodilator use. The mean age and height were 57.78 ± 7.86 months and 106.56 ± 6.43 cm, respectively. The success rate for FEV0.5 was 35%, 68%, and 70% in the 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds, respectively. The 95th percentile of the change in the percentage of the predicted value in response to bronchodilator use was 11.6%, 16.0%, 8.5%, and 35.5% for FEV1, FEV0.75, FEV0.5, and FEF25-75%, respectively. Conclusions: Our results provide cut-off points for bronchodilator responsiveness for FEV1, FEV0.75, FEV0.5, and FEF25-75% in healthy preschool children. In addition, we proposed gender-specific reference equations for FEV0.75. Our findings could improve the physiological assessment of respiratory function in preschool children.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar os pontos de corte de resposta ao broncodilatador do VEF1, VEF0,75, VEF0,5 e FEF25-75% em crianças pré-escolares saudáveis e gerar valores de referência para o VEF0,75. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal de base comunitária em crianças de 3-5 anos de idade. Pré-escolares saudáveis foram selecionados por um questionário padronizado. Foi realizada espirometria antes e depois do uso de broncodilatador. Foram definidos os pontos de corte dessa resposta como o percentil 95 de variação em cada parâmetro. Resultados: Foram recrutadas 266 crianças, e 160 (60,0%) foram capazes de gerar manobras expiratórias aceitáveis e reprodutíveis antes e depois do uso de broncodilatador. As médias de idade e estatura dos participantes foram 57,78 ± 7,86 meses e 106,56 ± 6,43 cm, respectivamente. A taxa de sucesso para o VEF0,5 foi de 35%, 68% e 70%, respectivamente, nos participantes com 3, 4 e 5 anos de idade. O percentil 95 de variação percentual do valor previsto na resposta ao broncodilatador foram, respectivamente, de 11,6%, 16,0%, 8,5% e 35,5%, para VEF1, VEF0,75, VEF0,5 e FEF25-75%. Conclusões: Nossos resultados definiram pontos de corte de resposta ao broncodilatador para o VEF1, VEF0,75, VEF0,5 e FEF25-75 em crianças pré-escolares saudáveis. Adicionalmente, foram propostas equações de referência para o VEF0,75, separadas por sexo. Os achados deste estudo podem melhorar a avaliação fisiológica da função respiratória em pré-escolares.

Effects of noninvasive ventilation on treadmill 6-min walk distance and regional chest wall volumes in cystic fibrosis: randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Dyspnea and exercise intolerance are the symptoms that most affect the quality of life of children and adolescents with respiratory disorders resulting from cystic fibrosis (CF). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) on treadmill 6-min walk distance and regional chest wall volumes in cystic fibrosis patients. METHOD: Crossover clinical trial, randomized, controlled and open with 13 children and adolescents with CF, aged 7-16 years, with pulmonary impairment (NTC01987271). The patients performed a treadmill walking test (TWT) during 6 min, with and without NIV on a BiLEVEL mode, an interval of 24-48 h between tests. Before and after each test, patients were assessed by spirometry and optoelectronic plethysmography. RESULTS: Walking distance in TWT with NIV was significantly higher that without ventilatory support (mean ± sd: 0.41 ± 0.08 vs. 0.39 ± 0.85 km, p = 0.039). TWT with NIV increase forced expiratory volume on 1 s (FEV1; p = 0.036), tidal volume (Vt; p = 0.005), minute ventilation (MV; p = 0.013), pulmonary rib cage volume (Vrcp; p = 0.011), and decrease the abdominal volume (Vab; p = 0.013) after test. There was a significant reduction in oxygen saturation (p = 0.018) and permanent increase in respiratory rate after 5 min (p = 0.021) after the end test without NIV. CONCLUSION: During the walking test on the treadmill, the NIV change thoracoabdominal kinematics and lung function in order to optimized ventilation and tissue oxygenation, with improvement of walk distance. Consequently, NIV is an effective tool to increase functional capacity in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in patients with cystic fibrosis: scientific evidence regarding clinical impact, diagnosis, and treatment.

Evidence-based techniques have been increasingly used in the creation of clinical guidelines and the development of recommendations for medical practice. The use of levels of evidence allows the reader to identify the quality of scientific information that supports the recommendations made by experts. The objective of this review was to address current concepts related to the clinical impact, diagnosis, and treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in patients with cystic fibrosis. For the preparation of this review, the authors defined a group of questions that would be answered in accordance with the principles of PICO-an acronym based on questions regarding the Patients of interest, Intervention being studied, Comparison of the intervention, and Outcome of interest. For each question, a structured review of the literature was performed using the Medline database in order to identify the studies with the methodological design most appropriate to answering the question. The questions were designed so that each of the authors could write a response. A first draft was prepared and discussed by the group. Recommendations were then made on the basis of the level of scientific evidence, in accordance with the classification system devised by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, as well as the level of agreement among the members of the group.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in patients with cystic fibrosis: scientific evidence regarding clinical impact, diagnosis, and treatment / Infecção por Pseudomonas aeruginosa em pacientes com fibrose cística: evidências científicas sobre o impacto clínico, diagnóstico e tratamento

Evidence-based techniques have been increasingly used in the creation of clinical guidelines and the development of recommendations for medical practice. The use of levels of evidence allows the reader to identify the quality of scientific information that supports the recommendations made by experts. The objective of this review was to address current concepts related to the clinical impact, diagnosis, and treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in patients with cystic fibrosis. For the preparation of this review, the authors defined a group of questions that would be answered in accordance with the principles of PICO–an acronym based on questions regarding the Patients of interest, Intervention being studied, Comparison of the intervention, and Outcome of interest. For each question, a structured review of the literature was performed using the Medline database in order to identify the studies with the methodological design most appropriate to answering the question. The questions were designed so that each of the authors could write a response. A first draft was prepared and discussed by the group. Recommendations were then made on the basis of the level of scientific evidence, in accordance with the classification system devised by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, as well as the level of agreement among the members of the group. .

As técnicas de medicina baseada em evidências são cada vez mais utilizadas para a construção de diretrizes clínicas e recomendações para a prática médica. O uso de níveis de evidências permite que o leitor identifique a qualidade da informação científica que sustenta as recomendações feitas pelos especialistas. Esta revisão teve por objetivo abordar conceitos atuais sobre o impacto clínico, diagnóstico e tratamento das infecções por Pseudomonas aeruginosa em pacientes com fibrose cística. Para a elaboração desta revisão, o grupo de autores definiu as perguntas que seriam respondidas, seguindo os preceitos de PICO, acrônimo baseado em perguntas referentes aos Pacientes de interesse, Intervenção a ser estudada, Comparação da intervenção e Outcome (desfecho) de interesse. Para cada pergunta, uma revisão estruturada da literatura foi realizada nas bases de dados do Medline, buscando identificar os estudos com desenho metodológico mais adequado para responder à questão. As perguntas foram designadas para que cada um dos autores redigisse uma resposta, e um primeiro rascunho foi elaborado e discutido pelo grupo em uma reunião presencial. Após essa discussão, recomendações foram emitidas com base na força das evidências e na concordância entre os membros do grupo segundo o sistema de classificação do Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine. .

Acute asthma management in children: knowledge of the topic among health professionals at teaching hospitals in the city of Recife, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: Knowledge of acute asthma management in children is a subject that has rarely been explored. The objective of this study was to assess the level of such knowledge among health professionals in the city of Recife, Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey involving 27 pediatricians and 7 nurses, all with at least two years of professional experience, at two large pediatric teaching hospitals in Recife. The participants completed a self-administered multiple-choice questionnaire. RESULTS: The pediatricians and nurses all possessed insufficient knowledge regarding the use of metered dose inhalers, nebulization, and types/doses of medications, as well as techniques for decontamination and disinfection of the equipment. CONCLUSIONS: Insufficient knowledge of acute asthma management in children can lead to less effective treatment in hospitals such as those evaluated here. Educational programs should be developed in order to minimize this problem.

Manejo de crises asmáticas em crianças: conhecimento de profissionais de saúde quanto ao tópico em hospitais-escola do Recife (PE) / Acute asthma management in children: knowledge of the topic among health professionals at teaching hospitals in the city of Recife, Brazil

OBJETIVO: O conhecimento sobre o manejo da asma aguda em crianças é um tema pouco explorado. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o conhecimento de profissionais de saúde do Recife (PE) sobre o assunto. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal de tipo inquérito com 27 médicos e 7 enfermeiros, com mais de 2 anos de trabalho, de dois grandes hospitais-escola de pediatria do Recife, avaliados através de questionários autoaplicáveis com questões fechadas. RESULTADOS: Tanto os pediatras quanto os enfermeiros apresentaram conhecimento inadequado sobre o uso de inaladores dosimetrados, nebulização, tipo e dosagem dos medicamentos, assim como técnicas de descontaminação e desinfecção do material. CONCLUSÕES: O conhecimento inadequado do manejo da asma aguda em crianças pode refletir em um tratamento menos efetivo nesses hospitais. Medidas educativas são necessárias para minimizar o problema.

OBJECTIVE: Knowledge of acute asthma management in children is a subject that has rarely been explored. The objective of this study was to assess the level of such knowledge among health professionals in the city of Recife, Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey involving 27 pediatricians and 7 nurses, all with at least two years of professional experience, at two large pediatric teaching hospitals in Recife. The participants completed a self-administered multiple-choice questionnaire. RESULTS: The pediatricians and nurses all possessed insufficient knowledge regarding the use of metered dose inhalers, nebulization, and types/doses of medications, as well as techniques for decontamination and disinfection of the equipment. CONCLUSIONS: Insufficient knowledge of acute asthma management in children can lead to less effective treatment in hospitals such as those evaluated here. Educational programs should be developed in order to minimize this problem.

Risk factors for healthcare-associated infection in pediatric intensive care units: a systematic review.

A systematic review of observational studies on risk factors for healthcare-associated infection in pediatric Intensive Care Units (ICU) was carried out. Studies indexed in MEDLINE, LILACS, Cochrane, BDENF, CAPES databases published in English, French, Spanish or Portuguese between 1987 and 2006 were included and cross references added. Key words for search were 'cross infection' and 'Pediatric Intensive Care Units' with others sub-terms included. 11 studies were selected from 419 originally found: four studies had healthcare-associated infection as the main outcome without a specific site; three articles identified factors associated with lower respiratory tract infection (pneumonia or tracheitis); three articles were concerned with laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection; and a single retrospective study analyzed urinary tract infection. The production of evidence on risk factors Paediatric ICU has not kept up the same pace of that on adult - there are few studies with adequate design and statistical analysis. The methodological diversity of the studies did not allow for a summarized measurement of risk factors.

Nutritional, clinical and socioeconomic profile of patients with cystic fibrosis treated at a referral center in northeastern Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional study involving CF patients < 18 years of age, evaluated between March and July of 2006 at a referral center in northeastern Brazil. Nutritional assessment was performed using Z scores for height/age (H/A), weight/age (W/A) and weight/height (W/H), as well as %weight/height (%W/H) and body composition measurements. Socioeconomic and clinical data were obtained. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients were evaluated, 12 (57.1%) of whom were female. Mean age at diagnosis was 3.8 +/- 3.9 years. The principal features at diagnosis were respiratory infection (85.7%), steatorrhea (66.7%) and nutritional deficit (47.6%). The mean Z scores for W/A, H/A and W/H were 0.73 +/- 0.28, 0.34 +/- 0.21 and 0.73 +/- 0.35, respectively. Mean %W/H was 94.52 +/- 1.58. The percentage of malnourished children assessed by Z score differed from that assessed by %W/H (nutritional deficit in 66.7% and 33.3%, respectively; p > 0.05). Socioeconomic status, clinical status and Shwachman score were better among well-nourished patients than among those classified as malnourished (p < 0.05 for Shwachman score). CONCLUSIONS: Normal nutritional status was identified based on nutritional indicators (W/A, H/A and W/H), whereas nutritional deficit was identified by assessing body composition. Socioeconomic factors proved favorable, especially maternal education and per capita income. Age at diagnosis was higher than that reported in the literature, although the Shwachman score and the incidence of respiratory infections demonstrated that the patients presented good clinical status.

Perfil nutricional, clínico e socioeconômico de pacientes com fibrose cística atendidos em um centro de referência no nordeste do Brasil / Nutritional, clinical and socioeconomic profile of patients with cystic fibrosis treated at a referral center in northeastern Brazil

OBJETIVO: Descrever o perfil de pacientes portadores de fibrose cística (FC). MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, prospectivo, avaliando fibrocísticos de < 18 anos, durante o período de março a julho de 2006, em um centro de referência no nordeste do Brasil. A avaliação nutricional foi realizada pelo escore Z de altura/idade (A/I), peso/idade (P/I) e peso/altura (P/A) e por centopeso/altura ( por centoP/A), além de medidas de composição corporal. Foram obtidos dados socioeconômicos e clínicos. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 21 pacientes, sendo 12 (57,1 por cento) do sexo feminino. A média de idade de diagnóstico foi de 3,8 ± 3,9 anos, e as principais características ao diagnóstico foram infecção respiratória (85,7 por cento), esteatorreia (66,7 por cento) e déficit nutricional (47,6 por cento). A média de escore Z para P/I, A/I e P/A, respectivamente, foi de -0,73 ± 0,28, -0,34 ± 0,21 e -0,73 ± 0,35. A média de por centoP/A foi de 94,52 ± 1,58. O percentual de desnutridos divergiu quando avaliado pelo escore Z e por centoP/A (déficit nutricional em 66,7 por cento e 33,3 por cento, respectivamente; p > 0,05). Os pacientes eutróficos apresentaram melhores condições socioeconômicas (p > 0,05) e clínicas, com melhor escore de Shwachman (p < 0,05) quando comparados aos distróficos. CONCLUSÕES: Eutrofia foi encontrada através dos indicadores nutricionais (P/I, A/I e P/A), ao passo que déficit nutricional foi encontrado quando avaliada a composição corporal. As condições socioeconômicas apresentaram-se favoráveis, principalmente em relação ao grau de instrução materna e renda per capita. A idade de diagnóstico foi maior do que o relatado na literatura, embora o escore de Shwachman e o número de infecções respiratórias tenham demonstrado que os pacientes tinham boas condições clínicas.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional study involving CF patients < 18 years of age, evaluated between March and July of 2006 at a referral center in northeastern Brazil. Nutritional assessment was performed using Z scores for height/age (H/A), weight/age (W/A) and weight/height (W/H), as well as percentweight/height ( percentW/H) and body composition measurements. Socioeconomic and clinical data were obtained. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients were evaluated, 12 (57.1 percent) of whom were female. Mean age at diagnosis was 3.8 ± 3.9 years. The principal features at diagnosis were respiratory infection (85.7 percent), steatorrhea (66.7 percent) and nutritional deficit (47.6 percent). The mean Z scores for W/A, H/A and W/H were 0.73 ± 0.28, 0.34 ± 0.21 and 0.73 ± 0.35, respectively. Mean percentW/H was 94.52 ± 1.58. The percentage of malnourished children assessed by Z score differed from that assessed by percentW/H (nutritional deficit in 66.7 percent and 33.3 percent, respectively; p > 0.05). Socioeconomic status, clinical status and Shwachman score were better among well-nourished patients than among those classified as malnourished (p < 0.05 for Shwachman score). CONCLUSIONS: Normal nutritional status was identified based on nutritional indicators (W/A, H/A and W/H), whereas nutritional deficit was identified by assessing body composition. Socioeconomic factors proved favorable, especially maternal education and per capita income. Age at diagnosis was higher than that reported in the literature, although the Shwachman score and the incidence of respiratory infections demonstrated that the patients presented good clinical status.

Risk factors for healthcare-associated infection in pediatric intensive care units: a systematic review / Fatores de risco para infecções associadas aos cuidados de saúde em unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica: uma revisão sistemática

A systematic review of observational studies on risk factors for healthcare-associated infection in pediatric Intensive Care Units (ICU) was carried out. Studies indexed in MEDLINE, LILACS, Cochrane, BDENF, CAPES databases published in English, French, Spanish or Portuguese between 1987 and 2006 were included and cross references added. Key words for search were "cross infection" and "Pediatric Intensive Care Units" with others sub-terms included. 11 studies were selected from 419 originally found: four studies had healthcare-associated infection as the main outcome without a specific site; three articles identified factors associated with lower respiratory tract infection (pneumonia or tracheitis); three articles were concerned with laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection; and a single retrospective study analyzed urinary tract infection. The production of evidence on risk factors Paediatric ICU has not kept up the same pace of that on adult - there are few studies with adequate design and statistical analysis. The methodological diversity of the studies did not allow for a summarized measurement of risk factors.

Realizou-se revisão sistemática de estudos observacionais sobre fatores de risco para infecção relacionada aos cuidados de saúde em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) pediátrica. Foram incluídos estudos em inglês, francês, espanhol ou português indexados no MEDLINE, LILACS, Cochrane Library, BDENF, CAPES, entre 1987 e 2006. As palavras-chave foram "Infecção Hospitalar" e "Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Pediátricas", com diferentes formas de escrever. Onze artigos foram selecionados a partir de 419 resumos encontrados: quatro tinham como desfecho infecção em qualquer topografia; três eram sobre infecções de vias aéreas inferiores; três estudaram infecção da corrente sanguínea confirmada laboratorialmente e um analisou infecção do trato urinário. A produção de evidências na UTI pediátrica não vem acompanhando o ritmo dos estudos em adultos - existem poucos estudos com desenhos e análise estatística adequados. A diversidade metodológica não permitiu a realização de medição sumarizada dos fatores de risco.

Low income as a protective factor against asthma in children and adolescents treated via the Brazilian Unified Health System.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the role that low income plays in the development of asthma in children and adolescents. METHODS: A case-control study using a questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 687 participants were studied at a tertiary hospital via the Brazilian Unified Health System. Ages ranged from 5 to 15 years, and 54.7% of the participants were male. Nearly half of the individuals (49.1%) lived in the metropolitan area of the city of Recife, and the remainder lived in the countryside. Most (98.1%) lived in concrete houses or apartments, with a mean of 5.7 rooms and 4.8 occupants per residence. Mean maternal level of education was 6.8 years of schooling. The median monthly per capita income was R$ 103.75 (Brazilian reals). The sample was stratified according to cut-off points related to the national minimum wage (R$350.00): <25% of minimum wage = very low income (39% of the sample); <50% of minimum wage = low income (37.3% of the sample); and > or =50% of minimum wage = satisfactory income (23.7% of the sample). There was no association between poverty and development of asthma. CONCLUSIONS: Poverty is not protective against asthma in children and adolescents treated via the Brazilian Unified Health System, as we might suppose based on the hygiene hypothesis. However, cohort studies are needed in order to confirm these findings.

Baixa renda como fator de proteção contra asma em crianças e adolescentes usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde / Low income as a protective factor against asthma in children and adolescents treated via the Brazilian Unified Health System

OBJETIVO: O estudo visou analisar o papel da baixa renda como fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de asma em crianças e adolescentes. MÉTODOS: Estudo de caso-controle com questionário. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 687 participantes, de 5 a 15 anos de idade, usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde, em um hospital terciário, sendo 54,7 por cento masculinos. Quase metade (49,1 por cento) residia na zona metropolitana do Recife e o restante no interior. Moravam em casa de alvenaria 98,1 por cento, com média de 5,7 cômodos e 4,8 moradores. Suas mães estudaram em média 6,8 anos. A mediana da renda mensal per capita foi de R$ 103,75. Baseando-se na renda mensal per capita inferior a 25 e 50 por cento do salário mínimo, classificou-se a amostra em muito baixa renda, baixa renda e renda satisfatória, cujos percentuais foram, respectivamente: 39, 37,3 e 23,7. Não se observou associação entre baixa renda e desenvolvimento de asma. CONCLUSÕES: A baixa renda não exerce, em crianças e adolescentes usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde do nordeste do Brasil, efeito protetor no surgimento de asma, como poderia se supor, baseando-se na teoria da higiene. Todavia, estudos de coorte são necessários para confirmar estes achados.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the role that low income plays in the development of asthma in children and adolescents. METHODS: A case-control study using a questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 687 participants were studied at a tertiary hospital via the Brazilian Unified Health System. Ages ranged from 5 to 15 years, and 54.7 percent of the participants were male. Nearly half of the individuals (49.1 percent) lived in the metropolitan area of the city of Recife, and the remainder lived in the countryside. Most (98.1 percent) lived in concrete houses or apartments, with a mean of 5.7 rooms and 4.8 occupants per residence. Mean maternal level of education was 6.8 years of schooling. The median monthly per capita income was R$ 103.75 (Brazilian reals). The sample was stratified according to cut-off points related to the national minimum wage (R$350.00): <25 percent of minimum wage = very low income (39 percent of the sample); <50 percent of minimum wage = low income (37.3 percent of the sample); and >50 percent of minimum wage = satisfactory income (23.7 percent of the sample). There was no association between poverty and development of asthma. CONCLUSIONS: Poverty is not protective against asthma in children and adolescents treated via the Brazilian Unified Health System, as we might suppose based on the hygiene hypothesis. However, cohort studies are needed in order to confirm these findings.

Fisioterapia respiratória no empiema pleural: revisão sistemática da literatura / Respiratory therapy in pleural empyema: a systematic review of the literature

Alguns dos recursos utilizados em fisioterapia respiratória não são baseados em evidências científicas comprovadas. A má utilização desses recursos pode ser nociva do ponto de vista de efeitos adversos, ou levar a um custo-benefício não favorável. Os autores fizeram uma revisão sistemática da literatura, através das bases de dados Oldmedline, Medline, Cinahl, Lilacs, e nos registros de ensaios clínicos da Biblioteca Cochrane e do National Institutes of Health, dos EUA, visando a encontrar ensaios sobre a eficácia da fisioterapia respiratória no empiema pleural em crianças, adolescentes ou adultos. Nenhum ensaio sobre o assunto foi encontrado. Os autores concluem que faltam evidências sobre a eficácia da fisioterapia no empiema pleural. Ensaios clínicos são necessários para responder a esta questão.

Some techniques used in respiratory therapy are not based on sound scientific evidence. The misuse of such techniques can be harmful in terms of adverse effects and may not be cost-effective. A systematic review of the literature was performed using the Oldmedline, Medline, Cinahl and Lilacs databases, as well as the registry of clinical trials registered by the Cochrane Library and National Institutes of Health. The focus of the review was on trials addressing the efficacy of respiratory therapy in treating pleural empyema in children, adolescents and adults. No such trials were found. We can conclude that there is a lack of data regarding the efficacy of respiratory therapy in pleural empyema. In order to provide such data, clinical trials are warranted.