Leptospirosis as a cause of infertility in Uruguayan beef cattle.

Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira spp., is a globally significant zoonotic disease that affects humans and animals. In cattle, leptospirosis is associated not only with overt clinical manifestations but also with reproductive diseases, including infertility. This study assesses the potential correlation between leptospirosis and infertility in Uruguayan beef cattle. A case-control study involved 31 beef herds with no prior history of Leptospira vaccination. In each herd, veterinarians identified 10 non-pregnant (cases) and 25 pregnant cows (controls) using ultrasound, and blood and urine samples were collected from each cow. Serological diagnosis was performed using the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), and quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to assess Leptospira excretion. Additionally, antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) were tested. The results demonstrated an association between seropositivity to the Sejroe serogroup (cut-off 1:200) and infertility in cattle (OR=1.31; p-value=0.06). Furthermore, the level of Leptospira excretion (qPCR) in urine was associated with increased infertility risk, with cows excreting over 100 copies per mL of urine having the highest odds of infertility (OR=2.34; p-value<0.01). This study suggests a potential association between leptospirosis and infertility in Uruguayan beef cattle, emphasizing the importance of both serological and molecular diagnostics for assessing reproductive health in cattle herds. Future research should explore the impact of Leptospira serogroups on other reproductive disorders in cattle.

Seroprevalence and herd-level associated factors of pathogenic Leptospira spp. circulating locally in dairy cattle in Uruguay.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of worldwide importance. In Uruguay, it is endemic in cattle and primarily affects people with occupational exposure to livestock. The aim of this study was to determine the national seroprevalence and associated factors of local pathogen Leptospires in dairy cattle. A cross-sectional study was carried out. Herds were stratified by size (1-50, 51-250, and > 250 cattle), and up to 60 dairy cows per herd were randomly selected. A total of 4269 serum samples from 101 dairy herds were analyzed by microscopic agglutination test (MAT). A two-stage sampling design was used to estimate population seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. In order to determine the factors associated with the disease, herds with at least 1 seropositive animal were considered as case herds. Seroprevalence of Leptospira was 27.80% with a 95% CI [21.06, 34.54] at the animal level and 86.92% with a 95% CI [80.00, 93.75] at the herd level. The serology confirms the predominance of serogroups Sejroe and Pomona in our herd with the presence of incidental leptospires infection, in smaller proportion, but with a wide distribution at farm level. The population size and purchasing replacement of cows on dairy farms were associated with infection at farm level. The serologic studies confirmed that exposure to Leptospira spp. is endemic in our herds, and the spreading over dairy herds. Although the movement of purchased females and the size of the herd were associated with the disease, more studies should be conducted, to better understand the epidemiology of the disease and to highlight the possible risks to public health, especially in rural workers, farmers and veterinarians.

Características epidemiológicas de las consultas pediátricas en el servicio de emergencia de un hospital público del interior del país: Uruguay 2019 / Epidemiological characteristics of pediatric consultations at the emergency services of a public hospital in the interior of Uruguay in 2019 / Características epidemiológicas das consultas pediátricas no serviço de emergência de um hospital público do interior do Uruguai no ano 2019

El Hospital Escuela del Litoral de Paysandú es un centro de referencia departamental y regional con un Servicio de Emergencia único. Asiste a 68.000 usuarios, 25% pediátrico. Objetivos: describir la epidemiología global de las consultas durante el año 2019 en el Servicio de Emergencia del Hospital Escuela del Litoral de Paysandú y las características de la población pediátrica que concurre al mismo. Analizar los principales motivos de consulta, demanda asistencial, nivel de gravedad, rol del médico que asiste al paciente pediátrico y destino del paciente. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de la demanda asistencial durante el año 2019. Descripción y análisis de las consultas pediátricas entre el 1 de enero y el 30 de junio de 2019. Resultados: 47.647 consultas, 11.411 pediátricas. Meses de mayor consulta: julio, agosto y octubre. N: 4.905, 34,4% preescolares. 89% de las consultas se clasificaron como nivel 4 y 5. La patología respiratoria predominó en todas las franjas etarias y meses del año. Los pacientes nivel 1 se derivaron a cuidados moderados o CTI, y uno falleció. Discusión y conclusiones: mayor demanda asistencial en los meses fríos por patologías respiratorias. 1 de cada 100 consultas corresponden a emergencia-urgencia y 1 de cada 5 menos urgentes. Inadecuado uso del Servicio de Emergencia con sobrecarga asistencial. Se confirma utilidad del triage como herramienta en un Servicio de Emergencia mixto

The School Hospital Hospital Escuela del Litoral de Paysandú is a departmental and regional reference center with a unique Emergency Service. It serves 68,000 users, 25% of which are pediatric users. Objectives: to describe the total epidemiology consultations in 2019 at the Emergency Service of the Hospital Escuela del Litoral de Paysandú and the characteristics of its emergency pediatric population. Analyze the key reasons for consultation, care demand, level of severity, the role of doctors who receive pediatric patients and patients' referral. Material and methods: retrospective descriptive study of the demand for care in 2019. Description and analysis of pediatric consultations between January 1 and June 30, 2019. Results: 47,647 consultations, 11,411 pediatric. Months of greater consultation: July, August and October. N: 4905. 34.4% preschool. 89% of the consultations were classified as level 4 and 5. Respiratory pathology prevailed in all age groups and months of the year. Level 1 patients were referred to moderate care or ICU and one died. Discussion and conclusions: higher demand for care in Winter months due to respiratory pathologies. 1 out of every 100 consultations belonged to Emergency-Urgency Services and 1 out of 5 were less urgent. Inadequate use of the Emergency Service with care overload. We confirm the effectiveness of Triage as a tool in a mixed Emergency Services patients' referral process.

O Hospital Escola do Litoral de Paysandú é um centro de referência departamental e regional com um Serviço de Emergência único. Atende 68.000 usuários, 25% pediátricos. Objetivos: descrever a epidemiologia geral das consultas durante o ano de 2019 no Serviço de Emergência do Hospital Escola de Paysandú e as características da população pediátrica que atende o Serviço de Emergência. Analisar os principais motivos de consulta, demanda de atendimento, grau de gravidade, atuação dos médicos que atendem os pacientes pediátricos e destino do paciente. Material e métodos: estudo descritivo retrospectivo da demanda de atendimento durante o ano de 2019. Descrição e análise das consultas pediátricas entre 1º de janeiro e 30 de junho. de 2019 Resultados: 47.647 consultas, 11.411 pediátricas. Meses de maior consulta: julho, agosto e outubro. N: 4.905. 34,4% pré-escolar. 89% das consultas foram classificadas como nível 4 e 5. A patologia respiratória prevaleceu em todas as faixas etárias e meses do ano. Pacientes nível 1 foram encaminhados para cuidados moderados ou UTI e um faleceu. Discussão e conclusões: maior procura de cuidados nos meses frios devido a patologias respiratórias. 1 em cada 100 consultas corresponde a Urgência-Emergência e 1 em cada 5 corresponde a consultas menos urgentes. Uso inadequado do Serviço de Emergência com sobrecarga de atendimento. Confirma-se a utilidade da Triagem como ferramenta em um Serviço de Emergência misto.

Repercusión de la pandemia por SARS-COV-2 sobre las consultas en los Servicios de Emergencia Pediátrica en Uruguay / Consequences of the SARS-COV-2 pandemic on Pediatric Emergency Services in Uruguay / Repercussão da pandemia de SARS-COV-2 nas consultas nos Serviços de Emergência Pediátrica do Uruguai

En marzo de 2020 se confirma el primer caso de enfermedad por coronavirus en Uruguay, recomendándose un confinamiento social. La atención sanitaria se redujo a servicios de urgencia y emergencia (SE). Objetivo: analizar las características de las consultas pediátricas en los SE del subsector público y privado en Uruguay, durante los primeros 4 meses de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2. Metodología: estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, multicéntrico. Resultados: participaron 23 SE de todas las regiones del país. Período 1 prepandemia: 14/03/19-29.07.19, período 2: 14/03/20-29/07/20 Consultas: período 1 n=121.116, período 2 n=33.099 (desciende 73%). Hospitalizaciones desde el SE: período 1 n= .6649 (tasa 5,5%). Período 2: n=2.948 (tasa 9,5%). Diagnósticos período 1: infección respiratoria aguda (IRA) alta 39.892 (33%), IRA baja 86.56 (7%), trauma menor 8.651 (7%), gastroenteritis 8.044 (6,6%), crisis asmática/CBO 7.974 (6,5%), lesiones 4.389 (3,6%), dolor abdominal 3.528 (3%), problemas de salud mental 859 (0,7%), convulsiones 758 (0,7%), patología social 678 (0,5%). Diagnósticos 2020: IRA alta 5.168 (16%), trauma menor 2.759 (8%), lesiones 2.652 (8%), dolor abdominal 1.494 (4,5%), gastroenteritis 1.296 (4%), asma/CBO 1.095 (3,3%), IRA baja 700 (2,1%), patología social 522 (1,6%), problemas de salud mental 471 (1,4%), convulsiones 408 (1,2%). Conclusiones: en los primeros meses de la pandemia hubo una reducción sostenida y significativo de consultas pediátricas en los SE. No hubo aumento en frecuencia absoluta de ninguno de los diagnósticos. Se registró un descenso histórico de las IRA bajas y las hospitalizaciones por esta causa en todo el país. Mantener una vigilancia de las consultas en los SE permitiría identificar e intervenir oportunamente si se produjeran cambios o situaciones de riesgo hasta el momento no detectadas.

In March 2020 the first case of coronavirus disease was confirmed in Uruguay, and lockdown was recommended. Health care services were reduced to Urgency and Emergency Services (ES). Objectives: to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of pediatric visits to the ES of the public and private subsector in Uruguay, during the first 4 months of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: descriptive, retrospective. Results: 23 institutions participated. 2 periods were considered: 1) pre-pandemic, 03/14/19 to 07/29/19, 2) 03/14/20 to 07/29/20. Visits: period 1: n=121,116 (< 15 years), period 2: n=33.099 (73% decrease). Hospital admissions: period 1: n=6,649 (rate 5.5). Period 2: n=2.948 (rate 9,5). Diagnoses period 1: High acute respiratory infection 39,892 (33%), low acute respiratory infection 8,656 (7%), minor trauma 8,651 (7%), gastroenteritis 8,044 (6,6%), asthmatic crisis/CBO 7.974 (6,5%), injuries 4,389 (3,6%), abdominal pain (3,528) 3%, mental health problems 859 (0.7%), seizures 758 (0.7%), social pathology 678 (0.5% ). 2020 diagnoses: high acute respiratory infection 5.168 (16%), minor trauma 2,759 (8%), injuries 2,652 (8%), abdominal pain 1,494 (4.5%), gastroenteritis 1,296 (4%), asthma/CBO 1,095 (3,3%), low acute respiratory infection 700 (2,1%), social pathology 522 (1,6%), mental health problems 471 (1,4%), seizures 408 (1,2%). Conclusions: in the first months of the pandemic there was a sustained and significant reduction in pediatric consultations in ES. There was no increase in absolute frequency of any of the diagnoses. There was a historical decrease in low respiratory infections and hospitalizations due to this cause in the whole country. Maintaining a surveillance of the visits in the ES would enable practitioners to identify and take action in case of changes or previously undetected risk situations.

Em março de 2020, foi confirmado o primeiro caso de doença por coronavírus no Uruguai, recomendando o confinamento. A assistência à saúde foi reduzida a serviços de urgência e emergência (SE). Objetivo: analisar as características das consultas pediátricas no SE do subsetor público e privado no Uruguai, durante os primeiros 4 meses da pandemia de SARS-CoV-2. Metodologia: estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, multicêntrico. Resultados: participaram 23 SEs de todas as regiões do país. Período pré-pandemia 1: 14/03/19-29/07/19, período 2: 14/03/20-29/07/20 Consultas: período 1 n=121.116, período 2 n=33.099 (redução de 73%) . Internações da SE: período 1 n= 0,6649 (taxa 5,5%). Período 2: n=2.948 (taxa de 9,5%). Diagnósticos do período 1: infecção respiratória aguda alta (IRA) 39.892 (33%), LRA baixa 86,56 (7%), trauma menor 8.651 (7%), gastroenterite 8.044 (6,6%), crise asmática/CBO 7.974 (6, 5% ), lesões 4.389 (3,6%), dor abdominal 3.528 (3%), problemas de saúde mental 859 (0,7%), convulsões 758 (0,7%), patologia social 678 (0,5%). Diagnósticos 2020: IRA alta 5.168 (16%), trauma leve 2.759 (8%), lesões 2.652 (8%), dor abdominal 1.494 (4,5%), gastroenterite 1.296 (4%), asma/CBO 1.095 (3, 3%), IRA baixa 700 (2,1%), patologia social 522 (1,6%), problemas de saúde mental 471 (1,4%), convulsões 408 (1,2%). Conclusões: nos primeiros meses da pandemia houve uma redução sustentada e significativa das consultas pediátricas no SE. Não houve aumento na frequência absoluta de nenhum dos diagnósticos. Foi registrado um decréscimo histórico de IRAs baixas e internações por essa causa em todo o país. A manutenção de uma vigilância das consultas no SE permitiria identificar e intervir atempadamente nos casos de alterações ou situações de risco que até agora não tinham sido detectadas.

Síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico postinfección por SARS-CoV-2: a propósito de un caso clínico / Post SARS-CoV-2 multisystem inflammatory syndrome: a clinical case / Síndrome inflamatória pós-infecção por SARS-CoV-2: relato de caso

En Uruguay, la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 ha generado menos afectación en pacientes de la edad pediátrica, aumentando el número de casos positivos en este grupo etario de forma proporcional al aumento de la circulación del virus. La forma de presentación es generalmente asintomática o con síntomas respiratorios leves a moderados. El síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico postinfección por SARS-CoV-2 (SIM-C) ha sido descrito como una de las principales complicaciones postinfección. Se describe el primer caso de un paciente con SIM-C en la ciudad de Paysandú, Uruguay. Se trata de un escolar de 6 años que cursó una infección por SARS-CoV-2 un mes previo. Se presenta con un cuadro febril de 4 días de evolución asociado a lesiones de piel e inyección conjuntival y odinofagia, con parámetros inflamatorios elevados y afectación cardiológica. Se traslada a CTI local con buena evolución posterior. El alto índice de sospecha de SIM-C mejora el diagnóstico y en consecuencia la morbimortalidad de la enfermedad.

Summary: In Uruguay, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has affected the pediatric population less and the number of positive cases in this age group has increased proportionally to the rise of the virus circulation. The presentation is generally asymptomatic or with mild to moderate respiratory symptoms. Post-Infection Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome by SARS-CoV-2 (MIS-C) has been described as one of the main post-infection complications. We describe the first case of a patient with MIS-C in the city of Paysandú, Uruguay. It is a 6-year-old schoolboy who had had a SARS-CoV-2 infection a month earlier. He showed a 4-day history of fever associated with skin lesions and conjunctival injection and odynophagia, with high inflammatory parameters and cardiac involvement. He was transferred to a local ICU and had a good subsequent evolution. The high index of suspicion of MIS-C improves the diagnosis and consequently the morbidity and mortality rates of the disease.

No Uruguai, a pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 gerou menos afetação em pacientes pediátricos, e o número de casos positivos nessa faixa etária aumentou proporcionalmente ao aumento da circulação do vírus. A forma de apresentação é geralmente assintomática ou com sintomas respiratórios leves a moderados. A Síndrome Inflamatória Multissistêmica Pós-Infecção por SARS-CoV-2 (MIS-C) tem sido descrita como uma das principais complicações pós-infecção. Descreve-se o primeiro caso de paciente com MIS-C na cidade de Paysandú, Uruguai. Ele é um estudante de 6 anos de idade que tinha tido uma infecção por SARS-CoV-2 um mês antes. Apresentou história de febre de 4 dias associada a lesões cutâneas e hiperemia conjuntival e odinofagia, com parâmetros inflamatórios elevados e envolvimento cardiológico. Foi transferido para uma UTI local com boa evolução posterior. O alto índice de suspeita de MIS-C melhora o diagnóstico e, consequentemente, a morbimortalidade da doença.

Epidemiological study of neosporosis in Uruguayan dairy herds.

Neosporosis is one of the leading causes of abortion in cattle worldwide, posing a great economic burden on cattle producers. The aim of this study was to determine the national seroprevalence and putative risk factors of Neospora caninum (N. caninum) in dairy cattle in Uruguay. A cross-sectional study was carried out. Herds were stratified by size (1-50, 51-250, and >250 cattle) and up to 60 dairy cows per herd were randomly selected. Four thousand two hundred twenty-three serum samples from 102 dairy herds were analyzed by indirect ELISA test, under the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition, the herdsman was surveyed and a population study was carried out. The in degree data, geographical coordinates, and seroprevalence of bovine viral diarrhea, enzootic bovine leukemia and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis were available for each herd. A sampling design was used to estimate population seroprevalence of N. caninum. In order to determine the factors associated with the disease, herds with an intra-herd seroprevalence over 20% were considered as case herds. Seroprevalence of N. caninum was 22.3% (95% CI: 18.7-25.9 %) and 96.0% (95% CI: 92.1-99.8%) at the animal and herd level, respectively. The number of dogs on the dairy farms were associated with infection levels (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.03). It was concluded that N. caninum is endemic in the country, and is spreading over dairy herds. Although this study showed evidence that the number of dogs were associated with high levels of infection, more studies should be conducted, to better understand the epidemiology of the disease and thus develop efficient control measures.

Análisis MLVA y perfil de virulencia de aislamientos de Staphylococcus aureus resistentes a la meticilina adquiridos en la comunidad causantes de infecciones pediátricas en Paraguay

Staphylococcus aureus resistente a la meticilina adquirido en la comunidad (SARM-AC) es uno de los principales patógenos causantes de infecciones de piel y partes blandas, aunque también se lo implica en infecciones graves, como osteomielitis y neumonía. El objetivo de este estudio descriptivo fue determinar el tipo de cassette SCCmec, el perfil de virulencia y la variabilidad genética de 21 aislamientos de SARM-AC que infectaron a niños paraguayos en el año 2010. Se determinó por PCR el tipo de cassette SCCmec y los factores de virulencia, en tanto que la variabilidad genética se determinó por la técnica multiple locus variable analysis (MLVA). Todos los aislamientos (100%) presentaron cassette SCCmec IV; algunos portaron factores de virulencia como hla, hlb y sea (el 28,6, el 9,5 y el 4,8%, respectivamente). El análisis MLVA mostró gran variabilidad genética, con datos de antibiotipo y perfil de virulencia congruentes. Este trabajo pone de manifiesto por primera vez en Paraguay la presencia de SARM-AC portador del cassette SCCmec IV con elevada diversidad genética.

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is one of the first causes of skin and soft tissue infections, and can also produce severe diseases such as osteomyelitis and pneumonia. The aim of this descriptive study was to determine the SCCmec type and virulence profile and to study the genetic diversity by MLVA analysis of 21 CA-MRSA isolates that infected Paraguayan children in 2010. The SCCmec type and virulence factors were performed by PCR and genetic diversity by MLVA (multiple locus variable analysis). All the isolates carried SCCmec cassette IV. hla, hlb and sea genes were detected in 28,6%, 9,5% and 4,8% respectively. The MLVA analysis showed high genetic diversity with congruent antibiotic resistance and virulence profiles. This study revealed the presence of CA-MRSA harbouring SCCmec IV with high genetic diversity, providing information not available in our country.

[MLVA analysis and virulence profile of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus causing infections in Paraguayan children]. / Análisis MLVA y perfil de virulencia de aislamientos de Staphylococcus aureus resistentes a la meticilina adquiridos en la comunidad causantes de infecciones pediátricas en Paraguay.

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is one of the first causes of skin and soft tissue infections, and can also produce severe diseases such as osteomyelitis and pneumonia. The aim of this descriptive study was to determine the SCCmec type and virulence profile and to study the genetic diversity by MLVA analysis of 21 CA-MRSA isolates that infected Paraguayan children in 2010. The SCCmec type and virulence factors were performed by PCR and genetic diversity by MLVA (multiple locus variable analysis). All the isolates carried SCCmec cassette iv. hla, hlb and sea genes were detected in 28,6%, 9,5% and 4,8% respectively. The MLVA analysis showed high genetic diversity with congruent antibiotic resistance and virulence profiles. This study revealed the presence of CA-MRSA harbouring SCCmeciv with high genetic diversity, providing information not available in our country.

Series de Pediatría Garrahan. El niño con problemas de la vía aérea superior / Garrahan Pediatrics Series. The child with upper airway problems

Las enfermedades de la vía aérea superior en la infancia constituyen la causa más frecuente de consulta al pediatra y abarcan una diversidad de trastornos cuyo abordaje preciso y oportuno es fundamental. En este nuevo volumen de las Series de Pediatría Garrahan: El niño con problemas de la vía aérea superior se han reunido pediatras con amplia experiencia en el área ambulatoria del Hospital y prestigiosos especialistas en otorrinolaringología pediátrica para resumir y actualizar las claves en el manejo integral de esta problemática. Entre sus características se destacan: El estudio detallado de las patologías clínicas más frecuentes, como otitis media aguda, rinosinusitis, estridor, tos crónica, hipoacusia y faringoamigdalitis, y de las indicaciones de amigdalectomía o adenoidectomía. El abordaje, a través de casos clínicos y de manera dinámica, con la secuencia de presentación clínica, los estudios de diagnósticos, el tratamiento y la evolución de los niños con estas patologías y sus complicaciones. El cierre de cada capítulo con un recordatorio de puntos clave y lecturas recomendadas y, además, material complementario como videos o descripción de procedimientos disponibles en el sitio web. Comparte y transmite una modalidad de trabajo propia del hospital, con base en el rol central del pediatra como coordinador de la atención interdisciplinaria en el marco de su tarea cotidiana junto a los niños y sus familias. Una obra actualizada y práctica que aporta información científica y experiencia de los profesionales de una institución de prestigio. Este tomo y las Series de Pediatría, en su conjunto, serán de gran utilidad para todos aquellos miembros del equipo de salud que atienden y cuidan niños, dondequiera que trabajen al servicio de la salud infantil.

Staphylococcus aureus adquiridos en la comunidad: caracterización clínica, fenotípica y genotípica de aislados en niños paraguayos / Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Paraguayan children: clinical, phenotypic and genotypic characterization

Introduction: The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in the community has increased, being the pediatric population the most affected. This fact highlights the need for epidemiological surveillance. Aim: To characterize clinical, phenotypic and genotypic isolates of S. aureus children’s samples with community-acquired infections, collected in hospitals of Asuncion and the Central Department, between November 2009 and December 2010. Materials and Methods: Descriptive and transverse analysis with analytical component. Clinical data collected by medical records, antibiotic susceptibility according to CLSI criteria and detection of mecA (encoding methicillin resistance) and luk-PV genes (encoding Panton Valentine leucocidin) by PCR using specific oligonucleotides. Results: 123 isolates of S. aureus, 76% came from skin and soft tissue infections and 20% from sepsis. 18.7% (n = 23) were resistant to methicillin (MRSA). The presence of the mecA gene, a variant there and the PVL was detected in 12.2 and 48 isolates respectively. 43% of MRSA (n = 10) was carrying luk-PV. The clinical and demographic differences between patients infected with MRSA or MSSA were not statistically significant. Discussion: This study constitutes the first phenotypic and genotypic characterization of S. aureus associated with pediatric patients in Paraguay.

Introducción: La prevalencia de infecciones por Staphylococcus aureus en la comunidad ha aumentado, siendo la población pediátrica la más afectada; poniendo de relieve la necesidad de una vigilancia epidemiológica. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica, fenotípica y genotípicamente aislados de S. aureus de muestras de niños con infecciones adquiridas en la comunidad, recolectadas en hospitales de Asunción y el Departamento Central, entre noviembre de 2009 y diciembre de 2010. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte trasverso. Datos clínicos fueron recabados de fichas, la susceptibilidad a antimicrobianos se hizo según criterio del CLSI y la detección de genes mecA y luk-PV se realizó por RPC empleando oligonucleótidos específicos. Resultados: De 123 aislados de S. aureus, 76% provenían de infecciones de piel y tejidos blandos y 20% de pacientes con bacteriemias. 18,7% (n: 23) fueron resistentes a meticilina (SARM). Se detectó la presencia de genes mecA, una variante del mismo y luk-PV en 9,8%, 1,6 y 39% de los aislados, respectivamente. El 43% de los SARM (n: 10) fue portador de luk-PV. Las diferencias clínicas y demográficas entre pacientes infectados por SARM o SASM no fueron estadísticamente significativas. Discusión: Este estudio constituye la primera caracterización clínica, fenotípica y genotípica de S. aureus asociados a la comunidad en población pediátrica realizada en Paraguay.

Balance disorders in childhood: Main etiologies according to age. Usefulness of the video head impulse test.

UNLABELLED: Balance disorders are common in adult patients but less usual in the pediatric population. When this symptomatology appears in children it is a cause for concern, both for parents and health-care professionals. OBJECTIVES: To explain the balance disorders in children describing a case series and to discuss the main etiologies found according to age. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective, observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted. POPULATION: Patients aged 1-18 years who consulted because of balance disorders at the otolaryngology department of a pediatric tertiary-care hospital between March 2012 and July 2015. RESULTS: Two hundred and six patients were included in the study. Median age was 10 years. The most common diagnoses were vestibular migraine in 21.8% of the children, ataxia in 9.22%, benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood in 7.77%, and post-traumatic vertigo in 6.31%.Overall, 61 videonystagmographies- of which 46 were normal - and 55 video head impulse tests - which were normal in 45 and showed abnormalities in the vestibulo-ocular reflex gain in 10 - were performed. CONCLUSIONS: In a child with balance disorders, the medical history and neurotological examination are essential. Vestibular migraine is the most commonly found disorder in every age group, and most of the patients have a family history of migraine. Ancillary studies, especially the video head-impulse test, provide important data to confirm the diagnosis.

[Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Paraguayan children: clinical, phenotypic and genotypic characterization]. / Staphylococcus aureus adquiridos en la comunidad: caracterización clínica, fenotípica y genotípica de aislados en niños paraguayos.

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in the community has increased, being the pediatric population the most affected. This fact highlights the need for epidemiological surveillance. AIM: To characterize clinical, phenotypic and genotypic isolates of S. aureus children's samples with community-acquired infections, collected in hospitals of Asuncion and the Central Department, between November 2009 and December 2010. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive and transverse analysis with analytical component. Clinical data collected by medical records, antibiotic susceptibility according to CLSI criteria and detection of mecA (encoding methicillin resistance) and luk-PV genes (encoding Panton Valentine leucocidin) by PCR using specific oligonucleotides. RESULTS: 123 isolates of S. aureus, 76% came from skin and soft tissue infections and 20% from sepsis. 18.7% (n = 23) were resistant to methicillin (MRSA). The presence of the mecA gene, a variant there and the PVL was detected in 12.2 and 48 isolates respectively. 43% of MRSA (n = 10) was carrying luk-PV. The clinical and demographic differences between patients infected with MRSA or MSSA were not statistically significant. DISCUSSION: This study constitutes the first phenotypic and genotypic characterization of S. aureus associated with pediatric patients in Paraguay.

Acute otitis media in infants younger than three months not vaccinated against Streptococcus pneumoniae.

UNLABELLED: The true incidence of acute otitis media (AOM) in neonates and infants younger than three months is unknown. In this population organisms causing AOM may disseminate leading to bacteremia, sepsis, and meningitis [1]. OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical presentation, associated severe infections, bacteriologic etiology, and antibiotic resistance patterns of organisms isolated from the middle ear of infants younger than three months that were not vaccinated against Streptococcus pneumoniae. METHODS: Otomicroscopy was performed in all children to confirm the suspected diagnosis of AOM. When purulent effusion retained in the middle ear was diagnosed, tympanocentesis and culture of middle-ear fluid was performed by conventional methods. Serotyping was done using the Quellung technique. RESULTS: From May 2, 2009 to February 28, 2010, 52 infants met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-six were male (69.2%) and 16 were female (30.8%). From these 52 patients, 76 samples were obtained for culture. Bilateral acute suppurative otitis media was diagnosed in 24 (46.2%) infants. Of all infants, 18 (34.6%) had been treated with antibiotics before tympanocentesis. Eight patients (44.4%) had negative middle-ear fluid cultures. Sixty bacterial pathogens were isolated from the middle-ear fluid of 43 patients. Mixed infections were recorded in 14/52 patients (26.9%). Nine cultures were negative (17.3%), of which eight were from patients that had previously been treated with antibiotics. S. pneumoniae was isolated from middle-ear aspirates of 26/52 (50%) patients with acute suppurative otitis media. Twenty-two out of the 26 isolates were susceptible (84.7%) and four were intermediately susceptible to penicillin (15.3%). Streptococcus pyogenes was isolated in 3/52 (5.8%) and Haemophilus influenzae in 18/52 patients (34.6%). Five (27.8%) of these were beta-lactamase producers. Blood cultures, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine cultures were negative. Parenteral antimicrobial treatment was indicated in 29/52 (56%). CONCLUSIONS: S. pneumoniae is the most frequent pathogen to cause AOM in this age group. Empirical treatment with amoxicillin or ceftriaxone should be considered depending on clinical suspicion of severe invasive infection.

Diecisiete casos de complicaciones intratemporales de otitis media aguda en niños en dos años / Intratemporal complications from acute otitis media in children: 17 cases in two years

Introducción: Para describir las características clínicas de los niños con complicaciones intratemporales de otitis media aguda (OMA), se realizó un trabajo retrospectivo y descriptivo durante dos años. Métodos: Se consideró mastoiditis al eritema y edema retroauricular, protrusión del pabellón auricular y caída de la pared posterior del conducto auditivo externo; laberintitis, al vértigo con o sin náuseas, vómitos y nistagmus, y parálisis facial periférica, a la ausencia o disminución de la movilidad en hemicara. Previa otomicroscopía para diagnóstico de enfermedad otológica aguda coexistente, se tomó material para estudio bacteriológico de oído medio, de absceso subperióstico o de cavidad mastoidea. Resultados: Edad media: 54,23 meses; 30% menores de 12 meses; 12/17 masculinos y 5/17 femeninos; 8/17 recibían antibioticoterapia; 7/17 presentaban fiebre; 9/17 (52,9%) con mastoiditis aguda; 7/17 (41,2%) con laberintitis y 1/17 (5,9%) con parálisis facial periférica. El 17,6% presentó complicaciones endocraneales. Todos requirieron antibioticoterapia parenteral. Se realizó miringotomía en 16/17 (94,1%); drenaje de absceso subperióstico en 3/17 (17,6%) y antromastoidectomía en 2/17 (11,8%). La bacteriología fue positiva en 9/17, aislándose Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) en el 44% de los casos. Secuelas: una hipoacusia neurosensorial. Entre enero de 2008 y diciembre de 2009 fueron asistidos 17 pacientes con complicaciones intratemporales de OMA. Conclusión: La mastoiditis aguda es la complicación intratemporal más frecuente. S. pyogenes es prevalente en estas infecciones invasivas en nuestro medio. La resolución de la OMA complicada requiere procedimientos quirúrgicos en todos los casos (miringotomía, drenaje de absceso subperióstico o antromastoidectomía) y tratamiento antimicrobiano parenteral(AU)

Background: To describe the clinical features of intratemporal complications of acute otitis media (AOM) in children, a retrospective study was carried out for two years. Methods: We considered acute mastoiditis, presence of postauricular swelling, erythema and tenderness and anteroinferior displacement of the auricle; labyrinthitis, presence of vestibular symptoms (spontaneous nystagmus and ataxia with or without vomiting; and facial nerve palsy, absence or decreased motility in hemiface. All children underwent otomicroscopy for evidence of coexistent or recent AOM. Cultures were obtained by tympanocentesis and myringotomy, drainage of subperiosteal abscess or from granulation tissue during tympanomastoidectomy. Results: From January 2008 to December 2009, 17 patients fulfilled the entry criteria. Median age: 54.2 months. Of the 17 cases, 30% were infants younger than twelve months and most were boys (70.6%).8/17 were receiving antimicrobial treatment. Diagnoses included 9/17 (52.9%) acute mastoiditis, 7/17 (41.2%) labyrinthitis and 1/17 (5.9%) facial nerve palsy. Intracranial complications were present in 17.6%. All required intravenous antimicrobial treatment. Myringotomy was performed in 16/17, drainage of subperiosteal abscess in 3/17 and tympanomastoidectomy in 2/17. Bacteriology was positive in 9/17 cases, isolating Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) in 44% of patients. Secuelaes: One unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. Conclusions: Acute mastoiditis is the most common complication. Labyrinthitis was diagnosed in 41.2% of cases. S. pyogenes was prevalent in these serious invasive infections in our area. Associated intracranial complications were present in 17.6% cases. Resolution of AOM complications required surgical procedures in all cases (myringotomy, drainage of subperiosteal abscess or tympanomastoidectomy) (AU)

Intratemporal complications from acute otitis media in children: 17 cases in two years.

BACKGROUND: To describe the clinical features of intratemporal complications of acute otitis media (AOM) in children, a retrospective study was carried out for two years. METHODS: We considered acute mastoiditis, presence of postauricular swelling, erythema and tenderness and anteroinferior displacement of the auricle; labyrinthitis, presence of vestibular symptoms (spontaneous nystagmus and ataxia with or without vomiting; and facial nerve palsy, absence or decreased motility in hemiface. All children underwent otomicroscopy for evidence of coexistent or recent AOM. Cultures were obtained by tympanocentesis and myringotomy, drainage of subperiosteal abscess or from granulation tissue during tympanomastoidectomy. RESULTS: From January 2008 to December 2009, 17 patients fulfilled the entry criteria. Median age: 54.2 months. Of the 17 cases, 30% were infants younger than twelve months and most were boys (70.6%). 8/17 were receiving antimicrobial treatment. Diagnoses included 9/17 (52.9%) acute mastoiditis, 7/17 (41.2%) labyrinthitis and 1/17 (5.9%) facial nerve palsy. Intracranial complications were present in 17.6%. All required intravenous antimicrobial treatment. Myringotomy was performed in 16/17, drainage of subperiosteal abscess in 3/17 and tympanomastoidectomy in 2/17. Bacteriology was positive in 9/17 cases, isolating Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) in 44% of patients. Secuelaes: One unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. CONCLUSIONS: Acute mastoiditis is the most common complication. Labyrinthitis was diagnosed in 41.2% of cases. S. pyogenes was prevalent in these serious invasive infections in our area. Associated intracranial complications were present in 17.6% cases. Resolution of AOM complications required surgical procedures in all cases (myringotomy, drainage of subperiosteal abscess or tympanomastoidectomy).

Postes de base orgánica y resistencia del remanente dentario: modelo experimental / Organic-based posts and resistance of the tooth remainder: an experimental model

Se han desarrollado postes de base orgánica para ser utlilizados en piezas dentarias con tratamiento endodóntico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar, mediante un modelo experimental, la resistencia a la fractura del remanente dentario cuando se utiliza este tipo de postes, en comparación con la obtenida mediante otros de base metálica. Se confeccionaron varillas cilíndricas de 20mm. de largo y 3mm. de diámetro con aleaciones metálicas (Ni-Cr Y Cu-Al) y con materiales de base orgánica (resina acrílica y resina reforzada). Se incluyeron las varillas en cilindros de yeso piedra mejorado dejando expuestos 5mm. Después de fraguado, sobre el extremo expuesto de las varillas se aplicaron cargas compresivas crecientes y se registró la fuerza en Newton necesaria para producir la fractura del yeso. Los valores medios de fuerza requerida para producir este efecto fueron significativamente mayores en el caso de ls varillas metálicas. Se considera que estas diferencias podrían deberse a que la mayor deformación que se produce en el material orgánico generó tensiones traccionales y flexurales que no pudieron ser absorbidas por el yeso. Los postes de base orgánica no estarían indicados en situaciones clínicas en las que el esfuerzo oclusal se concentre directamente sobre ellos

Postes de base orgánica y resistencia del remanente dentario: modelo experimental / Organic-based posts and resistance of the tooth remainder: an experimental model

Se han desarrollado postes de base orgánica para ser utlilizados en piezas dentarias con tratamiento endodóntico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar, mediante un modelo experimental, la resistencia a la fractura del remanente dentario cuando se utiliza este tipo de postes, en comparación con la obtenida mediante otros de base metálica. Se confeccionaron varillas cilíndricas de 20mm. de largo y 3mm. de diámetro con aleaciones metálicas (Ni-Cr Y Cu-Al) y con materiales de base orgánica (resina acrílica y resina reforzada). Se incluyeron las varillas en cilindros de yeso piedra mejorado dejando expuestos 5mm. Después de fraguado, sobre el extremo expuesto de las varillas se aplicaron cargas compresivas crecientes y se registró la fuerza en Newton necesaria para producir la fractura del yeso. Los valores medios de fuerza requerida para producir este efecto fueron significativamente mayores en el caso de ls varillas metálicas. Se considera que estas diferencias podrían deberse a que la mayor deformación que se produce en el material orgánico generó tensiones traccionales y flexurales que no pudieron ser absorbidas por el yeso. Los postes de base orgánica no estarían indicados en situaciones clínicas en las que el esfuerzo oclusal se concentre directamente sobre ellos (AU)

Resistencia flexural de composites sobre distintas bases / Flexural strength of composites on different base materials

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la resistencia flexural de un bloque de composite cuando es ubicado sobre tres bases diferentes. Fueron confeccionadas probetas en las que la medida de su espesor (2 mm.) estaba representada por una capa de 1 mm. confeccionada con un cemento de ionómero vítreo convencional, un cemento de ionómero vítreo modificado con resinas y un compómero, y el resto por un composite de alto contenido cerámico. Se determinó su resistencia flexural sometiéndolos a cargas sobre la superficie correspondiente al composite. Los valores medios en MPa obtenidos fueron 27,5; 84, 3 y 104,3 para las probetas con base de ionómero, ionómero modificado y compómero, respectivamente. Las diferencias fueron estadísticamente significativas, por lo que puede concluirse que la resistencia flexural de un bloque de composite ubicado sobre un relleno cavitario es influida por las propiedades mecánicas del material empleado para confeccionar este último

Resistencia flexural de composites sobre distintas bases / Flexural strength of composites on different base materials

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la resistencia flexural de un bloque de composite cuando es ubicado sobre tres bases diferentes. Fueron confeccionadas probetas en las que la medida de su espesor (2 mm.) estaba representada por una capa de 1 mm. confeccionada con un cemento de ionómero vítreo convencional, un cemento de ionómero vítreo modificado con resinas y un compómero, y el resto por un composite de alto contenido cerámico. Se determinó su resistencia flexural sometiéndolos a cargas sobre la superficie correspondiente al composite. Los valores medios en MPa obtenidos fueron 27,5; 84, 3 y 104,3 para las probetas con base de ionómero, ionómero modificado y compómero, respectivamente. Las diferencias fueron estadísticamente significativas, por lo que puede concluirse que la resistencia flexural de un bloque de composite ubicado sobre un relleno cavitario es influida por las propiedades mecánicas del material empleado para confeccionar este último (AU)