Oxidative stress and epilepsy: literature review.

BACKGROUNDS: The production of free radicals has a role in the regulation of biological function, cellular damage, and the pathogenesis of central nervous system conditions. Epilepsy is a highly prevalent serious brain disorder, and oxidative stress is regarded as a possible mechanism involved in epileptogenesis. Experimental studies suggest that oxidative stress is a contributing factor to the onset and evolution of epilepsy. OBJECTIVE: A review was conducted to investigate the link between oxidative stress and seizures, and oxidative stress and age as risk factors for epilepsy. The role of oxidative stress in seizure induction and propagation is also discussed. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS: Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in neuronal death and seizures. There is evidence that suggests that antioxidant therapy may reduce lesions induced by oxidative free radicals in some animal seizure models. Studies have demonstrated that mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with chronic oxidative stress and may have an essential role in the epileptogenesis process; however, few studies have shown an established link between oxidative stress, seizures, and age.

[Aspects of the nursing appointments with hypertensive patients cared for in the Family Health Program]. / Aspectos contemplados na consulta de enfermagem ao paciente com hipertensão atendido no Programa Saúde da Família.

The objective was to observe the aspects of nursing appointments undergone by hypertensive patients. This is a descriptive study, developed in three healthcare centers in the city of Fortaleza. The subjects were 13 nurses, and data collection comprised the observation of three of each nurse's appointments, followed by an interview with this professional. It was observed that, during the anamnesis, the previous treatment, the ingestion of hypertensive substances and the existence of associated risk factors were identified. Inspections of the patient's appearance, blood pressure and weight were also evident. The identified categories were: aspects of the nurse's role in basic healthtcare; treatment of hypertension and day-to-day difficulties of people with this disease. We conclude that many aspects are not being approached during the nursing appointments, which can result in a low-quality healthcare service provided for people cared for the hypertension program in these basic healthcare centers.