Sexual effects and long-term outcomes of endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy for plantar hyperhidrosis in men: a cross-sectional study / Efeitos sexuais e resultados a longo prazo da simpatectomia lombar endoscópica para hiperidrose plantar em homens: um estudo transversal

Abstract Background Plantar hyperhidrosis (PHH) is a disease with high psychosocial impact, and endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy (ELS) has been shown to be the best choice for treatment, but with some concerns such as compensatory sweating (CS) and sexual effects (SE), particularly in men. Objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of ELS for controlling PHH in men, its side effects, and perceived sexual modifications. Methods A cross-sectional study including only male patients operated for PHH with ELS between 2014-2022 at a private practice. During remote interviews, patients were asked about symptoms before and after ELS and about the postoperative effects on PHH. They were also objectively asked about any SE during the postoperative period. Validated quality of life for hyperhidrosis and erectile function questionnaires were also administered. Results 10 male patients averaging 4.26±2.86 years post-ELS were interviewed. Eight of them (80%) achieved complete response (≥80% of sweat reduction) in the first month after surgery and this response was maintained up to the interview date. Two patients had partial response. In six patients, CS occurred, with 5 reporting it as non-troublesome. Six patients reported some type of SE, but none reported erectile dysfunction. Regarding the functional results, all patients rated ELS from good (10%) to very good (30%) or excellent (60%). Conclusions Endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy was effective for treatment of plantar hyperhidrosis in these patients, improving their quality of life and providing lasting PHH control, with some transient sexual dysfunctions that did not impair their sexual life.

Resumo Contexto A hiperidrose plantar (HHP) é uma doença de alto impacto psicossocial, e a simpatectomia lombar endoscópica (SLE) tem se mostrado a melhor escolha de tratamento. Porém, há algumas preocupações como suor compensatório (SC) e efeitos sexuais (ES), particularmente em homens. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia a longo prazo da SLE para controlar a HHP em homens, seus efeitos colaterais e as modificações sexuais percebidas. Métodos Tratou-se de um estudo transversal incluindo apenas pacientes do sexo masculino operados de HHP por meio de SLE entre 2014 e 2022 em consultório particular. Por meio de entrevistas remotas, os pacientes foram questionados sobre os sintomas antes e depois da SLE e sobre a evolução pós-operatória da HHP, assim como foram questionados objetivamente sobre qualquer ES percebido durante o pós-operatório. Também foram aplicados questionários validados de qualidade de vida para hiperidrose e função erétil. Resultados Foram entrevistados 10 pacientes do sexo masculino com média de 4,26±2,86 anos pós-SLE. Oito deles (80%) obtiveram resposta completa (≥80% de redução do suor) no primeiro mês após a cirurgia e mantiveram a resposta na entrevista. Dois pacientes tiveram resposta parcial. Em seis pacientes, ocorreu SC, com cinco relatando-a como não problemática. Seis pacientes relataram algum tipo de ES, mas nenhum apresentou disfunção erétil. Todos os pacientes avaliaram o resultado funcional da SLE como bom (10%), muito bom (30%) ou excelente (60%). Conclusões A SLE pode tratar de forma eficaz a HHP nesses pacientes, melhorando a qualidade de vida e proporcionando efeitos duradouros no controle da HHP, com algumas disfunções sexuais transitórias que não prejudicam a vida sexual.

Impacto psicológico de la hiperhidrosis primaria / Psychological impact of primary hyperhidrosis / Impacto psicológico da hiperidrose primária

La hiperhidrosis primaria es una patología frecuente que representa un motivo de consulta dermatológica común, se caracterizada por una sudoración excesiva en regiones axilares, plantares, palmares o craneofaciales que aparece generalmente en la pubertad o en la adolescencia, sus portadores con frecuencia desarrollan discapacidad psicológica como síntomas de depresión, ansiedad y auto aislamiento social. Objetivo. Identificar el impacto la hiperhidrosis primaria produce en la calidad de vida de los pacientes, mediante el análisis de la efectividad de tratamientos disponibles para la mejora de síntomas generados antes su padecimiento. Metodología. En la revisión sistemática se recopiló información científica en Pubmed, Scopus y Taylor & Francis, la información obtenida fue de artículos originales y metaanálisis comprendido entre enero de 2011 a diciembre de 2022, la ecuación de búsqueda "hiperhidrosis", "psicología", "salud mental" y "calidad de vida. Resultados. Se obtuvo 127 fuentes entre PubMed, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, se revisó y eliminó los duplicados y los artículos carentes de información de interés, seleccionando 41 artículos, y posteriormente se aplicó a los artículos restantes los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, obteniéndose finalmente 8 artículos para el análisis. Conclusión. El principal impacto psicológico de la hiperhidrosis primaria es la ansiedad y la depresión, las cuales se pueden evidenciar con mayor prevalencia en pacientes de sexo femenino y la repercusión principal en la vida diaria es el aislamiento social, donde el apoyo de sus familiares juega un papel importante en las recuperaciones del paciente, además se desconoce la causa directa de la enfermedad, siendo su causa multifactorial.

Primary hyperhidrosis is a common pathology that represents a common reason for dermatologic consultation, characterized by excessive sweating in axillary, plantar, palmar or craniofacial regions that usually appears at puberty or adolescence, its carriers often develop psychological disability such as symptoms of depression, anxiety and social self-isolation. Objective. To identify the impact of primary hyperhidrosis on the quality of life of patients, by analyzing the effectiveness of available treatments for the improvement of symptoms generated before the condition. Methodology. In the systematic review, scientific information was collected in Pubmed, Scopus and Taylor & Francis, the information obtained was from original articles and meta-analysis from January 2011 to December 2022, the search equation "hyperhidrosis", "psychology", "mental health" and "quality of life". Results. We obtained 127 sources among PubMed, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, reviewed and eliminated duplicates and articles lacking information of interest, selecting 41 articles, and then applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria to the remaining articles, finally obtaining 8 articles for analysis. Conclusion. The main psychological impact of primary hyperhidrosis is anxiety and depression, which are more prevalent in female patients, and the main repercussion in daily life is social isolation, where the support of family members plays an important role in the patient's recovery, and the direct cause of the disease is unknown, being its cause multifactorial.

A hiperidrose primária é uma patologia comum que representa um motivo frequente de consulta dermatológica, caracterizada por sudorese excessiva nas regiões axilar, plantar, palmar ou craniofacial, que geralmente aparece na puberdade ou na adolescência, e seus portadores frequentemente desenvolvem deficiência psicológica, como sintomas de depressão, ansiedade e autoisolamento social. Objetivo. Identificar o impacto da hiperidrose primária na qualidade de vida dos pacientes, analisando a eficácia dos tratamentos disponíveis para a melhora dos sintomas gerados antes da doença. Metodologia. Na revisão sistemática, foram coletadas informações científicas no Pubmed, Scopus e Taylor & Francis, as informações obtidas foram de artigos originais e meta-análises entre janeiro de 2011 e dezembro de 2022, a equação de busca "hyperhidrosis", "psychology", "mental health" e "quality of life". Resultados. Obtivemos 127 fontes do PubMed, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, revisamos e eliminamos duplicatas e artigos sem informações de interesse, selecionando 41 artigos e, em seguida, aplicamos os critérios de inclusão e exclusão aos artigos restantes, obtendo finalmente 8 artigos para análise. Conclusão. O principal impacto psicológico da hiperidrose primária é a ansiedade e a depressão, que são mais prevalentes em pacientes do sexo feminino, e a principal repercussão na vida diária é o isolamento social, em que o apoio dos familiares desempenha um papel importante na recuperação do paciente. Além disso, a causa direta da doença é desconhecida, pois é multifatorial.

Evaluation of quality of life (QOL) of young patients with primary hyperhidrosis (PH) before and after endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS).

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis (PH) affects young patients and may cause emotional distress and a negative quality of life (QOL). OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate the QOL of children and adolescents with PH treated by endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy. METHODS: A study of 220 patients was performed, based on submitted QOL questionnaires from their first consultation. Patients were evaluated within 1 week and 24 months after surgery. RESULTS: Before endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, the QOL in relation to PH was declared very poor by 141 patients, and poor by the remaining 79 (P = .552). Postoperative cure was reported in 100% of palmar and axillary PH cases, and in 91.7% of facial PH. After 24 months, the QOL was described as much better by 212 patients, a little better by 6 patients, and 2 patients reported no change. LIMITATIONS: Convenience sampling was used and patients were taken from private practice only, raising the possibility of bias in gathering the data. CONCLUSION: Onset of PH symptoms was mainly before the age of 10 years and substantially affected daily activities. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy cured PH and promoted significant improvement in the QOL of these young patients.

Hyperhidrosis in sleep disorders - A narrative review of mechanisms and clinical significance.

Hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating beyond thermoregulatory needs that affects patients' quality of life. It results from an excessive stimulation of eccrine sweat glands in the skin by the sympathetic nervous system. Hyperhidrosis may be primary or secondary to an underlying cause. Nocturnal hyperhidrosis is associated with different sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movement during sleep and narcolepsy. The major cause of the hyperhidrosis is sympathetic overactivity and, in the case of narcolepsy type 1, orexin deficiency may also contribute. In this narrative review, we will provide an outline of the possible mechanisms underlying sudomotor dysfunction and the resulting nocturnal hyperhidrosis in these different sleep disorders and explore its clinical relevance.

Síndrome de arlequim idiopática: sucesso terapêutico com toxina botulínica / Idiopathic harlequin syndrome: successful therapy with botulium toxin

A síndrome de arlequim é uma rara desordem autonômica que se caracteriza por anidrose e falta de rubor unilateral da face, podendo acometer as regiões cervical e torácica. De forma paradoxal, há rubor e sudorese compensatórios no lado contralateral à alteração. É idiopática na maioria dos casos, mas pode ser congênita, secundária a lesões estruturais e à iatrogenia pós-cirúrgica. O tratamento é direcionado ao fator causal. Descreve-se caso de paciente com diagnóstico de síndrome de arlequim idiopática, sendo realizada aplicação de toxina botulínica na hemiface acometida pelos sintomas compensatórios com boa resposta terapêutica

Harlequin syndrome is a rare autonomic disorder characterized by anhidrosis and lack of unilateral flushing of the face, which may affect the cervical and thoracic regions. Paradoxically, there is compensatory flushing and sweating on the contralateral side to the alteration. It is idiopathic in most cases, but it can be congenital or secondary to structural or post-surgical iatrogenic lesions. Treatment is directed at the causative factor. We describe the case of a patient with a diagnosis of idiopathic Harlequin Syndrome with botulinum toxin application in the hemiface affected by compensatory symptoms with good therapeutic response.

La sudoración compensatoria como efecto secundario en la cirugía de la hiperhidrosis palmar primaria / Compensatory Sweating as a Side Effect of Surgical Treatment of Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis

Introducción: La sudoración compensatoria es un efecto secundario de la simpaticotomía videotoracoscópica, que tiene una alta incidencia y puede provocar insatisfacción en los pacientes operados. Objetivo: Determinar el comportamiento de la sudoración compensatoria en los pacientes en que se les realizó una simpaticotomía videotoracoscópica por hiperhidrosis palmar. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, transversal y descriptivo de 42 pacientes que tras la cirugía por hiperhidrosis palmar presentaron sudor compensatorio. Se analizó la incidencia, localización, severidad, afectación de la calidad de vida y nivel de satisfacción. Resultados: Predominó la sudoración compensatoria ligera, la localización en la espalda y el abdomen. Hubo un alto nivel de tolerancia, con solo un paciente insatisfecho y un 100 por ciento de mejoría de la calidad de vida. Conclusiones: La sudoración compensatoria no influyó negativamente en la calidad de vida de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Compensatory sweating is a side effect of videothoracoscopic sympathectomy. It presents high incidence and may cause dissatisfaction to operated patients. Objective: To determine the characteristics of compensatory sweating in patients who underwent videothoracoscopic sympathectomy for palmar hyperhidrosis. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out with 42 patients who presented compensatory sweating after surgery for palmar hyperhidrosis. Incidence, location, severity, change in quality of life and level of satisfaction were analyzed. Results: Light compensatory sweating predominated, with location on back and abdomen. There was a high level of tolerance, with only one dissatisfied patient and 100 percent of improvement in quality of life. Conclusions: Compensatory sweating did not influence negatively the patients' quality of life(AU)

Cohort study on 20 years' experience of bilateral video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy (VATS) for treatment of hyperhidrosis in 2431 patients

Abstract BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating, inconsistent with the needs for thermoregulation. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness and the change in the quality of life of patients undergoing bilateral VATS (video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy) for treatment of hyperhidrosis, in a large case series. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cohort study conducted in a tertiary hospital specializing in hyperhidrosis located in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: A total of 2,431 patients who underwent surgery consisting of bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy between January 2000 and February 2017 were retrospectively assessed in an outpatient clinic specializing in hyperhidrosis. The patients underwent clinical and quality of life assessments on two occasions: firstly, prior to surgery, and subsequently, one month after the operation. The presence or absence of compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH) and general satisfaction after the first postoperative month were also evaluated. RESULTS: All the patients operated had poor or very poor quality of life before surgery. In the postoperative period, an improvement in the quality of life was observed in more than 90% of the patients. Only 10.7% of the patients did not present CH, and severe CH occurred in 22.1% of the patients in this sample. CONCLUSION: Bilateral VATS is a therapeutic method that decreases the degree of sweating more than 90% of patients with palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. It improves the quality of life for more than 90% of the patients, at the expense of development of CH in approximately 90% of the patients, but not intensely.

Unexpected improvement of hyperhidrosis with cannabidiol

ABSTRACT Hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating and it affects almost 5% of the population. The affected age group is wide, and it can affect from children to elderlies. There are two types of hyperhidrosis: generalized and focal. Treatment depends on the symptoms presented. In more severe cases, radiofrequency sympatholysis and bilateral thoracic sympathectomy are the options. However, recurrence is possible or the postoperative appearance of conditions called compensatory hyperhidrosis or reflex hyperhidrosis. We describe two cases of patients treated with Cannabidiol who had significant and unexpected improvement of hyperhidrosis. The first patient received Cannabidiol specific for public presentations at work, and the second patient had a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. The hyperhidrosis improved in both patients immediately after using Cannabidiol.

Calidad de vida luego de simpaticotomía toracoscópica por hiperhidrosis focal primaria / Quality of life after thoracoscopic sympathectomy for primary focal hyperhidrosis

RESUMEN Antecedentes: la simpaticotomía toracoscópica demostró ser una cirugía segura para el tratamiento de la hiperhidrosis focal primaria (HFP); sin embargo, la calidad de vida no es totalmente satisfactoria en algunos pacientes, teniendo en cuenta la sudoración compensatoria como principal efecto adverso. Objetivo: evaluar la calidad de vida de los pacientes operados por HFP mediante simpaticotomía toracoscópica utilizando una encuesta anónima posoperatoria. Material y métodos: se incluyó una serie consecutiva de pacientes operados de simpaticotomía toracoscópica entre agosto de 2016 y agosto de 2019. Se excluyeron pacientes que no respondieron a la encuesta de calidad de vida telefónica o cuyo tiempo de seguimiento fue menor de 6 meses. Se evaluaron variables clínicas, quirúrgicas y posoperatorias. Resultados: durante este período se operaron 61 pacientes; del total de la muestra se excluyeron 12 pacientes. El promedio de edad fue 28,9 años. Todos tenían hiperhidrosis primaria palmar y/o axilar moderada o grave, asociadas o no a rubor facial o hiperhidrosis plantar. La encuesta fue respondida por 49 pacientes; de esta observamos una resolución total de la HFP en 32 pacientes (65,3%) y parcial en 17 pacientes (34,6%), con un porcentaje de sudoración compensatoria del 61% (30 pacientes), de los cuales a 4 (8%) la sudoración compensatoria les alteró su calidad de vida, provocando malestar e insatisfacción, la mayoría transitorios. Con un tiempo promedio de 36 meses (6-72), el 97,9% (48 pacientes) sí recomendarían realizar el procedimiento. Conclusión: la simpaticotomía toracoscópica bilateral continúa siendo el tratamiento más eficaz para HFP. El nivel de satisfacción de los pacientes operados fue elevado. Si bien la sudoración compensatoria fue el efecto adverso más frecuente, generalmente se presentó de manera leve y transitoria.

ABSTRACT Background: Thoracoscopic sympathectomy demonstrated to be a safe surgical procedure for the management of primary focal hyperhidrosis (PFH); however, some patients are not completely satisfied with their quality of life as compensatory sweating is the main adverse event. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of life of patients with PFH undergoing thoracoscopic sympathectomy using an anonymous postoperative survey. Material and methods: Consecutive patients undergoing thoracoscopic sympathectomy between August 2016 and August 2019 were included. Patients who did not respond the telephone survey about their quality of life or who had been followed up for < 6 months. Clinical, intraoperative and postoperative variables were analyzed. Results: During this period 61 patients were operated on and 12 of them were excluded. Mean age was 28.9 years. All the patients presented moderate or severe primary palmar and/or axillary hyperhidrosis with or without facial flushing or plantar hyperhidrosis. Forty-nine patients responded the survey. Surgery completely solved PFH in 32 patients (65.3%) while 17 patients (34.6%) achieved a partial relief; 61% (30 patients) developed compensatory sweating affecting the quality of life in 4 (8%) causing transient discomfort and dissatisfaction in most cases. After a mean follow-up of 36 months (6-72), 97.9% (48 patients) recommended the procedure. Conclusion: Bilateral thoracoscopic sympathectomy is still the most efficient treatment for PFH with high level of satisfaction among the patients operated on. Compensatory sweating was the most common adverse effect and is mild and transient in most cases.

Rotura espontánea de quiste hepático simple: éxito del tratamiento conservador / Spontaneous rupture of a simple liver cyst: success of a conservative approach

RESUMEN Los quistes hepáticos simples (QHS) son las lesiones hepáticas más frecuentes. Cursan habitualmente asintomáticas, aunque cuando alcanzan gran tamaño pueden causar síntomas. El objetivo del presente artículo es presentar una complicación excepcional de los QHS. Presentamos a una mujer de 61 años con historia de QHS múltiples que acude a Urgencias por dolor abdominal brusco sin antecedente traumático. Ante la sospecha de rotura quística espontánea, se realiza tomografía computarizada (TC) abdominal que confirma el diagnóstico. Se decide tratamiento conservador con buena evolución. Tras el episodio agudo es intervenida quirúrgicamente realizándose destechamiento de los quistes. a rotura de los QHS es una complicación excepcional que habitualmente cursa con dolor abdominal. Debido a su baja frecuencia no existe un tratamiento estándar. Se acepta que el tratamiento conservador es una buena opción en pacientes sin signos de peritonitis, mientras que la cirugía urgente está indicada en pacientes con abdomen agudo.

ABSTRACT Simple liver cysts (SLC) are the most common liver tumors. They are usually asymptomatic but large cysts may produce symptoms. The aim of this article is to report a rare complication of SLC. We report the case of a 61-year-old woman with a history of multiple SLCs who sought medical care due to sudden abdominal pain not associated with trauma. A probable diagnosis of spontaneous rupture was made, and the patient underwent computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen which confirmed the suspicion. Conservative treatment was decided, with favorable outcome. After the acute episode the patient underwent surgery and the cysts were unroofed. Rupture of SLC is a rare complication that usually presents with abdominal pain. There is no standard of care due to the low incidence of this complication. The conservative approach is a good option in patients without signs of peritonitis, while emergency surgery is indicated in patients with acute abdomen.

Prevalência da hiperidrose primária e seu impacto no trabalho de profissionais de saúde / Prevalence of primary hyperidrosis and its impact on the work of health professionals

Avaliar a prevalência e o impacto da Hiperidrose Primária (HP) nas atividades laborais de profissionais de saúde de um hospital público referência em urgência e emergência. Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal, descritiva, exploratória e quantitativa, realizada com profissionais de saúde de um hospital público referência em urgência e emergência do Estado de Sergipe, Brasil. Os instrumentos utilizados foram o questionário critérios de diagnósticos, de qualidade de vida e sobre impacto da HP nas atividades laborais. Empregaram-se os testes Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney. Participaram do estudo 658 profissionais; a prevalência de HP encontrada foi 11%. Dos portadores de HP, 43% relataram apresentar dificuldades durante as atividades laborativas. Todas as atividades laborais no âmbito da saúde foram referidas com limitações na sua execução pelos profissionais avaliados, sendo a mais referida a escrita (88%), seguida da utilização de equipamentos de proteção individual (81%). A HP teve prevalência relevante nos profissionais de saúde com comprometimento negativo importante na sua qualidade de vida e laboral.

To evaluate the prevalence and impact of Primary Hyperhidrosis (PH) on the work activities of health professionals at a public hospital, a reference in Urgency and Emergency. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, exploratory, quantitative study carried out with health professionals from a public hospital that is a reference in Urgency and Emergency in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. The instruments used were the questionnaire on diagnostic criteria, quality of life and the impact of PH on work activities. The Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were applied. Participants of this study were 658 professionals; the prevalence of PH was 11%. Among the patients with PH, 43% reported having difficulties during work activities. All work activities in the health field were mentioned with limitations in execution by the evaluated professionals, the most mentioned were writing (88%), followed by the use of personal protective equipment (81%). PH had a relevant prevalence in health professionals with significant negative impairment in their quality of life and work.

Thoracic sympathectomy for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis: systematic review and proportional meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Primary hyperhidrosis is a disorder that involves excessive sweat production, which has a negative impact on the quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy (VATS) for treating primary axillary hyperhidrosis (PAH) and determine which level of ganglion resection offers the best outcome. METHOD: This was a systematic review and proportional meta-analysis of observational studies. The result was evaluated for satisfaction, control of symptoms, compensatory sweating and complications. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare the sympathetic trunk resection at high and low levels. RESULTS: Thirteen studies were selected with a total of 1463 patients. The satisfaction rate was 92% (95% CI = 88-95%, I2=47.5%), the symptom control rate was 96% (95% CI = 93-99%, I2=48.2%), and the presence of compensatory sweating could not be assessed because of high heterogeneity among studies. The complications were rare. CONCLUSION: This review demonstrated that thoracic sympathectomy by VATS is a viable and safe option for the treatment of PAH. There was no difference between high and lower levels of resection. However, the estimation of the effect is quite uncertain because the quality of evidence was extremely low.Key messagePure axillary hyperhidrosis has great potential to compromise quality of life.Surgery should be indicated only when clinical treatment fails.Thoracic sympathectomy by video-assisted thoracoscopy is a viable and safe option for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis.

Simpaticotomía bilateral video asistida por hiperhidrosis: análisis de 102 pacientes / Bilateral video-assisted thoracic sympathicotomy for hiperhidrosis: analysis of 102 patients

Resumen La hiperhidrosis es un trastorno caracterizado por la producción excesiva de sudor por las glándulas sudoríparas ecrinas que influye negativamente en las actividades sociales, laborales y fundamentalmente en la calidad de vida. Se divide en primaria o secundaria. La primaria es una enfermedad benigna caracterizada por una excesiva sudoración con mayor frecuencia en palmas, plantas, axilas y cara. Su incidencia es del 1% de la población y su causa es desconocida. La mayoría de los tratamientos médicos no logran un buen control sintomático y frecuentemente son transitorios. La simpaticotomía torácica bilateral videoasistida se ha vuelto el tratamiento de elección en pacientes muy sintomáticos. En el período de 1998 a 2018 se realizaron 174 simpaticotomias bilaterales videoasistidas por hiperhidrosis primaria, de las cuales 102 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Se excluyeron a 72 pacientes. El 20.5% fueron hombres y el 79.5% mujeres con una edad media de 29.22 años. En cuanto a la localización fue palmoplantar axilar en un 50.9%, axilar en un 23.5%, palmoplantar en un 10.7%, palmar en un 7.8%, palmoaxilar 6.8% y facial 5.8%. Los pacientes con sudoración palmar presentaron 94.9% de mejoría, axilar 84.51%, plantar 46.25% y facial 84% respectivamente. El post operatorio arrojó una media de internación de 1.1 días. Como efecto no deseado, se presentó sudoración compensatoria en 53 casos y complicaciones postoperatorias en 18 casos. Concluimos que es una técnica segura, que resuelve de manera significativa la sudoración, mejorando la calidad de vida.

Abstract Hyperhidrosis is a disorder consisting of excessive sweating through the different body sweat glands, which produces a negative impact socially and in work-related activities in those that suffer this condition. There are primary and secondary forms. The primary form is a benign condition with excessive sweating mainly in palms, soles of feet, axillae and face. It affects a 1% of the population, and its cause is unknown. Most medical treatments are unsuccessful, and at best, transitory. In patients who are very troubled by the condition, videoassisted bilateral thoracic sympathicotomy has become the elective treatment. In the period ranging from 1998 to 2018, 174 procedures were undertaken for primary hyperhidrosis, of which 102 satisfied the inclusion criteria. 72 patients were excluded. A 20.5% were males, and 79.5% were females, with an average age of 29.22 years at surgery. As to localization of sweating, a 50.9% was palmar-plantar-axillary, 23.5% axillary, 10.7% palmarplantar, 7.8% palmar, 6.8% palmar-axillary, and a 5.8% facial. Those patients with palmar sweating showed a 94.9% improvement, those with axillary sweating a 88.51%, with plantar a 46.25% and those with facial sweating a 84% improvement. The average admission time was 1.1 days. As an undesired effect, compensatory sweating occurred in 53 cases and postoperative complications in 18 cases. We conclude this is a safe technique, that diminishes sweating significantly, improving patient's quality of life.

[Bilateral video-assisted thoracic sympathicotomy for hiperhidrosis: analysis of 102 patients]. / Simpaticotomía bilateral video asistida por hiperhidrosis: análisis de 102 pacientes.

Hyperhidrosis is a disorder consisting of excessive sweating through the different body sweat glands, which produces a negative impact socially and in work-related activities in those that suffer this condition. There are primary and secondary forms. The primary form is a benign condition with excessive sweating mainly in palms, soles of feet, axillae and face. It affects a 1% of the population, and its cause is unknown. Most medical treatments are unsuccessful, and at best, transitory. In patients who are very troubled by the condition, videoassisted bilateral thoracic sympathicotomy has become the elective treatment. In the period ranging from 1998 to 2018, 174 procedures were undertaken for primary hyperhidrosis, of which 102 satisfied the inclusion criteria. 72 patients were excluded. A 20.5% were males, and 79.5% were females, with an average age of 29.22 years at surgery. As to localization of sweating, a 50.9% was palmar-plantar-axillary, 23.5% axillary, 10.7% palmarplantar, 7.8% palmar, 6.8% palmar-axillary, and a 5.8% facial. Those patients with palmar sweating showed a 94.9% improvement, those with axillary sweating a 88.51%, with plantar a 46.25% and those with facial sweating a 84% improvement. The average admission time was 1.1 days. As an undesired effect, compensatory sweating occurred in 53 cases and postoperative complications in 18 cases. We conclude this is a safe technique, that diminishes sweating significantly, improving patient's quality of life.

La hiperhidrosis es un trastorno caracterizado por la producción excesiva de sudor por las glándulas sudoríparas ecrinas que influye negativamente en las actividades sociales, laborales y fundamentalmente en la calidad de vida. Se divide en primaria o secundaria. La primaria es una enfermedad benigna caracterizada por una excesiva sudoración con mayor frecuencia en palmas, plantas, axilas y cara. Su incidencia es del 1% de la población y su causa es desconocida. La mayoría de los tratamientos médicos no logran un buen control sintomático y frecuentemente son transitorios. La simpaticotomía torácica bilateral videoasistida se ha vuelto el tratamiento de elección en pacientes muy sintomáticos. En el período de 1998 a 2018 se realizaron 174 impaticotomias bilaterales videoasistidas por hiperhidrosis primaria, de las cuales 102 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Se excluyeron a 72 pacientes. El 20.5% fueron hombres y el 79.5% mujeres con una edad media de 29.22 años. En cuanto a la localización fue palmoplantar axilar en un 50.9%, axilar en un 23.5%, palmoplantar en un 10.7%, palmar en un 7.8%, palmoaxilar 6.8% y facial 5.8%. Los pacientes con sudoración palmar presentaron 94.9% de mejoría, axilar 84.51%, plantar 46.25% y facial 84% respectivamente. El post operatorio arrojó una media de internación de 1.1 días. Como efecto no deseado, se presentó sudoración compensatoria en 53 casos y complicaciones postoperatorias en 18 casos. Concluimos que es una técnica segura, que resuelve de manera significativa la sudoración, mejorando la calidad de vida.

Harlequin syndrome: a case report / Síndrome de arlequín: reporte de un caso

El síndrome de Arlequín es una condición neurológica poco común, la mayoría de las veces benigna. Por lo general la mayor parte de los casos son de causa idiopática (aunque existen causas secundarias). Esta afección consiste en la aparición de eritema e hiperhidrosis facial unilateral desencadenado por el ejercicio, calor, emociones o estrés, la que se produce debido a una disfunción contralateral de la vía simpática vasodilatadora y sudomotora. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de sexo masculino de 49 años, que relata presentar un cuadro de 15 años de evolución caracterizado por la aparición de eritema y sudoración excesiva de la hemicara derecha, la cual termina abruptamente en la línea media de la cara, gatillado por el ejercicio y el calor en verano, mientras que la hemicara izquierda presenta anhidrosis sin eritema.

The Harlequin syndrome is a rare neurological condition, most of the time benign. In general, most cases are idiopathic (although there are secondary causes). This condition consists in the appearance of unilateral facial erythema and hyperhidrosis triggered by exercise, heat, emotions or stress, which occurs due to a contralateral dysfunction of the sympathetic vasodilator and sudomotor pathway. We present the case of a 49-year-old male patient, with no relevant morbid history, who reports a medical history of 15 years of evolution, characterized by the appearance of erythema and excessive sweating of the right side of his face, which ends abruptly in the middle line of the face, triggered by exercise and heat during the summer. While the left side presents anhidrosis without erythema.

Symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with primary hyperhidrosis and its association with the result of clinical treatment with oxybutynin

OBJECTIVES: Studies have identified correlations between the psychological characteristics of individuals with primary hyperhidrosis (HH), the degree of sweating, and the quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with HH before and after oxybutynin treatment. METHODS: Data were collected from 81 patients. Palmar or axillary HH was the most frequent complaint (84.0%). All patients were evaluated before the medication was prescribed and after five weeks of treatment. The Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory were used to evaluate depression and anxiety. RESULTS: Improvement in HH occurred in 58 patients (71.6%), but there was no improvement in 23 patients (28.4%). The QoL before treatment in all patients was either "poor" or "very poor." Patients who experienced improvement in sweating rates also experienced a greater improvement in QoL than patients who did not experience improvement in sweating at the main site (87.9% vs. 34.7%) (p<0.001). A total of 19.7% of patients showed an improvement in their level of depression, and a total of 46.9% of patients exhibited improvements in their level of anxiety. A significant correlation was observed between sweating and anxiety (p=0.015). CONCLUSION: Patients with HH who experienced improvements in sweating immediately after treatment with oxybutynin exhibited small improvements in their levels of depression and significant improvements in their levels of anxiety and QoL.

VATS sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis.

Excessive sweating in the hands, feet, and armpits is a difficult problem for people who suffer from it and is an increasingly frequent reason for consulting a thoracic surgeon. The existing medical treatments are only palliative, so primary hyperhidrosis is a definite indication for thoracic sympathectomy. This video tutorial shows in detail the 2-port videothoracoscopic surgical technique performed by our surgical team.

Oxybutynin in primary hyperhidrosis: A long-term real-life study.

Hyperhidrosis is a condition of excessive sweating beyond physiological parameters that can seriously impair quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the oral oxybutynin effectiveness in hyperhidrosis, besides its tolerance and safety. In a real-life long-term study, 30 patients with primary hyperhidrosis and Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) with score of at least two were submitted to a questionnaire to assess demographic data, HDSS and side effects of oxybutynin. Most patients were women (n = 23, 76.7%), median age was 40 years (range 12-70, SD 17.5) and 17(56.7%) had family history of hyperhidrosis. The most common hyperhidrosis form was axillary (n = 15, 50.0%), followed by palmoplantar (n = 8, 26.7%), cranio-facial (n = 11, 36.7%) and trunk (n = 5, 16.7%). Median duration of treatment was 2.4 years (range 1-6 years, SD 1.3). Thus, all patients used oxybutynin for at least 1 year, 30% for 2 years, 20% 3 years, 17% 4 years, and 3% 6 years. There was a significant improvement in HDSS score of patients (P < .001). This real life study suggests that oxybutynin is effective and safe for treatment of hyperhidrosis, both in children and adults, with mild and tolerable side effects, with significant improvement in HDSS.

A prospective controlled randomized multicenter study to evaluate the severity of compensatory sweating after one-stage bilateral thoracic sympathectomy versus unilateral thoracic sympathectomy in the dominant side.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contribution that unilateral thoracic sympathectomy in dominant side or two-stage bilateral thoracic sympathectomy can have as strategies to reduce the incidence of compensatory sweating after sympathectomy for palmar hyperhidrosis. METHODS: This is a prospective, controlled, randomized multicenter trial of 200 participants with palmar hyperhidrosis, which will be randomized into two arms: (a) one-stage bilateral thoracic sympathectomy (control arm); or (b) unilateral thoracic sympathectomy in dominant side (intervention arm). At six months the participants submitted to unilateral procedure can make the contralateral surgery if they wanted it, creating a third group called two-stage bilateral sympathectomy. Participants will be evaluated for the degree of sweating by the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) and of quality of life questionnaires. RESULTS: 96 participants out of the 200 proposed have been included so far, with 48 participants randomized to each arm. From the sample 61 (63.5%) are female, with a mean age of 24 (20-32) years. There were exclusive palmar hiperhydrosis in 14 cases (14.5%), palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis in 36 (37.5%) cases, palmar and axillar hyperhidrosis in 12 (12,5%) cases and palmar-axillary-plantar hyperhidrosis in 34 (35,4%) cases. The age at the beginning of the disease was childhood (78%), with mean of time of disease 15 (11-22) years. CONCLUSIONS: If one or both hypothesis: (a) unilateral sympathectomy in dominant hand is a satisfactory treatment; b) two-stage bilateral sympathectomy causes less compensatory sweating than in one stage are confirmed there is a chance that surgical therapy for palmar hyperhidrosis can be changed for better.

Heart Rate Variability Assessment and Its Application for Autonomic Function Evaluation in Patients with Hyperhidrosis.

BACKGROUND: Pathophysiology mechanism of primary focal hyperhidrosis (PFHH) is controversial. Heart rate variability (HRV) could explain if there is a systemic component present. We aimed to investigate the functions of the autonomic nervous system in patients diagnosed with PFHH compared to controls using the analysis of HRV in the domains of time, frequency, and nonlinearity, as well as analysis of the recurrence plots (RPs). METHODS: We selected 34 patients with PFHH (29.4 ± 10.2 years) and 34 controls (29.2 ± 9.6 years) for HRV analysis. Heart beats were recorded with Polar RS800CX monitor (20 min, at rest, in supine position), and RR intervals were analyzed with Kubios Premium HRV software. RPs were constructed with Visual Recurrence Analysis software. Statistical analysis included unpaired t test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Our results showed that HRV parameters in the 3 domains evaluated did not show any differences between the groups. The same was observed with RPs. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that PFHH, from the pathophysiological point of view, may be caused by peripheral involvement of the sympathetic nervous system (glandular level or nerve terminals), as there was no difference between the groups studied. More specific studies should help elucidate this issue.