Covid-19: a sobrecarga de trabalhona luta pela vida. Representações sociaisde profissionais de enfermagem / Covid-19: work overload in the fight for life. Social representations of nursing professionals

Conhecer as representações sociais de profissionais de enfermagem que atuaram no atendimento aos pacientes acometidos pela COVID-19 diante da sobrecarga de trabalho. Método: Estudo de natureza descritiva com abordagem qualitativa utilizando como referencial a Teoria das Representações Sociais. O cenário foi um hospital que atendeu pacientes acometidos pela COVID-19. Os participantes foram profissionais de enfermagem. Os dados se deram através de entrevistas semiestruturadas. A análise ocorreu conforme a perspectiva de Bardin. Resultados: As representações retrataram condições de trabalho identificando desgaste mental diante em um cenário de inúmeras incertezas, de modo a suprir as necessidades exigida pela crise sanitária, impactando diretamente na sua saúde mental. Conclusão: Possibilidade da construção de um modelo de assistência que reestruture no processo de trabalho da enfermagem, minimizando possíveis sobrecarga de trabalho associados à sua saúde mental, otimizando assim a melhoria das suas condições de trabalho, fortalecendo respostas rápidas e precisas quando necessárias.(AU)

Objective: To learn about the social representations of nursing professionals who worked in the care of patients affected by COVID-19 in the face of work overload. Method: A descriptive study with a qualitative approach, using the Theory of Social Representations as a reference. The setting was a hospital that treated patients affected by COVID-19. The participants were nursing professionals. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The analysis took place according to Bardin's perspective. Results: The representations portrayed working conditions identifying mental exhaustion faced in a scenario of countless uncertainties, in order to meet the needs demanded by the health crisis, directly impacting on their mental health. Conclusion: The possibility of building a care model that restructures the nursing work process, minimizing possible work overload associated with their mental health, thus optimizing the improvement of their working conditions, strengthening quick and precise responses when necessary.(AU)

Objetivo: Conocer las representaciones sociales de los profesionales de enfermería que han trabajado en el cuidado de pacientes afectados por COVID-19 ante la sobrecarga de trabajo. Método: Estudio descriptivo con enfoque cualitativo, tomando como referencia la Teoría de las Representaciones Sociales. El escenario fue un hospital que atendía a pacientes afectados por COVID-19. Los participantes fueron profesionales de enfermería. Los datos se recogieron mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas. El análisis se realizó según la perspectiva de Bardin. Resultados: Las representaciones retrataron condiciones de trabajo que identifican agotamiento mental enfrentado en un escenario de innumerables incertidumbres, para atender a las necesidades demandadas por la crisis de salud, impactando directamente en su salud mental. Conclusión: Es posible construir un modelo de atención que reestructure el proceso de trabajo de enfermería, minimizando la posible sobrecarga de trabajo asociada a su salud mental, optimizando así la mejora de sus condiciones de trabajo, fortaleciendo respuestas rápidas y precisas cuando sea necesario.(AU)

Face mask and protective eyewear-associated headache among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence, clinical features, and factors related to personal protective-associated headaches. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study among healthcare workers using an online questionnaire. RESULTS: We surveyed 305 participants. The N95 face-mask was the most used device by 93%. Of 305 respondents, 206 experienced headaches while wearing protective equipment; 36.06% suffered from a headache disorder before the pandemic. The prevalence of de novo headache was 39.01%. Gender, age, or exposure to coronavirus disease were not determining factors to develop headache. Headache intensity was higher in front-line healthcare workers and was correlated (r = 0.728) with the time wearing protective equipment. The more days per month the participants wore personal protective equipment the shorter the time to headache onset after donning equipment. CONCLUSION: Our study confirms the relationship between frequent and prolonged use of protection devices with headaches and reaffirms the implication of external pressure as a primary mechanism.

OBJETIVO: Investigar la prevalencia, las características clínicas y los factores relacionados con las cefaleas asociadas al equipo de protección personal. MÉTODOS: Realizamos un estudio transversal entre trabajadores de la salud por medio de un cuestionario en línea. RESULTADOS: Encuestamos a 305 participantes. La mascarilla N95 fue el dispositivo más utilizado opor 93%. Del total de encuestados, 206 experimentaron cefalea mientras usaban el equipo de protección; el 36.06% padecía algun trastorno cefalálgico antes del inicio de la pandemia. La prevalencia de cefalea de novo fue del 39.01%. El género, la edad o la exposición a la enfermedad por coronavirus no fueron factores determinantes para desarrollar cefalea. La cefalea fue de mayor intensidad en los trabajadores de primera línea y se correlacionó (r = 0.728) con el tiempo que se uso el equipo de protección personal. Mientras más días por mes los participantes usaron el equipo de protección personal menor fue el tiempo de inicio de la cefalea tras la colocación del equipo cada vez. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestro estudio confirma la asociación del uso frecuente y prolongado de dispositivos de protección con el desarrollo de cefalea y reafirma la implicación de la compresión externa como mecanismo primario.

Effectiveness of corticosteroids to treat coronavirus disease 2019 symptoms: A meta-analysis

Objective: Currently, corticosteroids are widely used to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms. However, the therapeutic role of corticosteroids remains highly controversial. To that end, we aimed to assess the efficacy of corticosteroids in treating COVID-19 patients.MethodWe searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to select suitable studies. Our primary study endpoint was all-cause mortality. The secondary study endpoint was the length of hospital stay.ResultsA total of 9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 7907 patients were assessed. The pooled result indicated that corticosteroids treatment could significantly reduce all-cause mortality in patients with COVID-19 (RR=0.88, 95% CI [0.82, 0.95], P=0.002). When subgroup analyses were performed, we found that corticosteroids were associated with decreased all-cause mortality in severe COVID-19 patients (RR=0.77, 95% CI [0.68, 0.88], P<0.0001), however no obvious difference was observed in all-cause mortality of non-severe COVID-19 patients between the corticosteroid and control group (RR=0.96, 95% CI [0.86, 1.06], P=0.41), meanwhile, a low dose (RR=0.89, 95% CI [0.82, 0.97], P=0.007) of dexamethasone (RR=0.9, 95% CI [0.83, 0.98], P=0.01) with a long treatment course (RR=0.89, 95% CI [0.82, 0.98], P=0.02) was beneficial for all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients. Additionally, we found that corticosteroids might be associated with a longer length of hospital stay in non-severe COVID-19 patients (MD=3.83, 95% CI [1.11, 6.56], P=0.006).ConclusionOur results showed that corticosteroid therapy was related to a reduction in all-cause mortality in severe COVID-19 patients. However, in patients with non-severe COVID-19, the use of corticosteroids did not decrease all-cause mortality and may prolong the duration of hospital stay. In addition, we revealed that a low dose of dexamethasone with a long treatment course could reduce all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients. (AU)

Objetivo: Actualmente, los glucocorticoides se utilizan ampliamente para tratar los síntomas de la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Sin embargo, el papel terapéutico de los glucocorticoides sigue siendo muy controvertido, por ello, nos propusimos evaluar su eficacia en el tratamiento de los pacientes con COVID-19.MétodoSe realizaron búsquedas en PubMed, Embase y Cochrane Library para seleccionar los estudios adecuados. El criterio de valoración principal del estudio fue la mortalidad por todas las causas. El criterio de valoración secundario del estudio fue la duración de la estancia en el hospital.ResultadosSe evaluó un total de 9 ensayos controlados aleatorizados con 7.907 pacientes. En general, el tratamiento con glucocorticoides redujo la mortalidad por todas las causas en los pacientes con COVID-19 (RR=0,88, IC 95% [0,82; 0,95], p=0,002). Al realizar análisis de subgrupos, se observó que los glucocorticoides se asociaban a una disminución de la mortalidad por todas las causas en los pacientes con COVID-19 grave (RR=0,77, IC 95% [0,68; 0,88], p<0,0001), sin embargo no se observaron diferencias evidentes en la mortalidad por todas las causas de los pacientes con COVID-19 no grave entre el grupo de glucocorticoides y el de control (RR=0,96, IC 95% [0,86; 1,06], p=0,41), mientras que una dosis baja (RR=0,89, IC 95% [0,82; 0,97], p=0,007) de dexametasona (RR=0,9, IC 95% [0,83; 0,98], p=0,01) con un curso de tratamiento largo (RR=0,89, IC 95% [0,82; 0,98], p=0,02) fue beneficiosa para la mortalidad por todas las causas en los pacientes con COVID-19. Además, encontramos que los glucocorticoides podrían estar asociados con una mayor duración de la estancia hospitalaria en los pacientes con COVID-19 no grave (DM=3,83, IC 95% [1,11; 6,56], p=0,006).ConclusiónNuestros resultados mostraron que el tratamiento con glucocorticoides estaba relacionado con una reducción de la mortalidad por todas las causas en los pacientes con COVID-19 grave. (AU)

Cáncer y COVID-19, un vínculo peligroso / Cancer and COVID-19, a dangerous association

Fundamento: La COVID-19 es una pandemia causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2 cuya asociación con el cáncer puede tener efectos adversos. Objetivo: Describir los principales vínculos entre el cáncer y la COVID-19. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en Google Académico, SciELO y PubMed Central con los descriptores SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 y cáncer, consultados en el DeCS. Se seleccionaron artículos a texto completo en español e inglés, principalmente de revistas arbitradas por pares. Resultados: La COVID-19 produce resultados más desfavorables en los pacientes con cáncer. Estos resultados se relacionan con altas tasas de hospitalización, complicaciones y mortalidad. La frecuente asociación de comorbilidades en pacientes con cáncer parece contribuir a este vínculo peligroso. Las vías de señalización comunes al cáncer y a la infección por el SARS-CoV-2 son citocinas proinflamatorias, interferón tipo I, receptor de andrógenos y puntos de control inmune. Este conocimiento tiene aplicación práctica en el empleo de medicamentos para combatir la COVID-19 en pacientes con cáncer. Conclusiones: El cáncer se relaciona con la COVID-19 grave, por lo que esos pacientes son más vulnerables a la infección viral.

Background: COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which relation with cancer may have adverse effects. Objective: To describe the main associations between cancer and COVID-19. Methodology: A literature review was conducted in Google Scholar, SciELO and PubMed Central with the descriptors SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 and cancer, consulted in DeCS. Full-text articles in Spanish and English were selected, mainly from peer-reviewed journals. Results: COVID-19 produces more non-favorable outcomes in patients with cancer. These outcomes are related to high hospitalization rates, complications and mortality. Frequent comorbidity relations in patients with cancer seem to contribute to this dangerous association. Signaling pathways common to cancer and SARS-CoV-2 infection are proinflammatory cytokines, type I interferon, androgen receptor, and immune checkpoints. This knowledge has a practical use with drugs against COVID-19 in patients with cancer. Conclusions: Cancer is associated with severe COVID-19, making such patients more vulnerable to viral infection.

Impacto de la ecografía pulmonar Durante la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2: distinción entre la neumonía viral y la bacteriana / Impact of Lung Ultrasound dUring the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Distinction Between Viral and Bacterial Pneumonia

Introducción: La ecografía pulmonar es una técnica accesible, de bajo costo y que ha demostrado su utilidad en la estratificación pronóstica en pacientes con COVID-19. Además, según estudios previos, nos puede orientar hacia la potencial etiología, especialmente en situaciones epidémicas como la actual. Pacientes y métodos: Se reclutaron prospectivamente 40 pacientes, 30 con neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 y 10 por neumonía adquirida en la comunidad. A los pacientes incluidos, se les realizó tanto una radiografía como ecografía de tórax. Resultados: No hubo diferencias en los 2 grupos en cuanto a las características clínicas y analíticas. Los principales hallazgos ecográficos fueron en el grupo de SARS-CoV-2 la presencia de líneas B confluyentes y consolidaciones subpleurales y la hepatinización en el grupo de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad. El derrame pleural fue más frecuente en el grupo de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad. En ningún caso la ecografía pulmonar fue normal. El análisis de las curvas ROC mostró un área bajo la curva para la ecografía pulmonar del 89,2% (IC 95%: 75,0- 100%, p <0,001) en la identificación de la neumonía por SARS-CoV-2. El valor de corte para la puntuación del puntaje pulmonar de 10 tuvo una sensibilidad del 93,3% y especificidad del 80,0% (p <0,001). Discusión: La combinación de los hallazgos de la ecografía pulmonar, con un puntaje pulmonar mayor de 10, complementando el resto de las pruebas complementarias, puede ser una excelente herramienta para predecir la etiología de la neumonía.(AU)

Introduction: Lung ultrasound is an accessible, low-cost technique that has demonstrated its usefulness in the prognostic stratification of COVID-19 patients. In addition, according to previous studies, it can guide us towards the potential aetiology, especially in epidemic situations such as the current one. Patients and methods: 40 patients were prospectively recruited, 30 with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and 10 with community-acquired pneumonia. The patients included underwent both a chest X-ray and ultrasound. Results: There were no differences in the 2 groups in terms of clinical and laboratory characteristics. The main ultrasound findings in the SARS-CoV-2 group were the presence of confluent B lines and subpleural consolidations and hepatinization in the community-acquired pneumonia group. Pleural effusion was more frequent in the community-acquired pneumonia group. There were no normal lung ultrasound exams. Analysis of the area under the curve curves showed an area under the curve for lung ultrasound of 89.2% (95% CI: 75.0-100%, p <.001) in the identification of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The cut-off value for the lung score of 10 had a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 80.0% (p <.001). Discussion: The combination of the findings of the lung ultrasound, with a lung score greater than 10, added to the rest of the additional tests, can be an excellent tool to predict the aetiology of the pneumonia.(AU)

Ecografía multiórgano en infección por SARS-COV-2 / Multi-organ ultrasound for SARS-COV-2 disease

Aim: There is growing evidence regarding the imaging ultrasound findings of coronavirus disease 2019 COVID-19. Multi-organ ultrasoundhas played a significant role in the diagnosis and follow-up of thesepatients. The aim of this study was to describe the ultrasound findingsat pulmonary, cardiac and deep venous system of the lower extremities in patients with SARS-COV-2 infection.Material and method: Prospective, cross-sectional, observationalstudy was conducted in patients with confirmed COVID-19 who underwent a multi-organ point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) examinationduring hospitalization.Results: A total of 107 patients were enrolled. Lung involvement waspresent in 100% of the patients, 93.4% bilaterally involvement. Themost affected lung area was the posteroinferior (94.39%) followed bythe lateral (89.72%). Subpleural consolidations were present in 71%of patients and consolidations larger than 1 cm in 25%. More echographic lung involvement is relational with the degree of respiratoryinsufficiency. Only two patients had proximal deep vein thrombosisin the lower extremities, 27 angiography tomography scan were performed and pulmonary thromboembolism was confirmed in 14 patients. The most frequent echocardiographic findings were impairedleft ventricular relaxation and left ventricular hypertrophy. All patientswith thromboembolic disease had severe or critical echocardiographicpulmonary involvement.Conclusions: Multi-organ POCUS ultrasound may be useful for themanifestations of COVID-19. The degree of lung ultrasound involvement was related to the degree of respiratory failure and to the presence of VTED. The relationship between DVT and PTE was lower thanexpected. Cardiac involvement has little relevance in our series. (AU)

Objetivo: Existe una creciente evidencia con respecto a los hallazgosecográficos y la COVID-19, destacando la ecografía multiórgano parael diagnóstico y el seguimiento de estos pacientes. El objetivo fuedescribir los hallazgos ecográficos a nivel pulmonar, cardiaco y delsistema venoso profundo de extremidades inferiores en pacientes coninfección por SARS-COV-2.Material y Métodos: Estudio prospectivo, transversal y observacionalrealizado en pacientes con COVID-19 confirmado a los que se lesrealizó una ecografía multiórgano en el punto de atención durante lahospitalización.Resultados: Un total de 107 pacientes se inscribieron. El 100% delos pacientes tenían afectación pulmonar (93,4% bilateral). Las zonaspulmonares más afectadas fueron la posteroinferior (94,39%) y la lateral (89,72%). Se observó consolidaciones subpleurales en el 71%de los pacientes y consolidaciones mayores de 1 cm en el 25%. Amayor afectación pulmonar ecográfica, mayor grado de insuficienciarespiratoria. 2 pacientes presentaron TVP proximal en extremidadesinferiores. Se realizaron 27 Angiotomografía computarizada confirmándose tromboembolismo pulmonar en 14 pacientes. Los hallazgosecocardiográficos más frecuentes fueron: alteración de la relajacióndel ventrículo izquierdo e hipertrofia ventricular izquierda. Todos lospacientes con enfermedad tromboembólica tenían una afectación pulmonar ecográfica grave o crítica.Conclusión: la ecografia multiórgano puede ser útil para lasmanifestaciones de la COVID-19. El grado de afectación ecográficapulmonar se relacionó con el grado de insuficiencia respiratoria y conla presencia de ETEV. La relación entre TVP y TEP fue más baja de loesperado. La afectación cardiaca fue poco relevante en nuestra serie. (AU)

Seroincidencia de anticuerpos IgG del SARS-CoV-2 y factores de riesgo en trabajadores sanitarios asintomáticos del hospital Departamental de Villavicencio

Objetivo: Estimar la seroincidencia acumulada de inmunoglobulinas (Ig) clase G (IgG) anti-SARS-CoV-2 en trabajadores de la salud asintomáticos y su asociación epidemiológica dentro de las áreas funcionales del Hospital Departamental de Villavicencio (HDV). Metodología: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional analítico longitudinal de una cohorte de trabajadores, donde cada 21 días, en tres oportunidades, se midieron IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 en suero sanguíneo, a través de ELISA indirecto, en una muestra representativa aleatoria (n= 105) de trabajadores sanitarios del hospital (N= 756). Como instrumento de recolección de datos se utilizó una encuesta, donde cada trabajador sanitario declaró no haber sido diagnosticado con COVID-19, e igualmente registró la información sobre las variables independientes: sexo, edad, condición laboral, área funcional y comorbilidades. Resultados: La prevalencia inicial para SARS-CoV-2 entre los trabajadores sanitarios asintomáticos del HDV fue de 9,52 % (IC 95 % 5,25-16,65). La seroincidencia acumulada durante 42 días fue de 12,38 % (IC 95 % 7,38-20,04). El riesgo relativo (RR) se utilizó para establecer los factores de riesgo asociados a las variables independientes. El sexo masculino (RR ajustado = 3,34, IC 95 % 1,98-5,86), obesidad (RR ajustado = 10,98, IC 95 % 1,41-85,98) y sexo femenino (RR ajustado = 2,15, IC 95 % 1,12-4,31) en las áreas funcionales de Hospitalización, Medicina Crítica y Urgencias, respectivamente, son factores de riesgo en el HDV. Conclusión: Un total de 13 de 105 trabajadores sanitarios del hospital seroconvirtieron positivamente para SARS-CoV-2 y fueron asintomáticos durante 42 días de seguimiento epidemiológico. Además, existen factores de riesgo importantes en su exposición a este virus en el HDV.

Objective: To estimate the cumulative seroincidence of antisars-CoV-2 immunoglobulin (Ig) class G (IgG) in asymptomatic health care workers and its epidemiological association within the functional areas of the Villavicencio Departmental Hospital (HDV). Methodology: A longitudinal analytical observational study of a cohort of workers was conducted in which anti- SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels in blood serum were measured every 21 days on three occasions using an indirect ELISA in a random representative sample (n = 105) of hospital health workers (N = 756). The data collection tool was a survey in which each healthcare worker indicated that they had not been diagnosed with COVID-19 and provided information on the independent variables: sex, age, job status, functional area, and comorbidities. Results: The baseline prevalence for SARS-CoV-2 among asymptomatic HDV healthcare workers was 9.52% (CI 95% 5.25-16.65). Cumulative seroincidence over 42 days was 12.38% (CI 95% 7.38-20.04). Relative risk (RR) was used to establish the risk factors associated with the independent variables. Male sex (adjusted RR 3.34, CI 95% 1.98-5.86), obesity (adjusted RR 10.98, CI 95% 1.41- 85.98) and female sex (adjusted RR 2.15, CI 95% 1.12-4.31) in the functional areas of Hospitalization, Critical Medicine and Emergency, respectively, are risk factors in the HDV. Conclusion: During 42 days of epidemiological follow-up, 13 out of 105 hospital healthcare workers seroconverted positively for SARS-CoV-2 and remained asymptomatic. Additionally, significant risk factors are associated with their exposure to this virus in the HDV.

Objetivo: Estimar a incidência zero acumulada de imunoglobulinas (Ig) classe G (IgG) anti-SARS-CoV-2 em profissionais de saúde assintomáticos e sua associação epidemiológica dentro das áreas funcionais do Hospital Estadual de Villavicencio (HDV). Metodologia: Foi realizado um estudo observacional analítico longitudinal de uma coorte de profissionais, no qual a cada 21 dias, em três ocasiões mediram-se IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 em soro sanguíneo, através de ELISA indireto, em uma amostra representativa aleatória (n = 105) de profissionais de saúde do hospital (N =756). Como instrumento de recolecção de dados foi usada uma pesquisa, onde cada profissional de saúde declarou não ter sido diagnosticado com COVID-19, e igualmente registrou a informação sobre as variáveis independentes: sexo, idade, condições de trabalho, área de atuação e comorbidades. Resultados: A prevalência inicial para SARS-CoV-2 entre os profissionais de saúde assintomáticos do HDV foi de 9,52% (IC 95% 5,25-16,65). A incidência zero acumulada durante 42 dias foi de 12,38% (IC 95% 7,38-20,04). O risco relativo (RR) foi utilizado para estabelecer os fatores de risco associados às variáveis independentes. O sexo masculino (RR ajustado 3,34, IC 95% 1,98-5,86), obesidade (RR ajustado 10,98, IC 95% 1,41-85,98) e sexo feminino (RR ajustado 2,15, IC 95% 1,12-4,31) nas áreas funcionais de Internação, Unidade de Terapia Intensiva e Urgências, respectivamente, são fatores de risco no HDV. Conclusão: Um total de 13 de 105 profissionais de saúde do hospital foram detectados positivamente para SARS-CoV-2 e foram assintomáticos durante 42 dias de seguimento epidemiológico. Além disso, existem importantes fatores de risco na sua exposição a este vírus no HDV.

Effectiveness of corticosteroids to treat coronavirus disease 2019 symptoms: A meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Currently, corticosteroids are widely used to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms. However, the therapeutic role of corticosteroids remains highly controversial. To that end, we aimed to assess the efficacy of corticosteroids in treating COVID-19 patients. METHOD: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to select suitable studies. Our primary study endpoint was all-cause mortality. The secondary study endpoint was the length of hospital stay. RESULTS: A total of 9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 7907 patients were assessed. The pooled result indicated that corticosteroids treatment could significantly reduce all-cause mortality in patients with COVID-19 (RR=0.88, 95% CI [0.82, 0.95], P=0.002). When subgroup analyses were performed, we found that corticosteroids were associated with decreased all-cause mortality in severe COVID-19 patients (RR=0.77, 95% CI [0.68, 0.88], P<0.0001), however no obvious difference was observed in all-cause mortality of non-severe COVID-19 patients between the corticosteroid and control group (RR=0.96, 95% CI [0.86, 1.06], P=0.41), meanwhile, a low dose (RR=0.89, 95% CI [0.82, 0.97], P=0.007) of dexamethasone (RR=0.9, 95% CI [0.83, 0.98], P=0.01) with a long treatment course (RR=0.89, 95% CI [0.82, 0.98], P=0.02) was beneficial for all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients. Additionally, we found that corticosteroids might be associated with a longer length of hospital stay in non-severe COVID-19 patients (MD=3.83, 95% CI [1.11, 6.56], P=0.006). CONCLUSION: Our results showed that corticosteroid therapy was related to a reduction in all-cause mortality in severe COVID-19 patients. However, in patients with non-severe COVID-19, the use of corticosteroids did not decrease all-cause mortality and may prolong the duration of hospital stay. In addition, we revealed that a low dose of dexamethasone with a long treatment course could reduce all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients.

Impact of lung ultrasound during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: Distinction between viral and bacterial pneumonia.

INTRODUCTION: Lung Ultrasound is an accessible, low-cost technique that has demonstrated its usefulness in the prognostic stratification of COVID-19 patients. In addition, according to previous studies, it can guide us towards the potential aetiology, especially in epidemic situations such as the current one. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 40 patients were prospectively recruited, 30 with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and 10 with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The patients included underwent both a chest X-ray and ultrasound. RESULTS: There were no differences in the 2 groups in terms of clinical and laboratory characteristics. The main ultrasound findings in the SARS-CoV-2 group were the presence of confluent B lines and subpleural consolidations and hepatinization in the CAP group. Pleural effusion was more frequent in the CAP group. There were no normal lung ultrasound exams. Analysis of the area under the curve (AUC) curves showed an area under the curve for Lung Ultrasound of 89.2% (95% CI: 75%.0-100%, p < .001) in the identification of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The cut-off value for the lung score of 10 had a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 80.0% (p < .001). DISCUSSION: The combination of the findings of the Lung Ultrasound, with a Lung Score greater than 10, added to the rest of the additional tests, can be an excellent tool to predict the aetiology of the pneumonia.

Clinical features and prognosis of COVID-19 patients with metabolic syndrome: A multicenter, retrospective study / Características clínicas y pronóstico de los pacientes con COVID-19 y síndrome metabólico: un estudio multicéntrico y retrospectivo

Background:Few studies have investigated the impacts of metabolic syndrome (MS) on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We described the clinical features and prognosis of confirmed COVID-19 patients with MS during hospitalization and after discharge.Methods:Two hundred and thirty-three COVID-19 patients from the hospitals in 8 cities of Jiangsu, China were retrospectively included. Clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients were described and risk factors of severe illness were analyzed by logistic regression analysis.Results:Forty-five (19.3%) of 233 COVID-19 patients had MS. The median age of COVID-19 patients with MS was significantly higher than non-MS patients (53.0 years vs. 46.0 years, P=0.004). There were no significant differences of clinical symptoms, abnormal chest CT images, and treatment drugs between two groups. More patients with MS had severe illness (33.3% vs. 6.4%, P<0.001) and critical illness (4.4% vs. 0.5%, P=0.037) than non-MS patients. The proportions of respiratory failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome in MS patients were also higher than non-MS patients during hospitalization. Multivariate analysis showed that concurrent MS (odds ratio [OR] 7.668, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.062–19.201, P<0.001) and lymphopenia (OR 3.315, 95% CI 1.306–8.411, P=0.012) were independent risk factors of severe illness of COVID-19. At a median follow-up of 28 days after discharge, bilateral pneumonia was found in 95.2% of MS patients, while only 54.7% of non-MS patients presented bilateral pneumonia.Conclusions:19.3% of COVID-19 patients had MS in our study. COVID-19 patients with MS are more likely to develop severe complications and have worse prognosis. More attention should be paid to COVID-19 patients with MS. (AU)

Antecedentes:Pocos estudios han investigado el impacto del síndrome metabólico (SM) en la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Describimos las características clínicas y el pronóstico de los pacientes con COVID-19 confirmados con SM durante la hospitalización y después del alta.Métodos:Se incluyó de forma retrospectiva a 233 pacientes con COVID-19 de los hospitales de 8 ciudades de Jiangsu (China). Se describieron sus características clínicas y se analizaron los factores de riesgo de enfermedad grave mediante un análisis de regresión logística.Resultados:De los 233 pacientes, 45 (19,3%) tenían EM. La mediana de edad de estos pacientes con EM fue significativamente mayor que la de los pacientes sin él (53,0 años frente a 46,0 años; p = 0,004). No hubo diferencias significativas en cuanto a los síntomas clínicos, las imágenes de TC torácica anormales y los fármacos de tratamiento entre los 2 grupos. Hubo más pacientes con EM que tuvieron enfermedades graves (33,3% frente a 6,4%; p < 0,001) y críticas (4,4% frente a 0,5%; p = 0,037) que los pacientes sin EM. Las proporciones de insuficiencia respiratoria y síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda en los pacientes con EM también fueron mayores que en los pacientes sin EM durante la hospitalización. El análisis multivariante mostró que la EM concurrente (odds ratio [OR] 7,668; intervalo de confianza [IC] del 95%: 3,062-19,201; p < 0,001) y la linfopenia (OR 3,315; IC del 95%: 1,306-8,411; p = 0,012) eran factores de riesgo independientes de COVID-19 grave. En una mediana de seguimiento de 28 días tras el alta, se encontró neumonía bilateral en el 95,2% de los pacientes con EM, mientras que solo la presentaron el 54,7% de los pacientes sin EM.Conclusiones:El 19,3% de los pacientes con COVID-19 tenían EM en nuestro estudio. Los pacientes con COVID-19 y EM son más propensos a desarrollar complicaciones graves y tienen peor pronóstico. Se debe prestar más atención a los pacientes con COVID-19 y EM. (AU)

Características clínicas y factores de riesgo de mortalidad al ingreso en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca hospitalizados por COVID-19 en España / Clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality upon admission in patients with heart failure hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Spain

Introducción: Existen pocos estudios sobre pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) ingresados por COVID-19. Nuestro objetivo fue describir las características clínicas de los pacientes con IC ingresados por COVID-19 e identificar los factores de riesgo al ingreso de mortalidad intrahospitalaria. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo y multicéntrico de pacientes con IC ingresados por COVID-19 en 150 hospitales españoles (Registro SEMI-COVID-19). Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística para identificar los factores de riesgo al ingreso asociados a la mortalidad. Resultados: Se analizaron 1.718 pacientes (56,5% varones; edad mediana 81,4 años). La tasa de mortalidad global fue del 47,6% (n=819). Los factores de riesgo independientes al ingreso para mortalidad fueron: la edad (odds ratio ajustado [ORA]: 1,03; intervalo de confianza 95% [IC 95%]: 1,02-1,05; p<0,001), la dependencia severa (ORA: 1,62; IC 95%: 1,19-2,20; p=0,002), la taquicardia (ORA: 1,01; IC 95%: 1,00-1,01; p=0,004), la proteína C reactiva (ORA: 1,004; IC 95%:1,002-1,004; p<0,001), la LDH (ORA: 1,001; IC 95%: 1,001-1,002; p<0,001) y la creatinina sérica (ORA: 1,35; IC 95%: 1,18-1,54; p<0,001). Conclusiones: Los pacientes con IC hospitalizados por COVID-19 tienen una alta mortalidad intrahospitalaria. Existen factores clínico-analíticos simples que pueden ayudar a identificar a los pacientes con peor pronóstico (AU)

Background: There are few studies on patients with heart failure (HF) hospitalized for COVID-19. Our aim is to describe the clinical characteristics of patients with HF hospitalized for COVID-19 and identify risk factors for in-hospital mortality upon admission. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study in patients with HF hospitalized for COVID-19 in 150 Spanish hospitals (SEMI-COVID-19 Registry). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify admission risk factors associated with in-hospital mortality. Results: A total of 1,718 patients were analyzed (56.5% men; median age 81.4 years). The overall case fatality rate was 47.6% (n=819). The independent risk factors at admission for in-hospital mortality were: age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.03; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.02-1.05; p<.001); severe dependence (AOR: 1.62; 95%CI: 1.19-2.20; p=.002); tachycardia (AOR: 1.01; 95%CI: 1.00-1.01; p=.004); and high C-reactive protein (AOR: 1.004; 95%CI:1.002-1.004; p<.001), LDH (AOR: 1.001; 95%CI: 1.001-1.002; p<.001), and serum creatinine levels (AOR: 1.35; 95%CI: 1.18-1.54; p<.001). Conclusions: Patients with HF hospitalized for COVID-19 have a high in-hospital mortality rate. Some simple clinical and laboratory tests can help to identify patients with a worse prognosis (AU)

Relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas como predictor de lesión renal aguda en sepsis por COVID-19 en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos / Neutrophiles, lymphocytes and platelets ratio as a predictor of acute kidney injury in sepsis by COVID-19 in the Intensive Care Unit / Relação de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas como preditor de lesão renal aguda na sepse por COVID-19 na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva

Resumen: Introducción: La lesión renal aguda se encuentra en 40% de los pacientes que presentan sepsis (S-LRA), ya que la inflamación es una de las causas fisiopatológicas de la lesión renal aguda. Durante la pandemia, la principal causa de sepsis en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) fue secundaria a enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), en ésta se ha reportado incidencia de lesión renal de 36 a 75%. La fisiopatología de esta complicación aún no se conoce, pero se han demostrado mecanismos similares a la lesión renal séptica típica. La relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas (RNLP) previamente se ha asociado con la presencia de lesión renal aguda en otros ámbitos (cirugía cardiaca y cirugía abdominal mayor), y en pacientes con sepsis secundaria a COVID-19 puede ser un marcador que identifique a los pacientes con riesgo de presentar esta complicación. Objetivo: Determinar si la relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas es un predictor de lesión renal aguda en sepsis secundaria a COVID-19 en la UCI adultos. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte prospectiva, unicéntrico. En pacientes mayores de 18 años que ingresen a la UCI con diagnóstico de sepsis por COVID-19 se realizará el cálculo de la RNLP desde el día uno hasta el día siete. Se dividen en dos grupos: RNLP mayor de tres puntos y RNLP igual o menor de tres puntos, observando presencia o no de lesión renal aguda durante su estancia, y posterior al desenlace. Para el objetivo principal se hace prueba χ2, y se realiza prueba de regresión logística multivariable para valorar la asociación de las diferentes variables con el desenlace (OR IC95%). Resultados: Se estudió una población de 119 pacientes, se obtuvo una incidencia de lesión renal aguda inducida por sepsis (S-LRA) de 53.8% (IC95% 44-62%) en pacientes con sepsis secundaria a COVID-19, siendo la mayoría KDIGO I (53.2%). El grupo de RNLP mayor de tres tuvo una incidencia de 68.4% de S-LRA en comparación con el grupo de RNLP igual o menor de tres con 28% (p = 0.001, OR 4.255 IC95% 1.782-10.16), los pacientes con RNLP mayor de tres tuvieron estancia más prolongada en la UCI (12 versus 10 días, p = 0.018), y más tiempo de ventilación mecánica (11 versus ocho días, p = 0.003). Conclusión: El incremento de la relación neutrófilos, linfocitos y plaquetas es un factor de riesgo y puede ser pronóstico para la presencia de lesión renal aguda en sepsis por COVID-19 en la UCI.

Abstract: Introduction: Acute kidney injury is found in 40% of patients with sepsis (S-AKI), since inflammation is one of the pathophysiological causes of acute kidney injury. During the pandemic, the main cause of sepsis in the ICU was secondary to COVID-19, in which an incidence of kidney injury of 36 to 75% has been reported. The pathophysiology of this complication is not yet known, but mechanisms similar to typical septic kidney injury have been demonstrated. The neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet ratio (RNLP) has previously been associated with the presence of acute kidney injury in other settings (cardiac surgery and major abdominal surgery) and in patients with sepsis secondary to COVID-19 it may be a marker that identifies the patients at risk of presenting this complication. Objective: To determine if the ratio of neutrophils, lymphocytes and platelets is a predictor of acute kidney injury in sepsis secondary to COVID-19 in the adult ICU. Material and methods: Prospective, single-center cohort study. In patients over 18 years of age who are admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of sepsis due to COVID-19, the RNLP will be calculated from day 1 to day 7, it is divided into 2 groups: RNLP greater than 3 and RNLP equal or less than 3, observing the presence or not of acute kidney injury during their stay, and after the outcome, for the main objective a χ2 test is performed, and a multivariate logistic regression test is performed to assess the Association of the different variables with the outcome (OR with 95% CI). Results: A population of 119 patients was studied, there was an incidence of S-AKI of 53.8% (95% CI 44-62%) in patients with sepsis secondary to COIVD-19, the majority being KDIGO I (53.2%). In the RNLP group greater than 3 I had a 68.4% incidence of S-AKI compared to the RNLP group less than or equal to 3 with 28% (p = 0.001, OR 4.255 95% CI 1.72-10.16), the patients with RNLP greater than 3 had a longer stay in the ICU (12 vs 10 days, p = 0.018), and a longer time of mechanical ventilation (11 vs 8 days, p = 0.003). Conclusion: The increase in the neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet ratio is a risk factor and can be a prognostic for the presence of acute kidney injury in sepsis due to COVID-19 in the ICU.

Resumo: Introdução: A lesão renal aguda é encontrada em 40% dos pacientes com sepse (S-LRA), uma vez que a inflamação é uma das causas fisiopatológicas da lesão renal aguda. Durante a pandemia, a principal causa de sepse na UTI foi secundária à COVID-19, na qual a incidência de lesão renal foi relatada de 36 a 75%. A fisiopatologia dessa complicação ainda não é conhecida, mas mecanismos semelhantes à lesão renal séptica típica foram demonstrados. A proporção de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas (RNLP) já foi associada à presença de lesão renal aguda em outros âmbitos (cirurgia cardíaca e cirurgia abdominal de grande porte) e em pacientes com sepse secundária à COVID-19 pode ser um marcador que identifica os pacientes em risco de apresentar esta complicação. Objetivo: Determinar se a proporção de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas é um preditor de lesão renal aguda na sepse secundária à COVID-19 na UTI adulto. Material e métodos: Estudo de coorte prospectivo, unicêntrico. Pacientes maiores de 18 anos admitidos na UTI com diagnóstico de sepse por COVID-19, o RNLP será calculado do dia 1 ao dia 7, dividido em 2 grupos: RNLP maior que 3 e RNLP igual ou inferior a 3, observando a presença ou não de lesão renal aguda durante sua internação, e posteriormente o desfecho, para o objetivo principal, é realizado um teste de χ2, e se realiza um teste de regressão logística multivariável para avaliar a associação das diferentes variáveis com o resultado (OR com 95% IC). Resultados: Estudou-se uma população de 119 pacientes, com incidência de S-LRA de 53.8% (IC 95% 44-62%) em pacientes com sepse secundária a COVID-19, sendo a maioria KDIGO I (53.2%). No grupo RNLP maior que 3, houve uma incidência de 68.4% de S-LRA comparado ao grupo RNLP menor ou igual a 3 com 28% (p = 0.001, OR 4.255, IC 95% 1.782-10.16), os pacientes com RNLP maior que 3 tiveram maior tempo de permanência na UTI (12 vs 10 dias, p = 0.018) e maior tempo em ventilação mecânica (11 vs 8 dias, p = 0.003). Conclusão: O aumento da proporção de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas é um fator de risco e pode ser prognóstico para a presença de lesão renal aguda na sepse por COVID-19 na UTI.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality upon admission in patients with heart failure hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Spain.

BACKGROUND: There are few studies on patients with heart failure (HF) hospitalized for COVID-19. Our aim is to describe the clinical characteristics of patients with HF hospitalized for COVID-19 and identify risk factors for in-hospital mortality upon admission. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study in patients with HF hospitalized for COVID-19 in 150 Spanish hospitals (SEMI-COVID-19 Registry). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify admission factors associated with in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: A total of 1718 patients were analyzed (56.5% men; median age 81.4 years). The overall case fatality rate was 47.6% (n = 819). The independent risk factors at admission for in-hospital mortality were: age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.03; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.02-1.05; p < 0.001); severe dependence (AOR: 1.62; 95%CI: 1.19-2.20; p = 0.002); tachycardia (AOR: 1.01; 95%CI: 1.00-1.01; p = 0.004); and high C-reactive protein (AOR: 1.004; 95%CI:1.002-1.004; p < 0.001), LDH (AOR: 1.001; 95%CI: 1.001-1.002; p < 0.001), and serum creatinine levels (AOR: 1.35; 95%CI: 1.18-1.54; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with HF hospitalized for COVID-19 have a high in-hospital mortality rate. Some simple clinical and laboratory tests can help to identify patients with a worse prognosis.

Clinical features and prognosis of COVID-19 patients with metabolic syndrome: A multicenter, retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Few studies have investigated the impacts of metabolic syndrome (MS) on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We described the clinical features and prognosis of confirmed COVID-19 patients with MS during hospitalization and after discharge. METHODS: Two hundred and thirty-three COVID-19 patients from the hospitals in 8 cities of Jiangsu, China were retrospectively included. Clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients were described and risk factors of severe illness were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Forty-five (19.3%) of 233 COVID-19 patients had MS. The median age of COVID-19 patients with MS was significantly higher than non-MS patients (53.0 years vs. 46.0 years, P=0.004). There were no significant differences of clinical symptoms, abnormal chest CT images, and treatment drugs between two groups. More patients with MS had severe illness (33.3% vs. 6.4%, P<0.001) and critical illness (4.4% vs. 0.5%, P=0.037) than non-MS patients. The proportions of respiratory failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome in MS patients were also higher than non-MS patients during hospitalization. Multivariate analysis showed that concurrent MS (odds ratio [OR] 7.668, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.062-19.201, P<0.001) and lymphopenia (OR 3.315, 95% CI 1.306-8.411, P=0.012) were independent risk factors of severe illness of COVID-19. At a median follow-up of 28 days after discharge, bilateral pneumonia was found in 95.2% of MS patients, while only 54.7% of non-MS patients presented bilateral pneumonia. CONCLUSIONS: 19.3% of COVID-19 patients had MS in our study. COVID-19 patients with MS are more likely to develop severe complications and have worse prognosis. More attention should be paid to COVID-19 patients with MS.

Family and household characteristics associated with seropositive cases to SARS-CoV-2 across Mexican households / Características de la estructura familiar y de la vivienda asociadas con casos seropositivos a SARS-CoV-2 en hogares mexicanos

Abstract: Objective: To assess the association of family and housing characteristics with the number of seropositive cases to SARS-CoV-2 in households. Materials and methods: We analyzed 874 households from Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición (Ensanut) 2020 Covid-19 using Poisson regression models. Results: The number of seropositive family members was higher among families composed of children/adolescents, adults and older adults, households with more than two members per bedroom, and among households with closed windows. No association was found for bathroom availability and piped water. Conclusions: Family composition and housing characteristics can impose significant structural barriers to safe home confinement.

Resumen: Objetivo: Determinar la asociación de la estructura familiar y de las características de la vivienda con el número de casos positivos a SARS-CoV-2 a nivel hogar. Material y métodos: Se analizaron 874 hogares de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición (Ensanut) 2020 Covid-19 utilizando modelos de regresión de Poisson. Resultados: El número de miembros seropositivos fue mayor en los hogares compuestos por niños/adolescentes, adultos y adultos mayores, donde más de dos miembros ocupaban la misma habitación y en los hogares donde se observaron ventanas cerradas. No se encontró asociación con la disponibilidad de baño y de agua entubada. Conclusiones: La composición familiar y las características de la vivienda pueden representar barreras importantes para el confinamiento seguro en casa.

Myoglobin and troponin as prognostic factors in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia

Background: The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia 2019 (COVID-19) has caused millions of deaths worldwide. It is well documented that troponin predicts the prognosis of patients. Myoglobin is not only an important marker of myocardial injury, but it indicates systemic muscle damage. However, its relationship with COVID-19 was rarely reported. The present study compared the predictive value of troponin and myoglobin on the final prognosis of COVID-19 patients by analyzing the clinical characteristics and serum levels of myoglobin and troponin in severe/critical COVID-19 patients.MethodsWe enrolled 499 consecutive eligible hospitalized patients with severe/critical COVID-19 from February 14 to March 24, 2020 at Leishenshan Hospital, Wuhan, China. Clinical characteristics and laboratory data were collected and compared between the patients who died and survived. We analyzed the receiver operating characteristic curves of myoglobin and troponin. Then, the patients were divided into myo+ group, myo− group, tro+ group, and tro− group, and survival curves were analyzed. The prognostic predictable values of myoglobin and troponin were further analyzed using Cox multifactorial analysis.ResultsMyoglobin and troponin were significantly elevated in the death group (134.4 [interquartile range (IQR) 24.80, 605] vs 38.02 [IQR 3.87, 11.73]ng/ml, p<0.001), and troponin was also significantly elevated in the death group (0.01 [IQR 0.01, 0.01] vs 0.04 [IQR 0.02, 0.15]ng/ml, p<0.001). The ROC curves demonstrated that the area under the curve when using myoglobin to predict patient death was 0.911, with a threshold of 1.17, which was equivalent to troponin. (AU)

Antecedentes: El brote de la nueva neumonía por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) ha causado millones de muertes en todo el mundo. Está bien documentado que la troponina predice el pronóstico de los pacientes. La mioglobina no solo es un importante marcador de lesión miocárdica, sino que indica daño muscular sistémico. Sin embargo, su relación con la COVID-19 ha sido raramente comunicada. En el presente estudio se ha comparado el valor predictivo de la troponina y la mioglobina en el pronóstico final de los pacientes con COVID-19, analizando las características clínicas y los niveles séricos de mioglobina y troponina en pacientes con COVID-19 en estado grave o crítico.MétodosSe inscribió a 499 pacientes consecutivos elegibles hospitalizados con COVID-19 en estado grave o crítico del 14 de febrero al 24 de marzo de 2020 en el Hospital Leishenshan (Wuhan, China). Se recogieron las características clínicas y los datos de laboratorio y se compararon entre los pacientes que murieron y los que sobrevivieron. Se analizaron las curvas de características operativas del receptor de mioglobina y troponina. A continuación, se dividió a los pacientes en grupo myo+, grupo myo−, grupo tro+ y grupo tro−, y se analizaron las curvas de supervivencia. Los valores pronósticos de la mioglobina y la troponina se analizaron además mediante un análisis multifactorial de Cox.ResultadosLa mioglobina y la troponina estaban significativamente elevadas en el grupo de muerte (134,4; rango intercuartílico [RIQ: 24,80; 605] vs. 38,02; [RIQ: 3,87; 11,73]ng/ml; p<0,001), y la troponina también estaba significativamente elevada en el grupo de muerte (0,01 [RIQ: 0,01; 0,01] vs. 0,04 [RIQ: 0,02; 0,15]ng/ml; p<0,001). Las curvas ROC demostraron que el área bajo la curva al utilizar la mioglobina para predecir la muerte de los pacientes era de 0,911, con un umbral de 1,17, equivalente al de la troponina. (AU)

Myoglobin and troponin as prognostic factors in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

BACKGROUND: The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia 2019 (COVID-19) has caused millions of deaths worldwide. It is well documented that troponin predicts the prognosis of patients. Myoglobin is not only an important marker of myocardial injury, but it indicates systemic muscle damage. However, its relationship with COVID-19 was rarely reported. The present study compared the predictive value of troponin and myoglobin on the final prognosis of COVID-19 patients by analyzing the clinical characteristics and serum levels of myoglobin and troponin in severe/critical COVID-19 patients. METHODS: We enrolled 499 consecutive eligible hospitalized patients with severe/critical COVID-19 from February 14 to March 24, 2020 at Leishenshan Hospital, Wuhan, China. Clinical characteristics and laboratory data were collected and compared between the patients who died and survived. We analyzed the receiver operating characteristic curves of myoglobin and troponin. Then, the patients were divided into myo+ group, myo- group, tro+ group, and tro- group, and survival curves were analyzed. The prognostic predictable values of myoglobin and troponin were further analyzed using Cox multifactorial analysis. RESULTS: Myoglobin and troponin were significantly elevated in the death group (134.4 [interquartile range (IQR) 24.80, 605] vs 38.02 [IQR 3.87, 11.73]ng/ml, p<0.001), and troponin was also significantly elevated in the death group (0.01 [IQR 0.01, 0.01] vs 0.04 [IQR 0.02, 0.15]ng/ml, p<0.001). The ROC curves demonstrated that the area under the curve when using myoglobin to predict patient death was 0.911, with a threshold of 1.17, which was equivalent to troponin. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed a significantly lower survival curve in the myo+ group than the myo- group. Multifactor Cox survival analysis showed that troponin was no longer significant (HR=0.98, 95% CI 0.92-1.03, p=0.507), but elevated myoglobin was an independent predictor of death in COVID-19 patients (HR=1.001, 95% CI 1.001-1.002, p<0.001). The analysis of the Cox model for predicting patient death and plotting decision curves suggested that the single factor myoglobin model was superior to troponin, and the predictive value of the multifactor model was superior to the single-factor analyses. CONCLUSIONS: In severe/critical COVID-19 patients, myoglobin and troponin were predictors of mortality and the probability of conversion to critical illness, and myoglobin may be superior to troponin for predictive value.

Point-of-care ultrasonography in the initial characterization of patients with COVID-19

Background: There is growing evidence regarding the imaging findings of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in chest X-rays and computed tomography scans; however, their availability during this pandemic outbreak might be compromised. Currently, the role of point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) has yet to be explored.ObjectivesTo describe the POCUS findings of COVID-19 in patients with the disease admitted to the emergency department (ED), correlating them with vital signs, laboratory and radiologic results, therapeutic decisions, and the prognosis.MethodsProspective study performed in the ED of 2 academic hospitals. Patients with highly suspected or confirmed COVID-19 underwent a lung ultrasonography (lung POCUS), focused cardiac ultrasound (FOCUS), and inferior vena cava (IVC) exam.ResultsBetween March and April 2020, 96 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 68.2 years (SD 17.5). The most common findings in the lung POCUS were an irregular pleural line (63.2%), bilateral confluence (55.2%), and isolated B-lines (53.1%), which were associated with a positive RT-PCR (odds ratio 4.327; 95% CI 1.216–15.401; p<.001), and correlated with IL-6 levels (rho=0.622; p=.002). The IVC negatively correlated with levels of expiratory pO2 (rho=−0.539; p=.014) and inspiratory pO2 (rho=−0.527; p=0.017), and expiratory diameter positively correlated with troponin I (rho=0.509; p=.03). After the POCUS exam, almost 20% of the patients had an associated condition that required a change in their treatment or management.ConclusionsPOCUS parameters have the potential to impact the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19. (AU)

Antecedentes: Existe una evidencia creciente con respecto a los hallazgos por imagen de la COVID-19, tanto en radiografías de tórax como en tomografía computarizada; sin embargo, la disponibilidad de estas técnicas durante la pandemia podría verse comprometida.ObjetivosDescribir los hallazgos en la ecografía en el punto de atención (POCUS) en pacientes con COVID-19 que consultaron en el servicio de urgencias (SU), correlacionándolos con signos vitales, resultados analíticos y radiológicos, decisiones terapéuticas y pronóstico.MétodosEstudio prospectivo realizado en los SU de dos hospitales académicos. Los pacientes con COVID-19 con alta sospecha o confirmada se sometieron a una ecografía pulmonar (POCUS pulmonar), una ecocardioscopia y una ecografía de la vena cava inferior (VCI).ResultadosEntre marzo y abril del 2020, se reclutaron 96 pacientes. La edad media fue de 68,2 años (DE 17,5). Los hallazgos más comunes en el POCUS pulmonar fueron la línea pleural irregular (63,2%), las líneas B confluyentes bilateral (55,2%) y aisladas (53,1%), que se vincularon con una RT-PCR (odds ratio 4,327; IC 95% 1,216 a 15,401; p < 0,001), y se asoció con los niveles de interleucina-6 (IL-6) (ρ = 0,622; p = 0,002). La VCI se correlacionó negativamente con los niveles de pO2 espiratorio (ρ = − 0,539; p = 0,014) y pO2 inspiratorio (ρ = − 0,527; p = 0,017), y el diámetro espiratorio se relacionó positivamente con la troponina I (ρ = 0,509; p = 0, 03). Después del examen POCUS, casi el 20% de los pacientes tenían una condición asociada que requería un cambio en el tratamiento o manejo previo.ConclusionesLos parámetros POCUS tienen el potencial de afectar el diagnóstico, manejo y pronóstico de pacientes con sospecha o confirmación de COVID-19. (AU)

Efectividad de los glucocorticoides en pacientes hospitalizados por neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 / Effectiveness of glucocorticoids in patients hospitalized for severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia

Introducción: Se han comunicado varios trabajos donde se ha demostrado un efecto beneficioso de los glucocorticoides como tratamiento de la tormenta de citocinas que se asocia a los cuadros graves por SARS-CoV-2, plateándose diferentes pautas de glucocorticoides.MétodosEstudio observacional retrospectivo que incluye pacientes con neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 y compara el ingreso en una unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) o fallecimiento durante la hospitalización en 3 grupos de pacientes: sin tratamiento con glucocorticoides, uso de dosis diarias de glucocorticoides equivalentes menores a 250mg de prednisona y dosis diarias equivalentes mayores o iguales a 250mg de prednisona. Se realizó un análisis multivariante mediante regresión logística, utilizando el índice de propensión como covariante.ResultadosDe los 259 pacientes incorporados al estudio 67 (25,9%) tuvieron una evolución desfavorable, falleciendo o precisando ingreso en UCI. Los análisis comparativos entre diferentes tratamientos con glucocorticoides, y la asociación con ingreso en UCI o fallecimiento fueron: tratamiento con glucocorticoides (cualquier dosis) versus sin tratamiento con glucocorticoides (OR: 0,71 [0,30-1,66]), tratamiento con glucocorticoides (≥250mg de prednisona al día) versus sin tratamiento con glucocorticoides (OR: 0,35 [0,11-1,08]) y tratamiento con glucocorticoides (≥250mg de prednisona al día) versus pacientes con dosis de glucocorticoides<250mg de prednisona o sin tratamiento con glucocorticoides (OR: 0,30 [0,10-0,88]).ConclusiónLos resultados de este estudio muestran que los paciente con neumonía grave por SARS-CoV-2 tratados con pulsos con glucocorticoides con dosis equivalentes de prednisona mayor o igual de 250mg tienen una evolución más favorable (menos mortalidad e ingreso en UCI). (AU)

Introduction: Several studies have reported the beneficial effect of glucocorticoids in the treatment of cytokine storm that occurs in patients with severe COVID-19. Various glucocorticoids regimens have been proposed.MethodsRetrospective observational study that includes patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and compares admission to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or death during hospitalization in three groups of patients: no glucocorticoids treatment, use of glucocorticoids doses equivalent to less than 250mg of prednisone daily and use of equivalent doses greater than or equal to 250mg of prednisone daily. Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression, using the propensity index as a covariant.ResultsOf the 259 patients enrolled in the study, 67 (25.9%) had an unfavorable evolution, dying or requiring ICU admission. Comparative analyzes between different glucocorticoids treatments and the association with ICU admission or death were: glucocorticoids treatment (any dose) versus no glucocorticoids treatment (OR: 0.71 [0.30-1.66]), treatment with glucocorticoids (≥250mg prednisone daily) versus no glucocorticoids treatment (OR: 0.35 [0.11-1.08]) and glucocorticoids treatment (≥250mg prednisone daily) versus patients with glucocorticoids doses <250mg prednisone daily or without glucocorticoids treatment (OR: 0.30 [0.10-0.88]).ConclusionThe results of this study show that patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia treated with glucocorticoids pulses with equivalent doses of prednisone greater than or equal to 250mg have a more favorable evolution (less mortality and less admission to ICU). (AU)

[Point-of-care ultrasonography in the initial characterization of patients with COVID-19]. / La ecografía clínica en la caracterización inicial de los pacientes con COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: There is growing evidence regarding the imaging findings of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in chest X-rays and computed tomography scans; however, their availability during this pandemic outbreak might be compromised. Currently, the role of point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) has yet to be explored. OBJECTIVES: To describe the POCUS findings of COVID-19 in patients with the disease admitted to the emergency department (ED), correlating them with vital signs, laboratory and radiologic results, therapeutic decisions, and the prognosis. METHODS: Prospective study performed in the ED of 2 academic hospitals. Patients with highly suspected or confirmed COVID-19 underwent a lung ultrasonography (lung POCUS), focused cardiac ultrasound (FOCUS), and inferior vena cava (IVC) exam. RESULTS: Between March and April 2020, 96 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 68.2 years (SD 17.5). The most common findings in the lung POCUS were an irregular pleural line (63.2%), bilateral confluence (55.2%), and isolated B-lines (53.1%), which were associated with a positive RT-PCR (odds ratio 4.327; 95% CI 1.216-15.401; p<.001), and correlated with IL-6 levels (rho=0.622; p=.002). The IVC negatively correlated with levels of expiratory pO2 (rho=-0.539; p=.014) and inspiratory pO2 (rho=-0.527; p=0.017), and expiratory diameter positively correlated with troponin I (rho=0.509; p=.03). After the POCUS exam, almost 20% of the patients had an associated condition that required a change in their treatment or management. CONCLUSIONS: POCUS parameters have the potential to impact the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19.