Influence of visceral adiposity on cardiovascular risk in patients with systemic sclerosis.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, generalized fibrosis and high cardiovascular mortality. The evaluation of cardiovascular risk through the visceral adiposity index (VAI) has been helpful due to its direct relationship to the body and visceral fat percentage. We evaluated the influence of body composition and anthropometrics on cardiovascular risk as measured by VAI in healthy controls (HC) and SSc. An analytical cross-sectional study of 66 participants (33 SSc and 33 HC), mean age 52.7 ± 10, 95% women, was conducted from August 2020 to January 2021. Inclusion criteria in cases were consecutive patients with SSc (ACR/EULAR 2013), 63.6% were diffuse cutaneous (dcSS) subtype, and 36.4 were limited cutaneous (lcSS) subtype. HC was matched by age and gender. Serum lipid profiles and InBody anthropometrics were analyzed and compared. We performed descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis with Student's t, or Mann-Whitney U, correlation and chi-square according to the variable type and distribution. Total cholesterol was significantly higher in SSc than HC (345 vs 194, p = < 0.001). The BMI was higher in HC (26.2 vs 28.9, p < 0.001). Kilograms of muscle (19.8 vs 28.9, p < 0.001) and total fat (23.4 vs 28.9, p < 0.001) were lower in SSc patients compared to HC. VAI was similar when BMI < 25, but significantly higher when BMI > 25 in SSc than in HC (3 vs 1.9, p = 0.030). The increase in BMI at overweight or obese in SSc is associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular risk.

New Onset Autoimmune Diseases after the Sputnik Vaccine.

The vertiginous advance for identifying the genomic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 allowed the development of a vaccine including mRNA-based vaccines, inactivated viruses, protein subunits, and adenoviral vaccines such as Sputnik. This study aims to report on autoimmune disease manifestations that occurred following COVID-19 Sputnik vaccination. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients with new-onset autoimmune diseases induced by a post-COVID-19 vaccine between March 2021 and December 2022, in two referral hospitals in Mexico City and Argentina. The study evaluated patients who received the Sputnik vaccine and developed recent-onset autoimmune diseases. Results: Twenty-eight patients developed recent-onset autoimmune diseases after Sputnik vaccine. The median age was 56.9 ± 21.7 years, with 14 females and 14 males. The autoimmune diseases observed were neurological in 13 patients (46%), hematological autoimmune manifestations occurred in 12 patients (42%), with thrombotic disease observed in 10 patients (28%), and autoimmune hemolytic anemia in two patients (7.1%). Rheumatological disorders were present in two patients (7.1%), and endocrine disorders in one patient (3.5%). Principio del formulario Conclusion: Although the COVID-19 Sputnik vaccine is generally safe, it can lead to adverse effects. Thrombosis and Guillain-Barre were the most frequent manifestations observed in our group of patients.

Disability and cognitive impairment are interdependent in primary antiphospholipid syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Cognitive impairment (CI) occurs at a high frequency in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). Its psychosocial-related factors are of interest. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine disability and perceived stress and their correlation with CI in PAPS. METHODS: First study phase: a longitudinal study including patients with PAPS and paired controls for cardiovascular risk factors, age, and sex, determining CI with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and then repeating the measurement 1 year later. Second study phase: a cross-sectional analytical study by quantification of disability with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0) and perceived stress with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14). Descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation coefficient were used. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients with PAPS and 60 controls were studied. In PAPS, age (range, 48.0 ± 13.5 years), thrombotic artery events (TAE) (44.4%), and stroke/TIA (42.8%) were found. Disability was documented in the majority of WHODAS 2.0 domains and the total score for this was higher in participation and mobility, the stress level was normal, and 65.1% had CI. PAPS exhibited greater deterioration in the WHODAS 2.0 total score (p .017) and the MoCA test (p < .0001). Personal domains and the total WHODAS 2.0 score correlated inversely with MoCA. Life activities (rho = -0.419) and self-care (rho = -0.407) were those that correlated to the greatest degree. Stroke conferred risk for CI. CONCLUSIONS: Disability in PAPS and CI are interdependent. New treatment options and neurocognitive stimulation strategies are necessary to maintain functionality and prevent further cognitive dysfunction in PAPS patients.

Risk Factors and Outcomes for COVID-19 in Autoimmune Inflammatory Diseases during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: Patients with autoimmune disease (AID) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could have higher mortality due to the co-morbidity and the use of immunosuppressive therapy. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the risk factors and outcomes of patients with AID and COVID-19 versus a control group. METHODS: A prospective cohort study included patients with and without AID and COVID-19. Patients were paired by age and sex. Clinical, biochemical, immunological treatments, and outcomes (days of hospital stay, invasive mechanical ventilation [IMV], oxygen at discharge, and death) were collected. RESULTS: We included 226 COVID-19 patients: 113 with AID (51.15 ± 14.3 years) and 113 controls (53.45 ± 13.3 years). The most frequent AIDs were Rheumatoid arthritis (26.5%), systemic lupus erythematosus (21%), and systemic sclerosis (14%). AID patients had lower lactate dehydrogenas, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, IMV (P = 0.027), and oxygen levels at discharge (P ≤ 0.0001) and lower death rates (P ≤ 0.0001). Oxygen saturation (SaO2) ≤ 88% at hospitalization provided risk for IMV (RR [relative risk] 3.83, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.1-13.6, P = 0.038). Higher creatinine and LDH levels were associated with death in the AID group. SaO2 ≤ 88% and CO-RADS ≥ 4 were risk factors for in-hospital mortality (RR 4.90, 95%CI 1.8-13.0, P = 0.001 and RR 7.60, 95%CI 1.4-39.7, P = 0.016, respectively). Anticoagulant therapy was protective (RR 0.36, 95%CI 0.1-0.9, P = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with AID had better outcomes with COVID-19 than controls. Anticoagulation was associated with a lower death in patients with AID.

Disease course of Chronic Relapsing Inflammatory Optic Neuropathy (CRION) in a single care center / Evolución de la enfermedad de la neuropatía óptica inflamatoria crónica recidivante (CRION) en un solo centro de atención

ABSTRACT Background: Chronic relapsing inflammatory optic neuropathy (CRION) is a recurrent, idiopathic optic neuritis and is considered as a rare disease. Objective: To describe the clinical course during long-term follow-up of patients with a diagnosis of CRION. Methods: From a cohort of 1,735 patients with demyelinating disorders, we selected patients aged over 16 years with CRION according to current criteria. Demographic and clinical data, including initial presentation, symptoms, number of relapses, time delay in diagnosis, diagnostic methods, and treatment were obtained from clinical files. Infections, autoimmune diseases, and multiple sclerosis, among other conditions, were ruled out in all patients. Results: We analyzed 30 patients with CRION: 24 women and six men, with mean age of 42.8±10.2 years, median disease course of 7.9 years (5.29-13.1), and median number of attacks of 2 (IQR 2-4). The initial manifestation was ocular pain in 97% and bilateral and sequential affection in 87%. Visual acuity was recovered in 50%, did not improve in 33%, and recovered incompletely in 17%. Antibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4-Abs) were negative in 73.3%. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was normal in 76.7%. None of the patients evolved to another demyelinating disease over time. Initial treatment was methylprednisolone in 100%, and plasmapheresis in 20%. Currently, all patients are on maintenance treatment with mycophenolate mofetil or rituximab with a decrease in relapsing rate. Conclusions: Diagnosis of CRION is challenging and should be kept in mind. Prompt diagnosis, adequate treatment and close follow-up are essential to prevent disabling sequelae in these patients.

RESUMEN Antecedentes: Neuropatía óptica inflamatoria crónica recidivante (CRION) es una neuritis óptica idiopática recurrente, considerada una enfermedad rara. Objetivo: Describir la evolución clínica durante el seguimiento a largo plazo de pacientes con diagnóstico de CRION. Métodos: De una cohorte de 1.735 pacientes con trastornos desmielinizantes, seleccionamos pacientes mayores de 16 años con diagnóstico de CRION según los criterios actuales. Datos demográficos y clínicos, incluyendo presentación inicial, síntomas, recaídas, tiempo de retraso diagnóstico, métodos de diagnóstico y tratamiento se obtuvieron de los archivos clínicos. Se descartaron en todos los pacientes infecciones, enfermedades autoinmunes, esclerosis múltiple, entre otras condiciones. Resultados: Se analizaron 30 pacientes con diagnóstico de CRION: 24 mujeres y 6 hombres, edad media de 42,8±10,2 años, mediana del curso de la enfermedad de 7,9 años (5,2-13,1), mediana del número de recaídas 2 (IQR 2-4). La manifestación inicial fue dolor ocular en el 97% y afección bilateral y secuencial en el 87%. La agudeza visual mejoró en el 50%, sin recuperación en el 33% y con restauración incompleta en el 17%. Los anticuerpos contra acuaporina-4 (AQP4-Abs) fueron negativos en el 73,3%. La resonancia magnética cerebral fue normal en el 76,7%. Ningún paciente evolucionó hacia otra enfermedad desmielinizante en el seguimiento. El tratamiento inicial fue metilprednisolona en el 100%, y plasmaféresis en el 20%. Actualmente, todos los pacientes están en tratamiento de mantenimiento con micofenolato de mofetilo o rituximab con disminución de la tasa de recaídas. Conclusiones: El diagnóstico de CRION representa un desafío y debe tenerse en cuenta. El diagnóstico oportuno, tratamiento adecuado y seguimiento estrecho son fundamentales para evitar secuelas invalidantes.

Disease course of Chronic Relapsing Inflammatory Optic Neuropathy (CRION) in a single care center.

BACKGROUND: Chronic relapsing inflammatory optic neuropathy (CRION) is a recurrent, idiopathic optic neuritis and is considered as a rare disease. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical course during long-term follow-up of patients with a diagnosis of CRION. METHODS: From a cohort of 1,735 patients with demyelinating disorders, we selected patients aged over 16 years with CRION according to current criteria. Demographic and clinical data, including initial presentation, symptoms, number of relapses, time delay in diagnosis, diagnostic methods, and treatment were obtained from clinical files. Infections, autoimmune diseases, and multiple sclerosis, among other conditions, were ruled out in all patients. RESULTS: We analyzed 30 patients with CRION: 24 women and six men, with mean age of 42.8±10.2 years, median disease course of 7.9 years (5.29-13.1), and median number of attacks of 2 (IQR 2-4). The initial manifestation was ocular pain in 97% and bilateral and sequential affection in 87%. Visual acuity was recovered in 50%, did not improve in 33%, and recovered incompletely in 17%. Antibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4-Abs) were negative in 73.3%. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was normal in 76.7%. None of the patients evolved to another demyelinating disease over time. Initial treatment was methylprednisolone in 100%, and plasmapheresis in 20%. Currently, all patients are on maintenance treatment with mycophenolate mofetil or rituximab with a decrease in relapsing rate. CONCLUSIONS: Diagnosis of CRION is challenging and should be kept in mind. Prompt diagnosis, adequate treatment and close follow-up are essential to prevent disabling sequelae in these patients.

[Body composition and physical activity in resident physicians]. / Composición corporal y actividad física en médicos residentes.

BACKGROUND: Mexico is ranked second in obesity in adults worldwide and resident physicians are not exempt from this problem. Inadequate diet and physical inactivity are associated factors. Bioimpedance has greater precision than anthropometry. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the difference between degree of physical activity, caloric intake and body composition in Internal Medicine residents according to their degree of residence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Resident physicians of both sexes, from second, third and fourth degree of training were included; they were fasting. Vital signs were taken; a Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) questionnaire, anthropometry, a 24-hour reminder, and bioelectrical impedance analysis were administered. Descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis and chi squared tests were used. RESULTS: 84 resident physicians were included, 48 were male. The median age was of 27 years (26-28). There was a prevalence of 46.4% of overweight and obesity, despite the hypocaloric diet in 89%. Bioelectrical impedance analysis showed that 72.6% of residents had elevated body fat, 71% sub-optimal degree of physical activity and 23.7% arterial hypertension. CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of overweight and obesity was found with differences in body composition and suboptimal level of physical activity. It is important to correct bad eating habits and improve physical activity to reduce risks in this population.

INTRODUCCIÓN: México es segundo lugar mundial en obesidad en adultos y los médicos residentes no están exentos de este problema. La dieta inadecuada y la inactividad física son factores asociados. La bioimpedancia tiene mayor precisión que la antropometría. OBJETIVO: analizar la diferencia entre grado de actividad física, ingesta calórica y composición corporal en residentes de Medicina Interna de acuerdo con su grado de residencia. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio transversal. Se incluyeron médicos residentes de ambos sexos de segundo, tercero y cuarto grado, quienes participaron en ayuno. Se les tomaron signos vitales, se les otorgó el cuestionario Rapid Assesment of Physical Activity (RAPA), antropometría, recordatorio de 24 horas y medición de composición corporal por bioimpedancia. Se empleó estadística descriptiva, prueba de Kruskal-Wallis y chi cuadrada. RESULTADOS: se incluyeron 84 médicos residentes, 48 (57.14%) fueron del género masculino. La mediana de edad fue de 27 años (26-28). Se encontró una prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad de 46.4% a pesar de la dieta hipocalórica en el 89%. La medición por bioimpedancia indicó que 72.6% tuvo grasa corporal elevada, 71% grado de actividad física subóptimo y 23.7% hipertensión arterial. CONCLUSIONES: se encontró una alta prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad con diferencias en la composición corporal y el nivel subóptimo de actividad física. Es importante corregir los malos hábitos alimenticios y mejorar la actividad física para reducir riesgos en esta población.

Composición corporal y actividad física en médicos residentes / Body composition and physical activity in resident physicians

Introducción: México es segundo lugar mundial en obesidad en adultos y los médicos residentes no están exentos de este problema. La dieta inadecuada y la inactividad física son factores asociados. La bioimpedancia tiene mayor precisión que la antropometría. Objetivo: analizar la diferencia entre grado de actividad física, ingesta calórica y composición corporal en residentes de Medicina Interna de acuerdo con su grado de residencia. Material y métodos: estudio transversal. Se incluyeron médicos residentes de ambos sexos de segundo, tercero y cuarto grado, quienes participaron en ayuno. Se les tomaron signos vitales, se les otorgó el cuestionario Rapid Assesment of Physical Activity (RAPA), antropometría, recordatorio de 24 horas y medición de composición corporal por bioimpedancia. Se empleó estadística descriptiva, prueba de Kruskal-Wallis y chi cuadrada. Resultados: se incluyeron 84 médicos residentes, 48 (57.14%) fueron del género masculino. La mediana de edad fue de 27 años (26-28). Se encontró una prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad de 46.4% a pesar de la dieta hipocalórica en el 89%. La medición por bioimpedancia indicó que 72.6% tuvo grasa corporal elevada, 71% grado de actividad física subóptimo y 23.7% hipertensión arterial. Conclusiones: se encontró una alta prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad con diferencias en la composición corporal y el nivel subóptimo de actividad física. Es importante corregir los malos hábitos alimenticios y mejorar la actividad física para reducir riesgos en esta población.

Background: Mexico is ranked second in obesity in adults worldwide and resident physicians are not exempt from this problem. Inadequate diet and physical inactivity are associated factors. Bioimpedance has greater precision than anthropometry. Objective: To analyze the difference between degree of physical activity, caloric intake and body composition in Internal Medicine residents according to their degree of residence. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study. Resident physicians of both sexes, from second, third and fourth degree of training were included; they were fasting. Vital signs were taken; a Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) questionnaire, anthropometry, a 24-hour reminder, and bioelectrical impedance analysis were administered. Descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis and chi squared tests were used. Results: 84 resident physicians were included, 48 were male. The median age was of 27 years (26-28). There was a prevalence of 46.4% of overweight and obesity, despite the hypocaloric diet in 89%. Bioelectrical impedance analysis showed that 72.6% of residents had elevated body fat, 71% sub-optimal degree of physical activity and 23.7% arterial hypertension. Conclusions: A high prevalence of overweight and obesity was found with differences in body composition and suboptimal level of physical activity. It is important to correct bad eating habits and improve physical activity to reduce risks in this population.

[Late onset primary antiphospholipid syndrome in the older adult]. / Síndrome antifosfolípido primario con debut tardío en el adulto mayor.

BACKGROUND: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disease, characterized by arterial or venous thrombosis and/or obstetric events in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). It is usually diagnosed in patients between the ages of 15 and 50 years, and there are 5 new cases per 100,000 people per year. It is reported a case of APS, which it is present in an older adult with an unusual clinical manifestation. CLINICAL CASE: Female patient without history of autoimmune diseases, at age 70 presented hemolytic anemia, Coombs direct positive, classified as autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AHAI) Coombs+, and severe thrombocytopenia. Other immunological, infectious, and lymphoid proliferative disorders and solid tumors were ruled out. Fisher-Evans syndrome (FES) was diagnosed with good response to treatment. Three months later, the patient presented deep venous thrombosis in the left pelvic limb, positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and positive aloantibodies were determined, establishing the diagnosis of primary APS and FES as its initial manifestation. Since then, the patient has been in treatment with acenocoumarol and prednisone without new recurrences of thrombosis, with persistence of moderate thrombocytopenia, without adding another clinical manifestation in 15 years of follow-up. CONCLUSION: The unusual presentation of this disease in older adults with comorbidities should not rule out the possibility of the development of a primary autoimmune disease, so it should be considered for diagnosis in this age group.

INTRODUCCIÓN: el síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) es una enfermedad autoinmune sistémica, caracterizada por trombosis arterial o venosa, o eventos obstétricos en presencia de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos (aPL). Suele diagnosticarse entre los 15 y los 50 años, y hay cinco casos nuevos por cada 100 000 personas al año. Se reporta un caso de SAF que presenta una adulta mayor con manifestación clínica poco usual. CASO CLÍNICO: paciente mujer, sin antecedentes de enfermedades autoinmunes, que a los 70 años presentó anemia hemolítica y Coombs directo positivo, lo cual se catalogó como anemia hemolítica autoinmune (AHAI) Coombs+, y trombocitopenia severa. Se descartaron otros trastornos inmunológicos, infecciosos, linfoproliferativos y tumores sólidos, y se diagnosticó síndrome de Fisher-Evans (SFE) con buena respuesta al tratamiento. Tres meses después, la paciente presentó trombosis venosa profunda en miembro pélvico izquierdo. Se determinaron aPL positivos y aloanticuerpos positivos, y se estableció el diagnóstico de SAF primario y como su manifestación inicial el SFE. Desde entonces la paciente fue tratada con acenocumarina y prednisona sin recurrencias de trombosis, con persistencia de trombocitopenia moderada y sin nuevas manifestaciones clínicas en 15 años de seguimiento. CONCLUSIÓN: ante la presentación inusual de esta enfermedad en adultos mayores con comorbilidades no se debe descartar la posibilidad del desarrollo de una enfermedad autoinmune primaria, por lo cual se debe tener en cuenta para su diagnóstico en este grupo etario.

Development and Evaluation of a Set of Spike and Receptor Binding Domain-Based Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays for SARS-CoV-2 Serological Testing.

The implementation and validation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG serological assays are reported in this paper. S1 and RBD proteins were used to coat ELISA plates, and several secondary antibodies served as reporters. The assays were initially validated with 50 RT-PCR positive COVID-19 sera, which showed high IgG titers of mainly IgG1 isotype, followed by IgG3. Low or no IgG2 and IgG4 titers were detected. Then, the RBD/IgG assay was further validated with 887 serum samples from RT-PCR positive COVID-19 individuals collected at different times, including 7, 14, 21, and 40 days after the onset of symptoms. Most of the sera were IgG positive at day 40, with seroconversion happening after 14-21 days. A third party conducted an additional performance test of the RBD/IgG assay with 406 sera, including 149 RT-PCR positive COVID-19 samples, 229 RT-PCR negative COVID-19 individuals, and 28 sera from individuals with other viral infections not related to SARS-CoV-2. The sensitivity of the assay was 99.33%, with a specificity of 97.82%. All the sera collected from individuals with infectious diseases other than COVID-19 were negative. Given the robustness of this RBD/IgG assay, it received approval from the sanitary authority in Mexico (COFEPRIS) for production and commercialization under the name UDISTEST-V2G®.

Standard versus extended criteria graft procurement. Experience at the Hospital de Especialidades La Raza. / Procuración de injertos estándar frente a extendidos. Experiencia en el Hospital de Especialidades La Raza.

BACKGROUND: In Mexico, there are 23 158 patients waiting for an organ or tissue transplant. The increasing demand of grafts justifies the use of expanded criteria donors; however, not even all standard grafts have been procured. OBJECTIVE: To identify the associated factors to the decision of not procuring grafts from brain death donors whose donation was consented. METHOD: Retrospective cohort, univariate and multivariate analysis. 35 donation files with brain death were included from 2014 to 2019. Groups in which the heart wasn't procured versus those in which it was procured were compared; same comparisons were made for liver, kidney, skin, bone tissue and corneas. RESULTS: 20 women (57.1%), 15 men (42.9%) average age of 43.8 ± 16.4 years. High-dose of inotropic or norepinephrine use increased the probability of cardiac procurement (odds ratio [OR] 0.57; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.0-0.5). It was not detected a sensitive and specific variable for decision making at liver procurement. Implementation of two or more diagnostic methods for BD were associated with kidney loss (OR: 10; 95% CI: 1.2-78.1). Organs and tissues met standard criteria; however, 76 (41.5%) were not procured. CONCLUSIONS: Non-procurement associated factors were different from the standard donor established criteria. It is necessary to follow clear procurement criteria, in order to reduce viable grafts loss.

INTRODUCCIÓN: En México se registraron 23,158 personas en espera de un órgano o tejido para trasplante durante el año 2019. El constante aumento de la demanda sustenta el empleo de donantes con criterios extendidos; sin embargo, no todos los injertos estándar se procuran. OBJETIVO: Identificar los factores asociados a la decisión de no procurar injertos provenientes de donantes con muerte encefálica en quienes se consintió la donación. MÉTODO: Cohorte retrospectiva, análisis univariado y multivariado. Se incluyeron 35 expedientes de donación concretada con muerte encefálica de 2014 a 2019. Se compararon los grupos en los que no se procuró corazón, en los que sí, y para hígado, riñón, tejido óseo, piel y córneas. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 20 mujeres (57.1%) y 15 hombres (42.9%) con una edad media de 43.8 ± 16.4 años. El uso de inotrópico a dosis altas o norepinefrina aumentó la probabilidad de procuración cardiaca (razón de momios [RM]: 0.57; intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 0.0-0.5). No se detectó ninguna variable sensible y específica para la toma de decisión en la procuración hepática. El empleo de dos o más métodos diagnósticos de muerte encefálica se asoció a pérdida del riñón (RM: 10; IC95%: 1.2-78.1). Cumplieron con criterios estándar 183 órganos y tejidos (74.6%); sin embargo, 76 (41.5%) no fueron procurados. CONCLUSIONES: Los factores asociados a la decisión de no procuración fueron distintos a los criterios de donante estándar establecidos. Es necesario seguir criterios claros de procuración para disminuir la pérdida de injertos viables.

Effectiveness of Saccharomyces boulardii and Metronidazole for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Systemic Sclerosis.

BACKGROUND: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) affects up to 60% of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), and it improves with antibiotics. The addition of probiotics could lead to better results. AIMS: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii (SB) versus metronidazole (M) versus M + SB for 2 months, to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and SIBO assessed with hydrogen breath test in SSc. METHODS: An open pilot clinical trial performed in forty patients with SIBO and SSc (ACR-EULAR 2013) who signed informed consent. Three groups were assigned: M, SB, and M + SB, for 2 months. Hydrogen was measured in parts per million with a hydrogen breath test to evaluate SIBO. The National Institutes of Health Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (NIH-PROMIS) questionnaire was applied to quantify gastrointestinal symptoms with a raw score of eight symptoms. This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: NCT03692299. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. The average age was 53.2 ± 9.3 years, and the evolution of SSc was 13.5 (1-34) years. After 2 months of treatment, SIBO was eradicated in 55% of the M + SB group: 33% of SB, and 25% of M. The SB and M + SB groups had decreased diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gas/bloating/flatulence, but M remained unchanged. Reductions in expired hydrogen at 45 to 60 min were as follows: M + SB 48% and 44%, M 18% and 20%, and SB 53% and 60% at the first and second months, respectively (p < 0.01). Adverse effects were epigastric burning and constipation in M (53%) and M + SB (36%), and flatulence/diarrhea in SB (22%). CONCLUSIONS: Metronidazole treatment is partially effective in SIBO, but S. boulardii in monotherapy or in combination improves the gastrointestinal outcomes in SSc.

The Systemic Sclerosis Questionnaire (SySQ): Validation of the translation of the original German version into Spanish and its relationship to the disease and to quality of life. / Cuestionario de funcionalidad para esclerosis sistémica (SySQ): validación en español del original en alemán y su relación con la enfermedad y la calidad de vida.

OBJECTIVE: Translation, transculturation and validity of the self-administered questionnaire for functionality (Systemic Sclerosis Questionnaires [SySQ]) for use in Spanish patients with systemic sclerosis and its relationship to the severity of the disease and to quality of life. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted an observational analytical study to perform a cross-cultural validation of the self-administered questionnaire on functionality in scleroderma. The validity of the form and content was evaluated by an expert panel. The method included: a) adaptation into Spanish of the construct for translation and back translation, and transculturation; b) internal consistency with the SySQ (Cronbach's alpha), and c) reproducibility was assessed taking into account all occasions in which the test was performed with Cohen's kappa. Additionally, we calculated the Spearman correlation coefficient with the Medsger severity scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire score and SF-36 score. RESULTS: We included 70 patients with systemic sclerosis: age 17-78 (51±12) years, 65 (93%) were women, diffuse/limited subtype 64/36%, disease duration of 0.5-40 years. Optimal internal consistency for all categories of the final version of SySQ (Cronbach's α of 0.961) and intraobserver reliability in 2 tests over a 2-week interval (Cohen's kappa coefficient 0.618) and optimal interobserver reliability in 2 tests on the same day (Cohen's kappa coefficient 0.911). Moderate correlation between functionality by SySQ and by Health Assessment Questionnaire (r=0.573, P<.0001). Inverse correlation between SySQ and quality of life mental health domain SF-36 (r=-0.435, P<.001) and physical domain SF-36 (r=-0.638, P<.001). Medsger severity scale (tendon, heart, lung, vascular) also showed significant correlation with SySQ. CONCLUSIONS: SySQ in this validated Spanish version is a suitable instrument to measure functional status in patients with systemic sclerosis. Reduced functionality is related to greater tendon and peripheral vascular involvement and to a poorer quality of life.

Autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by mineral oil: a health problem.

Autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvant (ASIA) includes the following conditions: siliconosis, Gulf War syndrome, macrophagic myofasciitis syndrome, and post-vaccination phenomena. Afterward, other syndromes have been recognized, such as in ASIA by mineral oil (ASIA-MO). These conditions are triggered by adjuvants and they are the result of the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. ASIA-MO is defined as the infiltration of oily type modeling substances for cosmetic purposes. It has been reported in many countries and used surreptitiously. Pathogenesis of ASIA-MO is not clear, but is characterized by chronic granulomatous inflammation, like the pristane model in mice, with increase of proinflammatory cytokines: type I interferons (IFNα and IFNß), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and erosive arthritis. In humans, an increase of interleukin 1 (IL-1) has been found. Clinical spectrum of ASIA-MO is heterogeneous, varying from mild to severe and being local and systemic. The systemic manifestations can be non-specific and specific, meeting criteria for any autoimmune disease (AID), i.e., SLE, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic sclerosis, among others. The areas of the body where the mineral oil is mostly applied include the following: buttocks (38-72%), breasts (12-16%), lower extremities (18-22%), and face (6-10%). The penis augmentation is also common. Treatment is focused on local and systemic manifestations and requires medical and surgical management representing a challenge for the physician.

Myocardial function in primary antiphospholipid syndrome using speckle-tracking echocardiography.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) patients have high cardiovascular risk. Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) detects myocardial function. To evaluate the myocardial function in primary APS (PAPS) patients using two-dimensional echocardiography (2-D) obtaining values of left ventricle global longitudinal strain (GLS) by STE. Patients with PAPS, > 16 years, both genders, without signs and symptoms of heart disease were recruited and matched with healthy controls by age and gender. Demographic, clinical data, and cardiovascular risk factors were recorded. Images from the two-, three-, and four-chamber views were recorded and analyzed with STE and values of GLS. Descriptive and analytic statistics were applied. Thirty-eight PAPS patients and 21 controls were included. Age 46.7 ± 10, disease evolution 13.06 ± 6.69 years. Obesity and dyslipidemia were more frequent in PAPS patients in comparison with controls. Even though the proportion of obesity was greater in PAPS patients than in the control group, we did not find significant differences, neither in patients with/without metabolic syndrome. Regarding patients with and without obesity with lower GLS values, there were no differences either. Average GLS was lower in PAPS than in controls. Segments and myocardial regions showed lower values of myocardial deformation in PAPS patients than controls, including apical segments suggesting underlying heart disease. GLS is reduced in PAPS compared with healthy subjects. STE is a suitable method to detect cardiac affection in patients without apparent cardiac involvement. Studies with this technique to monitor progression of heart disease in PAPS are necessary.

Splenectomy in systemic lupus erythematosus and autoimmune hematologic disease: a comparative analysis.

The objective of the study is to analyze the efficacy and safety of splenectomy in the management of refractory autoimmune thrombocytopenia (AT)/autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) associated or not with systemic lupus erythematosus. Thirty-four patients after splenectomy due to severe AT and/or AIHA were divided into group 1 (G1) 18 SLE/APS patients: 9 AT/SLE patients, 6 SLE/antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), and 3 primary APS. Group 2 (G2): 16 patients without SLE/APS: 2 Fisher-Evans syndrome and 14 AIHA. Surgery approach when (1) platelets ≤ 50,000/ml despite 2 weeks on medical therapy, (2) medically dependent, and (3) medically intolerant or after two hemolytic crises in AIHA patients. Splenectomy response: (1) complete (CR): ≥ 150,000 platelets/ml, (2) partial: 50,000-149,000/ml, or (3) none: ≤ 50,000/ml. CR for AIHA: hemoglobin ≥9 g/dl. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: descriptive statistics and chi-square test. The mean age was 34.6 years; mean follow-up: 28.5 months. Open splenectomy in 15/34 vs laparoscopy in 19/34 (p = NS). CR in 15/34, G1: 4/18, G2: 11/16, (p = 0.006). Complications in 6/34, 5 from G2 vs 1 from G1 (p = 0.05). Relapse in 7/18 patients in G1 and 3/16 in G2 (p = 0.05). Open and laparoscopic splenectomies in SLE and AT patients are as effective as in those without SLE; however, patients with SLE and APS had more relapses.

Malnutrition is an independent risk factor for mortality in Mexican patients with systemic sclerosis: a cohort study.

Factors for mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc) vary in different cohorts around the world. Case-control study nested in a cohort. We included patients ≥16 years of age with SSc (ACR/EULAR 2013), from 2005 to 2015. Demographic and clinical variables and causes of mortality were recorded. We calculated Crude Mortality Rate (CMR), Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR), and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed. A Cox proportional hazard (HR) regression analysis of the potential risk factors associated with mortality was also performed. A total of 220 patients with SSc were included. During follow-up, 28 deaths occurred. The sum of total time contributed by all subjects was 1074 years-person, the CMR was 12.72%, the overall SMR was 4.5, in women 3.7, and in men 4.7. The survival rate at 5 and 10 years was 83 and 70%, respectively. The causes of death were definitively attributed to SSc in 21.4% of the cases, probably in 28.7%, unrelated in 35.6%, and unknown in 14.3%. The direct cause of death of the patients was infection in 25% of cases, cardiovascular disease in 14%, lung involvement in 14%, pulmonary embolism in 11%, and neoplasia in 11%. The Cox regression analysis showed that the factors associated with mortality were: male gender (HR 5.84, CI 95% 1.31-26, p = 0.013), severe Medsger's score for general symptoms (HR 5.12, CI 95% 1.74-14.97, p = 0.021) and severe malnutrition (HR 3.77, CI 95% 1.23-11.06, p = 0.008). Infections, cardiovascular disease, and lung involvement were the leading cause of death. Male gender and severe general affection and malnutrition were associated with a poorer prognosis of SSc.

Clinical, biochemical, and radiological characterization of the calcinosis in a cohort of Mexican patients with systemic sclerosis.

Calcinosis is a frequent complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc) that is usually located in extremities but may occur across the board. The aim of our study was to identify and quantify the distribution of calcinosis in a cohort of Mexican patients with SSc and its association with clinical features and autoantibodies. A cohort of patients with SSc (2013 ACR/EULAR criteria), classified in diffuse cutaneous (dcSSc) and limited cutaneous (lcSSc) (Le Roy criteria), was studied. For their analysis, patients were allocated into those with and without calcinosis (clinical and/or radiological). The evaluation included the modified Rodnan scale for skin and Medsger disease severity scale (DSS). Calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) and antinuclear antibodies and extractable nuclear antigens were determined in serum. A total of 109 patients were included, 41 (37 %) with and 68 (63 %) without calcinosis. Calcinosis was more frequent in patients with dcSSc (55 vs 27 %). In total, we identified 354 sites with calcinosis and mean per patient of 12.0 ± 9.1; the most common sites affected were the hands (83 %), proximal upper extremity (27 %), and proximal lower extremity (22 %). Patients with calcinosis had a higher score of Rodnan scale, Mesdger DSS, and frequency of anti-nucleolar and anti-Scl-70 antibodies compared to those without calcinosis. Abnormal PTH elevation was found in 35 % of patients with calcinosis and 23 % without it. The prevalence of calcinosis is high in Mexican patients with SSc, especially in diffuse variety, and is associated with increased severity of disease.

[Management of hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients]. / Manejo de la hiperglucemia en pacientes hospitalizados.

Diabetes is a global health problem and Mexico rank sixth in prevalence of this entity. In our country, is the leading cause of death and is a major cause of hospital care being responsible for about 1 in 5 discharges. In the hospital setting, it has been observed that hyperglycemia, both diabetic and non-diabetic patients, is associated with an increased risk of complications, disability and death, and that adequate control in the blood glucose level produces a reduction in these complications. With these bases, several associations have recommended the treatment of hospital hyperglycemia through insulin administration, with the therapeutic goal of maintaining a fasting blood glucose level between 100-140 mg/dL and glucose at any time of day less than 180 mg/dL. The insulin application method most recommended consisting in a basal-bolus regimen which has shown efficacy with a low risk of hypoglycemia. The usual practice of the application of insulin through a correction scheme should be abandoned because it is inefficient and involves risks.

La diabetes es un problema de salud mundial y México ocupa el sexto lugar en prevalencia de esta enfermedad. En nuestro país es la principal causa de muerte y una de las principales causas de atención hospitalaria, siendo responsable de aproximadamente 1 de cada 5 egresos. En el ámbito hospitalario, se ha observado que la hiperglucemia, tanto en pacientes diabéticos como en los no diabéticos, está asociada a un mayor riesgo de complicaciones, discapacidad y muerte, y que el control adecuado del nivel de glucosa sanguínea ayuda a reducir estas complicaciones. Por tal motivo, diversas asociaciones han recomendado el tratamiento de la hiperglucemia hospitalaria mediante la administración de insulina, con la meta terapéutica de mantener un nivel de glucosa sanguínea en ayuno entre 100 a 140 mg/dL, y una glucosa a cualquier hora del día menor a 180 mg/dL. El método de aplicación de insulina más recomendado consta de un régimen basal-bolo, el cual ha mostrado eficacia con un bajo riesgo de hipoglucemia. La práctica habitual de la aplicación de insulina mediante un esquema de corrección debe abandonarse ya que es ineficaz y conlleva riesgos.

Relationship of ghrelin, acid uric and proinflammatory adipocytokines in different degrees of obesity or diabetes.

We compared and examined factors associated with ghrelin and uric acid in obese subjects (OB), obese plus type 2 diabetes mellitus (OBDM) and healthy controls (C). Methods. We analyzed blood count, renal function, liver enzymes, lipids, resistin, leptin, IL-6, uric acid and ghrelin in OB, OBDM and C. We included 76 subjects with different body mass index (BMI): 36 C (24 ± 3), 11 OB<40 (30-39.9), 20 OB>40 (40-60), and 9 OBDM (45.9 ± 9). Results. Metabolic profile was as follows: HOMA-IR 4.7 ± 3 and 5 ± 3 vs 2 ± 1 (p < 0.01), resistin 8.7 ± 2 and 9.4 ± 2 vs 5.4 ± 2 ng/mL (p < 0.001), leptin 6.2 ± 3.9 and 5.3 ± 2 vs 3.6 ± 1.8 ng/mL (p = 0.001) and IL-6 197.5 ± 78.9 and 223.6 ± 115 vs 7.4 ± 8.3 pg/mL (p = 0.001) in OB and OBDM vs C, respectively. Ghrelin was higher in OB<40 compared to C (1780 ± 197 vs 1465 ± 12 pg/mL, p < 0.05), and lower in OBDM (987.4 ± 114 pg/mL, p < 0.05). BMI showed a positive correlation with resistin (p < 0.001); leptin (p = 0.004), IL-6 (p = 0.001), uric acid (p = 0.0005) and negative with ghrelin (r = -0.431, p = 0.028). Resistin was directly correlated with leptin (p < 0.001) and inversely correlated with renal function (p = 0.03). Conclusion. Severe obesity and obesity-associated diabetes affected ghrelin and uric acid levels. This may well be associated with proinflammatory adipocytokines, insulin resistance, liver enzymes or renal function.