Trypanosoma cruzi infection enhances olfactory response in Triatoma pallidipennis Stål (Hemiptera: Triatominae) to compounds potentially useful for insect control.

In Mexico, Triatoma pallidipennis is a major vector of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. Current efforts are focused on developing attractants to control these vectors, using volatile substances derived from vertebrate hosts or compounds known to attract hematophagous insects. However, the efficacy of these compounds in attracting parasite-infected triatomines remains to be evaluated. In this study, we assessed the attractant activity of octenol (1-octen-3-ol), nonanal and a mixture of odorants consisting of ammonium hydroxide, lactic acid and hexanoic acid (in a ratio of 1:0.2:0.4 respectively), at concentrations of 1, 10 and 100 ng on the N3, N4 and N5 nymphal stages of T. pallidipennis, both infected and non-infected with T. cruzi. We also evaluated the synergistic effect of the most effective compounds and doses. All experiments were performed in a laboratory using a Y-type glass olfactometer. We found that both infected and non-infected N3 and N4 nymphs were attracted to low doses of octenol, nonanal and the odorant mixture. Particularly noteworthy was the synergistic effect observed between the odorant mixture and nonanal, which significantly increased attraction of T. cruzi-infected individuals. These findings contribute to the development of baited traps utilising these compounds for monitoring triatomines in epidemiological studies or for mass trapping to control these vectors.

Regulación de la actividad enzimática de la NMNAT de Leishmania braziliensis por péptidos representativos de su extremo N-terminal / Regulation of the enzymatic activity of the NMNAT of Leishmania braziliensis by representative peptides derived from its N-terminus end / Regulação da atividade enzimática do NMNAT de Leishmania braziliensis por peptídeos representativos derivados de sua extremidade N-terminal

Resumen El parásito intracelular Leishmania braziliensis es el agente causal de la leishmaniasis cutánea, enfermedad endémica de zonas tropicales, cuyos tratamientos farmacológicos son tóxicos y para la cual no se dispone de una vacuna en la actualidad. Por esta razón, el estudio de las proteínas relacionadas con el metabolismo energético del parásito es relevante dada su importancia para la supervivencia del mismo. En este estudio, utilizando como secuencia plantilla los primeros 18 residuos del extremo N-terminal de la proteína nicotinamida/ nicotinato mononucleótido adenilil transferasa de L. braziliensis (Lb-NMNAT), se sintetizaron péptidos implementando la estrategia Fmoc/ tert-Butilo en una resina Rink amida MBHA. Los péptidos se purificaron por cromatografía en columna C18 y se caracterizaron mediante RP-HPLC. La proteína recombinante 6xHisLb-NMNAT se expresó en células Escherichia coli M15 y se purificó parcialmente empleando cromatografía de afinidad a metales inmovilizados. De esta proteína se confirmó su actividad enzimática a través de ensayos enzimáticos directos analizados por RP-HPLC. Los péptidos sintetizados se utilizaron para evaluar su efecto sobre la actividad enzimática de la proteína 6xHisLb-NMNAT, observándose una modulación diferencial, lo cual resulta promisorio para el diseño de herramientas quimioterapéuticas basadas en la secuencia N-terminal de la proteína Lb-NMNAT.

Abstract The intracellular parasite Leishmania braziliensis is the etiological agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis, an endemic disease in the tropics, whose pharmacological treatments are toxic and for which there is currently no vaccine. For this reason, the study of proteins related to the energy metabolism of the parasite is relevant given its importance for its survival. In this study, based on the first 18 residues of the N-terminal end of the nicotinamide/nicotinate mononucleotide adenylyl transferase protein from L. braziliensis (Lb-NMNAT) as a template, peptides were synthesized implementing the Fmoc/tert-Butyl strategy in a Rink amide MBHA resin. The peptides were purified by C18 column chromatography and characterized by RP-HPLC. The recombinant 6xHisLb-NMNAT protein was expressed in Escherichia coli M15 cells and partially purified using immobilized metal affinity chromatography. The enzymatic activity of the protein was confirmed through direct enzymatic assays analyzed by RP-HPLC. The synthesized peptides were used to evaluate their effect on the enzymatic activity of the 6xHisLb-NMNAT protein, observing a differential modulation, which is promising for the design of chemotherapeutic tools based on the N-terminal sequence of the Lb-NMNAT protein.

Resumo O parasita intracelular Leishmania braziliensis é o agente causador da leishmaniose tegumentar, doença endêmica nos trópicos, cujos tratamentos farmacológicos são tóxicos e para a qual não existe vacina atualmente. Por este motivo, o estudo de proteínas relacionadas ao metabolismo energético do parasita é relevante dada a sua importância para a sua sobrevivência. Neste estudo, usando os primeiros 18 resíduos da extremidade N-terminal da proteína adenilil transferase de nicotinamida/mononucleotídeo nicotinato de L. braziliensis (Lb-NMNAT) como uma sequência modelo, os peptídeos foram sintetizados implementando a estratégia Fmoc/tert-Butil em uma resina Rink amida MBHA. Os peptídeos foram purificados por cromatografia em coluna C18 e caracterizados por RP-HPLC. A proteína recombinante 6xHisLb-NMNAT foi expressa em células de Escherichia coli M15 e parcialmente purificada usando cromatografia de afinidade com metal imobilizado. Desta proteína, sua atividade enzimática foi confirmada por meio de ensaios enzimáticos diretos analisados por RP-HPLC. Os peptídeos sintetizados foram utilizados para avaliar seu efeito na atividade enzimática da proteína 6xHisLb-NMNAT, observando uma modulação diferencial, o que é promissor para o projeto de ferramentas quimioterápicas baseadas na sequência N-terminal da proteína Lb-NMNAT

Hasta que mi corazón ya no aguantó / Until my heart couldn't stand it anymore

Antecedentes: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son una de las primeras causas de muerte en la mujer en el mundo. La violencia contra la mujer es un problema de salud pública que tiene como consecuencia serios efectos en su salud. El desarrollo de enfermedades puede estar relacionado con el sexo, pero tambien con factores sociales, culturales, ambientales, como la violencia contra la mujer, que contribuyen al desarrollo de éstos y en especial del Síndrome Coronario Agudo. Objetivo: Identificar en sus discursos las causas a las que atribuyen las mujeres atendidas en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, el haber tenido uno o más episodios de Síndrome Coronario Agudo en su modalidad de Infarto Agudo de Miocardio. Metodología: El método empleado fue la fenomenología y el enfoque de género. Se llevó a cabo un análisis secundario de datos, de acuerdo al esquema propuesto por Miles y Huberman. Hallazgos y discusión: De las cinco mujeres seleccionadas, tres identificaron situaciones o causas previas al evento coronario. Las dos grandes categorías identificadas son "situaciones conflictivas previas al infarto" y "todo lo que traigo arrastrando" (los cautiverios de las mujeres). Conclusiones: Las causas o situaciones que tienen relación con el Infarto Agudo de Miocardio están vinculadas con la condición de género; se trata de situaciones o conflictos que tienen que ver con el papel que desempeñan como mujeres a través del cumplimiento de roles, estereotipos y exigencias socialmente impuestas. Las mujeres se esforzaban en atender a su familia, se sentían responsables de otras personas y de cumplir con éstas. El cuidado era dirigido hacia los demás tratando de cumplir con los papeles tradicionales de ser mujer.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death in women in the world. Violence against women is a public health problem that results in serious health effects. The development of diseases can be related to sex, but also to social, cultural, environmental factors, such as violence against women, which contribute to their development and especially Acute Coronary Syndrome. Objective: To identify in their speeches the causes attributed to women treated at the Ignacio Chavez National Institute of Cardiology, having had one or more episodes of Acute Coronary Syndrome in their modality of Acute Myocardial Infarction. Methodology: The method used was phenomenology and the gender approach. A secondary data analysis was carried out, according to the scheme proposed by Miles and Huberman. Findings and discussion: Of the five women selected, three identified situations or causes prior to the coronary event. The two main categories identified are "conflict situations prior to the infarction" and "everything that I carry with me" (women's captivity). Conclusions: The causes or situations that are related to Acute Myocardial Infarction are linked to the gender condition; these are situations or conflicts that have to do with the role they play as women through the fulfillment of socially imposed roles, stereotypes and demands. Women struggled to care for their family, felt responsible for other people and to comply with them. The care was directed towards others trying to fulfill the traditional roles of being a woman.

Características de las tutelas en salud tramitadas en Medellín, Colombia / Features of the protective actions related to health processed in Medellin, Colombia / Características das tutelas em saúde tramitadas em Medellín, Colômbia

Objetivo: describir las características de la vulneración del derecho a la salud, expresado en las acciones de tutela tramitadas en el municipio de Medellín (Colombia). Metodología: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo, en el que se analizaron las acciones de tutelas procesadas en la Dirección Seccional de Juzgados de Antioquia entre los años 2001 y 2007. Se realizó un muestreo aleatorio, estratificado por entidad demandada y año de los fallos de tutela. Resultados: el 79% de las personas que interpusieron acciones de tutela estaban afiliadas al régimen contributivo; de ellas, el 88% exigían atenciones en salud, medicamentos o insumos incluidos en el Plan Obligatorio de Salud. De los afiliados al régimen subsidiado, el 57% solicitaron atenciones y servicios incluidos en el plan de beneficios. El 62% de las personas solicitaron atención integral. Las enfermedades del sistema circulatorio y osteomuscular llevaron a un mayor número de personas a interponer la tutela (19% y 15% respectivamente). Conclusión: la mayoría de las personas, sin importar la afiliación al Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud, solicitan atenciones y servicios de salud incluidos en su plan de beneficios por medio de la acción de tutela.

Objective: to describe the health right infringement features, as reflected in the protective actions processed in the city of Medellin (Colombia). Methodology: retrospective descriptive study, in which the protective actions processed in the Antioquias sectional direction court during the years 2001-2007 were analyzed. A randomized sampling was taken, stratified by defendant entity and years of protective actions rulings. Results: 79% of the people who filed protective actions were affiliated to the contributive tax regime, 88% of them required health services, medicines, or medical supplies included in the Mandatory Health Plan. From the affiliates to the subsidy regimen 57% required attention and services included in the benefit plan. 62% of the people asked for integral attention. The circulatory and osteomuscular system diseases took a bigger number of people to file a protective action (19% and 15%) respectively. Conclusion: Most of the people regardless the type of affiliation to the General Social Security System, ask for health attention and services included in their benefit plan through the protective action.

Objetivo: descrever as características dá vulneração do direito à saúde, expressado nas ações de tutela tramitadas não município de Medellín (Colômbia). Metodologia: estudo descritivo retrospectivo, não que se analisaram as ação de tutelas processadas na Direção Seccional de Juízos de Antioquia durante vos ânus 2001 a 2007. Realizou-se uma amostragem aleatória, estratificado por entidade demandada e ânus dás falhas de tutela. Resultados: ou 79% das pessoas que interpuseram ação de tutela estavam afiliadas ao regime tributável; delas, ou 88% exigiam atendimentos em saúde, medicamentos ou insumos inclusos não Plano Obrigatório de Saúde. Dois afiliados ao regime subsidiado, ou 57% solicitaram atendimentos e serviços inclusos no plano de benefícios. Ou 62% das pessoas solicitaram atendimento integral. As doenças do sistema circulatório e osteomuscular levaram a um maior número de pessoas a interpor a tutela (19%e 15%), respectivamente. Conclusão: as maiorias de pessoas, sem importar a afiliação ao Sistema Geral de Segurança Social em Saúde, solicitam atendimentos e serviços de saúde inclusos em seu plano de benefícios por meio dá ação de tutela.

Cardiac pacing in balloon aortic valvuloplasty.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the rapid ventricular pacing in balloon aortic valvuloplasty to achieve balloon stability. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From September 2004 to July 2005, a prospective protocol was carried out: ten patients with aortic valve stenosis were treated with this method. Patient's age ranged from 3 to 16 years with mean age of 10.2+/-4.3 years. In all cases a bipolar pacing catheter was placed in the right ventricle. Rapid ventricular pacing was initiated at the rate of 150 per minute and was gradually increased to achieve a 50% drop in systemic pressure. The balloon was inflated only after the pacing rate was reached and the blood pressure dropped. Pacing was continued until the balloon was completely deflated. RESULTS: The systolic gradients across the aortic valve before balloon dilatation ranged from 40 to 110 mm Hg, mean 68.5+/-20 mm Hg. The pacing rate required to drop the pressure by 50% ranged from 170 to 250 per minute, mean 209+/-25. Balloon stability at time of inflation was achieved in all cases with no balloon movement. The post ballooning gradients ranged from 5 to 28 mm Hg, mean 19.7+/-8.3 mm Hg (p<0.001). In all cases there was no change in aortograms, performed before and after balloon dilatation in aorta, except in one patient who developed grade I aortic regurgitation. CONCLUSIONS: Rapid ventricular pacing appears to be an effective and a safe procedure to stabilize the balloon during balloon aortic valvuloplasty and is thought to decrease the incidence of aortic insufficiency.

Estabilización del balón mediante estimulación cardíaca en la valvuloplastía aórtica / Balloon stabilization by means of cardiac stimulation during aortic valvuloplasty

Objetivo: Evaluar la estimulación ventricular rápida en la Valvuloplastía Aórtica Percutánea como estrategia para obtener estabilidad del balón. Material y métodos: En septiembre de 2004 se inició un protocolo prospectivo. Tres enfermos masculinos consecutivos con estenosis valvular aórtica significativa fueron tratados con este método. Las edades fueron 13, 6 y 5 años. En todos se colocó un electrodo bipolar en el ventrículo derecho. Durante el procedimiento se registró la presión arterial sistémica con un catéter en la aorta descendente. La estimulación ventricular se inició a una frecuencia de 150 por minuto y se aumentó hasta obtener un descenso del 50% en la presión arterial sistémica y entonces el balón se infló para realizar la valvuloplastía aórtica. La estimulación se suspendió hasta que el balón fue completamente desinflado. Resultados: Los gradientes transvalvulares antes de la valvuloplastía fueron 90 y 110 mmHg. Las presiones en aorta fueron de 90, 110 y 55 mmHg. Se obtuvo una reducción del 50% de la presión sistémica con 170, 250 y 220 por minuto de estimulación. La duración de la estimulación rápida en los tres casos fue de 15 segundos. Se logró estabilización del balón sin movimientos en los dos casos. Los gradientes obtenidos después de la valvuloplastía fueron 23, 28 y 15 mmHg. No hubo modificación en el grado de insuficiencia aórtica después del procedimiento. En el primero se mantuvo grado I y en el segundo y tercer casos, no se observó regurgitación en el aortograma. Conclusiones: La estimulación cardíaca rápida estabiliza el balón durante la valvuloplastía, es segura, efectiva y puede disminuir la incidencia de insuficiencia aórtica.

Objective: To evaluate rapid ventricular pacing in balloon aortic valvuloplasty, an initial strategy to achieve balloon stability. Material and methods: From September to December 2004, a prospective protocol was started: three male consecutive patients with aortic valve stenosis were treated by this strategy. Age of the patients were 13, 6 and 5 years old. All had a bipoplar pacing catheter placed in the right ventricle. Invasive systemic pressures were documented with a catheter in the descending aorta. Rapid ventricular pacing was initiated at the rate of 150 per minute and increased to a rate required to achieve a drop in systemic pressure by 50%. The balloon was inflated only after the pacing rate was reached and the blood pressure dropped. Pacing was continued until the balloon was completely deflated. Results: The systolic gradients across the aortic valve before balloon dilatation were 90, 110 and 55 mmHg. The systolic pressures in aorta were 90 and 110 mmHg. The pacing rate to drop the pressure by 50% were 170, 250 and 220 per minute. The pacing time was 15 seconds in all patients. Balloon stability at time of inflation was achieved in all cases with no balloon movement. The post-ballooning gradients were 23, 28 and 15 mmHg. Angiogram performed post balloon dilatation showed no change compared with the pre-balloning angiogram in aorta: trivial aortic incompetence in the first case and none in the second and third cases. Conclusions: Rapid ventricular pacing to stabilise the balloon during balloon aortic valvuloplasty seems to be safe and effective and may decrease the incidence of aortic incompetence.

[Balloon stabilization by means of cardiac stimulation during aortic valvuloplasty]. / Estabilización del balón mediante estimulación cardíaca en la valvuloplastía aórtica.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate rapid ventricular pacing in balloon aortic valvuloplasty, an initial strategy to achieve balloon stability. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From September to December 2004, a prospective protocol was started: three male consecutive patients with aortic valve stenosis were treated by this strategy. Age of the patients were 13, 6 and 5 years old. All had a bipoplar pacing catheter placed in the right ventricle. Invasive systemic pressures were documented with a catheter in the descending aorta. Rapid ventricular pacing was initiated at the rate of 150 per minute and increased to a rate required to achieve a drop in systemic pressure by 50%. The balloon was inflated only after the pacing rate was reached and the blood pressure dropped. Pacing was continued until the balloon was completely deflated. RESULTS: The systolic gradients across the aortic valve before balloon dilatation were 90, 110 and 55 mmHg. The systolic pressures in aorta were 90 and 110 mmHg. The pacing rate to drop the pressure by 50% were 170, 250 and 220 per minute. The pacing time was 15 seconds in all patients. Balloon stability at time of inflation was achieved in all cases with no balloon movement. The post-ballooning gradients were 23, 28 and 15 mmHg. Angiogram performed post balloon dilatation showed no change compared with the pre-balloning angiogram in aorta: trivial aortic incompetence in the first case and none in the second and third cases. CONCLUSIONS: Rapid ventricular pacing to stabilise the balloon during balloon aortic valvuloplasty seems to be safe and effective and may decrease the incidence of aortic incompetence.

Síndrome de cimitarra asociado a atresia pulmonar con comunicación interventricular: Primer caso reportado / Scimitar syndrome associated to pulmonary atresia with interventricular communication: First reported case

Se presenta el caso de un masculino de 15 meses de edad con síndrome de cimitarra y atresia pulmonar con comunicación interventricular. El diagnóstico se hizo mediante cateterismo cardíaco y angiocardiografía y confirmado por el estudio de autopsia. Se hacen las consideraciones clínicas y quirúrgicas de esta excepcional asociación que a la fecha es, hasta donde sabemos la primera reportada en la literatura.

We present the case of a 15 months-old male with Scimitar Syndrome associated with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary atresia. The diagnosis was made by cardiac catheterization and angiography and was confirmed by the necropsy. Clinical and surgical considerations of this exceptional association were made. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case reported in the relevant literature.

[Congenital percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty in 70 subjects with congenital aortic stenosis, mid-term results]. / Valvuloplastia aórtica percutánea en 70 enfermos con estenosis valvular aórtica congénita. Resultados a mediano plazo.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate mid-term results with Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty (PAV). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Records of 70 patients treated with percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty with at least 6 months follow-up were reviewed. RESULTS: The 70 patients with PAV aged 3 months to 36 years, mean 10.5 +/- 10.6 years, 40) 63%) were male and 26 (37%) female. Initial systolic peak gradient decreased from 84 +/-20 to 31 +/- 16 mmHg (p < 0.05), while the reduction percentage ranged from 25 to 100%, mean 60 +/- 22. Balloon/aortic annulus index was 0.9 +/- 0.17. Ten (14.1 %) patients developed aortic insufficiency after PAV. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 168 months, mean +/- 48 months. At end of follow-up, 21 patients (30%) were considered failed cases and 49 (70%) patients had a successful outcome. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a series with the longest follow-up in Latin America with PAV. New prospective and multicentric studies are needed in this region.

Valvuloplastia aórtica percutánea en 70 enfermos con estenosis valvular aórtica congénita: Resultados a mediano plazo / Congenital Percutaneous Aortic Valvuloplasty in 70 Subjects with Congenital Aortic Stenosis: Mid-Term Results

Objetivo: evaluar los resultados a mediano plazo de la VAP. Material y métodos: se analizaron los enfermos con estenosis valvular aórtica congénita con VAP de 1988 al 2001 que tuvieran por lo menos seis meses de seguimiento. Resultados: fueron sometidos a VAP 70 enfermos. Cuarenta del sexo masculino (63%) y 26 del femenino (37%). Margen de edad de tres meses a 36 años, media de 10.5 ± 10.6 años. El gradiente sistólico pico-pico disminuyó de 84 ±20 a 31 ± 16 mmHg (P<0.01). El porcentaje de reducción varió de 25 a 100%, media 60 ± 22%. El índice balón/anillo aórtico fue de 0.9'±0.17. Después del procedimiento la insuficiencia aórtica grado III o IV se presentó en 10 (14.2%). El seguimiento varió de 6 a 168 meses, media 51 ± 48 meses. Al final del seguimiento hubo: fracasos 21 enfermos (30%) y éxitos 49 (70%) pacientes. Un enfermo murió tardíamente (1.4%). Conclusiones: este trabajo es la serie con seguimiento más largo después de VAP en latinoamérica. Se requieren nuevos estudios prospectivos y multicéntricos en la región.

Objective: To evaluate mid-term results with Percutaneous aortic valvulopasty (PAV). Material and Methods: Records of 70 patients treated with percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty with at least 6 months follow-up were reviewed. Results: The 70 patients with PA Vaged 3 months to 36years, mean 10.5 ± 10.6 years, 40) 63%) were male and 26 (37%) female. Initial systolic peak gradient decreased from 84 ± 20 to 31 ± 16 mmHg (p < 0.05), while the reduction percentage ranged from 25 to 100%, mean 60 ± 22. Balloon/aortic annulus index was 0.9 ±0.17. Ten (14.1 %) patients developed aortic insufficiency after PA V. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 168 months, mean ± 48 months. At end of follow-up, 21 patients (30%) were considered failed cases and 49 (70%) patients had a successful outcome. Conclusions: This study showed a series with the longest follow-up in latin America with PA V. New prospective and multicentric studies are needed in this region.

[Scimitar syndrome associated to pulmonary atresia with interventricular communication. First reported case]. / Síndrome de cimitarra asociado a atresia pulmonar con comunicación interventricular. Primer caso reportado.

We present the case of a 15 months-old male with Scimitar Syndrome associated with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary atresia. The diagnosis was made by cardiac catheterization and angiography and was confirmed by the necropsy. Clinical and surgical considerations of this exceptional association were made. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case reported in the relevant literature.

Control de riesgos de los trabajadores durante el proceso de desinfección del antiguo Hospital Regional de Veraguas, mayo 2003 a diciembre 2004 / Control of risks of the workers during the process of desinfection of the old Hospital Regional de Veraguas, mayo 2003 to december 2004

Durante el Proceso de desinfección de las antiguas instalaciones del Hospital Provincial que sirvió a Veraguas desde 1932 hasta 1999, se realizará un estudio cuasiexperimental con los once trabajadores de mantenimiento y los nueve de Control de Vectores, que realizaron dicho proceso. Se aplica la Metodología de Gestión de Riesgos que presenta el Instituto de Seguridad e Higiene de España, para lograr identificar los peligros, estimar y valorar los riesgos que nos ayuden a formular un plan de control, el cual nos permite evitar accidentes laborales. Se identifica que el grupo de control de vectores ha tenido experiencias en uso de equipos y medidas de protección para evitar accidentes y enfermedades profesionales; el grupo de mantenimiento, no ha tenido mayores capacitaciones en estos aspectos. El plan establece acciones como: capacitación a los trabajadores en Seguridad Laboral, provisión a los trabajadores de equipos de protección individuales, toma de decisiones sobre alternativas por definir, medidas administrativas (reducción de horas de trabajo, acondicionamiento de área de baños, garantizar la hidratación, otros). El resultado de la ejecución de este Plan logró que no se presentara ningún incidente laboral durante este proceso, a pesar de los altos riesgos ergonómicos, físicos, biológicos y químicos a los que se sometieron a los trabajadores. Se encontró que variables tales como el fumar y la escolaridad no presentan relación con las molestias encontradas; pero la antigüedad, los riesgos ergonómicos y la valoración de los riesgos, sí se asocian con las molestias entre los trabajadores. Los trabajadores de mantenimiento, tuvieron mayor tiempo de exposición y menores capacitaciones sobre seguridad laboral, por lo que 72 (por ciento) padeció molestias, principalmente respiratorias y lumbalgias; mientras que en el grupo de control de vectores sólo 22 (por ciento) de sus miembros presenta molestias dentro de las cuales destacan las lumbalgias.

Intraluminal aortoplasty vs. surgical aortic resection in congenital aortic coarctation. A clinical random study in pediatric patients.

BACKGROUND: Our objective was to compare results of two therapeutic modalities to treat congenital aortic coarctation: intraluminal aortoplasty without endoluminal stent installation (patients in group A) vs. surgical aortic resection (patients in group B). Trans-coarctation gradient pressure was evaluated prior to and immediately after treatment. Re-coarctation, aneurysm formation, in-hospital morbidity and mortality, and complications related to treatment were also evaluated. METHODS: A clinical, randomized, multicenter study was performed in pediatric patients with congenital aortic coarctation. Immediate and mid- to late therapeutic results were evaluated. With regard to statistics, we evaluated event variations by Kaplan-Meier model, nonparametric Wilcoxon test, Mann-Whitney U test, two-tailed Student t and chi-square tests, and Fisher analysis. Significance was considered relevant when p<0.05. RESULTS: There were no differences in demographic variables, procedure failure, complications, mortality, or aortic aneurysm between groups A and B, respectively. Intraluminal angioplasty and surgical aortic resection were similarly effective in reducing trans-coarctation pressure gradient, as well as arterial systemic pressure. However, differences were found between groups A and B at follow-up. Group A showed higher re-coarctation (50 vs. 21%). Absence of peripheral arterial pulses in limbs was higher in group A (50 vs. 21%), as well as persistence of arterial hypertension (49 vs. 19%); these differences were significant (p<0.05). On the other hand, complications observed after surgical aortic resection were more serious than post-angioplasty complications, but these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Although re-coarctation and persistency of arterial hypertension were less frequent after surgical aortic resection, complications observed with this procedure are more serious than complications related to angioplasty, although these differences are not statistically significant.

Tricuspid atresia associated with common arterial trunk and 22q11 chromosome deletion.

The case of a four-months old male with coexistent tricuspid atresia and common arterial trunk is presented. The diagnosis was made by cardiac catheterization and selective angiocardiography. Clinical considerations are discussed and the review of the available literature reveals this patient to be the tenth case reported of this very unusual association of cardiovascular defects, and the first with positive deletion of the 22q11 chromosome.

Percutaneous aortic valvoplasty in congenital aortic valvar stenosis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate immediate and midterm results with percutaneous aortic valvoplasty. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We reviewed the records of 141 patients undergoing percutaneous aortic valvopasty over a period of 13 years. RESULTS: The patients were aged from 2 months to 40 years, with a mean of 10.9 +/- 9.9 years. Of the total, 90 (63+/%) were male. The initial systolic peak-to-peak gradient decreased from 163 +/- 52 mmHg to 32 +/- 18 mmHg (p < 0.01) after valvoplasty in all 141 patients, while the proportional reduction ranged from 0 to 100%, with a mean of 72 +/- 27%. The index of the size of the balloon to the diameter of the valvar orifice was 0.88 +/- 0.19 in 128 patients. The follow-up ranged from 6 to 168 months, with a mean 51 +/- 48 months in 70 patients. A significant difference was found in those failing after dilation when the initial evaluation was compared to the final evaluation of patients with follow-up. In those failing, the number of patients rose from 12 (17%) to 21 (30%) (p < 0.01). In contrast, in those in whom we achieved success, there was not such a great difference between the initial and final evaluation: 58 (83%) versus 49 (70%) (p < 0.1). The actuarial freedom curve of patients not needing new percutaneous aortic valvoplasty or surgery, by 182 months, was at 87% and 82% respectively. CONCLUSION: We have reviewed the largest series of patients in Latin-America reported thus far after undergoing percutaneous aortic valvoplasty, concentrating on mid term follow-up and limitations. New prospective and multicentric studies are needed from our region.

Types of obstructions in double-chambered right ventricle: mid-term results.

BACKGROUND: The double-chambered right ventricle (DCRV) is increasingly recognized as a distinct obstruction entity. The nature of the obstruction is not well defined. METHODS: Patients with DCRV were prospectively studied during the last 4 years according to the following criteria: 1) pressure gradient by echo Doppler and cardiac catheterization within the right ventricle; 2) angiographic demonstration, and 3) surgical confirmation. RESULTS: From March 1997 to March 2001, 10 new cases were included. Age ranged from 2 to 14 years (mean 9.5 +/- 4.4 years), weight ranged from 9.9 to 75 kg (mean 23 +/- 13.6 kg), and height from 0.85 to 1.48 m (mean 114 +/- 19 cm). Systolic gradient by echo Doppler ranged from 20 to 135 mmHg (mean 86 +/- 44 mmHg) and by cardiac catheterization, 18 to 130 mmHg (mean 78 +/- 35 mmHg). In terms of angiographic findings, in six patients the right ventriculogram showed an oblique and low obstruction; in four patients the obstruction was high and horizontal. With regard to surgical findings, angiographic findings were confirmed by the surgeon except in one patient, in whom both types of obstruction were present. No mortality was observed. With follow-up 4 to 40 months after surgery (mean 24 +/- 15 months), 8 of 10 patients were evaluated; all corresponded to class I NYHA. Systolic gradient by echo Doppler ranged from 0 to 11 mmHg (mean 4 +/- 6 mmHg). CONCLUSIONS: DCRV IS PRODUCED BY THE FOLLOWING THREE TYPES OF MUSCULAR OBSTRUCTIONS: low and oblique obstruction; high and horizontal obstruction, and mixed obstruction. Mid-term surgical results are satisfactory.

Estenosis mitral congénita: experiencia 1991-2001 / Congenital mitral stenosis 1991-2001 experience

Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en estenosis mitral congénita en 10 años. Material y métodos: Se revisaron los casos de enero 1991-2001. Los sobrevivientes fueron evaluados mediante ecocardiografía. Resultados: Fueron 16 enfermos con media de 3 ñ 3.08 (0 a 10 años). Tipos de obstrucciones: fusión de comisuras y cuerdas tendinosas (45 por ciento), válvula mitral en paracaídas 37 por ciento, anillo supravalvular mitral uno, fusión directa de los músculos papilares a las valvas uno y doble orificio mitral otro. Datos hemodinámicos (en mmHg): presión en cuña 18.4 ñ 4, arteria pulmonar sistólica 61 ñ 21, diastólica 34 ñ 15 y media 47 ñ 18, gradiente transmitral (GTM) 12.9 ñ 7.3 y URP 5.5 ñ 3.8. Cuatro enfermos recibieron tratamiento médico. Resultados quirúrgicos. Reparación mitral en 6 enfermos. Implante de prótesis mitral en 4 enfermos (2 con reparación previa). La mortalidad global fue de 2 (12.5 por ciento). El seguimiento global fue de 3.5 ñ 3 años. Cuando se comparó el GTM antes, 22.6 ñ 11.5 y después, 4.75 ñ 1.5 de reparación mitral o implantación de prótesis (12 ñ 2.3 vs 6 ñ 1.15), la diferencia fue significativa P < 0.05. Conclusiones: La mayoría de los enfermos son susceptibles de reparación mitral. A mediano plazo un tercio de éstos requerirá prótesis.

Discordancia atrioventricular: experiencia clínico-quirúrgica 1990-2000 / Atrioventricular discordance: then years experience

Objetivo: Conocer la frecuencia de las conexiones ventriculoarteriales combinadas con la discordancia atrioventricularial, las lesiones asociadas y los resultados quirúrgicos, incluyendo el primer caso con corrección anatómica. Material y métodos: Se analizaron todos los enfermos con discordancia atrioventricular por ecocardiografía de 1990 a marzo de 2000. Resultados: Se encontraron 36 enfermos con discordancia atrioventricular. El rango de edad 0.1 a 47 años, media 9.2. El situs atrial fue solitus en 88.9 por ciento, inversus en 11.1 por ciento. Las conexiones ventriculoarteriales fueron discordantes en 28 (77.7 por ciento); había doble vía de salida ventricular derecha en 4 (11.1 por ciento) (uno con corazón en "crisis cross"), salida única por atresia pulmonar en 4 (11.1 por ciento) y doble salida del ventrículo izquierdo en 1 (2.7 por ciento). Lesiones asociadas; comunicación interventricular con estenosis o atresia pulmonar en 21 (58 por ciento), comunicación interventricular sin obstrucción pulmonar en 10 (28 por ciento). Cinco tuvieron regurgitación tricuspídea, dos de ellos adultos. Resultados quirúrgicos: En 22 (61 por ciento) enfermos se hicieron 28 procedimientos quirúrgicos; 8 (36 por ciento) fueron paliativos y 19 (86 por ciento) correctivos, uno de éstos fue la primera corrección anatómica. La mortalidad operatoria global fue del 40.1 por ciento. Conclusiones: La disfunción ventricular derecha no es rara. Los resultados quirúrgicos revelan elevada mortalidad y la necesidad de marcapaso por bloqueo auriculoventricular posoperatorio.