Social determinants of blood pressure control in a middle-income country in Latin America.

Blood pressure (BP) control is a key intervention to decrease cardiovascular diseases (CVD), the main cause of death in low and middle-income countries (MIC). Scarce data on the determinants of BP control in Latin America are available. Our objective is to explore the role of gender, age, education, and income as social determinants of BP control in Argentina, a MIC with a universal health care system. We evaluated 1184 persons in two hospitals. Blood pressure was measured using automatic oscillometric devices. We selected those patients treated for hypertension. The average BP of less than 140/90 mmHg was considered a controlled BP. We found 638 hypertensive individuals, of whom 477 (75%) were receiving antihypertensive drugs, and of those, 248 (52%) had controlled BP. The prevalence of low education was more frequent in uncontrolled patients (25.3% vs. 16.1%; P < .01). We did not find association between household income, gender, and BP control. Older patients had less BP control (44% of those older than 75 years vs. 60.9% of those younger than 40; test for trend P < .05). Multivariate regression indicates low education (OR 1.71 95% CI [1.05, 2.79]; P = .03) and older age (OR 1.01; 95% IC [1.00, 1.03]) as independent predictors of the lack of BP control. We conclude that rates of BP control are low in Argentina. In a MIC with a universal health care system low education and old age but not household income are independent predictors of the lack of BP control.

Decreased low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 expression in pro-inflammatory monocytes is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis.

Subclinical atherosclerosis (SCA) occurs in asymptomatic individuals. Blood peripheral monocytes are involved in the development of atherosclerosis. Circulating monocytes acquire pro-inflammatory profiles, and they are involved in the early stages of atherosclerosis development. Low-density lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein 1 (LRP1) is expressed in monocytes, mainly in classical and intermediate subsets. Although LRP1 is highly expressed in macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in atherosclerotic plaque formation, its expression in circulating monocytes has not been studied in SCA. The aim of this study was to characterize the LRP1 expression level in circulating monocytes of individuals with SCA and compared with individuals with low (LR) and intermediate (IR) risk of cardiovascular diseases, both without evidence of atherosclerotic lesions in carotid and coronary arteries. LRP1 and additional markers (CD11b, CD11c, and CD36) at cell surface of monocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry assays, whereas LRP1 and pro-inflammatory factors gene expressions were measured in isolated monocytes by quantitative RT-PCRs. Both LRP1 protein and LRP1 mRNA were significantly reduced in monocytes in SCA and IR respect to LR. Conversely, CD36, CD11b, and CD11c monocytic markers showed no significant changes between the different study groups. Finally, increased gene expressions of TNF-α and IL-1ß were detected in monocytes of SCA, which were associated with decreased LRP1 expression at the cell surface in total monocytes. In summary, we propose that the decreased LRP1 expression at cell surface in total monocytes with pro-inflammatory profile is associated with the development of atherosclerosis in asymptomatic individuals.

The incidence, risk factors and impact of acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients due to COVID-19.

The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 is variable, being associated with worse outcomes. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the incidence, risk factors (considering demographic characteristics, comorbidities, initial clinical presentation and associated complications) and impact of AKI in subjects hospitalized for COVID-19 in two third-level hospitals in Córdoba, Argentina. A retrospective cohort study was conducted. We included 448 adults who were consecutively hospitalized for COVID-19 between March 3 and October 31, 2020 and were followed throughout the hospitalization. The incidence of AKI was 19% (n = 85; stage I = 43, stage II = 17, and stage III = 25, 18 required renal replacement therapy). In the multivariate analysis, the variables that were independently associated with AKI were: age (for every 10 years, adjusted odd ratio [95%CI] = 1.30 [1.04-1.63], p = 0.022), history of chronic kidney disease -CKD- (9.92 [4.52-21.77], p < 0.001), blood neutrophil count at admission -BNCA- (for every increase of 1000 BNCA, 1.09 [1.01-1.18], p = 0.037) and requirement for mechanical ventilation -MV- (6.69 [2.24-19.90], p = 0.001). AKI was associated with longer hospitalization, higher admission (63.5 vs. 29.7%; p < 0.001) and longer stay in the intensive care unit, a positive association with respiratory bacterial superinfection, sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome, MV requirement and mortality (mortality without AK I = 12.4% vs with AKI = 47.1%; stage I = 26%, stage II = 41% and stage III = 88%; p < 0.001). AKI was independently associated with higher mortality (3.32 [1.6-6.9], p = 0.001). In conclusion, the incidence of AKI in adults hospitalized for COVID-19 was 19% and had a clear impact on morbidity and mortality. The independent risk factors for AKI were: Age, CKD, BNCA and MV.

Los objetivos del estudio fueron evaluar la incidencia, los factores de riesgo (considerando características demográficas, comorbilidades, presentación clínica inicial y complicaciones asociadas) y el impacto de la lesión renal aguda ­LRA­ en sujetos hospitalizados por COVID-19 en dos instituciones de alta complejidad de Córdoba, Argentina. Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo. Se incluyeron 448 adultos que fueron hospitalizados por COVID-19 entre el 3 de marzo y el 31 de octubre del 2020 con seguimiento durante toda la hospitalización. La incidencia de LRA fue 19% (estadio I = 43, estadio II = 17 y estadío III = 25, 18 requirieron diálisis). Las variables que se asociaron de manera independiente con el LRA fueron: edad (por cada 10 años, odd ratio ajustado [IC95%] = 1.30 [1.04-1.63], p = 0.022), enfermedad renal crónica ­ERC­ (9.92 [4.52-21.77], p < 0.001), recuento de neutrófilos sanguíneos al ingreso ­NSI­ (por cada incremento de 1000 NSI, 1.09 [1.01­1.18], p = 0.037) y asistencia respiratoria mecánica ­ARM­ (6.69 [2.24­19.90], p = 0.001). Los sujetos con LRA presentaron una internación más prolongada, mayor requerimiento (63.5 vs. 29.7%; p < 0.001) y estadía más prolongada en unidad de cuidados intensivos, una asociación positiva con sobreinfección respiratoria bacteriana, sepsis, síndrome de distrés respiratorio, requerimiento de ARM y mortalidad (mortalidad sin LRA 12.4% vs. con LRA 47.1%; estadio I = 26%, estadio II = 41% y estadio III = 88%; p < 0.001). LRA se asoció de manera independiente a mayor mortalidad (3.3 [1.6­6.9], p = 0.001). En conclusión, la incidencia de LRA en adultos hospitalizados por COVID-19 fue del 19% y tuvo un claro impacto en la morbi-mortalidad. Los factores de riesgo independientes de LRA fueron: edad, ERC, NSI y ARM.

Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 infection in two hospitals in Córdoba. / [Características clínicas y epidemiológicas de pacientes hospitalizados por infección por SARS-CoV-2 en dos hospitales en Córdoba.]

Introduction: COVID-19 disease shows a marked heterogeneity in its clinical course, with descriptions of some factors associated with a worse prognosis. Knowledge of the disease behavior in the local scenario is relevant to allow a better approach. Methods: Retrospective study in two hospitals in the city of Córdoba, Argentina, with patients aged 18 years or more, hospitalized for active SARS-CoV-2 infection, from March to October, 2020. Results: 448 patients were included, of which 95.75% corresponded to COVID-19 pneumonia. Most of the episodes occurred in men (63.6%), the median age was 63 years (IQR: 53-75), and the most frequent comorbidities were arterial hypertension (55.1%), obesity (31.7%) and diabetes mellitus (28.1%). 162 patients (36.2%) needed admission to the intensive care unit and 66 (14.7%) were placed on mechanical ventilation. 67 patients (15%) died within the first 30 days of follow-up. In the multivariate analysis, the only independent variable predictive of mortality at 30 days was age (adjusted Odds ratio [aOR] = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04-1.11, p <0.001). The 4C-Score and CALL-Score prognostic scores showed good discrimination (Area under the curve [AUC] = 0.766, 95% CI = 0.72-0.80 and AUC = 0.785, 95% CI = 0.70-0.85 respectively) and the predicted percentages of mortality were quite close to what was observed in the present study. Conclusions: Most of the patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection presented comorbidities and were admitted with pneumonia, associated with high mortality. The prognostic scores with the best performance to predict complications were the 4C-score and the CALL-score.

Introducción: La enfermedad COVID-19 muestra una marcada heterogeneidad en su curso clínico, habiéndose descripto algunos factores que se asocian un peor pronóstico. El conocimiento del comportamiento de la enfermedad en el escenario local es de gran relevancia para permitir un mejor abordaje. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo en dos hospitales de la ciudad de Córdoba, Argentina, de pacientes de 18 años o más hospitalizados por infección activa por SARS-CoV-2, desde marzo a octubre del año 2020. Resultados: Se incluyeron 448 pacientes, de los cuales el 95.75% correspondieron a neumonía COVID-19. La mayoría de los episodios ocurrieron en hombres (63.6%), la mediana de edad fue 63 años (RIC:53-75), y las comorbilidades más frecuentes fueron hipertensión arterial (55.1%), obesidad (31.7%) y diabetes mellitus (28.1%). Requirieron ingreso a unidad de cuidados intensivos 162 pacientes (36.2%) y 66 (14.7%), asistencia respiratoria mecánica. Fallecieron 67 pacientes (15%) dentro de los primeros 30 días de seguimiento. En el análisis multivariado la única variable independiente predictora de mortalidad a los 30 días fue la edad (Odds ratio ajustado [ORa]=1.08, IC95%=1.04-1.11, p<0.001). Los scores pronósticos 4C-Score y CALL-Score presentaron muy buena discriminación (Área bajo la curva [ABC]=0.766, IC95%=0.72-0.80 y ABC=0.785, IC95%=0.70-0.85, respectivamente) y los porcentajes predichos de mortalidad se aproximaron bastante a lo observado en el presente estudio. Conclusiones: La mayoría de los pacientes hospitalizados por infección por SARS-CoV-2 presentaban comorbilidades y se presentaron como neumonía, asociada a una elevada mortalidad. Los scores pronósticos con mejor rendimiento para predecir complicaciones fueron el 4C-Score y el CALL score.

The incidence, risk factors and impact of acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients due to COVID-19 / Incidencia, factores de riesgo e impacto de la lesión renal aguda en pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19

Abstract The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 is variable, being associated with worse outcomes. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the incidence, risk factors (considering demographic characteristics, comorbidities, initial clinical presentation and associated complications) and impact of AKI in subjects hospitalized for COVID-19 in two third-level hospitals in Córdoba, Argentina. A retrospective cohort study was conducted. We included 448 adults who were consecutively hospitalized for CO VID-19 between March 3 and October 31, 2020 and were followed throughout the hospitalization. The incidence of AKI was 19% (n = 85; stage I = 43, stage II = 17, and stage III = 25, 18 required renal replacement therapy). In the multivariate analysis, the variables that were independently associated with AKI were: age (for every 10 years, adjusted odd ratio [95%CI] = 1.30 [1.04-1.63], p = 0.022), history of chronic kidney disease -CKD- (9.92 [4.52-21.77], p < 0.001), blood neutrophil count at admission -BNCA- (for every increase of 1000 BNCA, 1.09 [1.01-1.18], p = 0.037) and requirement for mechanical ventilation -MV- (6.69 [2.24-19.90], p = 0.001). AKI was associated with longer hospitalization, higher admission (63.5 vs. 29.7%; p < 0.001) and longer stay in the intensive care unit, a positive association with respiratory bacterial superinfection, sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome, MV requirement and mortality (mortality without AK I = 12.4% vs with AKI = 47.1%; stage I = 26%, stage II = 41% and stage III = 88%; p < 0.001). AKI was independently associated with higher mortality (3.32 [1.6-6.9], p = 0.001). In conclusion, the incidence of AKI in adults hospitalized for COVID-19 was 19% and had a clear impact on morbidity and mortality. The independent risk factors for AKI were: Age, CKD, BNCA and MV.

Resumen Los objetivos del estudio fueron evaluar la incidencia, los factores de riesgo (consi derando características demográficas, comorbilidades, presentación clínica inicial y complicaciones asociadas) y el impacto de la lesión renal aguda -LRA- en sujetos hospitalizados por COVID-19 en dos instituciones de alta complejidad de Córdoba, Argentina. Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo. Se incluyeron 448 adul tos que fueron hospitalizados por COVID-19 entre el 3 de marzo y el 31 de octubre del 2020 con seguimiento durante toda la hospitalización. La incidencia de LRA fue 19% (estadio I = 43, estadio II = 17 y estadío III = 25, 18 requirieron diálisis). Las variables que se asociaron de manera independiente con el LRA fueron: edad (por cada 10 años, odd ratio ajustado [IC95%] = 1.30 [1.04-1.63], p = 0.022), enfermedad renal crónica -ERC- (9.92 [4.52-21.77], p < 0.001), recuento de neutrófilos sanguíneos al ingreso -NSI- (por cada incremento de 1000 NSI, 1.09 [1.01-1.18], p = 0.037) y asistencia respiratoria mecánica -ARM- (6.69 [2.24-19.90], p = 0.001). Los sujetos con LRA presentaron una internación más prolongada, mayor requerimiento (63.5 vs. 29.7%; p < 0.001) y estadía más prolongada en unidad de cuidados intensivos, una asociación positiva con sobreinfección respi ratoria bacteriana, sepsis, síndrome de distrés respiratorio, requerimiento de ARM y mortalidad (mortalidad sin LRA 12.4% vs. con LRA 47.1%; estadio I = 26%, estadio II = 41% y estadio III = 88%; p < 0.001). LRA se asoció de manera independiente a mayor mortalidad (3.3 [1.6-6.9], p = 0.001). En conclusión, la incidencia de LRA en adultos hospitalizados por COVID-19 fue del 19% y tuvo un claro impacto en la morbi-mortalidad. Los factores de riesgo independientes de LRA fueron: edad, ERC, NSI y ARM.

Perioperative protocol to reduce blood transfusions in total knee o hip replacement patients / [Implementación de protocolo perioperatorio para disminuir tasa de transfusiones en pacientes sometidos a reemplazo total de cadera o rodilla primarios]

Introduction: Patient Blood Management (PBM) programs improve patient care and reduce health costs. It includes detection of presurgical anemia, reduction of blood loss and improvement of patient-specific anemic reserve. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of a PBM program on transfusion rate, length of stay (LOS) and adverse events. Methods: We developed a retrospective observational study. We included patients who underwent total hip (THR) o knee replacement (TKR). Our PBM involved preoperative assessment, administration of 2 doses of tranexamic acid, application of restrictive transfusion criteria and use of IV iron. We compared results between the group of patients before and the one after the PBM implementation. Results: We included 179 patients (80 TKR and 99 THR) who underwent surgery before PBM implementation from January to December 2014 (Group A), and 187 patients (103 TKR and 84 THR) who underwent arthroplasty after PBM application from January to November 2016 (Group B). In Group A, hemoglobin drop was larger than in Group B, for TKR (5.1±1.2 vs. 4.2±1.2 g/dl; p<0,05) and for THR (4.7±1.3 vs. 3.8±1.3 g/dl; p<0,05). In group A, more patients were transfused (31.8% vs. 2.7%; p<0.001). LOS was longer for patients in group A, in both surgeries (for TKA, 3.98±1.4days vs. 2.99±0.95 days; p<0.0001; for THA 3.68±1.06days vs. 2.88±0.75days; p<0.0001). No significant differences were found regarding adverse events. Conclusion: Our PBM program saved transfusions after primary TKR and THR and lowered LOS, without risking patients to higher number of complications or death.

Introducción: Los protocolos de manejo de anemia perioperatoria mejoran el cuidado del paciente y disminuyen los costos en salud. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar el efecto de dicho programa en pacientes sometidos a reemplazo total de cadera (RTC) o rodilla (RTR), en la tasa de transfusiones, tiempo de estadía hospitalaria y eventos adversos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo, incluyendo pacientes sometidos a RTC o RTR primarios. El programa abarcó la valoración preoperatoria, el uso de 2 dosis de ácido tranexámico, la aplicación de transfusiones restringidas, y el uso de hierro suplementario. Se compararon los resultados entre pacientes pre y post implementación del protocolo. Resultados: Se incluyeron 179 pacientes (80 RTR y 99 RTC) pre protocolo entre enero y diciembre 2014 (grupo A) y 187 casos (103 RTR y 84 RTC) post protocolo entre enero y noviembre 2016 (grupo B). En el grupo A, la caida de hemoglobina fue mayor que en el grupo B en RTR (5,1±1,2 vs. 4,2±1,2 g/dl; p<0,05) y en RTC (4,7±1.3 vs. 3,8±1.3 g/dl; p<0,05). Hubo mayor requerimiento transfusional en el grupo A (31,8% vs. 2,7%; p<0,001). El tiempo de estadía hospitalaria (TEH) fue mayor en el grupo A para ambas cirugías (en RTR 3,98±1,4días vs. 2,99±0,95 días; p<0,0001; en RTC 3,68±1,06días vs. 2,88±0,75días; p<0,0001). No se encontraron diferencias significativas respecto a eventos adversos. Conclusión: En ambas artroplastias, nuestro programa disminuyó la cantidad de transfusiones, la caída de hemoglobina y la estadía hospitalaria, sin aumentar el número de complicaciones.

Rendimiento de ecuaciones para predecir riesgo cardiovascular en una población de Argentina / Performance of equations to predict cardiovascular risk in an Argentine population

Resumen El rendimiento de las ecuaciones existentes de predicción de riesgo cardiovascular (RCV) en población argentina es desconocido. Se comparó RCV estimado por dichas ecuaciones, con la ocurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares (ECV) en una población de pacientes sin enfermedad cardiovascular de un hospital argentino. Se incluyeron aleatoriamente adultos entre 40 y 70 años, excluyéndose quienes al momento del enrolamiento presentaban historia de ECV mayor, cáncer activo, o tratamiento hipolipemiante. Se calculó RCV a 10 años al momento de inclusión, utilizando ecuaciones de Framingham 2008, SCORE (para poblaciones de bajo y alto riesgo), ATP III, Organización mundial de la saludregión América B (OMS-B) y Ecuación de Cohorte Agrupada (ECA). El fin de seguimiento fue 10 años ± 6 meses, ocurrencia de infarto de miocardio fatal o muerte por cualquier causa. Se utilizaron curvas ROC para evaluar discriminación (ABC > 0.75 buena discriminación). La calibración se evaluó mediante chi-cuadrado de Hosmer Lemeshow (Chi > 20 o p < 0.05 pobre calibración). Incluimos 606 pacientes, 366 mujeres, edad promedio 56.7 ± 8.4 años. Se observaron 10 (1.7%) muertes de causa no cardiovascular, 5 (0.8%) causa cardiovascular. Se registraron 58 (9.8%) ECV no fatales. Hubo aceptable discriminación para ecuaciones de Framingham, ATP-III y ECA. La calibración global solo fue buena con las ecuaciones de ATP-III y ECA. La frecuencia observada de ECV fue baja, y hubo sobreestimación de RCV con todas las ecuaciones. Sin embargo, se podría sugerir la aplicación de las ecuaciones de ATP-III o ECA en esta población.

Abstract The performance of available risk scores to predict cardiovascular risk (CVR) in the Argentinian population is unknown. Our aim was to compare the CVR predicted by several equations with the occurrence of cardiovascular events (CVE) in patients without known cardiovascular disease in an Argentinian hospital. Adults between 40 and 70 years were randomly selected, excluding those with prior history of major CVE, active cancer, lipid lowering treatment and absence of follow-up data. Framingham 2008, SCORE (low and high-risk populations), ATP III, World Health OrganizationAmerican B region (WHO-B) and Pooled Cohort equations (PC) risk scores were used to calculate 10-y CVR at time of enrollment. End of follow-up was 10 years ± 6 months, occurrence of fatal myocardial infarction or death from any cause. We used ROC curves to assess discrimination (AUC > 0.75 good discrimination), and Hosmer Lemeshow chi-square to evaluate calibration (Chi > 20 or p value < 0.05 poor calibration). We included 606 patients in our study, 336 women, average age 56.7 ± 8.4 year. Of those, 10 (1.7%) non-cardiovascular deaths, and 5 (0.8%) cardiovascular deaths were observed. 58 (9.8%) a non-fatal CVE were recorded. There was acceptable discrimination for Framingham, ATP-III, and both PC equations. The global calibration was only good with the ATP-III and PC equations. The observed frequency of CVE was low, and the CVR was overestimated by all equations. However, applying ATP-III or PC equations to assess CVR could be considered in our population.

[Performance of equations to predict cardiovascular risk in an Argentine population]. / Rendimiento de ecuaciones para predecir riesgo cardiovascular en una población argentina.

The performance of available risk scores to predict cardiovascular risk (CVR) in the Argentinian population is unknown. Our aim was to compare the CVR predicted by several equations with the occurrence of cardiovascular events (CVE) in patients without known cardiovascular disease in an Argentinian hospital. Adults between 40 and 70 years were randomly selected, excluding those with prior history of major CVE, active cancer, lipid lowering treatment and absence of follow-up data. Framingham 2008, SCORE (low and high-risk populations), ATP III, World Health Organization- American B region (WHO-B) and Pooled Cohort equations (PC) risk scores were used to calculate 10-y CVR at time of enrollment. End of follow-up was 10 years ± 6 months, occurrence of fatal myocardial infarction or death from any cause. We used ROC curves to assess discrimination (AUC > 0.75 good discrimination), and Hosmer Lemeshow chi-square to evaluate calibration (Chi > 20 or p value < 0.05 poor calibration). We included 606 patients in our study, 336 women, average age 56.7 ± 8.4 year. Of those, 10 (1.7%) non-cardiovascular deaths, and 5 (0.8%) cardiovascular deaths were observed. 58 (9.8%) a non-fatal CVE were recorded. There was acceptable discrimination for Framingham, ATP-III, and both PC equations. The global calibration was only good with the ATP-III and PC equations. The observed frequency of CVE was low, and the CVR was overestimated by all equations. However, applying ATP-III or PC equations to assess CVR could be considered in our population.

El rendimiento de las ecuaciones existentes de predicción de riesgo cardiovascular (RCV) en población argentina es desconocido. Se comparó RCV estimado por dichas ecuaciones, con la ocurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares (ECV) en una población de pacientes sin enfermedad cardiovascular de un hospital argentino. Se incluyeron aleatoriamente adultos entre 40 y 70 años, excluyéndose quienes al momento del enrolamiento presentaban historia de ECV mayor, cáncer activo, o tratamiento hipolipemiante. Se calculó RCV a 10 años al momento de inclusión, utilizando ecuaciones de Framingham 2008, SCORE (para poblaciones de bajo y alto riesgo), ATP III, Organización mundial de la salud- región América B (OMS-B) y Ecuación de Cohorte Agrupada (ECA). El fin de seguimiento fue 10 años ± 6 meses, ocurrencia de infarto de miocardio fatal o muerte por cualquier causa. Se utilizaron curvas ROC para evaluar discriminación (ABC > 0.75 buena discriminación). La calibración se evaluó mediante chi-cuadrado de Hosmer Lemeshow (Chi > 20 o p < 0.05 pobre calibración). Incluimos 606 pacientes, 366 mujeres, edad promedio 56.7 ± 8.4 años. Se observaron 10 (1.7%) muertes de causa no cardiovascular, 5 (0.8%) causa cardiovascular. Se registraron 58 (9.8%) ECV no fatales. Hubo aceptable discriminación para ecuaciones de Framingham, ATP-III y ECA. La calibración global solo fue buena con las ecuaciones de ATP-III y ECA. La frecuencia observada de ECV fue baja, y hubo sobreestimación de RCV con todas las ecuaciones. Sin embargo, se podría sugerir la aplicación de las ecuaciones de ATP-III o ECA en esta población.

Urinary tract infections in hospitalized patients.

INTRODUCTION: Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) are an important cause of morbidity in the community, constituting one of the main reasons for hospitalization, and the fourth cause of healthcare-associated infection. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of community-acquired UTI (CA-UTI) with need of hospitalization and healthcare-associated UTI (HA-UTI), their risk factors, etiologic agents and their antimicrobial susceptibility spectrum. METHODS: A prospective and analytic study was conducted, in which all admissions regarding CA-UTI with need of hospitalization and HA-UTI were evaluated during the period between 2016 and 2017 in two university hospitals. RESULTS: A total of 279 episodes of UTI in hospitalized patients were identified and, among those, 178 episodes corresponded to CA-UTI and 101 to HA-UTI. On average, patients were 60 years old in both groups. HA-UTI were more frequently associated with kidney transplant, recurrent UTI and chronic kidney disease compared with CA-UTI. The instrumentation of urinary tract within the previous month was more frequent in HA-UTI (75.2% vs 32.6%, p<0.001). Escherichia coli was the most frequent isolated microorganism (62.9% in CA-UTI and 56.4% in HA-UTI), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A total of 101 multidrug resistant microorganisms were isolated, of which 53.5% were CA-UTI, and were associated with male patients, use of antimicrobials within the previous three months, chronic kidney disease and recurrent UTI. CONCLUSION: It is of great importance for the institutions to identify the local antimicrobial susceptibility spectrum of UTI in order to stablish adequate empiric treatments.

[Epidemiological and microbiological characteristics of uncomplicated urinary infections]. / Características epidemiológicas y microbiológicas de las infecciones urinarias no complicadas.

Introduction: Uncomplicated urinary tract infections(UC-UTI) represent a frequent reason for consultation. Most cases are empirically treated, but the antimicrobial susceptibility of the causative microorganisms has changed over the past years. The objectives of this study where to determine UC-UTI causative microorganism and their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles in adult women. Methods: A prospective analytic study was conducted in two hospital in Córdoba, Argentina, between November/2016 and October/2017. From the identification of positive urine cultures, urinary tract infections (UTI) in women ≥18 years without risk factors for complicated UTIs were included, excluding asymptomatic bacteriurias. Results: A total of 610 UC-UTI were identified and 62.6% of them in patients younger than 50 years; 73.3% of cases were cystitis, being more frequent in older women. Escherichia coli was isolated in 89.2% of UTI and negative coagulase Staphylococcus in 4.2%. As regards Escherichia coli, its resistance against ciprofloxacin was 18.8%; 4.4% against ceftriaxone and 1.8% against nitrofurantoin. There was an elevated resistance against ampicillin, trimethoprim­sulfamethoxazole and ampicillin­sulbactam. Main conclusion: The most frequent isolated microorganism was Escherichia coli, consistent with global epidemiology. This microorganism showed less than 20% total resistance against ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone and nitrofurantoin.

Introducción: Las infecciones del tracto urinario no complicadas (ITU-NoC) representan un motivo frecuente de consulta ambulatorio, siendo la mayoría tratadas empíricamente. Han existido cambios en susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en los últimos años. Nuestros objetivos fueron determinar los microorganismos de las ITU-NoC y su perfil de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en mujeres adultas. Métodos: Estudio analítico prospectivo en dos hospitales de Córdoba, Argentina, entre noviembre/2016 y octubre/2017. A partir de la identificación de urocultivos positivos, se incluyeron las infecciones urinarias(ITUs) en mujeres ≥18 años, sin factores de riesgo para ITUs complicada, excluyéndose las bacteriurias asintomáticas. Resultados: Se identificaron 610 episodios de ITU-NoC, 382(63%) en <50 años. El 73.3% de las ITU-noC correspondieron a cistitis, siendo más frecuentes en las mujeres mayores 50 años.  En el 89.2% de las ITUs se aisló Escherichia coli y 4.2% Staphylococcus coagulasa negativo. Respecto a E. coli, su resistencia a ciprofloxacina fue de 18.8%, ceftriaxona 4.4% y nitrofurantoína 1.8%. Se observó una resistencia elevada a ampicilina, trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol y ampicilina-sulbactam. Conclusiones: En conclusión, el microorganismo más frecuentemente aislado fue E. coli, concordando con la epidemiología global, presentando una resistencia menor al 20% a ciprofloxacina, ceftriaxona y nitrofurantoína.

[Nosocomial urinary tract infection: an analysis beyond urinary catheterization]. / Epidemiología de las infecciones urinarias asociadas a catéter y no asociadas a catéter en un hospital universitario de tercer nivel.

INTRODUCTION: Nosocomially acquired urinary tract infections (NAUTI) represent an important public health issue, but its characteristics when they are not catheter associated (CA-UTI) or when they take place outside intensive care units (ICU) are poorly understood. OBJECTIVES: To determine the patients' characteristics, etiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of NAUTI, both CA-UTI and no CA-UTI, in general ward and ICU. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analytic cross-sectional study, between 2009 and 2013, in a third level universitary hospital. All NAUTI episodes were identified, classifying them as CA-UTI and no CA-UTI. RESULTS: We included 253 episodes of NAUTI, being CA-UTI (60,9%) more frequent than no CA-UTI. A 37,4% of no CA-UTI and 59,7% of CA-UTI were identified in ICU. The most frequently isolated microorganisms were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus sp. A 19% of extended spectrum betalactamase producing gram negative bacilli were found, without differences between groups. CONCLUSION: Patients's comorbidities, microorganisms associated to NAUTI and its antimicrobial susceptibility were similar in CA-UTI and no CA-UTI, as in general ward and ICU.

Benefit of an electronic medical record-based alarm in the optimization of stress ulcer prophylaxis / Beneficio de una alarma electrónica de la historia clínica en la optimización de la profilaxis de la úlcera por estrés

BACKGROUND: The use of stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) has risen in recent years, even in patients without a clear indication for therapy. AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of an electronic medical record (EMR)-based alarm to improve appropriate SUP use in hospitalized patients. METHODS: We conducted an uncontrolled before-after study comparing SUP prescription in intensive care unit (ICU) patients and non-ICU patients, before and after the implementation of an EMR-based alarm that provided the correct indications for SUP. RESULTS: 1627 patients in the pre-intervention and 1513 patients in the post-intervention cohorts were included. The EMR-based alarm improved appropriate (49.6% vs. 66.6%, p < 0.001) and reduced inappropriate SUP use (50.4% vs. 33.3%, p < 0.001) in ICU patients only. These differences were related to the optimization of SUP in low risk patients. There was no difference in overt gastrointestinal bleeding between the two cohorts. Unjustified costs related to SUP were reduced by a third after EMR-based alarm use. CONCLUSIONS: The use of an EMR-based alarm improved appropriate and reduced inappropriate use of SUP in ICU patients. This benefit was limited to optimization in low risk patients and associated with a decrease in SUP costs

ANTECEDENTES: El uso de la profilaxis de úlceras por estrés (PUE) ha aumentado en los últimos años, incluso en pacientes sin indicación. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la eficacia de una alarma electrónica en la historia clínica (AEHC) para mejorar el uso apropiado de la PUE en pacientes hospitalizados. MÉTODOS: Estudio no controlado antes-después para comparar la prescripción de la PUE en pacientes de la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) y sala general, antes y después de la implementación de una AEHC que proporcionaba las indicaciones correctas de la PUE. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 1.627 pacientes en la cohorte previa a la intervención y 1.513 pacientes en la cohorte posterior a la intervención. La AEHC mejoró el uso apropiado (49,6 vs. 66,6%; p < 0,001) y redujo el uso inapropiado de la PUE (50,4 vs. 33,3%; p < 0,001) solo en pacientes de la UCI. Estas diferencias se relacionaron a la optimización del uso de la PUE en pacientes de bajo riesgo. No hubo diferencias en la frecuencia de hemorragia digestiva manifiesta entre ambas cohortes. El uso de la AEHC redujo un tercio del costo injustificado relacionado con la PUE. CONCLUSIONES: El uso de una AEHC mejoró el uso apropiado de la PUE y redujo el uso inapropiado de la PUE en pacientes de la UCI. Este beneficio fue limitado a la optimización del uso de la PUE en pacientes de bajo riesgo y se asoció a una disminución del costo de la PUE

[Renal Transplantation in a patient with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: a case report] / Reporte de caso: Trasplante Renal en un paciente con Epidermolisis Bullosa.

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by abnormalities in the anchoring fibrils which attach the basal cell layer of the epidermis to the underlying structures. A characteristic feature of this disorder is the presence of recurrent blistering or erosions, the result of even minor traction to these tissues. Patients with RDEB frequently develop chronic renal failure, and require renal replacement therapy being a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The role of renal transplantation in these patients is scarcely known. We present the case of an end-stage renal disease patient with RDEB treated by renal transplantation and his follow-up during a period of 83 months after the transplant. In this period, there were very low frequency of serious infections as well as the absence of skin tumors. Renal transplantation could be an alternative to renal replacement therapy in epidermolysis bullosa patients with end-stage renal disease, reducing the comorbidities associated with this treatment.

La epidermolisis bullosa distrófica recesiva (EBDR) es una genodermatosis extremadamente infrecuente, caracterizada por la existencia de alteraciones a nivel de las fibras de anclaje que unen la membrana basal de la epidermis a las estructuras subyacentes. Un elemento característico de esta entidad es la formación recurrente de ampollas en piel y mucosas ante traumatismos mínimos, con posterior cicatrización. Los pacientes con EBRD frecuentemente desarrollan enfermedad renal crónica y requieren de terapia de reemplazo renal, constituyendo una importante causa de morbilidad y mortalidad en estos pacientes. El rol del trasplante renal es poco conocido en este tipo de pacientes.Se presenta el caso de un paciente con enfermedad renal terminal y EBDR que es tratado con trasplante renal y su seguimiento a lo largo de un período de 83 meses luego del trasplante. Durante dicho período se observó una baja frecuencia de intercurrencias infecciosas, así como la ausencia de desarrollo de neoplasias cutáneas. El trasplante renal podría ser una alternativa a la terapia de reemplazo dialítica en los pacientes con epidermolisis bullosa asociada a enfermedad renal terminal, reduciendo las comorbilidades asociadas a las terapias dialíticas.

Benefit of an electronic medical record-based alarm in the optimization of stress ulcer prophylaxis.

BACKGROUND: The use of stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) has risen in recent years, even in patients without a clear indication for therapy. AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of an electronic medical record (EMR)-based alarm to improve appropriate SUP use in hospitalized patients. METHODS: We conducted an uncontrolled before-after study comparing SUP prescription in intensive care unit (ICU) patients and non-ICU patients, before and after the implementation of an EMR-based alarm that provided the correct indications for SUP. RESULTS: 1627 patients in the pre-intervention and 1513 patients in the post-intervention cohorts were included. The EMR-based alarm improved appropriate (49.6% vs. 66.6%, p<0.001) and reduced inappropriate SUP use (50.4% vs. 33.3%, p<0.001) in ICU patients only. These differences were related to the optimization of SUP in low risk patients. There was no difference in overt gastrointestinal bleeding between the two cohorts. Unjustified costs related to SUP were reduced by a third after EMR-based alarm use. CONCLUSIONS: The use of an EMR-based alarm improved appropriate and reduced inappropriate use of SUP in ICU patients. This benefit was limited to optimization in low risk patients and associated with a decrease in SUP costs.

Epidemiología de las infecciones urinarias asociadas a catéter y no asociadas a catéter en un hospital universitario de tercer nivel / Nosocomial urinary tract infection: an analysis beyond urinary catheterization

Resumen Introducción: Las infecciones urinarias asociadas a la atención de la salud (ITU-AAS) representan un importante problema sanitario, siendo poco conocidas sus características cuando no están asociadas a cateterización urinaria u ocurren fuera de unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI). Objetivos: Determinar las características de los pacientes con ITU-AAS, etiología y susceptibilidad antimicrobiana de las mismas, tanto asociadas a catéter (ITU-C) como no asociadas a catéter (ITU-noC), en UCI y en sala general. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico retrospectivo de corte transversal entre 2009 y 2013 en un hospital universitario de tercer nivel. Se identificaron todos los episodios de ITU-AAS, diferenciándolas en ITU-C e ITU-noC. Resultados: Se incluyeron 253 episodios de ITU-AAS, siendo más frecuentes las ITU-C (60,9%) respecto a ITU-noC. Un 37,4% de ITU-noC y 59,7% de ITU-C ocurrieron en UCI. Los microorganismos aislados más frecuentemente fueron Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae y Enterococcus sp. El 19% de los bacilos gramnegativos fueron productores de β-lactamasa de espectro extendido, siendo su frecuencia similar en ambos grupos. Conclusión: Las co-morbilidades de los pacientes con ITU-AAS, los agentes etiológicos responsables y sus correspondientes espectros de sensibilidad, fueron similares en los grupos de ITU-C e ITU-noC, tanto en sala general como en UCI.

Introduction: Nosocomially acquired urinary tract infections (NAUTI) represent an important public health issue, but its characteristics when they are not catheter associated (CA-UTI) or when they take place outside intensive care units (ICU) are poorly understood. Objectives: To determine the patients' characteristics, etiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of NAUTI, both CA-UTI and no CA-UTI, in general ward and ICU. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analytic cross-sectional study, between 2009 and 2013, in a third level universitary hospital. All NAUTI episodes were identified, classifying them as CA-UTI and no CA-UTI. Results: We included 253 episodes of NAUTI, being CA-UTI (60,9%) more frequent than no CA-UTI. A 37,4% of no CA-UTI and 59,7% of CA-UTI were identified in ICU. The most frequently isolated microorganisms were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus sp. A 19% of extended spectrum betalactamase producing gram negative bacilli were found, without differences between groups. Conclusion: Patients's comorbidities, microorganisms associated to NAUTI and its antimicrobial susceptibility were similar in CA-UTI and no CA-UTI, as in general ward and ICU.

Experiencia prospectiva en el uso perioperatorio de antagonistas de vitamina K en pacientes de bajo riesgo tromboembólico que reciben cirugía electiva / Perioperative management of vitamin K antagonists in patients with low thromboembolic risk undergoing elective surgery: A prospective experience

Fundamento y objetivos: Se cuantificó la ocurrencia de episodios hemorrágicos y tromboembólicos en pacientes anticoagulados con antagonistas de vitamina K con bajo riesgo de tromboembolia, sometidos a un procedimiento invasivo electivo. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo, unicéntrico entre diciembre de 2010 y julio de 2014. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años, anticoagulados crónicamente con cumarínicos que ingresaron para realizar cirugía electiva. Se excluyeron los pacientes con aclaramiento de creatinina<30ml/min, peso>120kg, trombocitopenia inducida por heparina, embarazadas, catéter peridural para analgesia, cirugías no programadas y aquellos con alto riesgo tromboembólico. Se suspendió el antagonista de vitamina K 5 días antes del procedimiento sin administrar enoxaparina anticoagulante. Se midió RIN 24h antes del procedimiento y se administraron 3mg de vitamina K si este era mayor de 1,5. En el postoperatorio se reinició cumarínico según el riesgo de hemorragia asociado al procedimiento quirúrgico. Se evaluaron los episodios embólicos y hemorrágicos ocurridos desde el día 5 anterior al procedimiento hasta 30 días después de este. Resultados: Se registraron 75 procedimientos. En 56 casos (74,7%) los pacientes estaban anticoagulados por fibrilación auricular, 15 por tromboembolismo venoso (20%) y 4 por válvula cardíaca mecánica (5,3%). Veintiséis pacientes (34,5%) se sometieron a cirugías de alto riesgo de hemorragia y 49 (65,5%) de bajo riesgo. No se registró ningún episodio tromboembólico y acontecieron 4 (5,3%) episodios hemorrágicos; 3 (4%) correspondieron a hemorragias mayores (2, mortales). Conclusiones: Suspender la anticoagulación con cumarínicos sin tratamiento puente en pacientes de bajo riesgo de tromboembolia no expondría a estos a la ocurrencia de episodios embólicos (AU)

Background and objectives: To quantify thromboembolic and bleeding events in patients with low thromboembolic risk, who were chronically receiving vitamin K antagonists and undergoing elective surgery. Material and methods: A descriptive, prospective, single-center study was conducted between December 2010 and July 2014. Patients aged over 18 years old, chronically anticoagulated with vitamin K antagonists and admitted for elective surgery were included in the study. We excluded patients with a creatinine clearance<30ml/min, a body weight>120kg, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, pregnant women, carriers of an epidural catheter for analgesia, patients who underwent unscheduled surgery and high thromboembolic risk-patients. Vitamin K antagonists were discontinued 5 days prior to the procedure without administering anticoagulant enoxaparin. The NIR was measured 24h before the procedure. A single dose of 3mg of vitamin K was administered in cases of a NIR>1.5. Vitamin K antagonists was resumed according to the surgical bleeding risk. Events were registered between 5 days prior to the procedure until 30 days after it. Results: A total of 75 procedures were included in the study. Fifty-six patients (74.7%) received vitamin K antagonists for atrial fibrillation, 15 suffered from venous thromboembolism (20%) and 4 had mechanical heart valves (5.3%). Twenty-six patients (34.5%) underwent high-bleeding risk surgeries and 49 (65.5%) underwent low risk procedures. No thromboembolic event was recorded. Four bleeding events (5.3%) were reported, 3 of which were considered major bleeding events (2 fatal). Conclusions: Suspending vitamin K antagonists with no bridging therapy performed in patients with a low thromboembolic risk does not expose such patients to a significant risk of embolic events (AU)

Association between cardiovascular disease risk scores and subclinical atherosclerosis prevalence in non-elderly adult patients from Argentina.

The goal of our study was to use statistical analysis to try to associate cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk scores and the observed prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) in a non-elderly adult local population. An observational cross-sectional study was carried out (143 male and 131 female) on non-elderly adults (20-59 years). CVD risk scores included Framingham Risk Scores for 10-year hard (FRS 10 H), 30-year lipid hard or CVD (FRS 30 L H or FRS 30 L CVD), 30 year-body mass index hard or CVD (FRS 30 BMI H or FRS 30 BMI CVD) and Pooled Cohort Risk Equations for either 10 years (PCE 10) or lifetime (PCE LT). The Carotid Ultrasound (CU) study was performed and the Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score were obtained to assess SA. The Receiving Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis followed by Youden's index was used to evaluate and adjust the stratification of CVD risk scores. SA was detected in 32.4% of individuals. The risk scores that showed the biggest areas under the ROC curve were FRS 30 L (H and CVD). When the cut-off values for these CVD risk scores were adjusted, the FRS 30 L H increased the negative predictive value for the low risk group from 87.7 to 97.0% and the FRS 30 L CVD increased the positive predictive values for the high risk group from 69.7 to 85.7%. The CVD risk stratification of non-elderly adults using FRS 30 L H and FRS 30 L CVD may be a useful tool for selecting candidate patients for diagnostic imaging studies that assess their SA prevalence.

Perioperative management of vitamin K antagonists in patients with low thromboembolic risk undergoing elective surgery: A prospective experience. / Experiencia prospectiva en el uso perioperatorio de antagonistas de vitamina K en pacientes de bajo riesgo tromboembólico que reciben cirugía electiva.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To quantify thromboembolic and bleeding events in patients with low thromboembolic risk, who were chronically receiving vitamin K antagonists and undergoing elective surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A descriptive, prospective, single-center study was conducted between December 2010 and July 2014. Patients aged over 18 years old, chronically anticoagulated with vitamin K antagonists and admitted for elective surgery were included in the study. We excluded patients with a creatinine clearance<30ml/min, a body weight>120kg, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, pregnant women, carriers of an epidural catheter for analgesia, patients who underwent unscheduled surgery and high thromboembolic risk-patients. Vitamin K antagonists were discontinued 5 days prior to the procedure without administering anticoagulant enoxaparin. The NIR was measured 24h before the procedure. A single dose of 3mg of vitamin K was administered in cases of a NIR>1.5. Vitamin K antagonists was resumed according to the surgical bleeding risk. Events were registered between 5 days prior to the procedure until 30 days after it. RESULTS: A total of 75 procedures were included in the study. Fifty-six patients (74.7%) received vitamin K antagonists for atrial fibrillation, 15 suffered from venous thromboembolism (20%) and 4 had mechanical heart valves (5.3%). Twenty-six patients (34.5%) underwent high-bleeding risk surgeries and 49 (65.5%) underwent low risk procedures. No thromboembolic event was recorded. Four bleeding events (5.3%) were reported, 3 of which were considered major bleeding events (2 fatal). CONCLUSIONS: Suspending vitamin K antagonists with no bridging therapy performed in patients with a low thromboembolic risk does not expose such patients to a significant risk of embolic events.

[Uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women: etiology and antimicrobial resistance]. / Infección urinaria no complicada en mujeres: etiología y resistencia a antimicrobianos.

Our objectives were to determine the etiology and analyze the antibiotic resistance profiles of microorganisms causing uncomplicated urinary tract infections in our setting. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted. In vitro antimicrobial resistance of urine cultures was analyzed. 580 urine cultures of women over age fifteen were included. 82.6 % of urine cultures corresponded to cystitis and the remaining 17.4 % corresponded to pyelonephritis. 353 urine cultures of women <50 years old (60.9%) and 227 of women = 50 years old (39.1%) were obtained. The most common pathogens were Escherichia coli (85.5 %) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (4.7 %). For Escherichia coli, there was a resistance of 28.6% to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole,7.9% to ciprofloxacin and 0.4% to nitrofurantoin. Significant difference (p = 0.005) was seen in the resistance to ciprofloxacin in women = 50 years old. Our data show there is a low in vitro resistance to nitrofurantoin

Nuestros objetivos fueron determinar la etiología y analizar los perfiles de resistencia antimicrobiana de los microorganismos causantes de infecciones urinarias no complicadas en nuestro medio. Se realizó un estudio analítico de corte transversal. Se analizó la resistencia antimicrobiana in vitro de los urocultivos. Se incluyeron 580 urocultivos de mujeres mayores de 15 años. Un 82.6% de urocultivos correspondieron a cistitis y el 17.4% a pielonefritis.Se obtuvieron 353 urocultivos de mujeres < 50 años (60.9%) y 227 a ? 50 años (39.1%).Los patógenos más frecuentes fueron: Escherichia coli (85.5%) y Klebsiella pneumoniae (4.7%). Se encontró una resistencia de E coli a trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol del 28.6%, a ciprofloxacina de 7.9% y a nitrofurantoína de 0.4%. Se evidenció diferencia significativa (p=0.005) en la resistencia de E coli a ciprofloxacina en las mujeres ?50 años de edad. Nuestros datos muestran que existe una baja resistencia in vitro a nitrofurantoína.