[Bibliographic review of the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma treatment in lumbar disc herniation]. / Revisión bibliográfica de la eficacia del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas en hernia de disco lumbar.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product containing growth factors and proteins, widely employed in the clinical setting for tissue repair. Robust evidence in basic science literature has facilitated clinical research involving PRP for patients with disc disease and lumbar pain. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) has been identified as a significant contributor to lower back pain, with approximately 40% of patients under 30 and 90% of those over 50 experiencing lumbar pain showing MRI findings consistent with degenerative changes in intervertebral discs. Regenerative medicine within the disc has primarily been studied in patients with chronic, untreatable lumbar pain. Objective: to understand the available evidence regarding the efficacy of PRP in lumbar disc herniation. By understanding the scientific evidence supporting PRP as a lumbar disc herniation treatment, a research project can be developed, providing the theoretical foundation for implementing this therapy in the Mexican population. A search was conducted using PUBMED, ClinicalKey (Elsevier), Medscape, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Conclusions: despite promising results in several studies on intradiscal PRP injection, small sample sizes and non-standardized graft preparation procedures have hindered these research efforts.

El plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) es un producto sanguíneo autólogo que contiene factores de crecimiento y proteínas y se ha utilizado en todo el entorno clínico para la reparación de tejidos. La fuerte evidencia en la literatura de ciencias básicas ha permitido la investigación clínica que involucra PRP para pacientes con enfermedad del disco y dolor lumbar. La enfermedad degenerativa del disco (DDD) se ha establecido como un importante contribuyente a la causa del dolor lumbar: aproximadamente el 40% de los pacientes menores de 30 años y el 90% de los pacientes mayores de 50 años que tienen dolor lumbar también muestran hallazgos de imágenes de resonancia magnética (IRM) que son consistentes con cambios degenerativos dentro de los discos intervertebrales. La medicina regenerativa intradiscal se ha estudiado principalmente en pacientes con dolor lumbar crónico intratable. Objetivo: conocer la evidencia disponible sobre la eficacia del PRP en hernias de disco lumbar. Al conocer la evidencia científica disponible del PRP como tratamiento de hernia discal lumbar se podrá desarrollar un proyecto de investigación, lo cual sustentará las bases teóricas para realizar esta terapia en la población mexicana. Se realizó búsqueda en base de datos PUBMED, ClinicalKey (Elsevier), Medscape, Science Direct, Google Scholar. Conclusiones: aunque varias investigaciones han arrojado resultados prometedores con respecto a la inyección intradiscal de PRP los tamaños de muestra pequeños y los procedimientos de preparación de injertos no estandarizados obstaculizaron estos esfuerzos de investigación.

Situación epidemiológica de la Tuberculosis infantil en el departamento de Caldas 2016-2018 / Epidemiologic situation about Tuberculosis in children at the department of Caldas 2016-2018

Resumen Objetivo: Describir la epidemiología de la tuberculosis infantil en el Departamento de Caldas (2016-2018). Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional-descriptivo. Resultados: se registraron 41 casos (4%, 41/1.029). La incidencia fue 2,96/100.000 (2016), 6,31/100.000 (2017) y 4,34 /100.000 (2018). La mediana de edad fue 10 años (RI 2-16). El sexo femenino aporto 53,66%, predominó el estrato socioeconómico bajo (90,24%, 37/41), Manizales aportó la mayor carga de casos (43,9%, 18/41). La TB pulmonar se presentó en 39,02% de los casos de tuberculosis infantil. 68,29% (28/41) reportaron haber tenido síntomas alrededor de 15 días de evolución. 70,73% (29/41) presentarón tos con expectoración y 65,85% (27/41) reportaron astenia o disnea. La PPD se midió en 65,85% de la población (27/41) siendo positiva (> 10 mm) en 62,96% (17/27). El diagnóstico radiológico se realizó en 56,1% (23/41). Se reportaron 10 casos de TB extrapulmonar, la presentación más frecuente fue ganglionar (7/10). Se presentaron dos casos fatales. Discusión: La tuberculosis infantil en Caldas refleja la naturaleza de la enfermedad, afectándose principalmente niñas con vulnerabilidades sociales. El síntoma más común es tos húmeda con expectoración, similar a otros estudios desarrollados en Colombia. No se cuenta con una herramienta diagnostica con rendimiento suficiente, por lo que este sigue siendo un desafío clínico.

Abstract Objective: To describe the epidemiology of childhood TB in the Department of Caldas (2016-2018). Materials and methods: Observational-descriptive study. Results: 41 cases were registered (4%, 41 / 1,029). The incidence was 2.96 / 100,000 (2016), 6.31 / 100,000 (2017) and 4.34 / 100,000 (2018). The median age was 10 years (IR 2-16). The female sex contributed 53.66%, the low socioeconomic status predominated (90.24%, 37/41). Manizales contributed the highest case load (43.9%, 18/41). Pulmonary TB occurred in 39.02% of childhood TB cases. 68.29% (28/41) reported having symptoms around 15 days of evolution. 70.73% (29/41) presented cough with expectoration and 65.85% (27/41) reported asthenia or dyspnea. PPD was measured in 65.85% of the population (27/41), being positive (> 10 mm) in 62.96% (17/27). The radiological diagnosis was made in 56.1% (23/41). 10 cases of extrapulmonary TB were reported, the most frequent presentation was lymph node TB (7/10). Two fatal cases occurred. Discussion: Childhood tuberculosis in Caldas reflects the nature of the disease, mainly affecting girls with social vulnerabilities. The most common symptom is wet cough with expectoration, similar to other studies developed in Colombia. There is not a diagnostic tool with sufficient performance, so this remains a clinical challenge.

Antioxidant capacity, reproductive response and glucose concentration and insulin of ewes supplemented prior to insemination with orange residue / [Capacidade antioxidante, resposta reprodutiva e concentração de glicose e insulina de ovelhas suplementadas antes da inseminação com resíduo de laranja]

The objective was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity, glucose and insulin concentration and reproductive performance of ewes supplemented with orange residue prior to insemination. Fifty-five multiparous ewes were divided into two corrals, and 15 unbred ewes were kept individually to measure feed consumption. Two integral diets were administered; T0: control treatment and T1: with 20% of dry matter of orange residue. Ten days after the start of supplementation, the ewes were synchronized. Supplementation was finalized prior to artificial insemination, then, a blood sample was taken to measure the antioxidant capacity and glucose and insulin concentration. An analysis of variance was made to evaluate the effect of treatment on the antioxidant capacity, glucose and insulin; and to analyze the response to estrus, percentage of gestation and prolificity a ji squared test was performed. Of 9 antioxidant compounds found in the orange residue, hesperidin (7.44%), chlorogenic acid (0.50%) and protocatechuic acid had the highest concentration. Feed intake, estrus response, percentage of gestation, antioxidant capacity, and glucose and insulin concentration were not affected by the treatment. It is concluded that inclusion of 20% of orange residue in the diet prior to insemination in ewes is possible.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a capacidade antioxidante, a concentração de glicose e insulina e o comportamento reprodutivo de ovelhas suplementadas com resíduo de laranja antes da inseminação. Cinquenta e cinco ovelhas multíparas foram divididas em dois currais e 15 ovelhas sem raça foram mantidas individualmente para se medir o consumo de ração. Duas dietas integrais foram administradas; T0: tratamento controle e T1: dieta com 20% de resíduo de laranja seco. Dias após o início da suplementação, as ovelhas foram sincronizadas. A suplementação foi finalizada antes da inseminação artificial e, em seguida, foi coletada uma amostra de sangue para medir a capacidade antioxidante e a concentração de glicose e insulina. Uma análise de variância foi feita para avaliar o efeito do tratamento sobre a capacidade antioxidante, a glicose e a insulina, e um teste do ji quadrado foi realizado para analisar a resposta ao estro, a porcentagem de gestação e de prolificidade. Dos nove compostos antioxidantes encontrados no resíduo laranja, a hesperidina (7,44%), o ácido clorogênico (0,50%) e o ácido protocatecuico foram os de maior concentração. O consumo alimentar, a resposta ao estro, a porcentagem de gestação, a capacidade antioxidante, a concentração de glicose e a insulina não foram afetados pelo tratamento. Conclui-se que é possível a inclusão de 20% de resíduos de laranja na dieta antes da inseminação em ovelhas.(AU)

Use of Tithonia diversifolia (hemsl) A. Gray in the diet of growing lambs / [Uso de tithonia diversifolia (hemsl) A. Gray na dieta de cordeiros em crescimento]

Two assays were conducted to study the Tithonia diversifolia (Td) plant: (1) chemical analysis and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of plant parts and (2) productive performance of lambs fed a traditional diet or a Td diet (30% of Td plus 70% of the traditional diet). The plant parts studied were leaves (L), leaves and petioles (LP); and leaves, petioles and stems (LPS). Feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion were registered weekly during five weeks of experimentation. The L showed higher (P<0.05) crude protein content (26.7%) than LP and LPS (25.5 and 19.7%, respectively). Crude fiber (11.2%), neutral detergent fiber (45.4%), cellulose (16.9%) and hemicellulose (33.5%) were lower in L than in LP (12.5, 46.7, 18.0 and 35.7%, respectively) and LPS (22.6, 59.2, 27.0 and 43.5%, respectively). The L and LP showed the highest IVDMD (89.2 and 88.2%, respectively vs. 77.2% of LPS). The Td diet resulted in greater feed intake and weight gain and lower feed conversion than the traditional diet. Therefore, Tithonia diversifolia is a forage plant of good quality for lambs which does not affect the productive performance.(AU)

Dois ensaios foram realizados para estudar a planta de Tithonia diversifolia (Td): (1) análise química e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) de partes de plantas e (2) desempenho produtivo de cordeiros alimentados com dieta tradicional ou dieta Td (30% de Td mais 70% da dieta tradicional). As partes vegetais estudadas foram folhas (L), folhas e pecíolos (LP); folhas, pecíolos e caules (LPS). O consumo de ração, o ganho de peso e a conversão alimentar foram registrados semanalmente, durante cinco semanas de experimentação. O L apresentou maior (P<0,05) conteúdo de proteína bruta (26,7%) que o LP e o LPS (25,5 e 19,7%, respectivamente). Fibra bruta (11,2%), fibra em detergente neutro (45,4%), celulose (16,9%) e hemicelulose (33,5%) foram menores em L do que em LP (12,5, 46,7, 18,0 e 35,7%, respectivamente) e LPS (22,6, 59,2, 27,0 e 43,5%, respectivamente). O L e o LP apresentaram o maior DIVMS (89,2 e 88,2%, respectivamente vs. 77,2% do LPS). A dieta Td resultou em maior consumo de ração e maior ganho de peso e menor conversão alimentar que a dieta tradicional. Portanto, Tithonia diversifolia é uma planta forrageira de boa qualidade para cordeiros que não afeta o desempenho produtivo.(AU)

Progression of Alzheimer's disease and effect of scFv-h3D6 immunotherapy in the 3xTg-AD mouse model: An in vivo longitudinal study using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an incurable disease that affects most of the 47 million people estimated as living with dementia worldwide. The main histopathological hallmarks of AD are extracellular ß-amyloid (Aß) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. In recent years, Aß-immunotherapy has been revealed as a potential tool in AD treatment. One strategy consists of using single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), which avoids the fragment crystallizable (Fc) effects that are supposed to trigger a microglial response, leading to microhemorrhages and vasogenic edemas, as evidenced in clinical trials with bapineuzumab. The scFv-h3D6 generated by our research group derives from this monoclonal antibody, which targets the N-terminal of the Aß peptide and recognizes monomers, oligomers and fibrils. In this study, 3xTg-AD mice were intraperitoneally and monthly treated with 100 µg of scFv-h3D6 (a dose of ~3.3 mg/kg) or PBS, from 5 to 12 months of age (-mo), the age at which the mice were sacrificed and samples collected for histological and biochemical analyses. During treatments, four monitoring sessions using magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy (MRI/MRS) were performed at 5, 7, 9, and 12 months of age. MRI/MRS techniques are widely used in both human and mouse research, allowing to draw an in vivo picture of concrete aspects of the pathology in a non-invasive manner and allowing to monitor its development across time. Compared with the genetic background, 3xTg-AD mice presented a smaller volume in almost all cerebral regions and ages examined, an increase in both the intra and extracellular Aß1-42 at 12-mo, and an inflammation process at this age, in both the hippocampus (IL-6 and mIns) and cortex (IL-6). In addition, treatment with scFv-h3D6 partially recovered the values in brain volume, and Aß, IL-6, and mIns concentrations, among others, encouraging further studies with this antibody fragment.

Expression of Cyclin D1 protein in residual tumor after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer.

PURPOSE: Hormone receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer (BC) shows a poor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). New treatment targets like the Cyclin D1-CDK4/CDK6 complex are promising adjuvant/post-neoadjuvant therapeutic strategies. Evaluating Cyclin D1 overexpression in residual tumor could recognize those patients that benefit most from such post-neoadjuvant treatment. In this study, we determined Cyclin D1 expression in residual BC after NACT. Secondary aims were to correlate Cyclin D1 expression levels with clinicopathological parameters and to assess its prognostic value after NACT. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed the nuclear expression of Cyclin D1 on tissue microarrays with residual tumor from 284 patients treated in the neoadjuvant GeparTrio (n = 186) and GeparQuattro (n = 98) trials. Evaluation was performed with a standardized immunoreactive score (IRS) after selecting a cut-off value. RESULTS: A high expression level (IRS ≥ 6) of Cyclin D1 was found in 37.3% of the assessed specimens. An increased Cyclin D1 expression was observed in HR-positive tumors, compared to HR-negative tumors (p = 0.02). Low Cyclin D1 levels correlated with clinical tumor stage 1-3 (p = 0.03). Among patients with HR-positive/Her2-negative tumors and high Cyclin D1 expression, a better disease-free survival (DFS) was graphically suggested, but not significant (p = 0.21). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates a measurable nuclear expression of Cyclin D1 in post-neoadjuvant residual tumor tissue of HR-positive BC. Cyclin D1 expression was not prognostic for DFS after NACT. Our results and defined cut-off suggest that the marker can be used to stratify tumors according to protein expression levels. Based on this, a prospective evaluation is currently performed in the ongoing Penelope-B trial.

Reproductive ecology of the carnivorous plant Pinguicula moranensis (Lentibulariaceae).

The interaction of plants with pollinators can be a determinant of their reproductive fitness. However, information about the pollination biology of carnivorous plants is scarce. To increase knowledge of reproductive ecology of carnivorous plants we focused on Pinguicula moranensis. Specifically, based on the presence of large, zygomorphic and spurred flowers, we predicted higher reproductive fitness in cross-pollinated than in self-pollinated flowers. Within a plot of 51 m2 we characterised the reproductive phenology, including flower lifespan and stigmatic receptivity. We identified pollinators and their movement patterns within the plot. Breeding system was experimentally evaluated using hand-pollination (i.e. autonomous, self- and cross-pollination). Flowers of P. moranensis were visited by long-tongued pollinators, mainly members of the Lepidoptera. Hand-pollination experiments confirmed our prediction and suggest that flower traits might favour cross-pollination. We mainly discuss the implications of the patchy distribution of plants and behaviour of pollinators on gene movement in this plant species, as pollination between genetically related individuals could be occurring.

Neuroestimulación de las raíces sacras bajo técnica retrógrada para dolor perineal. Reporte de casos / Sacral neuromodulation under retrograde technique, for chronic perineal pain

Introducción: La neuroestimulación de las raíces sacras bajo técnica retrógrada (NERSR) es eficaz para el tratamiento del dolor perineal crónico (DPC) refractario a tratamiento farmacológico. Este reporte busca demostrar la utilidad de la NERSR para el control del dolor y su impacto en la calidad de vida del paciente. Material y métodos: Se presentan tres casos con DPC por coxigodinia (caso 1 y 2) y neuralgia del nervio pudendo (caso 3) sin respuesta a tratamientos convencionales e intervencionistas, previamente seleccionados en el Servicio de Clínica del Dolor, Centro Médico Nacional '20 de Noviembre'- Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE), México D.F., desde junio 2006 a septiembre 2014. La neuroestimulación sacra se realizó en dos etapas: primero con la colocación de un electrodo de neuroestimulación de prueba positiva (CENPP) y posteriormente implantación del NERSR. Se evaluó al paciente a la primera y segunda semana, después una vez al mes durante seis meses y, posteriormente, cada cuatro meses hasta el momento actual. Resultados: Se exponen tres casos clínicos, con edad promedio de 55,6 años, dos de sexo femenino y uno de sexo masculino con DPC. Caso 1 y 2 con diagnóstico de coxigodinia y caso 3 con neuralgia del nervio pudendo. Previo a la implantación presentaban dolor severo (valorada con la Escala Verbal Análoga del dolor (EVA 8-10/10), un Oswestry con limitación funcional discapacitante (32 puntos equivalente a un 64 % de discapacidad) y una entrevista psicológica con presencia de depresión moderada y ansiedad alta en promedio (Cuestionario Depresión de Beck y Salud de Goldberg). En la actualidad presentan un dolor leve (EVA 1-3/10), un Oswestry con limitación funcional moderada (18 puntos equivalente a 35 % de discapacidad), depresión y ansiedad leve en promedio. Se reportó una complicación menor, posterior a la implantación, por fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR). Conclusión: En esta pequeña serie de casos se demostró que una alternativa para el tratamiento del DPC es la estimulación medular. Al controlar el dolor, mejora la calidad de vida del paciente y el estado psico-emocional que presentaba previo a la implantación (AU)

Introduction: Neurostimulation of the sacral nerves by Retrograde Technique (NESRT) is effective for the treatment of drug refractory Chronic Perineal Pain (CPP). This paper seeks to understand the usefulness of NERSR for pain control and its impact on the patients’ quality of life. Materials and methods: Three cases are presented, previously selected from the Service of Pain Clinic, '20 de Noviembre' National Medical Center - Institute for Social Security and Services for State Workers (ISSSTE), Mexico D.F. from June 2006 to September 2014, with PPC: cases one and two caused by coccygodynia, and case three with pudendal nerve neuralgia, all unresponsive to conventional and interventional treatments. Sacral neuromodulation was performed in two stages: first with the placement of a Neurostimulation Positive Test Electrode (NPTP) and then by implementing NESRT. The patient was evaluated during the first and second week, then once a month for six months and finally every four months up to current time. Results: Three clinical cases with DPC, mean age 55.6 years, two female and one male, are exposed. Case one and two diagnosed with coccydynia and Case three with neuralgia of the pudendal nerve. Prior to implantation they showed severe pain (assessed with the Pain Verbal Analogue Scale (VAS 8-10 / 10), an Oswestry with disabling functional limitations (32 points equivalent to a 64 % disability) and a psychological interview with presence of average moderate depression and high anxiety (Beck Depression Questionnaire and Goldberg Health). Currently, they show mild pain (VAS 1-3/10), an Oswestry with moderate functional limitation (18 points equivalent to 35 % of disability) and average mild depression and anxiety. There was only one mild complication after implantation, due to fistula of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Conclusion: Spinal cord stimulation has proven to be and effective alternative treatment in dealing with DPC. By controlling pain, it improves the patients’ quality of life and the psycho- emotional state shown prior to implantation (AU)

Método óptimo para la obtención de plasma rico en plaquetas en el Servicio de Clínica del Dolor del CMN 20 de noviembre ISSSTE / Optimal method to obtain platelet-rich plasma at the Pain Management Clinic of the NMC 20 de noviembre ISSSTE

Objetivos: Describir el método óptimo para obtener plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP). Material y métodos: Previo consentimiento informado, se obtuvieron de 36 pacientes sanos una muestra sanguínea de 15 ml distribuidos en 5 tubos estériles: uno para obtención de biometría hemática y el resto se sometieron a alguno de los 3 protocolos para obtención de plasma rico en plaquetas. Protocolo 1 (n = 21): 1200 rpm/2 ciclos/8 minutos (cada ciclo); protocolo 2 (n = 8): 1200 rpm/1 ciclo de centrifugado/8 minutos. Protocolo 3 (n = 7): 1200 rpm/1 ciclo de centrifugado/10 minutos. De las muestras obtenidas, se analizó 1 ml de plasma mediante citómetro de flujo automatizado (BD FACSCanto II) y se determinó el rendimiento plaquetario mediante la fórmula: recuento de plaquetas PRP (100)/recuento de plaquetas de sangre total. El método estadístico empleado fue medidas de tendencia central, Chi cuadrado, t de Student, análisis de varianza, prueba de Wilcoxon y probabilidad de Kruskal-Wallis. Resultados: El promedio de concentración basal plaquetaria fue de 261.2 miles/mcl para los 3 métodos (p = 0.906). Después del proceso de centrifugado para protocolo 1 fue 662.3 ± 243.3 (p = 0.001); protocolo 2, 377.9 ± 101.4 (p = 0.008) y 30.9 ± 18.8 (p = 0.016) para el 3. El rendimiento fue: 255.2 ± 57.6 %; 149.3 ± 24.6 %; 13.3 ± 11.6 %, respectivamente. Conclusión: Se logró obtener PRP aplicando el primer protocolo (1200 rpm/2 ciclos/8 minutos cada ciclo). El estudio se realizó en pacientes adultos sanos, sin embargo, se tendrán que realizar estudios posteriores con una mayor población para comprobar la efectividad de este método. En caso de que la obtención plaquetaria en estudios con mayor población sea la adecuada, deberá validarse su utilidad clínica en paciente con enfermedades crónico degenerativas y se tomen en cuenta las enfermedades concomitantes (AU)

Objective: To determine the optimal method to collect platelet- rich plasma (PRP). Material and methods: We collected 15 ml of blood from 36 healthy adults to determine platelet count and to test which of the following three protocols were the best to collect PRP. We used 3 ml of blood for each method: protocol 1: (n = 21) the blood tube was tested at 1200 revolutions per minute (RPM) in 2 centrifuge cycles of 8 minutes each; protocol 2 (n = 8): 1200 RPM/1 cycle/8 minutes, and protocol 3: (n = 7): 1200 RPM/1 cycle/10 minutes. From the blood samples that we collected, we also analyzed 1 ml of plasma to determine platelet performance by using an automatic flow cytometer (BD FACSCanto II). Platelet performance was determined by the following formula: platelet PRP count (100)/platelet count from total blood. The statistical method used were measures of central tendency, Chi-square, t-test, analysis of variance and the Wilcoxon and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: The basal overall count of platelet was 261.2 miles/ mcl for the three methods (p = 0.906), 662.3 ± 243.3 (p = 0.001) for protocol 1; 377.9 ± 101.4 (p = 0.008) for protocol 2 and 30.9 ± 18.8 (p = 0.016) for protocol 3. Platelet performances were 255.2 ± 57.6 %; 149.3 ± 24.6 %; 13.3 ± 11.6 % respectively. Conclusion: Applying the first protocol we obtain PRP (1200 RPM/2 cycles of 8 minutes each). This study was done in healthy adults; however, future studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm our findings of this method. In case of collecting platelets in studies with greater population being the adequate, its clinical utility should be validated by including patients with chronic and degenerative diseases and take care of associated diseases (AU)

Efecto del plasma rico en plaquetas y/o factores de crecimiento sobre la regeneración y el dolor crónico asociado a discopatía intervertebral. Revisión sistemática / Effect of platelet rich plasma and growth factors on the regeneration and chronic pain associated with intervertebral disc disease. Systematic review

Objetivo: Determinar el efecto del plasma rico en plaquetas y factores de crecimiento sobre la regeneración y la reducción del dolor en discopatía degenerativa. Material y método: Revisión sistemática de la literatura. Se siguió las recomendaciones de la colaboración Cochrane expuestas en el Cochrane Hand book for Systematic Reviews of interventions. Se incluyeron ensayos clínicos aleatorizados fases preclínicas y clínicas donde evaluaban el efecto del plasma rico en plaquetas o factores de crecimiento sobre la discopatía degenerativa entre el 1 de septiembre de 2013 y el 30 de septiembre de 2014, publicados en PubMed, MEDLINE y LILACS. Resultados: En la búsqueda inicial se identificaron 11 artículos, de los cuales 3 cumplieron los criterios de selección determinados para esta revisión. Se realizó estrategia de búsqueda donde se revisaron las citas relacionadas de los tres artículos principales. De éstos, sólo 6 cumplieron los criterios de selección. Se incluyeron dos artículos más que arrojó la búsqueda en google académico, quedando un total de 10 estudios para el análisis final. En esta revisión, nosotros incluimos en la búsqueda de no sólo aquellos estudios realizados in vitro, sino además aquellos estudios en modelos murinos y estudio realizado en humanos. De estos estudios, la mayor parte de ellos fueron realizados in vitro (6), en modelos animales (2) y en humanos (2). En este estudio se seleccionaron sólo aquellos estudios donde fue evaluado el PRP y/o los factores de crecimiento sobre las células o tejidos del disco intervertebral. Para poder conocer el efecto que estas sustancias, tienen que ser evaluadas en estudios tanto preclínicos como clínicos. Todos los estudios analizados coincidieron sobre el efecto antiinflamatorio, reparador, proliferador e incluso en la mejoría del dolor de la discopatía vertebral. Conclusiones: Los resultados de los estudios muestra el efecto antiinflamatorio, reparador, proliferador e incluso en la mejoría del dolor de la discopatía vertebral. En ninguno de ellos se mencionó si este aumento de la síntesis de la matriz conllevaría a una mayor fibrosis del tejido y mayor deterioro, por lo que los estudios en animales o en humanos deberían enfocarse a evaluar un seguimiento mayor para poder evaluar los efectos tardíos de la terapia. Por lo tanto, podemos concluir que los puntos de enfoque de la investigación actual debe apuntar hacia entender más el mecanismo de la degeneración discal conjuntamente con los beneficios del PRP en tratarla (AU)

Objective: To determine the effect of platelet-rich plasma and growth factors on regeneration and reduction of pain in degenerative disc disease. Methods: Systematic review of the literature. The recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration Cochrane outlined in the Handbook for Systematic Reviews of interventions was followed; randomized clinical trials preclinical and clinical phases which evaluated the effect of platelet-rich plasma or growth factors for degenerative disc disease between september 1/2013 to september 30/2014, published in PubMed, MEDLINE and LILACS were included. Results: The initial search 11 items of which 3 met the selection criteria determined for this review were identified. Search strategy where citations related to the three main articles were reviewed was conducted. Of these only 6 met the selection criteria. Threw two articles in academic google search, leaving a total of 10 studies were included in the final analysis. In this review we include in the search not only those studies in vitro but also those studies in murine models and human study. From these studies, most of them were done in vitro (6), in animal models (2) and in humans (2). In those studies where this study was evaluated PRP and growth factors on cells or tissues of the intervertebral disc is selected alone. To know the effect these substances have to be evaluated in both preclinical and clinical studies. All studies reviewed agreed on the anti-inflammatory effect, repair, and even proliferator improvement in pain, vertebral discopathy. Conclusions: The results of studies showing the anti-inflammatory effect, repair, and even proliferator improvement in pain, vertebral discopathy. None of them mention whether this increased matrix synthesis would lead to greater tissue fibrosis and further deterioration, so that studies in animals or humans should focus on evaluating increased monitoring, to assess late effects of therapy. Therefore we can conclude that the focus points of the present investigation should point to more understand the mechanism of disc degeneration together with the benefits of PRP to treat it (AU)

Assessment of children exposed to adult pulmonary tuberculosis in Cali, Colombia.

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of uniform criteria for the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis (TB) in children in Cali, Colombia. Addressing TB in children is a challenge in this setting, under both programmatic and research conditions. OBJECTIVES: To facilitate the diagnostic assessment of TB in a paediatric cohort of TB household contacts. METHODS: A diagnostic and management algorithm (DMA) was used to assess children exposed to adult TB cases, according to clinical and epidemiological findings and under programmatic conditions. On the basis of diagnostic tests, cases were classified as TB exposure, TB infection, suspected TB, possible TB or confirmed TB and then submitted to a management plan. This was a prospective pilot study nested within a national cohort study of the transmission dynamics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, undertaken in Colombia during 2005-2008. RESULTS: During 24 months of follow-up, 54 of 217 children met the criteria for assessment by DMA, 18 of whom (33%) were considered to be TB incident cases (new TB cases among household contacts). The main clinical findings were failure to thrive and cough lasting >21 days. Only one case was smear-positive and culture-confirmed TB. TB treatment was given to 16 children and they demonstrated clinical and radiographic resolution at follow-up. Conducting the study under programmatic conditions demonstrated barriers to accessing competent radiological evaluation, correct interpretation of the tuberculin skin test, and proper specimen collection. CONCLUSION: Structured assessment using DMA facilitated the detection of incident TB cases. The study identified potential barriers to addressing childhood TB in Cali.

PI3K/Akt1 signalling specifies foregut precursors by generating regionalized extra-cellular matrix.

During embryonic development signalling pathways act repeatedly in different contexts to pattern the emerging germ layers. Understanding how these different responses are regulated is a central question for developmental biology. In this study, we used mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) differentiation to uncover a new mechanism for PI3K signalling that is required for endoderm specification. We found that PI3K signalling promotes the transition from naïve endoderm precursors into committed anterior endoderm. PI3K promoted commitment via an atypical activity that delimited epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Akt1 transduced this activity via modifications to the extracellular matrix (ECM) and appropriate ECM could itself induce anterior endodermal identity in the absence of PI3K signalling. PI3K/Akt1-modified ECM contained low levels of Fibronectin (Fn1) and we found that Fn1 dose was key to specifying anterior endodermal identity in vivo and in vitro. Thus, localized PI3K activity affects ECM composition and ECM in turn patterns the endoderm. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00806.001.

Spinosad for the treatment of head lice infestations.

Head lice infestations continue to be an issue in today's society, with an increase in economic cost and resistance. Spinosad 0.9% topical suspension was recently introduced in the U.S. market as a novel agent with both pediculicidal and ovicidal activity, approved in children 4 years of age and older for the treatment of head lice infestations. In clinical trials, it has demonstrated effectiveness against head lice with permethrin resistance. In two clinical trials comparing spinosad to permethrin, efficacy was observed in the spinosad-treated groups at 84.6% and 86.7%, respectively, when compared to the permethrin-treated groups (respective values of 44.9% and 42.9%; P < 0.001). Overall, spinosad was well tolerated in clinical trials.

Eficacia de la aplicación de ozono epidural y paravertebral a una concentración de 50 µg/ml en pacientes con dolor crónico secundario a síndrome postlaminectomía / No disponible

Introducción: el dolor crónico es una entidad que afecta a la salud física y psicológica de los pacientes. El síndrome postlaminectomía consiste en la aparición o persistencia de dolor lumbar y/o radicular en un paciente que ha tenido uno o más procedimientos quirúrgicos en la columna. Objetivo general: evaluar la efectividad de la administración de ozono epidural y paravertebral, a una concentración de 50 mg/ml, en pacientes con dolor crónico asociado a síndrome postlaminectomía lumbar. Material y métodos: durante el periodo comprendido entre el 15 de julio y el 30 de diciembre del 2010 se realizó un estudio prospectivo, en 30 pacientes de ambos géneros, con edades comprendidas entre los 18 y los 85 años de edad, que tenían un diagnóstico de dolor crónico secundario a síndrome postlaminectomia lumbar. La media de las EVAs iniciales fue 6,8 sobre 10. La primera infiltración se realizó bajo sedación endovenosa y con control fluoroscópico de la región lumbosacra; se administró vía caudal un volumen de 20 ml de ozono a una concentración de 50 mg/ml en el espacio epidural, y en la región muscular paravertebral lumbar bilateral (L3, L4 y L5) se administraron 10 ml de ozono a la misma concentración en cada nivel. En total, el volumen infiltrado fue de 60 ml. La infiltración en la región paravertebral se repitió, al mismo volumen y concentración, en intervalos de 7 días durante 3 semanas consecutivas. Para medir la efectividad del tratamiento se evaluó la intensidad del dolor considerando las medias inicial y final en la escala visual analógica (EVA). Como medida de la funcionalidad se usó el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry, que se registró previo a la infiltración y a las semanas 4 y 8. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el programa Statistical 7.0, aplicando el test de Friedman para las dos variables principales, y la estadística descriptiva (media y desviación estándar) para el análisis del resto de los datos. Se tomará como estadísticamente significativa p < 0,05. Resultados: se estudiaron 30 pacientes, todos ellos con dolor moderado (EVAs iniciales de 6,8 sobre 10). Las edades oscilaron entre 34 y 62 años con media y desviación estandar de 50,9 ± 7,2 años. Veintiún pacientes (70%) fueron mujeres y 9 (30%) fueron hombres. Estadísticamente se encontraron diferencias significativas en los valores medios de los índices de Oswestry (F = 10,9058, p = 0,000002) y en los de las EVAs (F = 43,3314, p < 0,01); sin embargo clínicamente no hubo cambios, pues los pacientes siguieron con valores incapacidad y dolor moderados. Conclusiones: la administración de ozono epidural y paravertebral, a concentración de 50 mg/ml, no resultó ser de utilidad en la reducción del dolor crónico y en la mejoría de la funcionalidad en pacientes con afectación moderada secundaria a síndrome postlaminectomía (AU)

Introduction: Chronic pain is a condition that affects the physical and psychological health of patients. Postlaminectomy syndrome is the onset or persistence of back pain and/or radicular pain in a patient who has had one or more surgical procedures on the spine. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the administration of epidural and paravertebral ozone at a concentration of 50 mg/ml in patients with chronic pain associated with lumbar postlaminectomy syndrome. Material and methods: Between July 15 and December 30 2010 a prospective study was carried in 30 patients of both gender, aged between 18 and 85 years, who had a diagnosis of chronic pain secondary to lumbar postlaminectomy syndrome. The average initial EVA score was 6.8/10. The first injection was performed with intravenous sedation under fluoroscopic control of the lumbosacral region; then was administered through a volume flow rate 20 ml of ozone at a concentration of 50 mg/ml in the epidural space and bilateral paravertebral muscles of the lumbar spine (L3, L4 and L5) with 10 ml of ozone at the same concentration at each level. In total, the infiltrated volume was 60 ml. The infiltration of the paravertebral region was repeated at the same volume and concentration, at intervals of 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks. To measure the effectiveness of treatment was evaluated pain intensity considering the average initial and final visual analogue scale (VAS). As measurement for functionality was used the Oswestry Disability Index, which was evaluated prior to infiltration and at 4 and 8 week. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical 7.0, using the Friedman test for the two main variables, and descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) for the analysis of other data. A p < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: We studied 30 patients, all with moderate pain (initial EVA 6.8/10). The ages ranged from 34 to 62 years with mean and standard deviation of 50.9 ± 7.2 years. 21 patients (70%) were female and 9 (30%) were men. Statistically significant differences were in the mean Oswestry indices (F = 10.9058, p = 0.000002) and those of the EVAs (F = 43.3314, p < 0.01) however there was no clinical change, as patients continue with moderate disability and pain. Conclusions: Epidural and paravertebral administration of ozone at a concentration of 50 mg/ml, did not prove to be useful in relieving chronic pain and improve functionality in patients with moderate pain secondary to postlaminectomy syndrome (AU)

Eficacia de la aplicación de ozono epidural y paravertebral a una concentración de 30 mg/ml para el manejo de dolor crónico en pacientes con síndrome de cirugía fallida de espalda / No disponible

Objetivo: determinar la eficacia de la infiltración de ozono epidural y paravertebral a una concentración de 30 mg/ml para el control del dolor crónico en pacientes con síndrome de cirugía fallida de espalda lumbar. Método: se realizó un ensayo clínico cuasi experimental, prospectivo, estudiando 30 pacientes con dolor crónico secundario a síndrome cirugía fallida de espalda, realizando un total de 4 infiltraciones con ozono; en la primera se infiltró 20 ml de ozono a una concentración de 30 mg/ml por vía epidural caudal y 10 ml de ozono a la misma concentración a nivel paravertebral lumbar en L3, L4 y L5 en forma bilateral, con un total de 60 ml paravertebral. Rea lizándose las siguientes infiltraciones cada semana únicamente en la región paravertebral. Se evaluó la calidad analgésica mediante la escala visual análoga y la funcionalidad por el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry, previo al procedimiento inicial, a la semana, 4 semanas y 2 meses. Resultados: de los 30 pacientes estudiados el 70% fueron mujeres (21) y 30% hombres (9). No se encontró mejoría en el alivio del dolor de acuerdo a la evaluación de la escala visual análoga, con un promedio inicial de 7,2 y un final de 7,4. Tampoco se encontró mejoría en la capacidad funcional evaluada mediante el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry, inicial de 63,47 y final de 64,37, ambos sin significancia estadística. Se presentaron como complicaciones: dolor a la aplicación 40% (12), aumento de discapacidad 13,33% (4) y cefalea 3% (1). Conclusión: el uso de ozono epidural y paravertebral a una concentración de 30 mg/ml, no es eficaz para el alivio del dolor crónico secundario a síndrome de cirugía fallida de espalda (AU)

Objective: to determine the efficacy of epidural and paravertebral infiltration of ozone at a concentration of 30 mg/ml for chronic pain control in patients with failled back surgery syndrome. Method: a quasi-experimental clinical trial, prospective study, in 30 patients with chronic pain secondary to lumbar post laminectomy syndrome, with a total of 4 injections of ozone, in the first procedure 20 ml infiltration of ozone at 30 mg/ml caudal epidural, in addition to infiltrate 10 ml of ozone at the same concentration paravertebral lumbar level at L3, L4 and L5 bilaterally, with a total of 60 ml muscular paravertebral. Performing the following injections each week for three weeks only in the muscular paravertebral region. Pain was assessed by visual analog scale and function by Oswestry Disability Index, following the initial procedure, a week, 4 weeks and 2 months. Results: with30 patients studied 70% were women (21) and 30% male (9). Not found improvement in pain relief according to the evaluation of the visual analog scale, with a starting average of 7.2 and a final 7.4, no statistical significance. In functional capacity evaluated by the Oswestry disability index, initial 63.47 and final 64.37, without a statistical significance. The complications were pain after to the application 40% (12),increased disability 13.33% (4) and headache 3% (1). Conclusion: the use of epidural and paravertebral ozone at a concentration of 30 mg/ml, is not effective for the relief of chronic pain secondary to post laminectomy syndrome (AU)

Eficacia del escitalopram en el manejo de la depresión leve o moderada en el paciente con dolor crónico oncológico / No disponible

Objetivo: valorar la eficacia antidepresiva del escitalopram en los pacientes con dolor crónico oncológico que cursen con depresión leve o moderada. Material y método: se realizó un ensayo clínico, cuasi experimental, prospectivo en 46 pacientes con dolor crónico oncológico con depresión leve o moderada en el Servicio de Clínica del Dolor del Centro Médico Nacional “20 de Noviembre” del ISSSTE en el periodo del 15 julio al 15 de octubre del 2010. Se determinó el grado de depresión mediante el inventario de Beck y confirmado el cuadro depresivo se inició tratamiento con escitalopram 10 mg vía oral cada 24 horas. Se realizó la valoración previa al tratamiento, a las 2 semanas de iniciado y por último en un intervalo de cada 7 días durante 3 semanas. Además se evaluó la disminución de la EVA durante todas las fases del estudio. Resultados: se estudiaron 46 pacientes, de los cuales fueron 25 femeninos y 21 masculinos. La edad de los pacientes osciló entre 24 a 74 años, con media de 53,9 ± 12,1 años. Se encontró adecuada eficacia antidepresiva al comparar la intensidad según el inventario de Beck inicial con el último control (p < 0.000001). Se encontró una disminución de la intensidad del dolor según la escala visual análoga al comparar la EVA inicial con el último control (p < 0.000001). Conclusiones: con este estudio se puede concluir que escitalopram es un medicamento eficaz en el control de la depresión leve o moderada asociada al dolor crónico oncológico. Adicionalmente se puede concluir que al controlar el episodio depresivo hubo disminución estadísticamente significativa en el dolor medido por la EVA (AU)

Objective: to evaluate the antidepressant efficacy of escitalopram in patients with chronic cancer pain that is accompanied by mild or moderate depression. Material and method: conducted a clinical trial, quasi-experimental, prospective, in 46 patients with chronic cancer pain with mild or moderate depression in the Department of Pain Clinic, National Medical Center “20 de Noviembre” ISSSTE in the period from 15 July to 15 October 2010. We determined the degree of depression using the Beck Depression Inventory and confirmed the depressive symptoms began treatment with escitalopram 10 mg orally every 24 hours. Assessment was performed before treatment, at 2 weeks and finally started at an interval of every 7 days for 3 weeks. In addition to evaluating the reduction of the VAS during all phases of the study. Results: we studied 46 patients who were 25 female and 21 male. The age of patients ranged from 24 to 74, with a mean of 53.9 ± 12.1 years. Adequate antidepressant efficacy was found when comparing the intensity according to the Beck inventory control start and end (p < 0.000001). There was a decrease in median Verbal Analog Scale pain scored EVA comparing start and end control (p < 0.000001). Conclusions: with this study we can conclude that a drug escitalopram effective in controlling mild to moderate depression associated with chronic cancer pain. It can be concluded that controlling the depressive episode was statistically significant reduction in pain measured by EVA (AU)

Metadona en el tratamiento del dolor crónico oncológico / No disponible

No disponible

Refractoriness to short and long days determines the end and onset of the breeding season in subtropical goats.

The objective was to determine whether refractoriness to short and long days were involved in the end and onset of the breeding season, respectively, in goats adapted to subtropical latitudes. Ovariectomized does given a subcutaneous implant constantly releasing estradiol-l7 ß (OVX+E) were used in two experiments. Plasma LH concentrations were determined twice weekly. In Experiment 1, the control group remained in an open-shed pen (natural day length and ambient temperature). Two experimental groups were placed in light-proof buildings (with natural temperature variations). One group was exposed to natural simulated increasing days (winter to spring), whereas the other was exposed to a winter solstice photoperiod (10 h of light) from December 21 to April 28. In Experiment 2, the control group remained under natural day length and ambient temperature. One experimental group was exposed to natural simulated decreasing days (summer to autumn), whereas the other group was exposed to a summer solstice photoperiod (14 h of light) from June 21 to October 20. In Experiment 1, the breeding season was not prolonged in does maintained in the winter solstice day length. Mean dates of decrease in LH secretion (end of the breeding season) did not differ significantly between does exposed to natural (February 3 ± 5 d) or natural simulated photoperiod (January 26 ± 14 d) and those exposed to constant short days of winter solstice (February 4 ± 10 d). In Experiment 2, the onset of the breeding season was not delayed in does maintained in the summer solstice day length. Mean dates of increase in LH secretion (onset of the breeding season) did not differ significantly between does exposed to natural (September 7 ± 8 d) or natural simulated photoperiod (September 18 ± 10 d) and those exposed to constant long days photoperiod of summer solstice (September 24 ± 4 d). In goats adapted to a subtropical environment, we concluded that: 1) the end of breeding season was due to refractoriness to short days, and not the inhibitory effect of increasing day length; and 2) the onset of the breeding season was due to refractoriness to long days, and not a stimulatory effect of decreasing day length.

Bomba de infusión intratecal implantable en pacientes con dolor crónico. Evaluación de la discapacidad y la calidad de vida / Implantable intrathecal infusion pump in patients with chronic pain: assessment of disability and quality of life

Introducción. La analgesia intratecal surge como una opción terapéutica para el alivio del dolor en pacientes con dolor crónico en quienes han fallado otras formas de tratamiento. El objetivo fue evaluar la discapacidad y la calidad de vida en pacientes con dolor crónico intratable. Material y métodos. Investigación retrospectiva, longitudinal y descriptiva, se incluyeron 27 pacientes, de ambos sexos, con edades entre 18 y 85 años, a quienes se les implantó una bomba de infusión intratecal, con un tiempo mínimo de 6 meses de colocación. Se evaluó la intensidad del dolor mediante la escala visual análoga (EVA), el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry (OW) y la calidad de vida con el Fast-Espiditest previo a la implantación y a los 6 meses. Resultados. El 65,38% presentaban dolor mixto, siendo el síndrome postlaminectomia el diagnostico etiológico más frecuente (51,8%). La EVA inicial fue 7,7±1 y la EVA final 2,07±1, lo cual fue estadísticamente significativa (p=0,00001). El OW inicial fue 61,2&%#x000B1;10,8 (discapacitado) y el OW final 20,2 &%#x000B1;8,7 (incapacidad mínima), con una significancia estadística de p=0,000006. El Fast-Espiditest inicial reportó dolor intenso en 4 pacientes, (14%), moderado en 21 pacientes (77%), leve en 2 pacientes (7,4%), y el Fast-Espiditest final, dolor intenso en 1 paciente (3,7%), moderado en 4 pacientes (14,8%), leve en 22 pacientes (81,4%). Conclusiones. La bomba de infusión intratecal es un dispositivo seguro y eficaz, logrando adecuado alivio del dolor en los pacientes con dolor crónico intratable, mejorando su funcionalidad y por lo tanto su calidad de vida (AU)

Introduction. Intrathecal analgesia has emerged as a therapeutic option for pain relief in patients with chronic pain in those where other forms of treatment have failed. The objective was to evaluate disability and the quality of life in patients with chronic intractable pain. Material and methods. Retrospective, longitudinal and descriptive study, including 27 patients of both sexes, aged 18–85 years, in whom an intrathecal infusion pump was implanted for at least 6 months. Pain intensity was measured using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the Oswestry disability index (ODI) and quality of life prior to the Fast-Espiditest implant and at six months. Results. A total of 65.38% had mixed pain, with post-laminectomy syndrome being the more frequent aetiological diagnosis (51.8%). The initial VAS score was 7.7±1 and at six-months it was 2.07±1, which was statistically significant (P=0.00001). The initial ODI was 61.2&%#x000B1;10.8 (Disabled) and the final ODW was 20.2&%#x000B1;8.7 (minimal disability), with a statistical significance of P=0.000006. The initial Fast-Espiditest showed intense pain in 4 patients, (14%), moderate in 21 patients (77%), and mild in 2 patients (7.4%), and the final Fast-Espiditest, intense pain in 1 patient (3.7%), moderate in 4 patients (14.8%), and mild in 22 patients (81.4%). Conclusions. The intrathecal infusion pump is a safe and effective device, which obtains an adequate alleviation of the pain in the patients with chronic intractable pain, improving their functionality and therefore their quality of life (AU)

Estimulación eléctrica medular en pacientes con dolor crónico: evaluación de la discapacidad y la calidad de vida / Spinal cord stimulation in patients with chronic pain: disability and quality of life evaluation

Introducción: La estimulación eléctrica medular (EEM) definitiva es un procedimiento para pacientes con dolor crónico de predominio neuropático. El objetivo fue analizar la respuesta a la EEM en el dolor y los índices de calidad de vida. Material y métodos: Se trata de un estudio de serie de pacientes retrospectiva, longitudinal y descriptiva, en el que se incluyó a 40 pacientes de ambos sexos, con edades entre los 18 y los 85 años, a los que se implantó un sistema de EEM. Se evaluó la intensidad del dolor mediante la escala visual analógica (EVA) previamente, al mes y a los 6 meses de implantado. Se aplicó el índice de discapacidad de Oswestry y el Fast-Espiditest previo a la implantación y a los 6 meses. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva, con prueba de ANOVA, para lo que se consideró como significativo un valor de p < 0,05. Resultados: El 88% de los pacientes tenía dolor neuropático, con diagnóstico etiológico de síndrome poslaminectomía (67,5%). La medición de la EVA basal fue 8,8 ± 1,1, al mes 3,5 ± 2,3 y a los 6 meses 3,9 ± 2,0 (p < 0,001). El índice de Oswestry inicial fue de 65,5 ± 8,5 y el final, de 43,8 ± 11,4 (p < 0,001). Con el Fast-Espiditest basal encontramos dentro de dolor moderado al 10% de los pacientes y con dolor intenso, al 90%, y a los 6 meses dentro de dolor leve, al 45%; dolor moderado, al 37,5%, y con dolor intenso, al 17,5%. (p < 0,001). Conclusiones: La EEM es una alternativa analgésica en el tratamiento del dolor crónico intenso de tipo neuropático, siendo una técnica segura y satisfactoria, la cual mejora la discapacidad y la calidad de vida, con complicaciones mínimas (AU)

Introduction: Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a procedure for patients with chronic intractable pain of neuropathic predominance. The objective was to evaluate the disability and quality of life in patients with SCS. Material and methods: A retrospective, descriptive and longitudinal research study with 40 male and female patients from 30 to 70 years of age with a SCS system. The intensity of pain was assessed by means of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), 1 month before and at 6 months after the implant. The Oswestry and the Fast-Espiditest disability indexes were used before and 6 months after the implantation. The statistical analysis of the results was performed using the ANOVA test using a p < 0.05 as significant. Results: A total of 88% of patients had neuropathic pain with an aetiological diagnosis of failed back surgery syndrome (67.5%). The baseline VAS score was 8.8 ± 1.1, at 1 month 3.5 ± 2.3 and 3.9 ± 2.0 at the 6th month (p < 0.001). The initial Oswestry Index was 65.5 ± 8.5 and the final one 43.8 ± 11.4 (p < 0.001). Using the Fast-Espiditest 10% of patients had moderate pain and 90% had intense pain at baseline. At 6 months 45% of patients had low pain, 37.5% moderate and 17.5% intense (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The SCS is an analgesic alternative for chronic intractable neuropathic pain management. It is a safe and successful technique, improving the disability and quality of life with minimum complications (AU)