Clinical response to prednisone in a severe case of infant-juvenile paracoccidioidomycosis.

BACKGROUND: Paracoccidioidomycosis is a neglected tropical disease caused by fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides. A wide range of symptoms is related to the disease; however, lungs and skin are the sites predominantly affected. The disease is mostly seen in people living in rural areas in Latin America. CASE REPORT: We present a pediatric case of severe disseminated paracoccidioidomycosis that slowly responded to the antifungal treatment. Within three months, symptoms evolved into hepatosplenomegaly, necrotic cervical and abdominal lymph nodes, and splenic abscess. Clinical response to amphotericin B deoxycholate and itraconazole was slow, resulting in pleural and peritoneal cavity effusions, heart failure and shock. Amphotericin B deoxycholate was replaced by the liposomal formulation, with no response. Subsequently, prednisone was added to the treatment, which led to improvement in the clinical response. Serological Paracoccidioides antibody titers were atypical, with very low titers in the critical phase and significant increase during the convalescence phase. The infection was finally cleared up with amphotericin B deoxycholate, liposomal amphotericin B and the use of corticosteroids. Paracoccidioidomycosis serology was non-reactive two years post-discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the intense inflammatory response triggered by Paracoccidioides cells, giving low-dose prednisone for a short period of time modulated the inflammatory response and supported antifungal treatment.

[COPD inhaled therapy narrative review]. / Revisión narrativa de la terapia inhalatoria en la EPOC.

The basis of COPD maintenance treatment is the long-acting bronchodilators and the inhaled corticosteroids. Faced with the recent modifications in the clinical practice guidelines, we have carried out a review of studies that contrast the various therapeutic alternatives and pharmacological agents within each category, with the fundamental purpose of shedding light on which of these options prove to be more effective. Triple therapy stands out as essential in poorly controlled patients or with an eosinophilic phenotype, surpassing dual therapy. However, among the combinations of LAMA/LABA or LAMA/LABA/IC, no drug is observed to be superior in the reviewed evidence. Although triple therapies include corticosteroids, there does not appear to be a significant increase in side effects or pneumonia. Regarding monotherapy with LAMA, no significant differences are seen between the drugs, but in dual therapy with LABA/IC, the budesonide/formoterol combination seems to offer better control than fluticasone/salmeterol.

Síndrome de Wells: presentación con un gran polimorfismo clínico

El síndrome de Wells es una afección dérmica que presenta un gran polimorfismo clínico. Es una patología autolimitada, recurrente y su origen es incierto. Reportamos el caso de una paciente de 29 años, procedente del área Central de Paraguay, comerciante, sin patología de base que consultó por edema de manos y piel. El tratamiento indicado fue corticoide vía oral y desparasitación con buena evolución y sin recidivas.

Wells syndrome is a dermal condition with a high clinical polymorphism. It is a self-limited, recurrent pathology and its origin is uncertain. We report the case of a 29-year-old female patient from the central area of Paraguay, a shopkeeper, with no underlying pathology, who consulted for hand and skin edema. The indicated treatment was oral corticosteroid and deworming with good evolution and no recurrences.

Etapa subaguda de pos-COVID-19 grave o crítico. Rehabilitación musculoesquelética, respiratoria y uso de corticoides. Experiencia de la Unidad de Rehabilitación del Hospital del Banco de Seguros del Estado (URHBSE)

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Introduction: In patients with severe or critical COVID-19, the use of prednisone and musculoskeletal and respiratory rehabilitation has been described. The role of these interventions and the optimal time for their initiation are not clearly established. This study presents the results of the Rehabilitation Unit of the Banco de Seguro del Estado Hospital, which implemented a comprehensive rehabilitation program and the use of corticosteroids in the subacute stage of patients with severe or critical post-COVID-19, with a systematic approach, working interdisciplinary and centered on the person being treated. Findings at admission, oxygen requirement, Barthel scale, tomographic patterns, use of corticosteroids, their response, and complications are reported. The results of this approach on clinical, respiratory, and functional variables are described. Method: Descriptive, retrospective study of post-COVID-19 patients who completed rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Unit of the Banco de Seguros del Estado Hospital (URHBSE) in the period April-August 2021. Data obtained from review of medical records, statistical analysis with PRISM (v8.2.1). Results: Eighty-four patients completed the rehabilitation program. Upon admission to the URHBSE, 55% had total or severe dependence on the Barthel scale. Forty-eight percent were unable to walk. Eighty-nine-point two percent required oxygen, with a mean saturation of 90.3 ± 4.8. Twenty-five percent of patients were admitted requiring a reservoir mask. All patients who entered the program were in the subacute phase of the disease (4 to 12 weeks) and received a comprehensive and individualized rehabilitation plan. The objective was to achieve a functional situation similar to what they had before COVID-19. The length of stay at the URHBSE was 23.5 ± 13.8 days. A total of 76 patients (90.5%) underwent high-resolution chest tomography (HRCT), which was pathological in 96.1% of cases. The predominant findings were ground-glass opacity in 49.3% of cases, consolidation in 8.23%, and a fibrosis-like pattern in 30.13%. "Non-typical" post-COVID damage tomographic alterations were detected (pleural effusion, cavitary nodules, apical cavities, etc.) in 11.8% of the tomographies. In 2 patients (2.6%), pulmonary aspergillosis was found, and in 6.6%, pulmonary thromboembolism. Forty-four patients (52.3%) received prednisone. In 63.4% of cases, oxygen supplementation was discontinued within the first 15 days from the start of prednisone. We found an association between the ground-glass opacity tomographic pattern and early discontinuation of oxygen supplementation from the start of prednisone (p = 0.047). Despite the high degree of colonization, we did not observe infections by colonizing microorganisms, even in those who used prednisone. Comparing admission and discharge, statistically significant differences were found in the following parameters: degree of dyspnea, oxygen requirement (only one patient was discharged with oxygen), saturation, degree of instrumentation (tracheostomy, nasogastric tube, etc.), and the Barthel dependency scale. Regarding respiratory variables, we only have data on the presence of dyspnea in the first 35 patients. Of these, 83% had dyspnea at admission, while only 17% had it at discharge (p < 0.0001). There were also significant differences in the oxygen requirement between admission and discharge (p < 0.0001) and in the degree of dependency measured on the Barthel scale. Fifty-five percent of patients had total or severe dependence at admission, compared to only 3.4% at discharge. Conclusions: The interventions carried out in the subacute stage of the disease were associated with significant improvements in clinical variables of interest. More studies are needed to define the role and the exact timing of the initiation of corticosteroids and rehabilitation in this group of patients.

Introdução: O uso de prednisona e reabilitação musculoesquelética e respiratória foi descrito no tratamento de pacientes com COVID-19 grave ou crítico. O papel destas intervenções e o momento ideal para o seu início não estão claramente estabelecidos. Este trabalho mostra os resultados da Unidade de Reabilitação Hospitalar do Banco de Seguro del Estado que implementou um programa abrangente de reabilitação e uso de corticosteroides na fase subaguda de pacientes graves ou críticos pós-COVID-19, com uma abordagem sistematizada, trabalhando de forma interdisciplinar e centrada no paciente. São relatados os achados na admissão, a necessidade de oxigênio, a escala de Barthel, os padrões tomográficos, o uso de corticosteroides, a resposta ao tratamento e as complicações. Os resultados desta abordagem sobre variáveis clínicas, respiratórias e funcionais são descritos. Material e métodos: Estudo descritivo e retrospectivo de pacientes pós-COVID-19 que completaram reabilitação na Unidade de Reabilitação do Hospital Banco de Seguros del Estado (URHBSE) no período de abril a agosto de 2021. Os dados foram obtidos dos prontuários de pacientes com posterior análise estatísticas usando PRISM (v8.2.1). Resultados: 84 pacientes completaram o programa de reabilitação. No momento da admissão na URHBSE, 55% apresentavam dependência total ou grave da escala de Barthel. 48% não conseguiam se mover. 89,2% necessitaram oxigênio com saturação média de 90,3 ± 4,8. 25% dos pacientes foram internados necessitando máscara com reservatório. Todos os pacientes que ingressaram no programa estavam na fase subaguda da doença (4 a 12 semanas) e receberam um plano de reabilitação abrangente e individualizado. O objetivo era alcançar uma situação funcional semelhante à que apresentavam antes da COVID-19. O tempo de permanência na URHBSE foi de 23,5±13,8 dias. A tomografia de tórax de alta resolução (TCAR) foi realizada em 76 pacientes (90,5%); os resultados foram patológicos em 96,1%. O vidro fosco predominou em 49,3% deles, a consolidação em 8,23% e o padrão fibroso em 30,13%. Alterações tomográficas "atípicas" de danos pós-COVID (derrame pleural, nódulos cavitados, cavidades apicais, etc.) foram detectadas em 11,8% dos exames tomográficos. Aspergilose pulmonar foi encontrada em 2,6% dos pacientes e tromboembolismo pulmonar em 6,6%. 44 pacientes (52,3%) receberam prednisona. Em 63,4% a oferta de oxigênio foi suspensa nos primeiros 15 dias após o início da mesma. Encontramos associação entre o padrão tomográfico em vidro fosco e a suspensão precoce da oferta de oxigênio desde o início da administração da prednisona (p = 0,047). Apesar do alto grau de colonização, mesmo naqueles que usaram prednisona, não observamos infecções. Em relação às variáveis respiratórias, só temos dados sobre a presença de dispneia nos primeiros 35 pacientes; destes, 83% apresentavam dispneia na admissão, enquanto apenas 17% a apresentavam na alta (p< 0,0001). Observou-se também diferenças significativas na necessidade de O2 entre a admissão e a alta (p< 0,0001) e no grau de dependência medido pela escala de Barthel, com 55% dos pacientes apresentando dependência total ou grave na admissão e apenas 3,4% na alta. Conclusões: As intervenções realizadas na fase subaguda da doença foram associadas a melhorias significativas nas variáveis de interesse clínico. São necessários mais estudos para definir o papel e o momento exato do início dos corticosteroides e da reabilitação neste grupo de pacientes.

Protocolo de tratamiento del edema macular quístico asociado a retinosis pigmentaria y otras distrofias hereditarias de la retina / Protocol for the treatment of cystoid macular edema secondary to retinitis pigmentosa and other inherited retinal dystrophies

Las distrofias hereditarias de la retina (DHR) son la causa principal de ceguera legal en la población laboral. El edema macular quístico (EMQ) es una de las causas tratables de pérdida visual afectando hasta un 50% de los pacientes. Se ha realizado una revisión bibliográfica combinando «inherited retinal dystrophy», «retinitis pigmentosa», «macular oedema» y un protocolo diagnóstico/terapéutico según los niveles de evidencia y recomendaciones de la «US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality». Este protocolo se ha discutido en las reuniones mensuales del grupo XAREA DHR con la participación de más de 25 profesionales, creando un documento de consenso. La etiología del EMQ es multifactorial: disfunción de la barrera hematorretiniana, del epitelio pigmentario de la retina y de las células de Müller, inflamación y tracción vítrea. La OCT es la prueba de elección para el diagnóstico y seguimiento del EMQ asociado a las DHR. Los fármacos con mayor grado de evidencia científica son los inhibidores de la anhidrasa carbónica (IAC). Los corticoides, anti-VEGF intravítreos y vitrectomía con pelado de la membrana limitante interna no disponen de suficiente evidencia. Se propone un esquema de tratamiento en el EMQ en las DHR en adultos, otro para pacientes pediátricos y otra en las DHR y cirugía de catarata. Los IAC orales y tópicos son efectivos en el tratamiento del EMQ secundario a las DHR. El tratamiento con corticoides, anti-VEGF y vitrectomía son opciones de segunda línea. Se requieren ensayos clínicos aleatorizados para poder establecer la escala terapéutica en estos pacientes.(AU)

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRD) are the leading cause of legal blindness in the working population. Cystic macular edema (CME) is one of the treatable causes of visual loss, affecting up to 50% of the patients. A bibliographic review has been carried out combining “inherited retinal dystrophy”, “retinitis pigmentosa”, “macular edema” and a diagnostic-therapeutic protocol according to the levels of evidence and recommendations of the “US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality”. This protocol has been discussed in the monthly meetings of the XAREA DHR group with the participation of more than 25 experts, creating a consensus document. The etiology of CME is multifactorial: dysfunction of the blood-retinal barrier, retinal pigment epithelium, and Müller cells, inflammation, and vitreous traction.OCT is the test of choice for the diagnosis and follow-up of CME associated with IRD. The drugs with the highest degree of scientific evidence are carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (IAC). Intravitreal corticosteroids, anti-VEGF, and vitrectomy with peeling of the internal limiting membrane do not have sufficient evidence. A treatment scheme is proposed for the CME in IRD in adults, another for pediatric patients and an another for IRD and cataract surgery. Oral and topical IACs are effective in the treatment of CME secondary to IRD. Treatment with corticosteroids, anti-VEGF, and vitrectomy are second-line options. Randomized clinical trials are required to establish the therapeutic scale in these patients.(AU)

Are corticosteroids safe in adolescent and adult patients with infectious mononucleosis? A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The use of systemic corticosteroids during Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced infectious mononucleosis is a controversial but widespread practice. We aimed to investigate the frequency of complications in adolescents and adults with infectious mononucleosis in relation to the use of corticosteroids. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical records of 396 patients admitted to the hospital with infectious mononucleosis (52.0% male; median age, 19 years; range, 15-87 years), with a focus on both short-term (infectious and non-infectious) and long-term (hematological malignancies) complications in relation to corticosteroid use. RESULTS: A total of 155 (38.6%) patients received corticosteroids at some point during infectious mononucleosis. Corticosteroid use was significantly (P≤0.002) associated with sore throat, lymphadenopathy, leukocytosis, and with antibiotics use (mainly indicated after suspicion of tonsillar bacterial superinfection). Overall, 139/155 (89.7%) patients who were treated with corticosteroids also received antibiotics either before or during hospitalization, compared with 168/241 (69.7%) patients who did not. The frequency of short-term severe complications, either infectious (peritonsillar-parapharyngeal abscess or bacteremia) or non-infectious (splenic rupture, severe thrombocytopenia, myopericarditis, or lymphocytic meningitis) were similar in patients receiving and not receiving corticosteroids. After a median of 15 years of follow-up, only one Hodgkin's lymphoma was diagnosed, in a patient who was not treated with corticosteroids during infectious mononucleosis. CONCLUSIONS: The use of systemic corticosteroids during EBV-induced infectious mononucleosis is generally safe, at least with concomitant antibiotic therapy. However, this should not encourage the use of corticosteroids in this context, given that their efficacy has yet to be demonstrated.

[Paradoxical tuberculosis reaction]. / Réaction paradoxale tuberculeuse.

Paradoxical tuberculosis reaction is defined as the aggravation of lesions present at diagnosis or the development of new lesions under anti-tuberculosis treatment, after exclusion of other alternate causes. It affects 5 to 30% of tuberculosis patients, with a variable prevalence depending on the site of infection and the clinical background. The diagnosis of paradoxical reaction is one of elimination, and requires having ruled out therapeutic failure, notably linked to poor compliance and/or to the presence of mycobacterial antibiotic resistance. The severity of paradoxical tuberculosis reaction lies in its neurological impairment. Despite its clinical importance, the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood and its management is not consensual. Corticosteroids are the cornerstone in the medical management. The role of anti-TNF agents, currently proposed in cases of corticodependence or corticoresistance, remains to be properly defined.

Protocol for the treatment of cystoid macular edema secondary to retinitis pigmentosa and other inherited retinal dystrophies.

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRD) are the leading cause of legal blindness in the working population. Cystic macular edema (CME) is one of the treatable causes of visual loss, affecting up to 50% of the patients. A bibliographic review has been carried out combining "inherited retinal dystrophy", "retinitis pigmentosa", "macular oedema" and a diagnostic-therapeutic protocol according to the levels of evidence and recommendations of the "US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality". This protocol has been discussed in the monthly meetings of the XAREA DHR group with the participation of more than 25 ophthalmologists, creating a consensus document. The etiology of CME is multifactorial: dysfunction of the blood-retinal barrier, retinal pigment epithelium, and Müller cells, inflammation, and vitreous traction. OCT is the test of choice for the diagnosis and follow-up of CME associated with IRD. The drugs with the highest degree of scientific evidence are carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (IAC). Intravitreal corticosteroids, anti-VEGF, and vitrectomy with peeling of the internal limiting membrane do not have sufficient evidence. A treatment scheme is proposed for the CME in IRD in adults, another for pediatric patients and another for IRD and cataract surgery. Oral and topical IACs are effective in the treatment of CME secondary to IRD. Treatment with corticosteroids, anti-VEGF, and vitrectomy are second-line options. Randomized clinical trials are required to establish the therapeutic scale in these patients.

Optimización del tratamiento de la colitis ulcerosa leve a moderada: Consenso Delphi CU-Forum / Optimizing treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis: CU-forum Delphi consensus

Antecedentes y objetivo: Las guías clínicas de colitis ulcerosa (CU) recogen la mejor evidencia disponible, aunque no todas las situaciones clínicas quedan respondidas, por lo que su manejo puede ser motivo de controversia. El objetivo de este estudio es identificar las situaciones de la CU leve a moderada susceptibles de controversia y evaluar el grado de acuerdo o desacuerdo a propuestas concretas. Métodos: Mediante reuniones de debate de expertos en enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) se identificaron criterios, actitudes y opiniones respecto al manejo de la CU. A continuación se elaboró un cuestionario Delphi con 60 aseveraciones relativas a antibióticos, salicilatos y probióticos, corticoides locales, sistémicos y tópicos e inmunosupresores. Resultados: Se alcanzó consenso en 44 aseveraciones (73,3%); 32 en el acuerdo (53,3%) y 12 en el desacuerdo (20,0%). Algunos de ellos fueron: no es necesario el uso sistemático de antibióticos a pesar de la gravedad del brote, quedando reservados ante la sospecha de infección o toxicidad sistémica; ante un brote leve-moderado de CU y en pacientes que no responden a aminosalicilatos es adecuado utilizar una dosis de beclometasona de 10mg/día durante un mes y 5mg/día durante otro mes; se aconseja que la dosis de azatioprina se administre en una única dosis. Conclusiones: Los expertos en EII coinciden en la mayoría de las propuestas identificadas para manejar la CU leve a moderada y se constata la necesidad de evidencia científica en algunas situaciones concretas en las que conocer la opinión de expertos puede resultar de ayuda. (AU)

Background and objective: Ulcerative colitis (UC) clinical guidelines include the best available evidence, although not all clinical situations are answered, so their management can be controversial. The aim of this study is to identify the situations of mild to moderate UC susceptible to controversy and to evaluate the degree of agreement or disagreement with specific proposals. Methods: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) expert discussion meetings were used to identify criteria, attitudes and opinions regarding the management of UC. A Delphi questionnaire was then developed with 60 items regarding antibiotics, salicylates and probiotics; local, systemic and topical corticosteroids; and immunosuppressants. Results: Consensus was reached in 44 statements (73.3%); 32 in agreement (53.3%) and 12 in disagreement (20.0%). Some of them were: it is not necessary the systematic use of antibiotics despite the severity of the outbreak, being reserved when there is suspicion of infection or systemic toxicity; when faced with a mild-moderate outbreak of UC and in patients who do not respond to aminosalicylates, it is appropriate to use a dose of beclomethasone of 10mg/day for one month and 5mg/day for another month; it is advised that the dose of azathioprine be administered in a single dose. Conclusions: IBD experts agree on most of the proposals identified for managing mild to moderate UC and there is a need for scientific evidence in some specific situations where expert opinion may be helpful. (AU)

Traquioniquia, ¿de qué se trata? / Trachyonychia, what is it about?

La traquioniquia es una afección ungueal de diagnóstico clínico y buen pronóstico, pero se ha de tener en cuenta que bajo su apariencia pueden subyacer otras enfermedades. Antes de plantear su tratamiento, es necesario valorar cómo afecta a la calidad de vida de los pacientes, ya que tiende a la resolución espontánea. (AU)

Trachyonychia is a nail disorder with good prognosis which diagnosis is clinical but, under this condition could be other diseases. So, before treatment it is necessary to ascertain how it affects patient´s quality of life as spontaneous resolution is possible. (AU)

Corticoides en la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal: ¿siguen siendo una opción terapéutica? / Corticosteroids in inflammatory bowel disease: Are they still a therapeutic option?

A pesar del desarrollo y de la incorporación de nuevas estrategias terapéuticas, como son la terapia biológica y las moléculas pequeñas, los corticoides aún cumplen un papel importante en la inducción de la remisión de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII). Variables como la indicación en el momento apropiado, la dosis correcta, la duración en intervalos adecuados, la seguridad de estos fármacos y las alternativas farmacológicas disponibles deben ser siempre consideradas por el equipo tratante al momento de su indicación en pacientes con EII. Aunque el uso de corticoides es considerado un marcador de calidad de atención en pacientes con EII, en la actualidad el uso de estos fármacos en la práctica clínica de la EII dista mucho de ser el más correcto. Este artículo de revisión no pretende ser solamente una revisión clásica de las indicaciones de los corticoides, sino que explicamos aquí los escenarios en los que en nuestra opinión no serían una opción adecuada para nuestros pacientes, así como los errores más frecuentes que cometemos en nuestra práctica clínica diaria al utilizarlos. (AU)

Despite the development and incorporation of new therapeutic strategies, such as biologic therapy and small molecules, corticosteroids still play an important role in inducting inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) remission. Variables like indicating the right doses at the right time, in adequate intervals, the security of these drugs and the pharmacological alternatives available must be considered by the providers when they are indicated to patients with IBD. Although the use of corticosteroids is considered as a marker of quality of care in patients with IBD, the use of these drugs in the clinical practice of IBD is far from being the correct one. This review article is not intended to be just a classic review of the indications for corticosteroids. Here we explain the scenarios in which, in our opinion, steroids would not be an appropriate option for our patients, as well as the most frequent mistakes we make in our daily practice when using them. (AU)

Vasculitis pauciinmune asociada a lupus eritematoso sistémico: a propósito de un caso

Introducción: la poliangeítis microscópica (PAM) hace parte del grupo de vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anticitoplasmáticos de neutrófilos (ANCA), cuya presencia de anticuerpos contra mieloperoxidasa (MPO) se observa en la mayoría de los casos (70-95 %), asimismo, el compromiso renal presagia mayores tasas de morbilidad y mortalidad, sin embargo, la coexistencia con lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) es poco frecuente y con mayor énfasis en la variante de LES del adulto mayor o de inicio tardío. Objetivo: dar a conocer un caso poco común de dos enfermedades autoinmunes, lo cual ha sido reportado como síndrome de superposición y brindar información útil que permita ampliar los diagnósticos diferenciales. Presentación del caso: se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino de 76 años con historia de poliartralgias progresivas en deterioro del estado general, con debut en síndrome confusional agudo, caída de filtrado glomerular, microhematuria y proteinuria casi nefrótica. A la evaluación inicial se encontró anemia y trombocitopenia severa, en perfil inmune ANA 1/320 y complemento consumido, cumpliendo criterios para LES, ANCA reactivo específicamente MPO ANCA (1/320) y sospecha de glomerulonefritis con patrón rápidamente progresivo (GNRP). Dado el contexto clínico, se decidió comenzar con pulsos de metilprednisolona consecutivos, seguidos de prednisolona oral y, como terapia de mantenimiento, se instauró ciclofosfamida. Finalmente, con una biopsia renal se confirmó el diagnóstico de vasculitis sistémica pauciinmune con formación de crescencia celular. La evolución clínica del paciente fue satisfactoria, logrando la estabilización de órganos y la normalización de la función renal, hematopoyética y el estado neurológico. Discusión y conclusión: dado que la presentación clínica de LES es heterogénea, se ha reportado su asociación con vasculitis, las cuales comparten un compromiso común de órganos como articulaciones, piel y riñones. Los hallazgos paraclínicos, como por biopsia, fueron consistentes tanto con PAM como con LES, por lo tanto, se diagnosticó como un caso de superposición. Este caso demuestra el enigma del diagnóstico y la complejidad en el manejo de entidades poco frecuentes, de etiologías inmunológicas superpuestas que ponen en peligro la vida de quien la(s) padece, de no tener un diagnóstico oportuno y un tratamiento temprano.

Introduction: Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is part of the group of vasculitis associated with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), whose presence of antibodies against myeloperoxidase (MPO) is observed in most cases (70-95 %), likewise, the renal compromise portends higher rates of morbidity and mortality. However, coexistence with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is infrequent, and with greater emphasis on the older adult or late-onset variant of SLE (1). Purpose: Present a rare case of two autoimmune diseases, which has been reported as overlapping syndrome and provide useful information that allows expanding differential diagnoses. Case report: We present the case of a 76-year-old male patient with a history of progressive polyarthralgias in deteriorating general condition, with debut in acute confusional syndrome, drop in glomerular filtration rate, microhematuria and almost nephrotic proteinuria. At the initial evaluation anemia and severe thrombocytopenia were found, in the immune profile ANA 1/320, complement consumed; fulfilling criteria for SLE, ANCAs reactive specifically MPO ANCA (1/320) and suspected Rapidly Progressive Renal Insufficiency (PRRI). Given the clinical context, it was decided to start consecutive pulses of methylprednisolone followed by oral prednisolone, and cyclophosphamide was established as maintenance therapy. Finally, a renal biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of pauci-immune systemic vasculitis with cell crescent formation. These findings were consistent with both SLE and PAM, thus it was diagnosed as a case of overlap. The clinical evolution of the patient was satisfactory, achieving organ stabilization and normalization of renal function, hematopoietic function, and neurological status. Discussion and conclusion: RPGN associated with ANCA present non-nephrotic proteinuria, glomerular filtration rate drop. The most common is anti-glomerular basement membrane (AMBG) antibodies. Serological detection of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, PR3 and MPO should be available. Microscopic polyangiitis could be determined by renal biopsy, with the presence of cell growth, absence of immune deposits and MPO ANCA positivity. This case is a diagnostic enigma, and the complexity in the management of rare entities, of immunological etiology, superimposed that endanger the life of those who suffer from it, if they do not have a timely diagnosis and early treatment.

Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis associated with COVID-19: Course changes and prognosis predictors / Rinosinusitis fúngica invasiva asociada con COVID-19: cambios clínicos y predictores de pronóstico

Background This study aimed to analyze the behavior of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS) associated with COVID-19 infection as there has been an increase in the rate of AIFRS cases in the last two years, and many reports connected this rising with the COVID-19 infection. We studied most factors that may impact the prognosis as a trial to find the most affecting factors to improve the outcomes. Methods It was a retrospective observational study that included cases from four tertiary referral institutions between November 2020 to February 2022. We included sixty-six patients who suffered from AIFRS associated with confirmed COVID-19. We observed the prognosis of all included patients with a six-month follow-up. We correlated the prognosis with many factors, such as demographic data, medical conditions, blood investigations, the features of fungal infections, and management. Results Forty-two patients (64%) survived after the AIFRS associated with COVID-19, and twenty-two patients (36%) died. High doses of corticosteroids with prolonged use were the main factors that affected the behavior of the AIFRS associated with COVID-19. HbA1c was a good predictor of the prognosis; a level less than 9.35% may indicate survival with 87.5% sensitivity. Conclusions According to this multi-center study, the mortality of the AIFRS associated with COVID-19 was high. The behavior was affected by glycemic control, the type of fungal species, and the type of antifungal therapy. Early surgical debridement, a combination of Amphotericin B with Voriconazole, and anticoagulants helped improve the prognosis. (AU)

Antecedentes Durante el periodo de la pandemia de COVID19, ha habido un aumento en la tasa de casos de rinosinusitis fúngica invasiva aguda (RSFIA), siendo cada vez más evidente la asociación entre ambas entidades. EL objetivo de este estudio ha sido analizar la evolución de los pacientes con rinosinusitis fúngica invasiva aguda asociado con la infección por COVID-19, analizando los factores determinantes en la evolución y pronóstico de la enfermedad. Métodos Fue un estudio observacional retrospectivo que incluyó casos de cuatro instituciones de referencia de tercer nivel entre noviembre de 2020 y febrero de 2022. Se incluyeron sesenta y seis pacientes que padecían RSFIA asociado a COVID-19 confirmado. Observamos el pronóstico de todos los pacientes incluidos con un seguimiento de seis meses. Correlacionamos el pronóstico con muchos factores, como los datos demográficos, las condiciones médicas, las investigaciones de sangre, las características de las infecciones fúngicas y el manejo. Resultados Cuarenta y dos pacientes (64%) sobrevivieron después de la RSFIA asociada a COVID-19, y veintidós pacientes (36%) fallecieron. Las dosis altas de corticoides con uso prolongado fueron los principales factores que afectaron el comportamiento de la RSFIA asociada a la COVID-19. HbA1c fue un buen predictor del pronóstico; un nivel inferior al 9,35 % puede indicar supervivencia con una sensibilidad del 87.5%. Conclusiones Según este estudio multicéntrico, la mortalidad de la RSFIA asociada a la COVID-19 fue alta. El comportamiento se vio afectado por el control glucémico, el tipo de especie fúngica y el tipo de terapia antifúngica. El desbridamiento quirúrgico temprano, una combinación de Amphotericin B con Voriconazole y anticoagulantes ayudaron a mejorar el pronóstico. (AU)

Corticoides inhalados como factor de riesgo de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad en enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica

Objetivo: Determinar si el uso de corticoides inhalados es factor de riesgo de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica en el Hospital Víctor Lazarte Echegaray durante el período 2017-2020. Métodos: El estudio fue analítico, observacional, retrospectivo de casos y controles no emparejados a razón de 4:1, con una población de 405 sujetos; se seleccionaron 81 casos y 324 controles, quienes cumplieron los criterios de selección. Se realizó un muestro no probabilístico. Se incluyeron las variables, uso de corticoides inhalados, pacientes con neumonía adquirida en la comunidad, edad, sexo, desnutrición y tabaquismo. La medida de asociación se hizo utilizando la prueba no paramétrica Chi Cuadrado de Pearson y la prueba exacta de Fisher en frecuencias menores de 5. El análisis bivariado y multivariado se realizó mediante regresión logística múltiple con significancia estadística (valor p 0,05). Conclusión: El uso de corticoides inhalados no es factor de riesgo de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica.

Objective: To determine if the use of inhaled corticosteroids is a risk factor for community-acquired pneumonia in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease at the Víctor Lazarte Echegaray Hospital during the period 2017-2020. Methods: The study was analytical, observational, retrospective of cases and unmatched controls in a ratio of 4:, with a population of 405 subjects from whom 81 cases and 324 controls were selected, who met the selection criteria. A non-probabilistic sampling was carried out. The variables, use of inhaled corticosteroids, patients with community-acquired pneumonia, age, sex, malnutrition and smoking were included. The association was measured using Pearson's non-parametric Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test at lower frequencies less than 5. The bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression with statistical significance (p value 0.05). Conclusion: The use of inhaled corticosteroids is not a risk factor for community-acquired pneumonia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Reduction of disease activity, corticosteroids use, and healthcare resource utilisation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab in clinical practice settings: OBSErve Spain multicentre study / Reducción de la actividad de la enfermedad, el uso de corticosteroides y recursos sanitarios en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico tratados con belimumab en práctica clínica real: estudio multicéntrico OBSErve España

Introduction and objectives: This OBSErve Spain study, a part of the international OBSErve programme, evaluated belimumab real-world use and effectiveness following 6 months of treatment in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in clinical practice in Spain. Materials and methods: In this retrospective, observational study (GSK Study 200883), eligible patients with SLE receiving intravenous belimumab (10mg/kg) had their disease activity (physician assessed), SELENA-SLEDAI scores, corticosteroid use, and healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU), assessed after 6 months of treatment versus index (belimumab initiation) or 6 months pre-index. Results: Overall, 64 patients initiated belimumab, mainly due to ineffectiveness of previous treatments (78.1%) and to reduce corticosteroid use (57.8%). Following 6 months of treatment, 73.4% of patients achieved ≥20% overall clinical improvement, while only 3.1% of patients worsened. Mean (standard deviation, SD) SELENA-SLEDAI score decreased from 10.1 (6.2) at index to 4.5 (3.7) 6 months post-index. HCRU decreased from 6 months pre-index to 6 months post-index, with fewer hospitalisations (10.9% vs 4.7% patients) and ER visits (23.4% vs 9.4% patients). Mean (SD) corticosteroid dose decreased from 14.5 (12.5)mg/day at index to 6.4 (5.1)mg/day 6 months post-index. Conclusions: Patients with SLE receiving belimumab for 6 months in real-world clinical practice in Spain experienced clinical improvements and a reduction in HCRU and corticosteroid dose.(AU)

Introducción y objetivos: El estudio OBSErve España, que forma parte del programa internacional OBSErve, evaluó el uso y la eficacia de belimumab en la práctica clínica real española tras seis meses de tratamiento en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) activo. Materiales y métodos: En este estudio observacional y retrospectivo (GSK Study 200883) fue evaluada la respuesta clínica, la actividad de la enfermedad (puntuación SELENA-SLEDAI), el uso de corticosteroides y los recursos sanitarios utilizados de los pacientes con LES que recibieron belimumab intravenoso (10mg/kg), al inicio y tras seis meses de tratamiento. Resultados: En total 64 pacientes iniciaron belimumab, principalmente por ineficacia de los tratamientos previos (78,1%) y para reducir los corticoides (57,8%). Después de seis meses de tratamiento, 73,4% de los pacientes lograron una mejoría clínica general de ≥20%, mientras que solo 3,1% de los pacientes empeoró. La puntuación media (desviación estándar, DE) de SELENA-SLEDAI disminuyó de 10,1 (6,2) a 4,5 (3,7). Los recursos sanitarios utilizados disminuyeron con menos hospitalizaciones (10,9 vs. 4,7%) y visitas a urgencias (23,4 vs. 9,4%). La dosis media (DE) de corticosteroides disminuyó de 14,5 (12,5mg/día) a 6,4 (5,1mg/día). Conclusiones: Los pacientes con LES que recibieron belimumab durante seis meses en la práctica clínica real en España experimentaron mejoras clínicas y una reducción de la dosis de corticosteroides y recursos sanitarios utilizados.(AU)

Reduction of disease activity, corticosteroids use, and healthcare resource utilisation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab in clinical practice settings: OBSErve Spain multicentre study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: This OBSErve Spain study, a part of the international OBSErve programme, evaluated belimumab real-world use and effectiveness following 6 months of treatment in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in clinical practice in Spain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective, observational study (GSK Study 200883), eligible patients with SLE receiving intravenous belimumab (10mg/kg) had their disease activity (physician assessed), SELENA-SLEDAI scores, corticosteroid use, and healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU), assessed after 6 months of treatment versus index (belimumab initiation) or 6 months pre-index. RESULTS: Overall, 64 patients initiated belimumab, mainly due to ineffectiveness of previous treatments (78.1%) and to reduce corticosteroid use (57.8%). Following 6 months of treatment, 73.4% of patients achieved ≥20% overall clinical improvement, while only 3.1% of patients worsened. Mean (standard deviation, SD) SELENA-SLEDAI score decreased from 10.1 (6.2) at index to 4.5 (3.7) 6 months post-index. HCRU decreased from 6 months pre-index to 6 months post-index, with fewer hospitalisations (10.9% vs 4.7% patients) and ER visits (23.4% vs 9.4% patients). Mean (SD) corticosteroid dose decreased from 14.5 (12.5)mg/day at index to 6.4 (5.1)mg/day 6 months post-index. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with SLE receiving belimumab for 6 months in real-world clinical practice in Spain experienced clinical improvements and a reduction in HCRU and corticosteroid dose.

[Hospitalization for infection in patients treated for giant cell arteritis: A single-centre retrospective study]. / Hospitalisation pour infection chez les patients suivis pour une artérite à cellules géantes : étude monocentrique rétrospective.

INTRODUCTION: Infections are associated with morbimortality of patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA). The aim of this work was twofold: the identification of factors predisposing to the risk of infection and the description of patients hospitalized with an infection occurring during the treatment period of CAG. METHODS: A monocentric retrospective study was conducted in GCA patients, comparing patients hospitalized for infection with patients without infection. The analysis included 21/144 (14.6%) patients with 26 infections (cases) and 42 control matched on sex, age, and diagnosis of GCA. RESULTS: Both groups were similar except for a higher frequency of seritis in cases (15% vs. 0%, p=0.03). Relapses of GCA were less common in cases (23.8% vs 50.0%, p=0.041). Hypogammaglobulinemia was present during infection. More than half of the infections (53.8%) occurred in the first year of follow-up with an average dose of 15mg/day of corticosteroids. Infections were mainly pulmonary (46.2%) and cutaneous (26.9%). CONCLUSION: Factors associated with infectious risk were identified. This preliminary monocentric work will continue with a national multicentre study.

Impacto de los corticoides sistémicos en el tiempo de hospitalización en pacientes con COVID-19 / Impact of systemic corticosteroids on length of hospitalization among patients with COVID-19

Objetivo: la COVID-19 supuso una amenaza para la capacidad hospitalaria por el elevado número de ingresos, lo que llevó al desarrollo de diversas estrategias para liberar y crear nuevas camas hospitalarias. Dada la importancia de los corticoides sistémicos en esta enfermedad, se evaluó la eficacia de estos en la reducción de la duración de la estancia hospitalaria (EH) y se comparó el efecto de 3 corticosteroides diferentes sobre este resultado.Métodose realizó un estudio de vida real de diseño tipo cohorte retrospectiva y controlado. Se analizó una base de datos hospitalaria de 3.934 pacientes hospitalizados con diagnóstico de COVID-19 en un hospital terciario entre abril y mayo de 2020. Se comparó un grupo de enfermos que recibieron corticosteroides sistémicos (grupo con corticoides [GC]) frente a un grupo control que no recibió corticosteroides sistémicos (grupo sin corticoides [GSC]) emparejado por edad, sexo y gravedad de la enfermedad mediante una puntuación de propensión. La decisión de prescribir glucocorticoides dependía principalmente del criterio del médico responsable.Resultadosse compararon un total de 199 pacientes hospitalizados en el GC con 199 en el GSC. La EH fue más corta para el GC que para el GSC (mediana=3 [rango intercuartílico=0-10] vs. 5 [2-8,5]; p=0,005, respectivamente), mostrando un 43% más de probabilidad de ser hospitalizado ≤4 días que >4 días cuando se usaron corticosteroides. Además, esta diferencia solo la mostraron aquellos tratados con dexametasona (76,3% hospitalizados ≤4 días vs. 23,7% hospitalizados >4 días [p<0,001]). Los niveles de ferritina sérica, glóbulos blancos y plaquetas fueron más elevados en el GC. No se observaron diferencias en la mortalidad ni en el ingreso a la unidad de cuidados intensivos. (AU)

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a threat to hospital capacity due to the high number of admissions, which has led to the development of various strategies to release and create new hospital beds. Due to the importance of systemic corticosteroids in this disease, we assessed their efficacy in reducing the length of stay (LOS) in hospitals and compared the effect of 3 different corticosteroids on this outcome.MéthodWe conducted a real-world, controlled, retrospective cohort study that analysed data from a hospital database that included 3934 hospitalised patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in a tertiary hospital from April to May 2020. Hospitalised patients who received systemic corticosteroids (CG) were compared with a propensity score control group matched by age, sex and severity of disease who did not receive systemic corticosteroids (NCG). The decision to prescribe CG was at the discretion of the primary medical team.ResultsA total of 199 hospitalized patients in the CG were compared with 199 in the NCG. The LOS was shorter for the CG than for the NCG (median=3 [interquartile range=0–10] vs. 5 [2–8.5]; p=0.005, respectively), showing a 43% greater probability of being hospitalised ≤4 days than >4 days when corticosteroids were used. Moreover, this difference was only noticed in those treated with dexamethasone (76.3% hospitalised ≤4 days vs. 23.7% hospitalised >4 days [p<0.001]). Serum ferritin levels, white blood cells and platelet counts were higher in the CG. No differences in mortality or intensive care unit admission were observed.ConclusionsTreatment with systemic corticosteroids is associated with reduced LOS in hospitalised patients diagnosed with COVID-19. This association is significant in those treated with dexamethasone, but no for methylprednisolone and prednisone. (AU)