El Signo del halo es característico de la aspergilosis pulmonar, y más en un paciente inmuodeprimido. Pero no es patognomónico, también se ha asociado a TBC, algunas neoplasias y la granulomatosis de Wegener.

Un paciente inmunodeficiente que presenta en la radiografía de tórax/TC una neumonía con el signo del halo menisco o contorno semilunar sugiere infección por:

[Not Available].

Introducción: la nutrición parenteral domiciliaria se ha convertido en un punto clave en el tratamiento de pacientes con fracaso intestinal crónico. A pesar de los importantes avances que se han producido en las últimas décadas, tanto en los accesos vasculares, como en las soluciones empleadas, las infecciones asociadas a catéter venoso central siguen constituyendo una de las complicaciones más importantes. Dentro de las estrategias para la prevención o el tratamiento de estas infecciones se encuentra el empleo de sellados con antisépticos, como el etanol o la taurolidina, o de antibióticos.Objetivo: el objetivo de este artículo es revisar la evidencia disponible sobre el empleo de sellados con antisépticos o antibióticos en el manejo de pacientes pediátricos con nutrición parenteral domiciliaria.Material y métodos: el uso de sellados con etanol o taurolidina para prevenir el desarrollo de infecciones asociadas a catéter central estaría indicado en pacientes con nutrición parenteral domiciliaria que hayan tenido más de una infección en el año anterior o que se consideren pacientes de riesgo. Los sellados con antibióticos están indicados en el tratamiento de bacteriemias asociadas a catéter central producidas por S. coagulasa-negativo o gramnegativos, asociados a un tratamiento sistémico, siempre que sea posible, con el fin de salvar el catéter. Se debería llevar a cabo la retirada del mismo cuando existan signos de infección del punto de entrada o del trayecto subcutáneo, o cuando el germen responsable de la infección sea S. aureus o Cándida.Conclusión: a pesar de que la fuerza de la evidencia sobre la eficacia del sellado en la prevención o el tratamiento de infecciones asociadas al catéter es limitada, tanto en el niño como en el adulto, cada vez existen más datos a usar esta alternativa en pacientes con nutrición parenteral domiciliaria en los que la atención y salvaguarda de los catéteres es primordial.

[Pulmonary cavitation lesions in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus: an analysis of a series of 78 cases].

To assess the clinical, radiologic and microbiological features of lung cavitation and HIV infection. Evaluation of the differences related to this disease in the last years. Retrospective review of all patients with lung cavitation and HIV infection admitted at our hospital from January 1989 until December 1994 and prospective study of all patients with the same characteristics during 1995 and 1996. Lung cavitation was defined as any parenchymal lesion, with air content, visible in a simple X-ray and greater than 1 cm of diameter. Criteria for confirmed, probable or possible diagnosis were defined. 78 cases of lung cavitation have been identified in 73 patients. The radiologic patterns included unilobar and multilobular involvement in 31 and 47 cases, respectively. Cavities were multiple and single in 40 and 38 cases respectively. Findings with fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) were diagnostic in 11 out of 14 cases. A clinical diagnosis was performed in all 78 cases, with microbiological results in 69 cases (88.5%): Mycobacterium tuberculosis in 20, Pneumocystis carinii in nine, Pseudomonas aeruginosa in nine, Staphylococcus aureus in eight (5 endocarditis with cavitary septic emboli), Rhodococcus equi in six, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in three, Salmonella enteritidis in three, Cryptococcus neoformans in two, Aspergillus fumigatus in two and others in 7 cases. Confirmed, probable and possible diagnosis was considered in 54, 15 and 9 cases, respectively. Thirteen episodes of spontaneous pneumothorax were found. The lung cavitation rate is low, compared with the number of admissions related to HIV infection; nevertheless, many of them are in close relationship with HIV infection, and most of them are caused by treatable infections. It is important to know the clinical and radiological characteristics, in order to establish an early diagnosis and an appropriate therapy. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is becoming an important cause of lung cavitation. In our series, spontaneous pneumo-thorax was not related to Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in 61.5% of cases.

Natural SARS-CoV- 2 infection in domestic cats and dogs of humans diagnosed with COVID-19 in Valle de Aburrá, Antioquia

Introducción. El síndrome respiratorio agudo grave causado por el nuevo coronavirus SARSCoV-2 es causa de la emergencia sanitaria por la pandemia de COVID-19. Si bien el humano es el el principal huésped vulnerable, en estudios experimentales y reportes de infección natural, se han encontrado casos de zoonosis inversa de SARS-CoV-2 en animales. Evaluar la infección natural por SARS-CoV-2 en gatos y perros de propietarios con diagnóstico de COVID-19 en el Valle de Aburrá, Antioquia, Colombia. Materiales y métodos. La circulación del SARS-CoV-2 se evaluó por RT-qPCR y RT-PCR en muestras de frotis nasofaríngeos y orofaríngeos de gatos y perros cuyos propietarios se encontraban dentro del periodo de los 14 días de aislamiento. Los casos positivos se verificaron amplificando fragmentos de los genes RdRp, N y E; se secuenció el gen RdRp y se analizó filogenéticamente. De 80 animales evaluados, seis gatos y tres perros fueron casos confirmados de infección natural por SARS-CoV-2. Los animales no presentaron signos clínicos y sus propietarios, que padecían la infección, reportaron únicamente signos leves de la enfermedad sin complicaciones clínicas. En el análisis de una de las secuencias, se encontró un polimorfismo de un solo nucleótido (SNP) con un cambio en la posición 647, con sustitución del aminoácido serina (S) por una isoleucina (I). Los casos se presentaron en los municipios de Caldas, Medellín y Envigado. Se infiere que la infección natural en los gatos y perros se asocia al contacto directo con un paciente con COVID-19. No obstante, no es posible determinar la virulencia del virus en este huésped, ni su capacidad de transmisión  zoonótica o entre especie.

[Infectious pneumopathies in immunodepressed patients. Value of the study of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid].

During a period of 16 months 26 fluid specimens obtained by broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) in 24 immunocompromised patients were examined. This material included 13 HIV positive patients and 11 patients presenting malignant hemopathies (MH), of whom 7 had had a blood marrow transplantation. The BAL fluid was divided into two equal parts, one of which was sent to the Institute of Pathology and the other to the Laboratory of Bacteriology of Geneva University Hospital. In some cases a transbronchial biopsy was also studied. Eight out of 13 HIV positive patients presented a Pneumocystis carinii infection and one a cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (associated with atypical mycobacteria infection). In another case streptococcal pneumonia was observed. In 3 patients, analysis of the BAL fluid failed to yield a diagnosis. In the 11 patients with MH, 2 cases of CMV, 2 infections with Candida albicans and one with Aspergillus fumigatus were found. In 2 patients the pneumopathy was due to bacterial infection. Four BAL fluids failed to yield a diagnosis; however, in one of these transbronchial biopsy revealed interstitial pneumonia of unknown origin. On the basis of our material and comparison with clinica, radiological and serological data, it appears that BAL fluid analysis is a helpful and rapid diagnostic aid in infectious pneumopathies of immunocompromised patients. This is especially true of AIDS patients in whom the most common pulmonary complication is Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. However, success of the analysis requires close cooperation between clinician, bacteriologist and pathologist.

[Reconstrucción ósea de defectos craneales secundarios a traumatismo con implantes personalizados].

Los defectos craneales secundarios a traumatismos son frecuentes. Por lo común se reparan de forma secundaria por sintomatología como el síndrome del paciente trepanado, por protección cerebral y por el aspecto cosmético. Históricamente se han utilizado diversos materiales para la reconstrucción. Se presentan cinco casos de pacientes reconstruidos con implantes personalizados de polieteretercetona (PEEK) o polimetilmetacrilato poroso (PMMA). Las localizaciones afectaron el frontal, el borde orbitario superior y el techo orbitario en cuatro casos, y la porción lateral del frontal, la zona temporoparietal y el borde del occipital en un caso. La reconstrucción en cuatro pacientes fue entre 6 y 12 meses después de la lesión, y en un caso después de 25 años. En dos casos se requirió expansión tisular antes de colocar el implante. Cuatro pacientes evolucionaron favorablemente, con mejoría de los síntomas neurológicos, forma y contorno adecuados, así como un proceso de cicatrización adecuada de los colgajos de piel cabelluda. Un paciente presentó infección por Staphylococcus aureus, atribuida a la presencia de un mucocele y una fístula de la vía aérea a la cavidad craneal, lo que hizo necesario retirar el implante. Los implantes personalizados son un recurso útil para defectos óseos craneales. Brindan resultados satisfactorios desde el punto de vista funcional y cosmético. Deben tomarse precauciones respecto al tratamiento de las lesiones que afecten el seno frontal, para evitar la comunicación entre la vía aérea y la cavidad craneal. Cranial defects due to trauma are frequent. They are usually repaired in a secondary fashion due to features such as syndrome of the trephined, for brain protection and for cosmetic purposes. Historically, various materials have been used for reconstruction. Five cases of patients reconstructed with customized polyetheretherketone (PEEK) o polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) implants are presented. Defects involved the frontal bone, superior orbital rim and orbital roof in four cases, and the lateral area of the frontal bone, the temporoparietal area and the border of the occipital bone in one. In four patients, reconstruction took place between 6 and 12 months after the injury; in one patient, after 25 years. Two cases required tissue expansion before placing the implant. Four patients evolved favorably, with improvement in neurologic symptoms and adequate shape and contour, plus adequate healing of the scalp flaps. One patient had an infection due to Staphylococcus aureus, attributed to a mucocele and fistula between the airway and the cranial cavity, leading to removal of the implant. Customized implants are a useful resource for cranial defects. They offer satisfactory results, both functional and cosmetic. Precautions should be taken in treating injuries that involve the frontal sinus, to ensure there is no communication between the airway and the cranial cavity.

[Cancer, febrile neutropenia and pulmonary images: Findings in bronchoalveolar lavage in children].

Lung infections are a serious complication in children with cancer. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) has been demonstrated to be an effective procedure for achieving etiologic diagnosis. We did a retrospective analysis of BAL data performed between November 2005 and October 2008 in children with cancer, severe neutropenia and lung infiltrates for assessing its performance, clinical utility and safety. Thirty-seven BAL were evaluated in 35 patients. Focal infiltrates were demonstrated in imaging studies associated with 19/37 BAL; in 8 an infectious agent was found. Interstitial pattern was observed in 15/37, in which there were 4 positive studies, proving a higher microbiological performance in BAL associated with focal lesions. BAL yielded significant microbiological findings in 32.4% (12/37). Sixteen microorganisms were identified in the study: bacteria in 8 cases, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (n: 2), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n: 2), Acinetobacter baumannii (n: 1), A. Iwoffii (n: 1), group viridans Streptococcus (n: 1), Mycoplasma pneumoniae (n: 1); viruses in 3 cases, metapneumovirus (n: 2) cytomegalovirus (n: 1) and fungal infection in 5 cases, Pneumocystis jiroveci (n: 2) Aspergillus fumigatus (n: 1), Aspergillus niger (n: 1), Candida albicans (n: 1). Therapeutic adjustments were done in 6/37 episodes (16.2%). BAL has a significant role in the evaluation of pulmonary infiltrates in pediatric oncological patients, requiring a prompt and safe diagnosis, which is crucial for the survival with minimal morbidity. Our results suggest that BAL by fiberbronchoscopy should be considered as an initial diagnostic tool in these patients.

Assessment of the Risk and Economic Burden of Surgical Site Infection Following Colorectal Surgery Using a US Longitudinal Database: Is There a Role for Innovative Antimicrobial Wound Closure Technology to Reduce the Risk of Infection?

Colorectal surgical procedures place substantial burden on health care systems because of the high complication risk, of surgical site infections in particular. The risk of surgical site infection after colorectal surgery is one of the highest of any surgical specialty. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence, cost of infections after colorectal surgery, and potential economic benefit of using antimicrobial wound closure to improve patient outcomes. Retrospective observational cohort analysis and probabilistic cost analysis were performed. The analysis utilized a database for colorectal patients in the United States between 2014 and 2018. A total of 107,665 patients who underwent colorectal surgery were included in the analysis. Rate of infection was together with identified between 3 and 180 days postoperatively, infection risk factors, infection costs over 24 months postoperatively by payer type (commercial payers and Medicare), and potential costs avoided per patient by using an evidence-based innovative wound closure technology. Surgical site infections were diagnosed postoperatively in 23.9% of patients (4.0% superficial incisional and 19.9% deep incisional/organ space). Risk factors significantly increased risk of deep incisional/organ-space infection and included several patient comorbidities, age, payer type, and admission type. After 12 months, adjusted increased costs associated with infections ranged from $36,429 to $144,809 for commercial payers and $17,551 to $102,280 for Medicare, depending on surgical site infection type. Adjusted incremental costs continued to increase over a 24-month study period for both payers. Use of antimicrobial wound closure for colorectal surgery is projected to significantly reduce median payer costs by $809 to $1170 per patient compared with traditional wound closure. The inherent biases associated with retrospective databases limited this study. Surgical site infection cost burden was found to be higher than previously reported, with payer costs escalating over a 24-month postoperative period. Cost analysis results for adopting antimicrobial wound closure aligns with previous evidence-based studies, suggesting a fiscal benefit for its use as a component of a comprehensive evidence-based surgical care bundle for reducing the risk of infection. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B358. EVALUACIÓN DEL RIESGO Y LA CARGA ECONÓMICA DE LA INFECCIÓN DEL SITIO QUIRÚRGICO DESPUÉS DE UNA CIRUGÍA COLORRECTAL UTILIZANDO UNA BASE DE DATOS LONGITUDINAL DE EE.UU.: ¿EXISTE UN PAPEL PARA LA TECNOLOGÍA INNOVADORA DE CIERRE DE HERIDAS ANTIMICROBIANAS PARA REDUCIR EL RIESGO DE INFECCIÓN?: Los procedimientos quirúrgicos colorrectales suponen una carga considerable para los sistemas de salud debido al alto riesgo de complicaciones, particularmente las infecciones del sitio quirúrgico. El riesgo de infección posoperatoria del sitio quirúrgico colorrectal es uno de los más altos de cualquier especialidad quirúrgica.El propósito de este estudio fue determinar la incidencia, el costo de las infecciones después de la cirugía colorrectal y el beneficio económico potencial del uso del cierre de la herida con antimicrobianos para mejorar los resultados de los pacientes.Análisis retrospectivo de cohorte observacional y análisis de costo probabilístico.El análisis utilizó la base de datos para pacientes colorrectales en los Estados Unidos entre 2014 y 2018.Un total de 107,665 pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal.Se identificó una tasa de infección entre 3 y 180 días después de la operación, los factores de riesgo de infección, los costos de infección durante 24 meses posteriores a la operación por tipo de pagador (pagadores comerciales y Medicare), y los costos potenciales evitados por paciente utilizando una tecnología innovadora de cierre de heridas basada en evidencias.Infecciones del sitio quirúrgico, diagnosticadas postoperatoriamente en el 23,9% de los pacientes (4,0% incisional superficial y 19,9% incisional profunda / espacio orgánico). Los factores de riesgo aumentaron significativamente el riesgo de infección profunda por incisión / espacio orgánico e incluyeron comorbilidades selectivas del paciente, edad, tipo de pagador y tipo de admisión. Después de 12 meses, el aumento de los costos asociados con las infecciones varió de $ 36,429 a $ 144,809 para los pagadores comerciales y de $ 17,551 a $ 102,280 para Medicare, según el tipo de infección del sitio quirúrgico. Los costos incrementales ajustados continuaron aumentando durante un período de estudio de 24 meses para ambos pagadores. Se prevé que el uso del cierre antimicrobiano de la herida para la cirugía colorrectal reducirá significativamente los costos medios del pagador en $ 809- $ 1,170 por paciente en comparación con el cierre tradicional de la herida.Los sesgos inherentes asociados a las bases de datos retrospectivas limitaron este estudio.Se encontró que la carga del costo de la infección del sitio quirúrgico es mayor que la reportada previamente, y los costos del pagador aumentaron durante un período postoperatorio de 24 meses. Los resultados del análisis de costos para la adopción del cierre de heridas antimicrobianas se alinean con estudios previos basados en evidencia, lo que sugiere un beneficio fiscal para su uso como componente de un paquete integral de atención quirúrgica basada en evidencia para reducir el riesgo de infección. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B358.

[Frequency of pulmonary mycoses determined by analyzing lung secretion samples].

The frequency of pulmonary mycoses has increased in the past few years specially in immunocompromised patients. To determine the frequency of invasive fungal diseases by analyzing lung secretion samples. Samples of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) tracheal aspiration (TA) and induced sputum (IS) were obtained from patients of five hospitals in the Valparaíso Region for the diagnosis of invasive or non-invasive fungal disease, and pneumocystis (PCP), in the period 2007-2010. Clinical data of patients was obtained reviewing medical records or interviewing attending physicians. The diagnosis considered the clinical condition of the patient (immunocompromised or prior lung damage), computed tomography imaging, direct microscopy and cultures. European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) criteria was used for the diagnosis of invasive fungal diseases. Ninety respiratory samples were received and 39 fungal infections were diagnosed. Eleven were probably invasive, seven were non-invasive and 21 were PCP. All patients with probable invasive disease had neutropenia. Most patients with non-invasive infections had bronchiectasis. Aspergillus fumigatus was the main causing agent in both invasive and non-invasive fungal diseases. Patients with PCP were mostly adults with AIDS and children with leukemia. The total mortality rate of patients with invasive fungal disease was of 73%. No deaths were recorded among patients with non-invasive disease. Among patients with PCP, three of 11 HIV and six of 10 non HIV subjects died. Aspergillus fumigatus predominates both in invasive and non-invasive pulmonary mycoses. The former has a high mortality. PCP occurred mainly in adult patients with HIV-AIDS.

Hemorrhagic stroke associated to COVID-19 infection in Mexico General Hospital.

en la actual pandemia de COVID-19, existe evidencia creciente que ha identificado el neurotropismo del virus SARS-CoV-2 y sus complicaciones neurológicas, incluida la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica y escasamente hemorragia cerebral (HC). describir las características clínicas, radiológicas, de laboratorio y pronósticas de los pacientes con HC asociada al SARS-CoV-2. se incluyeron pacientes consecutivos con prueba de PCR confirmatoria para infección por SARS-CoV-2 y HC. en un período de 90 días, en un centro de referencia COVID-19 en México, de 1108 pacientes con infección por SARS-CoV-2, se encontraron 4 pacientes (0.36%) con HC. Tenían una edad de 71(±12.2) años, 2 eran mujeres. Se encontró que dos tenían factores de riesgo cardiovascular previos. En dos casos se encontró el origen en el núcleo dentado mientras que los otros dos correspondieron al tálamo. Tres de los cuatro pacientes murieron. Postulamos que el descontrol hipertensivo, coagulopatía, trombocitopenia y la respuesta inmune inducida por el virus SARS-CoV-2 podrían desencadenar HC en un paciente con riesgo previo. la HC se asocia a la infección por SARS-CoV-2 con mal pronóstico cuando se presenta. Los equipos de neurocirugía deben estar preparados para el tratamiento oportuno de estos pacientes. In the current COVID-19 pandemic, there is a growing body of evidence that has identified the neurotropism of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its neurological complications, including cerebrovascular disease, focusing mainly in ischemic and scarcely about hemorrhagic stroke (HS). The objective of the study was to describe clinical, radiological, laboratory tests, and prognostic characteristics of patients with SARS-CoV-2 associated HS. Consecutive patients with a confirmatory PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 infection and a HS demonstrated by head CT were included in the study. Over a period of 90 days, in a COVID-19 reference center in Mexico, out of a total of 1108 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, it found 4 patients (0.36%) who meet criteria. They had an age of 71 (±12.2) years, 2 were women. It was found that two had prior cardiovascular risk factors. Two of the HS originated in the dentate nucleus while the other two corresponded to the thalamus. Three of the four patients died. We suggest that catastrophic uncontrolled blood pressure, coagulopathy, thrombocytopenia, and immune response induced by SARS-CoV-2 could in a specific patient trigger HS. HS is associated to SARS-CoV-2 infection with poor prognosis when it presented. Neurosurgery teams should prepare for the timely and appropriate treatment of this patients.

[Slow-resolution pneumonia: radiologic and tomodensitometric features].

To assess the radiologic findings of unresolving pneumonias (radiologic signs not normalized at the end of the fourth week of antibiotic therapy), the radiologic (192) and CT examinations (33) of 50 patients were reviewed, for a total of 64 pulmonary parenchymal lesions. These lesions presented as masses (3; 4.6%), parenchymal thickenings with aerial bronchogram (41; 63.7%), sometimes escavated (4; 10%), alveolar ground glass alterations (4; 6.2%), more frequent on the right side (49; 73%), mostly in the upper lobe (21; 32.8%). Pleural effusion was demonstrated in 16 patients (32%) and lymphadenopathies were shown in 8 patients (8%). When possible, the responsible germ was isolated with microbiological expectoration test (14; 35.3%), bronchoscopy associated with bronchoalveolar lavage (7; 37.5%) and needle biopsy in the mass (2; 5%). The germs were Candida (9), haemophilus influentiae (1), Klebsiella (1), pneumococcus (1), Pseudomonas (3), Staphylococcus aureus (4), streptococcus alpha hemoliticus (6). There are no typical radiologic and CT findings for the described lesions in different-patients and different germs can produce the same changes. Therefore, pulmonary inflammations must be followed to their complete resolution, to rule out the chance of a neoplastic process (obstructive pneumonia). The first radiologic control must be made at least 15 days after the beginning of therapy for the anatomo-pathologic processes of recovery to show radiographically. CT can be fundamental in the differential diagnosis with neoplasm, in unresolving pneumonia, to study the tracheobronchial tree, to study lymphadenopathies and to guide needle biopsy.

Introducción. El citomegalovirus es la causa más frecuente de infección en pacientes con trasplante renal. Existen dos estrategias de similar efectividad para prevenirlo: la profilaxis universal con valganciclovir durante 90 días o el tratamiento anticipado verificando la carga viral semanal y aplicándolo solo si esta es positiva.Objetivo. Determinar cuál de estas dos estrategias sería más costo-efectiva en pacientes de riesgo intermedio en Colombia.Materiales y métodos. Se diseñó un árbol de decisiones bajo la perspectiva del tercer pagador considerando únicamente los costos médicos directos en pesos colombianos (COP) del 2014 durante un periodo de un año en una población de pacientes con riesgo intermedio para citomegalovirus (donante positivo y receptor positivo, o donante negativo y receptor positivo). Las probabilidades de transición se extrajeron de los estudios clínicos y se validaron con expertos mediante el método Delphi.Los costos de los procedimientos se basaron en el manual tarifario ISS 2001, con un incremento del 33 % a partir del índice de precios al consumidor (IPC) en salud de 2014, en tanto que los de los medicamentos se extrajeron de las circulares del Ministerio de Salud y del Sistema de Información de Medicamentos (Sismed).Resultados. La profilaxis universal con valganciclovir resultó ser menos costosa y se asoció con una menor probabilidad de infección. El costo promedio del primer año de tratamiento anticipado sería de COP$ 30'961.290, mientras que el universal sería de COP$ 29'967.834, es decir, un costo 'incremental' de COP$ 993.456.Conclusiones. Para los pacientes de riesgo intermedio con trasplante renal en Colombia, la profilaxis universal es la mejor estrategia por ser menos costosa y reducir el riesgo de infección.

[Lung infections in acquired immunodeficiency. Clinico-radiologic correlations].

Over the last decade the number of subjects with acquired immunodeficiencies has markedly increased; this phenomenon depends on both the large number of patients receiving organ transplants or antiblastic therapy and the spread of infections caused by the HIV virus. In 70-90% of these patients primary diseases include different pulmonary infections, relative to the type and degree of immune compromission. Pathogenic or, in most cases, opportunistic germs are responsible for severe pneumonia whose mortality rate can top 50%. Since prognosis depends on the promptness of treatment, the diagnosis of nature must be made quickly by integrating clinical and diagnostic findings with laboratory and instrumental results. Conventional chest radiology plays a major role as the first step in a diagnostic iter which can now include rather sensitive techniques--e.g., equalized chest films. CT and nuclear medicine often represent the necessary diagnostic complements but, in some cases, etiology can be diagnosed only with such invasive procedures as lung biopsy. The authors reviewed the current data on the diagnostic imaging findings of pulmonary infections caused by common germs, by Pneumocystis carinii mycobacteria, mycetes and viruses in immunocompromised patients, integrating their personal experience with literature data.

[Multidisciplinary management with neuromuscular electrical stimulation therapy in a Goldenhar syndrome patient who presented swallowing disorder and failure to thrive.]

El síndrome de Goldenhar es un trastorno heterogéneo, esporádico en su mayoría o por patrón de herencia autosómico dominante o recesivo, de la morfogénesis craneofacial asociada al primero y segundo arcos faríngeos, y forma parte del espectro oculoauriculovertebral. La incidencia es de 1 por cada 3500-45,000 recién nacidos vivos, con una razón de sexo masculino/femenino de 3:2. Se presenta el caso de un recién nacido con fenotipo de síndrome oculoauriculovertebral. Se abordó con radiografía de tórax, ecografía abdominal y tamizaje metabólico y auditivo, que reportaron hemivértebra torácica, fusión costal, quiste renal e hipoacusia bilateral profunda, respectivamente. Fue alimentado con lactancia mixta desde el nacimiento, sin lograr una succión adecuada y con pérdida de peso. A los 3 meses de edad recibió terapia de rehabilitación oral con electroestimulación en conjunto de 10 sesiones con 10 mA de intensidad, al igual que a los 23, 24, 25, 27, 30 y 32 meses de edad. A los 4 meses, espesamiento de fórmula con cereal; a los 7 meses, sonda de gastrostomía; a los 20 meses, cirugía de paladar y macrostomía. Mostró mejoría en intensidad de babeo en las primeras 10 sesiones y mejoría en la deglución a las 30 sesiones. A los 3 años de edad consume el 100% de los alimentos por vía oral. Con la escasa evidencia científica que este caso aislado aporta, el tratamiento con la terapia de rehabilitación en conjunto con la terapia convencional y la corrección anatómica dio resultados positivos para el trastorno de la deglución. Goldenhar syndrome is a heterogeneous disorder, mostly sporadic or due to a dominant autosomal or recessive pattern of inheritance, that exhibits craniofacial morphogenesis associated with the first and second pharyngeal arches and is part of the oculoauriculovertebral spectrum. Its incidence is of 1 in 3,500-45,000 live newborns, with a male to female ratio of 3:2. We describe the case of a male newborn with oculoauriculovertebral syndrome phenotype. It was approached with chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, metabolic and hearing screening, which reported thoracic hemivertebra, costal fusion, renal cyst, and profound bilateral hypoacusis, respectively. Although the newborn was fed with mixed lactation from birth, adequate suction and with weight loss were not achieved. At 3 months of age, as well as at 23, 24, 25, 27, 30 and 32 months of age, the infant received oral rehabilitation therapy with electrostimulation in a set of 10 sessions with 10 mA intensity. At 4 months, thickening of formula with cereal; at 7 months, gastrostomy tube; at 20 months, palate surgery and macrostomy. Improvement in drooling intensity was observed during the first 10 sessions, and improvement in swallowing after 30 sessions. At 3 years of age, the patient consumes 100% of food orally. According to limited scientific evidence that this isolated case provides, rehabilitation therapy together with conventional therapy coupled with anatomical correction gave positive results for swallowing disorder.

[Usefulness of bronchoalveolar lavage in the renal transplant patient with suspected respiratory infection].

In this retrospective study we aimed to assess the diagnostic yield of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in kidney transplant patients who were suspected of having severe respiratory infection or in whom empirical antibiotic treatment had failed. All BAL procedures performed on kidney transplanted patients suspected of having respiratory infections between January 1, 1988 and July 31, 1996 were analyzed. BAL was carried out in the standard way and samples were sent for cytologic and bacteriologic study. Thirty-three patients with a mean age of 48.5 years were enrolled. All had been receiving immunosuppressive treatment and the mean time following transplantation was 320 days. Thirty-one had received antibiotic treatment before BAL. BAL was positive for 21 of the 33 patients (64%). Twenty-two pathogens were identified: 6 Pneumocystis carinii, 4 Cytomegalovirus, 3 Mycobacterium tuberculosis, 2 Aspergillus fumigatus, 2 Herpes simplex type I, 1 Streptococcus pneumoniae, 1 Staphylococcus aureus, 1 Streptococcus mitis, 1 Legionella pneumophila, 1 Legionella longbeachae. BAL was negative for 12 patients, of whom 8 were tentatively diagnosed of bacterial infection, 3 of acute pulmonary edema and one of pulmonary infarction. Based on the results, therapy was changed for 20 patients (61%), 19 (58%) because an unsuspected pathogen was identified and 1 because treatment could be simplified. The diagnostic yield of BAL is high (64%) in kidney transplant patients suspected of respiratory infection and is useful for managing such cases, as evidenced by the fact that a high proportion (19/33) of our patients were infected by pathogens not covered by empirical treatment.

Predicting Anastomotic Leak After Elective Colectomy: Utility of a Modified Frailty Index.

Anastomotic leak is the most dreaded complication following colonic resection. While patient frailty is increasingly being recognized as a risk factor for surgical morbidity and mortality, the current colorectal body of literature has not assessed the relationship between frailty and anastomotic leak. Evaluate the relationship between patient frailty and anastomotic leak as well as patient frailty and failure to rescue in patients who experienced an anastomotic leak. Retrospective cohort study. American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database from 2015 to 2017. Patients with the diagnosis of colonic neoplasia undergoing an elective colectomy during the study time period. Anastomotic leak, failure to rescue. A total of 30,180 elective colectomies for neoplasia were identified. The leak rate was 2.9% (n = 880). Compared to nonfrail patients, frail patients were at increased odds of anastomotic leak (frailty score = 1: OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.10-1.63; frailty score = 2: OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.04-1.68; frailty score = 3: OR = 2.41, 95% CI 1.47-3.96). After an anastomotic leak, compared to nonfrail patient, a greater proportion of frail patients experienced mortality (3.4% vs 5.9%), septic shock (16.1% vs 21.0%), myocardial infarction (1.1% vs 2.9%), and pneumonia (6.8% vs 11.8%). Furthermore, the odds of mortality, septic shock, myocardial infarction, and pneumonia increased in frail patients with higher frailty scores. Potential misclassification bias from lack of a strict definition of anastomotic leak and retrospective design of the study. Frail patients undergoing colectomy for colonic neoplasia are at increased risk of an anastomotic leak. Furthermore, once a leak occurs, they are more vulnerable to failure to rescue. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B784. ANTECEDENTES:La fuga anastomótica es la complicación más temida después de la resección colónica. Si bien la fragilidad del paciente se reconoce cada vez más como un factor de riesgo de morbilidad y mortalidad quirúrgicas, la bibliografía colorrectal actual no ha evaluado la relación entre la fragilidad y la fuga anastomótica.OBJETIVO:Evaluar la relación entre la fragilidad del paciente y la fuga anastomótica, así como la fragilidad del paciente y la falta de rescate en pacientes que sufrieron una fuga anastomótica.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.AJUSTE:Base de datos del Programa Nacional de Mejora de la Calidad Quirúrgica del Colegio Estadounidense de Cirujanos de 2015 a 2017.PACIENTES:Pacientes con diagnóstico de neoplasia de colon sometidos a colectomía electiva durante el período de estudio.PRINCIPAL MEDIDA DE RESULTADO:Fuga anastomótica, falta de rescate.RESULTADOS:Se identificaron 30.180 colectomías electivas por neoplasia. La tasa de fuga fue del 2,9% (n = 880). En comparación con los pacientes no frágiles, los pacientes frágiles tenían mayores probabilidades de fuga anastomótica para (puntuación de fragilidad = 1: OR = 1,34, IC del 95%: 1,10-1,63; puntuación de fragilidad = 2: OR = 1,32, IC del 95%: 1,04- 1,68; puntuación de fragilidad = 3: OR 2,41; IC del 95%: 1,47-3,96). Después de una fuga anastomótica, en comparación con un paciente no frágil, una mayor proporción de pacientes frágiles experimentó mortalidad (3,4% frente a 5,9%), choque séptico (16,1% frente a 21,0%), infarto de miocardio (1,1% frente a 2,9%) y neumonía (6,8% vs 11,8%). Además, las probabilidades de mortalidad, choque séptico, infarto de miocardio y neumonía aumentaron en pacientes frágiles con puntuaciones de fragilidad más altas.LIMITACIONES:Posible sesgo de clasificación errónea debido a la falta de una definición estricta de fuga anastomótica, diseño retrospectivo del estudio.CONCLUSIÓN:Los pacientes frágiles sometidos a colectomía por neoplasia de colon tienen un mayor riesgo de una fuga anastomótica. Además, una vez que ocurre una fuga, son más vulnerables a fallas en el rescate. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B784.

[Aspergillosis and radiation-induced pneumonia. What relationship? Apropos of 2 cases].

The authors report the cases of 2 patients who underwent lobectomy followed by irradiation for lung cancer and subsequently developed an aspergillus-infected cavity in the irradiated lung parenchyma. It is far from certain that aspergillosis must always develop in a pre-existing cavity. In cases where it developed on post-radiotherapy lung lesions, our 2 patients and a review of the literature encline us to believe that the fungus itself is responsible for the formation of cavities in lesions of radiation pneumonia. Treatment of such disease can only be surgical, and in spite of post-irradiation and post-surgery sclerosis, elective excision of the lesions is the best solution.

[Effectiveness and safety of the surgical closure of permeable arteriosus conduct by the general pediatric surgeon: clinical trial].

El conducto arterioso permeable (CAP) es un defecto cardiaco congénito y se considera un problema de salud pública. Se presenta en un alto porcentaje de recién nacidos y en algunos mayores de 1 mes. El cierre farmacológico es el tratamiento inicial preferido, ya que ha tenido excelentes resultados; sin embargo, en aquellos casos en los que no es posible, está indicado el cierre quirúrgico. Evaluar la eficacia y la seguridad del cierre quirúrgico del CAP por cirujanos pediatras sin especialidad en cirugía cardiovascular. Ensayo clínico realizado en pacientes del Hospital General de Occidente, centro hospitalario público de segundo nivel, con diagnóstico de CAP, que requirieron corrección quirúrgica. Se revisaron en forma retrospectiva los expedientes de enero de 2001 a diciembre de 2018. Se incluyeron 224 pacientes divididos en dos grupos: grupo I, con 184 (82%) recién nacidos, y grupo II, con 40 (18%) niños grandes de 2 meses a 8 años de edad. A todos se les realizó cierre quirúrgico: 3 por toracoscopía y 221 por toracotomía posterolateral izquierda. Presentaron complicaciones 36 pacientes, lo que representa el 16% del total; solo el 5.3% fueron complicaciones mayores. Fallecieron 24 pacientes en el posoperatorio, lo que representa una mortalidad del 10.7%; ninguno falleció por complicaciones transquirúrgicas. El CAP es un defecto cardíaco congénito que se presenta en alto porcentaje en pacientes prematuros. El cierre farmacológico es el principal tratamiento por tener excelentes resultados en recién nacidos; sin embargo, en aquellos casos en los que no sea posible está indicado el cierre quirúrgico. Todos los pacientes fueron operados por cirujanos pediatras generales, con una sobrevida global del 92%. En los hospitales donde no hay cirujano cardiovascular pediátrico ni cardiólogo intervencionista, la corrección quirúrgica del CAP puede ser llevada a cabo por un cirujano pediatra. La técnica es reproducible, fácil de realizar y con mínimas complicaciones. The Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is congenital heart defect and is considered a public health problem. It occurs in a high percentage of newborns and in some older than 1 month. Pharmacological closure is the preferred initial treatment, as it has had excellent results; however, in those cases where it is not possible, surgical closure is indicated. The objective is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the surgical closure of the patent PDA when it is carried out by pediatric surgeons without specialization in cardiovascular surgery. This study was conducted at the West General Hospital, a 2nd level public hospital, with the diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus that required surgical correction. For the collection of the information, the files from January 2001 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. 224 patients were included; divided into two groups: Group I: 184 (82%) “newborns” and Group II: 40 (18%) “big children” with ages from 2 months to 8 years. All had a surgical closure; 3 by thoracoscopy and 221 by left posterolateral thoracotomy. 36 patients presented complications representing 16% of the total of patients, only 5.3% were major complications. 24 patients died in the postoperative period, representing a mortality of 10.7%, none died due to trans-surgical complications. PDA is a congenital heart defect that occurs in a high percentage of premature patients. The pharmacological closure is the principal treatment because it has had excellent results in newborns; however, in those cases where it is not possible, surgical closure it´s indicated. All patients were operated by general pediatric surgeons, with a global survival of 92%. We conclude that in hospitals where there is no pediatric cardiovascular surgeon or interventional cardiologist, the surgical correction of the PDA can be carried out by a general pediatric surgeon. The technique is reproducible, easy to perform and with minimal complications.

[Usefulness of routine investigation of fungal infections through bronchoscopy in HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected patients in a general hospital, reference to AIDS].

The diagnostic yields and the spectrum of pulmonary fungal-infection obtained in samples collected by fiberoptic bronchoscopy from HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients were evaluated from 1990 to 1995. A total of 1943 bronchoscopies were performed during this period, 47% in the HIV-positive group and 53% in the HIV-negative group. Of 908 HIV-positive patients, 38 (4%) had a fungus isolated from the pulmonary sample whereas of 1035 HIV-negative patients, only 4 (0.2%) had a fungus isolated. Histoplasmosis and Cryptococcosis were more frequently found in HIV-positive than in HIV-negative patients (p < 0.001). Paracoccidioides brasiliensis was found in only 3 patients, all of them immunocompetent. The study demonstrated that, despite the low yields, the HIV-positive group may benefit from routine screening for fungal elements in specimens obtained by fiberoptic bronchoscopy.

Nonspecific, Acute Pouchitis in Patients With Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: Less Common Than We Think.

Nonspecific acute pouchitis is common in patients with ulcerative colitis who undergo IPAA, but there is disagreement about the rate at which this occurs in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. This study aimed to define the rate at which nonspecific acute pouchitis occurs in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. This study was conducted at a hereditary colorectal cancer center in a large academic medical center. This is a retrospective cohort study using prospectively gathered data. Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who have had IPAA were included. Symptoms, pouchoscopy and pouch radiography, and pouch biopsy were evaluated. The primary outcomes measured were the presence of nonspecific acute pouchitis and the alternative diagnosis of pouch dysfunction. There were 250 patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who had undergone IPAA; 38 (15.2%) had been labeled as having "pouchitis": 23 men and 15 women. Median age was 55 years (range, 18-90 years). No patient had nonspecific, acute pouchitis as defined by our criteria. In 9 cases, the diagnosis was derived from benign ulcers common in ileal pouches. Stool frequency was the most common symptom associated with the "pouchitis" label, but actual causes for the frequency included poor pouch emptying, poor eating habits, poor bowel habits, and afferent limb syndrome. Median stool frequency was 9, ranging from 4 to 15 per day. Every patient had at least 1 pouch endoscopy, and the median number was 19 per patient (range, 1-21). Nine patients had pouch biopsies to rule out inflammation; all showed chronic active enteritis, a normal finding in ileal pouches. This study was limited by its retrospective nature. We could not confirm any case of nonspecific acute pouchitis in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. Those caring for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who have a pouch should seek causes for pouch-related symptoms other than "pouchitis." See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B666.POUCHITIS AGUDA INESPECÍFICA EN PACIENTES CON POLIPOSIS ADENOMATOSA FAMILIAR: MENOS COMÚN DE LO QUE PENSAMOSANTECEDENTES:La pouchitis aguda e inespecífica es común en pacientes con colitis ulcerativa, sometidos a anastomosis de bolsa ileoanal, pero no hay acuerdo sobre la frecuencia en que se presenta en pacientes con poliposis adenomatosa familiar (PAF).OBJETIVO:Definir la frecuencia en la que se presenta pouchitis aguda inespecífica en pacientes con poliposis adenomatosa familiar.ENTORNO CLINICO:Centro de cáncer colorrectal hereditario en un gran centro médico académico.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo utilizando datos recopilados prospectivamente.PACIENTES:Pacientes con poliposis adenomatosa familiar sometidos a bolsa con anastomosis ileoanal.INTERVENCIONES:Síntomas, proctoscopia, radiografía y biopsia de bolsa ileoanal.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACION:Presencia de pouchitis aguda inespecífica; diagnósticos alternos de disfunción de la bolsa ileal.RESULTADOS:De 250 pacientes con poliposis adenomatosa familiar sometidos a una anastomosis anal de la bolsa ileal; 38 (15,2%), habían sido etiquetados como "pouchitis", 23 hombres y 15 mujeres. La mediana de edad fue de 55 años (rango de 18 a 90 años). Ningún paciente tuvo pouchitis aguda inespecífica según lo definido por nuestros criterios. En 9 casos el diagnóstico se derivó de úlceras benignas frecuentes en bolsas ileales. La frecuencia de las evacuaciones fue el síntoma más común asociado con la etiqueta "pouchitis", pero las causas reales de la frecuencia, incluyeron un mal vaciado de la bolsa, malos hábitos alimenticios, malos hábitos intestinales y síndrome de asa aferente. La frecuencia media de las evacuaciones fue de 9, con un rango de 4 a 15 por día. A cada paciente se le realizó al menos una endoscopia de la bolsa: la mediana fue de 19 por paciente (rango de 1 a 21). A 9 pacientes se les realizó biopsia de bolsa para descartar inflamación: todos mostraron enteritis activa crónica, un hallazgo normal en las bolsas ileales.LIMITACIONES:Naturaleza retrospectiva del estudio.CONCLUSIONES:No pudimos confirmar ningún caso de pouchitis aguda e inespecífica en pacientes con PAF. Aquellos que atienden a pacientes con PAF con bolsa ileal, deben buscar otras causas para los síntomas relacionados con la bolsa que no sean "pouchitis". Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B666. (Traducción-Dr. Fidel Ruiz Healy).

[Pneumonias in patients with malignant hemopathies. Their etiology, response to treatment and prognostic factors in 69 patients (88 episodes)].

To analyze the etiology, treatment response and prognostic factors in 88 episodes of pneumonia in patients with hematological malignancies diagnosed in one center during a period of 30 months. 88 episodes of pneumonia in 69 adult patients were studied. Age, sex, hematological malignancy and its treatment, existence of neutropenia and hypogammaglobulinemia, administration of immunosuppressive agents, type (hospital or community-acquired) and localization of pneumonia, presence of respiratory failure and treatment response were reported. For etiologic diagnosis of pneumonias, cultures of blood, sputum, pleural fluid and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), as well as Legionella pneumophila, Aspergillus fumigatus and Streptococcus pneumoniae antigen detection in urine were performed. Univariate and multivariate analyses of prognostic factors for pneumonia evolution were carried out. The median age was 63 years. Acute leukemias (AL) were the predominant hematological malignancies. Microbiologic documentation was obtained in 40 (45%) of pneumonias. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy with BAL (71%) was the diagnostic procedure with highest yield followed by blood cultures (25%). Streptococcus pneumoniae (13) was the most frequent isolated pathogen, followed by Legionella pneumophila (6) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (6). A significantly higher prevalence of Streptococcus pneumoniae was observed in community-acquired pneumonia. The overall mortality rate was 20%. Respiratory failure (p = 0.0009), existence of neutropenia (p = 0.0023), age equal or higher than 60 years (p = 0.012) and prolonged administration of immunosuppressive agents (p = 0.015) were the prognostic factors associated with unfavourable evolution of pneumonias in the multivariate analysis. The etiologic diagnosis of pneumonia in patients with hematological malignancies was only achieved in a half of cases. In our series, the high prevalence of Legionella pneumophila can be attributed to the special epidemiologic characteristics of our hospital. Prognostic factors of pneumonia are related to individual factors as well as to the hematological status of patients.

[Acceso vascular en apoyo renal agudo].

El acceso vascular es el primer eslabón para la terapia de apoyo extracorpórea renal. A diferencia de la terapia de reemplazo renal para pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica donde la fístula arteriovenosa es la primera opción, seguida del catéter tunelizado, en pacientes con lesión renal aguda el acceso vascular de elección es el catéter temporal. El presente estudio constituye una revisión narrativa de resumen de los estudios que analizan la elección, colocación y cuidados del acceso vascular temporal para apoyo renal agudo. En pacientes que cuentan con fístula arteriovenosa preexistente, su punción en pacientes con inestabilidad hemodinámica conlleva riesgos y no puede ser recomendada. El uso del catéter tunelizado de primera intención implica una destreza, tiempo y costos que limitan igualmente su recomendación. El cambio de catéteres por guía metálica ha mostrado ser un método seguro en ausencia de infección del catéter a retirar. El acceso femoral ha mostrado no ser inferior al acceso yugular derecho, mientras el acceso yugular izquierdo reduce la vida del circuito y debe ser considerado como cuarta opción después del yugular derecho, el femoral derecho y el femoral izquierdo. La longitud del acceso debe evaluarse de acuerdo con el sitio de inserción, mientras que los catéteres de 20 cm suelen ser adecuados para punción de la yugular derecha, la yugular izquierda suele requerir 25 cm para su llegada a la aurícula derecha. Por su parte, el acceso femoral incrementa su desempeño con longitudes de 25 a 35 cm. La punción yugular posterior baja derecha es considerada una técnica de abordaje sencilla, segura y que permite una aproximación de hasta 5 cm más caudal hacia la aurícula derecha. La interacción entre catéteres centrales debe ser anticipada o evaluada ante el riesgo de aspiración de infusiones por el circuito extracorpóreo. En el cuidado del catéter, la aplicación de heparina 1,000 U/ml reduce el riesgo de sangrado al sellar los puertos comparada con heparina 5,000 U/ml. Por último, se presenta información sobre la elección de dispositivos de cobertura, el método de fijación, los materiales de recubrimiento de catéteres y el empleo de antibióticos, incluyendo las posturas de las guías del Kidney Dialysis Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) y la European Renal Best Practice (ERBP), además de la información disponible en el consenso del Acute Dialysis Quality Initiative, revisiones sistemáticas, metaanálisis y ensayos clínicos controlados. Vascular access is the first link for renal extracorporeal support therapy. Unlike renal replacement therapy for patients with end-stage renal disease where the arteriovenous fistula is the first option, followed by the tunneled catheter, in patients with acute kidney injury a temporary catheter is the first choice. The present article constitutes a narrative review summarizing the studies that analyze the choice, placement and care of temporary vascular access for acute renal support. In patients who have a pre-existing arteriovenous fistula, their puncture in patients with hemodynamic instability carries risks and cannot be recommended. The use of tunneled catheter as first option implies a complex, time-consuming procedure with higher cost that also limits its recommendation. The change of catheters by metal guide has shown to be a safe method in the absence of infection. Femoral access has been shown not to be inferior to right jugular access, while left jugular access reduces the life of the circuit and should be considered as a fourth option after right jugular, right femoral and left femoral sites. The length of the access should be evaluated according to the insertion site, while 20 cm catheters are usually suitable for right jugular puncture, the left jugular usually requires 25 cm for achieving the position inside the right atrium. On the other hand, the femoral access increases its performance with lengths of 25-35 cm. The low posterior jugular approach is considered a simple, safe technique that allows up to 5 cm further towards the right atrium. The interaction between central catheters must be anticipated or evaluated because of the risk of aspiration of infusions by the extracorporeal circuit. The use of heparin 1000 U/ml for sealing the ports reduces the risk of bleeding compared to heparin 5000 U/ml. The reasoning on the evolution of catheters in structural coating materials, the decision on using a suture, the differences among dressings or securement devices, and the controversy over the use of antibiotics for sealing ports and for dressings are also discussed. The review includes the positions of the guidelines by the Kidney Dialysis Improving Global Outcomes and the European Renal Best Practice, in addition to the information available mainly on the consensus of the acute dialysis quality initiative, systematic reviews, meta-analysis and controlled clinical trials.

[Nosocomial pneumonia: a report of 372 cases].

Three hundred seventy-two cases of hospital-acquired pneumonia occurring during a 4-year period were reviewed. It was found that the annual incidence of the pneumonia was 1.44% which ranked first in the incidence of nosocomial infections at this institution. Most of the patients had suffered from primary severe underlying diseases with immunosuppression of different degrees. A variety of factors such as antibiotic and steroid therapy, operation, intensive care, endotracheal intubation, tracheostomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy predisposed to the acquisition of this pneumonia. Most frequent etiologic agents for hospital-acquired pneumonia were Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. The overall mortality rate was 25.3%. However, deaths associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are particularly high, with rates of 70.6% and 66.7% respectively. The incidence, mortality, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the disorder were discussed briefly.

[Tratamiento de infección crónica por virus de hepatitis C en niños, ¿perspectiva hacia la curación o lejos de la meta?]

La infección por el virus de hepatitis C es un problema global de salud pública; en México aproximadamente 2 % de la población se encuentra infectada. En niños, los datos de prevalencia son variables según la edad, pero se estima que 0.1 a 2 % de los niños presenta infección crónica por virus de hepatitis C, cuya principal vía de transmisión es la perinatal. Actualmente existen antivirales de acción directa aprobados en adultos con una tasa de respuesta viral sostenida superior a 95 %; sin embargo, en niños aún son pocos los estudios que confirman su seguridad y efectividad. Aunque todavía estamos lejos de la meta, avanzamos rápidamente hacia un tratamiento óptimo de curación también para pacientes pediátricos.

[Infection by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection. Descriptive study of 35 cases].

Analysis of the spectrum of diseases attributed to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with coinfection with the immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Retrospective study of 35 cases of coinfection with P. aeruginosa-HIV, attended from 1985 until 1995. Analysis of putative factors implicated in mortality secondary to P. aeruginosa infection. The spectrum of infection due to P. aeruginosa was: ORL infection (4 cases), infection of upper respiratory tract (4 cases), pneumonia (21 cases), infected bronchiectasias (one case), endocarditis (2 cases) and primary bacteremia (3 cases). Most of these infections were community-acquired ones (30 cases [85.7%]). Degree of immunodepression was variable, with 12 cases (34.3%) affecting to patients with more than 200 CD4+lymphocytes x 10(-9)/l. Radiological pattern of pneumonias consisted in alveolar consolidation (18 cases [85.7%]), necrotizing pneumonia (2 cases [9.5%]) and interstitial pattern (one case [4.8%]). More than a 80% of isolates of P. aeruginosa was sensible to ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, aminoglycosides, ureidopenicillins and imipenem. Recidives of the P. aeruginosa infection were detected in 7 cases (20%): 4 cases of ORL infection (100%) and 3 cases of lower respiratory tract infection (13.6%). Overall mortality was a 20% (7 cases), being directly attributed to P. aeruginosa infection in every one of the cases, all of them pneumonias. Secondary bacteremia was associated to a higher mortality (odds ratio [OR] 18.67; p = 0.0207). P. aeruginosa affect to the HIV-infected patients, independently of their immunodepression degree, affecting to different localizations. This bacteria continues to be sensible to conventional anti-Pseudmonas treatment. Pneumonia with secondary bacteremia is associated to a higher mortality.

[Rett syndrome: report of a new pathogenic variant and review of the literature regarding two clinical cases.]

El síndrome de Rett es un trastorno del neurodesarrollo con una frecuencia estimada de 1/10,000 recién nacidos vivos, el cual se presenta con un modelo de herencia ligado al cromosoma X. Las variantes patogénicas en el gen MECP2, el cual codifica para una proteína que participa en el desarrollo y la diferenciación del sistema nervioso central, causan este síndrome. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir dos casos de síndrome de Rett, uno de ellos con una nueva variante del gen MECP2. El primer caso se trata de una paciente de 5 años con microcefalia y regresión del neurodesarrollo desde los 3 años. Clínicamente se diagnosticó de síndrome de Rett en estadio III. Se realizó la secuenciación del gen MECP2 y se identificó una variante probablemente patogénica en estado heterocigoto, c.606delC (p.Thr203Argfs*7), que no ha sido reportada previamente. El segundo caso es una paciente de 17 años, referida por discapacidad intelectual grave, que se encontró clínicamente en estadio IV. Se realizó la secuenciación de MECP2 y se identificó una variante patogénica [c.880C>T(p.Arg294*)] ya descrita previamente. El diagnóstico clínico de síndrome de Rett se llevó a cabo con criterios establecidos. La confirmación diagnóstica fue mediante la secuenciación de MECP2. Para el correcto abordaje de los trastornos del neurodesarrollo es primordial conocer el fenotipo de síndrome de Rett, así como optar por el análisis molecular para la confirmación del diagnóstico. Los pacientes con síndrome de Rett requieren un seguimiento interdisciplinario para disminuir el impacto de las complicaciones. Rett syndrome is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder with an estimated frequency of 1/10,000 live births caused by hetereozygous pathogenic variants in the MECP2 gene, whose protein participates in the development and differentiation of the central nervous system. This study aimed to describe two cases with Rett syndrome diagnosis, one of them with a new variant of the MECP2 gene. We first describe the case of a 5-year-old female with microcephaly and neurodevelopmental regression starting at 3 years old, clinically corresponding to stage III Rett syndrome. Sequencing of the MECP2 gene identified a heterozygous likely pathogenic variant [c.606delC (p.Thr203Argfs*7)] not reported previously. The second case is a 17-year-old female, referred due to severe intellectual disability, clinically found on stage IV. MECP2 sequencing was performed identifying a pathogenic variant previously described [c.880C> T (p.Arg294 *)]. Rett syndrome clinical diagnosis was carried out based on established criteria. MECP2 sequencing confirmed the diagnosis. For neurodevelopmental disorders approach, it is essential to know the phenotype of Rett syndrome and select the molecular tool for the diagnosis. Patients with Rett syndrome require interdisciplinary follow-up for reducing the impact of complications.

[Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis: a study of 33 cases].

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is an infectious complication appearing mainly in immunosuppressed patients, whose diagnosis is often difficult and lately made, and that usually bears a dismal prognosis. Patients diagnosed as having IPA from 1989 to 1994 were retrospectively analyzed. Probable IPA was diagnosed on the basis of a positive culture for Aspergillus together with a consistent radiological image. Confirmed IPA was diagnosed if there was, in addition to the former, a pathological examination showing Aspergillus hifae invading pulmonary parenchyma and/or pulmonary vessels. There were 25 men and 8 women with a mean age of 53.7 +/- 16.9 years (range: 22-86 years). IPA was confirmed in 11 cases and probable in 22. Sixty three percent of the patients had hematologic malignancy or solid cancer, whereas 30.3% did not have prior granulocytopenia or immunosuppressive therapy. The mean (SD) interval between admission and diagnosis was 40.2 (37.1) days (range: 1-180 days), and the diagnosis was made while the patient was still alive in 75% of the cases. Fifteen percent of the patients had extrapulmonary aspergillosis. The most frequent finding both on X-ray film of the chest and pulmonary computed tomography were bilateral multiple pulmonary nodules. Thirteen patients were treated with itraconazole, 6 with amphotericin B, 5 received both drugs, and 2 received fluconazole. Nineteen patients (57.6%) died and the case-fatality rate among treated patients was 46.1%. IPA presents mainly in immunosuppressed patients, but there was a not negligible proportion of patients lacking the classical risk factors. IPA is often a lately made diagnosis and in a quarter of the patients it is not made when the patient is alive. The most frequent radiological presentation are multiple bilateral nodules. The case-fatality rate of IPA is exceedingly high, even when if the patient has been adequately treated.

Diverting Loop Ileostomy in the Management of Medically Refractory Constipation Cases Not Falling Into Classical Categories.

The approach to constipation refractory to medical management does not necessarily follow classical teaching and is challenging. Although the role of surgery is unclear, diverting loop ileostomy may be offered to gauge symptom response followed by colectomy for appropriate patients. Our goal was to examine outcomes in patients with constipation not falling into classical subtypes who underwent diverting loop ileostomy creation as the initial surgical intervention. Our secondary aim was to offer patients colectomy and anastomosis and examine their outcome if they improved after ileostomy. The study design was a retrospective review. This study was conducted in the pelvic floor center of our colorectal surgery department from January 2006 to December 2018. Patients with medically refractory constipation referred for surgical consideration and not falling into classical constipation categories (slow transit, normal transit, or pelvic floor dysfunction) underwent evaluation with transit marker study, cinedefecography, and anal physiology and were offered ileostomy as initial surgical management. The primary measures were symptom improvement and self-reported quality of life improvement with increased patient satisfaction. Eighty-seven patients underwent diverting loop ileostomy as initial surgical therapy. Group 1 had 54 (62%) patients who self-reported symptom improvement, discontinued anticonstipation medication, and had ileostomy output >200 mL/day. Of these 54 patients, 25 had colectomy with anastomosis, 16 (64%) of whom had symptom improvement, stayed off bowel medication, and had >1 bowel movement daily. Group 2 had 33 patients who did not meet the above criteria after initial ileostomy. Nine patients in group 2 elected colectomy with anastomosis after intensive counseling; 6 (66%) reported the same positive results above. The study limitations included: 1) no objective outcome measures of patient's perceived symptom improvement and satisfaction and 2) retrospective review. Initial creation of diverting loop ileostomy may be offered to a subset of refractory constipation patients not falling into classical categories after thorough workup. Patients who self-report symptom improvement, have ileostomy output >200 mL/day, and do not require bowel medication may have acceptable results with subsequent colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B854. ANTECEDENTES:El enfoque del estreñimiento refractario al tratamiento médico, que no siempre se presenta como las formas descritas clasicamente, es un desafío. Si bien el papel de la cirugía no está claro, se puede ofrecer una ileostomía en asa para medir la respuesta de los síntomas, seguida de colectomía en pacientes seleccionados.OBJETIVO:Evaluar los resultados de pacientes con estreñimiento, que no pertenecen a las formas clásicas de presentación, que se les realizó una ileostomía en asa de derivación, como intervención quirúrgica inicial. El objetivo secundario fue ofrecer a los pacientes una colectomía con anastomosis primaria y evaluar si mejoraban sus resultados después de la ileostomía.DISEÑO:El diseño del estudio fue una revisión retrospectiva.MARCO:Este estudio se realizó en el centro del piso pélvico de nuestro departamento de cirugía colorrectal, e incluyo los pacientes atendidos entre enero de 2006 y diciembre de 2018.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron los pacientes con estreñimiento refractario al tratamiento médico, derivados para evaluación quirúrgica, que no presentaban las formas clásicas de presentación (tránsito lento, tránsito normal, disfunción del suelo pélvico). Estos se sometieron a evaluación con estudio de tránsito colónico, cinedefecografía y fisiología anal, y se les ofreció una ileostomía en asa como tratamiento quirúrgico inicial.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Las primeras medidas fueron la mejora de los síntomas y la calidad de vida informado por el paciente.RESULTADOS:Ochenta y siete pacientes fueron sometidos a ileostomía en asa como tratamiento quirúrgico inicial. El grupo 1 tenía 54 (62%) pacientes que informaron mejoría de los síntomas, interrumpieron la medicación proquinética y tuvieron un débito por la ileostomía >200 cc/día. De estos 54 pacientes, 25 se sometieron a colectomía más anastomosis primaria y 16 (64%) tuvieron una mejoría de los síntomas, dejaron de tomar medicamentos proquinéticos y tuvieron más de una evacuación al día. El grupo 2 tenía 33 pacientes que no cumplían con los criterios de mejoría de los síntomas después de la ileostomía inicial. Nueve pacientes del grupo 2 eligieron colectomía con anastomosis después de un asesoramiento intensivo, 6 (66%) informaron resultados positivos de mejoría de los síntomas.LIMITACIONES:Las limitaciones del estudio incluyeron 1) ninguna medida de resultado objetiva de la mejora y satisfacción de los síntomas percibidos por el paciente 2) revisión retrospectiva.CONCLUSIÓNES:La creación inicial de una ileostomía en asa de derivación se puede ofrecer a un subgrupo de pacientes con estreñimiento refractario que no entran en las categorías clásicas después de un estudio exhaustivo. La mejoría de los síntomas, informado por los pacientes, producción de ileostomía >200 cc/día y que no requieren medicación proquinética, pueden tener resultados aceptables con colectomía y anastomosis ileorrectal. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/Bxxx. (Traducción-Dr. Rodrigo Azolas).

[Diagnostic imaging and therapeutic implications in lung infections in patients with HIV-1 infection].

We studied retrospectively 132 episodes of infectious pneumonias in 89 patients examined from 1990 to 1995. Pneumocystis carinii was found to be the most common cause of pneumonia (33 patients). The other causes were: Streptococcus pneumoniae (15), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (14), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8), Staphylococcus aureus (5), Cytomegalovirus (4), Haemophilus influentiae (4), Mycobacterium avium intracellulare (2), Klebsiella pneumoniae (2), E. coli (2), Serratia marcescens (1). No etiologic agent was found in 40 cases. We stress the need of a more frequent use of invasive diagnostic procedures in the study of focal lung consolidations because this radiologic sign is highly aspecific and may be caused by too many different pathogenic agents, needing different therapies-i.e., Streptococcus pneumoniae (15 cases), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8), Staphylococcus aureus (5), Klebsiella pneumoniae (2), Escherichia coli (2), Pneumocystis carinii, Serratia marcescens and Haemophilus influentiae (1). Since there is an increase in mortality among patients treated with empiric antibiotic therapy, we stress the need of the routinary use of bronchoalveolar lavage in HIV+ patients with lung consolidation to perform specific therapy. Moreover, Pneumocystis carinii is by far the most frequent cause of diffuse interstitial infiltrates, and PCP has very suggestive clinical (dyspnea), radiologic (diffuse perihilar interstitial infiltrates; ground glass opacities; pneumatoceles) and laboratory (CD3+CD4 < 200/mcl; LDH > 600 UI/dl; PO2 < 70 mmHg) patterns, always related to the discovery of Pneumocystis carinii in escreatum. Thus, we decided to treat 15 patients with specific therapy for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia with the above diagnostic algorithm, obtaining in all of them complete clinical and radiologic recovery. To conclude, in critical patients, invasive procedures should be performed only in the cases in which PCP is clinically improbable.

[Divertículo de Zenker. Manejo endoscópico contra técnica abierta. ¿Cuál es mejor? Experiencia en el Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga].

El divertículo de Zenker es una enfermedad rara en la población general. Su tratamiento puede llevarse a cabo mediante un enfoque endoscópico o quirúrgico. Reportar la experiencia en el manejo del divertículo de Zenker en un centro de enseñanza de tercer nivel. Estudio retrospectivo, transversal, descriptivo, en el que fueron analizados los expedientes de todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de divertículo de Zenker desde la formación de la clínica de tracto digestivo superior del Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga. Se encontraron 14 casos con diagnóstico de divertículo de Zenker, 10 tratados con técnica transoral y 4 por cirugía abierta. Se presentaron tres recidivas en la técnica transoral y ninguna con la técnica abierta. En cuanto a las complicaciones, hubo una lesión dental con la técnica transoral y una fístula esofágica con cirugía abierta, que fue manejada con sonda nasoyeyunal colocada por endoscopia hasta el cierre espontáneo de la fístula. El grapado transoral es una técnica con buenos resultados estéticos, pero en nuestra experiencia presenta mayor recurrencia que la cirugía abierta, por lo que debemos realizar un seguimiento a largo plazo de nuestros pacientes. Zenker diverticulum is a rare disease in the general population. Its treatment can be carried out by either an endoscopic or surgical approach. To report the experience in the management of the Zenker diverticulum in a tertiary education center. Retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study in which the files of all patients with diagnosis of Zenker diverticulum were analyzed from the formation of the upper digestive tract clinic of the General Hospital of Mexico Dr. Eduardo Liceaga. We found 14 cases with diagnosis of Zenker diverticulum, 10 treated with transoral technique and 4 for open surgery. Three recurrences in the transoral technique, no relapse with open technique. In terms of complications, one dental lesion was presented in the technique transoral, and one esophageal fistula in open surgery, managed with a nasojejunal tube placed by endoscopy until the spontaneous closure of said fistula. Transoral stapling is a technique with good aesthetic results. However, in our experience, it has a greater recurrence than open surgery, which is why we must carry out a long-term follow-up of our patients.

[Pneumonia in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Study of 30 episodes].

To analyse the etiology, diagnostic methods and response to therapy in 30 episodes of pneumonia diagnosed in 17 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) between 1995 and 2000. In each episode of pneumonia the following data were analysed: age, gender, treatment of CLL, antiinfectious prophylaxis, granulocytopenia, CD4/CD8 lymphocytes ratio, hipogammaglobulinemia, origin of pneumonia (nosocomial or community-acquired), localisation, respiratory insufficiency, need for mechanical ventilation, antimicrobial therapy and response. Diagnostic methods included blood and sputum cultures, fiberoptic bronchoscopy and search for antigens in urine (Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1, galactomannan, and Streptococcus pneumoniae). Median age of the series was 60 yr. (range 50-86) and 12 patients were male. Chlorambucil and prednisone were used in 13 cases and fludarabine in 8. Granulocytopenia was present in 14 episodes, hypogammaglobulinemia was seen in 22 and CD4/CD8 ratio was lower than 1 in 8 out of 14 evaluable cases. Etiology of pneumonia was established in 16 episodes (53%). Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was the most useful technique (83% of positive diagnoses) followed by blood cultures (38%). Two patients were diagnosed of aspergillosis at autopsy. Pneumococcus was the most frequent agent (5 cases) followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (4), Pneumocystis carinii (2) and Aspergillus fumigatus (2). One out of the two patients with P. carinii pneumonia had received fludarabin and the remaining was treated with prednisone for long time. Ten patients (30%) had died: P. aeruginosa (3 cases), P. carinii (2), A. fumigatus (2), Mycobacterium xenopi (1), and unknown microorganism (2). In this series of CLL patients the frequency of etiologic diagnosis of pneumonias was good. Pneumococcus was the most frequent microorganism. Pneumonias caused by opportunistic microorganisms were associated to the treatment with fludarabin or prednisone and were associated to a high mortality rate.

Incidence and Management of Rectal Cuff and Anal Transitional Zone Neoplasia in Patients With Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.

Rectal cuff and anal transitional zone neoplasia is an increasing challenge in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who have undergone restorative proctocolectomy. Its real incidence, range of severity, and treatment efficacy are poorly documented. We sought to document the evolution of rectal cuff and anal transitional zone neoplasia and describe its management. This is a retrospective cohort study collecting prospectively recorded data. This study involved a hereditary colorectal cancer group in a large academic medical center. All patients undergoing primary restorative proctocolectomy at this institution were included. Surveillance pouchoscopy and treatment of rectal cuff/anal transitional zone neoplasia were performed. The primary outcomes measured were the presence and the severity of rectal cuff/anal transitional zone neoplasia. Excision by cautery, snare, mucosectomy, or redo pouch was evaluated. A total of 165 patients were included: 52% were male (86/165) with a median age at restorative proctocolectomy of 31.0 years (SD 12.8). In 117 of 165, the proctocolectomy was their first operation and, in 48 of 165, it followed a colectomy. Of the patients, 83% (137/165) had stapled anastomosis; 17% had mucosectomy with handsewn anastomosis; and 14% (23/165) were treated with sulindac at some point during their surveillance. Median follow-up was 10.1 years (interquartile range, 4.5-17.2) and the median number of pouchoscopies per patient was 4 (interquartile range, 2-8). Seventy-eight of 165 (47.3%) developed rectal cuff/anal transitional zone adenomas, more in the stapled group (52.3%; 72/137) than in the handsewn group (21.4%; 6/28; p < 0.005). Median time to adenoma was 4.5 years (interquartile range, 2.4-8.9). Three patients developed cancer under surveillance, and, in 3 other patients, cancers developed when screenings lapsed. Five patients developed symptomatic anal stenosis secondary to repeated surgeries (median, 9 procedures; range, 2-10). There was no quality-of-life measurement in patients who developed rectal cuff/anal transitional zone neoplasia. Rectal cuff/anal transitional zone adenomas are more common than previously reported. Mild polyposis can be controlled endoscopically, but repeated procedures in a higher stage are associated with risk of anal stenosis. Compliance with surveillance is essential to avoid cancer. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B594. ANTECEDENTES:La neoplasia del remanente rectal y de la zona de transición anal presenta un desafío mayor en pacientes con poliposis adenomatosa familiar tratados con una proctocolectomía restaurativa. Su incidencia real, el espectro de la gravedad y la eficacia del tratamiento están mal documentados.OBJETIVO:Buscamos documentar la evolución de la neoplasia del remanente rectal y de la zona de transición anal y describir su tratamiento.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo que recabó datos registrados prospectivamente.AMBITO:Un grupo con cáncer colorrectal hereditario de un importante centro médico académico.PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes operados por primera vez de proctocolectomía restaurativa en nuestra institución.INTERVENCIONES:Endoscopía del pouch para vigilancia y tratamiento de la neoplasia del remanente rectal / zona de transición anal.PRINCIPALES VARIABLES ANALIZADAS:La presencia y la gravedad de la neoplasia del remanente rectal / zona de transición anal. Resección con cauterio, asa, mucosectomía o rehacer el pouch.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron un total de 165 pacientes: 52% eran hombres (86/165) con una mediana de edad al momento de la proctocolectomía restaurativa de 31,0 años (DE 12,8). En 117/165 la proctocolectomía fue su primera cirugía y en 48/165 fue posterior a una colectomía. En 83% (137/165) tenía una anastomosis con engrapadora, 17% tenía mucosectomía y anastomosis con sutura manual (HS). El 14% de los pacientes (23/165) fueron tratados con sulindac en algún momento durante su vigilancia. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 10,1 años (IQR: 4,5, 17,2) y la mediana del número de endoscopías del pouch por paciente fue de 4. (IQR: 2, 8) 78/165 (47,3%) desarrollaron adenomas en la zona de transición anal /remanente rectal, mayor en el grupo con engrapadaora (52,3%; 72/137) comparado con el grupo con sutura manual (21,4%; 6/28) (p <0,005). La mediana del tiempo hasta el adenoma fue de 4,5 años (IQR: 2,4, 8,9). Tres pacientes que se encontraban en vigilancia desarrollaron cáncer y en 3, otros cánceres se desarrollaron transcurrida la vigilancia. 5 pacientes desarrollaron estenosis anal sintomática secundaria a múltiples cirugías (mediana de 9 procedimientos; rango 2-10).LIMITACIONES:Falta de medición de la calidad de vida en pacientes que desarrollaron neoplasia del remanente rectal / zona de transición anal.CONCLUSIONES:Los adenomas de la zona de transición anal / remanente rectal son más comunes de lo reportado anteriormente. La poliposis leve se puede tratar por endoscopía, pero procedimientos repetidos en estadíos mayores se asocian con el riesgo de estenosis anal. El apego a la vigilancia es fundamental para evitar el cáncer. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B594. (Traducción-Dr. Lisbeth Alarcon-Bernes).

[Aetiology of AFB negative pneumonias in hospitalized HIV patients in Dakar].

A prospective study was carried out in two tertiary hospitals in Dakar to determine the main causes of sputum acid-fast bacillus (AFB) smear-negative pneumonia in HIV-infected patients. All clinical and microbiological records were reviewed by experts. Seventy patients were finally enrolled. Most of them were hospitalized at an advanced stage of AIDS. The median CD4 cell count was 62/mm(3) and the median body mass index (BMC) was 18 kg/m(2). Thirty-one patients (44 %) were known as seropositive for HIV infection prior to admission. Radiological opacities were localized in 70 % of patients and diffuse in 21 %. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed in 50 patients (71 %). A definite or probable diagnosis was obtained in 55 patients (79 %). Bacterial pneumonia (usually due to Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), tuberculosis, Pneumocystis pneumoniae and other causes (Kaposi's sarcoma, atypical mycobacteria) were diagnosed in 67 %, 24 %, 5 %, and 13 % of these patients respectively. In conclusion, pneumonia of bacterial origin and tuberculosis can be incriminated in the majority of cases of AFB negative pneumonia observed in HIV patients in Dakar.