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Cryptosporidium spp. es un protozoario productor de diarrea. Los pacientes inmunocomprometidos pueden desarrollar formas clínicas graves y persistentes. Se describen las características de pacientes con enfermedad de base asociada a inmunosupresión (EAI) con infección por Cryptosporidium spp. (IC) atendidos en un hospital pediátrico referencial de Argentina entre los años 2018 y 2023. Se analizaron datos demográficos, EAI, características de la diarrea y coinfecciones. Se incluyeron 30 pacientes con EAI e IC. La mayoría registró trasplante de órgano sólido, neoplasia hematológica e inmunodeficiencia primaria. Dieciocho presentaron diarrea persistente al momento del diagnóstico. Seis pacientes registraron coinfecciones. Se debe considerar la criptosporidiosis en el diagnóstico diferencial de enfermedad diarreica aguda o persistente en niños con distintos tipos de EAI, como el trasplante de órgano sólido, neoplasias hematológicas e inmunodeficiencias primarias.

Cryptosporidium spp. is a diarrhea-causing protozoan. Immunocompromised patients may develop severe and persistent clinical forms. Here we describe the characteristics of patients with an underlying disease associated with immunosuppression (DAI) and Cryptosporidium spp. infection seen at a referral children's hospital in Argentina between 2018 and 2023. Demographic data, DAI, diarrhea characteristics, and co-infections were analyzed. A total of 30 patients with DAI and cryptosporidiosis were included. Most of them had undergone a solid organ transplant, had a hematologic neoplasm, or primary immunodeficiency. Persistent diarrhea was observed in 18 patients at the time of diagnosis. Co-infections were recorded in 6 patients. Cryptosporidiosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute or persistent diarrhea in children with different types of DAI, such as solid organ transplant, hematologic neoplasms, and primary immunodeficiencies.

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Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection caused by fungi of the Mucorales order that occurs in immunocompromised individuals or with loss of skin or mucosa barrier integrity. This report presents four cases of rhinocerebral mucormycosis attended at a third-level hospital in Cali (Colombia) during a period of three years. All patients had different case histories and times of evolution. All four had a previous or de novo diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus, with glycated hemoglobin higher than 10% on admission. We ruled out other possible pathologies that could explain their immunocompromised condition. Mucormycosis diagnosis was made with direct visualization of hyaline coenocytic hyphae on biopsies. The basis of treatment was liposomal amphotericin B and surgical debridement. Two patients presented bacterial coinfection. One asked for voluntary discharge without having completed the treatment, and another one died. The remaining two have attended controls and had an adequate evolution.

La mucormicosis es una infección fúngica poco frecuente causada por hongos del orden Mucorales, la cual se presenta en individuos inmunocomprometidos o con pérdida de la integridad de la barrera de piel o mucosas. Se reportan cuatro casos de mucormicosis rinocerebral atendidos en un hospital de tercer nivel de Cali (Colombia) durante un periodo de tres años. Los cuatro pacientes presentaron diferentes cuadros clínicos y tiempos de evolución. Todos tenían diagnóstico de diabetes mellitus de tipo 2, de novo o previo, con una hemoglobina glucosilada de ingreso mayor del 10 % y en todos se descartaron otras enfermedades que explicaran su compromiso inmunitario. La mucormicosis se diagnosticó por la visualización directa de hifas hialinas sincitiales (coenocytic) en las biopsias tomadas. El pilar del tratamiento fue la anfotericina B liposómica junto con el desbridamiento quirúrgico. Dos pacientes presentaron coinfección bacteriana. De los cuatro, uno firmó su egreso voluntario sin completar el tratamiento y otro falleció. Los dos pacientes restantes han asistido a los controles y han mostrado una adecuada evolución.

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RESUMEN La aspergilosis pulmonar, causada por el hongo oportunista Aspergillus, afecta principalmente a individuos inmunocomprometidos. Este reporte presenta tres casos: Una mujer de 18 años con leucemia aguda desarrolló dificultad respiratoria y patrones bilaterales de "árbol en brote" en la tomografía computarizada (TC). A pesar del tratamiento con voriconazol, falleció debido a insuficiencia respiratoria. Una mujer de 58 años con diabetes y EPOC presentó disnea y hemoptisis. Las imágenes revelaron una lesión cavitada, confirmando un aspergiloma. Se consideró la cirugía debido a la hemoptisis activa. Una mujer de 41 años con antecedentes de tuberculosis presentó fiebre y síntomas respiratorios. La TC mostró lesiones cavitadas y bronquiectasias, confirmando aspergilosis crónica. Respondió bien al voriconazol. Estos casos destacan la variabilidad en la aspergilosis pulmonar y subrayan la importancia de un diagnóstico y tratamiento oportunos para mejorar los resultados en los pacientes.

ABSTRACT Pulmonary aspergillosis, caused by the opportunistic fungus Aspergillus, primarily affects immunocompromised individuals. This report presents three cases: An 18-year-old female with acute leukemia developed respiratory distress and bilateral "tree-in-bud" patterns on CT. Despite voriconazole treatment, she succumbed to respiratory failure. A 58-year-old female with diabetes and COPD had dyspnea and hemoptysis. Imaging revealed a cavitated lesion, confirming aspergilloma. Surgery was considered due to active hemoptysis. A 41-year-old female with a history of tuberculosis presented with fever and respiratory symptoms. CT showed cavitated lesions and bronchiectasis, confirming chronic aspergillosis. She responded well to voriconazole. These cases highlight the variability in pulmonary aspergillosis and underscore the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment to improve patient outcomes.

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Cryptosporidium spp. is a diarrhea-causing protozoan. Immunocompromised patients may develop severe and persistent clinical forms. Here we describe the characteristics of patients with an underlying disease associated with immunosuppression (DAI) and Cryptosporidium spp. infection seen at a referral children's hospital in Argentina between 2018 and 2023. Demographic data, DAI, diarrhea characteristics, and co-infections were analyzed. A total of 30 patients with DAI and cryptosporidiosis were included. Most of them had undergone a solid organ transplant, had a hematologic neoplasm, or primary immunodeficiency. Persistent diarrhea was observed in 18 patients at the time of diagnosis. Co-infections were recorded in 6 patients. Cryptosporidiosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute or persistent diarrhea in children with different types of DAI, such as solid organ transplant, hematologic neoplasms, and primary immunodeficiencies.

Cryptosporidium spp. es un protozoario productor de diarrea. Los pacientes inmunocomprometidos pueden desarrollar formas clínicas graves y persistentes. Se describen las características de pacientes con enfermedad de base asociada a inmunosupresión (EAI) con infección por Cryptosporidium spp. (IC) atendidos en un hospital pediátrico referencial de Argentina entre los años 2018 y 2023. Se analizaron datos demográficos, EAI, características de la diarrea y coinfecciones. Se incluyeron 30 pacientes con EAI e IC. La mayoría registró trasplante de órgano sólido, neoplasia hematológica e inmunodeficiencia primaria. Dieciocho presentaron diarrea persistente al momento del diagnóstico. Seis pacientes registraron coinfecciones. Se debe considerar la criptosporidiosis en el diagnóstico diferencial de enfermedad diarreica aguda o persistente en niños con distintos tipos de EAI, como el trasplante de órgano sólido, neoplasias hematológicas e inmunodeficiencias primarias.

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Introducción: La fiebre es un marcador de enfermedades infecciosas e inflamatorias que se da por una respuesta inmune innata y por diferentes mediaciones entre marcadores moleculares. En el paciente inmunodeprimido, uno o varios mecanismos inmunológicos pueden estar alterados, debido a que la respuesta inmune puede estar deprimida y la fiebre puede denotar un estado patológico grave subyacente. Se realizó una búsqueda exploratoria en las bases de datos PubMed/Medline, Scopus y Scielo entre septiembre y octubre de 2022. Se incluyeron los términos fiebre, pacientes inmunodeprimidos, tratamiento y sistema inmune. Se seleccionaron 41 artículos científicos con diferentes diseños epidemiológicos. Objetivo: Describir aspectos relacionados con la fisiopatología de la fiebre, el tratamiento de la presencia de fiebre en pacientes con virus de inmunodeficiencia humana y síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida, así como también en pacientes receptores de trasplantes de órgano sólido y de trasplantes hematopoyéticos, pacientes neutropénicos y pacientes tratados con corticosteroides y terapia biológica. Desarrollo: El tratamiento del paciente inmunodeprimido con fiebre incluye aspectos fundamentales como una adecuada anamnesis y examen físico, además de pruebas diagnósticas orientadas para establecer la causa de la fiebre. En estos pacientes, las infecciones juegan un papel protagónico y su intervención temprana es fundamental para impactar en la morbimortalidad. Conclusiones: El paciente inmunodeprimido con presencia de fiebre presenta un panorama desafiante para su manejo médico integral. Entre otros aspectos es relevante considerar el tipo y tiempo de inmunosupresión, así como los factores de riesgo, con el fin de orientar los diagnósticos y tratamientos(AU)

Introduction: Fever is a marker of infectious and inflammatory diseases that is caused by an innate immune response and by different mediations between molecular markers. In the immunocompromised patient, one or more immunological mechanisms may be altered because the immune response may be compromised, and fever may denote a serious underlying disease state. An exploratory search was conducted in the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Scielo databases between September and October 2022. The terms fever immunocompromised patients, treatment, and immune system. A total of 41 scientific articles with different epidemiological designs were selected. Objective: To describe aspects related to the pathophysiology of fever, management of the presence of fever in patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, as well as in patients who have received solid organ transplants and hematopoietic transplants, neutropenic patients and patients treated with corticosteroids and biological therapy. Developing: The approach to the immunocompromised patient with fever includes fundamental aspects such as an adequate history and physical examination, as well as diagnostic tests aimed at establishing the cause of the fever. In these patients, infections play a leading role and early intervention is essential to impact morbidity and mortality. Conclusions: The immunocompromised patient with the presence of fever presents a challenging panorama for his/her comprehensive medical approach. Among other aspects, it is relevant to consider the type and duration of immunosuppression, as well as the risk factors, to guide diagnoses and treatments(AU)

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Prurigo is a reactive, hyperplastic skin condition characterized by pruritic papules, plaques, and/or nodules. The temporal classification includes acute/subacute and chronic disease (≥ 6 weeks), with different clinical variants, synonymies, and underlying etiological factors. The immunology of chronic prurigo shows similarities with atopic dermatitis due to the involvement of IL-4 and IL-13, IL-22, and IL-31. Treatment includes antihistamines, topical steroids, dupilumab, and JAK inhibitors. Several conditions manifest clinically as prurigo-like lesions, and the correct clinical diagnosis must precede correct treatment. Furthermore, chronic prurigos represent a recalcitrant and distressing dermatosis, and at least 50% of these patients have atopic diathesis, the treatment of which may induce adverse effects, especially in the elderly. The quality of life is significantly compromised, and topical treatments are often unable to control symptoms and skin lesions. Systemic immunosuppressants, immunobiologicals, and JAK inhibitors, despite the cost and potential adverse effects, may be necessary to achieve clinical improvement and quality of life. This manuscript reviews the main types of prurigo, associated diseases, their immunological bases, diagnosis, and treatment.

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ABSTRACT Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines data in immunocompromised individuals are scarce. This trial assessed the immunogenicity of two CoronaVac doses and additional BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine doses in immunocompromised (IC) and immunocompetent (H) individuals. Adults with solid organ transplant (SOT), hematopoietic stem cell transplant, cancer, inborn immunity errors or rheumatic diseases were included in the IC group. Immunocompetent adults were used as control group for comparison. Participants received two CoronaVac doses within a 28-day interval. IC received two additional BNT162b2 doses and H received a third BNT162b2 dose (booster). Blood samples were collected at baseline, 28 days after each dose, pre-booster and at the trial end. We used three serological tests to detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N), trimeric spike (S), and receptor binding domain (RBD). Outcomes included seroconversion rates (SCR), geometric mean titers (GMT) and GMT ratio (GMTR). A total of 241 IC and 100 H adults participated in the study. After two CoronaVac doses, IC had lower SCR than H: anti-N, 33.3% vs 79%; anti-S, 33.8% vs 86%, and anti-RBD, 48.5% vs 85%, respectively. IC also showed lower GMT than H: anti-N, 2.3 vs 15.1; anti-S, 58.8 vs 213.2 BAU/mL; and anti-RBD, 22.4 vs 168.0 U/mL, respectively. After the 3rd and 4th BNT162b2 doses, IC had significant anti-S and anti-RBD seroconversion, but still lower than H after the 3rd dose. After boosting, GMT increased in IC, but remained lower than in the H group. CoronaVac two-dose schedule immunogenicity was lower in IC than in H. BNT162b2 heterologous booster enhanced immune response in both groups.

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Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines data in immunocompromised individuals are scarce. This trial assessed the immunogenicity of two CoronaVac doses and additional BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine doses in immunocompromised (IC) and immunocompetent (H) individuals. Adults with solid organ transplant (SOT), hematopoietic stem cell transplant, cancer, inborn immunity errors or rheumatic diseases were included in the IC group. Immunocompetent adults were used as control group for comparison. Participants received two CoronaVac doses within a 28-day interval. IC received two additional BNT162b2 doses and H received a third BNT162b2 dose (booster). Blood samples were collected at baseline, 28 days after each dose, pre-booster and at the trial end. We used three serological tests to detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N), trimeric spike (S), and receptor binding domain (RBD). Outcomes included seroconversion rates (SCR), geometric mean titers (GMT) and GMT ratio (GMTR). A total of 241 IC and 100 H adults participated in the study. After two CoronaVac doses, IC had lower SCR than H: anti-N, 33.3% vs 79%; anti-S, 33.8% vs 86%, and anti-RBD, 48.5% vs 85%, respectively. IC also showed lower GMT than H: anti-N, 2.3 vs 15.1; anti-S, 58.8 vs 213.2 BAU/mL; and anti-RBD, 22.4 vs 168.0 U/mL, respectively. After the 3rd and 4th BNT162b2 doses, IC had significant anti-S and anti-RBD seroconversion, but still lower than H after the 3rd dose. After boosting, GMT increased in IC, but remained lower than in the H group. CoronaVac two-dose schedule immunogenicity was lower in IC than in H. BNT162b2 heterologous booster enhanced immune response in both groups.

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Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most frequent infection in kidney transplant (KT) patients. The main objective was to determine the clinical and microbiological characteristics of UTIs that occur during the first year after KT. Methods: Retrospective cohort study that included patients over 18 years of age who received KT between 2009-2020 in two hospitals in Córdoba city, Argentina. Patients were followed up during the first year after the transplant by recording them in the medical records, and those who presented at least one episode of UTI were analyzed. Results: During the study period, 568 KTs were performed, of which 207 (36.4%) had at least one episode of UTI. In total, there were 419 UTI episodes, 6 (1.4%) polymicrobial UTI episodes, so a total of 426 microorganisms were identified in the urine cultures. Of the total number of episodes, 206 (49.2%) occurred between 31 and 180 days post-transplant. The main etiological agent was E. coli with 225 isolates (52.8%) followed by Klebsiella sp. with 94 (22.1%). 52.1% of all episodes were caused by multi-resistant microorganisms (MRM). Among the E. coli isolates, 94 (41.8%) were MRM. In the multivariate analysis, the risk factors associated with UTI due to MRM were a history of recurrent UTI (Odds ratio 2.43; 95% CI: 1.37-4.30) and induction with basiliximab (Odds ratio 1.53; 95% CI: 1.029-2.29). Main conclusion: UTIs occurred in more than a third of kidney transplant patients, being slightly more than half caused by MOR.

Introducción: Las infecciones del tracto urinario (ITU) constituyen la infección más frecuente en los trasplantados renales (TR). El objetivo principal fue determinar las características clínicas y microbiológicas de las ITU que ocurren durante el primer año posterior al TR. Metodología: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo, donde se incluyeron pacientes mayores 18 años que recibieron un TR entre 2009-2020 en dos hospitales de la ciudad de Córdoba. A través del registro en las historias clínicas se realizó seguimiento de los pacientes durante el primer año postrasplante y se analizaron los que presentaron al menos un episodio de ITU. Resultados: En el período de estudio, se realizaron 568 TR, de los cuales 207(36,4%) tuvieron al menos un episodio de ITU. En total hubo 419 episodios de ITU, 6(1,4%) episodios de ITU polimicrobianos, se identificaron un total de 426 microorganismos en total en los urocultivos. Del total de episodios 206(49,2%) ocurrieron entre los 31-180 días postrasplante. El principal agente etiológico fue E. coli con 225 aislamientos (52,8%) seguido de Klebsiella sp. con 94(22,1%). El 52,1% del total de episodios fueron causados por microorganismos multirresistentes (MOR). Entre los aislamientos de E. coli, 94(41,8%) fueron MOR. En el análisis multivariado los factores de riesgo asociados a ITU por MOR fueron el antecedente de ITU recurrente (Odds ratio 2.43; IC95%: 1.37-4.30) e inducción con basiliximab (Odds ratio 1.53; IC95%: 1.029-2.29). Conclusión: Las ITU se presentaron en más de un tercio de los pacientes trasplantados renales siendo un poco más de la mitad causados por MOR.

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Nocardiosis is a disease with worldwide distribution. It is usually found in tropical areas and mainly affects immunocompromised patients, however, there are also cases where its infection has been reported in immunocompetent patients. This pathology is caused by bacteria known as Nocardia spp., which are gram-positive microorganisms and environmental saprophytes, and although exposure to Nocardia spp. is almost universal, only a small fraction of exposed people develops the disease. We present the case of a 47-year-old man, with no evidence of immunosuppression, from a rural area of Boyacá, who was admitted due to intense and intermittent headache accompanied by paresthesia and, finally, a decrease in consciousness. A brain magnetic resonance was performed and evidenced a fronto-temporo- occipital space-occupying lesion in the cortico-subcortical region with a compressive effect and displacement of the ventricular system cavities. It was suspected at first a neoplastic lesion or a brain abscess. The lesion was surgically resected, and its culture showed Nocardia africana/nova. In later studies a possible primary pulmonary focus was evidenced. Alcoholism was the only risk factor documented. The patient completed 6 weeks of hospital antibiotic treatment with favorable clinical and radiological evolution and was discharged with a 1-year plan of outpatient antibiotic therapy. Although Nocardia spp. mainly affects immunocompromised patients, evidence shows that this microorganism can also be a threat to individuals without traditional immunosuppression risk factors.

La nocardiosis es una enfermedad de distribución mundial; de forma habitual se encuentra en zonas tropicales y afecta principalmente a pacientes inmunocomprometidos, sin embargo, también existen casos reportados de infección en personas inmunocompetentes. Esta infección es causada por actinomicetos del género Nocardia spp. que son bacterias Gram positivas, saprófitos ambientales. Aunque la exposición a Nocardia spp. es casi universal, solo una pequeña fracción de las personas expuestas desarrollan la enfermedad. Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 47 años, sin dato de inmunosupresión, procedente de un área rural de Boyacá, que consultó por un cuadro clínico de cefalea intensa e intermitente, con parestesias y, finalmente, alteración del estado de conciencia. Se practicó una resonancia magnética cerebral, en la que se evidenció una lesión que ocupaba espacio de localización córtico-subcortical en la región fronto-témporo-parietal izquierda, con efecto compresivo y desplazamiento de las cavidades del sistema ventricular. Se sospechó, inicialmente, una lesión neoplásica o un absceso cerebral. El paciente fue sometido a una resección quirúrgica, y el cultivo de la lesión documentó Nocardia africana/nova; en estudios posteriores, se evidenció un posible foco pulmonar primario. Como único factor de riesgo en el paciente, se documentó alcoholismo. Completó seis semanas de tratamiento antibiótico intrahospitalario con evolución clínica y radiológica, y egresó con plan de un año de terapia antibiótica ambulatoria. Aunque la enfermedad por Nocardia spp. afecta principalmente a pacientes inmunocomprometidos, la "evidencia" clínica demuestra que este microorganismo también puede ser una amenaza para individuos sin los factores de riesgo tradicionales para inmunosupresión.

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation candidates, using tuberculin skin test and QuantiFERON-TB Gold-Plus, in a high-burden tuberculosis country. Adult candidates for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation performed both tests before and those submitted to transplantation were followed up for 12 months. The prevalence of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection was 17.1% and a moderate agreement between QuantiFERON-TB Gold-Plus and tuberculin skin test was observed in this population. Previous tuberculosis exposure was a risk factor for latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. No cases of tuberculosis were diagnosed during follow-up period.

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Immunocompromised patients are at risk of opportunistic infections. This is a 67-year-old woman with systemic sclerosis and knee osteoarthritis who underwent left total knee arthroplasty in 2009. In 2018 she underwent surgery for presumed aseptic loosening. Inflammation and purulent fluid were found; implant was removed and replaced with a static spacer. Three weeks later, H. capsulatum was isolated. She was successfully treated with itraconazole for 18 months; cultures on revision spacer replacement surgery were negative.

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La nocardiosis es una enfermedad de distribución mundial; de forma habitual se encuentra en zonas tropicales y afecta principalmente a pacientes inmunocomprometidos, sin embargo, también existen casos reportados de infección en personas inmunocompetentes. Esta infección es causada por actinomicetos del género Nocardia spp. que son bacterias Gram positivas, saprófitos ambientales. Aunque la exposición a Nocardia spp. es casi universal, solo una pequeña fracción de las personas expuestas desarrollan la enfermedad. Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 47 años, sin dato de inmunosupresión, procedente de un área rural de Boyacá, que consultó por un cuadro clínico de cefalea intensa e intermitente, con parestesias y, finalmente, alteración del estado de conciencia. Se practicó una resonancia magnética cerebral, en la que se evidenció una lesión que ocupaba espacio de localización córtico-subcortical en la región fronto-témporo-parietal izquierda, con efecto compresivo y desplazamiento de las cavidades del sistema ventricular. Se sospechó, inicialmente, una lesión neoplásica o un absceso cerebral. El paciente fue sometido a una resección quirúrgica, y el cultivo de la lesión documentó Nocardia africana/nova; en estudios posteriores, se evidenció un posible foco pulmonar primario. Como único factor de riesgo en el paciente, se documentó alcoholismo. Completó seis semanas de tratamiento antibiótico intrahospitalario con evolución clínica y radiológica, y egresó con plan de un año de terapia antibiótica ambulatoria. Aunque la enfermedad por Nocardia spp. afecta principalmente a pacientes inmunocomprometidos, la "evidencia" clínica demuestra que este microorganismo también puede ser una amenaza para individuos sin los factores de riesgo tradicionales para inmunosupresión.

Nocardiosis is a disease with worldwide distribution. It is usually found in tropical areas and mainly affects immunocompromised patients, however, there are also cases where its infection has been reported in immunocompetent patients. This pathology is caused by bacteria known as Nocardia spp., which are gram-positive microorganisms and environmental saprophytes, and although exposure to Nocardia spp. is almost universal, only a small fraction of exposed people develops the disease. We present the case of a 47-year-old man, with no evidence of immunosuppression, from a rural area of Boyacá, who was admitted due to intense and intermittent headache accompanied by paresthesia and, finally, a decrease in consciousness. A brain magnetic resonance was performed and evidenced a fronto-temporo- occipital space-occupying lesion in the cortico-subcortical region with a compressive effect and displacement of the ventricular system cavities. It was suspected at first a neoplastic lesion or a brain abscess. The lesion was surgically resected, and its culture showed Nocardia africana/nova. In later studies a possible primary pulmonary focus was evidenced. Alcoholism was the only risk factor documented. The patient completed 6 weeks of hospital antibiotic treatment with favorable clinical and radiological evolution and was discharged with a 1-year plan of outpatient antibiotic therapy. Although Nocardia spp. mainly affects immunocompromised patients, evidence shows that this microorganism can also be a threat to individuals without traditional immunosuppression risk factors.

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AIMS: Mucormycosis is a rare and aggressive fungal infection with a high mortality rate because of its rapidly progressive and destructive nature. The oral cavity is often affected under opportunistic conditions. We report a 34-year-old woman diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia complained of slight swelling on the right side of her face with toothache and gingival swelling. An incisional biopsy was performed, and the specimen analysis revealed broad aseptate hyphae with a ribbon-like appearance, which is characteristic of opportunistic Mucorales infection. METHODS AND RESULTS: The oral lesion worsened, and invasion of the fungal infection into the maxillary sinus, nasal cavity, ethmoidal air cells, and sphenoid and frontal sinuses was observed. Partial maxillectomy was performed concomitantly with the ongoing chemotherapy for leukemia. A maxillofacial prosthesis was used for functional rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: Successful management requires a multimodal approach. In this case, the patient required different systemic approaches for treating leukemia and the fungal infection as well as rehabilitation with an obturator prosthesis.

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RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: Los pacientes con compromiso del sistema inmune pueden desarrollar una enfermedad neurológica incapacitante e incluso mortal, como lo es la leucoencefalopatía multifocal progresiva (LMP) producida por el virus de John Cunningham (JC). PRESENTACIÓN DEL CASO: Se presenta el caso de un hombre de 26 años con diagnóstico reciente de infección por virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) que presentó síntomas constitucionales, déficit neurológico progresivo por hemiparesia espástica izquierda, disminución de la agudeza visual y cambios comportamentales. En las imágenes de resonancia magnética (IRM) cerebral contrastada se encontró afectación subcortical difusa de la sustancia blanca con compromiso de las fibras en U que, correlacionado con una prueba de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) para virus JC en LCR, confirmó el diagnóstico de LMP. DISCUSIÓN: La LMP puede manifestarse por medio de síntomas cognitivos usualmente imperceptibles para el clínico, pero también como déficit sensorio-motor y visual que se puede corroborar en las IRM al identificar las lesiones típicas en la sustancia blanca, o bien por medio de detección del virus por PCR en líquido cefalorraquídeo. El manejo específico de la causa que desencadenó la inmunosupresión sigue siendo el pilar de tratamiento. CONCLUSIÓN: La mínima sospecha diagnóstica en aquellos pacientes con factores de riesgo y manifestaciones clínicas concordantes con la enfermedad debe llevar a que se confirme el diagnóstico y que se inicie prontamente el manejo terapéutico en búsqueda de restablecer la respuesta inmune.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Patients with immunocompromised or weakened immune system can develop a disabling and even life-threatening neurological disorder such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) caused by John Cunningham (JC) virus. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 26-year-old man with a recent diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection who presented constitutional symptoms, progressive neurological deficit due to left spastic hemiparesis with decreased visual acuity and behavioral changes. The brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed diffuse subcortical involvement of the white matter including the U-fibers, which, correlated with a detection of JC virus DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cerebrospinal fluid, confirmed the diagnosis of PML. DISCUSSION: PML can range from subtle cognitive impairment imperceptible to the clinician to sensory-motor deficits and visual disturbances that can be corroborated in MRI by identifying the typical lesions in the white matter or by detecting the virus by PCR in cerebrospinal fluid. The specific management of the cause that triggered the immunosuppression continues to be the mainstay of treatment. CONCLUSION: At the minimum diagnostic suspicion in patients with risk factors and clinical manifestations consistent with the disease should proceed to confirm the diagnosis and promptly immune reconstitution.

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El Strongyloides stercoralis es un nemátodo intestinal capaz de completar su ciclo de vida dentro del huésped humano. Se presenta el caso clínico de una mujer de 57 años con residencia en la zona amazónica por 10 años, la que presenta antecedentes patológicos personales de hiperten-sión arterial, osteoporosis y diabetes mellitus tipo 2, lo que la cataloga como inmunocomprome-tida. Esta asiste a servicios de emergencia con cuadro agudo característico de infección de vías urinarias, recibe tratamiento en la unidad de cuidados intensivos por shock séptico de origen urinario versus pulmonar. La prueba de laboratorio clínico mediante muestra tomada a través de broncoaspiración arroja la existencia de larvas activas de Strongyloides stercoralis. La paciente mejoró sus condiciones de salud luego de un mes de evolución, respondiendo satisfactoriamente a la antibioticoterapia con carbapenémicos y el antiparasitario ivermectina. Los pacientes con factores de riesgo subyacentes tienen alta probabilidad a este tipo de infección agravada. La estrongiloidásis grave tiene una alta tasa de mortalidad, por lo que un diagnóstico temprano es indispensable para mejorar el pronóstico.

Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal nematode capable of completing its life cycle within the human host. The clinical case of a 57-year-old woman who has lived in the Amazon region for 10 years is presented. She has a personal pathological history of arterial hypertension, osteopo-rosis, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, which classifies her as immunocompromised. She attends emergency services with acute symptoms characteristic of urinary tract infection, receives treat-ment in the intensive care unit for septic shock of urinary versus pulmonary origin. The clinical laboratory test using a sample taken through bronchial aspiration shows the existence of active larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis. The patient's health conditions improved after a month of evolution, responding satisfactorily to antibiotic therapy with carbapenems and the antiparasitic ivermectin. Patients with underlying risk factors are at high risk for this type of aggravated infection. Severe strongyloidiasis has a high mortality rate, so early diagnosis is essential to improve prognosis

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RESUMO

Objective: To describe the radiological findings in pediatric patients with hematological or oncological diseases who also have an invasive fungal infection (IFI). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of all patients with IFI admitted to a pediatric hematology and oncology hospital in Brazil between 2008 and 2014. Clinical and demographic data were collected. Chest computed tomography (CT) scans of the patients were reviewed by two independent radiologists. Results: We evaluated the chest CT scans of 40 pediatric patients diagnosed with an IFI. Twenty-seven patients (67.5%) had nodules with the halo sign, seven (17.5%) had cavities, two (5.0%) had nodules without the halo sign, and seven (17.5%) had consolidation. The patients with the halo sign and cavities were older (123 vs. 77 months of age; p = 0.03) and had less severe disease (34% vs. 73%; p = 0.04). Ten patients had a proven IFI: with Aspergillus sp. (n = 4); with Candida sp. (n = 5); or with Fusarium sp. (n = 1). Conclusion: A diagnosis of IFI should be considered in children and adolescents with risk factors and abnormal CT scans, even if the imaging findings are nonspecific.

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é descrever os achados radiológicos de infecções fúngicas invasivas em crianças com doenças onco-hematológicas em um único centro, de acordo com a classificação antiga e a atual de imagens típicas e atípicas. Materiais e Métodos: Foram revisados os prontuários de todos os pacientes com infecção fúngica invasiva que foram internados em um hospital pediátrico de oncologia e hematologia de 2008 a 2014. Foram coletados dados clínicos e demográficos. As tomografias de tórax dos pacientes foram laudadas por dois radiologistas independentes. Resultados: Foram identificados 40 pacientes com infecção fúngica invasiva que realizaram tomografias de tórax. Vinte e sete pacientes apresentaram nódulos com sinal do halo (67,5%), sete tiveram cavitações (17,5%), dois tiveram nódulos sem halo (5,0%) e sete apresentaram consolidações (17,5%). Os pacientes que apresentavam achados de nódulos com sinal do halo e cavitações eram mais velhos (123 versus 77 meses; p = 0,03) e tinham menos sinais de doença grave (34% versus 73%; p = 0,04) do que os outros pacientes. Dez crianças apresentaram infecção confirmada (Aspergillus sp., n = 4; Candida sp., n = 5; Fusarium sp., n = 1). Conclusão: O diagnóstico de infecção fúngica invasiva deve ser considerado em crianças com fatores de risco e tomografias de tórax alteradas, mesmo que os achados das imagens sejam inespecíficos.

RESUMO

Abstract Objective: To describe the radiological findings in pediatric patients with hematological or oncological diseases who also have an invasive fungal infection (IFI). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of all patients with IFI admitted to a pediatric hematology and oncology hospital in Brazil between 2008 and 2014. Clinical and demographic data were collected. Chest computed tomography (CT) scans of the patients were reviewed by two independent radiologists. Results: We evaluated the chest CT scans of 40 pediatric patients diagnosed with an IFI. Twenty-seven patients (67.5%) had nodules with the halo sign, seven (17.5%) had cavities, two (5.0%) had nodules without the halo sign, and seven (17.5%) had consolidation. The patients with the halo sign and cavities were older (123 vs. 77 months of age; p = 0.03) and had less severe disease (34% vs. 73%; p = 0.04). Ten patients had a proven IFI: with Aspergillus sp. (n = 4); with Candida sp. (n = 5); or with Fusarium sp. (n = 1). Conclusion: A diagnosis of IFI should be considered in children and adolescents with risk factors and abnormal CT scans, even if the imaging findings are nonspecific.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é descrever os achados radiológicos de infecções fúngicas invasivas em crianças com doenças onco-hematológicas em um único centro, de acordo com a classificação antiga e a atual de imagens típicas e atípicas. Materiais e Métodos: Foram revisados os prontuários de todos os pacientes com infecção fúngica invasiva que foram internados em um hospital pediátrico de oncologia e hematologia de 2008 a 2014. Foram coletados dados clínicos e demográficos. As tomografias de tórax dos pacientes foram laudadas por dois radiologistas independentes. Resultados: Foram identificados 40 pacientes com infecção fúngica invasiva que realizaram tomografias de tórax. Vinte e sete pacientes apresentaram nódulos com sinal do halo (67,5%), sete tiveram cavitações (17,5%), dois tiveram nódulos sem halo (5,0%) e sete apresentaram consolidações (17,5%). Os pacientes que apresentavam achados de nódulos com sinal do halo e cavitações eram mais velhos (123 versus 77 meses; p = 0,03) e tinham menos sinais de doença grave (34% versus 73%; p = 0,04) do que os outros pacientes. Dez crianças apresentaram infecção confirmada (Aspergillus sp., n = 4; Candida sp., n = 5; Fusarium sp., n = 1). Conclusão: O diagnóstico de infecção fúngica invasiva deve ser considerado em crianças com fatores de risco e tomografias de tórax alteradas, mesmo que os achados das imagens sejam inespecíficos.

RESUMO

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nystatin on the efficacy of chlorhexidine against Streptococcus mutans in planktonic cells and mixed biofilm with Candida albicans. MATERIAL AND METHODS: S. mutans ATCC 25,175 in suspension and also combined with C. albicans ATCC 18,804 in biofilm were cultured. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), crystal violet colorimetric assay, and colony-forming unit counting (CFUs/mL) were performed. RESULTS: An increased MIC of chlorhexidine against S. mutans was observed when the drugs were administered mixed in a single formulation and with time intervals in between, except for the 30-min interval. The biofilm optical density (OD) in treatments using chlorhexidine and nystatin combined did not significantly differ from chlorhexidine alone. Either in biofilm colorimetric assay or determination of CFUs, the combined treatments with nystatin administered before chlorhexidine had less effect on chlorhexidine efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: Nystatin interferes with the action of chlorhexidine against S. mutans. The antimicrobial effectiveness of the combined drugs depends on their concentration, time interval used, and the planktonic or biofilm behavior of the microorganisms. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In view of the great number of patients that can receive a prescription of chlorhexidine and nystatin concomitantly, this study contributes to the knowledge about the effect of the combined drugs. Given the high prevalence of prescriptions of chlorhexidine and nystatin in dentistry, dental professionals should be aware of their possible antagonistic effect.

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Purpose: To explore the potential immunomodulatory effects of total extract and different polar parts from Blaps rynchopetera Fairmaire. Methods: Phagocytic activity was evaluated by neutral red assay, and the effect of the immune function was investigated by normal and immunocompromised mice models. Results: In vitro, total extract, as well as chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water fractions could individually enhance the phagocytic ability of mouse peritoneal macrophages; in addition, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions had an increasing tendency when combined stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In vivo, ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) could enhance the immune organ index, increase the serum hemolysin level and peripheral blood immune cells of immunocompromised mice, while for normal mice, the effect was inconspicuous. Conclusions: Blaps rynchopetera extracts had noteworthy immunomodulatory effect, especially for individuals with immune disorders.

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