Abstract Introduction: The vaginal flora consists in different microorganisms that promote a balanced interaction between the vaginal microbiome, hormonal status, products of microbial metabolism, and the host’s immune response. The instability of the vaginal ecosystem can lead to vulvovaginitis, which is a reason for frequent consultation in primary health care, as bacterial vaginosis, vaginal candidiasis, and trichomoniasis, are responsible for most diagnoses. There are other pathologies with similar presentations but less frequent. However, these are not considered to result in wrong diagnoses and treatments, such as cytolytic vaginosis. Case description: A 20-year-old woman complained of abundant vaginal discharge, use of daily sanitary pads, itching, and odor change within one month of evolution. The physical examination highlights the redness of the external lips and vaginal introitus, as abundant, non-adherent, non-airy, and odorless mucous discharge. Cervicovaginal cytology was performed on a slide that showed inflammation and was negative for intraepithelial lesions or malignancies. A culture of vaginal exudate was requested, which showed abundant epithelial cells and numerous Doderlein bacilli. Considering the presented case, the most likely diagnosis of cytolytic vaginosis was assumed. Recommendations were given, sitz baths with sodium bicarbonate were prescribed, and the patient remained asymptomatic. Comment: In the case of a patient with symptoms of vaginal discharge and itching, the first diagnostic hypothesis should consider the prevalence of the most frequent vulvovaginal infections. However, the culture of the exudate allowed us to exclude the presence of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The patient’s symptoms and physical examination findings are characteristic of cytolytic vaginosis. The culture of the exudate confirmed the suspicion, and the appropriate diagnosis and treatment were performed. This case is intended to alert clinicians to the existence of this pathology that can often go unnoticed, compromising women’s health.

Resumo Introdução: A flora vaginal é constituída por diferentes microorganismos que promovem uma interação equilibrada entre o microbioma vaginal, estado hormonal, produtos do metabolismo microbiano e resposta imune do hospedeiro. A instabilidade do ecossistema vaginal pode levar a vulvovaginites, que são um motivo de consulta frequente nos cuidados de saúde primários, sendo a vaginose bacteriana, candidíase vaginal e tricomoníase responsáveis pela maioria dos diagnósticos. Existem outras patologias com apresentações semelhantes que, por serem menos frequentes, não são ponderadas e resultam em diagnósticos e tratamentos errados como a vaginose citolítica. Descrição do caso: Mulher de 20 anos de idade, com queixas de corrimento vaginal abundante, necessidade de uso de penso diário, prurido e alteração de odor com um mês de evolução. Ao exame objetivo destaca-se a ruborização dos lábios externos e introito vaginal, corrimento mucoso abundante, não aderente, não arejado e sem cheiro. É efetuada citologia cervico-vaginal em lâmina, que apresentava inflamação e foi negativa para lesão intraepitelial ou malignidade. Foi pedida cultura de exsudado vaginal, que apresentava abundantes células epiteliais e numerosos bacilos de Doderlein. Tendo em conta o quadro apresentado foi assumido como diagnóstico mais provável vaginose citolítica. Foram dadas recomendações e prescritos banhos de assento com bicarbonato de sódio, tendo a utente ficado assintomática. Comentário: Perante uma doente com sintomas de corrimento vaginal e prurido, a primeira hipótese diagnóstica deverá considerar a prevalência das infeções vulvovaginais mais frequentes. Contudo, a cultura do exsudado permitiu excluir a presença de bactérias, fungos e parasitas. A sintomatologia apresentada pela doente e os achados do exame físico são característicos da vaginose citolítica. A cultura do exsudado corroborou a suspeita, sendo feito o diagnóstico e o tratamento adequados. Com este caso pretende-se alertar os clínicos para a existência desta patologia, que pode muitas vezes passar despercebida, comprometendo a saúde da mulher.

Resumen: Streptococcus pneumoniae forma parte de la flora bacteriana normal de la mucosa nasal y faríngea, coloniza principalmente la nasofaringe y provoca que esta portación preceda a la enfermedad neumocócica, convirtiéndose así en la principal fuente de propagación entre las personas, especialmente en niños. A partir del año 1983, fecha en que se autorizó la primera vacuna antineumocócica de 23 componentes, se han desarrollado diferentes vacunas conjugadas, según los serotipos circulantes y causantes de enfermedades neumocócicas invasivas (ENI), de esta manera, se ha logrado disminuir en gran medida la incidencia y mortalidad de las enfermedades asociadas a neumococo. En noviembre del 2021, un grupo de expertos llevó a cabo una reunión virtual para analizar y actualizar el impacto que estas vacunas neumocócicas han generado en la salud pública de los países, especialmente durante la pandemia de la COVID-19, y como parte de las recomendaciones que surgieron se planteó que, ante el reemplazo de serotipos luego de la introducción de las vacunas antineumocócicas conjugadas (PCV) en los esquemas nacionales, es necesario buscar alternativas en vacunas independientes del serotipo, y de igual manera se deben unir esfuerzos para fortalecer la vigilancia de los serotipos, enfatizando en los no incluidos en las vacunas actuales. El objetivo de este reporte es comunicar las conclusiones del grupo de expertos que en noviembre 2021 analizó el impacto de las vacunas neumocócicas en la salud pública de los países, para generar recomendaciones aplicables en Latinoamérica.

Abstract: Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus) is part of the natural bacterial flora of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, colonizes mainly the nasopharynx, and causes this carriage to precede pneumococcal disease, thus becoming the main source of propagation among people, especially in children. Since 1983, when the first 23-component anti-pneumococcal vaccine was authorized, different conjugated vaccines have been developed according to the circulating serotypes that cause invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD), reducing the incidence and mortality of these diseases considerably. In November 2021, a group of experts held a virtual meeting to update and analyze the impact that pneumococcal vaccines have generated on the countries’ public health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendations that emerged included the need to look for alternatives in serotype-independent vaccines after the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV) in the national immunization schedules, as well as to strengthen the surveillance of serotypes, focusing on those not included in the current vaccines. The objective of this report is to communicate the conclusions of the group of experts that in November 2021 analyzed the impact of pneumococcal vaccines on public health in the countries, in order to generate recommendations applicable in Latin America.

Resumen: Streptococcus pneumoniae forma parte de la flora bacteriana normal de la mucosa nasal y faríngea, coloniza principalmente la nasofaringe y provoca que esta portación preceda a la enfermedad neumocócica, convirtiéndose así en la principal fuente de propagación entre las personas, especialmente en niños. A partir del año 1983, fecha en que se autorizó la primera vacuna antineumocócica de 23 componentes, se han desarrollado diferentes vacunas conjugadas, según los serotipos circulantes y causantes de enfermedades neumocócicas invasivas (ENI), de esta manera, se ha logrado disminuir en gran medida la incidencia y mortalidad de las enfermedades asociadas a neumococo. En noviembre del 2021, un grupo de expertos llevó a cabo una reunión virtual para analizar y actualizar el impacto que estas vacunas neumocócicas han generado en la salud pública de los países, especialmente durante la pandemia de la COVID-19, y como parte de las recomendaciones que surgieron se planteó que, ante el reemplazo de serotipos luego de la introducción de las vacunas antineumocócicas conjugadas (PCV) en los esquemas nacionales, es necesario buscar alternativas en vacunas independientes del serotipo, y de igual manera se deben unir esfuerzos para fortalecer la vigilancia de los serotipos, enfatizando en los no incluidos en las vacunas actuales. El objetivo de este reporte es comunicar las conclusiones del grupo de expertos que en noviembre 2021 analizó el impacto de las vacunas neumocócicas en la salud pública de los países, para generar recomendaciones aplicables en Latinoamérica.

Abstract: Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus) is part of the natural bacterial flora of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, colonizes mainly the nasopharynx, and causes this carriage to precede pneumococcal disease, thus becoming the main source of propagation among people, especially in children. Since 1983, when the first 23-component anti-pneumococcal vaccine was authorized, different conjugated vaccines have been developed according to the circulating serotypes that cause invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD), reducing the incidence and mortality of these diseases considerably. In November 2021, a group of experts held a virtual meeting to update and analyze the impact that pneumococcal vaccines have generated on the countries’ public health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendations that emerged included the need to look for alternatives in serotype-independent vaccines after the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV) in the national immunization schedules, as well as to strengthen the surveillance of serotypes, focusing on those not included in the current vaccines. The objective of this report is to communicate the conclusions of the group of experts that in November 2021 analyzed the impact of pneumococcal vaccines on public health in the countries, in order to generate recommendations applicable in Latin America.

Abstract Introduction: Over the last decade, a shift in the spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) microbial pattern toward an increasing incidence of gram-positive and multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria has been reported. Systematic surveillance of the local microbiological scenario and antibiotic resistance is crucial to SBP treatment success. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological profile and bacterial resistance of SBP pathogens in a Portuguese cohort to allow selection of the most appropriate empirical antibiotics. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective study including 63 adult cirrhotic patients with culture-positive SBP. Patients were identified using a hospital general diagnostic database and searching for all SBP events (neutrophil count in ascitic fluid ≥250/mm3) from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017. Patients were excluded if they had culture-negative SBP, secondary peritonitis, peritoneal dialysis, a liver transplant, or immunodeficiency. The site of SBP acquisition was classified as nosocomial if it was diagnosed 48 h or longer after hospitalization or as nonnosocomial if it was diagnosed within the first 48 h. MDR bacteria were those with an acquired resistance to at least 1 agent in 3 or more antimicrobial categories. All statistical analyses were carried out using IBM SPSS Statistics software version 22 (IBM, New York, USA). Results: The study cohort comprised 53 (84.1%) men. The mean age of the patients was 60.6 ± 11.2 years. Alcohol was the most common etiology (88.9%) and most patients had advanced liver cirrhosis (87.1%, Child C). Gram-negative bacteria were slightly more frequent than gram-positive bacteria (56.9 vs. 43.1%). Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen (33.8%). Nineteen (31.7%) bacteria were classified as MDR. Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins, quinolones, piperacillin-tazobactam, and carbapenems was found in 31.7, 35, 26.7, and 18.3% of the cases, respectively. The rates of gram-positive bacteria were similar between nosocomial and nonnosocomial episodes (45 vs. 42.2%; p = 0.835). MDR bacteria were more common in the nosocomial group (50 vs. 23.8%; p = 0.046). Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins (50 vs. 23.8%; p = 0.046), piperacillin-tazobactam (44.4 vs. 19.1%; p = 0.041), and carbapenems (33.3 vs. 11.9%; p = 0.049) occurred more frequently in nosocomial episodes. Resistance to first-line antibiotic occurred in 29.3% of the patients, being more common in the nosocomial group (44.4 vs. 22.5%; p = 0.089). Conclusion: Although gram-negative bacteria remain the most common causative microorganisms, our results emphasize the shift in SBP microbiological etiology, as almost half of the isolated microorganisms were gram positive. The emergence of bacteria resistant to traditionally recommended empirical antibiotics underlines the importance of basing this choice on local flora and antibiotic susceptibility data, allowing a more rational and successful use of antibiotics.

Resumo Introdução: Na última década assistiu-se a uma mudança no padrão microbiológico da peritonite bacteriana espontânea (PBE), com aumento da incidência de bactérias gram-positivas e multirresistentes. Uma vigilância sistemática do cenário microbiológico e da resistência antibiótica é crucial para o sucesso do tratamento da PBE. O principal objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o perfil microbiológico e os padrões de resistência antibiótica dos agentes bacterianos responsáveis pelos casos de PBE numa coorte portuguesa de doentes cirróticos, de modo a permitir uma seleção mais apropriada da antibioterapia empírica. Métodos: Estudo retrospetivo unicêntrico, que incluiu 63 doentes adultos cirróticos com PBE cultura-positiva. A identificação dos doentes foi efetuada a partir da base de dados eletrónica do centro hospitalar, pesquisando todos os internamentos por PBE (contagem de neutrófilos no líquido ascítico ≥250/mm3) entre 1 janeiro de 2012 e 31 de dezembro de 2017. Foram aplicados como critérios de exclusão: cultura de líquido ascítico negativa, peritonite secundária, diálise peritoneal, transplante hepático ou imunodeficiência. O local de aquisição da PBE foi classificado como nosocomial se diagnóstico após as primeiras 48 horas de hospitalização, e não-nosocomial se diagnóstico nas primeiras 48 horas. Multirresistência foi definida como resistência adquirida a pelo menos um agente em três ou mais categorias antimicrobianas. A análise estatística foi efetuada com recurso ao software IBM SPSS Statistics versão 22 (IBM, New York, USA). Resultados: A coorte incluiu 53 (84.1%) doentes cirróticos do género masculino. A idade média dos doentes foi de 60.6 ± 11.2 anos. O álcool constituiu a etiologia mais comum (88.9%) e a maioria dos doentes apresentava uma cirrose em estadio avançado (87.1%, Child-C). As bactérias gram-negativas revelaram-se ligeiramente mais frequentes que as gram-positivas (56.9 vs. 43.1%). Escherichia coli foi o microrganismo mais frequente (33.8%). Dezanove (31.7%) das bactérias isoladas foram classificadas como multirresistentes. As resistências às cefalosporinas de terceira-geração, às quinolonas, à piperacilina-tazobactam e aos carbapenemes foram de 31.7, 35, 26.7 e 18.3%, respetivamente. A taxa de bactérias gram-positivas foi similar entre PBE nosocomial e não-nosocomial (45 vs. 42.2%; p = 0.835). As bactérias multirresistentes foram mais frequentes no grupo nosocomial (50 vs. 23.8%; p = 0.046). A resistência às cefalosporinas de terceira-geração (50 vs. 23.8%; p = 0.046), à piperacilina-tazobactam (44.4 vs. 19.1%; p = 0.041) e aos carbapenemes (33.3 vs. 11.9%; p = 0.049) foi significativamente superior nas infeções nosocomiais. A resistência à antibioterapia empírica de primeira linha ocorreu em 29.3% dos doentes, sendo mais frequente no grupo nosocomial (44.4 vs. 22.5%; p = 0.089). Conclusão: Apesar de as bactérias gram-negativas constituírem, nesta coorte, a maioria dos microrganismos responsáveis pela PBE, os nossos resultados enfatizam a mudança na etiologia microbiológica da PBE, na medida em que, quase metade dos microrganismos isolados foram gram-positivos. A emergência de bactérias resistentes aos antibióticos empíricos tradicionalmente recomendados sublinha a importância de basear esta escolha nos dados locais sobre flora bacteriana e susceptibilidade antibiótica, permitindo uma escolha mais racional e um uso bem-sucedido dos antibióticos.

Abstract Actinomycosis is a rare chronic infection, caused by gram-positive bacteria from the Actinomyces species, which is part of the endogenous flora of the oral cavity, gastrointestinal and female genital tracts. In order to cause infection, disruption of the mucosal barrier is imperative. Long-standing IUD (intra-uterine device) is a risk factor. We, hereby, present a case of a 32-year-old woman who presented with lower abdominal pain and a tender mass. The inflammatory parameters increased progressively. There was a history of IUD usage. Ultrasound, Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging demonstrated a heterogeneous enhancing mass-like extending from the bladder to the rectus abdominis muscle, with restricted diffusion and extensive regional oedema. Aspiration cytology revealed bacteria Parvimonas micra and polymorphonuclear leukocytes. However, the patient underwent surgery and the histopathological findings showed an abscess with microorganisms compatible with Actinomyces.

Resumo A actinomicose é uma infeção crónica rara, causada por bactérias gram-positivas da espécie Actinomyces, integrantes da flora endógena da cavidade oral, gastrointestinal e genital feminina. Para causar infeção é necessário existir uma disrupção da mucosa. A presença de um dispositivo intra-uterino (DIU) de longa duração é um factor de risco. Apresentamos um caso de uma mulher de 32 anos que recorre ao Serviço de Urgência com dor abdominal, massa hipogástrica dolorosa e aumento progressivo dos parâmetros inflamatórios. Tinha como antecedente de relevo a utilização de um DIU. Foram realizadas ecografia, Tomografia Computadorizada e Ressonância Magnética que demonstraram uma lesão desde a cúpula vesical até ao músculo recto abdominal, com captação heterogénea e restrição à difusão, associada a marcado edema regional. A citologia aspirativa identificou a bactéria Parvimonas micra e leucócitos polimorfonucleares. Foi submetida a resseção cirúrgica com resultado anatomopatológico de abcesso por Actinomyces.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The cross or hospital infections constitute an important health problem in all the hospitals of the world. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with hospital infections. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study of 57 patients with hospital acquired infections was carried out. They were admitted to the Internal Medicine Service of Saturnino Lora Clinical-surgical Teaching Provincial Hospital of Santiago de Cuba, from October to December, 2019, for which the variables age, associated diseases, predisposing factors, type of infection and isolated germs were analyzed. Results: In the series the 60-69 years age group and hypertension as concomitant chronic disease (26.0 %) were notable. Among the predisposing factors nicotine addiction (32.8 %) was more frequent and the preponderant type of infection was the bacterial bronchopneumonia (47.0 %) whose causal germ in most of the cases (35.1 %) was the Klebsiella pneumoniae. Conclusions: The hospital acquired infections mainly afflicted patients of advanced age with associated chronic diseases, as diabetes mellitus and hypertension. It is necessary to highlight the importance of knowing the existent microbial flora in the service where the infection is acquired, in order to achieve boththe prevention, the opportune diagnosis and the appropriate treatment.

RESUMEN Introducción: La infección nosocomial o intrahospitalaria constituye un importante problema de salud en todos los hospitales del orbe. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de pacientes con infecciones intrahospitalarias. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de 57 pacientes con infecciones intrahospitalarias, ingresados en el Servicio de Medicina Interna del Hospital Provincial Docente Clínico-Quirúrgico Saturnino Lora de Santiago de Cuba, de octubre a diciembre de 2019, para lo cual se analizaron las variables edad, enfermedades asociadas, factores predisponentes, tipo de infección y gérmenes aislados. Resultados: En la serie sobresalieron el grupo etario de 60-69 años y la hipertensión arterial como enfermedad crónica concomitante (26,0 %). Entre los factores predisponentes resultó más frecuente el tabaquismo (32,8 %) y el tipo de infección preponderante fue la bronconeumonía bacteriana (47,0 %), cuyo germen causal en la mayoría de los casos (35,1 %) fue la Klebsiella pneumoniae. Conclusiones: Las infecciones intrahospitalarias aquejaron principalmente a pacientes de edad avanzada con enfermedades crónicas asociadas, como la diabetes mellitus y la hipertensión arterial. Cabe destacar la importancia de conocer la flora microbiana existente en el servicio donde se adquiere la infección, a fin de lograr tanto la prevención como el diagnóstico oportuno y el tratamiento adecuado.

ABSTRACT Viridans group streptococci (VGS) are a heterogeneous group of saprophytic facultative anaerobic bacteria that are part of the normal flora of the oral cavity. The increased resistance to multiple antibiotics in this group of bacteria becomes important in prolonged antibiotic therapies inpatient where these common microorganisms are replaced by multi-resistant bacteria. Objectives: To determine the percentage of VGS strains isolated from oral cavity resistant to antibiotics used in hospital infectious diseases. Material and methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study that included 60 hospitalized patients with a history of antibiotic therapy for more than 3 weeks. The samples were processed following standardized protocols for collection, isolation and identification of oral cavity VGS and a protocol of antibiotic susceptibility testing. The results are shown in tables and graphics of absolute and relative frequencies. Results: The main indication for antibiotic therapy was orofacial infection with a 28.33%. Penicillin was the antibiotic further used either in single, combined or multiple therapies in all patients. A total of 108 samples (1.8 per patient swabs) were collected. The predominantly identified specie was Streptococcus mutans. The 96.3% of all VGS strains were sensitive to all antibiotics included in the panel. Conclusion: Using different combinations and types of antibiotic therapy inpatient has no effect on the susceptibility of VGS isolated from oral cavity separate from treatment.

RESUMEN Los estreptococos del grupo viridans (EGV) son un grupo heterogéneo de bacterias saprófitas anaerobias facultativas que forman parte de la flora normal de cavidad oral. El incremento de la resistencia antibiótica de este grupo de bacterias cobra importancia en pacientes hospitalizados con terapia antibiótica prolongada, en los cuales estos microorganismos pueden ser sustituidos por bacterias multirresistentes. Objetivos: Determinar el porcentaje de cepas de EGV aisladas de cavidad oral resistentes a los antibióticos utilizados en el tratamiento de diversas patologías infecciosas hospitalarias. Material y Métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo en el que se incluyeron 60 pacientes hospitalizados con historia de terapia antibiótica por más de 3 semanas. Las muestras se procesaron siguiendo protocolos estandarizados de recolección, aislamiento e identificación para EGV de cavidad oral y un protocolo de pruebas de sensibilidad antibiótica. Los resultados se muestran en tablas y gráficas de frecuencia. Resultados: La principal indicación para terapia antibiótica intrahospitalaria fue infección orofacial: 28,33%. La penicilina fue el antibiótico más utilizado ya sea en terapia única, combinada o múltiple en todos los pacientes. Se aislaron en total 108 cepas de EGV, con un promedio de 1,8 cepas por paciente. La especie predominantemente identificada fue S. mutans. El 96,3% de las cepas de EGV fue sensible a todos los antibióticos incluidos en el panel. Conclusiones: El uso de distintas combinaciones y modalidades de terapia antibiótica no tiene efecto en la susceptibilidad de EGV aislados de cavidad oral en pacientes hospitalizados, independiente de la duración del tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Intraabdominal infections are considered one of the leading causes of surgical emergencies worldwide. Recognition of tertiary peritonitis as a new form of sepsis of intraabdominal origin and multi-organ dysfunction and/or failure is increasing, but not unanimous. Objective: To carry out an analysis of the literature about tertiary peritonitis, its definition, pathophysiological elements, risk factors, and therapy. Method: A search was carried out in the databases of Pubmed, LILACS, SciELO and Google Scholar. Keywords, as well as DeCs and MESH terms were used in the search period 2010-2020, in English and Spanish, in order to provide the concepts, classifications and the comprehensive management for tertiary peritonitis. The types of studies selected were guidelines, systematic reviews, randomized clinical trials, and observational studies. Development: The condition was defined as a peritoneal inflammation that persisted or recurred after 48 hours, with clinical signs of peritoneal irritation, after apparently adequate treatment that followed secondary peritonitis caused by nosocomial pathogens. The entity had a high mortality, with necessary elements for its diagnosis: a characteristic bacterial flora, generally low virulence microorganisms and predisposition to affect immunocompromised patients. The key elements for its treatment are antibiotic therapy and suitable surgical management. Conclusions: Despite the extreme severity of this entity, there are ambiguities in its definition, diagnosis and managment. Studies on the subject address very heterogeneous definitions and, therefore, the outcomes are highly variable.

RESUMEN Introducción: Las infecciones intrabdominales son consideradas como una de las primeras causas de emergencias quirúrgicas a nivel mundial. El reconocimiento de la peritonitis terciaria como una nueva forma de sepsis de origen intrabdominal y disfunción- falla multiorgánica es creciente, pero no unánime. Objetivo: Realizar un análisis de la literatura sobre la peritonitis terciaria, su definición, elementos fisiopatológicos, factores de riesgo y terapéutica. Método: Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos Pubmed, LILACS, SciELO y Google académico. Se utilizaron palabras clave, términos DeCs y MESH, en el periodo de búsqueda 2010-2020 en idioma inglés y español, con el fin de proporcionar los conceptos, clasificaciones y manejo integral en el abordaje de la peritonitis terciaria. Los tipos de estudios seleccionados fueron guías, revisiones sistemáticas, ensayos clínicos aleatorizados y estudios observacionales. Desarrollo: Se definió como una inflamación peritoneal que persistió o recurrió después de 48 horas, con signos clínicos de irritación peritoneal, tras un tratamiento aparentemente adecuado que siguió a una peritonitis secundaria y producida por patógenos nosocomiales. Es una entidad que tuvo una elevada mortalidad, que cuenta con elementos necesarios para su diagnóstico, con una flora bacteriana característica, generalmente microorganismos de baja virulencia unido a predisposición por paciente inmunocomprometido y los elementos claves para su tratamiento son la antibiótico terapia y un manejo quirúrgico adecuado. Conclusiones: A pesar de la gravedad extrema de esta entidad, existen ambigüedades en su definición, diagnóstico y tratamiento. Los estudios sobre el tema abordan definiciones muy heterogéneas y por tanto los resultados son muy variables.

Abstract Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a frequent cause of genital discomfort. It is characterized by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, with a decrease of Lactobacillus. The hypothesis was raised that the administration of Lactobacillus probiotics could restore flora balance, reducing risk and recurrence of BV. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the short and long-term efficacy of probiotic therapy, when associated with antibiotics, in BV. The authors concluded that the association of probiotics does not seem to significantly improve the effectiveness of standard antibiotic therapy. Despite not being advised, this association also has not prove to be harmful.

Resumen Antecedentes: El diagnóstico definitivo de cáncer de próstata se realiza mediante biopsia prostática. Aunque ha aumentado el abordaje transperineal, la biopsia transrectal sigue siendo la más utilizada a nivel mundial. Las complicaciones infecciosas son las más graves después de la biopsia. El uso de antimicrobianos como profilaxis es una práctica muy utilizada. Las fluoroquinolonas son los antibióticos de elección en todo el mundo previo a la realización de una biopsia. La resistencia antimicrobiana a las fluoroquinolonas ha aumentado en las últimas décadas. La resistencia muestra cifras muy variables en cada país y región. El uso de otras opciones de antibióticos dependerá de las sensibilidades locales. Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de resistencia bacteriana a fluoroquinolonas y otros antibióticos en los pacientes que acuden a realización de biopsia prostática en nuestro hospital. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un hisopado rectal previo a biopsia prostática en pacientes que acudían a realización de biopsia transrectal de próstata. Se analizaron los resultados de los cultivos y se hizo un análisis descriptivo de las resistencias y sensibilidades encontradas. Resultados: Se realizaron 123 hisopados rectales. 89 pacientes tuvieron desarrollo en el cultivo. La principal bacteria fue E. coli. Encontramos resistencias en flora rectal previo a la biopsia a fluoroquinolonas del 83%. Los carbapenémicos muestran la mayor tasa de sensibilidad. No encontramos complicaciones infecciosas en nuestra población. Conclusión: Las resistencias a fluoroquinolonas en nuestra población es del 83%. El uso de antibiótico, preparación intestinal y un urocultivo previo, disminuyen la incidencia de infecciones posbiopsia. La biopsia transperineal ofrece la seguridad de ausencia de complicaciones infecciosas, sin embargo, lo pacientes muestran síntomas urinarios importantes con esta técnica. En nuestro país no existen reportes de resistencias bacterianas previos a biopsia transrectal.

Abstract Background: The diagnosis of prostate cancer is accomplished with the use of prostatic biopsy. Although the transperineal access has emerged and been used more commonly, the transrectal approach is still the most performed globally. Infectious complications following biopsy are the most important and serious. The use of prophylactic antibiotics is a common practice. Fluoroquinolones have been the most used antibiotics worldwide and remain the first option before prostate biopsy. However, the resistance to these antibiotics has been rising dramatically in the last decades. Resistance shows different numbers in each country and region. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the local sensibilities reported. Aim: To determine de prevalence of fluoroquinolone and othe antibiotic resistance in patients that come to our hospital for a prostate biopsy. Material and methods: We performed a rectal swab in patients in whom a prostate biopsy was performed. Culture results were obtained and a descriptive analysis of resistance and sensibilities were obtained. Results: We performed 126 rectal swabs. The main microorganism found in rectal cultures was E.coli. In our study we found a resistance to fluoroquinolones of 83%. The highest sensibility was for carbapenemics. None of our patients developed infectious complications. Conclusion: We found a resistance rate in rectal flora before prostate biopsy of 83% to fluoroquinolones. We didn´t observe infectious complications in the patients included in our study. The use of antibiotics, bowel preparation, and negative urine culture diminish the possibilities of infectious complications. Although transperineal biopsy offers a minimal risk of infection, patients show more symptoms following this procedure. To our knowledge there are no reports of antibiotic resistance in rectal flora in our population.

RESUMEN Las lesiones pulpares y periodontales son las más prevalentes en la cavidad bucal y, tal vez por ello, son las causas más frecuentes de consulta odontológica en nuestro medio y en el mundo. Estas patologías tienen principalmente, etiología bacteriana y una flora polimicrobiana. Las estructuras anatómicas e histológicas de los tejidos periodontales y pulpares presentan interrelaciones, que deben considerarse en la etiopatología de sus procesos. El diagnóstico de las lesiones endoperiodontales no siempre se puede definir claramente, lo cual crea vacíos que dificultan el diagnóstico de las enfermedades pulpares y periodontales. El odontólogo debe estar preparado y entrenado para que le sea posible definir el diagnóstico diferencial de las dos enfermedades y brindar un tratamiento eficiente. Se reporta un caso clínico, donde el manejo del examen clínico, así como de la anatomía endoperiodontal, son decisivos para llegar al diagnóstico correcto y el tratamiento oportuno y adecuado.

ABSTRACT Pulp and periodontal lesions are the most prevalent in the oral cavity, and are the most frequent causes of dental consultation in our environment and in the world. These pathologies are mainly of bacterial etiology, with a polymicrobial flora. The anatomical and histological structures of the periodontal and pulp tissues present interrelationships that must be taken into account in the etiopathology of these processes. The diagnosis of endoperiodontal lesions is not always clearly defined, which constitutes certain gaps for the diagnosis. The dentist must be trained to perform the differential diagnosis of these two diseases and provide efficient treatment in our patients. A clinical case is reported, where the management of the clinical examination as well as the endoperiodontal anatomy is important to reach the correct diagnosis and its subsequent treatment.

Resumen Las vasculitis leucocitoclásticas se definen como el daño e inflamación de las paredes vasculares, son aquellas vasculitis de pequeños vasos que anatomopatológicamente presentan leucocitoclasia y puede observarse como una manifestación extraintestinal de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal. En la colitis ulcerativa se presentan en menor frecuencia, por inmunocomplejos generados en la mucosa intestinal debido a la exposición del tejido linfoide submucoso a antígenos fecales; podrían precipitarse en las paredes de los pequeños vasos. Se pueden asociar con Clostridium difficile, que es un bacilo grampositivo esporulado, anaerobio estricto, que se encuentra normalmente en el medio ambiente y produce colitis, que se manifiesta como un cuadro diarreico presentado después de la ingesta de antibióticos y altera la flora bacteriana común de este órgano. El caso se trata de un paciente 36 años de edad con cuadro de diarreas líquidas con moco y escaso sangrado; se realizó un estudio endoscópico y anatomopatológico en el que se observó colitis ulcerativa con coproparasitario positivo para antígeno de C. difficile, y en su hospitalización presentó lesiones dérmicas petequiales y necróticas en el cuarto dedo de la mano izquierda, que en la biopsia dio como resultado vasculitis de pequeños vasos. En este artículo se revisan de forma práctica los aspectos relacionados con la fisiopatología, histología, tratamiento y diagnósticos de la manifestación extraintestinal dermatológica rara, como la vasculitis leucocitoclástica en pacientes con colitis ulcerativas asociadas con Clostridium.

Abstract Leukocytoclastic vasculitis is defined as the damage and inflammation of the vascular walls. The term refers to vasculitis of the small vessels that anatomopathologically present leukocytoclasia and it can be seen as an extra-intestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease. In ulcerative colitis, it occurs less frequently due to immune complexes produced in the intestinal mucosa by exposure of the submucosal lymphoid tissue to fecal antigens, which could precipitate in the walls of the small vessels. This condition can be associated with Clostridium difficile, which is a gram-positive, sporulated, strict anaerobic bacillus, normally found in the environment. It causes colitis that manifests as a diarrheal disease following the ingestion of antibiotics that alter the common bacterial flora of this organ. This is the case report of a 36-year-old patient with liquid diarrhea with mucus and scarce bleeding. Endoscopic and anatomopathological studies were performed, finding ulcerative colitis with positive coproparasite for Clostridium difficile antigen. The patient was hospitalized, and during his stay, he presented with petechiae and necrotic skin lesions on the fourth finger of the left hand. Skin biopsy showed small vessel vasculitis. This article is a practical review of the pathophysiology, histology, treatment, and diagnosis of a rare dermatologic extraintestinal manifestation, namely, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, in patients with C. difficile-associated ulcerative colitis.

RESUMEN Objetivos: medir el impacto en la calidad de la prescripción antibiótica empírica en los médicos generales luego de la implementación de un sistema de evaluación y retroalimentación. Métodos: estudio cuasiexperimental con pre y postintervención en una clínica de tercer nivel en Medellín. Se revisó las prescripciones de un grupo de antibióticos por un médico internista, un epidemiólogo y un infectólogo. Se midió el consumo de antibióticos, las retroalimentaciones realizadas, el diagnóstico de la sepsis, tiempo de inicio de los antibióticos en el servicio de urgencias y la prevalencia de Escherichia coli productora de betalactamasa de espectro extendido. Resultados: el número de retroalimentaciones descendió de 10,9 a 2 %. Se redujo el consumo de ceftriaxona (p = 0,04), piperacilina tazobactam (p = 0,01), cefepime (p = 0,04) y ciprofloxacina (p = 0,01). Se evidenció una tendencia a la reducción en la prevalencia de E. coli BLEE (p = 0,3). La intervención no produjo un retraso en el inicio de antibióticos en el servicio de urgencias. Conclusión: una estrategia de auditoría y retroalimentación a los médicos generales, referente a la calidad de la prescripción antibiótica, reduce el consumo de antibióticos sin afectar la oportunidad del diagnóstico de sepsis o el inicio de su tratamiento y puede impactar favorablemente en el perfil de resistencia de la flora microbiana institucional.

SUMMARY Objectives: To measure the impact on the quality of the empirical antibiotic prescription in general practitioners, after the implementation of an evaluation and feedback system. Methods: Quasi-experimental study with pre- and post-intervention in a tertiary care center in Medellín. The prescriptions of a group of antibiotics were reviewed by an internist, an epidemiologist and an infectologist. When failures were found, prescribing doctors were informed. Subsequently, antibiotic consumption, feedbacks, sepsis diagnosis, start time of antibiotics in the emergency department and monthly incidence of Escherichia coli producing extended spectrum betalactamase were measured. Results: The numbers of feedbacks decreased from 10.9% to 2%. Consumption of ceftriaxone (p = 0.04), piperacillin tazobactam (p = 0.01), cefepime (p = 0.04) and ciprofloxacin (p = 0.01) was reduced. There was a tendency to reduce the prevalence of E. coli ESBL. The intervention did not cause a delay in the start of antibiotics in the emergency department. Conclusions: A strategy of continuous feedback to general practitioners regarding the quality of antibiotic prescription reduces consumption of antibiotics without causing changes in diagnosis opportunity or the beginning of antibiotics in sepsis and can impact favorably the resistance profile of the institutional microbial flora.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The skin surface is inhabited by microorganisms responsible for the biochemical balance; some are pathogenic and persist despite hand washing. Objective: To identify, in university students, the bacterial flora resistant to hand washing. Methods: A longitudinal, analytical and observational study was carried out, for which university students were included who previously received educational talks on hand hygiene. Samples were taken before and after hand washing. Results: Of 80 samples analyzed, Staphylococcus epidermidis was identified as the most frequent in 95% of the students and, with hand washing, it was reduced to 60%. The second agent was Staphylococcus saprophyticcus, present in 75% of the cases and, after hand washing, in 35%. E. coli occupied the third position, as it was found in 42.5% of the samples and, after hand hygiene, it was reduced to 17.5%. For transient agents like Klebsiella (P<0.05) and Pseudomonas, handwashing was more effective; however, E. coli was the enterobacterium that remained elevated despite hand hygiene (P=0.01). Conclusion: Some E. coli colonies are resistant to hand washing, similar to resident agents such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus saprophyticcus and Staphylococcus aureus.

RESUMEN Introducción: En la superficie cutánea residen microorganismos responsables del balance bioquímico, algunas son patógenas y persisten a pesar del lavado de manos. Objetivo: Identificar la flora bacteriana resistente al lavado de manos en estudiantes universitarios. Métodos: Se realizó el estudio observacional analítico de tipo longitudinal, para esto se enrolaron a estudiantes universitarios que recibieron previamente charlas educativas sobre higiene de manos, posteriormente se tomaron muestras antes y después del lavado de las manos. Resultados: De 80 muestras analizadas se identificó a Staphylococcus epidermidis como el más frecuente en 95 % de los estudiantes y con el lavado de manos se redujo a 60 %; el segundo agente fue Staphylococcus saprophyticcus, que estuvo presente en 75 % de los casos y después del lavado, en 35 %; E. coli ocupó el tercer lugar, se encontró en 42,5 % de las muestras y tras la higiene de manos se redujo a 17,5 %. Para los agentes transitorios como Klebsiella (p < 0,05) y Pseudomonas, el lavado de manos fue más efectivo; sin embargo, E. coli fue la enterobacteria que permaneció elevada a pesar de la higiene de manos (p = 0,01). Conclusión: Algunas colonias de E. coli son resistentes al lavado de manos, similar a los agentes residentes como Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus saprophyticcus y Staphylococcus aureus.

Resumen El género Gemella spp corresponde a cocos gram positivos, anaerobios facultativos, catalasa negativos, no móviles y no formadores de esporas, usualmente comensales de la cavidad oral, que no suelen ser patógenos en pacientes inmunocompetentes. Sin embargo, puede comportarse como germen oportunista en pacientes inmunosuprimidos o con otros factores de riesgo como mala higiene dental, cirugía gastrointestinal, enfermedades metabólicas entre otras, y se asocia con endocarditis, meningitis y en menor medida compromiso pulmonar. La información respecto a la susceptibilidad antimicrobiana es limitada y se asemeja a la de S viridans, por lo que la penicilina y ampicilina son los medicamentos de elección, sin tener claridad en cuanto a duración del tratamiento, usualmente considerando llevar a 4 semanas o hasta el drenaje de la colección. Éste reporte de caso describe una paciente con tuberculosis en tratamiento, que desarrolla una infección invasiva con documentación de empiema y bacteriemia secundaria por Gemella morbillorum, representando la asociación poco común de ésta infección bacteriana con tuberculosis.

Abstract Gemella spp. corresponds to gram positive cocci, facultative anaerobes, negative catalase, non mobile and non spore producers, part of colonizing flora of the oral cavity that are not common pathogens in immunocompetent patients. Nevertheless it may behave as an opportunistic germ in immunosuppressed patients or with other risk factors that include bad dental hygiene, bowel surgery, and metabolic diseases among others. It’s associated with infections such as endocarditis, meningitis and less frecuently can implicate the lung. The information regarding antimicrobial susceptibility is limited and resembles S viridans, so penicillin and ampicillin are the medications of choice, without being clear about the duration of treatment, usually giving 4 weeks or until collection drain. This case report describes a patient with known tuberculosis diagnosis and under treatment, that develops an invasive infection with empyema and secondary bloodstream infection by Gemella morbillorum, depicting a previously uncommon but described association of this bacterial infection with tuberculosis.