Background: In November 2020, similar to other European countries, Portugal implemented a tiered restrictions system to control the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to compare the COVID-19 growth rate across tiers to assess the effect of a tiered restrictions system in Portugal, using models with different times between tiers assessment. Our hypothesis was that being in a higher tier brings a faster deceleration in ...
Background: Identifying symptom clusters in Long COVID is necessary for developing effective therapies for this diverse condition and improving the quality of life of those affected by this heterogeneous condition. In this study, we aimed to identify and compare symptom clusters at 9 and 12 months after a SARS-CoV-2 positive test and describe each cluster regarding factors at infection. Methods: This is a cross...
Objectives: This study aimed to systematically appraise risk factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in high-income countries during the period of predominance of the Alpha variant (January 2020 to April 2021). Methods: Four electronic databases were used to search observational studies. Literature search, study screening, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by two authors independently. ...
Background: Diagnosis delay contributes to increased tuberculosis (TB) transmission and morbimortality. TB incidence has been decreasing in Portugal, but median patient delay (PD) has risen. Symptom valorisation may determine PD by influencing help-seeking behaviour. We aimed to analyse the association between symptom valorisation and PD, while characterising individuals who disregarded their symptoms. Methods:...
Approximately 10% of patients experience symptoms of Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC) after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Akin acute COVID-19, PCC may impact a multitude of organs and systems, such as the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, and neurological systems. The frequency and associated risk factors of PCC are still unclear among both community and hospital settings in individuals with a history of COV...
Introduction: Due to improvements in medical care, children with complex chronic diseases are living longer. Pediatric palliative care should be offered to these children and their families. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of health care professionals of a pediatric department toward pediatric palliative care and identify the possible barriers to the referral of patients. Method...
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system characterized by immune-mediated demyelination and axonal damage predominantly targeting optic nerves and spinal cord. We report a case of an 11-year-old boy, admitted with suspected viral meningitis. 24 hours after admission he developed bladder dysfunction and progressive ascendant sensory loss. The brain ...
Introduction: Postoperative pain in children is sometimes inadequately prevented and treated. Analgesics are mainly administered through intravenous route yet regional analgesia can also be used. The purpose of this study is to better understand the effects of combining epidural with standard analgesia in achieving postoperative pain relief. Methods: Retrospective chart review of postoperative pediatric patient...
Introduction : Wernicke Encephalopathy (WE) is an acute neurological disorder caused by thiamine deficiency. Usually associated with alcoholism in adults, WE can also occur in children with other etiologies.1 The classic triad of symptoms is present in a small number of patients. As a medical emergency, once suspected, high doses thiamine treatment should be started in order to decrease comorbidities and improv...