[All Roads Lead to Rome: Results of Non-Invasive Respiratory Therapies Applied in a Tertiary-Care Hospital Without an Intermediate Care Unit During the COVID-19 Pandemic]

Introduction

Non-invasive respiratory therapies (NRT) were widely used in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in different settings, depending on availability. The objective of our study was to present 90-day survival and associated factors in patients treated with NRT in a tertiary hospital without an Intermediate Respiratory Care Unit. The secondary objective was to compare the outcomes of the different therapies.

Methods

Observational study of patients treated with NRT outside of an intensive care or intermediate respiratory care unit setting, diagnosed with COVID-19 and acute respiratory distress syndrome by radiological criteria and SpO2/FiO2 ratio. A multivariate logistic regression model was developed to determine independently associated variables, and the outcomes of high flow nasal cannula and continuous positive airway pressure were compared.

Results

In total, 107 patients were treated and 85 (79.4%) survived at 90 days. Before starting NRT, the mean SpO2/FiO2 ratio was 119.8 ± 59.4. A higher SOFA score was significantly associated with mortality (OR 2,09; 95% CI 1.34-3.27), while self-pronation was a protective factor (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.06-0.91). High flow nasal cannula was used in 63 subjects (58.9%), and continuous positive airway pressure in 41 (38.3%), with no differences between them.

Conclusion

Approximately 4 out of 5 patients treated with NRT survived to 90 days, and no significant differences were found between high flow nasal cannula and continuous positive airway pressure.

Marginal Keratitis with Secondary Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis After Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) After Initiation of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy

Marginal keratitis, also known as catarrhal infiltrates, is a common, self-limiting condition characterized by inflammation at the peripheral aspect of the cornea. This non-infectious process is most typically a reaction to bacteria such as Staphylococcus, and results from a cell-mediated immune response to the bacterial antigens. This hypersensitivity reaction leads to the formation of stromal infiltrates that run parallel to the limbus. These infiltrates may extend around the limbal edge and can lead to the formation of marginal ulcers. Often the patient will have associated blepharoconjunctivitis. Both marginal keratitis and blepharoconjunctivitis are treated with topical steroids, with or without antibiotics, and good lid hygiene. We report a case of a patient who previously underwent small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) who presented with marginal keratitis and secondary diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) in the right eye following recent initiation of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. There was no antecedent ocular trauma. With the initiation of steroid therapy, the patient returned to baseline visual acuity within one week. Though recurrence may be common in cases of marginal keratitis, our patient has not had any recurrence of symptoms or disease. DLK has previously been reported in the literature; however, there has been no reported case of marginal keratitis with secondary DLK after initiation of CPAP therapy to date.

Effect of CPAP Therapy on Kidney Function in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

OSA is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may accelerate a decline in kidney function. It is not clear whether treatment of OSA with CPAP improves kidney function.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Does treatment with CPAP improve kidney function in patients with CKD and coexisting OSA?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A randomized, controlled, nonblinded, parallel clinical trial was performed of patients with stages 3 and 4 CKD and coexisting OSA comparing the effect of CPAP vs usual care on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the urine albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR) over 12 months.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients were enrolled and 30 were randomized to CPAP. They had moderately severe CKD (eGFR, 38.4 ± 1.5 mL/min/1.73 m²) and significant OSA and nocturnal hypoxemia (oxygen desaturation index: 23.9 events/h; interquartile range [IQR], 20.3 events/h; mean peripheral capillary oxygen saturation: 89.5%; IQR, 1.7%); 60% had baseline albuminuria (ACR, > 3 mg/mmol). No significant difference was found between CPAP and usual care in the change in eGFR and ACR over 12 months. Although some improvement in eGFR occurred with CPAP therapy in patients with a lower risk of CKD progression, this did not reach statistical significance.

INTERPRETATION

Although CPAP did not provide additional renal benefits over usual care in all CKD patients, some evidence suggested that CPAP slowed the decline in eGFR in CKD patients with a lower risk of CKD progression. These preliminary data support the need for larger clinical trials exploring the effects of CPAP on kidney function.

TRIAL REGISTRY

ClinicalTrials.gov; No.: NCT02420184; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Adherence to Positive Airway Pressure Therapy in Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Because of the prevalence of extreme obesity in the United States, there has been an increase in prevalence of obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). There is limited information on the characteristics and pattern of positive airway pressure (PAP) adherence in patients with OHS compared with eucapnic patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This article discusses in detail the impact of PAP therapy on outcomes in patients with OHS, compares adherence between continuous PAP and noninvasive ventilation in OHS, and compares PAP adherence in patients with OHS to patients with moderate to severe OSA enrolled in clinical trials designed to improve CPAP adherence.

Continuous positive airway pressure treatment and anxiety in adults with coronary artery disease and nonsleepy obstructive sleep apnea in the RICCADSA trial

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) coexist among adults with coronary artery disease (CAD) following revascularization. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the first line treatment of OSA patients with daytime sleepiness. The current study evaluated the effect of CPAP on anxiety in CAD patients with nonsleepy OSA.

METHODS

Two hundred forty-four revascularized CAD patients with nonsleepy OSA (apnea-hypopnea index ≥15/h, Epworth Sleepiness Scale score <10) were randomly assigned to CPAP or no-CPAP between 2005 and 2010. Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) was administered at baseline and after 3 and 12 months with higher scores suggesting more anxiety.

RESULTS

A total of 208 patients with complete SAS scores at baseline and 12-month follow-up were included (CPAP, n = 103; no-CPAP, n = 105). In the intention-to-treat analysis, CPAP had no significant effect on the SAS scores. On-treatment analysis revealed a significant increase in the median of delta SAS score (+3.75) after three months among the participants using the device 2.8 h/day or more while there was a decline in the median of delta SAS score (-1.25) in the non-adherent or no-CPAP group (p = 0.031). The increase in the SAS score (+1.25) in the adherent group, and the decline (-1.25 points) in the non-adherent/no-CPAP group remained significant after one year (p = 0.011). Baseline SAS score predicted non-adherence [adjusted odds ratio 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-1.18; p = 0.003], and there was an association between the increase in the SAS scores and accumulated CPAP hours/day [standardized β = 0.144 (95% CI 0.005-0.695), p = 0.047].

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that anxiety should be considered in the management of CAD patients with nonsleepy OSA following revascularization.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT00519597.

Successful use of an improvised bubble CPAP device for severe respiratory distress caused by pulmonary tuberculosis

Introduction

This case report discusses the successful use of an improvised bubble continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) apparatus made using items commonly available in a poorly resourced district hospital.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old female with no co-morbidities presented with respiratory failure due to pulmonary tuberculosis and was not accepted into the regional Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on referral. She required 8 days of improvised bubble CPAP to maintain adequate oxygen saturation before weaning and eventual discharge.

Discussion

Improvised bubble CPAP is commonly used in neonatal care in developing countries and well described in literature however, there are no reports of its successful use in adult patients. In the absence of access to ICU or other Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) equipment, improvised bubble CPAP may provide some therapeutic benefit.

Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to obstructive sleep apnea therapy: A case report

Telemedicine and remote monitoring are valuable tools to address inadequate obstructive sleep apnea compliance during the current pandemic.

[Alternative CPAP methods for the treatment of secondary serious respiratory failure due to pneumonia by COVID-19]

Introducción

El uso de dispositivos que aportan presión positiva continua en la vía aérea ha demostrado mejoría en diversas patologías que producen insuficiencia respiratoria. En el episodio de pandemia por COVID-19, el uso de estos dispositivos se ha generalizado, pero, debido a la escasez de dispositivos convencionales de presión positiva continua en la vía aérea (CPAP), se han fabricado dispositivos alternativos. El objetivo de este estudio es describir el uso de estos, así como su eficacia.

Material y métodos

Se recogen datos de pacientes ingresados por neumonía por COVID-19 en el Hospital de Campaña de IFEMA, así como datos de pacientes con insuficiencia respiratoria y necesidad de soporte ventilatorio.

Resultados

Estudio realizado sobre un total de 23 pacientes, con fecha de ingreso de entre el 24 de marzo y el 28 de abril en IFEMA. Se empleó CPAP alternativa en cinco pacientes (21,7%), mientras que, en los 18 restantes (78,3%) se usó un soporte ventilatorio con mascarilla reservorio o Ventimask efecto Venturi. Se observó un aumento progresivo de la saturación en aquellos pacientes en los que se empleó CPAP alternativa (de 94% de promedio a 98 y 99% de promedio, tras 30 y 60 minutos con la máscara, respectivamente), aunque este cambio no resultó significativo (p = 0,058 y p = 0,122, respectivamente). De igual manera, no se observó un cambio significativo de frecuencia respiratoria al inicio y al final de la medición en pacientes que usaron CPAP alternativa (p = 0,423) pero sí entre los que no la usaron (p = 0,001). Se observó una mejoría estadísticamente significativa en la variable de saturación de oxígeno/fracción inspirado de oxígeno en los pacientes que usaron CPAP alternativa (p = 0,040).

Conclusión

El uso de estos dispositivos ha ayudado al trabajo ventilatorio de varios pacientes, mejorando sus parámetros de oxigenación. Para observar mejor la evolución de los pacientes sometidos a esta terapia y compararlos con pacientes con otro tipo de soporte ventilatorio, son necesarios más estudios en los que se aleatorice su uso.

CPAP adherence reduces cardiovascular risk among older adults with obstructive sleep apnea

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To examine (1) the impact of adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on risk for cardiovascular (CVD) events among a nationally representative sample of older adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and (2) the heterogeneity of this effect across subgroups defined by race, sex, and socioeconomic status.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among Medicare beneficiaries aged ≥ 65 years with OSA (2009-2013). Monthly indicators of CPAP adherence (charges for machines, masks, or supplies) were summed over 25 months to create a CPAP adherence variable. New CVD events (ischemic heart disease, cardiac and peripheral procedures) were modeled as a function of CPAP adherence using generalized estimating equations. Heterogeneity of the effect of CPAP on new CVD events was evaluated based on race, sex, and socioeconomic status.

RESULTS

Among 5024 beneficiaries diagnosed with OSA who initiated CPAP, 1678 (33%) demonstrated new CVD events. Following adjustment for demographic and clinical characteristics, CPAP adherence was associated with reduced risk of new CVD events (hazard ratio 0.95; 95% confidence interval 0.94, 0.96) over 25 months. When analyses were stratified by time since the first CPAP charge, the protective effect remained significant for the 12- and 6-month, but not 3-month, outcome models. No significant differences were observed in the protective effect of CPAP based on race, sex, or socioeconomic status.

CONCLUSIONS

In this national study of older adult Medicare beneficiaries with OSA, CPAP adherence was associated with greatly reduced risk for CVD events. This risk reduction was consistent across race, sex, and socioeconomic subgroups.

Efficacy of noninvasive respiratory support modes for primary respiratory support in preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome: Systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy of different noninvasive respiratory support (NRS) modes for primary respiratory support of preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

DESIGN

Systematic review and network meta-analysis using the Bayesian random-effects approach. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched.

INTERVENTIONS

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), bilevel CPAP (BiPAP), noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation (MV), any treatment failure.

RESULTS

A total of 35 studies including 4078 neonates were included. NIPPV was more effective in decreasing the requirement of MV than CPAP (risk ratios [95% credible interval]: 0.60 [0.44, 0.77]) and HFNC [0.66 (0.43, 0.97)]. Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) for NIPPV, BiPAP, HFNC, and CPAP were 0.95, 0.59, 0.32, and 0.13. For the outcome of treatment failure, both NIPPV and BiPAP were more efficacious compared to CPAP and HFNC (0.56 [0.44, 0.71] {NIPPV vs CPAP}, 0.69 [0.51, 0.93] {BiPAP vs CPAP}, 0.42 [0.30, 0.63] {NIPPV vs HFNC}, 0.53 [0.35, 0.81] {BiPAP vs HFNC}). The SUCRA for NIPPV, BiPAP, CPAP, and HFNC were 0.96, 0.70, 0.32, and 0.01. NIPPV was associated with a reduced risk of air leak compared to BiPAP and CPAP (0.36 [0.16, 0.73]; 0.54 [0.30, 0.87], respectively). NIPPV resulted in lesser incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia or mortality when compared to CPAP (0.74 [0.52, 0.98]). Nasal injury was lesser with HFNC compared to CPAP (0.15 [0.01, 0.60]).

CONCLUSIONS

Most effective primary mode of NRS in preterm neonates with RDS was NIPPV.

Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Choosing the Best Positive Airway Pressure Device

Positive airway pressure (PAP) remains primary therapy for most patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). CPAP, APAP, and BPAP are all reasonable therapies that can be used for patients with uncomplicated OSA across the spectrum of disease severity. BPAP should be considered for patients who are nonadherent to CPAP or APAP therapy because of pressure intolerance. Several additional factors should be considered when choosing the type of PAP device for a given patient, including associated symptoms and comorbid medical problems, cost, access to online data management and patient portals, and the portability for the device for patients who travel frequently.

The impact of OSA and CPAP treatment on cell adhesion molecules' night-morning variation

PURPOSE

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been related to vascular inflammation and production of endothelial cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). We aimed to determine night-morning variation of CAMs in patients with OSA compared to controls and the effect of one-night continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on them.

METHODS

Nonsmoking men went through a full-attended polysomnography (PSG) study. Participants with moderate to severe OSA went through another PSG study while being treated with CPAP. Participants who did not have OSA composed the control group. Serum levels of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin were measured before and after sleep on both nights.

RESULTS

Of 30 men, 20 had moderate to severe OSA while 10 did not. Night and morning ICAM-1 levels of patients with OSA were significantly higher than controls (p = 0.002 and p < 0.0001 respectively), while both night and morning VCAM-1 and E-selectin levels were not. Morning ICAM-1 levels of controls were significantly lower than night levels (p = 0.031), while morning ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin levels of patients with OSA and morning VCAM-1 and E-selectin levels of controls were not. After CPAP treatment, the morning ICAM-1 levels, but not VCAM-1 levels, of patients with OSA were significantly lower than night levels (p = 0.006) and E-selectin levels showed a tendency for reduction (p = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

OSA is associated with elevated night and morning ICAM-1 levels in adult men with OSA. Even one night of CPAP treatment restores the normal night-morning variation of ICAM-1 levels and may have an effect on E-selectin levels, as well.

Pitolisant for Residual Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in OSA Patients Adhering to CPAP: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in individuals with OSA syndrome persisting despite good adherence to CPAP is a disabling condition. Pitolisant is a selective histamine H3-receptor antagonist with wake-promoting effects.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is pitolisant effective and safe for reducing daytime sleepiness in individuals with moderate to severe OSA adhering to CPAP treatment but experiencing residual EDS?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In a multicenter, double-blind, randomized (3:1), placebo-controlled, parallel-design trial, pitolisant was titrated individually at up to 20 mg/day and taken over 12 weeks. The primary end point was change in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score in the intention-to-treat population. Key secondary end points were maintenance of wakefulness assessed by the Oxford Sleep Resistance Test, Clinical Global Impressions scale of severity, the patient's global opinion, EuroQoL quality-of-life questionnaire score, Pichot fatigue questionnaire score, and safety.

RESULTS

Two hundred forty-four OSA participants (82.8% men; mean age, 53.1 years; mean Apnea Hypopnea Index with CPAP, 4.2/h; baseline ESS score, 14.7) were randomized to pitolisant (n = 183) or placebo (n = 61). ESS significantly decreased with pitolisant compared with placebo (-2.6; 95% CI, -3.9 to -1.4; P < .001), and the rate of responders to therapy (ESS ≤ 10 or change in ESS ≥ 3) was significantly higher with pitolisant (71.0% vs 54.1%; P = .013). Adverse event occurrence (mainly headache and insomnia) was higher in the pitolisant group compared with the placebo group (47.0% and 32.8%, respectively; P = .03). No cardiovascular or other significant safety concerns were reported.

INTERPRETATION

Pitolisant used as adjunct to CPAP therapy for OSA with residual sleepiness despite good CPAP adherence significantly reduced subjective and objective sleepiness and improved participant-reported outcomes and physician-reported disease severity.

TRIAL REGISTRY

ClinicalTrials.gov; No.: NCT01071876; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov; EudraCT N°: 2009-017248-14; URL: eudract.ema.europa.eu.

Effect of continuous positive airway pressure on symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

Purpose

The objective was to assess the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We hypothesized a decrease in symptoms at follow-up, but that improvement relied on CPAP adherence.

Methods

The sample comprised 468 patients (mean age 55.5 years (SD = 12.0), 72% men) with OSA who received CPAP at a Norwegian hospital. OSA was diagnosed according to standard respiratory polygraphy. Mean baseline respiratory event index (REI) was 28.4 (SD = 20.6). Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed prior to CPAP treatment and at follow-up after a median of 20 weeks, range 6–52 weeks, with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Patients were classified as CPAP adherent (≥ 4 h per night) or non-adherent (< 4 h per night).

Results

There was a significant decrease in anxiety scores from baseline (mean = 5.16, SD = 3.94) to follow-up (mean = 4.76, SD = 3.81), p < 0.001. Similarly, depression scores decreased from baseline (mean = 4.31, SD = 3.66) to follow-up (mean = 3.89, SD = 3.69), p < 0.001. Cohen’s d (0.19 and 0.18, respectively) indicated small effect sizes. The reduction in anxiety scores did not depend on CPAP adherence (no interaction effect F(1, 466) = 0.422, p = 0.516), whereas the reduction in depression scores were seen only in the CPAP adherent group (interaction effect F(1, 466) = 7.738, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

We found a decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression from baseline to follow-up of CPAP treatment. The improvement in symptoms of depression was depending on CPAP adherence. This underlines the importance of adherence for optimal effect of CPAP treatment.

Obstructive sleep apnea in sarcoidosis and impact of cpap treatment on fatigue

Rationale

An increased incidence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in sarcoidosis has been described in small sample size studies. Fatigue is common in sarcoidosis and OSA could be a relevant, treatable comorbidity. To date, the effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) on fatigue has never been assessed.

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of OSA in sarcoidosis, fatigue status and daytime sleepiness in patients of our center. To explore the effect of CPAP in fatigue and daytime sleepiness after 3 months using validated questionnaires.

Method

Single group, one center, open-label prospective cohort study.

Measurements and main result

We enrolled 68 patients and OSA was diagnosed in 60 (88.2%): 25 (36.8%) were mild while 35 (51.5%) were moderate-to-severe. 38 (55.9%) patients received CPAP but only 20 (30.9%) were compliant at 3-month evaluation. Questionnaires demonstrated fatigue in 34 (50%) and daytime sleepiness in 21 (30.9%). In multivariate regression analysis, Scadding stage and FAS behave as predictors of Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) severity while sleepiness and steroids weren't associated. FAS score (Δ_FAS = 6.3; p = 0.001) and ESS score (Δ_ESS = 2.8; p = 0.005) improved after three months of CPAP.

Conclusions

OSA is highly prevalent in patients affected by sarcoidosis. ESS questionnaire is not reliable for OSA screening and other pre-test probability tool should be evaluated in further studies. CPAP leads to a significative reduction of fatigue and daytime sleepiness at three-month. Further studies are needed to confirm the high prevalence of OSA in sarcoidosis and the positive role of CPAP in fatigue. (Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis 2020; 37 (2): 169-178).

[Sleep disordered breathing in patients with chronic heart failure: prognosis and management]

Sleep disordered breathing is a frequent comorbidity (50-75%) in patients with chronic heart failure, but it is usually underestimated. This review analyzes sleep disordered breathing in patients with chronic heart failure, demonstrates pathogenetic relationships and the prognostic role of sleep apnea. The authors present modern treatment options for sleep apnea in this cohort (from non-invasive ventilation to implantable devices), highlight the role of drug therapy and outline perspectives of different treatment approaches. This clinical problem is designated as multidisciplinary, which requires a dialogue between researchers and doctors of various specialties to organize comprehensive effective care for this cohort of patients.

Rise in nocturnal respiratory rate during CPAP may be an early sign of COVID-19 in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

None

A middle-aged man with obstructive sleep apnea who had been treated with continuous positive airway pressure developed COVID-19. An analysis of airflow records from the continuous positive airway pressure machine revealed a rise in his respiratory rate on the night before the onset of COVID-19-related symptoms, while his nocturnal respiratory rate had been stable during the 18-month period prior to the presently reported episode. The present case suggests that a rise in respiratory rate detected using continuous positive airway pressure machine data could be an important sign of impending acute illness, such as COVID-19. Studies to elucidate the usefulness of this method are warranted.

The Prevalence and Incidence of Dry Eye Disease Among Patients Using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or Other Nasal Mask Therapy Devices to Treat Sleep Apnea

Introduction

Dry eye disease (DED) prevalence is estimated at 9.3% of the US adult population, although diagnosed rate is much lower. This study examined real-world incidence rates (IR) and prevalence rates (PR) of DED in adults using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or nasal mask therapy (NMT) devices to treat sleep apnea.

Methods

Using IBM MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Supplemental claims databases, this study identified adults with ≥1 claim of CPAP or other NMT device between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2018, ≥1 diagnosis of sleep apnea during a 12-month pre-index period, and continuous benefit enrollment ≥12 pre- and post-index date. The date of the first CPAP or NMT device claim was considered the index date. Descriptive analyses included PR, IR, and IR per 100-person years (100PY) for the overall population and subgroups including age, sex, and baseline comorbidities.

Results

The 1-, 2-, and 3-year PR of DED was 6.2%, 10.0%, and 13.0%, while the IR of DED was 4.0%, 7.3%, and 10.3%, respectively. Females had a higher IR of DED compared to males: 5.8%, 10.8%, and 15.1% vs 3.0%, 5.4%, and 7.9%, respectively. DED increased with age with a 1-, 2-, and 3-year PR for patients aged 18–24 years of 2.2%, 3.4%, and 5.0% vs 17.6%, 25.8%, and 32.1% in patients aged ≥75, respectively. Overall, IR per 100PY of DED was 3.68, higher for females than males (5.51 vs 2.73). PR and IR of DED were high among patients with comorbid inflammatory or metabolic conditions.

Conclusion

The PR and IR of DED in CPAP or NMT users were higher than the reported prevalence of DED in the general population. CPAP/NMT users who were female, older, or had comorbid inflammatory or metabolic conditions may experience a higher incidence and prevalence of DED.

Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea in sleep consultations in Burkina Faso: Implications for monitoring

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is the most common respiratory disorder related to sleep. Its prevalence in developed countries varies from 3% to 28%. In several African countries, including Burkina Faso, this syndrome is still under-diagnosed and goes largely untreated. It is necessary to conduct studies in different contexts to determine the characteristics and develop the strategies for management of OSAS.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of OSAS in Burkina Faso.

METHODS

This prospective study recruited 106 patients coming for consultation for sleep disorders at the Yalgado Ouedraogo University Hospital Center, who responded to a self-questionnaire and were diagnosed by respiratory polygraphy.

RESULTS

A total of 77 patients (72.6%) had OSAS. The male to female ratio was 1.4:1 and the mean (standard deviation) age was 47.8 (12.8) years. The majority of the patients (53.8%) were obese. The main reason for consultation was snoring (84%), followed by hypopnea-apnoea reported (59.4%) and daytime sleepiness (45.3%). The most common comorbidity factor was hypertension (50%), followed by decreased libido (16%) and diabetes (13.2%). A continuous positive-pressure (CPAP) machine was prescribed to 51.25% of the patients, but only 22% were able to acquire it.

CONCLUSION

The monitoring of OSAS is relatively new in Burkina Faso. This study showed the profile of patients with OSAS and difficulties in accessing continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices for treatment.

SAS CARE 2 - a randomized study of CPAP in patients with obstructive sleep disordered breathing following ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack

Objective/background

The benefit of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment following ischemic stroke in patients with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is unclear. We set out to investigate this open question in a randomized controlled trial as part of the SAS-CARE study.

Patients/methods.

Non-sleepy patients (ESS < 10) with ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and obstructive SDB (AHI ≥ 20) 3 months post-stroke were randomized 1:1 to CPAP treatment (CPAP+) or standard care. Primary outcome was the occurrence of vascular events (TIA/stroke, myocardial infarction/revascularization, hospitalization for heart failure or unstable angina) or death within 24 months post-stroke. Secondary outcomes included Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel Index.

Results

Among 238 SAS-CARE patients 41 (17%) non-sleepy obstructive SDB patients were randomized to CPAP (n = 19) or standard care (n = 22). Most patients (80%) had stroke and were males (78%), mean age was 64 ± 7 years and mean NIHSS score 0.6 ± 1.0 (range: 0–5). The primary endpoint was met by one patient in the standard care arm (a new stroke). In an intent-to treat analysis disregarding adherence, this corresponds to an absolute risk difference of 4.5% or an NNT = 22. mRS and Barthel Index were stable and similar between arms. CPAP adherence was sufficient in 60% of evaluable patients at month 24.

Conclusion

No benefit of CPAP started three months post-stroke was found in terms of new cardio- and cerebrovascular events over 2 years. This may be related to the small size of this study, the mild stoke severity, the exclusion of sleepy patients, the delayed start of treatment, and the overall low event rate.

•

No benefit of CPAP started 3 months post-stroke was found.

•

A sufficient CPAP compliance was observed over 2 years in 60% of patients.

•

Studies of CPAP in mild stroke need to be large and include long-term outcomes.

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea have suppressed levels of soluble cytokine receptors involved in neurodegenerative disease, but normal levels with airways therapy

Purpose

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) results in systemic intermittent hypoxia. By one model, hypoxic stress signaling in OSA patients alters the levels of inflammatory soluble cytokines TNF and IL6, damages the blood brain barrier, and activates microglial targeting of neuronal cell death to increase the risk of neurodegenerative disorders and other diseases. However, it is not yet clear if OSA significantly alters the levels of the soluble isoforms of TNF receptors TNFR1 and TNFR2 and IL6 receptor (IL6R) and co-receptor gp130, which have the potential to modulate TNF and IL6 signaling.

Methods

Picogram per milliliter levels of the soluble isoforms of these four cytokine receptors were estimated in OSA patients, in OSA patients receiving airways therapy, and in healthy control subjects. Triplicate samples were examined using Bio-Plex fluorescent bead microfluidic technology. The statistical significance of cytokine data was estimated using the nonparametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test. The clustering of these high-dimensional data was visualized using t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE).

Results

OSA patients had significant twofold to sevenfold reductions in the soluble serum isoforms of all four cytokine receptors, gp130, IL6R, TNFR1, and TNFR2, as compared with control individuals (p = 1.8 × 10⁻¹³ to 4 × 10⁻⁸). Relative to untreated OSA patients, airways therapy of OSA patients had significantly higher levels of gp130 (p = 2.8 × 10⁻¹³), IL6R (p = 1.1 × 10⁻⁹), TNFR1 (p = 2.5 × 10⁻¹⁰), and TNFR2 (p = 5.7 × 10⁻⁹), levels indistinguishable from controls (p = 0.29 to 0.95). The data for most airway-treated patients clustered with healthy controls, but the data for a few airway-treated patients clustered with apneic patients.

Conclusions

Patients with OSA have aberrantly low levels of four soluble cytokine receptors associated with neurodegenerative disease, gp130, IL6R, TNFR1, and TNFR2. Most OSA patients receiving airways therapy have receptor levels indistinguishable from healthy controls, suggesting a chronic intermittent hypoxia may be one of the factors contributing to low receptor levels in untreated OSA patients.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s11325-020-02205-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The effect of postoperative respiratory and mobilization interventions on postoperative complications following abdominal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Up to 30% of patients undergoing abdominal surgery suffer from postoperative pulmonary complications. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analyses was to investigate whether postoperative respiratory interventions and mobilization interventions compared with usual care can prevent postoperative complications following abdominal surgery.

METHODS

The review was conducted in line with PRISMA and GRADE guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase, and PEDRO were searched for randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing postoperative respiratory interventions and mobilization interventions with usual care in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Meta-analyses with trial sequential analysis on the outcome pulmonary complications were performed. Review registration: PROSPERO (identifier: CRD42019133629) RESULTS: Pulmonary complications were addressed in 25 studies containing 2068 patients. Twenty-three studies were included in the meta-analyses. Patients predominantly underwent open elective upper abdominal surgery. Postoperative respiratory interventions consisted of expiratory resistance modalities (CPAP, EPAP, BiPAP, NIV), assisted inspiratory flow modalities (IPPB, IPAP), patient-operated ventilation modalities (spirometry, PEP), and structured breathing exercises. Meta-analyses found that ventilation with high expiratory resistance (CPAP, EPAP, BiPAP, NIV) reduced the risk of pulmonary complications with OR 0.42 (95% CI 0.18-0.97, p = 0.04, I² = 0%) compared with usual care, however, the trial sequential analysis revealed that the required information size was not met. Neither postoperative assisted inspiratory flow therapy, patient-operated ventilation modalities, nor breathing exercises reduced the risk of pulmonary complications.

CONCLUSION

The use of postoperative expiratory resistance modalities (CPAP, EPAP, BiPAP, NIV) after abdominal surgery might prevent pulmonary complications and it seems the preventive abilities were largely driven by postoperative treatment with CPAP.

Determinants of bilevel therapy in the management of obstructive sleep apnea

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate potential patient or polysomnogram (PSG) characteristics that can help determine who might benefit from bilevel positive airway pressure (BPAP) in the treatment of uncomplicated OSA.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a single center, retrospective, observational study in which 19 patients who met our inclusion criteria for BPAP were matched to 40 patients in the control group. Data on patient baseline characteristics as well as PSG results were analyzed.

RESULTS

Baseline patient and PSG characteristics were similar with the exception of shorter sleep time in the BPAP group, 290 min compared with 351 min (p = 0.005). Analysis of oxygen saturations revealed that the percent of total sleep time (TST) spent below 90% (SpO₂ < 90%) was statistically higher in BPAP group (mean 21.4% ± 23.6%) compared with CPAP (mean 9.1% ± 11.1%, p = 0.045). For every 5% increase in TST at SpO₂ < 90%, there is a 28% increase in the odds of BPAP prescription (OR = 1.276, 95%CI 1.029, 1.582, p = 0.027), and for every 10% increase, there is an increase of 63% (OR 1.627, 95%CI 1.058-2.502). The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test revealed a good fit (p = 0.23). The AUC was 0.7.

CONCLUSION

There is an association between duration of hypoxemia on the PSG and the likelihood of requiring BPAP for the treatment of uncomplicated OSA. More research is needed to understand the best patient-centered therapy when initiating PAP in the management of OSA.

Improving CPAP Adherence for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Practical Application Primer on CPAP Desensitization

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common medical condition with well-established morbidity and mortality. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a highly effective treatment prescribed to most individuals with OSA that has documented poor adherence rate for a variety of reasons including claustrophobia and discomfort. CPAP desensitization is an effective, simple, and brief treatment shown to improve adherence rates to CPAP.

METHODS

A psychologist specializing in behavioral sleep medicine developed this module focused on teaching medical residents the techniques of CPAP desensitization. The educational activity was an interactive 45-minute seminar which included a didactic component followed by a case presentation and interactive role-play. A postseminar survey was used to evaluate the content of the workshop, as well as growth in awareness and perception of knowledge and skills with a pre- to postworkshop evaluation.

RESULTS

In a survey of 25 primary care and psychiatry residents and sleep medicine fellows, 92% of respondents indicated that the topic of CPAP barriers and CPAP desensitization was important. Ratings of self-reported knowledge and skills improved nearly one-third following the workshop. Qualitative feedback indicated the utility and enthusiasm learners had for this topic.

DISCUSSION

The workshop on CPAP desensitization was a valuable tool that should be disseminated more widely to improve treatment adherence in the significant portion of the population that suffers from OSA which does not use adherence to positive airway pressure therapy. The workshop is applicable to other health professionals including medical students and nursing, social work, or psychology trainees.