Changes in Maternal Heart Rate Variability and Photoplethysmography Morphology after Corticosteroid Administration: A Prospective, Observational Study

Background: Owing to the association between dysfunctional maternal autonomic regulation and pregnancy complications, assessing non-invasive features reflecting autonomic activity-e.g., heart rate variability (HRV) and the morphology of the photoplethysmography (PPG) pulse wave-may aid in tracking maternal health. However, women with early pregnancy complications typically receive medication, such as corticosteroids, and the effect of corticosteroids on maternal HRV and PPG pulse wave morphology is not well-researched. Methods: We performed a prospective, observational study assessing the effect of betamethasone (a commonly used corticosteroid) on non-invasively assessed features of autonomic regulation. Sixty-one women with an indication for betamethasone were enrolled and wore a wrist-worn PPG device for at least four days, from which five-minute measurements were selected for analysis. A baseline measurement was selected either before betamethasone administration or sufficiently thereafter (i.e., three days after the last injection). Furthermore, measurements were selected 24, 48, and 72 h after betamethasone administration. HRV features in the time domain and frequency domain and describing heart rate (HR) complexity were calculated, along with PPG morphology features. These features were compared between the different days. Results: Maternal HR was significantly higher and HRV features linked to parasympathetic activity were significantly lower 24 h after betamethasone administration. Features linked to sympathetic activity remained stable. Furthermore, based on the PPG morphology features, betamethasone appears to have a vasoconstrictive effect. Conclusions: Our results suggest that administering betamethasone affects maternal autonomic regulation and cardiovasculature. Researchers assessing maternal HRV in complicated pregnancies should schedule measurements before or sufficiently after corticosteroid administration.

Roflumilast foam (Zoryve) for seborrheic dermatitis

The FDA has approved a 0.3% foam formulation of the phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitor roflumilast (Zoryve – Arcutis) for topical treatment of seborrheic dermatitis in patients ≥9 years old. Roflumilast is the first PDE4 inhibitor to be approved in the US for this indication.

Betamethasone transdermal administration combined with fractional Er:YAG lasers or microplasma radiofrequency technology improved hypertrophic scars: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study aims to compare the efficacy rates in treating hypertrophic scars among four distinct groups of patients who either underwent fractional Erbium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser or microplasma radiofrequency technology as standalone treatments or in combination with compound betamethasone transdermal administration.

METHOD

The study retrospectively examined 208 patients treated at our institution from April 2011 to December 2022 for hypertrophic scars, receiving no less than three treatments (with an interval of 8 weeks between each). The patients were categorized into four groups: the F group (treated with fractional Er:YAG laser), the F + B group (treated with fractional Er:YAG laser combined with compound betamethasone transdermal administration), the P group (treated with microplasma radiofrequency technology), and the P + B group (treated with microplasma radiofrequency technology combined with compound betamethasone transdermal administration). The therapeutic effects were evaluated based on the changes in the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) scores before and after treatment in these groups.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in the VSS scores among the four groups before treatment. After undergoing three sessions of the aforementioned four types of treatment, all groups showed a decrease in VSS scores, with average posttreatment VSS scores for the F group scored 5.15 ± 2.084, F + B group scored 3.7 ± 1.781, P group scored 4.41 ± 1.933, and P + B group scored 3.16 ± 1.775, respectively. With an increasing number of treatments, the total effective rate gradually increased in all four groups, and the combination treatment using compound betamethasone transdermal administration proved more effective than the standalone treatment.

CONCLUSION

All four treatments yielded favorable outcomes, with the combined therapy involving compound betamethasone transdermal administration proving more effective than the standalone treatments, meriting further clinical attention.

Antenatal corticosteroids: an updated assessment of anticipated benefits and potential risks

Antenatal steroid therapy is increasingly central to the obstetrical management of women at imminent risk of preterm birth. For women likely to deliver between 24 and 34 weeks' gestation, antenatal steroid therapy is the standard of care, conferring sizable benefits and few risks in high-resource environments when appropriately targeted. Recent studies have focused on antenatal steroid use in periviable and late preterm populations, and in term cesarean deliveries. As a result, antenatal steroid therapy has now been applied from 22 to 39+6 weeks of estimated gestational age. There is also an increased appreciation that the vast majority of randomized control data informing the use of antenatal steroids are derived from predominantly high-resource, White populations. Accordingly, a sizable amount of work has recently been undertaken to test how to safely use antenatal steroids in low- and middle-resource environments, wherein the often high rates of preterm birth make these low-cost, easily administered interventions an attractive proposition. It is likely underappreciated by the obstetrical and neonatal communities that the overall efficacy of antenatal steroid therapy is highly variable (including when preterm risk is accurately assessed), the treatment regimens used are largely arbitrary, dosing is suprapharmacologic for effect, and the benefit-risk balance is significantly and differentially modified by gestation. It is also very likely that the patients consenting to receive these treatments are similarly unaware of the complex balance of potential benefits and harms. Although a small number of follow-up studies present a generally benign picture of long-term antenatal steroid risk, several large, population-based retrospective studies have identified associations between antenatal steroid use, childhood mental disease, and newborn infections that warrant urgent attention. Of particular contemporary importance are emergent efforts to optimize antenatal steroid regimens on the basis of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the agents themselves, the need for better targeting of these potent drugs, and clear articulation of the potential benefits and harms of antenatal steroid use at differing stages of pregnancy and in different delivery contexts.

Comparison of Efficacy of Topical Betamethasone Dipropionate and Topical Minoxidil in Patients With Alopecia Areata

Background and objective Alopecia areata (AA) is a reiterative and nonscarring type of hair loss that can affect any hairy area of the body, particularly the scalp. It manifests as patchy or confluent hair loss with variations in demographics and ethnicity. There are numerous treatment options available, including topical and systemic steroids, topical minoxidil, dithranol, tacrolimus, psoralen and ultraviolet therapy (PUVA), contact immunotherapy, and oral immunosuppressive drugs. However, no previous contrast for efficacy is present between the topical betamethasone versus topical minoxidil alone in our population. This study aims to compare the efficacy of topical betamethasone dipropionate versus topical minoxidil in patients with AA. Methodology A nonrandomized controlled study was conducted at the Department of Dermatology, Jinnah Hospital Lahore, incorporating the data of patients between July 26, 2016, and January 26, 2017, after obtaining institutional ethical approval. One hundred patients with alopecia, either on the scalp or any other hairy part, from both genders, aged between 18 and 50 years, were included in the study. Two groups were created, and patients were assigned to these groups based on the clinician's choice. Group A patients were administered betamethasone dipropionate (0.05%) lotion twice daily on affected areas for 12 weeks. Group B patients were administered minoxidil (5%) solution twice daily on affected areas for 12 weeks. A four-week follow-up plan was followed. A five-point scale score system was used for alopecia grading. After 12 weeks, the hair regrowth score (RGS) was used to compare the efficacy of treatment between the two groups. Results A total of 100 patients with grades S1 to S3 AA of less than three months duration were enrolled. Two groups were created, with 50 patients in each group. The mean age in Group A was 29.08 ± 6.51 years, while in Group B, it was 29.38 ± 6.62 years. In Group A, there were 76% males and 24% females, while in Group B, there were 74% males and 26% females. Comparison of efficacy of topical betamethasone dipropionate versus topical minoxidil in patients with AA demonstrated a greater efficacy of 74% (Grade 3 and Grade 4 responses) in Group A, while in Group B, only 42% of patients showed efficacy. A statistically significant difference was found, with a P-value of 0.001. No serious side effects were noted. Conclusions Our study concluded that topical betamethasone dipropionate (0.05%) lotion has statistically significantly higher efficacy compared to topical minoxidil (5%) solution in patients with AA.

Association of Intrapartum Drugs with Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation: A Single-Center Retrospective Review

OBJECTIVE

 Spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) occurs commonly in extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANs; <30 weeks' GA). Early, concurrent neonatal use of indomethacin (Neo_IN) and hydrocortisone (Neo_HC) is a known risk for SIP. Mothers in premature labor often receive indomethacin (Mat_IN) for tocolysis and steroids (Mat_S) for fetal maturation. Coincidentally, ELGANs may receive Neo_IN or Neo_HC within the first week of life. There are limited data on the effect of combined exposures to maternal and neonatal medications. We hypothesized that proximity exposure to these medications may increase the risk of SIP.

STUDY DESIGN

 We reviewed the medical records of ELGANs from June 2014 to December 2019 at a single level III neonatal intensive care unit. We compared antenatal and postnatal indomethacin and steroid use between neonates with and without SIP. For analysis, chi-square, Student's t-test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used.

RESULTS

 Among 417 ELGANs, SIP was diagnosed in 23, predominantly in neonates < 26 weeks' GA (n = 21/126, 16.7%). Risk factors analysis focused on this GA cohort in which SIP was most prevalent. Mat_IN administration within 2 days of delivery increased SIP risk (odds ratio: 3; 95% confidence interval: 1.25-7.94; p = 0.036). Neo_HC was not independently associated with SIP (p = 0.38). A higher proportion of SIP group had close temporal exposure of Mat_IN and Neo_HC compared with the non-SIP group, though not statistically significant (14 vs. 7%, p = 0.24).

CONCLUSION

 Peripartum Mat_IN was associated with increased risk for SIP in this small study sample. Larger studies are needed to further delineate SIP risk from the interaction of peripartum maternal medication with early postnatal therapies and disease pathophysiology.

KEY POINTS

· Perinatal indomethacin is associated with SIP in preterm infants born at less than 26 weeks.. · Temporal proximity of prenatal/postnatal medication exposure matters.. · Indomethacin and Hydrocortisone the risks, benefits, and timing related to SIP..

Comparing the Intensity of Pain and Incidence of Flare Reaction Following Trigger Finger Injections Using Betamethasone and Methylprednisolone: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Considerable evidence supports corticosteroid injection as an effective treatment for trigger finger. One common side effect, the flare reaction, is a well-documented phenomenon of increased pain following steroid injections. Its incidence and intensity may be related to steroid composition. The purpose of this study was to determine whether betamethasone and methylprednisolone injections for trigger fingers have differing intensity of pain or incidence flare reaction.

METHODS

Patients with symptomatic trigger finger were recruited during their hand surgery visits. Patients were randomized into 2 treatment groups: betamethasone (40 mg) and methylprednisolone (6 mg) mixed with lidocaine 1%. Treatment group assignment was blinded to the patients and investigators. Visual analog scale pain measurements were taken prior to injection, 5 minutes postinjection, and daily thereafter for 7 days.

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients were randomized into the 2 treatment groups. Patients in the betamethasone group reported slightly higher baseline pain compared with the methylprednisolone group, but lower pain on day 1. None of the following days showed a statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of flare and severe flare reactions of betamethasone injections for trigger finger management was roughly double that of methylprednisolone, but this difference was not statistically significant. Further studies are required to evaluate the relative course of nonflare postinjection pain for different corticosteroid injections for trigger finger injections.

PRECeDe Pilot: Prevention of neonatal respiratory distress with antenatal corticosteroids before elective caesarean section in women with diabetes - a feasibility randomised trial

OBJECTIVE

The PRECeDe Pilot Trial was designed to determine the feasibility of undertaking a multicentre, randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess the efficacy of antenatal corticosteroids administration within 7 days before elective caesarean section (CS) in women with pre-gestational diabetes (PGDM) or gestational diabetes (GDM).

DESIGN

Triple blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled, pilot RCT.

SETTING

Single-centre tertiary maternity hospital in Melbourne, Australia.

POPULATION

Pregnant women with PGDM (type 1 or type 2 diabetes) or GDM booked for a planned CS scheduled between 35+0 and 38+6  weeks of gestation.

METHODS

Eligible participants were randomised to receive two injections of either betamethasone 11.4 mg or normal saline placebo, 24 hours apart within 7 days before CS scheduled between 35+0 and 38+6  weeks of gestation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The proportion of eligible women who consented and were randomised.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619001475134.

RESULTS

Of 537 women eligible, 182 were approached and 47 (26%) were recruited. Of these, 22 were allocated to the betamethasone group and 25 were allocated to the placebo group. There were no serious adverse events related to participation.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible to undertake a triple-blind, placebo-controlled RCT investigating the efficacy of antenatal corticosteroids in preventing respiratory morbidity in infants of women with PGDM or GDM who are undergoing an elective CS between 35+0 and 38+6  weeks.

Pure shift FESTA: An ultra-high resolution NMR tool for the analysis of complex fluorine-containing spin systems

NMR measurements of molecules containing sparse fluorine atoms are becoming increasingly common due to their prevalence in medicinal chemistry. However, the presence of both homonuclear and heteronuclear scalar couplings severely complicates their analysis by NMR. In complex systems, FESTA, a heteronuclear spectral editing method, allows simplified 1 H NMR spectra to be obtained containing only 1 H signals from the same spin system as a chosen 19 F. Despite spectral simplification, signal overlap due to the presence of scalar couplings is often a problem in FESTA spectra. Here, we report a new experiment that combines FESTA and pure shift methods to provide fully decoupled ultra-high resolution FESTA spectra showing a single signal for each 1 H chemical environment. The utility of the method is demonstrated for the analysis of two complex fluorine-containing mixtures of pharmaceutical and biochemical interest.

Treatments for alopecia areata: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease leading to nonscarring hair loss on the scalp or body. There are different treatments including immunosuppressants, hair growth stimulants, and contact immunotherapy.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of the treatments for alopecia areata (AA), alopecia totalis (AT), and alopecia universalis (AU) in children and adults.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Skin Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP were searched up to July 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated classical immunosuppressants, biologics, small molecule inhibitors, contact immunotherapy, hair growth stimulants, and other therapies in paediatric and adult populations with AA.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used the standard procedures expected by Cochrane including assessment of risks of bias using RoB2 and the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. The primary outcomes were short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (between 12 and 26 weeks of follow-up), and incidence of serious adverse events. The secondary outcomes were long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (greater than 26 weeks of follow-up) and health-related quality of life. We could not perform a network meta-analysis as very few trials compared the same treatments. We presented direct comparisons and made a narrative description of the findings.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 63 studies that tested 47 different treatments in 4817 randomised participants. All trials used a parallel-group design except one that used a cross-over design. The mean sample size was 78 participants. All trials recruited outpatients from dermatology clinics. Participants were between 2 and 74 years old. The trials included patients with AA (n = 25), AT (n = 1), AU (n = 1), mixed cases (n = 31), and unclear types of alopecia (n = 4). Thirty-three out of 63 studies (52.3%) reported the proportion of participants achieving short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (between 12 and 26 weeks). Forty-seven studies (74.6%) reported serious adverse events and only one study (1.5%) reported health-related quality of life. Five studies (7.9%) reported the proportion of participants with long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (greater than 26 weeks). Amongst the variety of interventions found, we prioritised some groups of interventions for their relevance to clinical practice: systemic therapies (classical immunosuppressants, biologics, and small molecule inhibitors), and local therapies (intralesional corticosteroids, topical small molecule inhibitors, contact immunotherapy, hair growth stimulants and cryotherapy). Considering only the prioritised interventions, 14 studies from 12 comparisons reported short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% and 22 studies from 10 comparisons reported serious adverse events (18 reported zero events and 4 reported at least one). One study (1 comparison) reported quality of life, and two studies (1 comparison) reported long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75%. For the main outcome of short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75%, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of oral prednisolone or cyclosporine versus placebo (RR 4.68, 95% CI 0.57 to 38.27; 79 participants; 2 studies; very low-certainty evidence), intralesional betamethasone or triamcinolone versus placebo (RR 13.84, 95% CI 0.87 to 219.76; 231 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), oral ruxolitinib versus oral tofacitinib (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.52; 80 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), diphencyprone or squaric acid dibutil ester versus placebo (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.71; 99 participants; 1 study; very-low-certainty evidence), diphencyprone or squaric acid dibutyl ester versus topical minoxidil (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.71; 99 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), diphencyprone plus topical minoxidil versus diphencyprone (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.13 to 3.44; 30 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence), topical minoxidil 1% and 2% versus placebo (RR 2.31, 95% CI 1.34 to 3.96; 202 participants; 2 studies; very low-certainty evidence) and cryotherapy versus fractional CO2 laser (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.86; 80 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence suggests oral betamethasone may increase short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% compared to prednisolone or azathioprine (RR 1.67, 95% CI 0.96 to 2.88; 80 participants; 2 studies; low-certainty evidence). There may be little to no difference between subcutaneous dupilumab and placebo in short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% (RR 3.59, 95% CI 0.19 to 66.22; 60 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence) as well as between topical ruxolitinib and placebo (RR 5.00, 95% CI 0.25 to 100.89; 78 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence). However, baricitinib results in an increase in short-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% when compared to placebo (RR 7.54, 95% CI 3.90 to 14.58; 1200 participants; 2 studies; high-certainty evidence). For the incidence of serious adverse events, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of topical ruxolitinib versus placebo (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.94; 78 participants; 1 study; very low-certainty evidence). Baricitinib and apremilast may result in little to no difference in the incidence of serious adverse events versus placebo (RR 1.47, 95% CI 0.60 to 3.60; 1224 participants; 3 studies; low-certainty evidence). The same result is observed for subcutaneous dupilumab compared to placebo (RR 1.54, 95% CI 0.07 to 36.11; 60 participants; 1 study; low-certainty evidence). For health-related quality of life, the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of oral cyclosporine compared to placebo (MD 0.01, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.07; very low-certainty evidence). Baricitinib results in an increase in long-term hair regrowth ≥ 75% compared to placebo (RR 8.49, 95% CI 4.70 to 15.34; 1200 participants; 2 studies; high-certainty evidence). Regarding the risk of bias, the most relevant issues were the lack of details about randomisation and allocation concealment, the limited efforts to keep patients and assessors unaware of the assigned intervention, and losses to follow-up.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found that treatment with baricitinib results in an increase in short- and long-term hair regrowth compared to placebo. Although we found inconclusive results for the risk of serious adverse effects with baricitinib, the reported small incidence of serious adverse events in the baricitinib arm should be balanced with the expected benefits. We also found that the impact of other treatments on hair regrowth is very uncertain. Evidence for health-related quality of life is still scant.

Effects of Single-Course Betamethasone on the Outcomes of Late Preterm Neonates

Background Prenatal glucocorticoids are commonly used in pregnancies before 34 weeks of gestation in women at risk of preterm delivery; however, the effects of these drugs on late preterm infants (those born after the 34th week of pregnancy) are controversial. As a result, we aimed to investigate the effect of a single course of betamethasone (two doses of betamethasone every 24 hours) on the neonatal outcome of late preterm births. Methods We retrospectively assessed all spontaneous late preterm births (34-36+6 weeks of gestation) at a tertiary hospital in Iran over a period of two and a half years. Exclusion criteria included multiple pregnancies, induced labor, and fetal malformations identified in sonograms. Neonatal outcome measures encompassed first and five-minute Apgar scores, respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal death, birth asphyxia, and the need for positive pressure ventilation, continuous positive airway pressure, tracheal intubation, and surfactant. Baseline characteristics, such as maternal age, parity, fetal gender, and high-risk pregnancy, were considered confounding variables. High-risk pregnancies were defined as any cases involving prolonged rupture of membranes or maternal comorbidities such as severe anemia, preeclampsia, diabetes, or COVID-19. Results During the study period, there were 830 spontaneous preterm births at our center. Of these, only 195 (23.5%) received complete doses of betamethasone. Low birth weight was more common in mothers who did not receive betamethasone compared to those who did (63.6% vs. 41.2%). The mean gestational age was lower in mothers who received betamethasone than in those who did not. Respiratory distress syndrome was more common in mothers who received betamethasone (P<0.001, RR 2.11, 95% CI (0.98-4.18)). However, after adjusting for confounding factors, such as gestational age and birth weight, betamethasone did not increase the risk of respiratory distress syndrome. Other adverse neonatal outcomes did not differ significantly. Conclusions There were no differences in neonatal outcomes between those who received betamethasone and those who did not.

Comparative study of ultrasonic-guided betamethasone local injection and extracorporeal shock wave therapy in post-stroke hemiplegic shoulder pain: a randomized clinical trial

Objective

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided local injection (UGLI) of betamethasone around the shoulder and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain.

Method

Forty-two patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain were randomly divided into the UGLI group (N = 21) and the ESWT group (N = 21). In the UGLI group, betamethasone was injected at the pain point around the shoulder under ultrasonic localization. In the ESWT group, an extracorporeal shock wave was performed at the pain points around the shoulder for 20 min of time, once a week, for 4 consecutive weeks. Both groups received rehabilitation training. The visual analog scale (VAS) evaluation was performed at baseline, 1 h, 1 week, and 1 month after treatment. Furthermore, Neer shoulder joint function scores, upper limb Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), modified Barthel index (MBI), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), the MOS-item short-form health survey (SF-36) scores, and serum expression level of cytokine were evaluated at baseline and 1 month after treatment.

Results

After 1-h treatment, the UGLI group showed a greater effect on the degree of pain than the ESWT group (P = 0.017). After 4 consecutive weeks of intervention, the UGLI group showed a significant improvement in the serum level of cytokine expression compared with the ESWT group (P < 0.05). The range of motion (ROM) of the hemiplegic shoulder (P < 0.05) has no difference between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The ultrasonic-guided betamethasone local injection and extracorporeal shock wave both can improve hemiplegic shoulder pain. However, the UGLI can induce a more cytokine expression level.

Betamethasone cream to treat diapers rash causing Cushing syndrome

OBJECTIVES

Betamethasone causing iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome (CS) in infants are rarely reported.

CASE PRESENTATION

In this case report, there were severe signs of CS, such as considerable weight acceleration and concurrent height deceleration, hirsutism and ecchymosis of the face, and buffalo pad, which are often found in adults. Clobetasol propionate, diflucortolone valerate, and dexamethasone nasal sprays were used in the majority of previously reported cases of corticosteroid abuse, whereas this is the first case of CS in an infant as a result of the use of betamethasone cream, also known as betnesol, which is frequently used by mothers in developing countries as a treatment for rashes. In this instance, a severe medication interaction caused by systemic betamethasone cream buildup led to the creation of CS. For the professionals, these patients are a challenge because of drug use without prescription.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical corticosteroid usage puts infants at risk for CS. Because of excessive betamethasone treatment in this child with diaper dermatitis, he acquired CS. It is said to draw attention to the risks of self-medication in developing nations.

Use of antenatal corticosteroids among infants with gestational age at 24 to 31 weeks in 57 neonatal intensive care units of China: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) can significantly improve the outcomes of preterm infants. This study aimed to describe the ACS use rates among preterm infants admitted to Chinese neonatal intensive care units (NICU) and to explore perinatal factors associated with ACS use, using the largest contemporary cohort of very preterm infants in China.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study enrolled all infants born at 24 +0 to 31 +6 weeks and admitted to 57 NICUs of the Chinese Neonatal Network from January 1st, 2019 to December 30th, 2019. The ACS administration was defined as at least one dose of dexamethasone and betamethasone given before delivery. Multiple logistic regressions were applied to determine the association between perinatal factors and ACS usage.

RESULTS

A total of 7828 infants were enrolled, among which 6103 (78.0%) infants received ACS. ACS use rates increased with increasing gestational age (GA), from 177/259 (68.3%) at 24 to 25 weeks' gestation to 3120/3960 (78.8%) at 30 to 31 weeks' gestation. Among infants exposed to ACS, 2999 of 6103 (49.1%) infants received a single complete course, and 33.4% (2039/6103) infants received a partial course. ACS use rates varied from 30.2% to 100% among different hospitals. Multivariate regression showed that increasing GA, born in hospital (inborn), increasing maternal age, maternal hypertension and premature rupture of membranes were associated with higher likelihood to receive ACS.

CONCLUSIONS

The use rate of ACS remained low for infants at 24 to 31 weeks' gestation admitted to Chinese NICUs, with fewer infants receiving a complete course. The use rates varied significantly among different hospitals. Efforts are urgently needed to propose improvement measures and thus improve the usage of ACS.

Review of Calcipotriene and Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream in the Treatment of Psoriasis

OBJECTIVE

To review the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of recently approved calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate (C-BD) cream.

DATA SOURCES

A literature review was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed) and ClinicalTrials.gov from 2002 to mid-May 2022.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Articles in English discussing the use of C-BD cream in the treatment of psoriasis were included.

DATA SYNTHESIS

In 2 phase I trials, there was no phototoxic or photoallergic skin reaction at irradiated C-BD cream sites at baseline, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours postirradiation. In 2 phase III trials, after 8 weeks of treatment, more subjects treated with C-BD cream achieved Physician's Global Assessment treatment success (37.4%), compared to C-BD topical suspension (TS) (22.8%, P < 0.0001) and vehicle (3.7%, P < 0.0001). More subjects had greater mean percentage decline in Modified Psoriasis Area Severity Index (Trial 1: 52.9% and Trial 2: 64.6%), when compared to C-BD TS (Trial 1: 51.3%, P < 0.0001 and Trial 2: 56.4%, P < 0.0001) and vehicle (Trial 1: 22.9%, P < 0.0001 and Trial 2: 20.0%, P < 0.0001).

RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE

Psoriasis has a multifactorial pathogenesis and topical treatments are considered first line. Poor adherence is a major hurdle in management; the combination of 2 separate first-line drugs may address this by decreasing the complexity of treatment regimens. A cream formulation can be preferred, and C-BD is now Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved as one.

CONCLUSIONS

Newly FDA-approved C-BD cream with novel polyaphron dispersion (PAD) technology provides a safe efficacious combination therapy for mild-to-moderate psoriasis which may be preferred by some patients.

Booster course of antenatal corticosteroids after preterm prelabor rupture of membranes: a double-blind randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes is a leading cause of preterm birth and is responsible for 18% to 20% of perinatal deaths in the United States. An initial course of antenatal corticosteroids has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. For patients who remain undelivered for 7 days or more after the initial course of antenatal corticosteroids, it is uncertain whether a booster course of antenatal corticosteroids reduces neonatal morbidity or increases the infection risk. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has concluded that the current evidence is insufficient to make a recommendation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate if a single booster course of antenatal corticosteroids improves neonatal outcomes after preterm prelabor rupture of membranes.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a multicenter, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial. The inclusion criteria were preterm prelabor rupture of membranes, gestational age of 24.0 to 32.9 weeks, singleton, initial antenatal corticosteroid course administered at least 7 days before randomization, and planned expectant management. Consenting patients were randomized in gestational age blocks to either receive booster antenatal corticosteroids (12 mg betamethasone every 24 hours for 2 days) or a saline placebo. The primary outcome was composite neonatal morbidity or death. A sample size of 194 patients was calculated to yield 80% power at P<.05 to detect a reduction in primary outcome from 60% in placebo group to 40% in antenatal corticosteroids group.

RESULTS

From April 2016 through August 2022, 194 patients consented and were randomized (47% of 411 eligible patients). Intent-to-treat analysis was performed on 192 patients (2 placebo patients left hospital, outcomes unknown). The groups had similar baseline characteristics. The primary outcome occurred in 64% of patients who received booster antenatal corticosteroids vs in 66% of patients who received the placebo (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.43-1.57; gestational age-stratified Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test). Individual components of the primary outcome and secondary neonatal and maternal outcomes were not significantly different between the antenatal corticosteroids and placebo groups. Specifically, chorioamnionitis (22% vs 20%), postpartum endometritis (1% vs 2%), wound infections (2% vs 0%), and proven neonatal sepsis (5% vs 3%) were not different between the groups.

CONCLUSION

A booster course of antenatal corticosteroids at least 7 days after the first antenatal corticosteroids course in patients with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes did not improve neonatal morbidity or any other outcome in this adequately-powered, double-blind randomized clinical trial. Booster antenatal corticosteroids did not increase maternal or neonatal infection.

Preventive effects of antenatal CDP-choline in a rat model of neonatal hyperoxia-induced lung injury

Antenatal steroid administration to pregnant women at risk of prematurity provides pulmonary maturation in infants, while it has limited effects on incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), the clinical expression of hyperoxia-induced lung injury (HILI). Cytidine-5'-diphosphate choline (CDP-choline) was shown to alleviate HILI when administered to newborn rats. Therefore, we investigated effects of maternal administration of CDP-choline, alone or in combination with betamethasone, on lung maturation in neonatal rats subjected to HILI immediately after birth. Pregnant rats were randomly assigned to one of the four treatments: saline (1 mL/kg), CDP-choline (300 mg/kg), betamethasone (0.4 mg/kg), or CDP-choline plus betamethasone (combination therapy). From postnatal day 1 to 11, pups born to mothers in the same treatment group were pooled and randomly assigned to either normoxia or hyperoxia group. Biochemical an d histopathological effects of CDP-choline on neonatal lung tissue were evaluated. Antenatal CDP-choline treatment increased levels of phosphatidylcholine and total lung phospholipids, decreased apoptosis, and improved alveolarization. The outcomes were further improved with combination therapy compared to the administration of CDP-choline or betamethasone alone. These results demonstrate that antenatal CDP-choline treatment provides benefit in experimental HILI either alone or more intensively when administered along with a steroid, suggesting a possible utility for CDP-choline against BPD.

Changes in Maternal Heart Rate and Autonomic Regulation following the Antenatal Administration of Corticosteroids: A Secondary Analysis

While the effect of antenatally administered corticosteroids on fetal heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) is well established, little information is available on how these drugs affect maternal physiology. In this secondary analysis of a prospective, observational cohort study, we quantify how corticosteroids affect maternal HR and HRV, which serve as a proxy measure for autonomic regulation. Abdominal ECG measurements were recorded before and in the five days following the administration of betamethasone—a corticosteroid commonly used for fetal maturation—in 46 women with singleton pregnancies. Maternal HR and HRV were determined from these recordings and compared between these days. HRV was assessed with time- and frequency-domain features, as well as non-linear and complexity features. In the 24 h after betamethasone administration, maternal HR was significantly increased (p < 0.01) by approximately 10 beats per minute, while HRV features linked to parasympathetic activity and HR complexity were significantly decreased (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Within four days after the initial administration of betamethasone, HR decreases and HRV features increase again, indicating a diminishing effect of betamethasone a few days after administration. We conclude that betamethasone administration results in changes in maternal HR and HRV, despite the heterogeneity of the studied population. Therefore, its recent administration should be considered when evaluating these cardiovascular metrics.

Effects of dual therapy with betamethasone and tetracycline in a NC/Nga mouse model of atopic dermatitis

Purpose: Our previous study has demonstrated that tetracycline exerts excellent bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) while simultaneously inhibiting the development of T helper (Th) type 2 (Th2) cells. The present study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of dual therapy with betamethasone and tetracycline for AD. Methods: Betametasone (0.1%) and tetracycline (3%) were topically administered to NC/Nga mice with AD-like skin lesions. Skin severity scores, histological changes to the lesioned skin, and serum IgE levels were assessed as indicators of therapeutic effectiveness. Results: Topical treatment with both drugs reduced the skin severity score more significantly than was the case with betamethasone alone or tetracycline alone. This was associated with a reduction in the degree of epidermal thickening, the density of cellular infiltration into the dermis, the mast cell count in the dermis and the serum IgE concentration. Furthermore, the degree of Th1/Th2 cell development in auricular lymph nodes and the S. aureus count on the lesioned skin were synergistically suppressed by simultaneous application of both drugs. Conclusion: The present results show that simultaneous topical application of betamethasone and tetracycline synergistically ameliorates AD-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice. This suggests that dual therapy with betamethasone and tetracycline for AD lesions colonized by S. aureus might be one of the best options for inhibiting the development of both Th1 and Th2 cells and acting on superficially located S. aureus .

Comparison of the Effect of Bromfenac versus Betamethasone Ophthalmic Solutions in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema

PURPOSE

To examine the effect of 0.1% bromfenac (BF) ophthalmic solution and 0.1% betamethasone (BM) ophthalmic solution on diabetic macular edema (DME).

METHODS

This was a prospective trial. Nineteen patients (mean age of 66.6 ± 10.1 years) with DME and mean retinal thickness within a diameter of 1 mm from the fovea (central subfield thickness: CST) of 250-500 µm were randomized and instilled with BF or BM. CST, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after administration.

RESULTS

CST at baseline (p = .128) and that at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of administration was not significantly different between the BF (10 patients) and BM groups (9 patients). In patients with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <8.0%, CST, compared with baseline, was significantly decreased in the BF group (seven patients) at 8 (p = .025) and 12 weeks (p = .043) of administration. When compared with the baseline, no significant changes in BCVA were observed at any point in time in either group. Baseline IOP was comparable between the groups. In the BM group, the values of change in IOP from baseline significantly increased at 8 (p = .025) and 12 weeks (p = .044) of administration, with no significant changes in IOP over the 12 weeks of administration in the BF group.

CONCLUSIONS

BF did not affect IOP even after 12 weeks of administration, suggesting its effect in reducing CST in DME with good glycemic control.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN-CTR); UMIN000026201, February 18, 2017; Japan Registry of Clinical Trials; jRCTs031180308, March 15, 2019.

Combination Therapy with Betamethasone and Josamycin Demonstrates Superior Therapeutic Efficacy in an NC/Nga Mouse Model of Atopic Dermatitis

We have previously demonstrated the excellent bactericidal activity of josamycin against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), with therapeutic efficacy equal to that of betamethasone. The present study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of combination therapy with betamethasone and josamycin for AD. Betametasone (0.1%) and josamycin (0.1%) were topically administered to NC/Nga mice with severe AD-like skin lesions. Skin severity scores, histological changes in skin lesions, and serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were assessed as indicators of therapeutic efficacy. Topical treatment with both drugs suppressed the skin severity score to a greater degree than betamethasone alone. This was associated with a reduction of epidermal thickening, a reduced density of dermal cellular infiltration, a decreased mast cell count in the dermis, and a reduced serum IgE level. In addition, both drugs in combination markedly reduced the expression of interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-4 in auricular lymph node cells, as well as the S. aureus count on the lesioned skin. These results show that simultaneous topical application of both drugs can ameliorate severe AD-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice. It is suggested that combination therapy with betamethasone and josamycin would be beneficial for control of severe AD lesions colonized by S. aureus by inhibiting the development of both T helper (Th) type 1 (Th1) and Th2 cells and also through elimination of superficially located S. aureus.

Improving the external validity of Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids trial findings

BACKGROUND

The external validity of randomised trials can be compromised when trial participants differ from real-world populations. In the Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids (ALPS) trial of antenatal corticosteroids at late preterm ages, participants had systematically younger gestational ages than those outside the trial setting. As risk of respiratory morbidity (the primary trial outcome) is higher at younger gestations, absolute benefits of corticosteroids calculated in the trial population may overestimate real-world treatment benefits.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the real-world absolute risk reduction and number-needed-to-treat (NNT) for antenatal corticosteroids at late preterm ages, accounting for gestational age differences between the ALPS and real-world populations.

METHODS

Individual participant data from the ALPS trial (which recruited 2831 women with imminent preterm birth at 34+0 to 36+5 weeks') was appended to population-based data for 15,741 women admitted for delivery between 34+0 and 36+5 weeks' from British Columbia, Canada, 2000-2013. We used logistic regression to calculate inverse odds of sampling weights for each trial participant and re-estimated treatment effects of corticosteroids on neonatal respiratory morbidity in ALPS participants, weighted to reflect the gestational age distribution of the population-based (real-world) sample.

RESULTS

The real-world absolute risk reduction was estimated to be -2.2 (95% CI -4.6, 0.0) cases of respiratory morbidity per 100, compared with -2.8 (95% CI -5.3, -0.3) in original trial data. Corresponding NNTs were 46 in the real-world setting vs 35 in the trial. Our focus on absolute measures also highlighted that the benefits of antenatal corticosteroids may be meaningfully greater at 34 weeks vs. 36 weeks (e.g., risk reductions of -3.7 vs. -1.2 per 100 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The absolute risk reductions and NNTs associated with antenatal corticosteroid administration at late preterm ages estimated in our study may be more appropriate for patient counselling as they better reflect the anticipated benefits of treatment when used in a real-world situation.

The Efficacy of Combination Therapy Involving Excision Followed by Intralesional 5-Fluorouracil and Betamethasone, and Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Keloids: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Combined therapy for keloids is currently recommended. Surgery is one of the main options, but the measures to prevent recurrence after excision are still being explored.

Objective

The randomized controlled study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of excision followed by intralesional low concentrations of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)(12.5 mg/mL) and betamethasone.

Methods

Sixty patients were randomly assigned to three groups. Patients in group A had excision followed by 5-FU and betamethasone intralesional injections, group B had 5-FU and betamethasone intralesional injections, and group C had excision followed by radiotherapy. Efficacy parameters were assessed from 8 to 12 months, including improvement on the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and the Patient and Observer Scar Scale (POSAS), as well as side effects and recurrence. Trial registration number: ChiCTR2100046025.

Results

After 4 months' treatment, the improvement of the VSS and POSAS scores in group A was not different from that in group C (P > 0.05) but was superior to that in group B (P < 0.05); the pain and pruritus of the three groups were relieved more than 50%. After 8 to 12 months' follow-up, there was no statistical difference in the incidence of side effects and recurrence among the groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Excision followed by intralesional low concentrations of 5-FU (12.5mg/mL) with betamethasone is a safe and sustainable treatment for keloid, with no significant difference from excision followed by radiotherapy.

Reproductive outcomes of neonatal exposure to betamethasone in male and female rats

Betamethasone (BM) is the drug of choice for antenatal corticosteroid therapy for women at risk of preterm delivery because it induces fetal lung maturation and enhances survival after birth. However, our group reported evidence of fetal programming and impaired reproductive development and function in rats exposed during the critical window of genital system development. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of BM on the sexual development of rats in the period that corresponds to antenatal corticosteroid therapy in humans. Male and female rats were exposed subcutaneously to BM at 0.1 μg/g of pups' body weight or to a NaCl 0.9% solution (control) on postnatal days 1-3. It was observed that neonatal exposure to BM decreased body weight and weight gain in male and female rats during treatment. The estrous cycle was deregulated and LH level was decreased in female rats. In male rats, the sperm concentration in the caput-corpus of the epididymis was decreased, whereas the sperm transit time and sperm concentration in the cauda of the epididymis were increased. Our results demonstrated that neonatal exposure to BM impaired body growth of male and female rats, deregulated the estrous cycle of female rats, and altered sperm quality of male rats. Therefore, BM exposure from postnatal days 1 to 3 corroborated results previously observed after prenatal exposure to this drug. Despite the recognized importance of human antenatal corticosteroid therapy, the findings of this study should encourage further studies in order to minimize possible adverse postnatal effects.

Comparison of efficacy, safety and satisfaction of latanoprost versus minoxidil, betamethasone and in combination in patients with alopecia areata: A blinded multiple group randomized controlled trial

Alopecia areata (AA), a polygenic and chronic autoimmune disease and there is no definitive cure. We aimed to evaluate latanoprost effects in patients with AA. In this controlled randomized double-blind clinical trial, we enrolled patients with AA randomly assigned to six groups of 18; Group 1 received latanoprost eye drops; group 2 minoxidil 5% solution; group 3 latanoprost eye drops and minoxidil 5% solution; group 4 betamethasone and minoxidil 5% solution; group 5 betamethasone solution and latanoprost eye drops; group 6 (the control group) betamethasone solution. The alopecia severity in patients before and after treatment was assessed by severity of alopecia tool (SALT). One hundred and eight patients, 50% male (mean age: 32.6 ± 10.4) were studied. The overall SALT score decreased in all. After 2 weeks, patients receiving betamethason-minoxidil and betamethason-latanoprost showed more decline in their SALT than other groups. In final, there was statistically significant difference among betamethasone-latanoprost group with minoxidil, betamethasone-minoxidil and betamethasone groups. Regrowth was higher in latanoprost and betamethasone-latanoprost groups than minoxidil. Topical latanoprost added to therapeutic efficacy of topical betamethason and minoxidil in treating patchy AA, suggesting it being beneficial and safe adjuvant therapy and add to efficacy of topical treatments without any adverse effects.

FOXO1 Is a Key Mediator of Glucocorticoid-Induced Expression of Tristetraprolin in MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells

The mRNA destabilizing factor tristetraprolin (TTP) functions as a tumor suppressor by down-regulating cancer-associated genes. TTP expression is significantly reduced in various cancers, which contributes to cancer processes. Enforced expression of TTP impairs tumorigenesis and abolishes maintenance of the malignant state, emphasizing the need to identify a TTP inducer in cancer cells. To search for novel candidate agents for inducing TTP in cancer cells, we screened a library containing 1019 natural compounds using MCF-7 breast cancer cells transfected with a reporter vector containing the TTP promoter upstream of the luciferase gene. We identified one molecule, of which the enantiomers are betamethasone 21-phosphate (BTM-21-P) and dexamethasone 21-phosphate (BTM-21-P), as a potent inducer of TTP in cancer cells. We confirmed that BTM-21-P, DXM-21-P, and dexamethasone (DXM) induced the expression of TTP in MDA-MB-231 cells in a glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-dependent manner. To identify potential pathways linking BTM-21-P and DXM-21-P to TTP induction, we performed an RNA sequencing-based transcriptome analysis of MDA-MB-231 cells at 3 h after treatment with these compounds. A heat map analysis of FPKM expression showed a similar expression pattern between cells treated with the two compounds. The KEGG pathway analysis results revealed that the upregulated DEGs were strongly associated with several pathways, including the Hippo signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, FOXO signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, and p53 signaling pathway. Inhibition of the FOXO pathway using a FOXO1 inhibitor blocked the effects of BTM-21-P and DXM-21-P on the induction of TTP in MDA-MB-231 cells. We found that DXM enhanced the binding of FOXO1 to the TTP promoter in a GR-dependent manner. In conclusion, we identified a natural compound of which the enantiomers are DXM-21-P and BTM-21-P as a potent inducer of TTP in breast cancer cells. We also present new insights into the role of FOXO1 in the DXM-21-P- and BTM-21-P-induced expression of TTP in cancer cells.

The complex challenge of antenatal steroid therapy nonresponsiveness

Antenatal steroid therapy is standard care for women at imminent risk of preterm delivery. When deliveries occur within 7 days of treatment, antenatal steroid therapy reduces the risk of neonatal death and improves preterm outcomes by exerting diverse developmental effects on the fetal organs, in particular the preterm lung and cardiovascular system. There is, however, sizable variability in antenatal steroid treatment efficacy, and an important percentage of fetuses exposed to antenatal steroid therapy do not respond sufficiently to derive benefit. Respiratory distress syndrome, for example, is a central metric of clinical trials to assess antenatal steroid outcomes. In the present analysis, we addressed the concept of antenatal steroid nonresponsiveness, and defined a failed or suboptimal response to antenatal steroids as death or a diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome following treatment. For deliveries at 24 to 35 weeks' gestation, the number needed to treat to prevent 1 case of respiratory distress syndrome was 19 (95% confidence interval, 14-28). Reflecting gestation-dependent risk, for deliveries at >34 weeks' gestation the number needed to treat was 55 (95% confidence interval, 30-304), whereas for elective surgical deliveries at term this number was 106 (95% confidence interval, 61-421). We reviewed data from clinical and animal studies investigating antenatal steroid therapy to highlight the significant incidence of antenatal steroid therapy nonresponsiveness (ie, residual mortality or respiratory distress syndrome after treatment), and the potential mechanisms underpinning this outcome variability. The origins of this variability may be related to both the manner in which the therapy is applied (ie, the treatment regimen itself) and factors specific to the individual (ie, genetic variation, stress, infection). The primary aims of this review were: (1) to emphasize to the obstetrical and neonatal communities the extent of antenatal steroid response variability and its potential impact; (2) to propose approaches by which antenatal steroid therapy may be better applied to improve overall benefit; and (3) to stimulate further research toward the empirical optimization of this important antenatal therapy.

Medium-Term Effect of Treatment with Intra-Articular Injection of Sodium Hyaluronate, Betamethasone and Platelet-Rich Plasma in Patients with Temporomandibular Arthralgia: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Temporomandibular joint disorders are associated with pain and reduced jaw mobility. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term effect on pain of intra-articular TMJ injections of betamethasone, sodium hyaluronate and platelet-rich plasma. The sample was made up of 114 patients, who were randomly distributed into three groups at least three years ago and who achieved a total remission of pain after treatment. We found that the median number of months without pain was, according to each group, as follows: platelet-rich plasma: 33; sodium hyaluronate: 28; betamethasone: 19. Both platelet-rich plasma and sodium hyaluronate lead to significant pain-free time after treatment; when we compare bethametasone with the two other substances, it proved to be very ineffective.

No effect of remdesivir or betamethasone on upper respiratory tract SARS-CoV-2 RNA kinetics in hospitalised COVID-19 patients: a retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

The viral kinetics of SARS-CoV-2 has been considered clinically important. While remdesivir and corticosteroids are recommended for COVID-19 patients requiring oxygen support, there is a limited number of published reports on viral kinetics in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 treated with remdesivir or corticosteroids.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study by collecting longitudinal samples from the nasopharynx/throat of 123 hospitalised patients (median age 55 years, 74% male) with COVID-19, to evaluate the effects of remdesivir and corticosteroid treatment on viral RNA levels. The subjects were divided into four groups: those receiving remdesivir (n = 25), betamethasone (n = 41), both (n = 15), or neither (n = 42). Time to viral RNA clearance was analysed using Kaplan-Meier plots, categorical data were analysed using Fisher's exact test, and Kruskal-Wallis for continuous data. Viral RNA decline rate was analysed using a mixed effect model.

RESULTS

We found no significant difference in SARS-CoV-2 RNA decline rate or time to SARS-CoV-2 RNA clearance between the groups. Moreover, clinical status at baseline was not correlated with time to viral clearance.

CONCLUSIONS

Since SARS-CoV-2 RNA kinetics was not affected by treatment, repeated sampling from the upper respiratory tract cannot be used to evaluate treatment response.

Euglycemia after antenatal late preterm steroids: a multicenter, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Late preterm steroid administration can induce transient maternal and thus fetal hyperglycemia, which can increase production of fetal insulin and C-peptide. Infants delivered in this setting are subsequently at increased risk for hypoglycemia. Although maternal glycemic control before delivery is a key component of care for parturients with diabetes, this intervention has not been studied in the setting of late preterm steroid administration.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effect of maternal screening for and treatment of hyperglycemia after late preterm steroid administration on fetal C-peptide levels and other metabolic markers.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a multicenter, randomized trial (NCT03076775) of nondiabetic parturients with a singleton gestation receiving betamethasone at 34 0/7 weeks to 36 5/7 weeks for anticipated preterm birth. Participants randomized to maternal glycemic control received fasting and 1-hour postprandial or serial intrapartum capillary blood glucose screening with insulin treatment as indicated. Those randomized to expectant management did not receive any glucose screening or treatment. The primary outcome was fetal C-peptide level measured from umbilical cord blood at delivery. Secondary outcomes included other fetal metabolic markers and neonatal hypoglycemia (glucose level <40 mg/dL). Baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared between the groups. We estimated that we would need a sample size of 144 to provide >90% power to show a 1 ng/mL decrease in C-peptide concentration (±1.5 ng/mL) at ⍺=0.05 using a 2-sample t test and 1 interim analysis. After the interim analysis, the trial was stopped for futility.

RESULTS

Of 491 screened parturients, 163 (33%) were deemed eligible and 86 (53%) were randomized to 1 of the treatment groups (June 2017 to February 2021). One person was lost to follow-up because of delivery at another hospital. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. The median interval from betamethasone administration to delivery was 24 hours (interquartile range, 13-96 hours) and did not differ between groups (P=.82). Most (82%) randomized to maternal glycemic control had hyperglycemia: 80% had at least 1 fasting glucose level >95 mg/dL, 75% had at least one 1-hour postprandial glucose level >140 mg/dL, and 80% had at least 1 intrapartum glucose level >110 mg/dL. In addition, 15% had at least 1 glucose level >180 mg/dL. None had maternal hypoglycemia after insulin treatment. Compared with expectant management, maternal glycemic control did not affect the median fetal C-peptide level (1.02; interquartile range, 0.52-1.85 vs 1.09; interquartile range, 0.61-1.65; P=.97) or other metabolic markers. Maternal glycemic control also did not affect neonatal hypoglycemia (49% vs 51%; P=.83) or other secondary neonatal or maternal outcomes. There was no evidence of effect modification by gestational age or body mass index at randomization, indication for betamethasone, duration from betamethasone to delivery, maternal race or ethnicity, or neonatal sex. In addition, the results were unchanged in a sensitivity analysis using a per-protocol approach.

CONCLUSION

Maternal hyperglycemia was observed in most nondiabetic parturients after receiving late preterm betamethasone. However, there was no improvement in fetal metabolic status, neonatal hypoglycemia, or other neonatal or maternal outcomes with maternal glycemic control. Therefore, maternal glucose surveillance and treatment does not seem to be beneficial in nondiabetic parturients receiving late preterm steroids.

Antenatal corticosteroids and neonatal outcomes in preterm birth in the United States

OBJECTIVES

To determine the impact of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) on neonatal outcomes in a large United States population of preterm births.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study utilizing the United States Natality Live Birth database from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2016-2017). Women with singleton preterm births were eligible for inclusion. Out-of-hospital births, fetal anomalies, and cases where ACS exposure was unknown were excluded. Neonates from reported live births were divided into two groups based on whether the mother received ACS before delivery or not. The incidence of several reported neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups at each gestational week. Subsequently, comparisons between three gestational age groups (23 0/7 to 27 6/7, 28 0/7 to 33 6/7, and 34 to 36 6/7 weeks) were performed. Statistical analysis included use of Chi-squared test and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of the 588,077 live births included, 121,151 (20.6%) had been exposed to ACS. ACS use was associated with a significantly decreased odds of neonatal mortality and 5-min Apgar score <7, but an increased rate of several neonatal outcomes such as surfactant replacement therapy, prolonged ventilation, antibiotics for suspected neonatal sepsis, and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions.

CONCLUSIONS

ACS administration prior to preterm birth is associated with a decrease in neonatal mortality and low Apgar scores, and increased odds of several adverse neonatal outcomes.

Multicentre study revealed significant gaps between evidence-based recommendations for using corticosteroids for croup and clinical practice

AIM

Adherence to croup management recommendations has been poorly investigated. This study aimed to describe the treatment patterns in two paediatric emergency departments and analyse the adherence to recommendations.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of children diagnosed with croup in two Italian pediatric emergency departments in 2017. Data on clinical presentation, corticosteroid administration and home therapy were collected. Length of stay, hospitalisation and re-access rates were compared among different corticosteroid treatment groups.

RESULTS

We enrolled 632 patients (61.1% males) with a mean age of 42.8±55.1 months. Corticosteroids were administered to 403 (63.8%) children in the emergency departments. Dexamethasone was administered to 1 (0.4%) patient. Inhaled and oral corticosteroids were given to 342 (54.1%) and 226 (35.8%) patients, respectively. Home therapy was prescribed for 603 (95.4%) patients, either with inhaled (86.2%) and/or oral (43.8%) corticosteroids. The re-access rate was 2.8%. The actual pharmaceutical costs were an estimated 10 times higher than they would have been if the recommendations had been followed.

CONCLUSION

A significant gap between the evidence and clinical practice for croup treatment was observed. Improving adherence to the recommendations could lead to clinical and economic benefits.

The RelB-BLNK Axis Determines Cellular Response to a Novel Redox-Active Agent Betamethasone during Radiation Therapy in Prostate Cancer

Aberrant levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are potential mechanisms that contribute to both cancer therapy efficacy and the side effects of cancer treatment. Upregulation of the non-canonical redox-sensitive NF-kB family member, RelB, confers radioresistance in prostate cancer (PCa). We screened FDA-approved compounds and identified betamethasone (BET) as a drug that increases hydrogen peroxide levels in vitro and protects non-PCa tissues/cells while also enhancing radiation killing of PCa tissues/cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Significantly, BET increases ROS levels and exerts different effects on RelB expression in normal cells and PCa cells. BET induces protein expression of RelB and RelB target genes, including the primary antioxidant enzyme, manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), in normal cells, while it suppresses protein expression of RelB and MnSOD in LNCaP cells and PC3 cells. RNA sequencing analysis identifies B-cell linker protein (BLNK) as a novel RelB complementary partner that BET differentially regulates in normal cells and PCa cells. RelB and BLNK are upregulated and correlate with the aggressiveness of PCa in human samples. The RelB-BLNK axis translocates to the nuclear compartment to activate MnSOD protein expression. BET promotes the RelB-BLNK axis in normal cells but suppresses the RelB-BLNK axis in PCa cells. Targeted disruptions of RelB-BLNK expressions mitigate the radioprotective effect of BET on normal cells and the radiosensitizing effect of BET on PCa cells. Our study identified a novel RelB complementary partner and reveals a complex redox-mediated mechanism showing that the RelB-BLNK axis, at least in part, triggers differential responses to the redox-active agent BET by stimulating adaptive responses in normal cells but pushing PCa cells into oxidative stress overload.

PLGA-based microspheres containing ropivacaine and betamethasone for sciatic nerve block in mice

The aim of the present study was to develop Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based microspheres containing ropivacaine and betamethasone (RPC/BTM PLGA MS) by emulsion-solvent evaporation method. RPC/BTM PLGA MS were characterized by physical properties, such as morphology and particle size, and in vitro drug release. In addition, in vivo pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of RPC/BTM PLGA MS were also investigated. The prepared RPC/BTM PLGA MS was suitable for local injection with a well-dispersed spherical shape, high stability, and high encapsulation efficiency. The mean diameter was 14.8 ± 1.2 µm and the polydispersity index (PDI) was 0.32 ± 0.04. In an in vitro study of drug release, it can be concluded that the RPC/BTM PLGA MS exhibited sustained and long-term release properties for 16 days. Furthermore, the result of an in vivo study indicated that the RPC/BTM PLGA MS had sustained release effect and the pharmacodynamics result showed that preparing RPC/BTM PLGA MS as microsphere preparation could not only extend the drug effect time but also prolong the duration of local anesthetics compared with the common RPC PLGA MS.

Neurocognitive sequelae of antenatal corticosteroids in a late preterm rabbit model

BACKGROUND

Late preterm birth is associated with short-term respiratory and adaptive problems. Although antenatal corticosteroids seem to reduce the respiratory burden, this may come at the cost of adverse neuropsychological outcomes later in life. This impact has not been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

Herein, we investigate what the short- and long-term neurodevelopmental effects of a single course of betamethasone in simulated late preterm birth.

STUDY DESIGN

Time-mated pregnant does received 0.1 mg/kg betamethasone (n=8) or 1 mL saline intramuscular (n=6) at the postconceptional ages of 28 and 29 days. The antenatal corticosteroid dose and scheme were based on previous studies and were comparable with routine clinical use. Cesarean delivery was done on postconceptional age 30 days (term=31 days), and new-born rabbits were foster-cared for 28 days and were thereafter cared for in group housing. Neonatal lung function testing and short-term neurobehavioral testing was done. Open field, spontaneous alternation, and novel object recognition tests were subsequently performed at 4 and 8 weeks of age. On postnatal day 1 and at 8 weeks, a subgroup was euthanized and transcardially perfuse fixated. Ex vivo high-resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging was used to calculate the Diffusion Tensor Imaging-derived fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity. Fixated brains underwent processing and were serial sectioned, and a set of 3 coronal sections underwent anti-NeuN, Ki67, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining.

RESULTS

Antenatal corticosteroid exposure was associated with improved neonatal lung function, yet resulted in a long-term growth deficit that coincided with a persistent neurobehavioral deficit. We demonstrated lower neonatal motor scores; a persistent anxious behavior in the open field test with more displacements, running, and self-grooming episodes; persistent lower alternation scores in the T-Maze test; and lower discriminatory indexes in the novel object recognition. On neuropathological assessment, antenatal corticosteroid exposure was observed to result in a persistent lower neuron density and fewer Ki67+ cells, particularly in the hippocampus and the corpus callosum. This coincided with lower diffusion tensor imaging-derived fractional anisotropy scores in the same key regions.

CONCLUSION

Clinical equivalent antenatal corticosteroid exposure in this late preterm rabbit model resulted in improved neonatal lung function. However, it compromised neonatal and long-term neurocognition.

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Special Statement: Quality metrics for optimal timing of antenatal corticosteroid administration

Preterm birth is a leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Antenatal corticosteroid administration before preterm birth reduces the risks of perinatal death, respiratory morbidity, necrotizing enterocolitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage and reduces the costs of perinatal care. Antenatal corticosteroids are optimally effective when administered within 7 days before preterm birth. However, only 20% to 40% of early preterm infants receive antenatal corticosteroids within 7 days before birth, in part because it is difficult to predict the precise timing of preterm birth. Until 2020, The Joint Commission had a Perinatal Care quality metric measuring the rate of antenatal corticosteroid administration at any time before early preterm birth. This metric incentivized providers to use antenatal corticosteroids liberally. The Joint Commission retired the metric in 2020 after the rate reached more than 97% in The Joint Commission-accredited hospitals. However, the metric did not evaluate whether the timing of antenatal corticosteroid administration was optimal, that is, within 7 days of birth. A 2016 multistakeholder Cooperative Workshop recommended the development of a new quality metric to assess the rate of optimally timed antenatal corticosteroids among early preterm births. In this statement, we outline proposed specifications for such a metric and discuss potential uses, advantages, limitations, and barriers. Furthermore, we propose a balancing metric that tracks the percentage of patients treated with antenatal corticosteroids who ultimately give birth at term. We suggest that the use of these new metrics may incentivize more conservative antenatal corticosteroid timing, which could, in turn, lead to meaningfully improved outcomes for preterm neonates.

Sub-population analysis of patients with plaque psoriasis treated with calcipotriol/betamethasone aerosol foam; effectiveness and patient satisfaction, according to baseline disease severity and prior psoriasis treatment experience, in a Greek population

Fixed combination calcipotriol/betamethasone (Cal/BD) aerosol foam has been shown to be effective in psoriasis treatment in clinical trials, but real-world evidence is currently sparse. The real-world CELSUS study in Greece found that Cal/BD aerosol foam treatment was effective and associated with satisfaction in psoriasis patients. Patients from the CELSUS study (N = 400) were stratified by baseline disease severity according to physician's global assessment (PGA) score (mild vs. moderate vs. severe) and by previous psoriasis treatment (naïve vs. treatment-experienced). Proportions of patients achieving treatment success (clear/almost clear [PGA 0/1]) after 4 weeks' treatment with Cal/BD aerosol foam were reported for each subgroup. Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and patient-reported itch, itch-related sleep loss, scaling, dry skin, and erythema numerical rating scores were reported by subgroup. At baseline, 216 (54%) patients were systemic-or-topical psoriasis treatment-naïve and 184 (46%) were treatment experienced. By disease severity, there were 135 versus 89 patients with mild, 69 versus 83 with moderate and 12 versus 12 with severe disease in the treatment-naïve versus treatment-experienced groups, respectively. In the treatment-naïve group, treatment success was achieved by 72.6%, 56.5%, and 66.7% of patients with mild, moderate, and severe disease, respectively, while the proportions in the treatment-experienced group were 60.7%, 42.2%, and 25%, respectively. Reduction from baseline in psoriasis symptoms was observed in all patient groups. The greatest reductions were observed in treatment-naïve patients with severe disease. Clinically relevant benefits were observed with Cal/BD aerosol foam in psoriasis patients, regardless of prior treatment-experience and disease severity at baseline.

Computational study on the affinity of potential drugs to SARS-CoV-2 main protease

Herein, we report a computational investigation of the binding affinity of dexamethasone, betamethasone, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to SARS-CoV-2 main protease using molecular and quantum mechanics as well as molecular docking methodologies. We aim to provide information on the anti-COVID-19 mechanism of the abovementioned potential drugs against SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Hence, the 6w63 structure of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease was selected as potential target site for the docking analysis. The study includes an initial conformational analysis of dexamethasone, betamethasone, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine. For the most stable conformers, a spectroscopic analysis has been carried out. In addition, global and local reactivity indexes have been calculated to predict the chemical reactivity of these molecules. The molecular docking results indicate that dexamethasone and betamethasone have a higher affinity than chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine for their theoretical 6w63 target. Additionally, dexamethasone and betamethasone show a hydrogen bond with the His41 residue of the 6w63 protein, while the interaction between chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine with this amino acid is weak. Thus, we confirm the importance of His41 amino acid as a target to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro activity.

Continuous but not pulsed low-dose fetal betamethasone exposures extend the durability of antenatal steroid therapy

Antenatal steroid (ANS) therapy is standard care for women at imminent risk of preterm labor. Despite extensive and long-standing use, 40-50% of babies exposed antenatally to steroids do not derive benefit; remaining undelivered 7d or more after ANS treatment is associated with a lack of treatment benefit, and increased risk of harms. We used a pregnant sheep model to evaluate the impact of continuous vs. pulsed ANS treatments on fetal lung maturation at an extended, eight-day treatment to delivery interval. Continuous low-dose ANS treatments for more than 72 hours in duration improved fetal lung maturation at eight days after treatment initiation. If fetal ANS exposure was interrupted, the beneficial ANS effect was lost. Truncated treatments, including that simulating the current clinical treatment regimen, did not improve lung function. Variable fetal lung maturation was correlated to the amount of saturated phosphatidylcholine present in the lung fluid. These data demonstrate that: i) the durability of ANS therapy may be enhanced by employing an extended, low-dose treatment regimen with reducing total dose; and ii) interrupting the continuity of fetal exposure by allowing it to fall below a minimal threshold was associated with comparably poor functional maturation of the preterm ovine lung.

Antenatal Betamethasone Every 12 Hours in Imminent Preterm Labour

Background: Benefits of antenatal corticosteroids have been established for preterm infants who have received the full course. In imminent preterm labours there is no time to administer the second dose 24 h later. Objective: To determine whether the administration of two doses of betamethasone in a 12 h interval is equivalent to the effects of a full maturation. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study including preterm infants ≤34 weeks gestational age at birth and ≤1500 g, admitted to an NICU IIIC level in a tertiary hospital from 2015 to 2020. The population was divided into two cohorts: complete maturation (CM) (two doses of betamethasone 24 h apart), or advanced maturation (AM) (two doses of betamethasone 12 h apart). The primary outcomes were mortality or survival with severe morbidities. The presence of respiratory distress syndrome and other morbidities of prematurity were determined. These variables were analysed in the neonates under 28 weeks gestational age cohort. Neurodevelopment at 2 years was evaluated with the validated Ages and Stages Questionnaires^®, Third Edition (ASQ^®-3). Multiple regression analyses were performed and adjusted for confounding factors. Results: A total of 275 preterm neonates were included. Serious outcomes did not show differences between cohorts, no increased incidence of morbidity was found in AM. A lower percentage of hypotension during the first week (p = 0.04), a tendency towards lower maximum FiO₂ (p = 0.14) and to a shorter mechanical ventilation time (p = 0.14) were observed for the AM cohort. Similar results were found in the subgroup of neonates under 28 weeks gestational age. There were no differences in cerebral palsy or sensory deficits at 24 months of corrected age, although the AM cohort showed a trend towards better scores on the ASQ3 scale. Conclusions: Administration of betamethasone every 12 h showed similar results to the traditional pattern with respect to mortality and severe morbidities. No deleterious neurodevelopmental effects were found at 24 months of corrected age. Earlier administration of betamethasone at 12 h after the first dose would be an alternative in imminent preterm delivery. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Pseudo-pheochromocytoma due to obstructive sleep apnea: a case report

SUMMARY

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition of intermittent nocturnal upper airway obstruction. OSA increases sympathetic drive which may result in clinical and biochemical features suggestive of pheochromocytoma. We present the case of a 65-year-old male with a 2.9-cm left adrenal incidentaloma on CT, hypertension, symptoms of headache, anxiety and diaphoresis, and persistently elevated 24-h urine norepinephrine (initially 818 nmol/day (89-470)) and normetanephrine (initially 11.2 µmol/day (0.6-2.7)). He was started on prazosin and underwent left adrenalectomy. Pathology revealed an adrenal corticoadenoma with no evidence of pheochromocytoma. Over the next 2 years, urine norepinephrine and normetanephrine remained significantly elevated with no MIBG avid disease. Years later, he was diagnosed with severe OSA and treated with continuous positive airway pressure. Urine testing done once OSA was well controlled revealed complete normalization of urine norepinephrine and normetanephrine with substantial symptom improvement. It was concluded that the patient never had a pheochromocytoma but rather an adrenal adenoma with biochemistry and symptoms suggestive of pheochromocytoma due to untreated severe OSA. Pseudo-pheochromocytoma is a rare presentation of OSA and should be considered on the differential of elevated urine catecholamines and metanephrines in the right clinical setting.

LEARNING POINTS

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition among adults. OSA may rarely present as pseudo-pheochromocytoma with symptoms of pallor, palpitations, perspiration, headache, or anxiety. OSA should be considered on the differential of elevated urine catecholamines and metanephrines, especially in patients with negative metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan results.

Partial vs. complete course of antenatal corticosteroid prophylaxis: An Italian single center retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of preterm infants given 12 vs. 24mg of betamethasone prophylaxis to understand whether a partial course of antenatal corticosteroids (CCS) could prevent or mitigate the major preterm birth complications.

METHODS

This is a retrospective single-center cohort study including neonates born between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation from 2001 to 2019 at the University Hospital of Udine. The study population was divided into two groups: one group received 12mg, and another received a 24mg dose of betamethasone before the delivery. A separate analysis was performed for single and multiple pregnancies. The two groups were evaluated for various neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

The study population included a total of 1,258 pregnancies and 1,543 neonates delivered between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation, of which 1,022 (803 single and 219 multiple pregnancies) were exposed to the complete CCS prophylaxis, whereas 236 (192 single and 44 multiple pregnancies) received the incomplete CCS prophylaxis. In single pregnancies, as for maternal characteristics, the most significant differences observed between the two groups are the following: a higher prevalence of spontaneous vaginal deliveries in the incomplete CCS prophylaxis (36.46 vs. 23.91%) and, by contrast, a higher prevalence of cesarean deliveries in the complete CCS prophylaxis group (75.72 vs. 63.02%). As for neonatal outcomes, the low Apgar score in the first and fifth min was significantly more prevalent in the incomplete CCS prophylaxis group compared with the complete CCS prophylaxis group. The group of incomplete CCS prophylaxis reported a higher occurrence of the following outcomes: IVH grade 3-4 (7.81 vs. 3.74%, p < 0.05), PVL (7.29 vs. 1.99% p < 0.05), ROP (23.96 vs. 18.06% p = 0.062), and RDS (84.38 vs. 78.83% p = 0.085). After adjusting for covariates, the complete CCS prophylaxis group in single pregnancies was significantly protective for IVH grade 3-4, PVL, and low Apgar's scores. Similar results were found in multiple pregnancies except for RDS.

DISCUSSION

This retrospective single-center cohort study found that, compared with preterm infants treated with 24mg betamethasone in utero, those given half course of betamethasone had a significantly higher prevalence of IVH grade 3-4, PVL, RDS, and lower Apgar scores at 1 and 5 min. In conclusion, the evidence from this single-center retrospective study supports the preference for the complete CCS prophylaxis in women at risk of preterm birth because of its beneficial effect on the main adverse outcomes.

Sexual Dimorphism in Transcriptional and Functional Glucocorticoid Effects on Mouse Skeletal Muscle

Muscle atrophy is common in patients with increased glucocorticoid exposure. Glucocorticoid effects are often sex-specific, and while different glucocorticoid responses between male and female subjects are reported, it is unclear why this is. In this study, we evaluated the effects of corticosterone and synthetic glucocorticoid treatment on muscle atrophy in male and female mice. We found that corticosterone treatment reduced grip strength in female mice only, whereas muscle mass was reduced in both sexes. Skeletal muscle transcriptional responses to corticosterone treatment were more pronounced and widespread in male mice. Synthetic glucocorticoid treatment reduced grip strength in both sexes, while female mice were more sensitive to muscle atrophy than male mice. To evaluate the role of androgens, chemically-castrated male mice were treated with synthetic glucocorticoids. We observed additively reduced muscle mass, but did not observe any interaction effects. Although sex differences in glucocorticoid responses in skeletal muscle are partly influenced by androgen signaling, further studies are warranted to fully delineate the underlying mechanisms.

Benefits of a Single Dose of Betamethasone in Imminent Preterm Labour

Background: A complete course of prenatal corticosteroids reduces the possibility of morbimortality and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Occasionally, it is not possible to initiate or complete the maturation regimen, and the preterm neonate is born in a non-tertiary hospital. This study aimed to assess the effects of a single dose of betamethasone within 3 h before delivery on serious outcomes (mortality and serious sequelae) and RDS in preterm neonates born in tertiary vs. non-tertiary hospitals. Materials and methods: Preterm neonates who were <35 weeks and ≤1500 g, treated during a period of five years in a level IIIC NICU, were included in this retrospective cohort study. Participants were divided into groups as follows: NM, non-matured; PM, partial maturation (one dose of betamethasone up to 3 h antepartum). They were further divided based on their place of birth (NICU-IIIC vs. non-tertiary hospitals). The morbimortality rates and the severity of neonatal RDS were evaluated. Results: A total of 76 preterm neonates were included. A decrease in serious outcomes was found in the PM group in comparison to the NM group (OR = 0.2; 95%CI (0.07–0.9)), as well as reduced need for mechanical ventilation (54% vs. 68%). The mean time between maternal admission and birth was similar in both cohorts. The mean time from the administration of betamethasone to delivery was 1 h in the PM cohort. With regard to births in NICU-IIIC, the PM group performed better in terms of serious outcomes (32% vs. 45%) and the duration of mechanical ventilation (117.75 vs. 132.18 h) compared to the NM group. In neonates born in non-tertiary hospitals with PM in comparison to the NM group, a trend towards a reduced serious outcome (28.5% vs. 62.2%) and a decreased need for mechanical ventilation (OR = 0.09; 95%CI (0.01–0.8)) and maximum FiO₂ (p = 0.01) was observed. Conclusions: A single dose of betamethasone up to 3 h antepartum may reduce the rate of serious outcomes and the severity of neonatal RDS, especially in non-tertiary hospitals.

Can betamethasone prevent Nicolau syndrome when coadministered with penicillin? A case report

We present a 33-year-old female patient with Nicolau syndrome (NS) who received one injection of benzathine penicillin and one injection of betamethasone to the right buttock, and one injection of benzathine penicillin to the left. NS was seen only in the left buttock, where it was intramuscularly injected with penicillin benzathine alone.

Comparison of neonatal outcomes with and without the administration of betamethasone in late preterm births

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of antenatal steroid administration on neonatal outcomes in late preterm births.

METHODS

Demographic and neonatal data from women who gave birth between May 2018 and March 2021 at 34⁺⁰ -36⁺⁶  weeks of gestation were screened from the information system of the hospital. The patients were assigned to two groups: those who were and those who were not given steroids. All parameters were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The 1-minute (9 versus 8) and 5-minute (10 versus 9) Apgar scores, need for a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay (23.7% versus 27.8%), length of stay (Day) in the NICU (1.97 ± 0.24 versus 2.45 ± 0.16), rate of transient tachypnea of the newborn (3.3% versus 7.8%), respiratory distress syndrome (2.5% versus 5.2%), need for mechanical ventilation (1.2% versus 3.8%), and neonatal sepsis (1% versus 2.6%) were lower in the group that received betamethasone compared with the group that did not; the differences between the two groups were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of the present study, we believe that antenatal steroid administration would be beneficial before late preterm births occurring between 34⁺⁰ and 36⁺⁶  weeks of pregnancy, considering the significant reduction in various respiratory complications, especially in respiratory distress syndrome and the need for an NICU stay.

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Consult Series #58: Use of antenatal corticosteroids for individuals at risk for late preterm delivery: Replaces SMFM Statement #4, Implementation of the use of antenatal corticosteroids in the late preterm birth period in women at risk for preterm delivery, August 2016

The administration of antenatal corticosteroids has been widely adopted as the standard of care in the management of pregnancies at risk for preterm delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, with the primary goal of reducing neonatal morbidity. However, the long-term risks associated with antenatal corticosteroid use remain uncertain. The purpose of this Consult is to review the current literature on the benefits and risks of antenatal corticosteroid use in the late preterm period and to provide recommendations based on the available evidence. The recommendations by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine are as follows: (1) we recommend offering a single course of antenatal corticosteroids (2 doses of 12 mg of intramuscular betamethasone 24 hours apart) to patients who meet the inclusion criteria of the Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids trial, ie, those with a singleton pregnancy between 34 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks of gestation who are at high risk of preterm birth within the next 7 days and before 37 weeks of gestation (GRADE 1A); (2) we suggest consideration for the use of antenatal corticosteroids in select populations not included in the original Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids trial, such as patients with multiple gestations reduced to a singleton gestation on or after 14 0/7 weeks of gestation, patients with fetal anomalies, or those who are expected to deliver in <12 hours (GRADE 2C); (3) we recommend against the use of antenatal corticosteroids for fetal lung maturity in pregnant patients with a low likelihood of delivery before 37 weeks of gestation (GRADE 1B); (4) we recommend against the use of late preterm corticosteroids in pregnant patients with pregestational diabetes mellitus, given the risk of worsening neonatal hypoglycemia (GRADE 1C); (5) we recommend that patients at risk for late preterm delivery be thoroughly counseled regarding the potential risks and benefits of antenatal corticosteroid administration and be advised that the long-term risks remain uncertain (GRADE 1C).

Enhanced elimination of betamethasone in dichorionic twin pregnancies

AIM

No study has evaluated the betamethasone pharmacokinetics in twin pregnancies according to chorionicity. This study aimed to describe and compare the betamethasone pharmacokinetic parameters in singleton and dichorionic (DC) and monochorionic twin pregnancies in the third trimester of pregnancy.

METHODS

Twenty-six pregnant women received 2 intramuscular doses of 6 mg of betamethasone sodium phosphate plus 6 mg betamethasone acetate due to preterm labour. Serial blood samples were collected for 24 hours after the first intramuscular dose of betamethasone esters. Betamethasone plasma concentrations were quantified using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analytical method, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained employing a noncompartmental model. Preliminary data on the betamethasone placental transfer are also presented.

RESULTS

The geometric mean (95% confidence interval) of AUC^0-∞ 645.1 (504.3-825.2) vs. 409.8 (311.2-539.6) ng.h/mL and CL/F 17.70 (13.84-22.65) vs. 27.87 (21.17-36.69) were significantly different, respectively, in singleton pregnancies when compared to DC twins.

CONCLUSION

Data from this study suggest that the presence of 2 foetoplacental units may increase the betamethasone metabolism by hepatic CYP3A4 and/or placental 11β-HSD2 enzymes. Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic clinical studies are needed to investigate whether these betamethasone pharmacokinetic changes have clinical repercussions for the newborns and require dose adjustment in DC twin pregnancies.