[Validation of a predictive index of neoplasia in unexplained weight loss].

Background: Involuntary weight loss (IWL) is associated with a bad prognosis. A causal diagnosis is difficult and the priority is to identify those patients at risk of a serious underlying disease, such as malignant neoplasia.

Objective: External validation of a prognostic index of neoplasia in patients with IWL.

[Fulminant meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Report of three cases].

The prevalence of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) resistant to penicillin is an increasing problem with variable prevalence across the world. In Mexico, some reports inform prevalence as high as 50% of the isolations.

[New prospects for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus].

The systemic lupus erythematosus is a significant therapeutic challenge: Multiorgan involvement and a variable disease course, characterized by clinical exacerbations and remissions, make difficult to predict the outcome. Few products have been specifically developed for this affection, and most accepted therapies have not been tested in randomized controlled trials of systemic lupus erythematosus. A variety of biological agents under investigation as potential treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus are designed to interfere with specific immunologic responses, hopefully avoiding generalized immunosuppression.

[Gastroesophageal reflux disease in pediatric patients with asthma].

Background: Nowadays, the gastroesophageal reflux is a predisposing factor for the development of asthmatic attacks.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux in pediatric patients with asthma of the Service of Allergy and Immunology at the Hospital Regional Lic. Adolfo López Mateos.