González Andrade, Fabricio

Preferred name

Main Affiliation

Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y Bienestar Humano

Quito

fabriciogonzalez@uti.edu.ec

ORCID

0000-0002-2091-9095

Scopus Author ID

8720668100

Now showing 1 - 10 of 14

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Maternal and neonatal outcomes among adolescent mothers in a high-risk NICU population in Ecuador
(2026)
Mónica Sánchez-Moreira
;
González Andrade, Fabricio
Background: Adolescent pregnancy remains a public health concern in Ecuador, particularly among socially vulnerable populations. Evidence from high-risk neonatal settings suggests that adverse neonatal outcomes associated with adolescent pregnancy may be strongly influenced by structural and healthcare-related factors rather than maternal age alone. However, data from neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in low- and middle-income countries remain limited. Objective: To compare maternal characteristics, obstetric practices, and neonatal outcomes between adolescent and adult mothers in a high-risk NICU population in Ecuador, stratified by term (37–41 weeks) and preterm (< 37 weeks) births, and to identify clinical predictors of neonatal distress. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using medical records from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Pablo Arturo Suárez General Hospital (Quito, Ecuador) between 2018 and 2021. The study included 288 neonates admitted with prenatal, perinatal, or postnatal risk factors for pulmonary hypertension. Four groups were analyzed: term and preterm neonates born to adolescent mothers and to adult mothers (n = 72 per group). Neonatal distress was operationally defined by adverse early clinical indicators, including low APGAR score, low birth weight for gestational age, and the presence and severity of pulmonary hypertension. Multivariate ordinal logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of neonatal distress. Results: Adolescent mothers had significantly lower educational attainment, lower socioeconomic status, and fewer prenatal care visits compared with adult mothers (p < 0.001). Cesarean section rates were markedly higher among preterm adolescent pregnancies (91.7% vs. 25.0% in adults). Neonatal outcomes differed across groups: among term births, only 26.4% of infants born to adolescent mothers had normal APGAR scores compared with 75.0% among adults (p < 0.001), and low birth weight was more frequent (65.3% vs. 25.0%). In multivariate analyses, low birth weight and moderate-to-severe pulmonary hypertension were the strongest independent predictors of neonatal distress, whereas maternal age showed no direct effect after adjustment. Conclusions: In this high-risk NICU population, adolescent mothers experienced greater socioeconomic disadvantage, inadequate prenatal care, and higher rates of obstetric intervention, which were associated with poorer neonatal indicators. Adverse outcomes were primarily driven by clinical and structural factors—particularly low birth weight and pulmonary hypertension—rather than maternal age itself. These findings highlight the need for targeted improvements in prenatal care and social support for adolescent mothers within high-risk clinical settings. © The Author(s) 2026.
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Rituximab-associated cryptococcal meningitis in systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report
(2026)
Sheyla Cadena
;
Ricardo Bedón-Galarza
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Miguel Cachumba
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González Andrade, Fabricio
;
Lucy Baldeón-Rojas
We report a 41-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus who developed cryptococcal meningitis five months after a second rituximab cycle. Initial symptoms mimicked an SLE flare, delaying diagnosis. Worsening neurologic deficits prompted lumbar puncture, revealing findings consistent with fungal meningitis and CSF culture positive for Cryptococcus neoformans. Treatment with amphotericin B and fluconazole resulted in clinical improvement, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and the need for early evaluation in immunosuppressed SLE patients. © 2026 The Authors
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A comprehensive study of Ecuadorian adult patients with a mild and moderate presentation of COViD-19
(2023)
González Andrade, Fabricio
;
Carrero Y.
Aim To characterize non-hospitalized patients with mild and moderate clinical presentation. Methods We performed an epidemiological, observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study carried out in Ecuador, with 1,447 participants between 18 and 66 years, non-hospitalized, with a molecular RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV2. We analyzed demographic characteristics according to sex, age group, clinical findings, behavior after diagnosis, family and social behavior, sequelae, clinical evolution, type of exposure, and personal history. Results The sample analyzed had a mean age of 37 years (95% CI 18–66), women 713 individuals (49.27%), men 733 individuals (50.66%). Age group distribution was 18–30 years, 524 individuals (36.29%), 31–45, 538 individuals (37.26), and more of 45 years, 382 individuals (26.46%). 1416 individuals were mestizos (97.99%). According to the province of residence from Pichincha were 1019 patients (70.52%), followed by Imbabura, 93 patients (6.44%), and the others 335 (23.15%) patients come from all over the country. In women, the most common findings were fever >38C (54.40%), sputum (27.43%) and hypoxia (16.32%); HTN (5.75%) and hypercholesterolemia (3.69%). Men were more prevalent in all other findings. Comorbidities were more prevalent in all those over 45 years of age. COVID-19 antibodies test was positive in 416 patients (28.85%). Neuropsychiatric symptoms such as sleep disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, depressed mood, and chronic fatigue were more prevalent in men than women. Still, generalized anxiety disorder and chronic fatigue were more common in individuals of 31 to 45 years. 868 patients (60.07%) were in contact with a known infected person, 318 patients (22.02%) were health workers, and 782 patients (57.63%) were informed about work exposure. 545 patients (37.72%) were overweight, primarily women 310 (42.29%). 609 patients (42.65%) showed symptoms after the acute period, and 331 individuals (23.49%) reported some sequelae. Conclusion The epidemiological and clinical behavior of hospitalized and critical patients differs greatly from ambulatory or mild or moderate symptoms. It is essential to highlight those non-hospitalized patients constitute the predominant population of patients, hence the importance of adequate management that would directly affect the development of complicated forms and, consequently, the collapse of healthcare centers. It is vitally important to open more investigations that compare hospitalized and outpatient patients to have a clearer picture of the epidemic. Copyright: © 2023 González-Andrade, Carrero. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
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Genetic Ancestry and Population Structure Across Ecuador
(2026)
González Andrade, Fabricio
Background: Ecuador is a genetically diverse population setting shaped by long-term interactions among Native American, European, and African populations across distinct ecological regions. Although multiple studies have examined ancestry patterns in Ecuadorian populations, the available evidence remains fragmented and methodologically heterogeneous. Objective: To systematically identify, critically appraise, and synthesize published studies on genetic ancestry and population structure in Ecuador. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020. Searches were performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, SciELO, and Google Scholar through 31 January 2026. Eligible studies reported extractable ancestry-related data from Ecuadorian populations using autosomal, mitochondrial DNA, Y-chromosomal, or other ancestry-relevant genetic markers. Methodological quality was assessed using an adapted Joanna Briggs Institute framework. Owing to substantial heterogeneity across marker systems, sampling strategies, and ancestry inference methods, findings were synthesized qualitatively rather than by meta-analysis. Results: Of 1243 records identified, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Across marker systems, the evidence consistently supported a three-way admixture framework involving Native American, European, and African ancestry components, together with substantial regional and population-specific heterogeneity. Autosomal studies generally showed higher Native American ancestry in Highland and Native American populations, whereas African ancestry was more prominent in Afro-Ecuadorian and some Coastal populations. Uniparental markers further supported persistent sex-biased admixture, with predominant Native American maternal lineages and comparatively greater European or African paternal contributions depending on region and population history. Conclusions: Ecuadorian populations share a broad three-way admixture framework, but with marked internal heterogeneity across regions and population groups. These findings highlight the importance of geographic and demographic context in ancestry interpretation and the need for larger, more balanced, and methodologically standardized genomic studies in Ecuador.
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Identification of a Pathogenic Mutation of the Lipase Maturation Factor 1 (LMF1) Gene Causing Recurrent Pancreatitis and Requiring Critical Care
(2025)
Andrés Fernando Montalvo
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González Andrade, Fabricio
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María José Molestina
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Jhonny Manuel Carranza
;
Claudio Maldonado
Background: Familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by extreme hypertriglyceridemia (>1000 mg/dL), recurrent pancreatitis, and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) deficiency. Mutations in the LMF1 gene, encoding a chaperone protein required for LPL maturation, can lead to combined lipase deficiency. This study reports a case of a 33-year-old Ecuadorian mestizo woman presenting with recurrent pancreatitis secondary to severe hypertriglyceridemia, in whom two LMF1 variants of uncertain significance (VUS) were identified. Methods: Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on the patient and her asymptomatic son using next-generation sequencing (NGS). Data analysis included computational pathogenicity predictors (REVEL, PolyPhen, SIFT, MutationTaster, etc.). Two LMF1 variants—c.1142C>T (p.Pro381Leu) and c.897G>A (p.Gln299Gln)—were identified. Their pathogenic potential was assessed based on allele frequency (gnomAD), bioinformatics predictions, and ACMG criteria. Results: Both variants were classified as VUS, with c.897G>A predicted to affect splicing, potentially leading to loss of function. The c.1142C>T (p.Pro381Leu) variant, despite its low frequency, remains unclassified due to insufficient evidence. The patient’s son carried one variant but was asymptomatic. The patient’s phenotype suggested an intermediate form between monogenic and polygenic hypertriglyceridemia. Conclusions: This is a new Ecuadorian report of LMF1-related hypertriglyceridemia, highlighting the need for functional studies to confirm pathogenicity. Given the classification of both variants as VUS, further research is required to elucidate their clinical significance. This case underscores the necessity of a combined genetic and biochemical approach for diagnosing and managing severe hypertriglyceridemia.
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Demographic, Functional, and Risk Factors Characterization in Ecuadorian Mestizo Patients With Microtia: A Retrospective Study
(2024)
González Andrade, Fabricio
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Fausto Coello
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Ramiro López-Pulles
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Guillermo Fuenmayor
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Edwin Andrade
Objective: This paper compares demographic, morphological, functional, and risk factors between isolated and familial forms of microtia in Ecuadorian mestizo patients. Methods: The authors did an epidemiological, and retrospective study with 112 patients divided into isolated microtia (n = 91) and familial microtia (n = 21). Patients with syndromic microtia were not included. Results: In isolated microtia, the mean age was 11.80 ± 16.9, and the most prevalent age group was from 5 to 9 years, with 45.0%; males were 58.2%, and 91.2% of patients were born in a city above 2500 meters about sea level. In familial microtia, the mean age was 15.57 ± 17.2. There were no statistically significant differences between the analyzed variables. In isolated microtia, 41.8% of patients had bilateral involvement, 40.7% had grade 1 microtia in the right ear (RE), and grade 1 in the left ear was 47.3%; external auditory canal atresia of RE was present in 62.6%, and in left ear in 31.6%. External auditory canal atresia sidedness was mostly unilateral in both groups. Most patients did not have tags or pits (78% and 81% in RE and 85.7% and 71.4%). Most patients had moderate hearing loss in both ears. Conclusion: The authors found an association between both microtia forms with external auditory canal atresia in RE; only 20% of patients had unilateral auricular tags or pits in both groups. The authors also found a high incidence (18.75%) of familial microtia, which suggests a distinct pathological genetic component than the more prevalent isolated cases. The authors found a high association of microtia cases from the Ecuadorian highlands above 2500 meters about sea level (over 90%). The presence of “social” intake of alcohol during pregnancy showed over twice the chance of having a child born with microtia.
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Angiographic Predictors of Intracranial Aneurysm Rupture: A Morphological and Epidemiological Study in Ecuadorian Patients
(2025)
Luis Nuñez-Del-Arco
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González Andrade, Fabricio
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Gabriel Flores-Enderica
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Franz Durán-Carrillo
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Germán Abdo-Sarras
Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) pose a significant public health threat due to their potential to rupture, causing subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and high rates of morbidity and mortality. In Ecuador, limited access to endovascular treatment heightens the need for early risk identification. To analyze the morphological and demographic characteristics associated with aneurysm rupture in Ecuadorian patients and to develop a predictive model for rupture risk. A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted involving 236 patients with 302 intracranial aneurysms diagnosed at a tertiary center in Quito, Ecuador. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, aneurysm morphology (size, angulation, location), and treatment approach. Logistic regression was used to identify rupture predictors, and a predictive model was developed. The mean age was 48.42 years; most patients were female (69.49%) and mestizo (98.3%). Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (41.1%). Rupture was observed in 72.45% of aneurysms, with SAH being the most frequent presentation. Aneurysms in the PComm (OR: 2.71, p < 0.001) and AComA (OR: 3.63, p = 0.001), with a length > 4.43 mm (OR: 3.68, p = 0.0001) or Type 2 angle (45–90°, OR: 1.81, p = 0.01), had significantly higher rupture risk. The final model showed 64.6% accuracy (AUC: 0.692). Morphological features are strong predictors of rupture and may guide early intervention. The proposed model is simple and practical, with potential for integration into triage protocols, especially in resource-limited settings. These findings highlight the importance of morphology-based risk assessment in improving aneurysm outcomes.
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MRI reveals scoliosis as a silent driver of lumbar facet joint degeneration in aging Ecuadorian adults
(2025)
Pablo Cueva-Medina
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Jorge Silva-Hidalgo
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González Andrade, Fabricio
Lumbar facet arthropathy (LFA) is a degenerative condition of the facet joints that contributes significantly to chronic low back pain (CLBP) yet remains underrecognized in standard diagnostic protocols. While aging and disc degeneration are established factors in the progression of LFA, the potential role of spinal deformities such as scoliosis has not been thoroughly investigated. This cross-sectional study examined the association between scoliosis severity and LFA in a non-surgical population of 284 Ecuadorian adults aged 30 to 80 years. Participants were classified by Cobb angle into normal, mild, moderate, and severe scoliosis categories and underwent MRI to assess facet joint degeneration at the L3–L4, L4–L5, and L5–S1 levels. Findings revealed that moderate scoliosis significantly increased the odds of severe LFA across all lumbar levels, particularly at L3–L4 (OR = 6.72) and L5–S1 (OR = 5.57). Mild scoliosis also posed a notable risk, with a threefold increase at L4–L5 and a twofold increase at L5–S1. Additionally, degeneration was more severe on the concave side of the scoliotic curve. Older age and female sex were also independently associated with more advanced degeneration. These results suggest that scoliosis, even in its mild forms, plays a significant role in the development and progression of LFA. The findings highlight the importance of including facet joint evaluation in routine scoliosis assessment and CLBP workups, particularly using MRI. Early identification of individuals at risk could inform preventive strategies and reduce long-term disability related to degenerative spinal disease.
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Hearing Loss Profiles in Sporadic and Familial Microtia: Clinical Insights From an Ecuadorian Cohort
(2025)
González Andrade, Fabricio
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Fausto Coello
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Edwin Andrade
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Henry Vásconez
Microtia is a congenital anomaly of the external ear that often leads to hearing loss due to associated auditory canal and middle ear malformations. While right‐ear predominance and conductive hearing loss are well‐documented, few studies have compared anatomical and audiological differences between sporadic and familial cases, especially in underrepresented populations.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Objective</jats:title><jats:p>To compare the clinical, anatomical, and auditory characteristics of patients with sporadic versus familial microtia in an Ecuadorian cohort.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Methods</jats:title><jats:p>A cross‐sectional study was conducted on 146 patients with microtia, classified as either sporadic or familial. Demographic, clinical, and risk factor data were collected through structured interviews. Audiological evaluations included auditory evoked potentials, otoacoustic emissions, tympanometry, pure‐tone audiometry, and speech audiometry, based on patient age and canal patency. Statistical analysis included Mann–Whitney U and Chi‐square tests (<jats:italic>p</jats:italic> < 0.05).</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Results</jats:title><jats:p>Right‐ear involvement was most common (45.45%). Grade 3 microtia was the most prevalent, while Grade 4 was observed exclusively in familial cases. Conductive hearing loss predominated (74.67% left ear, 83.33% right ear). Although no significant differences in hearing loss type or severity were found between groups, familial cases showed a trend toward more severe impairment. Otoacoustic emissions and stapedial reflexes were more frequently absent in right ears. Pure tone perception and speech recognition were also more impaired on the right side.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec><jats:title>Conclusion</jats:title><jats:p>Microtia is most commonly right‐sided and associated with significant conductive hearing loss. Familial cases may present with more severe features. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to mitigate developmental consequences, particularly in resource‐limited settings.
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Does living in the Andes make cerebral arteriovenous malformations more dangerous? high altitude fails to predict hemorrhage in a large Ecuadorian cohort
(2026)
Frank David Chamba-Vozmediano
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Germán Abdo-Sarras
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Franz Durán
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Carlos Flores-Enderica
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Tatiana Lemos-Garrido
Background: Chronic residence at high altitude (≥2500 masl) induces sustained physiological adaptations in cerebrovascular regulation, including hypoxia-driven angiogenesis, altered hemodynamics, and vascular remodeling. These mechanisms support the hypothesis that lifelong exposure to hypobaric hypoxia in the Ecuadorian Andes could modify the clinical presentation of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), although direct evidence remains limited. Objective: To evaluate whether chronic residence at high altitude is associated with hemorrhagic presentation of cerebral AVMs in adult patients treated at a national tertiary referral center in Quito, Ecuador. Methods: We conducted an observational, cross-sectional study of 229 adults diagnosed with cerebral AVMs by digital subtraction angiography between 2016 and 2023. Demographic characteristics, residential altitude during early life (first 18 years) and recent adulthood (preceding 10 years), vascular risk factors, AVM intrinsic vascular morphological features, and Spetzler–Martin and Spetzler–Ponce classifications were analyzed. Associations with hemorrhagic presentation at diagnosis were assessed using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests, Student’s t-tests, and descriptive modeling. Multivariable regression was explored but not performed due to limited variability in altitude exposure and collinearity among anatomical predictors. Results: Hemorrhagic presentation occurred in 61.1% of patients. >80% of the cohort resided at high altitude during both exposure periods. No statistically significant association was observed between high-altitude residence, either during early life or recent adulthood, and hemorrhagic presentation (p > 0.05). In contrast, intrinsic vascular morphological features showed significant associations with hemorrhage, including deep or subcortical nidus location and higher Spetzler–Martin and Spetzler–Ponce grades (p < 0.05). Traditional vascular risk factors, including hypertension and smoking, did not differ between altitude exposure groups. Conclusion: In this predominantly high-altitude Andean cohort, chronic residence at high altitude was not detectably associated with hemorrhagic presentation of cerebral AVMs. Instead, established intrinsic vascular morphological features remained the dominant predictors of rupture at diagnosis. Given the homogeneity of altitude exposure, these findings likely reflect limited power to detect subtle effects rather than definitive absence of an altitude influence. Multicenter studies with broader altitude variability, physiological markers of hypoxia, and longitudinal follow-up are needed to further clarify the role of environmental hypoxia in AVM natural history. © 2026 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
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González Andrade, Fabricio

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