Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a genetically heterogeneous cancer that accounts for 10–15% of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cases. The T-ALL event-free survival rate (EFS) is 85%. The evaluation of structural and numerical chromosomal changes is important for a comprehensive biological characterization of T-ALL, but there are currently no genetic prognostic markers. Despite chemotherapy regimens, steroids, and allogeneic transplantation, relapse is the main problem in children with T-ALL. Due to the development of high-throughput molecular methods, the ability to define subgroups of T-ALL has significantly improved in the last few years. The profiling of the gene expression of T-ALL has led to the identification of T-ALL subgroups, and it is important in determining prognostic factors and choosing an appropriate treatment. Novel therapies targeting molecular aberrations offer promise in achieving better first remission with the hope of preventing relapse. The employment of precisely targeted therapeutic approaches is expected to improve the cure of the disease and quality of life of patients. These include therapies that inhibit Notch1 activation (bortezomib), JAK inhibitors in ETP-ALL (ruxolitinib), BCL inhibitors (venetoclax), and anti-CD38 therapy (daratumumab). Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) is under investigation, but it requires further development and trials. Nelarabine-based regimens remain the standard for treating the relapse of T-ALL.

Introduction and purpose of the study: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome (SIBO) is a syndrome characterized by an increased number of bacteria in the small intestine. The condition causes many non-specific symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating. The purpose of this study is to review the current knowledge regarding treatment options for SIBO.                                            Methodology: A literature review was conducted based on PubMed, GoogleScholar databases and American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) guidelines. Current knowledge: SIBO is a heterogeneous syndrome. Symptoms of bacterial overgrowth include bloating, abdominal pain and abnormal bowel motility. In more severe cases, patients may experience malabsorption leading to weight loss and malnutrition. SIBO can occur in healthy individuals, but very often accompanies other conditions. The primary test for diagnosis is non-invasive lactulose or glucose breath tests. For treatment, the antibiotic rifaximin is preferred. It exhibits a broad spectrum of activity and a low toxicity profile. Treatment may also include diet therapy and the use of probiotics. Summary: SIBO continues to be both a diagnostic and therapeutic problem. Effective treatment includes not only elimination of the bacteria but also treatment of predisposing conditions. Conclusions of the study show a positive effect of rifaximin on the reduction of SIBO symptoms and improvement of patients' quality of life. The use of certain probiotics has a proven effect. According to the currently available literature, the effectiveness of the low-FODMAP diet in SIBO is hypothetical and further studies are needed to unequivocally confirm its efficacy.

In this review, current methods of treating Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection are discussed. H. pylori is one of the most common pathogens causing gastrointestinal discomfort. It is considered a major cause of peptic ulcer disease, stomach and duodenal cancer, and MALT lymphoma. The authors analyzed the results of clinical studies regarding the efficacy of various treatment regimens, such as quadruple therapy, triple therapy, therapy with probiotics, therapy with the addition of phytochemical compounds, and therapy with a single drug. In addition, indications for eradication therapy were discussed. The conclusions of the review indicate the need for an individualized approach to the treatment of H. pylori infection, taking into account the rapidly increasing antibiotic resistance and patient risk factors for eradication.

Introduction and purpose of the study: COVID-19 is a respiratory illness resulting from infection with the second coronavirus of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, SARS-CoV-2. Lack of knowledge about the virus and fear of infection made it challenging for the media to communicate clearly and effectively about health risks. The purpose of our work was to discuss and summarize reports on this topic available in the literature in such a way as to increase the chances of effective and safe use of media messages in future emergencies. Current state of knowledge: During the pandemic, social networks were used to post information about potential health risks. Social media played a large role in the education process, both for schools and for volunteers or health care workers. However, it is important to keep in mind that the way information is spread on social media can be overwhelming for many health care workers. In addition, regular exposure to social media correlated with high odds of anxiety and depression. False reports about COVID - 19 vaccines undermined public confidence in vaccination especially during the period when the vaccines were introduced for distribution. Summary: Social media was one of the main sources of information after the pandemic outbreak. Thanks to platforms such as Twitter, it was possible to find relevant information from reliable authors. However, the phenomenon of infodemia should not be underestimated. Disinformation and conspiracy theories can have a negative impact on mental health. It is therefore crucial to understand the mechanisms and improve the systems that manage the flow of information.

Introduction and objective: The sun emits ultraviolet radiation in the UV-A, UV-B and UV-C ranges. Photoprotection is used to prevent the impact of this radiation on the skin. It effectively counteracts photoaging, photodermatoses and photocarcinogenesis. The aim of the study is to discuss the impact of UV radiation on the skin and the role of sun protection, also in special groups of patients - children and non-immunocompetent people. The article also presents a summary of data on the effect of sunscreens on vitamin D synthesis. Materials and methods: The literature was reviewed in the Pubmed, Google Scholar database and in the recommendations of the Polish Dermatological Society with the use of keywords. State of knowledge: Erythema is the most visible effect of sunburn, but exposure to UV radiation is primarily photocarcinogenesis or photoimmunosuppression. The SPF factor is the main determinant of the effectiveness of sunscreens, but effective protection against both UVB and UVA radiation is essential. Daily use of sunscreen reduces skin damage associated with exposure to light and does not negatively affect vitamin D synthesis. Conclusions: The basis of skin protection is using sunscreens, avoiding excessive exposure to solar radiation and using protective clothing, hats and sunglasses. Thanks to these activities, we can significantly reduce the number of cases of certain skin cancers. It is also important to remember that sun protection applies to everyone, especially children and non-immunocompetent people.

Introduction: Lithium is one of the longest used drugs in psychiatry and is currently a mainstay in the long-term prophylaxis of bipolar disorder, preventing recurrent manic and depressive episodes. It also remains an important drug in the treatment of acute episodes of mania and depression. Out of the normothymic drugs, lithium has the greatest effect in preventing suicidal behavior. It also exhibits antiviral activity and in recent years evidence has also accumulated of the drug's neuroprotective properties. Aim of the study: The aim was to collect and analyze publications on the use of lithium in affective disorders, dementia and viral diseases, as well as its effect on reducing suicidal tendencies. Materials and Methods: The literature available in the PubMed database was reviewed, using the key words: "lithium"; "bipolar disorder"; "mania", "depression"; "suicidal risk", "side effects". Results: Chronic use of lithium in patients with bipolar disorder has an effect on preventing recurrence of manic and depressive episodes and can successfully last for 40 years or longer. Studies support the theory that long-term lithium pharmacotherapy has a significant impact on preventing suicidal tendencies among patients with affective disorders. In recent years, the antiviral and neuroprotective properties of the drug have also become known. Despite the rather high risk of overdose, as well as the occurrence of numerous side effects, lithium is still very often used in the treatment of affective disorders due to its high efficacy. Conclusions: Lithium has been one of the mainstays of psychopharmacology for several decades and is a precursor to mood-stabilizing drugs. In recent years evidence has also been collected for its potential use in non-psychiatric conditions. Conducting further research on lithium will certainly allow for wider use of the drug and a more thorough understanding of its mechanism of action.