Homeopathy was founded some two hundred years ago by Dr Samuel Christian Hahnemann. Over time, it has grown to be among the most frequently used forms of alternative medicine in Europe and the USA. It is underpinned by the principle of ‘like cures like’, where highly diluted substances are used for therapeutic purposes, by producing similar symptoms to when the substance is used in healthy people. Many studies have been published on the value of homeopathy in treating diseases such as cancer, depression, psoriasis, allergic rhinitis, asthma, otitis, migraine, neuroses, allergies, joint disease, insomnia, sinusitis, urinary tract infections and acne, to name a few. We conducted a comprehensive review of the literature on homeopathy and evaluated its effectiveness in clinical practice. While there is evidence of the clinical benefits of homeopathy, its formal application requires more rigorous randomised controlled trials.
6 May 2024 in Electronic Journal of General Medicine
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now a major challenge to clinicians in treating patients. The purpose of our study was to determine the incidence of multidrug resistant (MDR) strains and antibiotic resistance profile in department of dermatology-venereology from a Romanian infectious disease’s hospital. We analyzed 1,152 bacterial strains, we obtained 34.5% MDR strains, identifying the following species: staphylococcus aureus 43.6%, enterococcus spp 16.7%, escherichia coli 31.0%, proteus spp 27.1%, klebsiella spp. 22.4%, pseudomonas spp. 34.8%. Overall, the rate of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus was 76.1%; extended spectrum beta-lactamase production was 46.1% for escherichia coli and 66.0% for klebsiella pneumoniae; carbapenems-resistance was 51.0% for pseudomonas aeruginosa. All strains of E. coli and klebsiella were sensitive to meropenem. Our results confirm the high level of AMR, and continuous monitoring is essential for updating the local diagnostic and treatment protocols for dermatological infections.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has increasingly contributed to advancements in pharmaceutical practice, particularly by enhancing the pharmacist–patient relationship and improving medication adherence. This quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study investigated Eastern Romanian pharmacists’ perception of AI-based applications as effective optimization tools, correlating it with disruptive communication factors. An anonymous and online questionnaire was distributed to community pharmacists, examining sociodemographic characteristics, awareness of disruptive factors, and the perceived usefulness of AI. The sample included 437 respondents: pharmacists (55.6%), mostly female (83.8%), and aged between 25 and 44 (52.6%). Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and independent t-tests. The statistical analysis revealed a significantly positive perception (p < 0.001) of AI on pharmacist–patient communication. Respondents viewed AI as a valuable tool for reducing medication errors and optimizing counseling time, though they maintain a strong emphasis on genuine human interaction. Significant correlations were found between disruptive factors—such as noise and high patient volume—and the quality of communication. Participants also expressed an increased interest in applications like automatic prescription scheduling and the use of chatbots. The study concludes that a balanced implementation of AI technologies is necessary, one that runs parallel with the continuous development of pharmacists’ communication skills. Future research should focus on validating AI’s impact on clinical outcomes and establishing clear ethical guidelines regarding the use of patient data.
15 September 2024 in Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
This paper examines the effectiveness of custom dental implants in managing oral complications associated with Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel condition that can significantly affect patients’ oral health. By reviewing the existing literature and studying clinical cases, we analyze the success rates of dental implants, their integration in the context of immunosuppressive treatments, the improvement of masticatory function, and their impact on the quality of life of patients. Reviewed studies indicate that, with proper planning and careful postoperative management, dental implants can provide a durable and effective solution for patients with Crohn’s disease, with success rates comparable to those of the general population. We also discuss the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in the planning and implementation of personalized dental treatments, as well as the need for continuous monitoring to prevent complications. The results highlight the potential of dental implants to significantly improve oral functionality and aesthetics, thus contributing to the overall improvement of the quality of life of patients with Crohn’s disease. These findings encourage greater attention to the personalization of dental treatments for this category of patients, given the complexity of managing their health condition.
Cutaneous viral infections result from the complex interaction between viruses and skin structures, influenced by viral tropism and the host immune response. They can generate lesions ranging from transient rashes to chronic or potentially tumorous formations. Cutaneous manifestations are often the first sign of infection and allow for early recognition. The aim of this review is to analyze the role of viruses in skin pathology, the mechanisms of infection, and the clinical impact. A narrative review of the recent literature was performed, including original articles, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines on cutaneous viral infections. Data on pathogenic mechanisms, types of lesions, evolution, and therapeutic options were evaluated, covering the main viruses involved in dermatology: herpesviruses, papillomaviruses, poxviruses, and viruses associated with acute rashes. Cutaneous viral infections can be self-limited, recurrent, or chronic, and some can promote malignant transformation of skin cells. The variability of clinical manifestations reflects the virus–host interaction and influences diagnosis and management. Recent advances highlight the development of vaccines and targeted antiviral therapies, which improve prognosis and infection control. Viruses play a major role in the etiology of skin diseases, and their early recognition is essential for preventing complications. Understanding the mechanisms of infection and the cutaneous response contributes to the optimization of therapeutic and preventive strategies, strengthening the modern management of viral cutaneous pathology.
9 April 2025 in Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is an antiplatelet agent widely used in cardiology and has an essential role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. By irreversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), ASA reduces platelet aggregation and the risk of thrombotic events, being recommended in the secondary prevention of myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. It is also a central element in the treatment of acute coronary syndromes, administered in combination with other antiplatelet agents. However, its use is not without risks, the main adverse effects being gastrointestinal and intracranial hemorrhages. In primary prevention, the benefits are questionable, requiring a careful evaluation of the risk-benefit ratio. Current research is exploring strategies for optimizing the administration of ASA, including dose adjustment, intermittent administration, and identifying biomarkers that allow for personalized use. The development of safer alternatives and innovative formulations could improve the safety profile of ASA in the future. Thus, individualization of treatment remains essential to maximize efficiency and reduce associated risks.