The risk assessment for carotid atherosclerotic lesions involves not only determining the degree of stenosis but also plaque morphology and its composition. Recently, carotid contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has gained importance for evaluating vulnerable plaques. This review explores CEUS’s utility in detecting carotid plaque surface irregularities and ulcerations as well as intraplaque neovascularization and its alignment with histology. Initial indications suggest that CEUS might have the potential to anticipate cerebrovascular incidents. Nevertheless, there is a need for extensive, multicenter prospective studies that explore the relationships between CEUS observations and patient clinical outcomes in cases of carotid atherosclerotic disease.

Deep vein thrombosis impacts between 2.5% and 5% of a population. It mostly affects lower-extremity veins and presents itself as pain, swelling, tenderness, and erythema of an affected region. Thrombus forms when at least one factor from the Virchow's triad is present - vascular damage, venous stasis or hypercoagulability. A range of clinical manifestations is very wide, from asymptomatic to life-threatening course of the disease. Post-thrombotic syndrome is a frequent complication that results in venous hypertension, which leads to tissue edema, subcutaneous fibrosis, and subsequent ulceration. In the diagnostic process, predominantly D-dimer assay and ultrasonographic compression test are performed. Noninvasive treatment relies on anticoagulation therapy which is based on direct oral anticoagulants, parenteral anticoagulants, and vitamin K antagonists. In specific cases, there is an option of invasive treatment, which involves inserting a catheter into a vein with a thrombus. Afterward, a thrombus can be mechanically fragmented and aspired or dissolved with the use of a thrombolytic agent.

Introduction and purpose: Management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is difficult since the exact pathogenic mechanism has not been established yet. Due to that fact, the substances registered to treat PCOS are still lacking efficacy and are associated with a number of adverse effects. The aim of this study is to review new possible treatment approaches. State of knowledge: Inositol administered alone or combined with oral contraceptive drugs improves patients’ hormonal status and alleviates the weight increase in comparison to oral contraceptive drugs on their own. Berberine reduces insulin resistance, improves lipid metabolism, and reduces inflammatory reactions. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists have a better weight loss effect and less severe adverse reactions than metformin. Thiazolidinediones combined with metformin improve ovulation rate, acne and increase SHGB levels. Thiazolidinediones have also less severe adverse reactions than metformin and can be useful in patients who are not able to tolerate metformin. Summary: The review has shown that inositol, berberine, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists andthiazolidinediones have promising therapeutic effects in terms of PCOS treatment, however, more research is needed to establish safety and efficacy of those agents. Nonetheless, results of this study may be utilized in the education of health specialists in endocrinology departments.

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the evolving role of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) - the gold standard in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis and other sinus diseases. Advances in diagnostic imaging, surgical instruments, and navigation systems have significantly improved the safety and efficacy of this technique. This study provides an overview of the FESS technique, and its expanding indications - application in the treatment of selected sinus tumors, such as inverted papilloma, juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA), and osteomas. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted, focusing on the development of FESS, its surgical technique, safety profile, and clinical outcomes. Special attention was given to its comparison with traditional open approaches in both inflammatory and neoplastic conditions of the sinonasal tract. Key Findings: The analysis revealed that technological progress - particularly in diagnostic imaging, surgical instruments, and intraoperative navigation - has significantly improved the precision and safety of FESS. Clinical evidence demonstrates that endoscopic resection of sinonasal tumors often achieves recurrence rates equal to or lower than those associated with open surgery, while minimizing morbidity, hospitalization time, and facial disfigurement. Successful outcomes depend on appropriate patient selection, meticulous preoperative planning, and the surgeon’s expertise. Conclusions: Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery is a safe and effective modality for treating a wide range of sinonasal diseases, including chronic rhinosinusitis and selected benign tumors. With proper patient selection, preoperative planning, and surgical expertise, FESS offers substantial benefits over traditional open approaches, including reduced morbidity and improved recovery. Continued technological advancements and long-term outcome studies will further refine its role in comprehensive sinonasal care.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that affects the endocardium, heart valves, or implanted cardiac devices. It can present with a broad range of nonspecific symptoms, making early diagnosis difficult. The condition is typically confirmed through the detection of bacteremia and various imaging techniques, such as echocardiography, computed tomography (CT), and nuclear imaging. These tests can reveal anatomical changes or areas of altered metabolism, particularly on the heart valves or around foreign materials, such as prosthetic valves or cardiac devices. Treatment of IE generally involves a combination of antibiotic therapy and, in some cases, surgical intervention, with the decision for surgery depending on the patient’s evolving clinical status. Over time, the epidemiology of IE has shifted, largely due to the increasing use of prosthetic valves and implantable devices, resulting in a higher incidence among older patients with multiple comorbidities. Historically, Streptococci and Enterococci were the primary causative organisms, but recent trends show a rise in infections caused by Staphylococci species and non-HACEK organisms. The management of IE requires early recognition, tailored antibiotic therapy, and timely surgical intervention when necessary. A multidisciplinary approach involving cardiologists, infectious disease specialists, and surgeons is essential for optimal care, given the complexity and high mortality associated with the condition. This review highlights the evolving epidemiology, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies for IE, emphasizing the importance of early detection and coordinated care.

Eating disorders (EDs) represent a critical and complex issue in sports, particularly among athletes exposed to high-performance demands and appearance-related pressures. Athletic participation is generally associated with health and psychological benefits. However, certain environments increase the risk of developing disordered eating (DE) behaviors. This systematic review examines the epidemiology and risk factors associated with EDs in athletic populations. It focuses particularly on high-risk groups such as female athletes and participants in leanness-focused sports. It introduces a developing understanding of low energy availability, as conceptualized in the Female Athlete Triad and the broader Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) model. The review outlines the multi-system health consequences of RED-S, including effects on reproductive, cardiovascular, immune, and psychological function. Moreover, it highlights the diagnostic challenges in sports settings, where restrictive eating is often normalized or hidden. Finally, the review synthesizes current evidence on clinical management, treatment strategies, and the importance of educational and preventive interventions within sport environments to protect athlete health and performance. Comprehensive awareness and early multidisciplinary interventions are essential for addressing EDs and supporting sustainable athletic careers.