Many researchers propose manipulating microbiota to prevent and treat related diseases. The brain–gut axis is an object that remains the target of modern research, and it is not without reason that many researchers enrich it with microbiota and diet in its name. Numerous connections and mutual correlations have become the basis for seeking answers to many questions related to pathology as well as human physiology. Disorders of this homeostasis as well as dysbiosis itself accompany neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Heavily dependent on external factors, modulation of the gut microbiome represents an opportunity to advance the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Probiotic interventions, synbiotic interventions, or fecal transplantation can undoubtedly support the biotherapeutic process. A special role is played by diet, which provides metabolites that directly affect the body and the microbiota. A holistic view of the human organism is therefore essential.
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition that primarily affects premature infants, although it can also occur in full-term infants. It is characterized by inflammation and injury of the intestinal tissue, which can progress to necrosis and perforation of the bowel. NEC is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), particularly among very low birth weight infants. Diagnosis of NEC is based on clinical signs and symptoms, radiographic findings, and laboratory tests. Management of NEC involves a multidisciplinary approach, including supportive care, medical therapy, and surgical intervention when necessary. Supportive care includes bowel rest, intravenous fluids, and nutritional support. Medical therapy may include antibiotics, gastric decompression, and parenteral nutrition. Surgical intervention may be required for infants with intestinal perforation, severe NEC, or complications such as intestinal stricture or short bowel syndrome. This condition and its complications may carry consequences for life and especially sport performance in the child’s future. Strategies for preventing NEC include promoting breastfeeding, avoiding unnecessary antibiotic exposure, minimizing enteral feeding interruptions, practicing strict infection control measures, and implementing protocols for gradual feeding advancement in premature infants. Overall, NEC is a complex and multifactorial disease that poses significant challenges in neonatal care. Early recognition, prompt intervention, and comprehensive management are essential for optimizing outcomes for affected infants. Further research is needed to better understand the pathophysiology of NEC and to develop more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Personality disorders refer to a collection of mental health conditions defined by persistent deviations from societal norms in thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. These deviations frequently result in challenges in interpersonal relationships, self-perception, and overall functioning, potentially causing distress in various aspects of life. The DSM-5 classifies personality disorders into three clusters. Cluster A contains paranoid, schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders which are characterized by strange and eccentric behaviors. Cluster B contains narcissistic, histrionic and antisocial personality disorders which are characterized by dramatic and emotional behaviors. Cluster C contains avoidant, dependent and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders which are characterized by anxious and fearful behaviors.
Introduction: Gout is the most common rheumatic disease in adults, with prevalence ranging from 0.1% to about 10%. It results from the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals (MUC) in the joints and tissues. A thorough understanding of the clinical presentation, diagnostic factors and available treatment options can significantly reduce the prevalence of gout attacks, minimize joint damage and improve patients' physical function. The aim of this article is to provide clinicians and patients with a summary of the most recent information regarding this condition in order to decrease risk of joint damage and ultimately enhance patient’s quality of life. Review methods: A review of the literature from PubMed (2010-2023) was conducted. The articles were selected based on specific keywords and then evaluated for their significance and suitability for inclusion in this review. Description the state of knowledge: Gout is an inflammatory arthritis associated with hyperuricemia, defined as elevated level of uric acid in the blood (> 7 mg/dl (420 µmol/l)). Initially, acute gouty arthritis is characterised by sudden onset of severe pain, erythema and swelling, significantly reducing range of movement. However, as disease progresses, chronic, tophaceous gout can develop potentially leading to bone deformities and other complications. Treatment of gout includes management of the attacks and chronic uric acid-lowering therapy. Summary: Gout is a complex disease with various factors contributing to its clinical presentation. Its management requires a multidisciplinary approach including medication management, dietary counselling and lifestyle modification. Early diagnosis as well as appropriate treatment are essential to optimise patient outcomes and maintain patients' physical function.
Introduction and purpose Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) remains a significant concern in clinical practice, particularly among patients undergoing contrast-enhanced imaging or interventional procedures. Characterized by an acute decline in renal function following exposure to contrast media, CIN not only poses substantial morbidity and mortality risks but also presents challenges in patient management and healthcare resource utilization. Despite extensive research efforts, the precise pathophysiology of CIN remains incompletely understood, with multifactorial mechanisms involving renal ischemia, oxidative stress, and direct tubular toxicity implicated in its development. This review explores the impact of hydration and other prophylactic strategies on the prevention of CIN. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of various hydration protocols, including isotonic saline and bicarbonate solutions, in reducing the incidence of CIN. Additionally, the review evaluates the efficacy of pharmacological agents such as N-acetylcysteine, statins, and ascorbic acid, as well as emerging techniques like remote ischemic preconditioning.
Dyslipidemia is a medical term used to describe an abnormal level of lipids (fats) in the blood. This can include elevated levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high density protein lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and serum triglicerides. Depression, also known as depressive disorder, is a common mental illness. It is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, loss of pleasure, or lack of interest in activities that are present of at least two weeks and significantly impair patient everyday functioning. Dyslipidemia and depression can co-occur due to a complex interplay of shared risk factors, such as inflammation, metabolic syndrome, medication side effects, and lifestyle changes, suggesting a bidirectional relationship where each condition might contribute to the development or exacerbation of the other. Given these considerations, a comprehensive approach to managing dyslipidemia in psychiatric patients with depression is essential. This should include regular monitoring of lipid profiles and monitoring of anticholesterol and antidepressant drugs. Interestingly, simple lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise, have an impact on the treatment of depression and dyslipidemia.