Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and psoriasis (Ps) are two clinically distinct diseases with different pathogenesis. However, recent studies indicate some similarities in both clinical presentation and pathogenetic mechanisms. The coexistence of both entities is very uncommon and has not been fully elucidated. Thus, it remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. In fact, drugs used in SLE can induce psoriatic lesions, whereas phototherapy effective in Ps is an important factor provoking skin lesions in patients with SLE. The aim of this work is to discuss in detail the common pathogenetic elements and the therapeutic options effective in both diseases.
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.
Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, multisystemic, inflammatory disease affecting approximately 1% of children and significantly reducing their health-related quality of life. Etanercept is a biologic fusion protein-blocking TNF-α and belongs to one of the biologics used among the children population. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety profile of etanercept in paediatric patients with plaque-type psoriasis. Material and methods: The outcome of the treatment was evaluated based on Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Body Surface Area (BSA), and Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Achievement of at least PASI75 at week 16 was assessed as an adequate response to therapy, which was the primary endpoint. Results: Forty-three paediatric patients were included in the study, 24 females and 19 males. The average age at inclusion into our study was 13 years. At baseline, the mean PASI score, BSA, and CDLQI were 16.3 ± 6.5, 22.3 ± 12.2%, and 17.4 ± 5.3, respectively. At week 16, 90.7% of patients achieved PASI 50, 79.1% achieved PASI 75, and 46.5% attained PASI 90. There was also a decrease in mean BSA and CDLQI values to 3.5 ± 3.8 and 5.4 ± 5.7, respectively. Conclusions: Etanercept proved to be effective, safe, and well-tolerated among the paediatric population with psoriasis.
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.
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.
26 May 2024 in Journal of Education, Health and Sport
Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) has revolutionized diagnostic imaging by significantly improving the accuracy and capabilities of ultrasound technology. By utilizing contrast agents, CEUS offers enhanced visualization of blood flow, superior detection of vascular diseases, and delineation of pathological from healthy tissues. Real-time imaging capabilities afforded by CEUS have been shown to be instrumental in guiding interventions and assessing treatment efficacy, thereby contributing to personalized patient care and improved clinical outcomes. This document provides a comprehensive review of the current benefits, limitations, and future directions of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography. It acknowledges the potential for allergic reactions, the necessity for specialized training, high costs, and the occurrence of image artifacts as drawbacks, while also anticipating advancements in targeted agents and imaging techniques. Moreover, the document emphasizes the need for ongoing research to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of contrast agents and their impact across various medical disciplines. Despite the challenges, the integration of CEUS into clinical practice holds enormous potential to further refine diagnostic processes and enhance patient management.