Introduction and purpose: Vitamin D is a micronutrient whose main role in the human body is to ensure proper calcium-phosphate balance and adequate bone metabolism, having an effect on the immune system, also exhibiting a number of other actions, in particular anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects, so that its deficiency is reflected in a number of autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this study is to analyze the literature for the role of vitamin D in multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroiditis, inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease. Materials and methods: a thorough analysis of the medical literature available in the PubMed database was performed. Current state of knowledge: The main role of vitamin D in the human body is to ensure calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and, influence adequate bone metabolism. Vitamin D receptors (VDR), are present in many tissues such as brain, prostate, pancreas, breast, colon and immune cells, suggesting that vitamin D also has extra-skeletal functions and a link to autoimmune diseases. Summary: Low serum vitamin D levels may increase the risk of immune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune thyroid diseases, celiac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Porokeratoses represent a rare group of skin diseases characterized by abnormal keratinization. The condition may have a genetic background and can be triggered by environmental factors, including UV exposure and infections. Several clinical variants of porokeratosis can be distinguished, including Mibelli’s porokeratosis, disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis, superficial disseminated porokeratosis, and porokeratosis palmaris plantaris et disseminata. Diagnosis is established based on clinical and histopathological examination, dermatoscopy, and reflectance confocal microscopy. Various treatment options are available, including topical combination therapy with cholesterol and statins, topical retinoids, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical excision of lesions, but none are fully effective. The success of these treatments can vary significantly based on the specific type of porokeratosis and individual patient characteristics, with many outcomes falling short of expectations. Since the disease is considered a precancerous condition, patients with porokeratosis should remain under regular dermatological control.
Introduction and objective: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastroenterological disorder affecting 9% to 23% of the population worldwide. The disease causes recurrent abdominal pain and abnormal bowel movements without visible anatomical or biochemical changes and diagnosis is often difficult. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the current knowledge of the pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment of IBS. Review methods: The literature available in the PubMed database was reviewed using the following key words: "irritable bowel syndrome," "constipation," "diarrhea", "abdominal pain", "diagnostics", "treatment". 49 articles were included in the review and 80% were from 2016-2024. Current state of knowledge: The pathophysiology of IBS is not fully understood, but it is recognized that the disease is a disorder of the gut-brain axis. It can lead to abnormal secretion of serotonin and dopamine, which affects symptoms. The diagnosis of IBS is based on the Rome IV Criteria, defining the characteristics and severity of symptoms. Summary: IBS is a disorder that significantly affects quality of life. Diagnosis is based on the exclusion of organic diseases and meeting certain criteria. Treatment includes both dietary modification and pharmacotherapy aimed at relieving symptoms. Despite advances in research, the pathophysiology of IBS is still not fully understood, making it difficult to develop effective treatments.
Introduction and purpose: Traditional rehabilitation methods often have limitations in improving motor function and cognitive abilities. This review aims to provide an updated overview of innovative methods in rehabilitation, focusing on the role of immersive and interactive technologies in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes. The literature suggests that these technologies can improve upper limb mobility, grip strength, and manual dexterity, as well as cognitive function, attention, and spatial awareness. Additionally, innovative balance and gait rehabilitation programs have been shown to improve functional mobility and reduce the risk of falls. The use of these technologies in combination with other rehabilitation modalities, such as electrostimulation and robotic assistance, may lead to even greater improvements in motor function and cognitive abilities. While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits and limitations of these innovative approaches, the existing evidence suggests that they have the potential to revolutionize rehabilitation and improve quality of life for patients. Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed with search phrases immersive and interactive technologies and rehabilitation. Description of the state of knowledge: Traditional rehabilitation methods often have limitations in improving motor function and cognitive abilities.Upper extremity impairment is a common and debilitating consequence of stroke. Summary: imersive and interactive technologies have the potential to improve upper limb mobility, grip strength, and manual dexterity, as well as cognitive function, attention, and spatial awareness. Innovative balance and gait rehabilitation programs have been shown to improve functional mobility and reduce the risk of falls. The use of these technologies in combination with other rehabilitation modalities may lead to even greater improvements in motor function and cognitive abilities.
Pregnancy and the first year after birth are special periods for the monitoring and treatment of mental illness. During these periods, numerous conditions are diagnosed including depressive disorders (11%), anxiety disorders (15%), bipolar disorders (20.1%) and psychotic disorders (0,1-0,2%). Of interest is the potential impact of psychiatric treatment on plans to have children and the need for treatment during pregnancy. Aims: To identify the factors enabling the psychiatrist, in collaboration with obstetricians, anesthesiologists, and psychologists, to take the risk of prescribing in pregnancy and the postpartum. Methods: A literature review was conducted using the PubMed database with the search items identical to keywords. Results: Still many psychiatric disorders in pregnancy and the postpartum left unrecognized and undertreated, which might increase the risk of complications and development problems for foetus and infant due to medical and psychological factors. Mental disorders are the leading causes of maternal death which might be associated with stigma and fear, making it impossible to ask for professional help. Conclusions: The appropriate medical care for pregnant women and mothers with psychiatric disorders should include the whole service of medical professionals familiar with all the complexity and difficulty of mental disorders. The decision of treatment in such cases always has an impact not only on mothers but also on newborns.
Introduction and purpose: Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder, affecting significantly more women, especially during their childbearing years, due to its unique link to the menstrual cycle. Over 50% of women with migraines report a connection between their attacks and menstruation. This review aims to highlight the latest data on the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and treatment of menstrual migraines, emphasizing the need for increased attention to this condition. Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, with search phrases including menstrual migraine, migraine, menstruation, migraine diagnosis, migraine treatment, and non-pharmacological migraine treatments. Current Knowledge: Misinterpretation of diagnostic criteria results in conflicting information about the incidence, clinical characteristics, and treatment response of menstrual migraines. Furthermore, clinical studies often do not differentiate perimenstrual attacks. The role of ovarian hormones, particularly estrogen, in the pathogenesis of menstrual migraines complicates treatment efforts. Summary: Due to the common and debilitating nature of the menstrual migraine, more detailed research is essential to expand our understanding of its pathophysiology and to develop more effective treatments. Understanding the mechanisms behind menstrual migraines may lead to new treatment options targeting this specific condition.