In diagnostics, photons are used in basic methods such as computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET), which are pivotal tools for high-resolution, non-invasive tumor detection, offering insights into tumor staging and progression. Mentioned techniques facilitate early diagnosis and the planning of therapeutic strategies. However, new methods are emerging, enhancing the precision and detail of diagnostics, such as ultra-weak photon emission (UPE) imagining, two-photon fluorescence imaging, photo acoustic imaging, and others. Therapeutically, external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) uses photons to target cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissue. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses light-sensitive compounds activated by specific wavelengths, represents a photon-based treatment applicable to certain malignancies. Other treatments include photo thermal therapy (PTT), radio dynamic therapy (RDT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and more. These constantly evolving photon-driven technologies can be used to treat a broad spectrum of cancers, such as pancreatic, prostate, breast, and skin cancers. This review article discusses the latest photon-based methods in oncology, focusing on new possibilities, solutions, perspectives, and the potential disadvantages of these approaches.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the second most common type of leukemia in children, is a heterogeneous disease known to be caused by genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional changes, predominantly somatic and germline abnormalities. Despite significant improvement of overall survival rates, the prognosis of pediatric AML remains unfavorable in comparison with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially in relapsed or refractory settings. The current status and future directions are focused on establishing an accurate diagnosis and treatment strategies based on the genomic background. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies enable a broader understanding of the basis of the disease for the purpose of determining pathology-associated mutations and additional prognostic biomarkers in pediatric AML. This review focuses on providing an overview of the known and possible prognostic factors, as well as genetic landscape of pediatric AML patients and how it can be used to accurately differentiate and risk stratify patients. It also presents potential candidate modifications for risk adjustment and targeted therapy. Furthermore, we describe in this article a case of a 22-month-old male patient with relapsed M5 high-risk group (HRG) AML with complex karyotype. Due to belonging to the HRG, as well as unsatisfactory chemotherapy response, the patient underwent matched unrelated donor (MUD) stem cell transplantation (SCT).

Metformin, a widely prescribed treatment for type II diabetes, offers promising benefits beyond glycemic control, including improved lipid profiles and cardiovascular outcomes. It inhibits gluconeogenesis in the liver by activating AMPK, thereby reducing glucose production and enhancing glucose uptake in muscle. Recent studies highlight its potential anticancer effects, particularly through the suppression of the mTOR pathway via LKB1-dependent AMPK activation, which inhibits cell proliferation. This review explores metformin’s role as an adjunct therapy in pancreatic cancer, summarizing evidence on its molecular mechanisms and potential efficacy. The findings suggest metformin’s broader therapeutic applications, especially in oncology, warrant further investigation. The aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the role of metformin as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, with particular focus on its molecular mechanisms, such as AMPK activation and mTOR pathway inhibition. The study aims to summarize the current scientific evidence regarding its potential effectiveness.

Since the end of apartheid in 1994, the Republic of South Africa has implemented multiple reforms to improve equity and quality within its healthcare system. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current state of these reforms, focusing on the implementation of National Health Insurance (NHI), the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the systemic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on a systematic review of 32 scientific papers published between 2017 and 2025, a qualitative analysis was conducted to identify recurring trends, structural barriers, and strategic recommendations. The findings reveal that healthcare reform is progressing unevenly, hindered by limited financing, weak intersectoral coordination, and persistent disparities between the public and private sectors. Furthermore, the rising prevalence of NCDs, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, poses a significant threat to system stability. While the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of existing organizational structures, it also served as a catalyst for digital health innovation and telemedicine. To achieve Universal Health Coverage, South Africa must transition toward an integrated, community-based model. Key priorities include strategic investment in the health workforce, improved public financial management, and effective public-private integration. Ultimately, the lessons learned from the pandemic and the NCD crisis should drive the development of a more resilient, equitable, and technologically advanced healthcare system.

Fungal infections constitute a significant challenge and continue to be a predominant cause of treatment failure in pediatric leukemia cases. Despite the implementation of antifungal prophylaxis, these infections contribute to approximately 20% of cases in children undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The aim of this study is to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with invasive fungal infections (IFIs). We also present a review of the epidemiology, risk factors, treatment, and a clinical presentation of IFI in patients with ALL. This case report details the clinical course of confirmed Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Aspergillus spp. infections during the consolidation phase of ALL treatment in a 5-year-old pediatric patient. This male patient did not experience any complications until Day 28 of protocol II. Then, the patient’s condition deteriorated. Blood culture detected the growth of C. albicans. Despite the implementation of targeted therapy, the boy’s condition did not show improvement. The appearance of respiratory symptoms necessitated a computed tomography (CT) of the chest, which revealed multiple nodular densities atypical for C. albicans etiology. In spite of ongoing antifungal treatment, the lesions depicted in the CT scans showed no regression. A lung biopsy ultimately identified Aspergillus species as the source of the infection. Overcoming fungal infections poses a considerable challenge; therefore, an accurate diagnosis and the prompt initiation of targeted therapy are crucial in managing these infections in patients with leukemia.

Introduction: Schizophrenia represents a leading cause of acute psychotic episodes and is frequently associated with profound social dysfunction and in severe cases, it may result in conditions posing an immediate threat to life. Management typically involves biological treatment modalities combined with psychotherapy; however, a subset of patients develops treatment resistance. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) remains a key intervention for overcoming pharmacoresistance, despite its limited availability in Poland. Material and method: The article present a clinical case report and a literature review based on the MEDLINE database. Results: The case study concerns a 20-year-old woman who developed a severe, prolonged psychotic state as a consequence of treatment refusal. Owing to the critical clinical condition, confirmed pharmacoresistance and progressive secondary malnutrition, ECT was initiated as a life-saving measure under the principle of medical necessity. A marked improvement in mental status was observed after the first session. Upon completion of the full ECT course, the patient was discharged home in logical contact, without psychotic symptoms, with a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. Conclusions: The case supports the conclusion that ECT is an effective method for overcoming pharmacoresistance in acute psychosis and may constitute one of the most efficacious therapeutic options. In certain situations, the benefits of ECT outweigh those of pharmacotherapy alone. This case is of particular clinical relevance as it illustrates a life-saving application of ECT. The literature review further confirms the efficacy and safety of this treatment modality. Nevertheless, access to ECT in Poland remains insufficient and excessive ancillary procedural requirements reduce its cost-effectiveness, contributing to the persistence of this limitation.