Background and Objectives: The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) belongs to the gamma herpesviruses family. Evidence from the literature suggests that EBV initiates immune responses and the production of antibodies. Chronic or recurrent EBV infections may be associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or inflammatory bowel diseases. This review aims to establish the role of EBV in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, PMC, Google Scholar, and SCOPUS. Relevant studies, including meta-analyses, case-control studies, literature reviews, cross-sectional studies, and longitudinal studies, were identified through titles and abstracts screening for a comprehensive analysis. Results: Our study revealed a strong association between EBV infection and several autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Epstein-Barr virus seropositivity was significantly higher in affected individuals. Elevated EBV-specific antibodies correlated with disease onset and severity. EBV DNA and latency proteins were detected in diseased tissues, alongside immune dysregulation and molecular mimicry mechanisms. Conclusions: Our findings highlight that EBV may be an important factor in autoimmune disease pathogenesis, contributing to immune activation and tissue damage. Further research is needed to explore EBV-targeted therapies and their potential in preventing or managing autoimmune diseases.

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system characterized by autoimmune-mediated damage to oligodendrocytes and subsequent myelin destruction. Clinical implications: Clinically, the disease presents with many symptoms, often evolving over time. The insidious onset of MS often manifests with non-specific symptoms (prodromal phase), which may precede a clinical diagnosis by several years. Among them, headache is a prominent early indicator, affecting a significant number of MS patients (50–60%). Results: Headache manifests as migraine or tension-type headache with a clear female predilection (female-male ratio 2-3:1). Additionally, some disease-modifying therapies in MS can also induce headache. For instance, teriflunomide, interferons, ponesimod, alemtuzumab and cladribine are associated with an increased incidence of headache. Conclusions: The present review analyzed the literature data on the relationship between headache and MS to provide clinicians with valuable insights for optimized patient management and the therapeutic decision-making process.

Mental disorders (MDs) are among the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Individuals with severe MDs have a shorter life expectancy, primarily due to cardiovascular diseases. Echocardiography facilitates the evaluation of alterations in cardiac morphology and function, resulting from various cardiac pathologies. The aim of this review was to explore the current evidence base behind the myocardial deformation observed in echocardiography in patients with MDs. We primarily focused on the data regarding speckle tracking echocardiography. PubMed, using medical subject headings, was searched to identify studies on this topic. The collected data demonstrated changes in myocardial function in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, stressor-related disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, sleep–wake disorders, substance-related and addictive disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and borderline personality disorder. The recurrent findings included impaired Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy. Global Longitudinal Strain was significantly altered in patients with anorexia nervosa, bipolar disorder, and substance-related disorders. All reported studies support the consideration of cardiology consultations and a multidisciplinary approach in the care of patients with MDs with suspected cardiac dysfunction. Further investigation is warranted to determine the significance and prognostic value of myocardial deformation and strain measurements among individuals with MDs, focusing on the value of early detection, especially in asymptomatic cases.

Background: Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic, immune‐mediated inflammatory disorder affecting the skin, mucous membranes, hair, and nails. Conventional therapies such as corticosteroids and systemic immunosuppressants often demonstrate limited efficacy and are associated with undesirable side effects. The underlying inflammatory process is largely dominated by Th1/IFN‐ɣ cytokines and the activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)‐STAT pathway, highlighting JAK inhibitors as a novel, targeted therapeutic approach for recalcitrant forms of LP. Aim: The aim of the study was to systematically analyze the current scientific evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of JAK inhibitors in the treatment of various LP variants. Material and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases from inception up to May 2026. Eighty‐four relevant studies were enrolled into the final analysis. The risk of bias and quality of evidence were assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tools. Results: The final analysis consisted predominantly of case reports, case series, and limited controlled trials. Both systemic agents (e.g., tofacitinib, upadacitinib, and baricitinib) and topical formulations (e.g., ruxolitinib) demonstrated rapid reductions in pruritus and pain, followed by clinical resolution of inflammatory lesions. High rates of complete and partial clinical responses were observed across diverse variants. Short‐term adverse effects were generally mild and manageable, although the overall certainty of the evidence was low. Conclusions: JAK inhibitors demonstrate a promising preliminary clinical response and acceptable short‐term safety for managing refractory LP variants. While these agents present a valuable alternative to conventional therapies, the current evidence relies heavily on observational data. Large, randomized controlled trials with long‐term follow‐up are needed to establish optimal dosing, confirm safety, and evaluate sustained efficacy in clinical practice.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition that may precede the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Of interest are factors that influence the induction of MCI. In this study, we assessed 92 patients with MCI (aged 60–74 years) and 118 controls for comorbidities and medication. In the MCI group, multimorbidity was observed significantly more often. MCI correlated with age, overweight, multimorbidity, the presence of allergic disease, depression, use of sleep medications and tramadol derivatives. The results indicate a higher possibility of MCI in the 60-year-old group, especially in those with multimorbidity and using certain types of drugs.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most prevalent chronic rheumatic disease in children, primarily affecting the joints but also influencing various organ systems, including the endocrine system. The interplay between JIA and endocrine dysfunctions remains an area of growing interest, as autoimmune and inflammatory mechanisms may contribute to the development of comorbid conditions. This review explores genetic markers associated with both JIA and endocrine disorders, the role of immune system dysregulation, and the impact of disease-modifying therapies on hormonal function. Additionally, the effects of chronic inflammation on endocrine homeostasis and metabolic regulation are discussed. Particular attention is given to conditions such as type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and Cushing’s syndrome, which may either precede JIA, arise as complications, or be exacerbated by its treatment. Effective JIA management requires an understanding of these mechanisms and a multidisciplinary approach.