Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) play critical roles in regulating processes associated with malignant behavior. These endopeptidases selectively degrade components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), growth factors, and their receptors, contributing to cancer cell invasiveness and migratory characteristics by disrupting the basal membrane. However, the expression profile and role of various matrix metalloproteinases remain unclear, and only a few studies have focused on differences between diagnoses of brain tumors. Using quantitative real-time PCR analysis, we identified the expression pattern of ECM modulators (n = 10) in biopsies from glioblastoma (GBM; n = 20), astrocytoma (AST; n = 9), and meningioma (MNG; n = 19) patients. We found eight deregulated genes in the glioblastoma group compared to the benign meningioma group, with only MMP9 (FC = 2.55; p = 0.09) and TIMP4 (7.28; p < 0.0001) upregulated in an aggressive form. The most substantial positive change in fold regulation for all tumors was detected in matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MNG = 30.9, AST = 4.28, and GBM = 4.12). Notably, we observed an influence of TIMP1, demonstrating a positive correlation with MMP8, MMP9, and MMP10 in tumor samples. Subsequently, we examined the protein levels of the investigated MMPs (n = 7) and TIMPs (n = 3) via immunodetection. We confirmed elevated levels of MMPs and TIMPs in GBM patients compared to meningiomas and astrocytomas. Even when correlating glioblastomas versus astrocytomas, we showed a significantly increased level of MMP1, MMP3, MMP13, and TIMP1. The identified metalloproteases may play a key role in the process of gliomagenesis and may represent potential targets for personalized therapy. However, as we have not confirmed the relationship between mRNA expression and protein levels in individual samples, it is therefore natural that the regulation of metalloproteases will be subject to several factors.

Introduction: Chronic calcified/ossified subdural hematoma is a rare diagnosis. The incidence of chronic calcified subdural hematoma is 0.3-2.7% of all chronic subdural hematomas. Surgical treatment is indicated in most cases, but there is sti...

In the pathophysiology of pediatric hydrocephalus, a significant role is played by the negative influence of cerebral circulation with the emergence of cerebral hypoperfusion. Transcranial Doppler sonography is a noninvasive method that can be used for indirect measurement of intracranial pressure and decrease of intracranial compliance by assessment of changes of cerebral circulation. The goal of this work was to assess the cerebral circulation and intracranial dynamics in pediatric hydrocephalus. The work is also focused on evaluation of impact of various intracranial factors on Doppler parameters of cerebral circulation, especially in neonates with hydrocephalus. The ambition of this work is to improve indication and timing of drainage procedure in children with hydrocephalus by application of the scientific results and clinical experience.

A primigravida 22-year-old woman, at a gestation of 23 weeks, experienced bleeding from a pial arteriovenous malformation (AVM) located in the right cerebellum. After interdisciplinary consensus and with the informed consent of the patient and her family, AVM embolization was performed. Complete occlusion of the AVM was achieved by embolization with PHIL (precipitating hydrophobic injectable liquid). The calculated dose in the uterus was less than 1 µSv, which represents a negligible risk of harmful effects on the fetus. She delivered a baby at 37 weeks of gestation by cesarean section without complications. No congenital disorders were diagnosed by standard screening methods until the age of the newborn was two years. The angiography protocol must be optimized to minimize the radiation dose. Adequate shielding protection of the uterus is important. Premature termination of pregnancy is not necessary. Multidisciplinary care of neurologists, neurosurgeons, interventional radiologists, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, and obstetricians is necessary.

Background: Hemophilia A is an X-linked recessive bleeding disorder associated with high risk for intracranial hemorrhage, requiring complicated neurosurgical interventions. Perioperative management is based on quick factor replacement therapy, control of hemostasis, and deciding whether surgery will be beneficial. Methods: We report the case of a 49-year-old male with severe hemophilia A who had purulent secernation via a skin fistula as a late complication of decompressive craniectomy for epidural hematoma at younger age. Results: Revision surgery was successfully managed with perioperative administration of clotting factor VIII, and the patient showed indications of titanium cranioplasty. Conclusions: A direct preoperative preparation prior to surgery in a postoperative period with controlled hemostasis has been shown to reduce hemorrhagic complications in hemophilic patients, increasing the quality of life and significant neurological complications.