European Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine T.22, z. 3 (2024)

URI dla tej Kolekcjihttps://repozytorium.ur.edu.pl/handle/item/10842

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A cross-sectional study on knowledge, attitude, and practice among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending a primary health care center in the rural region of Tamil Nadu
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Williams, Helen; Ranganathan, Srinivasan
Introduction and aim. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a basic metabolic disease of inadequate control of blood glucose levels. Hyperglycemia is exacerbated, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) progresses both insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. Management of T2DM involves both lifestyle modification and pharmacological therapy. To achieve optimized health outcomes, the patient requires adequate knowledge, attitude, and practice, so educating the patients on these diseases is an effective strategy to reduce complications of T2DM. Material and methods. This is a cross-sectional study which was conducted from August 2022 to January 2023. A total of 200 participants were enrolled with inclusion criteria to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Results. The mean knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) was 71.5%, 87.5%, and 40% respectively. There is a significant association between knowledge, attitude, practice questions, and socio-demographic characteristics. Education was strongly associated with having higher knowledge scores (p=0.001). Conclusion. The study’s conclusions made clear the necessity of well-planned interventions to raise T2DM awareness among patients with low levels of education. Patients with T2DM may benefit from well-designed educational programs that encourage healthy behavior and these interventions can improve the quality of life of patients in rural region of Tamil Nadu.
Acne vulgaris during pregnancy – management ensuring both maternal and fetal safety
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Kurzeja, Jacek; Maciejewska, Danuta; Bartczak, Magdalena; Guderska, Urszula; Urbanek, Agnieszka; Rasmus-Czternasta, Adrianna; Czternasty, Filip
Introduction and aim. Acne vulgaris represents a condition commonly encountered by women during pregnancy. However, its treatment becomes particularly demanding when occurring during gestation. The aim of this review is to present multiple strategies for management of acne in pregnant women, prioritizing both maternal and fetal safety. Material and methods. Review and analysis of the scientific literature available in November and December 2023. Analysis of literature. The study describes commonly used topical treatments and oral medications emphasizing difficulty and responsibility of assessing the safety of drug use during pregnancy. Apart from that, the importance of skin care is stressed with a focus on usage appropriate to the condition and pregnancy-safe cosmetics. The influence of diet and physical activity on acne development is also underlined, as well as the significant association between acne and mental health. Conclusion. Dealing with acne during pregnancy might be difficult; however, there are effective and safe acne treatments suitable for pregnant women, along with various supportive approaches. Considering above, the authors highlight a holistic nature of acne management that includes not just medication but also procedural interventions, skin care practices, diet, physical activity, and psychological support.
Acute myocarditis mimicking ST – elevation myocardial infarction in a young adult with pharyngitis – a case report
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Christou, Andreas; Kaperonis, Alexandros; Veskoukis, Nikolaos
Introduction and aim. Acute myocarditis (AM) is a life-threatening inflammatory disease that manifests with a highly variable range of clinical symptoms, sometimes mimicking those of myocardial infarction. The aim of this report was to describe the diagnostic challenges of AM. Description of the case. A 22-years old male previously diagnosed with pharyngitis arrived in the emergency room (ER) with retrosternal chest pain. The electrocardiogram (ECG) showed ST elevation in inferior and posterior leads and reciprocal changes with ST depression in anterolateral leads. Laboratory tests revealed elevated cardiac enzymes and bedside echocardiogram (ECHO) revealed hypokinesis of the inferior wall. Initial diagnosis of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) was made. Coronary angiogram showed normal epicardial coronary arteries and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) revealed subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Conclusion. This case was proven challenging due to the unusual ECG and ECHO findings, mimicking inferoposterior STEMI. The need for available angiography and CMRI was mandatory for the final diagnosis of AM.
Alcohol and nicotine use among Polish undergraduate students – the preliminary results
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Kawalec, Agata
Introduction and aim. “DiSCO” (Dietary Supplements Consumption of Undergraduate Students) study aimed to characterize the chosen elements of lifestyle among university students, including alcohol consumption and nicotine use. Material and methods. The cross-sectional study was realized in cooperation with Italian Universities. The anonymous online survey was conducted from 01.02.2022 to 30.06.2023 among 294 Polish students (age range: 19-37): 202 women (mean age: 21.77; median: 21; SD: 2.46) and 92 men (mean age: 22.73; median: 22; SD: 2.89). The statistical analysis was performed with the use of Excel (Fisher’s exact test; Chi2 test; a significance level p<0.05) Results. 89.8% of students consumed alcohol in the last six months. 36.7% of students used tobacco products in the last year. The analysis of the frequency and type of nicotine products used and the frequency and circumstances of alcohol consumption by students did not reveal any significant differences among the sexes and age groups (p>0.05). Most of the students declared to occasionally use nicotine products (up to 3 times a week), most often traditional cigarettes or shredded tobacco. Most students consume alcohol 2–4 times a month, most often regardless of the meals. Conclusion. Alcohol consumption and nicotine use among Polish students are similar in both sexes.
Assessment of nutritional status in relation to socio-economic status during the COVID-19 pandemic in early childhood in Morocco
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Benayad, Fatima Zohra; Razine, Rachid; Barich, Fatima; Laamiri, Fatima Zahra; Haroun, Abbas Ermilo; El Hilali, Samia; Obtel, Majdouline
Introduction and aim. The objective of this study is to evaluate the nutritional status of children aged 0-24 months, and analyze its association with socioeconomic status during the COVID-19 pandemic in Morocco. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out in the outpatient health network between 2021 and 2022, by taking anthropometric measurements of children in accordance with World Health Organization standards and using a questionnaire sent to consenting mothers. Results. 1012 children were included in this study. The prevalence of overweight was 13.3%, obesity 3.2%, wasting and severe wasting 2.7%. The study revealed that boys had a higher prevalence of overweight compared to girls (p=0.01), while girls were more likely to have a normal weight than boys (p=0.001). Furthermore, a statistically significant association was observed between nutritional status and age in boys (p=0.003); however, malnutrition such as overweight and wasting increased after the age of 12 months in both genders. There was a significant correlation between child nutritional status, gender, and residence, but no significant association was found with parental education or household income. Conclusion. This study suggests that it is important to develop strategies to improve socio-economic status in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Atypical presentation of extra-skeletal Ewing’s sarcoma in a 57-year-old female – a case report
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Nagalakshmi, Kumbha; Ramachandran, Nair Parvati; Narla, Swetha Lakshmi; Subramanyan, Annapurneswari; Parasuraman, Brundha Marimuthu
Introduction and aim. Malignant soft tissue tumors exhibiting similar histological and immunohistochemical characteristics to Ewing sarcoma of the bones are referred to as extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma within the pathology research domain. These tumors fall under the broader classification of Ewing sarcoma family of tumors, which encompasses Ewing sarcoma of the bones, extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma, and primitive neuroectodermal tumor, the latter demonstrating a more pronounced neural differentiation compared to Ewing sarcoma of the bone. Extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma stands out as a rare, aggressive, and rapidly growing malignant soft tissue tumor characterized by a notable recurrence rate and a predilection for occurrence in males. The roots of recognizing extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma trace back to 1975 when Angervall and Enzinger reported the inaugural case. This study aims to underscore the significance of recognizing diverse clinical presentations for precise diagnosis and effective patient care of Extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma in an elderly patient. Case description. In the context of our pathology research, a noteworthy case involves a 57-year-old female presenting with a mass in the left iliac fossa. The diagnosis, established through a comprehensive approach involving Imaging, histopathological examination, immunohistochemistry, and molecular studies such as fluorescence in situ hybridization, confirms the nature of the tumor as extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma. This case adds to the understanding and documentation of this distinct variant through a multi-modal investigative process. Conclusion. This case report contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on an atypical presentation of extra-skeletal Ewing sarcoma in an older patient. Understanding the varied clinical manifestations and incorporating advanced diagnostic techniques, such as fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, is pivotal for accurate diagnosis and optimal patient management.
Benign endotracheal tumor (hamartoma) mimicking bronchial asthma
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Kaziród, Tomasz; Tokarski, Sławomir; Kaznowska, Ewa; Rzeszutko-Grabowska, Magdalena
Introduction and aim. The most common benign tumor of the lung is hamartoma. In many cases, it is a spherical tumor, located peripherally, often without clinical symptoms. Predominantly it is found accidentally during radiological examination. In some cases the tumor reaches a significant size in the lung parenchyma or in the lumen of the bronchi or trachea. Then, symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, wheezing, less commonly hemoptysis, and chest pain may occur. In addition, tumors located endobronchial or endotracheal may cause recurrent pneumonia or mimic obstructive diseases of the lower respiratory tract such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or bronchial asthma. We present the case of a patient with an endotracheal tumor mimicking bronchial asthma. Description of the case. A 53-year-old male was taking bronchodilators and inhaled steroids for several months. The baseline chest radiograph showed no abnormalities. Spirometry suggested an obstruction of respiratory flow in the central or upper airways. The lack of improvement after asthma treatment required an extension of the diagnosis. Computed tomography allowed accurate visualization of the tumor lesion of the trachea, which was significantly obstructing its lumen, and resection was carried out. Conclusion. Our case demonstrates that tracheal tumors can present symptoms similar to respiratory tract diseases. In unresolved cases, spirometry and computed tomography are helpful in proper diagnosis.
Caries experience in Indian children with cleft lip and palate – an observational study from a tertiary care centre
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Mukhopadhyay, Santanu; Mukhopadhyay, Prasun
Introduction and aim. This study aims to assess caries experience in children with cleft lip and palate (CLP). Material and methods. A total of 127 children (aged 3-12 years) with CLP and 141 non-cleft controls were assessed for dental caries using the decayed-extracted/missing-filled teeth (deft/DMFT) index. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with dental caries. Statistical tests, including t-test, ANOVA, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact test, were used to analyze differences between cleft and non-cleft populations. Results. In primary teeth, caries prevalence was significantly higher in children with CLP (63.8%) compared to non-cleft controls (40.4%, p<0.001). The deft scores were 3.30 for CLP and 1.63 for non-CLP group (p<0.01). No significant difference was observed in mean DMFT scores (p=0.02). Significant variations in caries prevalence (p=0.01) and mean DMFT values (p=0.001) were noted in permanent dentition among different cleft groups. Conclusion. Children with CLP show higher caries prevalence and experience, emphasizing the need for targeted dental care interventions in this population. Logistic regression analysis highlights an age-related increase in caries experience among individuals with CLP.
Clinical significance of serum interleukin-6 levels in patients with chronic kidney disease
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Chokkavarapu, Renuka Charan; Bachireddy, Parimala; Billa, Vaibhavi Reddy; Vityala, Yethindra
Introduction and aim. Elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum and kidney tissues are associated with the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, in the development of cardiovascular complications is well studied, the relationship between serum IL-6 levels and CKD markers remains unclear. This study investigated the clinical significance of serum IL-6 levels in patients with CKD. Material and methods. Participants were divided into two groups based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): group 1 (n=86) with eGFR >60 mL/min and group 2 (n=74) with eGFR <60 mL/min. The CKD Epidemiology Collaboration equation was used to calculate eGFR from serum creatinine and cystatin C levels to assess CKD severity. Results. Systolic blood pressure was higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 (138±22 mmHg vs. 129±19 mmHg; p<0.05). Serum IL-6 levels were also higher in group 2 (3.095 [interquartile range: 1.528–6.547] pg/mL) than in group 1 (1.711 [interquartile range: 0.920– 3.342] pg/mL; p <0.05). Serum IL-6 levels were strongly correlated with eGFR in multivariable-adjusted linear regression analysis. Conclusion. IL-6 levels increased in patients with CKD with an eGFR <60 mL/min, and this increase was associated with eGFR and diastolic blood pressure.
Evaluation of micronuclei in oral squamous cell carcinoma and potentially malignant disorders via different staining techniques
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Khan, Mohammad Imran; Khare, Abhisheik; Khan, Sameera Shamim; Arif, Khushboo; Nasir, Abdullah; Lari, Shafik
Introduction and aim. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and premalignant disorders (PMDs) are becoming common in India as the use of tobacco in different forms is increasing from a young age, and the prevalence of this disease is becoming more common in middle age. Identifying disease at earlier stages is an important measure for limiting disease incidence and improving patient prognosis. The micronuclei count can be a valid biomarker for screening suspected patients and can be helpful in educating patients about the discontinuation of treatment, diagnosing the disease in its early stages and planning a treatment for a better prognosis. Different stains that are nuclear specific can be used to identify micronuclei. The aim was to establish diagnostic efficacy of various staining techniques in OSCC and potentially malignant disorders on oral brush cytology smears with observation of micronuclei as a valid biomarker for evaluation of the disease. Material and methods. Exfoliative cytology was done with oral brush and smears are obtained from 25 oral squamous cell carcinoma, 25 leukoplakia, 25 lichen planus, 25 oral sub mucous fibrosis patients and 15 samples with no disease. Each smear was stained with five different stains Papanicolaou (PAP), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), toluidine blue, Leishman and Giemsa (LG) cocktail and Feulgen and observed for staining efficacy of micronuclei and cellular structures. Results. The best stain to observe DNA content as micronuclei is Feulgen which gives clear and crisp details of micronuclei without giving any false count as it is nuclear specific stain. PAP can be the second choice stain. Micronuclei count is definitely increased in OSCC and PMDs compared to samples without disease confirming its use as biomarker. Conclusion. Micronuclei count in oral brush cytology smears is a valid biomarker for evaluation of premalignant disorders and OSCC and can be used for detection of disease in individuals and for screening purposes of large populations at risk. Feulgen stain is best to study DNA content as micronuclei, on the other hand PAP can be used in large sampling investigations where there is lack of armamentarium.
Improving diabetes mellitus care in Nigeria – health promotion and education perspectives
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Agofure, Otovwe; Abiodun, Oluwafunmilayo Oluwaseun; Oyewole, Oyediran Emmanuel
Introduction and aim. In this review, we suggest ways to improve diabetes mellitus (DM) care in Nigeria from a Health Promotion and Education (HPE) perspective by addressing the gap in DM care through the adoption of strategies from the Ottawa Charter and National Health Promotion Policy (NHPP) guidelines. Material and methods. This review conducted a comprehensive literature search on Africa Journal Online, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, from 1986 to 2023, using relevant keywords. Analysis of the literature. The adoption of the Ottawa charter and NHPP remains a key strategy in addressing the gap in DM care in Nigeria. This could be achieved by the adoption of population-focused multi-sectoral interventions encompassing legislation, regulation, and fiscal measures, creating sustaining and expanding health-promoting environments to reduce modifiable risk factors, and reorienting the primary health care services to aid the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of DM patients. Conclusion. This review concluded that the government and other critical stakeholders should adopt the HPE strategies that covers increased financing, strict legislation on DM modifiable risk factors, reorientation of the primary healthcare system, and capacity building for HPE practitioners into DM care in Nigeria as a strategy to improving DM care and prevention in Nigeria.
Incidental vs. non-incidental gallbladder cancer – a hospital-based clinicopathological study
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Dash, Sashibhusan; Anirvan, Prajna; Samantaray, Sagarika; Rout, Niranjan; Ranjit, Manoranjan
Introduction and aim. Most gallbladder cancers (GBCs) are discovered incidentally after routine cholecystectomy. The clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic implications of incidental gallbladder cancer (IGBC) versus non-incidental gallbladder cancer (NIGBC) is not known. Material and methods. During this study, clinicopathological details compared between incidental and non-incidental GBC groups included age, sex, clinical presentation, preoperative radiological diagnosis, surgical management, and macroscopic and microscopic features. The primary outcome of the study was difference in overall survival (OS) between IGBC and NIGBC. Results. Among 348 surgically treated patients, 56.6% weren’t preoperatively suspected of GBC. Macroscopic examination showed characteristic thickened gallbladder wall without mass lesion (IGBC) vs. clear mass lesion (NIGBC) on imaging. Interestingly, NIGBC had higher LVI (27% vs. 14%) and T stage (68% T2b/T3 vs. 47% T1b/T2a) despite lower margin involvement (p < 0.001). The OS for all patients was 12.2 months (median). Among patients who underwent surgery with curative intent, the median survival time was 21.4 months. However, within this group, NIGBC cases had a worse median survival (17 months) compared to IGBC cases (21 months). Conclusion. Rising incidental GBC necessitates routine microscopic examination of all gallbladder specimens. Surgeons in high-risk areas should remain vigilant for GBC in patients with atypical clinical and ultrasound findings. Early detection and curative resection are paramount for long-term survival in gallbladder carcinoma, with IGBC potentially offering a survival benefit regardless of stage or tumor characteristics. Prospective studies including detailed pathology and molecular analysis are needed to confirm this observation.
Knowledge, risk perception and utilization of hepatitis B vaccine among youths in a semi-urban area in Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Oyasope, Beatrice Tomisin; Atibioke, Oluyemi Peter; Dipeolu, Isaac Oluwafemi
Introduction and aim. Hepatitis B is a chronic liver disease responsible for high morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of hepatitis B vaccine, the incidence of disease is increasing. This study was designed to investigate the knowledge, risk perception, and utilization of hepatitis B vaccine among youths in the Ido Local Government Area, Oyo state, Nigeria. Material and methods. A cross-sectional survey design was adapted, and 422 consenting youths were recruited. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. A 19-point knowledge scale was used; scores ≤6, >6–12, and >12– 19 were considered poor, fair and good knowledge, respectively. Risk perception was measured on a 14-point scale, with scores ≤7 and >7 as poor and good, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Fisher’s exact at α0.05. Results. Respondents were 26.6±3.5 years, and 56.2% were females. Only 13.7% had good knowledge of hepatitis B, and 53.2% had a good perception of hepatitis B infection. Moreover, 48.9% had received at least one dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine. A significant association existed between knowledge, risk perception and utilization of hepatitis B vaccine. Conclusion. Knowledge and utilization of hepatitis B vaccine were low among the respondents. Health education programs in the study area are crucial to improving hepatitis B vaccine utilization among youth.
Lung abscess with pneumonia after SARS-CoV-2 infection – a case report
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Borys, Renata; Szeliga, Ewa; Wojtuń, Kazimierz; Kużdżał, Adrian; Sawka, Karolina
Introduction and aim. Some patients after the SARS-CoV-2 infection may be at higher risk of consequent bacterial or fungal infections even if they have no risk factors (advanced age, obesity, metabolic diseases). A possible complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection is lung abscess with pneumonia what requires further examination and specialized treatment as well as the pulmonary rehabilitation. Description of the case. This report presents all stages of the diagnosis and treatment of lung abscess with pneumonia of male patient, aged 42 years in course of COVID-19. The article emphasizes the role of pulmonary rehabilitation in decreasing the number of postoperative pulmonary complications. Presented case report includes a description of a rehabilitation program conducted during the patient’s hospitalization. Conclusion. Lung abscess is a serious disease with an often unpredictable course, complications and an uncertain prognosis. However, most patients can be treated conservatively, and the priority in treatment is antibiotic therapy and physiotherapy treatments.
Minimally invasive percutaneous technique for harvesting iliac crest graft using a tap and drill sleeve
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Kumar, Rakesh; Mahajan, Avijit; Sangwan, Nitesh; Sood, Ayush; Ranjan, Rajni; Batra, Ankit
Introduction and aim. Orthopedic surgeries often require acquiring cancellous bone grafts, commonly sourced from the iliac crest. Traditional harvesting methods pose risks of donor site morbidity, prompting interest in minimally invasive techniques. This study introduces and evaluates the efficacy and safety of a percutaneous technique using a tap and drill sleeve for iliac crest bone graft harvesting. This study aims to assess outcomes and complications associated with a minimally invasive percutaneous technique for iliac crest bone graft harvesting through a retrospective analysis of twenty patients undergoing upper limb reconstructive surgery. Material and methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted on twenty patients who underwent upper limb reconstructive surgery between January and March 2023. The technique involved making a bone deep stab incision, precisely positioning a drill and tap sleeve, utilizing controlled tapping techniques, and extracting the graft. Post-operative assessments included evaluating pain levels, ambulation, and patient satisfaction. Results. The minimally invasive percutaneous technique demonstrated favorable outcomes, with reduced donor site morbidity observed. Within 24 hours post-operatively, 70% of patients reported low visual analogue scale scores, and 80% regained normal walking ability. No instances of post-operative paresthesia were reported. Conclusion. The examined minimally invasive percutaneous technique for iliac crest bone graft harvesting showed reliability and safety, particularly in low resource settings. Utilizing basic orthopedic tools such as tap and drill sleeves offers accessibility and affordability. This approach could effectively mitigate donor site morbidity in orthopedic reconstructive treatments.
Patterns of physical activity amidst COVID-19 among medical interns
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Debata, Ipsita; Mohapatra, Ipsa; Sarkar, Avinandan; Sarkar, Bidisa; Sahu, Ritu; Padhee, Sourav
Introduction and aim. The COVID-19 pandemic restricted our daily lives significantly. This adversely affected the physical activity (PA) and productivity of students, including medical interns, who worked tirelessly during the pandemic. The study aimed to evaluate the changes in PA patterns and associated factors due to the imposed lockdown in medical interns compared to pre-pandemic levels. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among consenting medical interns of the 2020-21 batch in a medical college in Bhubaneswar, selected by convenience sampling. They were contacted by email and briefed about the study. Data on demography, exercise patterns (pre-, during, and post-COVID-19), and associated factors was collected by an electronic survey format (Google form). Data was analyzed using EPI info and interpreted in frequencies, percentages, and the chi-square test. A p-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Of 104, 54.28% were females. The frequency of exercise reduced by 13.92% during COVID-19. Around 56.9% of interns exercised regularly pre-pandemic which dropped to 33.3% during the pandemic. The change in PA pattern was significantly associated with regularity of exercise (p<0.001). Conclusion. Evaluating the extent of physical inactivity will enable the administration to provide appropriate support to the interns to take equal care of their health as their patients.
Pectus excavatum treatment with the Nuss procedure: comparative results in pediatric and adult patients – experiences of a single physician
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Dubus, Turkan
Introduction and aim. Pectus excavatum (PE) is a chest wall deformity characterized by a collapse of the rib cage. The Nuss procedure, originally intended for pediatric patients, is now also used in adults. The main aim of this study is to investigate whether the Nuss procedure can also lead to successful results in adult patients, although it is a widely used treatment method in pediatric patients. Material and methods. Data from 90 patients (October 2008-May 2020) included age, gender, preoperative findings, Haller index, operative details, and postoperative outcomes. The groups were divided into pediatric (<18 years) and adult (≥18 years) patients. Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests were used to assess group differences. Results. The adult group had a significantly higher bar length and preoperative complaints rate (p>0.05). Conclusion. The Nuss procedure is safe and effective in both pediatric and adult PE patients. Age and preoperative symptoms influence surgical planning and outcomes, emphasizing their importance for treatment strategies.
Phototherapy in the management of vitiligo – an updated narrative review
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Wełniak, Adam; Białczyk, Aleksandra; Kamińska, Barbara; Czajkowski, Rafał
Introduction and aim. Vitiligo is a chronic skin disease characterized by progressive loss of melanocytes. Various treatment options have been developed to manage vitiligo, however, phototherapy has emerged as one of the most effective treatment options. Therefore, this review has been written to examine the mechanisms of this particular treatment approach and its optimal implementation. Material and methods. A review of the literature regarding combination of word vitiligo with the following: psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA), narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) and excimer laser (EL) was performed using the PubMed database. Analysis of the literature. NB-UVB has demonstrated safety and efficacy in stimulating melanocyte proliferation and melanin synthesis, making it an attractive treatment option for both localized and generalized vitiligo. PUVA therapy, combining psoralen photosensitization with UVA irradiation, has shown remarkable efficacy in repigmentation, particularly in refractory or extensive vitiligo. However, because of possible side effects, it is not recommended as a first line phototherapy. With its targeted and precise approach, EL offers a localized treatment and has produced impressive results in localized and segmented vitiligo. Conclusion. Despite limitations, phototherapy continues to evolve, offering hope for individuals with vitiligo. Further research and advancements in treatment protocols are needed.
Prevalence and predictors of job stress among healthcare workers in secondary health centers in a Nigerian City
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Oni, Daramola F.; Azeez, Ismaheel A.; Olaniyan, Fatai A.; Ilori, Titilayo H.
Introduction and aim. Stress is prevalent in all aspects of our lives and it seems particularly overwhelming in the workplace. This study identified prevalence and factors associated with job stress among healthcare workers in public secondary health facilities in the Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria. Material and methods. The study was a cross-sectional study. Two hundred and sixty-nine healthcare workers were recruited over three months. The respondents were recruited using the systematic sampling techniques. Results. The age range of the participants was 20–59 years with a mean age of 39.28(SD 9.39).The prevalence of job stress among physicians was 42.1%, health management staff 31.3%, pharmacists 28.6%, nurses 23.5%, and laboratory personnel 23.1%. Most participants 162(61.1%) had functional families. Participants from polygamous families were about 70% less likely to report job stress compared with those from monogamous setting (OR=0.3, 95%CI 0.07–0.9). Participants from dysfunctional families were about 2 times more likely to report job stress compared to those with functional families. OR=2.0, 95%CI (1.09–3.56). Conclusion. Compared with nurses, this study demonstrated a higher prevalence of job stress among physicians and other healthcare workers. Family type and family support were predictors of job stress among healthcare workers. The outcome of this study would be used as a source of information for practice and policy making for health facilities in Nigeria, and some places in Africa, with the aim of planning improved conditions for health workers through appropriate job stress management.
Selected treatment methods for colloid milium – a literature review
(Publishing Office of the University of Rzeszow, 2024-09) Ciulkiewicz, Łukasz; Pełka, Maciej; Fijałkowska, Justyna; Kania, Anna
Introduction and aim. Colloid milium is a rare degenerative skin condition of unknown origin. Typically, it affects sun-exposed areas of the skin. Nevertheless, non-sun-exposed areas may also be affected. Clinically it presents with yellow or red papules, filled with gelatinous masses. There are four subtypes of colloid milium, each with its distinct characteristics: adult, juvenile, nodular, and pigmented. Although diagnosis is primarily clinical, skin biopsy and various staining techniques are required to exclude similar diseases. There is no single effective treatment for colloid milium. Most methods involve the use of lasers, dermabrasion, and oral medications. Yet, the final results differ. Since this topic has not been addressed very frequently in recent literature, the purpose of this review is to present the currently available treatment methods for colloid milium. Material and methods. A literature review was performed to identify the most efficient treatment approaches for colloid milium, focusing on their effectiveness in eliminating nodules and preventing recurrence. Analysis of the literature. Due to its rarity and consequent lack of extensive scientific research, the number of available therapy options for colloid milium is limited. Commonly used treatment methods include lasers, oral medications, dermabrasion, and photodynamic therapy. Microablative fractionated CO2 laser treatment resulted in complete ablation of the lesions with no recurrence. Non-ablative fractional resurfacing after multiple therapies led to the total elimination of the lesions, with no signs of reappearance during follow-up. Dermabrasion required a lengthy healing process. During follow-up no new papules were detected. After multiple sessions of treatment with MAL-PDT, the skin was devoid of nodules and recurrence was prevented. Following full recovery, treatment with the long-pulsed ER:YAG laser revealed the skin without any textural changes, scars, or pigmentation. During follow-up, no new papules were reported. Oral medication provided insignificant results. The majority of patients undergoing these procedures did not need preparation or analgesia. However, non-ablative fractional resurfacing required topical analgesia with 30% lidocaine gel, long pulsed Er:YAG laser treatment demanded intravenous sedation, and dermabrasion involved axillary block analgesia. None of the procedures provoked adverse effects. Conclusion. Skin lesions caused by colloid milium may provoke esthetic concerns, prompting patients to remove them. However, available treatments methods are limited and yield varying outcomes. Among the prominent procedures are microablative fractionated CO2 laser, non-ablative fractional resurfacing, long pulsed ER:YAG laser, and treatment with MAL-PDT, which led to complete ablation, required minimal convalescence time, and provided long-lasting remission. Dermabrasion displayed partial results, with no observed relapse of colloid milium during follow-up. Oral treatment presented the least significant results. Further research is necessary in order to develop new treatment methods for colloid milium that are safe, effective, and affordable.

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Przeglądanie European Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine T.22, z. 3 (2024) według Tytuł