scholarly journals Pretibial myxedema: pathogenetic features and clinical aspects

2019 ◽  
Vol 65 (2) ◽  
pp. 134-138
Author(s):  
Ekaterina A. Sabanova ◽  
Valentin V. Fadeyev ◽  
Nikolai N. Potekaev ◽  
Andrey N. Lvov
Keyword(s):  
Lymphatic Drainage ◽  
Scientific Data ◽  
Clinical Aspects ◽  
Skin Changes ◽  
Anterior Tibial ◽  
Diagnostic Biopsy ◽  
Pretibial Myxedema ◽  
Preventive Examination ◽  
Thyroid Dermopathy

Pretibial myxedema (PTM) or thyroid dermopathy is a rare extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves disease. The condition is accompanied by mucinous skin changes, mainly in the anterior tibial surface. Severe forms may lead to lymphatic congestion and disability. Prolonged and intense autoimmune aggression is supposed to be necessary for PTM manifestation. However, data on the role of TSHR antibodies in the development of thyroid dermopathy are very ambiguous; evidence of IGF-1 receptor involvement in the pathogenesis was reported recently. Typically, PTM is localized on the anterior and lateral surfaces of both tibias and can be represented by diffuse, tumorous, plaque-like, or elephantiasic forms. Currently, early diagnostics involves regular preventive examination of the pretibial area. A diagnostic biopsy is indicated only in complex cases. Maintaining euthyroidism, smoking cessation, preventing injuries, and avoiding tight shoes that disturb lymphatic drainage are measures reducing the risk of PTM in GD patients. Currently, there are no accepted clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid dermopathy. This review provides the recent scientific data on etiopathogenesis and management of patients with PTM.

The Effect of PDE5 Inhibitors on the Male Reproductive Tract

2020 ◽  
Vol 26 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nikolaos Sofikitis ◽  
Aris Kaltsas ◽  
Fotios Dimitriadis ◽  
Jens Rassweiler ◽  
Nikolaos Grivas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Male Infertility ◽  
Reproductive Tract ◽  
Tunica Albuginea ◽  
Scientific Data ◽  
Secretory Function ◽  
Pde5 Inhibitors ◽  
Male Reproductive Tract ◽  
Review Study ◽  
Phosphodiesterase 5

The therapeutic range of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5) inhibitors is getting wider in the last years. This review study focuses on the potential employment of PDE5 inhibitors as an adjunct tool for the therapeutic management of male infertility. The literature tends to suggest a beneficial effect of PDE5 inhibitors on Leydig and Sertoli cells secretory function. It also appears that PDE5 inhibitors play a role in the regulation of the contractility of the testicular tunica albuginea and the epididymis. Moreover scientific data suggest that PDE5 inhibitors enhance the prostatic secretory function leading to an improvement in sperm motility. Other studies additionally demonstrate a role of PDE5 inhibitors in the regulation of sperm capacitation process. Placebo-controlled, randomized, blind studies are necessary to unambiguously incorporate PDE5 inhibitors as an adjunct tool for the pharmaceutical treatment of semen disorders and male infertility.

scholarly journals The Association of Human Herpesviruses with Malignant Brain Tumor Pathology and Therapy: Two Sides of a Coin

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (5) ◽  
pp. 2250
Author(s):  
Evita Athanasiou ◽  
Antonios N. Gargalionis ◽  
Fotini Boufidou ◽  
Athanassios Tsakris
Keyword(s):  
Brain Tumor ◽  
Brain Tumors ◽  
Comprehensive Evaluation ◽  
Tumor Development ◽  
Scientific Data ◽  
Malignant Brain Tumor ◽  
Direct Role ◽  
Tumor Pathology ◽  
Human Herpesviruses

The role of certain viruses in malignant brain tumor development remains controversial. Experimental data demonstrate that human herpesviruses (HHVs), particularly cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6), are implicated in brain tumor pathology, although their direct role has not yet been proven. CMV is present in most gliomas and medulloblastomas and is known to facilitate oncomodulation and/or immunomodulation, thus promoting cancer cell proliferation, invasion, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression. EBV and HHV-6 have also been detected in brain tumors and high-grade gliomas, showing high rates of expression and an inflammatory potential. On the other hand, due to the neurotropic nature of HHVs, novel studies have highlighted the engagement of such viruses in the development of new immunotherapeutic approaches in the context of oncolytic viral treatment and vaccine-based strategies against brain tumors. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of recent scientific data concerning the emerging dual role of HHVs in malignant brain pathology, either as potential causative agents or as immunotherapeutic tools in the fight against these devastating diseases.

scholarly journals Caspase-14—From Biomolecular Basics to Clinical Approach. A Review of Available Data

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (11) ◽  
pp. 5575
Author(s):  
Agnieszka Markiewicz ◽  
Dawid Sigorski ◽  
Mateusz Markiewicz ◽  
Agnieszka Owczarczyk-Saczonek ◽  
Waldemar Placek
Keyword(s):  
Cell Death ◽  
Physiological Role ◽  
Skin Barrier ◽  
Clinical Aspects ◽  
Clinical Approach ◽  
Search Term ◽  
Caspase Family ◽  
Skin Conditions ◽  
Theoretical Science

Caspase-14 is a unique member of the caspase family—a family of molecules participating in apoptosis. However, it does not affect this process but regulates another form of programmed cell death—cornification, which is characteristic of the epidermis. Therefore, it plays a crucial role in the formation of the skin barrier. The cell death cycle has been a subject of interest for researchers for decades, so a lot of research has been done to expand the understanding of caspase-14, its role in cell homeostasis and processes affecting its expression and activation. Conversely, it is also an interesting target for clinical researchers searching for its role in the physiology of healthy individuals and its pathophysiology in particular diseases. A summary was done in 2008 by Denecker et al., concentrating mostly on the biotechnological aspects of the molecule and its physiological role. However, a lot of new data have been reported, and some more practical and clinical research has been conducted since then. The majority of studies tackled the issue of clinical data presenting the role of caspase in the etiopathology of many diseases such as retinal dysfunctions, multiple malignancies, and skin conditions. This review summarizes the available knowledge on the molecular and, more interestingly, the clinical aspects of caspase-14. It also presents how theoretical science may pave the way for medical research. Methods: The authors analyzed publications available on PubMed until 21 March 2021, using the search term “caspase 14”.

scholarly journals Efficient aortic lymphatic drainage is necessary for atherosclerosis regression induced by ezetimibe

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (50) ◽  
pp. eabc2697
Author(s):  
Kim Pin Yeo ◽  
Hwee Ying Lim ◽  
Chung Hwee Thiam ◽  
Syaza Hazwany Azhar ◽  
Caris Tan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lymphatic Vessels ◽  
Lymphatic Drainage ◽  
Lymphatic Transport ◽  
Atherosclerotic Plaques ◽  
Tissue Fluid ◽  
Atherosclerosis Progression ◽  
Lymphatic Vasculature ◽  
Lesion Regression ◽  
Transport Of Macromolecules

A functional lymphatic vasculature is essential for tissue fluid homeostasis, immunity, and lipid clearance. Although atherosclerosis has been linked to adventitial lymphangiogenesis, the functionality of aortic lymphatic vessels draining the diseased aorta has never been assessed and the role of lymphatic drainage in atherogenesis is not well understood. We develop a method to measure aortic lymphatic transport of macromolecules and show that it is impaired during atherosclerosis progression, whereas it is ameliorated during lesion regression induced by ezetimibe. Disruption of aortic lymph flow by lymphatic ligation promotes adventitial inflammation and development of atherosclerotic plaque in hypercholesterolemic mice and inhibits ezetimibe-induced atherosclerosis regression. Thus, progression of atherosclerotic plaques may result not only from increased entry of atherogenic factors into the arterial wall but also from reduced lymphatic clearance of these factors as a result of aortic lymph stasis. Our findings suggest that promoting lymphatic drainage might be effective for treating atherosclerosis.

scholarly journals How effective is dog culling in controlling zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis? a critical evaluation of the science, politics and ethics behind this public health policy

2011 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
pp. 232-242 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carlos Henrique Nery Costa
Keyword(s):  
Visceral Leishmaniasis ◽  
Control Measure ◽  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Critical Evaluation ◽  
Scientific Data ◽  
Ethical Considerations ◽  
Brazilian Government ◽  
Kala Azar ◽  
Scientific Results

INTRODUCTION: Zoonotic kala-azar, a lethal disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania is considered out of control in parts of the world, particularly in Brazil, where transmission has spread to cities throughout most of the territory and mortality presents an increasing trend. Although a highly debatable measure, the Brazilian government regularly culls seropositive dogs to control the disease. Since control is failing, critical analysis concerning the actions focused on the canine reservoir was conducted. METHODS: In a review of the literature, a historical perspective focusing mainly on comparisons between the successful Chinese and Soviet strategies and the Brazilian approach is presented. In addition, analyses of the principal studies regarding the role of dogs as risk factors to humans and of the main intervention studies regarding the efficacy of the dog killing strategy were undertaken. Brazilian political reaction to a recently published systematic review that concluded that the dog culling program lacked efficiency and its effect on public policy were also reviewed. RESULTS: No firm evidence of the risk conferred by the presence of dogs to humans was verified; on the contrary, a lack of scientific support for the policy of killing dogs was confirmed. A bias for distorting scientific data towards maintaining the policy of culling animals was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Since there is no evidence that dog culling diminishes visceral leishmaniasis transmission, it should be abandoned as a control measure. Ethical considerations have been raised regarding distorting scientific results and the killing of animals despite minimal or absent scientific evidence

Diabetic neuropathy: Epidemiological, pathogenetic, and clinical aspects with special emphasis on type 2 diabetes mellitus

1983 ◽  
Vol 104 (4_Suppl) ◽  
pp. S89-S94
Author(s):  
E. Matikainen ◽  
J. Juntunen
Keyword(s):  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Type 2 Diabetes ◽  
Peripheral Neuropathy ◽  
Diabetic Control ◽  
Clinical Aspects ◽  
Type 2 Diabetics ◽  
Insulin Dependent

ABSTRACT. Peripheral neuropathy is a frequent complication of diabetes mellitus. Alterations of the peripheral nervous system in diabetics have been studied in numerous investigations. There are many factors known to participate in the development of this complication, e.g. the age of the patient, duration of the diabetes, quality of the diabetic control etc. The role of different types of diabetes in development of neuropathy is still largely unclear since investigations on this aspect are few. It seems, however, that peripheral neuropathy in type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes is common but often mild. The differential diagnosis of the peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetics is more difficult than in type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetics, since these patients tend to be older and also may have other concomitant disorders. In this paper the clinical features and pathogenetic mechanisms of neuropathy in type 2 diabetes are briefly discussed.

scholarly journals Barriers in Implementing the Dying Patient Law: The Israeli Experience - A Qualitative Study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Avi Zigdon ◽  
Rachel Nissanholtz-Gannot
Keyword(s):  
End Of Life ◽  
Family Doctor ◽  
Clinical Aspects ◽  
Human Aspects ◽  
Life Issues ◽  
End Of Life Issues ◽  
Medical Teams ◽  
Depth Interviews ◽  
Training Physicians

Abstract Background Coping with end-of-life issues is a major challenge for governments and health systems. Despite progress in legislation, many barriers exist to its full implementation. This study is aimed at identifying these end-of-life barriers in relation to Israel.Methods Qualitative in-depth interviews using professionals and decision makers in the health-care and related systems (n=37) were carried out, along with two focus groups based on brainstorming techniques consisting of nurses (n=10) and social workers (n=10). Data was managed and analyzed using Naralyzer software.Results Qualitative analysis showed identification of six primary barriers: 1) law, procedures, and forms; 2) clinical aspects; 3) human aspects; 4) knowledge and skills of medical teams; 5) communication; and 6) resource allocation. These were further divided into 44 sub area barriers.Conclusions This study highlights the role of the family doctor in end-of-life by training physicians in decision-making workshops and increasing their knowledge in the field of palliative medicine. Effectively channeling resources, knowledge, and support for medical teams, by accounting for the structure and response of the units for home treatment will improve patient's access to information on and support for end-of-life laws, as well as reduce legislative barriers in other countries that face the same issues.

scholarly journals Clinical Aspects of Bacterial Corneal Ulcer Prolonged Course, the Role of Herpes Viruses in Its Pathogenesis, Treatment

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (1S) ◽  
pp. 40-44
Author(s):  
V. V. Neroev ◽  
L. A. Katargina ◽  
L. A. Kovaleva ◽  
G. I. Krichevskaya ◽  
N. V. Balatskaya
Keyword(s):  
Corneal Ulcer ◽  
Human Herpesvirus ◽  
Clinical Aspects ◽  
Herpesvirus Type ◽  
Corneal Ulcers ◽  
Barr Virus ◽  
Human Herpesvirus Type ◽  
Epstein Barr ◽  
Simplex Virus

Purpose: to study the role of human herpesviruses (HHV) in the pathogenesis of prolonged bacterial corneal ulcers. Patients and methods. 117 patients with bacterial corneal ulcer were examined. Two groups were identified: a favorable course-with duration of bacterial corneal ulcer epithelialization for 17 days (62 people) and a prolonged course with a persistent ulcer more than 17 days (55 people). Blood samples (n = 117) and scrapes from corneal ulcer (n = 117) were investigated in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of Herpes simplex virus (HSV1, 2), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Human herpesvirus type 6, 7 (HHV-6, HSV-7). Results. The HSV1, 2 and EBV genomes were detected in the cornea significantly more often in BCU of prolonged course compared with a favorable course (HSV1, 2 p = 0.012; EBV p = 0.012), and HHV-6 was detected not only in the cornea (p = 0.000), but also and in blood (p = 0.007). In patients with HHV DNA in corneal scarps and/or blood, after resorption of purulent infiltrate, corneal epithelialization was absent, and the use of antiherpetic drugs allowed to reduce the completion time of BCU epithelialization. Conclusion. The role of HHV-6, EBV, HSV 1, 2 in the pathogenesis of bacterial corneal ulcer of protracted course was revealed. The expediency of examination of patients with bacterial corneal ulcer on HHV is shown, a method of treatment is proposed, including antiherpetic therapy, which makes it possible to prevent the development of a protracted course.

scholarly journals Role of traditional medicines in the management of cancer

2014 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 215-224
Author(s):  
Mohammed Husain G ◽  
Abdul Waheed M
Keyword(s):  
Side Effects ◽  
Therapeutic Potential ◽  
Scientific Data ◽  
Driving Factors ◽  
Biologically Active ◽  
Traditional Medicines ◽  
Cancer Management ◽  
Tumour Remission

Context: Increasing numbers of cancer patients are looking towards traditional medicines (TM) in an effort to sustain tumour remission or halt the metastasis. TM such as Chinese Traditional Medicines, Ayurveda and Unani Medicines are being used in many parts of world from centuries. However, scientific data is lacking for the clinical use of majority of these medicines in cancer management and systematic clinical evaluation is mandatory before recommending long term use. Objective: The role of traditional medicine for prevention and management of cancer are reviewed in this paper which will help to take a step further to bring these TM into mainstream therapy. Methods: Traditional knowledge about the claims of therapeutic potential is collected. Emphasis was given to the use of plant derived products. Further efforts were made to identify the driving factors for use of such TM for the cure of cancer. Results: There are several driving factors which attract patients towards TM out of which minimum side effects of TM remains on the priority. Apart from being used as standalone therapy, TM is progressively becoming more popular as adjuvant therapy to improve effectiveness of conventional treatment and to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Conclusion: Patients are inclining towards TM due to diverse reasons. The search for anticancer drugs from herbs has been very productive and advances in pharmacological techniques have exerted enormous drive on the research and development of new biologically active compounds of plant origin, which may act alone or in synergistic manner.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document