Clinics and Practice

Tracheostomy, a critical airway intervention, has a long and complex history that dates back to antiquity. While the earliest references to the procedure appear in Egyptian and Indian medical texts, its development within ancient Greek medicine remains a subject of historical debate. This study explores the evolution of tracheostomy in ancient Greece, analyzing its theoretical foundations, historical accounts, and surgical advancements. Despite Hippocratic opposition, which largely discouraged invasive airway procedures due to the risk of fatal complications, later physicians such as Asclepiades, Aretaeus, and Antyllus made significant contributions to refining airway management techniques. The anatomical studies of Galen further advanced the understanding of respiratory physiology, including early concepts of artificial ventilation. Additionally, this study examines archaeological evidence, such as a marble relief discovered in Abdera, which may depict an early attempt at tracheostomy, providing valuable insight into the practical application of airway interventions in antiquity. By comparing ancient Greek surgical techniques with modern tracheostomy practices, this research highlights the continuity of medical knowledge and innovation. It underlines the role of ancient Greek physicians in shaping the principles of thoracic surgery, offering a broader understanding of how early medical practices have influenced contemporary airway management. The findings contribute to the historical perspective on tracheostomy, emphasizing the timeless pursuit of life-saving surgical advancements and the evolving relationship between theoretical medical knowledge and practical surgical application. Full article

Background: Digitalisation is becoming increasingly integrated into the field of dentistry; therefore, it is crucial to understand both the challenges it introduces and the opportunities it provides. By doing so, the research will offer insights into how digital tools can affect the work environment and contribute to the overall well-being and performance of dental professionals. Objectives: The present study aims to explore how dentists perceive the demands and resources within a digitalised dental practice. Methods: The present study adopted a qualitative design, incorporating guideline-based interviews. A total of 30 interviews were conducted with dentists from various German dental practices, with a focus on key topics such as job demands, job resources, digital stress factors, job satisfaction, and support needs in the context of digital dentistry. The interview data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings highlight that digital systems in dental practices offer benefits such as reduced errors and time savings, but also pose challenges, especially for less experienced users. While they improve efficiency, precision, and professional development, they can also lead to negative effects like dependence on technology, loss of manual skills, technical failures, and increased stress, particularly during the adaptation phase. These results suggest that successful integration of digital technologies requires adequate support to overcome initial learning curves and ensure long-term benefits. Conclusions: The results of the study underline the importance of effective implementation, comprehensive staff training, and technological reliability to maximise the benefits of digital tools and minimise their drawbacks. Maintaining a balance between digital stressors and resources is crucial to promoting a healthy work environment. Future research should focus on the long-term effects of training programmes and the integration of digital technologies into dental practices to increase their effectiveness in terms of job satisfaction and reduce potential risks. Full article

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a rare autoimmune disease, primarily affecting elderly individuals, that significantly impacts the patient’s quality of life. In contrast, psoriasis vulgaris (PV) is a common, chronic, immune-mediated skin condition recognized as a systemic T-cell-mediated disorder. We aim to present the case of a patient suffering from a dermatologic association of BP and PV, which unveiled hepatitis C viral infection as a potential trigger and led to complex therapeutic challenges. A literature review is also included, exploring previous cases of overlapping BP and PV, along with a discussion of the unique pathogenic mechanisms and an analysis of the available therapeutic options. The patient, a 53-year-old male with a seven-year history of PV, presented with tense bullae overlying the psoriatic papules and plaques, with a generalized distribution. The presence of hepatitis C infection was considered a potential trigger for the concurrent presentation of BP and PV. Recent GWASs have demonstrated a potential causal relationship between PV and the subsequent development of BP, suggesting shared genetic susceptibility and immune pathways. However, the exact mechanisms driving this transition remain incompletely understood. Our case is particularly relevant as it exemplifies how environmental triggers—such as chronic hepatitis C infection—together with chronic cutaneous inflammation may act as cofactors in this process, possibly through the ‘epitope spreading’ phenomenon. This case underlines the importance of identifying triggering factors in patients with overlapping autoimmune diseases and reinforces the need for future research to further elucidate the pathogenic link between genotype and phenotype, in order to improve personalized therapeutic strategies. Full article

Introduction: The objective of the present work is to assess the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) with respect to pain, inflammation, and healing after tooth extractions as compared with a sham treatment. Method: A single-blinded, randomized clinical study conducted in a private dental clinic in Murcia, it included 124 patients who needed a tooth extraction, excluding those with medical conditions that could affect healing (such as non-controlled diabetes, immunosuppression, or hemorrhagic disorders). Group I (Experimental): extraction and PBM session with a diode laser (power: 0.5 W, energy 15 J/cm² for 10–30 s at 1 mm from the tissue). Group II (Sham treatment): tooth extraction and application of inactive PBM. Results: Pain and inflammation decreased similarly in both groups over time. Anxiety decreased in both groups without significant differences (p = 0.776; p = 0.246). There was no evidence that the treatment or location of the extraction had an influence on healing. Suturing the socket increased the likelihood of good healing (p = 0.048), while long procedures reduced it (p = 0.040). Conclusions: PBM is a non-invasive and safe therapy. This study did not show significant differences with respect to the sham treatment. More research is needed with a standardized methodology to better assess its efficacy. Full article

Background: The role of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) in both mothers and neonates has been suggested as a possible factor in the development of allergic conditions in early infancy, however limited research has investigated this link in relation to allergic rhinitis (AR). This study investigates whether VDD in the mother–newborn dyad is associated with the onset of AR in neonates within the first three days after birth. The aim is to contribute to the understanding of neonatal allergic outcomes related to vitamin D status, which may inform future preventive strategies. This study investigates the role of vitamin D in the early onset of allergic rhinitis (AR) in neonates, specifically within the first three days of life. Although AR typically develops after years of allergen exposure and is rare in children under two, we aimed to explore its occurrence at this early stage. While no clear link was found between vitamin D and early AR onset, further research is needed to explore vitamin D levels at later ages and over longer time frames to clarify the relationship. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2019 and January 2022 in a single hospital. The study involved 248 infants born at ≥37 weeks of gestation and their mothers, who were of Greek nationality. The study included mother–infant pairs who met the inclusion criteria. Chi-square tests were applied to analyze the association between maternal or neonatal VDD and the presence of AR in neonates within the first three days after birth. In addition, multiple regression analysis was used to control other potential factors contributing to AR. Results: The results showed an unclear relationship between VDD and the onset of AR in neonates within the first three days of life. Although several factors were analyzed, the effect of VDD on the development of AR remained unclear. Conclusions: The findings highlight the lack of clarity regarding the effect of maternal and neonatal VDD on the incidence of AR in the immediate neonatal period. Few studies to date have specifically examined the role of VDD in neonatal AR. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to verify these associations and to guide potential interventions aimed at reducing allergic outcomes in neonates. Full article

Background: Early sport specialization, involving intensive focus on a single sport for greater than 8 months per year at a prepubescent age, has become increasingly common in young athletes. While early sport specialization is often regarded as essential for success, there is growing concern that the potential risks to young athletes may outweigh the perceived benefits. Although numerous studies have explored early sport specialization, there has been no summative review on the topic in regard to the comprehensive impact on outcomes in these athletes. This study aims to systematically review the literature to determine the impacts of early specialization on injury, function, performance, sport success, and psychological outcomes. Methods: A review of Medline (PubMed) was conducted to search for studies relating to early sport specialization in pediatric patients (time of specialization < 18 years old) and outcomes. Extracted information included injury outcomes with a focus on overuse injuries, functional outcomes, performance outcomes, sport success, and psychological outcomes. For studies that reported relevant statistics, p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. All studies were described qualitatively. Results: An initial search resulted in a total of 826 studies. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 93 studies were included. A total of 62,327 athletes were included in the study. The average age of study participants was 15.9 years, with an average age at specialization of 11.6 years. Early sport specialization was associated with increased risk of injury, worse functional and physical performance, decreased or no benefit to sport success, and poor psychological outcomes. Conclusions: Early sport specialization was associated with increased risk of injury and negative impacts on functional and physical performance measures. There was also no clear advantage regarding sport success. Early sport specialization was linked to harmful effects on athlete psychological well-being. Late specialization, multisport participation, and following training volume guidelines can aid in mitigating these risks. Full article

Background: To develop and validate the Tinnitus Qualities and Impact Questionnaire (TQIQ), a new tool for evaluating the perceived qualities of tinnitus sound. Method: The study was part of two clinical trials on internet-based tinnitus interventions, using cross-sectional (n = 380) and pretest–posttest data (n = 280). Participants completed various questionnaires online, including the newly developed TQIQ and measures of tinnitus severity (Tinnitus Functional Index; TFI), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7; GAD-7), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire 9; PHQ-9), insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index; ISI), and health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L Visual Analog Scale; VAS). The psychometric properties of the TQIQ were assessed, including construct validity, internal consistency reliability, floor and ceiling effects, interpretability, and responsiveness to treatment. Results: Exploratory factor analysis resulted in two factors that accounted for 57% of the variance—internal and external tinnitus qualities. Overall, 92% convergent validity predictions were confirmed; TQIQ total scores strongly (≥0.6) or moderately (0.30 to 0.59) correlated with the TFI, GAD-7, PHQ-9, and ISI. The known-groups validity prediction was confirmed as individuals with an overall TFI score > 50 (severe) obtained significantly higher TQIQ scores. All internal consistency reliability statistics were within the required range (Cronbach’s α > 0.8). Floor and ceiling effects were negligible. ROC established clinically important cut-off scores, enhancing the interpretability of tinnitus severity classification. Finally, 89% convergent validity predictions were confirmed; TQIQ and TFI change scores were moderately correlated, indicating good responsiveness of the former to treatment. Conclusions: The TQIQ has adequate psychometric properties, providing a standardized measure for the assessment of characteristics of tinnitus sound in clinical practice. Full article

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of mortality across the globe, prompting ongoing research into novel biomarkers for improved risk stratification and patient management. Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between two promising biomarkers, tetranectin and paraoxonase 1, and the severity of heart failure in a cohort of 87 patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Participants were categorized into three groups based on their New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification: no HF (Control), NYHA class I (G1), and NYHA class II-IV (G2). Results: Our analysis revealed a stepwise decrease in both TETRA and PON1 levels with increasing HF severity, with the Control group exhibiting the highest levels and the G2 group the lowest. Interestingly, a significant positive correlation between TETRA and PON1 was observed only in the Control group, suggesting a potential interplay between these biomarkers in healthy individuals that may be disrupted with the onset of HF. Furthermore, both TETRA and PON1 were positively associated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and negatively associated with diastolic dysfunction, indicating their potential involvement in both systolic and diastolic cardiac function. Conclusions: These findings suggest that TETRA and PON1 may serve as valuable biomarkers for assessing HF severity and prognosis. Further research is warranted to validate these findings in larger, prospective studies and to explore their clinical utility in guiding treatment decisions. Full article

Introduction: Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage is a serious complication that varies according to the surgical technique used, potentially compromising patient safety and recovery. Even though several techniques were frequently used, including cold steel dissection, coblation, monopolar diathermy, and bipolar diathermy, there were certain discrepancies in hemorrhage rates in the literature. This meta-analysis aims to compare the rates of primary and secondary hemorrhage among these surgical techniques, with a focus on guiding clinical decision-making. Methodology: A total of 12 studies, published between 2005 and 2024, were selected from the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases, comprising 1684 participants from both pediatric and adult groups. Primary and secondary hemorrhage rates, surgical techniques, and study characteristics were extracted as data. Therefore, the aim of performing this meta-analysis with random-effects models was to calculate pooled estimates for hemorrhage rates and the heterogeneity index (I²). The techniques studied included cold steel dissection, coblation, monopolar diathermy, and bipolar diathermy. Results: The pooled primary hemorrhage rate across all techniques was 1.0% (95% Cl: 0.5–1.4%), with insignificant heterogeneity (I² = 0.0%, p < 0.665). By contrast, pooled secondary hemorrhage occurred at a rate of 5.8% (95% CI: 3.9–7.6%). Cold steel tonsillectomy was associated with the lowest secondary hemorrhage rate of 3.7% (95% CI: 0.8–6.6%, I² = 43.558%, p = 0.115), while bipolar diathermy had the highest secondary hemorrhage rate of 8.6% (95% CI: 2.3–15.0%, I² = 86.448%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: This meta-analysis underscores the considerable variability in rates of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage frequency among various surgical techniques. Cold steel dissection appears to be the safest regarding secondary hemorrhage, while coblation likely minimizes primary bleeding. Bipolar diathermy comes across as the technique with the highest risk for primary hemorrhage and requires special caution during its use. Such results emphasize the need for careful selection of the surgical technique concerning patients’ particular conditions and the need to enhance care periods to reduce the bearing of any hemorrhagic complications. Full article

Background and Objectives: Uveitis-masked syndromes or masquerade syndromes (UMSs) are a group of ocular conditions with several systemic underlying causes, malignant or nonmalignant, that mimic the inflammatory status of the uvea. They are often difficult to detect and diagnose with traditional techniques, such as ophthalmic exams. Ocular B (bidimensional)-ultrasound (OBU) is a non-invasive, repeatable, rapid ultrasound method effective in indirect signs that lead back to systemic diseases. It is comparable in effectiveness with other imaging tools. The cause of UMSs can often be serious, and therefore early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical. This study aimed to identify the sonographic signs of these forms, which can help physicians discover the cause underlying UMS. Materials and Methods: This was a consecutive, retrospective, nonrandomized study. This study was conducted at the University Hospital Polyclinic of Bari, Italy, from January 2022 to December 2024. A total of 186 patients were included, from 10 to 85 years old. They all underwent B-scan ultrasonography (Quantel Medical ABSolu Ocular Ultrasound). Results: All patients reported blurred vision, which could be accompanied by visual reduction (<20/40, Snellen charts), photophobia, floaters, flashes, proptosis, and redness. In all cases, we noted peculiar ultrasonographic signs, which allowed us to discriminate the underlying systemic diagnosis, such as vitreous corpuscles, choroid thickening, and primitive or metastatic solid tumors. Finally, we identified different diseases, such as primary intraocular lymphoma (PIOL), other lymphoproliferative conditions, orbital plasmacytoma, uveal melanoma, metastasis, endogenous endophthalmitis, retinal detachment, central serous retinopathy, metallic foreign bodies, ocular amyloidosis, and drug-induced UMSs. The sensitivity and specificity of ocular ultrasound compared to multimodal ocular imaging in UMSs were as follows: for primary intraocular lymphoma (PIOL) and other lymphoproliferative conditions, 0.98 (95% CI, 0.80–1) and 0.68 (90% CI, 0.40–0.92), respectively; for orbital plasmacytoma, 0.64 (92% CI, 0.52–0.86) and 0.66 (93% CI, 0.48–0.89), respectively; uveal melanoma, 1.00 (98% CI, 0.88–1.00) and 0.98 (95% CI, 0.86–0.98), respectively; metastasis, 0.75 (95% CI, 0.53–0.85) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.48–0.98), respectively; endogenous endophthalmitis, 1.00 (95% CI, 0.50–1.00) and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.48–0.98), respectively; retinal detachment, both were 1.00 (95% CI, 0.87–1.00 and 0.84–0.97, respectively); central serous retinopathy, 0.60 (80% CI, 0.41–0.88) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.52–0.98), respectively; metallic foreign bodies, 1.00 (95% CI, 0.78–1.00) and 0.99 (95% CI, 0.99–1.00), respectively; ocular amyloidosis, 0.77 (82% CI, 0.52–0.90) and 0.83 (80% CI, 0.49–0.88), respectively; and drug-induced UMSs, 0.64 (95% CI, 0.49–0.88) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.52–0.98), respectively. Conclusions: Diagnosing UMS accurately can be quite challenging, and many of its different types frequently go undetected. This complexity in identification often leads to underdiagnosis, meaning it is essential to improve awareness and understanding of the condition in order to achieve better recognition and treatment. Early detection of these forms is imperative. The use of OBU can help diagnose indirect signs of these forms early and treat them promptly. It compares well with other diagnostic imaging techniques, such as MRI, but this does not mean that it replaces them; it can offer added value in multimodal imaging. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cumulus cells have been proposed to be indicators of oocyte quality. In this study, oocyte cumulus cells were analyzed for SERPINE gene expression. High SERPINE gene expression in cumulus cells is associated with reduced oocyte maturity. However, high mRNA levels in granulosa cells are associated with follicles that result in pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate SERPINE gene expression in cumulus cells across different ovarian stimulation protocols and its potential impact on follicle number, oocyte maturity, and embryo quality. Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 93 infertile women that underwent a five-day fixed antagonist protocol. Detection of SERPINE gene expression levels in cumulus cells was performed by extracting and isolating the total RNA produced in granulosa cells, and conducting cDNA synthesis and Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction. Results: The SERPINE gene expression in CCs was assessed in 71 samples. The SERPINE gene expression levels in CCs were categorized based on the ΔCp values. Most participants (65.9%) exhibited a high expression of the SERPINE gene, with ΔCp values greater than 2. Higher gene expression resulted in a higher number of follicles. However, no statistically significant results were observed regarding the number of follicles and the number of embryos. Conclusions: The study results provide insights into the expression patterns of the SERPINE gene in CCs and underscore the complexity of fertility-related biomarkers and the need for further investigation. SERPINE expression appears to be associated with follicle count, while its role in predicting oocyte quality and pregnancy success remains inconclusive. Full article

Background: Microsurgery is a demanding surgical field requiring precision and extensive training. There is a continued need for standardized training models to improve skill acquisition and efficiency in microvascular anastomosis. Objectives: This study aimed to assess whether a standardized microsurgery training protocol, focusing on technique-specific objectives, improves performance among beginner trainees. Material and Methods: A three-month, non-randomized cohort study was conducted with entry-level plastic surgery residents. Participants were assigned to either a control group, practicing without structured guidance, or a test group, using a predefined microsurgery curriculum. Skill performance was measured at baseline, three weeks, and three months using a modified University of Western Ontario Microsurgical Skills Assessment (UWOMSA) tool. Results: While both groups improved over time, the test group demonstrated significantly greater improvement at the three-month mark (mean score: 59 vs. 38; p = 0.00027). The structured training model promoted more consistent progress and superior microsurgical technique. Conclusions: A standardized training protocol significantly enhances microsurgical proficiency over time. These findings suggest value in structured, low-cost training models for microsurgical education. Limitations include the small sample size, use of non-living models, and a non-randomized design. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the number needed to treat (NNT) of ketorolac in comparison to placebo after third molar surgery. Methods: Studies located in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were evaluated with the Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool. Data on the onset of analgesia, the number of patients requiring rescue medication, the global or general evaluation of the study medication, and adverse effects were extracted. Data analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3 software for Windows. Results: The qualitative assessment of the included studies showed that ketorolac was more effective than a placebo and the quantitative evaluation on the onset of analgesia (NNT = 1.6 (95%CIs = 1.4, 1.9), n = 301), the number of patients who took rescue analgesics (NNT = 3.6 (95%CIs = 2.8 to 4.9), n = 563), and the global evaluation of the treatments (NNT = 1.7 (95%CIs = 1.5 to 1.9), n = 475) showed estimates of analgesic efficacy with a statistical difference in favor of ketorolac when compared with a placebo. No statistical difference was observed in adverse effects between ketorolac and placebo (n = 739). Conclusions: There is scientific evidence of moderate quality that allows estimators of the analgesic efficacy of ketorolac to be calculated, which will significantly help the clinician who performs pharmacological treatment after third molar surgery. Full article

Background/Objectives: The diversity of the oral microbiota exerts its effects in maintaining dental and overall health. The unique genetic profile of each individual influences the composition of the oral microbiota, determining susceptibility to certain diseases. The aim is to observe its role by highlighting the pathogenic mechanisms involved in oral dysbiosis and identify genetic determinism’s influence in maintaining balance. Methods: This study was designed as a narrative review of the oral microbiota, utilizing some of the principles and guidelines of systematic review to increase methodological rigor. We examined 121 articles such as reviews, meta-analyses, editorials, and observational studies, which met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria for studies were as follows: (1) studies that evaluated the impact of the microbiota in oral or/and systemic diseases; (2) studies that observed pathogenic mechanisms in the oral microbiota; (3) studies that evaluated the interaction of the microbiota with the immune system (4); studies that evaluated genetic implications in the microbiota. Results: Host genes regulate inflammatory and immunological reactions that play a role in microbiological balance. This explains the increased resistance of some to diseases, including gingivitis or periodontitis. Also, the implications of oral dysbiosis are reflected not only locally, but also generally, being associated with various systemic conditions. Conclusions: Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms and genetic determinants involved in oral dysbiosis may help create individualized therapies for preventing and managing oral and systemic disorders. A healthy lifestyle and adequate oral hygiene can facilitate a diverse and balanced microbiome, crucial for overall health. Full article

Background/Objectives: Telemedicine (TM) has emerged as a promising tool for improving heart failure (HF) management by allowing non-invasive, remote patient monitoring. However, patient adherence to TM plays a critical role in its effectiveness. This systematic review aims to assess adherence levels to non-invasive TM interventions and explore factors influencing compliance. Methods: This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines. A literature search was conducted across the PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases to identify prospective randomized controlled trials published between January 2010 and June 2024. The inclusion criteria included studies focused on non-invasive TM in HF patients with a follow-up period longer than three months. Adherence rates were categorized as high (≥80%), moderate (60–79%), or low (<60%). Results: Of the 136 identified studies, 6 met the inclusion criteria. Three studies reported high adherence (>80%), and three moderate adherence (60–79%). Older patients (≥65 years) showed higher adherence, with two studies exceeding 85% adherence. Studies with higher female participation (>30%) reported better adherence, with two exceeding 88%. Across studies, a lack of racial diversity was especially notable, apart from a study that included a population with 69% black and 31% Hispanic participants, where adherence was 50% for ≥10 uploads over a 90-day period. Seasonal variations affected adherence, with December being the lowest (47–69%) and August the highest (>85%). Monitoring multiple health parameters correlated with better adherence (>85%) compared to single-parameter tracking (50–74%). Conclusions: TM is a promising tool for HF management, but adherence differs by age, sex, and the complexity of monitoring. To optimize TM use, standardized adherence measures and tailored strategies are needed. Full article

Background: Chronic diseases require long-term and multidimensional care, but traditional medical education has emphasised acute care and episodic interventions. This gap limits the understanding of future clinicians about the complexity of managing chronic conditions over decades. This mix-methods quantitative–qualitative pilot study describes “Time Capsule Medicine”, an innovative educational framework in which medical students acted out the progressive challenges that patients with chronic illnesses might face over a continuous period of 20 years. This paper aims to report the outcomes of this innovative educational technique. Methods: Thirty final-year medical students were engaged in the three-phase programme which included preparation, immersive simulation, and reflection and evaluation. The preparation consisted of online workshops in chronic disease progression, age-related changes, and continuity of care, while the immersive simulation featured appropriate role-play exercises in small groups that simulated the chronic disease process across four five-year increments. The reflection and evaluation consisted of debriefing sessions and reflective journals, while pre- and post-simulation questionnaires tested learning outcomes. The physical constraints included weighted garments with visual impairments simulating the age-related limitations. Results: A gender- and ethnically diverse cohort of thirty final-year medical students from three medical schools in North London participated in the programme. The simulation significantly enhanced students’ confidence in managing long-term disease trajectories (pre-simulation score: 2.8 ± 0.9; post-simulation score: 4.3 ± 0.6; p < 0.01) and understanding of age-related challenges (from 3.1 ± 1.0 to 4.5 ± 0.5; p < 0.01). Empathy scores increased from 3.0 ± 0.9 to 4.7 ± 0.5 p < 0.01. The qualitative analysis showed an increased appreciation of the continuity of care, recognition of systemic barriers, and insights into the emotional burdens of chronic conditions. For many students, the simulation was transformative, changing the way they approached holistic, patient-centred care. Conclusions: This experiential learning approach has succeeded in effectively addressing one of the most important gaps known in traditional medical education in developing empathy, understanding, and confidence in the long-term management of chronic diseases. The integration of similar simulations into medical curricula may adequately arm future clinicians with the complexities of continuity of care and patient management. Further studies need to be performed exploring scalability and its impact on long-term clinical practice. Full article

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a vector-borne infection caused by protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Leishmania. CL is an emerging global health concern due to increasing migration, travel, and climate change. Traditionally, it was confined to endemic regions such as the Americas, the Middle East, and Central Asia; however, it is now spreading to non-endemic areas. Climate change has further contributed to the expansion of sandfly habitats, increasing CL transmission risk in previously unaffected areas. Healthcare providers in non-endemic regions often misdiagnose CL, delaying treatment and morbidity. Diagnosis remains challenging due to the need for species-specific identification, while treatment is limited by cost, availability, and personnel expertise. This review explores the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management of CL in the context of global mobility. It highlights rising CL cases in refugee settlements, particularly in Lebanon and Jordan, due to poor living conditions, inadequate vector control, and healthcare barriers. While there have been advances in systemic and topical therapies, access in refugee and resource-poor settings remains a barrier. Addressing the global burden of CL requires improved surveillance, healthcare provider training, and increased awareness. By enhancing global collaboration and policy changes, public health efforts can mitigate the expanding impact of CL. Full article

Objectives: This cohort study examines the relationship between quality of life and oral health in adolescents and young adults in the Zagreb area. Methods: The research involved 250 participants aged 14 to 25 from Zagreb. Each participant was examined by an oral medicine doctor using a probe and mirror in a dental unit, and their DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) status was determined. Participants also completed questionnaires on their socio-economic status (SES) and the impact of their oral health on quality of life (OHIP-14, Oral Health Impact Profile). Results: Caries was the most common dental issue among adolescents (2.23 ± 2.58), with restoration being the most frequent treatment (54%). Endodontic treatment and tooth extraction were more prevalent among individuals with lower SES (24.1%), who also had worse DMFT scores (8.09 ± 5.56). Prophylaxis was equally distributed across SES and gender. Male patients had more carious teeth (2.75 ± 3.07) than female patients (1.85 ± 2.08), while female patients scored worse on the OHIP-14 scale (10.97 ± 8.77) compared to males (8.81 ± 8.11). Age positively correlated with both OHIP-14 and DMFT scores. Conclusions: Adolescents and young adults in Zagreb, Croatia, exhibited high DMFT and OHIP-14 scores, reflecting significant oral health issues and reduced quality of life, particularly among older individuals and those with lower SES. The association between invasive treatments (e.g., endodontic procedures and extractions) and diminished quality of life underscores the necessity for early preventive measures, including regular dental check-ups and targeted oral health education. Full article

Background/Objectives: Renal cell cancer is a rare occurrence in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), with no clearly demonstrated association between UC and an increased risk of renal malignancies. In this article, a case report concerning this relationship is presented. Methods: Our research group presented a case of clear cell renal carcinoma in a 56-year-old male with UC who had previously undergone ileorectal anastomosis and subtotal colectomy. Results: The patient developed a complex renal cyst that progressed to malignancy within one year while on immunosuppressive therapy with infliximab and then filgotinib. Previous ultrasound examinations of the kidney highlighted only simple cysts in the contralateral kidney in previous years. The neoplasm was promptly examined using contrast-enhanced ultrasound, confirming the diagnosis of a Bosniak IV cyst, which was corroborated by a subsequent computed tomography study. Conclusions: The patient underwent a nephrectomy and is currently scheduled for therapy with vedolizumab. Given the increasing use of biologics and small molecules in UC management, periodic ultrasound screening may be a valuable tool for the long-term monitoring of these patients. Full article