Subungual melanoma - what you need to know about it. A literature review

Introduction and objective:Melanoma is one of the most malignant skin cancers originating from pigment cells, accounting for 5–7% of all skin cancers. The prognosis, especially in case of late diagnosis, is poor. The aim of the study is to systematise information on subungual melanoma. To raise awareness among the public and professionals working in the skin care sector of the diagnosis, early detection and treatment of subungual melanoma. Brief description of the state of knowledge: Subungual melanoma originates from subungual melanoma lentigines and constitutes from 0.7% to 3.5% of all malignant melanomas. Among dark-skinned populations, this subtype accounts for up to 30% and is the most common subtype of malignant melanoma among African Americans, Asians, and Latinos. Subungual melanoma occurs asymmetrically, most often affecting the big toe or thumb. In this disease, the starting point are melanocytes, which undergo malignant transformation within the nail matrix. A symptom of the disease may be melanonychia, a streak of pigment or irregular discoloration, eventually it takes the form of a triangle. This symptom indicates an advanced stage of the disease. The basis for making the diagnosis is dermoscopy and biopsy. Grazzini et al. suggest conducting a biopsy in each case where one nail plate is affected and the lesion persists for more than 6 months. An important element of diagnostics that helps diagnose of subungual melanoma is the ABCDEF algorithm. Knowledge of the above-mentioned helps to detect disturbing symptoms at an early stage of the disease, which improves the prognosis and increases the chances of cure. Summary:Early detection of melanoma gives a better chance of cure, reduces mortality and complications of the disease, therefore any action to increase public knowledge and awareness on the subject is important

Practical aspects of a low-protein diet

The updated 2020 Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines resulted in an increased interest in the use of a low-protein diet in patients with chronic kidney disease. In Poland, from March 2021, patients can be enrolled, provided that they meet certain criteria, into the therapeutic program including the use of a low-protein diet and ketonanalogues of aminoacids. However, it is very important to properly educate medical personnel and patients so that the KDOQI recommendations are implemented in clinical practice and bring benefits by slowing the progression of the chronic kidney disease

The impact of regular yoga practice on the course of endocrinological and diabetological disorders - a literature review.

Introduction and purpose: Yoga originates from ancient Indian culture. Its practice includes asanas (yoga poses) and relaxation (shavasana). An important element of yoga is breath control. It can also be practiced by individuals who are not adapted for physical activity. Numerous studies have proven the positive impact of yoga on various disorders. The aim of this study is to outline the role of yoga in the treatment of diseases with underlying endocrinological disorders: polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, and type 2 diabetes. Brief description of the state of knowledge: The growing interest in yoga practice has led to many studies evaluating the impact of regular yoga training on normalizing abnormal hormone levels, metabolic parameters, anthropometric measurements, as well as reducing clinical symptoms of a particular disease. The importance of yoga practice in improving the respiratory and circulatory system functions, regulating menstrual cycles, and ultimately - improving mental health, has also been the subject of research among endocrine patients. Their results suggest a positive impact of regular yoga training on many aspects of endocrine diseases and its advantage over conventional forms of physical activity. Summary: Regular practice of yoga is beneficial as an additional element of therapy for endocrine diseases. It has an impact not only on the regulation of hormonal disorders or anthropometric parameters, but also on improving the mental state, which is often disturbed in endocrine patients.  It is worth considering this form of physical activity instead of standard exercises, taking into account its additional benefits

How do smartphones affect physical and mental health

Introduction and the aim of the study: Fast technology makes the use of mobile phones global. On one hand, it offers a wide range of opportunities, such as improved interpersonal communication, quick access to information and entertainment, on the other- it may have a negative impact on physical activity or mental well-being. The aim of this study is to summarize the current state of knowledge about the relationship between problems related to smartphone use and health.Materials and methods: A literature search was conducted using the medical databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles were retrieved in English, employing the key words: “smartphone addiction”, “mental health” in appropriate configurations. The analysis encompassed data from 39 scientific references published between 2014 and 2024.Conclusions: Problematic smartphone use is a rapidly developing phenomenon, whereas mental health deviance may pose as a risk factor as much as an effect of smartphone overuse. Research results are needed to better describe this disorder and its medical consequences

The association between breast implants and anaplastic large cell lymphoma - a comprehensive review

Introduction and purpose: Recently, the topic of the incidence of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma has become very popular. The aetiology of the disease is not fully understood. Many women worldwide have undergone breast implant surgery, so raising awareness about the possibility of developing BIA-ALCL is crucial for early diagnosis. The aim of this article is to review and compile the currently available knowledge regarding the association of anaplastic large cell lymphoma with breast implants in patients who have undergone implant plastic surgery. Brief description of the state of knowledge: Literature data indicate a multifactorial aetiology of BIA-ALCL. Textured surface breast implants are suspected to be a significant risk factor, as they may lead to the development of chronic inflammation. The most common symptoms of BIA-ALCL include the accumulation of serous fluid around the breast implant, pain, swelling or breast asymmetry. A proper diagnostic and therapeutic process improves the prognosis. Material and methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search strategy was based on the following terms: BIA-ALCL; lymphoma; breast implants; textured implants. Conclusions: Although BIA-ALCL is a rare disease, it is important to know the risk factors and clinical signs that may suggest the disease. A proper diagnostic process allows the disease to be detected at an early stage and treated effectively. Knowledge of the occurrence of potential complications of implant surgery allows patients to take informed consent and increases vigilance on the part of clinicians

Assessment of Dysphagia as a Risk Factor of Chronic Cough

Background: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of dysphagia in patients with chronic cough and its relationship with the long-term persistence of these symptoms. Methods: Thirty consecutive patients. All patients underwent physical examination, ENT assessment, videolaryngoscopy, functional phoniatric assessment at rest and speech, Water-Swallow Test, and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing disorders with Reflux Finding Score. Reflux Symptom Index questionnaire was performed. The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee Review Board (KB/39/A/2016). Results: The results of the RFS and the RSI questionnaire showed the risk of reflux in participating patients. The patients presented episodes of spillage, double swallows, penetration, aspiration and residue of food at the hypopharynx. The results of functional assessment correlated with the Water-Swallow Test. The correlation between Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing disorders and Water-Swallow Test results was found for aspiration risk, spillage, and retention of saliva. Conclusion: The results of the study showed prevalence of dysphagia in most patients with chronic chough. It seems that phoniatric assessment in those cases should be expanded and the following tests should be performed: assessment of the laryngeal elevation, Water-Swallow Test, and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing disorders

Podłoże genetyczne i diagnostyka nefropatii IgA

Nefropatia IgA należy do najczęściej występujących pierwotnych chorób kłębuszków nerkowych. W Europie stanowi do 30% wszystkich pierwotnych glomerulopatii. Chorobę Bergera cechuje różne tempo rozwoju; w niektórych przypadkach doprowadza ona do skrajnej niewydolności nerek. Nefropatia IgA ma podłoże wieloczynnikowe, pewną rolę w jej powstawaniu przypisuje się różnym genom. Obecnie do ustalenia rozpoznania konieczne jest wykonanie badania histopatologicznego bioptatu nerki. W niniejszym artykule omówiono podłoże genetyczne oraz diagnostykę nefropatii IgA

Przyzwojak przebiegający z objawami niedystonicznego kręczu karku

Przyzwojak to rzadki nowotwór wywodzący się z chemoreceptorów ciałek przyzwojowych, należący do licznej grupy nowotworów głowy i szyi. Charakteryzuje się powolnym wzrostem i zróżnicowaną manifestacją kliniczną. Autorzy przedstawili przypadek 63-letniej pacjentki z przyzwojakiem powodującym nieprawidłowe ustawienie głowy oraz jednostronny niedosłuch