Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health最新文献

{"title":"Using thematic analysis in qualitative research","authors":"Sirwan Khalid Ahmed ,&nbsp;Ribwar Arsalan Mohammed,&nbsp;Abdulqadir J. Nashwan,&nbsp;Radhwan Hussein Ibrahim,&nbsp;Araz Qadir Abdalla,&nbsp;Barzan Mohammed M. Ameen,&nbsp;Renas Mohammed Khdhir","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100198","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100198","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Thematic analysis (TA) is one of the most widely utilized methods for analyzing qualitative data, offering a structured yet flexible framework for identifying, analyzing, and interpreting patterns of meaning within datasets. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis framework, which includes (1) familiarization with data, (2) generating initial codes, (3) searching for themes, (4) reviewing themes, (5) defining and naming themes, and (6) writing the report. Additionally, it presents a 16-item checklist to ensure adherence to the established steps of thematic analysis, enhancing the rigor and reliability of the study. Each phase is explored in-depth, highlighting its purpose, key activities, reflexive considerations, challenges, and significance. Emphasis is placed on the iterative and reflexive nature of TA, where researchers actively engage with data and acknowledge their theoretical positioning and biases throughout the process. Challenges such as data overwhelm, coding inconsistencies, and balancing thematic depth and breadth are addressed, alongside practical strategies for overcoming these obstacles. The importance of transparency, reflexivity, and methodological rigor is underscored as central to producing trustworthy and insightful qualitative research. This article serves as both an academic reference and a practical guide for researchers aiming to apply thematic analysis effectively, ensuring that their findings are presented in a coherent, compelling, and analytically sound manner.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100198"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143844184","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Bridging the gap: Advancing occupational therapy in cancer recovery for better outcomes","authors":"Amanda dos Santos Pereira ,&nbsp;Alexander Miller ,&nbsp;Amos Olalekan Akinyemi","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100196","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100196","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cancer is a complex illness that affects millions of individuals worldwide, posing multifaceted challenges to their physical, mental, and social well-being, often hindering engagement in meaningful activities. In recent years, occupational therapy has emerged as a vital component in the comprehensive care of cancer patients, facilitating their recovery and enhancing their quality of life. This commentary explores the intersection of cancer care and occupational therapy, elucidating the role of occupational therapists in addressing the diverse needs of cancer patients across the continuum of care. Drawing on literature published between 2000 and 2025, this commentary synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed articles, clinical guidelines, and practice-based insights. It emphasizes the importance of advancing occupational therapy interventions in promoting functional independence, managing symptoms, and fostering psychosocial well-being in individuals affected by cancer. Furthermore, it discusses various approaches and techniques employed by occupational therapists in oncology settings, emphasizing the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration to optimizing patient outcomes. By integrating evidence-based insights, this commentary demonstrates the pivotal role of occupational therapy in bridging the gap between cancer treatment and rehabilitation, ultimately contributing to improved recovery and enhanced quality of life for cancer survivors.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100196"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143834949","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Attitudes of older patients toward artificial intelligence in decision-making in healthcare","authors":"Moustaq Karim Khan Rony ,&nbsp;Tuli Rani Deb ,&nbsp;Most. Tahmina Khatun ,&nbsp;Latifun Nesa ,&nbsp;Jeni Begum ,&nbsp;Mahabuba Afrin ,&nbsp;Md. Abdun Noor ,&nbsp;Mosammat Ruma Akter ,&nbsp;Mst. Amena Khatun ,&nbsp;Most. Hasina Begum ,&nbsp;Mst. Rina Parvin ,&nbsp;Fazila Akter","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100193","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100193","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming healthcare, promising improved diagnostics and efficiency. However, the ethical implications and patient perspectives, particularly among older adults, remain underexplored. This study aimed to explore the ethical considerations and attitudes of older patients toward AI in healthcare decision-making.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We conducted qualitative research in the geriatric wards of three hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh, using the Technology Acceptance Model and a phenomenological approach as the guiding frameworks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 purposively sampled participants, all aged 60 and above. Data were collected in Bangla, transcribed, translated into English, and analyzed through thematic analysis. Methodological rigor was maintained through member checking, triangulation, and reflexive practices.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Five key themes emerged: (1) Trust and skepticism toward AI’s decision-making capabilities, with concerns about its ability to address nuanced health needs; (2) A strong preference for human interaction over technological efficiency, highlighting the irreplaceable value of empathy; (3) Ethical concerns regarding informed consent, emphasizing the need for transparent and comprehensible AI integration; (4) Apprehension about privacy and data security, reflecting a trust deficit in AI’s handling of sensitive health information; and (5) Mixed perceptions on AI’s role in enhancing or diminishing the quality of care.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study underscores the need for transparent, patient-centered AI systems that enhance, rather than replace, human elements in care. Addressing ethical concerns about privacy, autonomy, and informed consent is critical to fostering trust and acceptance among older patients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100193"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143820753","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Pediatric Frailty: From concept to action – Advancing measurement, biomarkers, and clinical integration","authors":"Rosario Caruso,&nbsp;Arianna Magon","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100195","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100195","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Frailty in pediatric populations is an emerging but increasingly relevant construct that extends beyond physical vulnerability to encompass psychological, social, and developmental dimensions. Although initially conceptualized within gerontology, frailty has gained traction in pediatric healthcare, particularly as it pertains to children living with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or complex care needs. Yet, despite its growing clinical and scientific relevance, pediatric frailty remains an underdeveloped field, with ongoing challenges in its definition, measurement, and integration into practice. This letter outlines the historical evolution of pediatric frailty, identifying four key developmental phases: pre-reflective, reflective, definitional, and research. Initially used synonymously with vulnerability, frailty gradually evolved into an analytical framework supported by statistical modeling, and later became a clinically relevant concept tied to familial and psychological dimensions. The definitional phase saw frailty recognized in pediatric subspecialties, especially oncology and cardiology, with attention to inherited patterns and intergenerational health risks. In the current research phase, efforts have intensified to operationalize frailty through validated scores, biomarkers, and predictive indices tailored to pediatric populations. Notably, frailty is increasingly recognized as a dynamic and multidimensional syndrome that necessitates a broader perspective encompassing family systems and social determinants of health. Despite these advancements, significant gaps persist in the conceptual and methodological foundations of pediatric and familial frailty. There remains a pressing need to develop age-appropriate tools, validate longitudinal trajectories, and incorporate frailty screening into pediatric care pathways. Bridging the gap between conceptual insights and clinical implementation is crucial for enhancing outcomes for vulnerable children and their families. We call on the pediatric clinical communities to prioritize frailty as a core component of child health research and policy. Integrating psychosocial and developmental indicators alongside biological markers will enable early identification and targeted interventions. The evolution of frailty from a theoretical construct to a measurable, actionable clinical entity is within reach—provided future research continues to advance with precision, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered focus.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100195"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143792101","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Operating room personnel perspectives on sustainable practices in the operative environment","authors":"Natasha Sood ,&nbsp;Calista Long ,&nbsp;Yuriy Pechenyy ,&nbsp;Catherine Caldwell ,&nbsp;Amanda Cooper ,&nbsp;Andrew Geronimo","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100191","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100191","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The United States healthcare sector is responsible for the highest proportion of carbon emissions attributable to any country. The objective of this study was to examine the attitudes of operating room (OR) personnel towards current waste production, energy use and recycling practices, knowledge of institutional policies, and perceived facilitators and barriers to enhancing sustainability in the OR environment. A cross-sectional survey of OR personnel was conducted at a single US academic tertiary care center to assess these perceptions of OR waste and its management. Questions targeted educational/workplace training in sustainable practices, knowledge of existing policies and their success, and ideas for future practices. Age, gender, role in the OR, and experience were collected, and survey responses were analyzed with use of descriptive statistics and testing for response differences by group. The survey responses of 190 individuals revealed that more than 80 % of respondents were unaware of institutional policies for OR sustainability despite most respondents having &gt; 11 years of experience in the OR. If they were aware of sustainability policies, most respondents indicated that the energy saving programs and policies involving recycling and waste reduction were not implemented successfully and could be altered for more efficient use. Most respondents (92 %) indicated that they were willing to adopt new practices to achieve waste reduction in the OR, though one’s role in the OR appeared to influence these findings. Staff willingness to improve OR sustainability may enable the development of education and policies that support institution-scale change.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100191"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143792102","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Advanced nanotheranostic approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma management","authors":"Sachin Kothawade ,&nbsp;Vijaya Padwal,&nbsp;Pranav Lodha,&nbsp;Vishal Pande","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100188","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100188","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) stands as a formidable global health challenge, particularly in the context of chronic liver diseases, with significant associations to hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol misuse, and metabolic syndrome. The late-stage detection and complex treatment landscape have led to high mortality rates, necessitating innovative solutions. This review explores the emerging field of Nanotheranostics as a potent next-generation approach to combat HCC (Hepatocellular Carcinoma). The conventional diagnostic methods for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) present challenges in early detection, impacting treatment outcomes. Current imaging techniques, relying on criteria like arterial hyper-enhancement and delayed washout, exhibit limited sensitivity. Global variations in early detection rates further complicate therapeutic interventions. Nanotheranostics, an integration of diagnostic and therapeutic functionalities within nanoparticles, emerges as a promising solution. In diagnostics, Nanotheranostics utilizes diverse imaging modalities, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), Positron emission tomography (PET), and optical imaging, providing a comprehensive view of HCC (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) tumors. Targeted imaging agents enhance specificity, enabling early detection without invasive procedures. Nanotheranostics significantly contributes to non-invasive monitoring and staging, offering a precise understanding of tumor heterogeneity and facilitating flexible treatment plans. In therapeutics, Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Systems overcome biological barriers, ensuring efficient and targeted drug delivery. Carefully considering factors like size, shape, stability, biocompatibility, release kinetics, and targeting capabilities in nanoplatform design, the review emphasizes passive targeting effects and explores active targeting strategies using ligands. Combination therapy emerges as a potent strategy in Nanotheranostics, with observed synergistic effects in various drug combinations. Integration of immunotherapies like Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab with conventional drugs showcases promising results, with the STRIDE regimen and atezolizumab-bevacizumab becoming front-line standards. Nanotheranostics facilitates combination therapy, enhancing outcomes by addressing the complexities of HCC (Hepatocellular Carcinoma). Nanotheranostics represents a paradigm shift in HCC management, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities, precise monitoring, and innovative therapeutic interventions. Its ability to integrate multiple approaches within a single nanoplatform holds promise for improving patient outcomes in the challenging HCC landscape. This review underscores the urgent need for continued research and development in Nanotheranostics to harness its full potential in tackling Hepatocellular Carcinoma.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100188"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143785743","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The role of obesity-risk perception and gender differences in colorectal cancer screening among eligible adults in the United States","authors":"Ogochukwu Juliet Ezeigwe ,&nbsp;Manali Desai ,&nbsp;Olajumoke Ope Oladoyin ,&nbsp;Ogochukwu Ruth Abasilim ,&nbsp;Samuel Tobi Tundealao ,&nbsp;Odinakachukwu Ogechi Dimgba ,&nbsp;Temitope Rotimi Mamukuyomi ,&nbsp;Maria E. Fernandez","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100194","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100194","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is crucial in reducing the associated morbidity and mortality. Our study aims to assess the association between obesity-cancer risk perception and the uptake of CRC screening among eligible adults in the United States. Additionally, we explored the variation of association stratified by gender. We analyzed data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 2018–2020. We performed descriptive statistics, bivariable, and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Of the 6435 overweight and obese US adults ≥ 45 years, 69 % (n = 4970) performed CRC screening. Approximately 85.4 % (n = 3243) of participants who believed that obesity increased the risk of cancer were screened. Perceived risk of obesity-related cancer was associated with 35 % significantly higher odds of screening (cOR:1.35,95 %CI:1.03–1.75). When compared to participants with no insurance, participants with health insurance had significantly higher odds of undergoing CRC screening (aOR:4.41,95 %CI:1.87–10.40). Non-Hispanic Black individuals had significantly higher odds of CRC screening compared to non-Hispanic White individuals (aOR: 2.17, 95 % CI: 1.04–4.51). For every one-year increase in age, there is an 11 % increase in screening (aOR:1.11,95 %Cl:1.07–1.16). There was no significant difference in CRC screening rates between males and females. Non-Hispanic Black females had significantly higher adjusted odds of CRC screening (aOR:3.17, 95 %CI:1.23–8.19) compared to non-Hispanic White females. Female college graduates had significantly higher odds of screening when compared to high school graduates (aOR:2.86,95 %CI:1.07–7.61). When compared to males who are non-smokers, former smokers had significantly higher odds of undergoing CRC screening (aOR:2.97,95 %CI:1.19–7.45). Male homosexuals/gay/lesbian when compared to heterosexual/straight males had significantly higher odds to be screened for CRC (aOR: 10.17,95 % CI:1.13–91.10). This study provided essential insights that help bridge gaps in cancer disparities, revealing that race/ethnicity and insurance status significantly impact CRC screening uptake. Health promotion programs should implement tailored interventions that emphasize perceived susceptibility to obesity and consider gender-specific factors to increase CRC screening rates.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100194"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143776420","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Methamphetamine use among substance use disorder treatment populations","authors":"Eniola Olatunji ,&nbsp;Dalton James Bally ,&nbsp;Oluwaseun Oke ,&nbsp;Terence Tumenta ,&nbsp;Ulunma Natalie Umesi ,&nbsp;Vaibhav Vyas ,&nbsp;Stanley Nkemjika","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100192","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100192","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Recent data shows a sharp rise in methamphetamine use, particularly among specific racial and ethnic groups, with higher rates in males and certain age groups, alongside varying impacts based on education and income levels. Till date, there remains dearth in the literature among New York State population. This study examined the sociodemographic factors associated with methamphetamine use and its impact on treatment outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>The Treatment Episode Dataset-Discharge (TEDS-D) from 2016 to 2020 were analyzed to investigate methamphetamine use, focusing on demographic variables. The analysis involved descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, and bivariate chi-square tests to explore relationships, as well as bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. All statistical analyses were conducted using SAS 9.4.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>10.84 % of participants were aged 12–24 years, while gender indicated a predominance of males, representing 73.44 % of the study population. Rehab patients have statistically significantly higher odds of methamphetamine use as than patients in Ambulatory/ Intensive Outpatient treatment (Adj OR- 1.21; 95 % CI- 1.15,1.26), while Detox patients have lower odds of using methamphetamine as than patients in Ambulatory, Intensive Outpatient treatment, however this was not statistically significant (Adj OR-0.35; 95 % CI- 0.11, 1.10). Intravenous drugs have 1.5 times higher odds of methamphetamine use as than non-intravenous drug use (Adj OR- 1.5; 95 % CI - 1.42, 1.54).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The study identified significant sociodemographic differences influencing methamphetamine use and treatment outcomes among this population. Addressing these factors with focused, culturally sensitive, and socio-economically mindful interventions can improve treatment effectiveness and aid recovery across diverse groups.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100192"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143776419","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Addressing the unregulated use of nitrous oxide canisters","authors":"R. Andrew Yockey","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100190","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100190","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The recreational misuse of nitrous oxide has been increasing globally, with reports showing a rise from 10 % in 2015 to 20 % in 2021. In the United States, misuse has been steadily rising since 2010, and from 2023 to 2024, there was a 58 % increase in intentional nitrous oxide exposure reports. Small canisters marketed under names such as Galaxy Gas are often sold with minimal regulation, contributing to health risks, including oxygen deprivation, neurological damage, and even death. Nitrous oxide abuse can cause hypoxia, dizziness, unconsciousness, nerve damage, cognitive impairments, and fatal asphyxiation. The lack of regulation in its sale—especially for non-industrial and non-culinary purposes—has facilitated its widespread recreational use. Current legislation is insufficient, with loopholes allowing easy access, especially for young people. Stricter regulations, including age restrictions, licensing, and enhanced monitoring of online sales, are necessary to address this growing public health issue.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100190"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143759108","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Amelanotic melanoma: Diagnostic challenges, treatment innovations, and the emerging role of in early detection","authors":"Diala Ra’Ed Kamal Kakish ,&nbsp;Jehad Feras AlSamhori ,&nbsp;Ahmad Ayman ,&nbsp;Mohammed Al-Sawalha ,&nbsp;Talin Hijazeen ,&nbsp;Ruchira Clementina ,&nbsp;Romaisa Ahmed ,&nbsp;Noor Masadeh ,&nbsp;Mohammad Al-Zuriqat ,&nbsp;Amina Yahya Mohammed ,&nbsp;Walid Al kurdi ,&nbsp;Abdulqadir J. Nashwan","doi":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100189","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100189","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Amelanotic melanoma (AM) is a rare, yet aggressive melanoma subtype often overlooked due to its minimal pigmentation and atypical presentations. Conventional diagnostic tools, such as the “ABCDE” criteria and dermoscopy, frequently fail to detect AM in early stages, leading to delayed diagnoses and advanced disease. Advanced imaging techniques like reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) have improved detection accuracy, but underdiagnosis remains a significant challenge. Recent molecular insights, including TERT promoter mutations and BRAF/KIT alterations, have refined risk stratification and guided personalized treatments. However, immunoresistance and diagnostic complexity continue to hinder outcomes in advanced cases. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers transformative potential by addressing these gaps through its ability to analyze subtle vascular and morphological patterns often missed by clinicians. When integrated with molecular diagnostics, AI enables earlier detection, precise staging, and tailored therapeutic strategies. For instance, AI-powered tools can incorporate genetic and imaging data to predict treatment responses and optimize patient selection. Emerging approaches, such as SPION-functionalized CAR-T cells, liquid biopsies, and multimodal AI tools, promise further advancements in diagnostic precision and treatment efficacy. This review highlights the importance of combining AI with molecular diagnostics to achieve more precise, personalized, and equitable care for AM. Collaborative efforts among dermatologists and oncologists, and data scientists are essential to translate these innovations into practice and address disparities in outcomes for this challenging melanoma subtype.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100804,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health","volume":"6 ","pages":"Article 100189"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143783859","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}