Gavriela Voulgaridou, Fani Athanassiou, Eirini Kravvariti, Stephania Doulgeraki, Sousana K Papadopoulou, Lambros E Kokokiris
{"title":"Knowledge and Predictors of Vitamin D Awareness Among Greek Women: A Cross-Sectional Study.","authors":"Gavriela Voulgaridou, Fani Athanassiou, Eirini Kravvariti, Stephania Doulgeraki, Sousana K Papadopoulou, Lambros E Kokokiris","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020058","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020058","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health, calcium absorption, and immune function, yet significant misconceptions and knowledge gaps persist. This study aimed to assess knowledge regarding vitamin D among Greek women and identify factors associated with vitamin D knowledge.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted among 761 Greek women (mean age: 41.2 ± 7.7 years) using an online self-administered questionnaire designed in Google Forms. Participants were recruited via social media platforms to ensure a geographically diverse sample.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Overall, 57.4% of participants demonstrated knowledge of vitamin D's functions, primarily linking it to bone health (34.4%) and immune function (26.8%). The multiple regression model identified significant predictors of knowledge of vitamin D's functions, including age (OR = 1.041, 95% CI: 1.019-1.062, <i>p</i> < 0.001), weight (OR = 0.964, 95% CI: 0.938-0.992, <i>p</i> = 0.010), and frequent vitamin D testing (>2 times: OR = 2.280, 95% CI: 1.392-3.736, <i>p</i> = 0.001; once-twice: OR = 1.776, 95% CI: 1.111-2.829, <i>p</i> = 0.016). Furthermore, age (OR = 1.054, 95% CI: 1.027-1.081, <i>p</i> < 0.001), weight (OR = 0.987, 95% CI: 0.975-0.999, <i>p</i> = 0.028), higher city population (>50,000 citizens: OR = 1.598, 95% CI: 1.021-2.502, <i>p</i> = 0.040), frequent vitamin D testing (>2 times: OR = 2.616, 95% CI: 1.529-4.447, <i>p</i> < 0.003; one-two times: OR = 1.773, 95% CI: 1.052-2.989, <i>p</i> = 0.032), and children's supplementation (OR = 1.414, 95% CI: 1.007-1.987, <i>p</i> = 0.046) were significant predictors of knowledge regarding diseases preventable by vitamin D.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Greek women demonstrated moderate awareness of vitamin D's functions, but significant knowledge gaps persist, particularly regarding its role in calcium absorption and dietary sources. Age, frequent vitamin D testing, and urban residence were significant predictors of knowledge. Targeted public health campaigns are essential to address misconceptions and improve vitamin D awareness and practices.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854788/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494801","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":"Understanding the Burden and Management of Urinary Tract Infections in Women.","authors":"Baiken Baimakhanova, Amankeldi Sadanov, Lyudmila Trenozhnikova, Assya Balgimbaeva, Gul Baimakhanova, Saltanat Orasymbet, Diana Tleubekova, Alma Amangeldi, Zere Turlybaeva, Zhanar Nurgaliyeva, Roza Seisebayeva, Zhanat Kozhekenova, Saltanat Sairankyzy, Zhanserik Shynykul, Sandugash Yerkenova, Aknur Turgumbayeva","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020059","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020059","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a prevalent health concern among the female population, with anatomical and physiological determinants such as a shorter urethra and its proximity to the rectum augmenting vulnerability. The presence of Escherichia coli and various other pathogens plays a significant role in the etiology of these infections, which can be aggravated by sexual intercourse and disturbances to the vaginal microbiome. The physiological alterations associated with pregnancy further elevate the likelihood of UTIs, with untreated cases potentially leading to severe complications such as pyelonephritis, preterm labor, and stillbirth. Furthermore, postmenopausal women encounter an augmented risk of UTIs attributable to estrogen deficiency and vaginal atrophy, as well as conditions including pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence (UI), which hinder optimal bladder functionality. The aforementioned factors, in conjunction with the rising prevalence of cesarean deliveries and catheterization, complicate the management of UTIs. While precise diagnosis is paramount, it remains a formidable challenge, notwithstanding advancements in molecular diagnostic techniques. Management strategies encompass antibiotic-sparing therapies; however, the increasing incidence of multidrug resistance represents an alarming trend. Diverse guidelines from various medical specialties endeavor to standardize treatment approaches, yet significant inconsistencies continue to exist. This study systematically appraises the extant guidelines, evaluating the quality of evidence while identifying areas of agreement and discord to supply practitioners with effective strategies for UTI management.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854091/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143495013","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":"Nutritional Status of Adult People Living with HIV: A Narrative Review.","authors":"Stella Proikaki, Nikolaos Georgiadis, Theodoros N Sergentanis, Eleni Kornarou, Tonia Vassilakou","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020056","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020056","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The interaction between HIV infection, nutrition and immune system functioning is intricate, leading, in many cases, to a cycle of poor health outcomes. Despite the widespread use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) since the late 1990s and the concomitant increase in the life expectancy of people living with HIV (PLHIV), malnutrition and HIV-associated wasting continue to pose significant challenges, particularly in developing countries. Additionally, metabolic adverse effects associated with HAART, such as alterations in bone and lipid metabolism, as well as the impact on cardiovascular health, add further complexity to patient care.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a comprehensive literature review of relevant studies involving adults diagnosed with HIV. The studies, published between 2000 and 2023, were identified using the Medline/PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Accumulating evidence in the literature indicates that careful monitoring and appropriate nutritional interventions can significantly enhance clinical outcomes in malnourished HIV-positive persons. The importance of addressing the prevalent deficiencies in certain micronutrients discussed in many of the studies is clearly underlined. However, challenges remain, particularly in low-income settings, where limited resources and infrastructure can impede effective implementation.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>There are critical research gaps with regard to the interaction between ART and nutrition, as well as the development of tailored nutritional approaches that aim to improve patient outcomes. Future research directions and policy strategies should focus on the development of sustainable programmes aimed at enhancing the quality of life for PLHIV.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854654/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494893","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}
Maria Mentzelou, Sousana K Papadopoulou, Evmorfia Psara, Theophanis Vorvolakos, Constantina Jacovides, Ioanna P Chatziprodromidou, Eleftherios Lechouritis, Maria Mitsiou, Constantinos Giaginis
{"title":"Evaluating the Association of Sociodemographic, Anthropometric, and Lifestyle Factors with Emotional Eating: A Cross-Sectional Study.","authors":"Maria Mentzelou, Sousana K Papadopoulou, Evmorfia Psara, Theophanis Vorvolakos, Constantina Jacovides, Ioanna P Chatziprodromidou, Eleftherios Lechouritis, Maria Mitsiou, Constantinos Giaginis","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020057","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020057","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/objectives: </strong>Emotional eating is an eating behavior that is influenced by behaviors, stress, emotions, and individual feelings in relation to eating. For many decades, studies have shown that mental health is the complex outcome of numerous biological, psychological, and social factors, involving contextual factors beyond the individual.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>The objective of this study is to evaluate the interconnections between emotional eating and sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics and lifestyle factors.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This is a cross-sectional study conducted on 328 adults aged between 18 and 75 years. Relevant questionnaires were utilized to evaluate sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters and types of feeding and the expression of emotional food consumption (The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>According to the analyses above, negative correlations between the emotional eating score and waist circumference and Body Mass Index (BMI) were noted. Furthermore, men were more likely to eat emotionally than women. According to a univariable regression analysis, it was also shown that there was an inverse relationship with age up to 35.92 years and a positive relationship for age > 35.92 years. In addition, an inverse relationship with a decrease in the emotional eating score was found with a BMI up to <49.32 kg/m<sup>2</sup>.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Our findings have emphasized the importance of performing large, prospective, well-designed, randomized, interventional, clinical trials to generate data indicating improvements in eating behavior. Moreover, in future studies the researchers must indicate which assessment tool for emotional eating they will use.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854255/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494862","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 Human Energy Balance: Uncovering the Hidden Variables of Obesity.","authors":"Nikolaos Theodorakis, Maria Nikolaou","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020055","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020055","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Obesity has emerged as a global epidemic, creating an increased burden of weight-related diseases and straining healthcare systems worldwide. While the fundamental principle of energy balance-caloric intake versus expenditure-remains central to weight regulation, real-world outcomes often deviate from simplistic predictions due to a multitude of physiological and environmental factors. Genetic predispositions, variations in basal metabolic rates, adaptive thermogenesis, physical activity, and nutrient losses via fecal and urinary excretion contribute to interindividual differences in energy homeostasis. Additionally, factors such as meal timing, macronutrient composition, gut microbiota dynamics, and diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) further modulate energy utilization and metabolic efficiency. This Perspective explores key physiological determinants of the energy balance, while also highlighting the clinical significance of thrifty versus spendthrifty metabolic phenotypes. Key strategies for individualized weight management include precision calorimetry, circadian-aligned meal timing, the use of protein- and whole food diets to enhance DIT, and increases in non-exercise activity, as well as mild cold exposure and the use of thermogenic agents (e.g., capsaicin-like compounds) to stimulate brown adipose tissue activity. A comprehensive, personalized approach to obesity management that moves beyond restrictive caloric models is essential to achieving sustainable weight control and improving long-term metabolic health. Integrating these multifactorial insights into clinical practice will enhance obesity treatment strategies, fostering more effective and enduring interventions.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854607/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494983","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}
Ana-Maria Gheorghe, Claudiu Nistor, Aurelian-Emil Ranetti, Mara Carsote
{"title":"An Analysis of Primary Hyperparathyroidism in Association with Depression or Anxiety.","authors":"Ana-Maria Gheorghe, Claudiu Nistor, Aurelian-Emil Ranetti, Mara Carsote","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020054","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020054","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Non-classical manifestations such as neuropsychiatric manifestations in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) have long been documented as symptoms of PHPT and are commonly reported by these patients, despite this connection still being a matter of debate, and they (<i>per se</i>) do not represent an indication of parathyroidectomy.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>We aimed to overview the most recent findings regarding the link between depression and/or anxiety (D/A) in subjects confirmed with PHPT, including the impact of the surgery in improving their outcome.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This was a comprehensive review of English-based original studies published between January 2020 and October 2024.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The studies (n = 16) included a total of 10,325 patients and an additional 152,525 patients with hypercalcemia (out of whom 13,136 had a PHPT diagnosis and 45,081 were at risk of PHPT diagnosis). Out of these subjects with PHPT, 10,068 underwent parathyroidectomy. Female prevalence was between 62.5 and 92%. Most individuals were over 50, with the youngest studied population having a mean age of 52.7 ± 13.8 years, and the oldest had a median of 71. Depression was documented based on ICD-10 codes (n = 3) and patients' records (n = 2), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) (n = 2), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) (n = 3), BDI-II (n = 3), Symptom Check List 90-revised (SCL) (n = 1), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) (n = 2), HADS (n = 2), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (n = 1), and European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3-Level Version (EuroQOL-5D-3L) (n = 1). Patient records' (n = 1) and ICD-10 codes (n = 2) were also used for anxiety. Most studies used questionnaires to identify anxiety in PHPT: DASS (n = 2), SCL90R (n = 1), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (n = 1), HADS (n = 2), EuroQOL-5D-3L (n = 1), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (n = 1). Depression prevalence varied from 20-36.6% to 65.7% (scale-based assessment) and to 10.5% upon ICD-10. A rate of newly onset depression was reported of 10.7% and of 0.2% with concern to the prevalent suicidal ideation (an incidental rate of 0.4% after a median follow-up of 4.2 years). Most studies identified a moderate depression (when assessing its severity), affecting approximately one third of the surgery candidates. The prevalence of anxiety in PHPT varied between 10.4% and 38.6% (n = 8). Discordant results were generated when applying distinct questionnaires for the same population, and this might come as a potential bias. Other confounding factors are generated by the sub-population referred for surgery that typically displays a more severe parathyroid condition or non-endocrine overlapping conditions (e.g., related to the social or familial status).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The modern approach of the patient with PHPT should be complex and go beyond the traditional frame. D/A had a high prevalence in the mentioned studies","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854137/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494336","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}
Aris Kaltsas, Timoleon Giannakas, Marios Stavropoulos, Zisis Kratiras, Michael Chrisofos
{"title":"Oxidative Stress in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Mechanisms, Clinical Relevance and Therapeutic Perspectives.","authors":"Aris Kaltsas, Timoleon Giannakas, Marios Stavropoulos, Zisis Kratiras, Michael Chrisofos","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020053","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020053","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background/objectives: </strong>Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is among the most common conditions affecting men as they age, resulting in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) that can profoundly impact quality of life. While historically attributed primarily to androgenic imbalances, current evidence implicates additional factors-particularly oxidative stress (OS) and chronic inflammation-in BPH pathogenesis. This review aims to synthesize research on the interplay between OS, inflammation, and hormonal regulation in BPH, emphasizing their clinical relevance and potential therapeutic implications.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted focusing on mechanistic studies, clinical trials, and observational reports. Searches included data on ROS generation, antioxidant capacity, inflammatory mediators, and their contribution to pathological prostatic overgrowth. Potential interventions targeting OS-such as antioxidant supplementation, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin D receptor agonists, and phytotherapeutics-were also evaluated for their efficacy and safety profiles.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Chronic inflammation and OS were consistently identified within hyperplastic prostate tissue. Excessive ROS production, diminished antioxidant defense, and sustained cytokine release create a proproliferative and antiapoptotic environment, accelerating disease progression. Metabolic comorbidities (e.g., obesity, insulin resistance) further exacerbate these imbalances. Standard therapies (α-blockers and 5-ARIs) effectively relieve symptoms but do not directly address the oxidative-inflammatory axis. Emerging evidence suggests that pharmacological and dietary approaches targeting OS and inflammation may reduce prostate volume expansion and alleviate LUTS.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Findings indicate that OS and inflammation are key contributors to BPH progression. Incorporating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory strategies alongside conventional treatments holds promise for improving clinical outcomes and patient quality of life. Future research should focus on validating OS-specific biomarkers and optimizing personalized therapy regimens.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854834/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494920","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":"Clinical Impact of Olaparib for Platinum-Sensitive Recurrent Ovarian Cancer.","authors":"Hiroaki Ishida, Megumi Manrai, Akiko Takashima, Hiroki Egashira, Mizuki Nonaka, Hideaki Shimada","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020051","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020051","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background/Objectives</b>: Olaparib, a poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibitor, has been effective in prolonging progression-free survival in platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer. The clinicopathological factors that predict a favorable prognosis remain unclear. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed the prognostic effect of clinicopathological factors in the patients treated with olaparib for platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer. <b>Methods</b>: A total of 16 patients were treated with olaparib from 2018 to 2023. We categorized these patients into the responder (five cases who had not relapsed within 2 years) and non-responder groups (11 cases who had relapsed within 2 years). Clinical factors, including age, number of platinum drug courses, platinum-free interval, and CA125 value before olaparib treatment, were compared between the responder and non-responder groups. <b>Results</b>: The age of the responder group was significantly younger than that of the non-responder group (52 vs. 69 years old, <i>p</i> = 0.02). The CA125 value of the responder group was significantly lower than that of the non-responder group (14.2 vs. 82.7 U/mL, <i>p</i> = 0.02). <b>Conclusions</b>: The good predictive factors that enabled continued olaparib administration without recurrence were younger age and a lower CA125 value before olaparib treatment. The younger group (<65 years old) and the low CA125 value group (<20 U/mL) in PSR may be treated with olaparib for a long period, suppressing disease progression. Providing this information to patients with PSR may help in decision-making regarding performing maintenance therapy with olaparib.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854284/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494665","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":"Occurrence of Metabolic Disorders in Bilateral Primary Aldosteronism Compared to Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism.","authors":"Chiara Grasselli, Maicol Baldini, Lucia Salvi, Grazia Vestita, Maurizio Zizzo, Davide Felaco, Maria Carolina Balli, Giulia Besutti, Aurelio Negro, Angelo Ghirarduzzi","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020052","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020052","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common comorbidity associated with hypertension that occurs more often in primary aldosteronism (PA). Our work aims to investigate the prevalence of MetS and its determinants in unilateral PA and bilateral PA, as confirmed by adrenal venous sampling (AVS).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study. We investigated metabolic indicators in 160 cases of PA, categorized by AVS-82 with unilateral PA and 78 with bilateral PA. A control group of 80 non-PA patients with essential hypertension, matched for age and sex, was also included.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Unilateral PA had a higher aldosterone-renin ratio and lower serum potassium levels than bilateral PA. Nevertheless, bilateral PA exhibited a higher prevalence of MetS (41% vs. 30.5%; <i>p</i> = 0.001), obesity, BMI, LDL hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia than unilateral PA.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Bilateral PA presents a greater incidence of MetS than unilateral PA, in spite of the latter showing a higher aldosterone-renin ratio and lower serum potassium levels. The results suggest that the mechanisms underlying MetS may differ between unilateral and bilateral PA.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854144/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494901","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}
María-Luisa Sobrín-Valbuena, Alberto Aldana-Caballero, Laura Martín-Casado, Inés Palomo-Fernández, Raquel Mayordomo, Félix Marcos-Tejedor
{"title":"Clinical Resolution of Plantar Warts Using the Needling Technique.","authors":"María-Luisa Sobrín-Valbuena, Alberto Aldana-Caballero, Laura Martín-Casado, Inés Palomo-Fernández, Raquel Mayordomo, Félix Marcos-Tejedor","doi":"10.3390/diseases13020050","DOIUrl":"10.3390/diseases13020050","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), are a common skin condition characterized by painful lesions on the soles of the feet. These lesions can significantly impact skin appearance, quality of life, and, in severe cases, mobility. Traditional treatment methods, such as chemical cauterization or pharmaceutical therapies, are often painful and require multiple visits to achieve complete wart removal and skin regeneration. This study aims to assess the clinical effectiveness of the needling technique as an alternative treatment. This method involves repeatedly puncturing the lesion under local anesthesia or posterior tibial nerve block to trigger an immune response and promote wart clearance.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 26 patients underwent the needling procedure, which included puncturing the wart under local anesthesia, followed by wound dressing and topical application of iodopovidone to facilitate scab formation. Follow-up visits were scheduled until full wart resolution was observed. Analgesics were provided for moderate pain management when necessary.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>After 30 days, a success rate of 57.7% was achieved. Patients reported mild pain, which subsided within a few days, and expressed high levels of satisfaction with the treatment outcome.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The needling technique emerges as an effective alternative to chemical treatments, offering a notable wart clearance rate. Its use under local anesthesia enhances patient comfort and reduces treatment-associated anxiety compared to conventional therapies.</p>","PeriodicalId":72832,"journal":{"name":"Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)","volume":"13 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11853882/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143494670","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}