Primary Ηypoparathyroidism in a Patient With Sarcoidosis: A Case Report.

Sarcoidosis is a complex, multisystem granulomatous disorder with a variable clinical presentation, commonly involving the lungs but potentially affecting any organ system. This case report describes a rare occurrence of primary hypoparathyroidism coexisting with sarcoidosis in a 45-year-old male patient. The patient presented with a chronic cough and progressive breathlessness. Diagnostic imaging and histopathological evaluation confirmed stage 1 sarcoidosis, characterized by non-caseating granulomas and elevated angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) levels. Surprisingly, the patient also exhibited significant hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and low parathyroid hormone levels, which led to the diagnosis of primary hypoparathyroidism, an unusual finding in the context of sarcoidosis. The patient was treated with corticosteroids for sarcoidosis and calcium supplementation for hypocalcemia, resulting in symptom resolution and normalization of biochemical parameters. This case highlights the importance of considering multiple endocrine disorders, such as hypoparathyroidism, in patients with sarcoidosis, especially when calcium dysregulation is observed. The coexistence of these conditions presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

Monkeypox: A Growing Concern for Pulmonary Health.

The re-emergence of monkeypox as a significant global health concern has highlighted the need to reassess its clinical presentation, particularly its impact on pulmonary health. Traditionally associated with dermatological symptoms, recent outbreaks in non-endemic regions have underscored the virus's potential for widespread transmission and respiratory complications. Emerging evidence indicates that monkeypox infection can lead to respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and, in severe cases, pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The virus's capacity for respiratory transmission, coupled with the potential for coinfection with other respiratory pathogens, poses significant challenges for clinical management. Understanding the pathophysiology of monkeypox's impact on the lungs, which may involve direct viral invasion and immune-mediated damage, is critical for developing effective public health strategies. As monkeypox continues to spread, recognizing and addressing its respiratory complications will be essential in mitigating severe outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations with pre-existing pulmonary conditions.

Artificial Intelligence in Predicting the Mode of Delivery: A Systematic Review.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into obstetric care offers significant potential to enhance clinical decision-making and optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes. Traditional prediction methods for mode of delivery often rely on subjective clinical judgment and limited statistical models, which may not fully capture complex patient data. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current state of research on AI applications in predicting the mode of delivery, comparing the performance of AI models with traditional methods, and identifying gaps for future research. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, covering publications from January 2010 to July 2024. Inclusion criteria were studies employing AI techniques to predict the mode of delivery, published in peer-reviewed journals, and involving human subjects. Studies were assessed for quality using the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST), and data were synthesized narratively due to heterogeneity. In total, 18 studies met the inclusion criteria, employing various AI models such as logistic regression, random forest, gradient boosting, and neural networks. Sample sizes ranged from 40 to 94,480 participants across diverse geographic settings. AI models demonstrated high accuracy rates, often exceeding 90%, and strong predictive metrics (area under the curve (AUC) values from 0.745 to 0.932). Key predictors included maternal age, gravidity, parity, gestational age, labor induction type, and fetal weight. Notable models like the Adana System and Categorical Boosting (CatBoost, Yandex LLC, Moscow, Russia) highlighted the effectiveness of AI in enhancing prediction accuracy and supporting clinical decisions. AI models significantly outperform traditional statistical methods in predicting the mode of delivery, providing a robust tool for obstetric care. Future research should focus on standardizing data collection, improving model interpretability, addressing ethical concerns, and ensuring fairness in AI predictions to enhance clinical trust and application.

Impact of Climate Change on Reproductive Health and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review.

Climate change has emerged as a significant global health challenge, with growing evidence linking environmental factors to adverse reproductive health outcomes. The primary objective of this review is to assess the effects of climate change-driven environmental factors, such as air pollution and temperature extremes, on reproductive health outcomes, including fertility rates, miscarriage, preterm birth, and congenital anomalies. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science was conducted until July 2024. Studies included in the review were observational, experimental, and randomized controlled trials that reported quantitative data on reproductive outcomes in relation to climate-related environmental exposures. A total of 49 studies were selected for qualitative synthesis. The review found that increased exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5), extreme temperatures, and proximity to traffic were consistently associated with reduced fertility, increased risks of miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Adverse effects were particularly pronounced among vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women of lower socioeconomic status and those living in disaster-prone areas. The studies also highlighted potential transgenerational effects, with prenatal exposure to environmental stressors influencing the long-term health of offspring. The findings underscore the urgent need for public health interventions and policies to mitigate environmental exposures that negatively impact reproductive health. Future research should focus on longitudinal and interventional studies to establish causal relationships and inform effective public health strategies.

Hepatopulmonary Syndrome in a Patient With Autoimmune Hepatitis Without Liver Cirrhosis: A Case Report.

Intrapulmonary vasodilation leads to impaired arterial oxygenation, a hallmark of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS), a common pulmonary complication in end-stage liver disease. We present a case of HPS primarily diagnosed due to orthodeoxia in a 62-year-old ex-smoker with autoimmune hepatitis, under immunosuppressive treatment, but without liver cirrhosis. The patient reported dyspnea at rest that improved when supine. A recent chest CT scan showed no pulmonary embolism but indicated small nodules, bronchiectasis, and emphysema lesions. Functional breath monitoring revealed a low diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (48% predicted). Blood gas analysis showed an increased alveolar-arterial difference, and contrast-enhanced echocardiography confirmed HPS with bubbles in the left heart chambers after the fourth cardiac cycle. Lung perfusion scintigraphy was negative for thromboembolic disease, but kidney imaging reinforced the HPS diagnosis. Our case is, to the best of our knowledge, the first presentation of HPS in a patient with autoimmune hepatitis without evidence of liver cirrhosis. This case highlights a rare instance of HPS in a patient with autoimmune hepatitis without liver cirrhosis, where orthodeoxia was the first clinical manifestation.

Artificial Intelligence for Smoking Cessation in Pregnancy.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a revolutionary tool in various healthcare domains, including smoking cessation among pregnant women. Smoking during pregnancy is a significant public health concern, linked to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Traditional cessation methods have had limited success, necessitating innovative approaches. AI offers personalized interventions, predictive analytics, and real-time support, enhancing the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs. This editorial explores the potential of AI in transforming smoking cessation efforts for pregnant women, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and future prospects. By integrating AI into healthcare strategies, we can improve maternal and fetal health outcomes and contribute to the broader public health goal of reducing smoking rates among expectant mothers.

Miliary TB and COVID-19 Coinfection in a Patient With a History of Post-polycythemia Vera Myelofibrosis Treated With Ruxolitinib: A Case Report.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis (TB), a major public health issue. This case report discusses a 70-year-old female with post-polycythemia vera myelofibrosis (post-PV MF) treated with ruxolitinib who developed miliary TB amidst a COVID-19 infection. The patient presented with a flu-like syndrome over the past week with fatigue and weight loss the last month. When she was admitted to the hospital, the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was positive. Despite the typical COVID-19 presentation, her clinical and radiographic features raised suspicion for disseminated TB. Diagnostic tests, including bronchoscopy and PCR for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, confirmed miliary TB. She was treated with a standard antitubercular regimen, leading to symptomatic improvement. The interplay between COVID-19 and TB is complex, with COVID-19-induced immunosuppression, particularly lymphocytopenia, facilitating TB reactivation. Additionally, ruxolitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor used for myelofibrosis, impairs immune defense mechanisms, increasing infection risk, including TB. Prompt and accurate diagnosis of TB in the context of COVID-19 is crucial for effective management and improved patient outcomes. Clinicians should remain vigilant for TB reactivation in patients undergoing treatments such as ruxolitinib and consider alternative diagnoses despite positive SARS-CoV-2 tests. This report highlights the necessity for a comprehensive evaluation and timely intervention to mitigate the compounded risks of COVID-19 and TB.

Sarcoid-Like Reactions in Breast Cancer Patients: A Report of Two Cases.

Sarcoid-like reactions (SLR) in patients with malignancies are a relatively common finding. Defined by the presence of non-caseating granulomas, SLR does not meet the clinical criteria for classic sarcoidosis. In cancer patients, SLR often presents a challenging differential diagnosis, as it must be distinguished from disease progression due to malignancy. We present two cases of SLRs associated with breast cancer, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance among physicians. SLR should always be considered a potential diagnosis in these patients, with histological confirmation being essential for accurate identification.

Integrating Pulmonary Health and Maternal Care: Bridging Gaps for Optimal Respiratory Outcomes in Pregnancy and Beyond.

The integration of pulmonary health and maternal care is critical for ensuring optimal respiratory outcomes for both mothers and their infants. Pregnancy induces significant physiological changes in the respiratory system, increasing the risk of pulmonary complications and exacerbating conditions such as asthma. This editorial emphasizes the necessity for collaborative care between pulmonologists and midwives to manage these challenges effectively. By working together, healthcare providers can develop comprehensive care plans that address potential respiratory issues early, monitor and manage chronic conditions, and provide vigilant postpartum care. Enhanced education and interdisciplinary training for both professions are essential for bridging the gaps in care and improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This integrated approach is supported by research demonstrating the benefits of coordinated care models in reducing complications and promoting better health outcomes.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Combatting Respiratory Tract Infections.

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and COVID-19 are significant global health concerns due to their high morbidity and mortality rates. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) offers innovative solutions across various aspects of RTI management, including diagnosis, prediction, treatment, and prevention. AI algorithms enhance diagnostic accuracy by analyzing extensive data from electronic health records and imaging studies, often surpassing human radiologists in identifying diseases such as pneumonia. For instance, AI-based image recognition tools have demonstrated remarkable precision in detecting pneumonia from chest X-rays. Additionally, AI models can predict disease outbreaks and optimize public health responses, as exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic where AI predicted infection hotspots and evaluated the effectiveness of containment measures. In personalized medicine, AI tailors treatments based on individual patient profiles, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes and accelerating drug discovery. Wearable AI devices facilitate early detection and prevention of RTIs through continuous health monitoring. Despite its transformative potential, AI implementation in healthcare faces challenges, including data privacy, algorithm transparency, and ethical concerns. Addressing these issues necessitates collaboration among technologists, healthcare providers, and policymakers to ensure responsible and equitable integration of AI technologies. This editorial underscores the transformative potential of AI in managing RTIs and calls for robust frameworks to harness AI's benefits while safeguarding patient rights.

Efficacy of Tixagevimab/Cilgavimab as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis against Infection from SARS-CoV-2 and Severe COVID-19 among Heavily Immunocompromised Patients: A Single-Center, Prospective, Real-World Study.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 continues to pose a threat to immunocompromised individuals, even with vaccination. The monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) tixagevimab/cilgavimab (TXG/CIL) provide targeted prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2 with the benefit of a prolonged half-life. Although approved for COVID-19 prevention, there is limited data on their effectiveness among heavily immunocompromised populations. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, observational study at Laiko General Hospital, Athens, Greece, from August to December 2022 to investigate the efficacy of TXG/CIL as a form of pre-exposure prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients. Data on breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infections were collected over a six-month follow-up period. RESULTS: Of the 375 participants (mean age 61.3 ± 14.1 years; 59.7% male), 76 (20.3%) developed breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infections, with an incidence of 3.81 cases/100 patient months. Hospitalization was required for 21 patients (5.6%), with a median stay of 14 days. Seven deaths were recorded, with only one attributed to COVID-19. Previous infection (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26-0.82) and hybrid immunity (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.29-0.92) can protect against new infection. Solid organ malignancy significantly increased the risk of severe outcomes among those infected (OR 7.4, 95% CI 2.2-24.7, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: TXG/CIL provides effective prophylaxis against COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients. Future strategies should focus on developing new mAb combinations to address emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and protect vulnerable populations.

Foreign Body in the Tracheobronchial Tree as a Cause of Hemoptysis in an Adult Without Risk Factors for Aspiration: A Case Report.

Although aspiration of a foreign body into the trachea and bronchi can occur in all age groups, it is more common in infants and young children. Foreign bodies in the tracheobronchial tree are uncommon in adults and mainly present in patients with dysphagia and an altered level of consciousness. The identification of foreign bodies in the tracheobronchial tree is frequently overlooked or delayed, leading patients to present later with chronic symptoms and potential complications. These complications may include persistent coughing, wheezing, obstructive pneumonitis, bronchiectasis, and abscess formation secondary to recurrent pulmonary infections. This article aims to present the case of a 27-year-old patient without risk factors for aspiration who has experienced recurrent self-limiting hemoptysis episodes for five years. Bronchoscopy revealed a foreign body at the entrance to the middle lobe bronchus. The presence of a foreign body in the tracheobronchial tree should be considered in any patient with recurrent hemoptysis. Bronchoscopy leads to accurate diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of complications.

Comparison of pulmonary and small airways function between idiopathic inflammatory myopathies patients with and without interstitial lung disease.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate pulmonary and small airway function in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) and make comparisons between patients with and without interstitial lung disease (ILD). METHODS: Newly diagnosed IIM patients with and without ILD determined by high resolution computed tomography were included in the study. Pulmonary and small airway function was assessed by spirometry, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), body plethysmography, single and multiple breath nitrogen washout, impulse oscillometry and measurement of respiratory resistance by the interrupter technique (Rint) using the Q-box system. We used discrepancies between lung volumes measured by multiple breath nitrogen washout and body plethysmography to evaluate for small airway dysfunction. RESULTS: Study cohort comprised of 26 IIM patients, 13 with and 13 without ILD. IIM-ILD patients presented more frequently with dyspnoea, fever, arthralgias and positive anti-synthetase antibodies, compared to IIM patients without ILD. Classic spirometric parameters and most lung physiology parameters assessing small airway function did not differ between the two groups. Predicted total lung capacity and residual volume (TLCN2WO, RVN2WO) measured by multiple breath nitrogen washout and the TLCN2WO/TLCpleth ratio were significantly lower in IIM-ILD patients compared to those without ILD (mean: 111.1% vs. 153.4%, p=0.034, median: 171% vs. 210%, p=0.039 and median: 1.28 vs. 1.45, p=0.039, respectively). Rint tended to be higher among IIM-ILD patients (mean:100.5% vs. 76.6%, p=0.053). CONCLUSIONS: Discrepancies between lung volumes measured by multiple breath nitrogen washout and body plethysmography in IIM-ILD patients indicate an early small airways dysfunction in these patients.

Splenic Rupture in an Elective Cesarean Section: A Possible Iatrogenic Event.

A rare case of an unexpected iatrogenic splenic rupture during a cesarean section is reported. The trauma was recognized early and treated conservatively without delay; thus, further complications were avoided. A 28-year-old woman with a history of previous cesarean sections was submitted for an elective cesarean section. Intra-operatively, minor bleeding from the left abdomen was noted and eventually assigned to an inferior pole splenic trauma treated conservatively without splenectomy. Although unclear, the injury was considered iatrogenic, probably due to the abdominal pressure for fetal delivery and the anatomy of the splenocolic ligament. This case highlights the clinical suspicion that is required despite routine surgical procedures for the early diagnosis of an unexpected splenic rupture when minor bleeding occurs intra-operatively from the upper abdomen. Early recognition and prompt treatment are of paramount importance for the safety of the fetus and the patient.

Meeting at the Crossroad between Obesity and Hepatic Carcinogenesis: Unique Pathophysiological Pathways Raise Expectations for Innovative Therapeutic Approaches.

The escalating global prevalence of obesity and its intricate association with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pose a substantial challenge to public health. Obesity, acknowledged as a pervasive epidemic, is linked to an array of chronic diseases, including HCC, catalyzing the need for a comprehensive understanding of its molecular underpinnings. Notably, HCC has emerged as a leading malignancy with rising incidence and mortality. The transition from viral etiologies to the prominence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)-related HCC underscores the urgent need to explore the intricate molecular pathways linking obesity and hepatic carcinogenesis. This review delves into the interwoven landscape of molecular carcinogenesis in the context of obesity-driven HCC while also navigating using the current therapeutic strategies and future prospects for combating obesity-related HCC. We underscore the pivotal role of obesity as a risk factor and propose an integrated approach encompassing lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and the exploration of emerging targeted therapies. As the obesity-HCC nexus continues to challenge healthcare systems globally, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular mechanisms and innovative therapeutic strategies is imperative to alleviate the rising burden of this dual menace.

Effectiveness of Oral Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir vs. Intravenous Three-Day Remdesivir in Preventing Progression to Severe COVID-19: A Single-Center, Prospective, Comparative, Real-Life Study.

BACKGROUND: Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (NMV/r) and three-day course remdesivir (3RDV) have been approved as early treatments for COVID-19 outpatients not requiring supplemental oxygen. Real-life data on the efficacy of antivirals among immunocompromised patients or directly comparing their effectiveness in preventing hospitalization and/or death are scarce. METHODS: Prospective, observational study conducted in a tertiary care hospital, from 1 January 2022 until 15 March 2023, during the prevalence of the Omicron variant. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to account for differences between treatment groups. RESULTS: We included 521, mainly immunocompromised (56%), patients in our analysis; 356 (68.3%) received 3RDV and 165 (31.7%) NMV/r. Overall, 15/521 (2.9%) patients met the primary end-point of hospitalization at 30 days (3RDV arm: 10/356, 2.8% vs. NMV/r arm: 5/165, 3%, p = 1). On IPTW-adjusted univariable analysis, the choice of treatment did not affect outcomes. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, we found that one (OR 0.26, 95%CI 0.07-0.99, p = 0.049) or two (OR 0.06, 95%CI 0.01-0.55, p = 0.014) vaccine booster shots reduced the risk for adverse outcomes. CONCLUSION: In our patient population of high-risk, mainly immunocompromised, vaccinated patients during the prevalence of the Omicron variant, NMV/r and 3RDV were equally effective early treatments for the prevention of hospitalization and/or death.

Physiopathological mechanisms related to inflammation in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Overweight, obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus pose global health problems that are ever-increasing. A chronic low-grade inflammatory status and the presence of various pro-inflammatory markers either in circulation or within dysfunctional metabolic tissues are well established. The presence of these factors can, to some extent, predict disease development and progression. A central role is played by the presence of dysfunctional adipose tissue, liver dysfunction, and skeletal muscle dysfunction, which collectively contribute to the increased circulatory levels of proinflammatory factors. Weight loss and classical metabolic interventions achieve a decrease in many of these factors' circulating levels, implying that a better understanding of the processes or even the modulation of inflammation may alleviate these diseases. This review suggests that inflammation plays a significant role in the development and progression of these conditions and that measuring inflammatory markers may be useful for assessing disease risk and development of future treatment methods.

Giant Ulcerated Fibroepithelial Stromal Polyp of the Vulva: A Case Report.

Fibroepithelial stromal polyps (FEPs) are benign skin tumors or lesions of mesenchymal and ectodermal origin, also referred to as acrochordons. Herein, we report the case of a 45-year-old woman with a large ulcerated fibroepithelial stromal polyp extending from the right labium of the vulva. No known predisposing factor was recorded to justify the presence and rapid growth of the polyp. Antibiotic treatment was given due to inflammation, and magnetic resonance imaging was useful in establishing a diagnosis. A wide surgical excision was performed, and a histopathological examination confirmed the initial diagnosis, revealing no nuclear atypia or mitoses. The patient recovered well, and follow-up after one year showed no evidence of complications or recurrence.

Implications of obesity and adiposopathy on respiratory infections; focus on emerging challenges.

Obesity is characterized by excessive adipose tissue accumulation, which impacts physiological, metabolic, and immune functions. Several respiratory infections, including bacterial pneumonia, influenza, and coronavirus disease 2019, appear to be linked to unfavorable results in individuals with obesity. These may be attributed to the direct mechanical/physiological effects of excess body fat on the lungs' function. Notably, adipose tissue dysfunction is associated with a low-grade chronic inflammatory status and hyperleptinemia, among other characteristics. These have all been linked to immune system dysfunction and weakened immune responses to these infections. A better understanding and clinical awareness of these risk factors are necessary for better disease outcomes.

Corrigendum: Post-COVID-19 interstitial lung disease: Insights from a machine learning radiographic model.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1083264.].