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PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA AND PARAGANGLIOMA: CLINICAL PICTURE, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, FOLLOW-UP AND PROGNOSIS - A LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction and aim: Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) are tumors of chromaffin cells. The incidence of this disease is 2 to 8 cases per million. The peak incidence occurs in the 3rd to 5th decade of life. This article aims to review reports on the clinical picture, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up and prognosis of PPGL.
State of knowledge: Excess catecholamines secreted by the tumor can cause symptoms such as headache, sweating, hypertension, heart palpitations, and can also lead to organ damage. The diagnosis of PPGL includes the assessment of the clinical picture, biochemical tests, imaging studies, family history and genetic tests. The first-line test in the diagnosis is the determination of free methoxy-catecholamines concentrations in plasma. Surgical excision is the primary treatment for most localized PPGLs. To minimize the risk of perioperative cardiovascular complications in patients with pheochromocytoma and hormonally active paraganglioma, preoperative adrenergic receptor blockade is recommended. A minimum of 10 years of annual follow-up is recommended for every patient with a resected PPGL. When radical treatment is not possible, the therapeutic goals shift towards slowing down tumor progression and maintaining quality of life. The strongest predictor of a poor prognosis is the presence of metastases at diagnosis.
Conclusions: PPGLs are clinically challenging diagnoses. It is important to evaluate the diagnosis and treatment in a multidisciplinary team. Treatment should be tailored to each patient individually to protect against side effects and ensure a favorable prognosis. Further research is needed to increase the chances of early diagnosis and improve patient outcomes
HOLISTIC APPROACHES TO SMALL INTESTINAL BACTERIAL OVERGROWTH (SIBO): A REVIEW OF DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS AND COMBINED THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES
Background: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a complex gastrointestinal condition defined by excessive bacterial proliferation in the small intestine, often involving colonic species. Its prevalence is increasing, especially among individuals with irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, or gastrointestinal motility disorders. SIBO presents with non-specific symptoms such as bloating, discomfort, and nutrient malabsorption, making diagnosis and treatment particularly challenging.
Methods: This review is based on a narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed literature from 2007 to 2025, retrieved through PubMed and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria focused on diagnostic tools and integrative treatment strategies for SIBO, including antibiotics, diet, phytotherapy, and gut–brain axis modulation. Only high-quality studies were selected.
Results: SIBO is a multifactorial condition driven by motility disturbances, stress, dysbiosis, and anatomical abnormalities. While breath tests remain the most accessible diagnostic tools, their sensitivity is limited. Antibiotics such as rifaximin, metronidazole, and neomycin remain first-line therapy, yet symptom recurrence is common. Increasing attention is given to holistic management, including personalized low-FODMAP diets, herbal antimicrobials, digestive support, and gut–brain axis interventions. Patient-specific approaches, especially those addressing stress, sleep, and microbiota restoration, offer promising outcomes. However, implementation is challenged by inconsistent guidelines, insufficient follow-up, and varying patient adherence.
Conclusion: Effective SIBO management requires early diagnosis and multifaceted treatment strategies that extend beyond temporary microbial suppression. Personalized care integrating diet, microbiota modulation, psychological support, and long-term monitoring may improve outcomes and reduce recurrence. Further research is needed to validate holistic protocols and refine diagnostic criteria
USE OF CANNABINOIDS IN THE TREATMENT OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE: A REVIEW OF CLINICAL AND INTERVENTION STUDIES
Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a general term used to describe a group of chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with complex etiologies. They mainly include Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) .
Purpose of the work: The purpose of this paper is to present current knowledge on the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, with a particular focus on their impact on patient well being.
Material and methods: The study is based on a review of the scientific literature, including clinical and experimental studies on the effects of cannabinoids on the gastrointestinal tract and their use in the treatment of IBD.
Results: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in modulating many physiological processes, including maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, regulation of intestinal function, visceral sensation, modulation of gastrointestinal motility and immunomodulation of inflammation in IBD. Studies have shown that their use leads to a reduction in abdominal pain, emotional distress, stool frequency and anorexia nervosa. They also found higher rates of depression, smoking and alcohol consumption among IBD patients who used cannabis. The long-term safety profile of cannabinoids in IBD patients has not been established.
Summary: Cannabinoids have the potential to be effective supportive therapies for inflammatory bowel disease, but more research is needed to determine their long-term safety and optimal dosage
THE ROLE OF LEGAL ADDICTIVE SUBSTANCES IN SKIN PATHOLOGIES: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction and Objective. The skin not only plays a fundamental role in protecting the body from external factors, but also participates in thermoregulatory, metabolic, immunological and sensory processes. More and more attention is being paid (both in the scientific community and among patients) to the impact of lifestyle, including the use of legal stimulants such as alcohol or products containing nicotine on the condition of the skin. The aim of this paper was to present the current state of knowledge regarding the impact of harmful, easily accessible and legal addictive substances on human skin and also to support an interdisciplinary approach to the prevention and treatment of skin pathologies associated with their use.
Review methods. The research was conducted as a literature review based on information obtained from PubMed, Embase, GoogleScholar using combinations of the following keywords: skin, cigarettes, alcohol, nicotine, lifestyle, substance, abuse, cancer.
The state of knowledge. Biological mechanisms through which alcohol and nicotine (in both traditional and e-cigarette forms) affect the condition of the skin include the induction of oxidative stress, microcirculation disturbances, modulation of the immune response and disruptions in collagen metabolism. These mechanisms influence wound healing, exacerbate the course of inflammatory skin diseases, contribute to the development of neoplastic lesions and accelerate the skin aging process. There are reports of potential therapeutic benefits of nicotine in certain dermatoses. However, researchers point out the methodological limitations in existing studies.
Conclusion. Alcohol and tobacco products have a negative impact on the skin – they disrupt microcirculation, weaken the epidermal barrier, slow down wound healing and accelerate aging. In the context of the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and alternative forms of nicotine consumption, the need for further, well-designed research in this area is emphasized
A REVIEW OF INVASIVE SKIN REJUVENATION METHODS IN AESTHETIC MEDICINE
Invasive skin rejuvenation techniques such as microneedling, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and fractional lasers are gaining popularity in aesthetic medicine. Their action is based on the stimulation of skin repair processes, primarily by stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, improves skin structure and elasticity through controlled mechanical micro-damage. PRP, containing autologous growth factors, supports cellular regeneration and is used both as a monotherapy and in combination therapy. Fractional lasers—both ablative and non-ablative—operate through precise, thermal damage to the skin, enabling the treatment of wrinkles, scars, and discoloration. Despite their high effectiveness confirmed in clinical trials, limitations such as small patient groups, lack of standardized treatment protocols, and short follow-up periods hinder a comprehensive assessment of their effectiveness. The use of combined therapies demonstrates synergistic effects and may be an optimal treatment strategy for patients seeking lasting results while maintaining a high level of safety.
Study Purpose and Materials: The aim of this study is to analyse clinical trials published in the PubMed database between 2008 and 2025 regarding invasive skin rejuvenation techniques. This field is a rapidly developing area of aesthetic medicine, offering new therapeutic options for patients with signs of skin aging. The study focuses on assessing the effectiveness, safety profile, and clinical indications of three main methods: microneedling, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and fractional lasers.
Summary: Microneedling, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and fractional lasers are effective and safe methods of invasive skin rejuvenation. Their use, both as monotherapy and in combination therapies, improves skin quality and reduces wrinkles, scars, and discoloration. Despite promising clinical results, further studies with larger patient groups and standardized protocols are necessary to solidify their place in everyday aesthetic medicine practice
PHARMACOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT OF DEPRESSION AND HALLUCINATIONS IN PARKINSON’S DISEASE: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW
Purpose: The aim of this study is to present available treatment options for depression and hallucinations in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The review discusses the application of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs, e.g., duloxetine), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs, e.g., paroxetine, escitalopram), pimavanserin, pramipexole, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in the treatment of depressive symptoms in PD. Moreover, the therapeutic use of atypical antipsychotics such as clozapine, quetiapine, and pimavanserin in managing hallucinations in PD is addressed.
Materials and Methods: This review is based on literature identified via Google Scholar.
Results and Conclusions: SSRIs are among the most commonly prescribed agents in the treatment of depression associated with Parkinson’s disease, although robust evidence supporting their efficacy in large cohorts remains limited. Other therapeutic options include SNRIs and tricyclic antidepressants. In cases of Parkinson’s disease-related hallucinations, the initial approach involves reducing dopaminergic medication doses to rule out drug-induced psychosis. If symptoms persist, second-generation atypical antipsychotics may be introduced. Clozapine and quetiapine are preferred over agents such as olanzapine and risperidone due to a more favorable motor side effect profile. Pimavanserin stands out as a promising agent due to its minimal adverse effects and high safety profile in this patient population
PRIMARY PULMONARY HODGKIN'S LYMPHOMA: A CASE OF DIAGNOSTIC COMPLEXITY AND TREATMENT RESISTANCE
Primary pulmonary Hodgkin's lymphoma (PPHL) arises from the lymphoid tissue of the alveolar mucosa or peribronchial lymph nodes. PPHL is extremely rare, representing only 1.5–2.4% of all cases of primary pulmonary lymphoma.[1] Its rarity and nonspecific presentation often lead to diagnostic delays. Symptoms such as cough, fatigue, or chest discomfort mimic other pulmonary diseases, complicating clinical evaluation. Here, we present a case of PPHL initially misdiagnosed as granulomatosis with polyangiitis due to overlapping clinical and histopathological findings. This case emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and highlights the critical role of thorough histopathological analysis in establishing an accurate diagnosis
THE ROLE OF PHYTOESTROGENS IN BREAST CANCER PREVENTION -CURRENT STATE OF KNOWLEDGE
Introduction and aim. Phytoestrogens -mainly isoflavones (soy) and lignans (flaxseed, whole grains) are the subject of intensive research in the context of breast cancer prevention and prognosis. This review evaluates epidemiological, experimental, and clinical evidence regarding the impact of phytoestrogens on disease risk and progression.
Material and methods. There were searched PubMed databases and Google Scholar.
Results. In meta-analyses and large observational cohorts, soy consumption is associated with a moderate reduction in the risk of breast cancer. After a diagnosis of breast cancer, soy consumption does not increase the risk of recurrence and may be associated with a reduction in overall mortality. Lignans (enterolactone) show beneficial correlations with prognostic endpoints, especially in postmenopausal women. However, data from randomized intervention studies and the effect of isoflavone supplements remain limited.
Conclusion. Consuming foods rich in phytoestrogens may be part of a strategy to reduce breast cancer risk and is generally safe for women diagnosed with breast cancer, but there is insufficient evidence to support routine supplementation with isoflavones. RCTs in Western populations, studies on dosage, exposure time, and the role of gut microbiota are needed
THE IMPACT OF COFFEE CONSUMPTION ON HUMAN HEALTH: A REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE
The purpose of this review is to present the current state of knowledge on the impact of coffee consumption on human health, with particular emphasis on its bioactive components and physiological effects. The method for the scientific literature review involved were the various systematic analyses, meta-analyses, and also the reports of global public health institutions like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) [7], the World Health Organization (WHO) [19], and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) [1].
The theoretical section discusses the chemical composition of coffee, including caffeine, polyphenols, chlorogenic acids, and diterpenes, as well as their mechanisms of action on the nervous, metabolic, and cardiovascular systems. The review indicates that moderate coffee consumption (approximately two to four cups per day) is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, certain cancers, and reduced all-cause mortality [15][5]. Yet, overconsumption can cause sleep disorders, anxiety, acid reflux, and high blood pressure in people who are easily affected. Besides that, the review also points to factors that influence the impact of coffee on the body, such as the genetics of caffeine metabolism and the ways of preparation. Finally, it is stated that moderate consumption of coffee, particularly filtered, can be a safe practice and even have a positive effect on health. The main factors deciding this are the amount of coffee, the individual's tolerance, and the general dietary and lifestyle context
LONG-TERM ENDOCRINE SEQUELAE AFTER COVID-19: CLINICAL INSIGHTS, DIGITAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES AND PUBLIC HEALTH CHALLENGES
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed that SARS-CoV-2 infection affects not only the respiratory system but also multiple endocrine organs, leading to a broad spectrum of long-term hormonal disturbances. This narrative review aims to summarize the current evidence on endocrine sequelae after COVID-19, emphasizing pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and implications for patient management. A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2020 and October 2025 addressing endocrine or metabolic consequences of COVID-19.
The reviewed data demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 can impair the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal, thyroid, gonadal, pancreatic, and growth hormone axes through direct viral injury, immune-mediated inflammation, and chronic stress-axis dysregulation. Clinical consequences include secondary adrenal insufficiency, autoimmune thyroiditis, new-onset diabetes, hypogonadism, and menstrual disorders. While many abnormalities appear transient, a subset of patients develop persistent dysfunction requiring long-term follow-up.
Tele-endocrinology and digital health solutions have emerged as valuable tools for monitoring endocrine recovery and improving access to care. However, significant research gaps remain, particularly regarding long-term prevalence, reversibility, and mechanisms of endocrine injury. Understanding and addressing these complications will require coordinated, multidisciplinary strategies that integrate clinical endocrinology, public health, and digital innovation