Revista Romana de Medicina de Laborator Feed

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Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

PTH washout as a decisive biochemical tool in a diagnostic dilemma: Ectopic parathyroid adenoma mimicking metastatic disease

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Exploratory analysis of genetic variation, clinical activity score, and lanadelumab response in two families with hereditary angioedema due to C1-inhibitor esterase deficiency

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Hereditary angioedema due to C1-inhibitor esterase (C1INH) deficiency is caused by mutations in the SERPING1 gene. The same mutation can cause variable disease severity, highlighting the role of genetic and clinical factors in disease expression. The aim of this study was to evaluate these factors alongside the effectiveness of lanadelumab in two families.Case presentation: Here, we conducted a comparative analysis of affected members from two families including clinical activity scores, C1INH activity levels at diagnosis and genetic mutations. In lanadelumab treated patients, efficacy was evaluated three and 12 months post-initiation, and the two groups were compared. In family 1, eight affected individuals were identified across five generations. A deletion in exon 4 was detected in three of the six living patients. The clinical activity score was ≥5 in all and the C1INH activity level ≤ 40 % in five of them. In the three sisters receiving lanadelumab, the uncontrolled disease became a controlled one. In family 2, 16 affected individuals were identified across four generations, with eight patients followed at our center. A missense mutation in exon 8 was detected in five patients. Un undetectable C1INH activity level and clinical activity scores ≥5 was identified in five patient. In two from the three patients treated with lanadelumab a markedly reduction in attacks frequency weas obtained (from 9 to 2 in both of them) and one patient became symptom-free.Conclusions: The relationship between specific genetic mutations, clinical severity score, and response to prophylactic treatment remains inconclusive.

Over-the-counter supplements in endocrine practice: prevalence, influencing factors, and potential consequences for diagnosis

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Dietary supplement use has increased substantially in recent decades, driven by wellness culture, disease prevention, and interest in healthy ageing. In endocrinology, supplements may interfere with hormonal assays or alter the absorption of prescribed therapies. This study evaluated the prevalence of over-the-counter dietary supplement use, associated factors, consumption patterns, and implications for medical practice among Romanian adults with and without endocrine disorders.Methods: This cross-sectional study included 301 adults aged 18–65 years, recruited from an endocrinology clinic and a general practitioner’s practice in Târgu Mureș and Fălticeni, Romania. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, clinical characteristics, supplement use during the previous six months, reasons for use, perceptions of safety and efficacy, purchasing behavior, and label-checking habits. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS and GraphPad Prism, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.Results: Most participants were women (91.7%), with a mean age of 47.7 ± 13.5 years; 69.1% had endocrine disorders. Only 15.9% reported no supplement use, while participants with endocrine disorders had significantly higher consumption rates. Most respondents used supplements following medical recommendations (69.4%) and purchased them from pharmacies (90.7%). Health promotion was the main reason for use (65.1%), followed by energy and immune support (32.2%). Vitamin D, vitamin C, magnesium, and calcium were the most commonly used products. Overall, 72.4% consumed at least one supplement daily, and 23.3% used more than three products per day.Conclusions: OTC dietary supplement use was highly prevalent, especially among individuals with endocrine disorders. Given the potential effects on diagnostic testing and treatment efficacy, supplement use should be systematically assessed during endocrine consultations.

Hematological indices and undiagnosed anemia among adult male patients in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Hematological indices are essential tools for evaluating physiological and pathological conditions, particularly anemia, which may remain undiagnosed in adult males due to the absence of specific clinical symptoms. This study aimed to assess the distribution of hematological indices and identify undiagnosed anemia among adult male patients.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 211 adult male participants attending outpatient services at Security Forces Hospital in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Blood samples were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer to measure complete blood count parameters. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin <13 g/dL. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and independent-samples t-test were applied.Results: Anemia was identified in 30 participants (14.2%), predominantly among older age groups. The mean hemoglobin level was significantly lower among anemic participants compared to non-anemic participants (11.52 ± 1.38 g/dL vs 14.93 ± 1.23 g/ dL, p<0.001). Most participants were asymptomatic, although a substantial proportion of anemic participants also lacked clinical symptoms. Microcytic red blood cells were observed in 28.0% of participants, with 28.8% of them being anemic, while 8.6% of normocytic participants were anemic. Anemia severity was mainly mild to moderate.Conclusions: Anemia and subclinical hematological abnormalities are common among adult males and often clinically silent, highlighting the importance of routine laboratory screening for early detection and prevention.

Evaluating the clinical utility of serum free light chain measurement and reference change value in monitoring monoclonal gammopathy

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Serum free light chain (sFLC) measurement is highly sensitive for detecting low levels of immunoglobulins but has limited ability to distinguish between polyclonal and monoclonal increases. This study retrospectively evaluated the clinical utility of interpreting sFLC results using reference change values (RCVs) rather than conventional reference intervals (RIs) for detecting disease relapse in patients with multiple myeloma-related plasma cell disorders, where appropriate.Methods: A total of 254 paired immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) and sFLC results obtained from 143 patients were evaluated, including repeated measurements from 50 patients. Immunofixation electrophoresis was used as the comparative reference method. Serum kappa, lambda, and κ/λ ratio results were interpreted using population-based reference intervals, and RCVs for sFLC measurements were calculated. Sensitivity and specificity for detecting disease-related changes during follow-up were compared between RI-based and RCV-based interpretation.Results: The calculated RCVs for increases and decreases in kappa and lambda light chains ranged from 27% to 40%. During follow-up, nine patients achieved remission, one experienced relapse, and disease status remained stable in 40 patients. Interpretation of the κ/λ ratio using reference intervals yielded a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 78%, whereas RCV-based evaluation of sFLC results showed a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 50%.Conclusions: Given the limited sensitivity of κ/λ ratio interpretation based solely on reference intervals, its usefulness for longitudinal disease monitoring may be restricted. Application of RCV-based interpretation to serial sFLC measurements may enhance the detection of clinically meaningful disease-related changes during follow-up, particularly in patients with low-level or stable sFLC concentrations.

Bioactive components of human breast milk: Antimicrobial mechanisms, immunomodulatory properties, and laboratory relevance in neonatal care

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Human breast milk is a biologically complex fluid whose protective functions extend well beyond nutritional provision. The growing burden of antimicrobial resistance and neonatal vulnerability to infection have renewed interest in characterizing the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory components of human milk through laboratory methods. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the major bioactive constituents of human breast milk, with emphasis on mechanisms of action, laboratory quantification and translational relevance for neonatal care.Methods: A non-systematic literature search was conducted across international databases using terms encompassing lactoferrin, secretory immunoglobulin A, human milk oligosaccharides, antimicrobial peptides, exosomes, milk microbiome, resistome and donor milk processing. Priority was given to studies published in the past 10 years, with earlier foundational references included where appropriate. The substantial heterogeneity in sample collection protocols, measurement techniques and outcome definitions does not lend itself to meta-analytic synthesis; a narrative approach is therefore appropriate.Results: Human breast milk contains a multi-layered antimicrobial system of proteins (lactoferrin, lysozyme, antimicrobial peptides), secretory IgA, human milk oligosaccharides, extracellular vesicles, bacteriophages, and a resident microbiome. Conventional ELISA fails to resolve glycosylation-dependent functional parameters addressable only by mass spectrometry. HMO composition is 97% FUT2-genotype-determined, requiring structural profiling. Holder pasteurization reduces bioactive capacity and generates advanced glycation end products. Gestational age and metabolic status modulate concentrations clinically.Conclusions: Laboratory characterization of human milk bioactive components represents a clinically relevant and underexplored area of neonatal laboratory medicine. Standardized measurement protocols and evidence-based thresholds are needed to guide clinical decision-making and optimize donor milk banking.

Association of galectin-3 with echocardiographic parameters in acute COVID-19 heart failure phenotypes and a post-acute comparator cohort

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Galectin-3 is involved in inflammatory and fibrotic pathways and may reflect myocardial remodeling in COVID-19. Its relationship with echocardiographic findings across heart failure phenotypes during acute disease and the post-acute period remains incompletely defined. This study aimed to examine associations between circulating galectin-3 and echocardiographic parameters in acute COVID-19 heart failure phenotypes and in a post-acute comparator group.Methods: This single-center retrospective observational study included 86 participants: 61 adults assessed during hospitalization for acute COVID-19 and 25 adults assessed approximately 2 months after infection. The acute-phase participants were classified as HFrEF (n=6), HFmrEF (n=20), or HFpEF (n=35); the post-acute participants formed a separate comparator group (n=25). Between-group comparisons were recalculated from reported group sample sizes, means, and standard deviations using Welch analysis of variance with Games-Howell post hoc tests. Associations were summarized using reported Spearman correlation coefficients.Results: Galectin-3 differed among the four analytical groups (Welch p<0.001). Games-Howell pairwise differences were observed between HFrEF and HFpEF (p=0.027), HFrEF and the post-acute comparator (p=0.009), HFmrEF and HFpEF (p=0.019), and HFmrEF and the post-acute comparator (p<0.001). In HFpEF, galectin-3 correlated with left atrial volume (rho=0.538, p<0.001) and left atrial volume index (rho=0.532, p=0.001). In the post-acute comparator, galectin-3 correlated inversely with LVEF (rho=-0.501, p=0.011) and positively with E/e’ (rho=0.525, p=0.007) and LVESV (rho=0.535, p=0.006). Large correlations in HFrEF were based on only six participants and were considered unstable.Conclusions: Galectin-3 was associated with selected echocardiographic measures in this exploratory cohort. The small, uneven groups, absence of a robust adjusted model, and lack of longitudinal outcomes preclude conclusions regarding independent, prognostic, or phenotype-specific clinical utility.

Successful clinical outcome in a rare case of biparental rob(13;14) translocation following NGS-based preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Robertsonian translocation (rob) is a structural chromosomal rearrangement resulting from the fusion of the long arms of acrocentric chromosomes. Although carriers are typically phenotypically normal, they may present with reproductive issues such as infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss due to meiotic segregation errors. This case report describes the cytogenetic findings and preimplantation genetic testing outcomes of a consanguineous couple in whom a biparental balanced rob(13;14) (q10;q10) translocation was identified.Case presentation: A couple referred for genetic evaluation due to recurrent pregnancy loss was included. Peripheral blood karyo-typing was performed in both partners, revealing a balanced rob(13;14)(q10;q10) translocation. The male partner also presented with severe oligozoospermia based on standard semen analysis. Following controlled ovarian stimulation, an IVF cycle was performed. Trophectoderm biopsies from blastocyst-stage embryos were analyzed using next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements (PGT-SR). A total of 11 blastocysts were analyzed. Of these, 4 embryos (36.3%) were classified as normal or balanced, whereas 7 embryos (63.7%) demonstrated chromosomal abnormalities, including whole-chromosome aneuploidies, mosaic trisomies, and segmental imbalances. One normal/balanced embryo was selected for transfer, resulting in a successful clinical pregnancy and the subsequent birth of two healthy children.Conclusions: Biparental rob(13;14)(q10;q10) carriage may be associated with highly complex embryonic segregation patterns and a high rate of chromosomally unbalanced embryos. NGS-based PGT-SR provides a reliable approach for identifying transferable embryos and guiding reproductive management in such rare cases.

Effects of β-blockers on hemorheological parameters in experimental arterial hypertension

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Arterial hypertension is a multifactorial disorder involving elevated blood pressure, microcirculatory and hemorheological disturbances, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress, which contribute to increased peripheral resistance and disease progression. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of β-blockers on hemorheological parameters, nitric oxide bioavailability, and oxidative stress in experimental arterial hypertension.Methods: Experimental hypertension was induced in male Wistar rats using N^G-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 40 mg/kg/day). Animals were divided into control, hypertensive, and treatment groups receiving nebivolol, propranolol, metoprolol, or carvedilol. Blood pressure, hemorheological parameters, nitric oxide levels, and total antioxidant activity were evaluated.Results: L-NAME administration significantly increased arterial pressure, erythrocyte aggregation, and plasma viscosity, accompanied by reduced NO levels and decreased antioxidant capacity (p < 0.01). β-blocker treatment significantly reduced arterial pressure in all groups. Under the present experimental conditions, nebivolol was associated with the greatest improvement in NOx levels, antioxidant activity, and erythrocyte aggregation. However, because equipotent β-blocker dosing was not established, direct comparisons of efficacy among agents should be interpreted cautiously. Carvedilol demonstrated moderate effects, while propranolol and metoprolol showed less improvement in parameters. β-blocker treatment was associated with simultaneous reductions in pulse arterial pressure and erythrocyte aggregation; however, no formal correlation analysis was performed.Conclusions: Experimental hypertension is associated with disturbances in the microcirculation–hemorheology–oxidative stress axis. β-blockers partially reverse these alterations, with nebivolol being associated with more pronounced improvement under the conditions of the present study, likely related, at least in part, to its nitric oxide-mediated and antioxidant properties.

Recent advances in wound healing, tissue repair, regeneration, and scar management: A literature review

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Wound healing, tissue repair, and regeneration are biological processes essential for restoring tissue integrity following injury. Disorders in these processes can lead to complications and the formation of scars, impacting both physical and psychological well-being. This review synthesizes recent advancements in the understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing these processes. We explore the sequential phases of wound healing, the key cellular and molecular players involved, factors influencing healing outcomes, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Special emphasis is placed on novel biomaterials, cell-based therapies, gene therapies, and physical modalities. Modern therapeutic approaches aim to accelerate healing while minimizing complications such as scarring, infection, or chronic inflammation. Available strategies for wound and scar management include topical and intralesional pharmacological treatments, silicone-based products, advanced dressings, physical modalities, and procedural interventions. This review summarizes the mechanisms, clinical applications, limitations, and current evidence supporting these approaches, while selected commercial formulations are discussed only as illustrative examples of different therapeutic mechanisms. Finally, we discuss current challenges and future directions in the field, highlighting the potential for personalized medicine and translational research.

Association of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratios with treatment response and quality of life in colorectal and pancreatic cancer: A prospective analysis

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundSystemic inflammation and hypercoagulability are key drivers of cancer progression. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of inflammatory and coagulation-related ratios—specifically neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and ferritin-to-D-dimer ratio (FDR)—in patients with colorectal and pancreatic cancer.MethodsWe prospectively enrolled 73 patients with confirmed colorectal (n=57) or pancreatic cancer (n=16). Patients were classified as responders (n=39) or non-responders (n=34) based on radiological evaluation 6 months post-therapy. Baseline complete blood counts, ferritin, and D-dimer levels were compared. Predictive accuracy was assessed using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.ResultsNon-responders exhibited significantly higher baseline leukocyte and neutrophil counts (p<0.002). Ferritin levels were 2.5-fold higher in non-responders (p<0.05). ROC analysis identified NLR as a strong predictor of treatment failure (AUC=0.895; Optimal Cut-off >2.68), while LMR was a significant predictor of favorable response (AUC=0.864). Unlike previous reports, FDR was significantly elevated in non-responders (p=0.002). High NLR was moderately correlated with poor functional status (ECOG r=0.44) exclusively in the non-responder group.ConclusionsBaseline NLR and LMR are robust predictors of therapeutic outcome in colorectal and pancreatic cancer.

Investigation of the effects of chronic L-arginine supplementation on paraoxonase-1 activity in high-cholesterol diet-induced hypercholesterolemia model in rats

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundHypercholesterolemia is a cardinal driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), one of the major global mortality causes. Associated oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation perturbes HDL-associated paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity. This study investigates the effects of chronic L-arginine supplementation—a nitric oxide precursor—on PON1 activity, lipid profiles, and oxidative stress in hypercholesterolemic rats.MethodsSubjects were randomly selected and divided into four equal groups (n=36): control (C), L-arginine (LA), hypercholesterolemia (HC), and hypercholesterolemia + L-arginine (HC+LA). After 8-weeks study period, serum lipid levels, PON1, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured, and the atherogenic index (ATI) was calculated. Atherosclerotic lesions were evaluated histopathologically.ResultsPON1, MDA, and lipid levels, as well as ATI and the PON1/HDL ratio, were increased in the HC group. These variables were significantly lower in the HC+LA group than in the HC group. Moreover, a significant increase in TG, VLDL, and PON1 levels was observed in the LA group compared with the C group. A strong negative correlation was found between PON1 and MDA levels.ConclusionsChronic L-arginine supplementation was effective in reducing ATI, LDL, and oxidative stress, and in alleviating structural vascular changes in high cholesterol diet-induced hypercholesterolemia model rats.

Comparative evaluation of wound healing with different treatments in rats: Cytokine modulation, histological remodeling, and scar outcomes

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundSkin injury repair depends on a tightly regulated sequence of inflammation, proliferation, and matrix remodeling, where mediators such as IL-1 and IL-6 contribute to immune activation and extracellular matrix formation. Variability in cytokine control influences scar maturation, prompting exploration of treatment strategies capable of shortening the inflammatory phase and enhancing structural regeneration.MethodsThis study compared four wound-care approaches in rats with surgically induced full- thickness lesions: a polysilicon-siloxane formulation (PS), a silicone-based gel (Sil), a betamethasone preparation (BMt), and a heparin-containing agent (Hep). Topical formulations were applied two to three times daily, while BMt was delivered weekly by subcutaneous injection. Serum IL-1 and IL-6 concentrations were quantified by ELISA, scar evolution was documented using the Vancouver Scar Scale, and tissue organization was examined through histological staining protocols, including trichrome-based collagen visualization and elastic fiber assessment.ResultsEarly cytokine elevation was evident across groups, with IL-1 returning to near-baseline most rapidly in PS- and Sil-treated animals by day 21, and one week later in BMt-treated rats. Hep and untreated controls maintained higher values for longer. IL-6 peaked later than IL-1, normalizing by day 28 in the PS, Sil, and BMt groups alone. Microscopy demonstrated faster vascular normalization and earlier collagen and elastic-fiber restoration with PS, followed by Sil and BMt, while Hep improved matrix architecture only during later stages.ConclusionsOverall, PS produced the most favorable and accelerated recovery pattern, Sil and BMt provided moderate benefit, and Hep displayed slower reparative capacity.

Precision and bias evaluation of three different triglyceride assays: Discrepant bias per the CLSI EP15-A3 and EP09-A3 guidelines

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundBesides its clinical importance, triglyceride (TG) measurement plays a critical role in calculating Low-Density Lipo-protein Cholesterol (LDL-C). Therefore, it is important to highlight any biases when changing methods. The Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) EP09-A3 recommends evaluating bias between two methods using fresh samples, while EP15-A3 suggests verifying precision and estimating bias, with quality control (QC) material as an option for samples.MethodsThe performance of three different TG reagents (Abbott Triglyceride, Abbott Triglyceride-2, and Archem Triglyceride) with EP09-A3 and EP15-A3 and the effects of TG results on LDL-C calculations were evaluated.ResultsNotable inconsistencies were observed between biases from patient samples and QC materials. The lowest QC measurements and the highest patient results were both seen with Abbott TG. While median bias values were within acceptable limits, there were discrepancies in slope and intercept values between TG reagents. The bias in LDL-C values calculated using Friedewald’s and Sampson’s equation was acceptable, but the Martin-Hopkins equation showed even less bias. The Abbott TG reagent fully met the imprecision criteria, the Abbott TG 2 reagent partially but clinically acceptably met them, whereas the Archem TG reagent, despite having imprecision values below the optimum CV, failed to meet the manufacturer’s claims.ConclusionsThis discrepancy in bias between patient samples and QC materials underscores the challenge of control material commutability. Laboratories should assess bias when switching methods using the practical EP09-A3 approach, and perform an EP15-A3 verification study before introducing any new kit into routine use.

Implementation of Moroccan GBEA requirements in private laboratories: Current status and future perspectives

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundThe Moroccan Good Practice Guide for Laboratory Analyses (GBEA) provides the normative framework ensuring good practices and quality assurance within clinical laboratories. While some laboratories rely solely on the GBEA as their quality assurance framework, others opt for certification or accreditation to strengthen their quality management system. This study aims to explore the status of adherence to the GBEA requirements by private clinical laboratories in the Fez-Meknes region during the second half of 2025.MethodsAn exploratory cross-sectional quantitative study assessing compliance, consisting of measuring the degree of compliance of the structures investigated with a predefined regulatory framework (GBEA). The data collection period lasted six months, from July to December 2025, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20 software.ResultsThe participating laboratories (n=30) answered all questions. Laboratories with years of experience seem to have the highest rates, unlike laboratories with less than five years, which have the lowest rates, with p<0.001. Six laboratories had the highest rates, ranging from 92% to 100%, while the lowest compliance rates were between 50% and 54.5%. Challenging aspects for laboratories are quality control, documentation, procedures for recording equipment reagents and consumables, as well as procedures for accessing and using the premises.ConclusionsAlthough the GBEA is a legislative and regulatory framework covering good practice and quality assurance in Moroccan laboratories, it is intended to be reinforced by an explanatory guide on standardized procedures and processes, staff training and monitoring through scheduled audits, to help laboratories establish a culture of quality and continuous improvement.

Prevalence and associated factors of anemia among adult male patients at Security Forces Hospital in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundAnemia in adult males is an underrecognized condition that may reflect nutritional deficiencies, chronic disease, or inflammation. Data on the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among adult males attending healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia remain limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and identify associated demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors among adult male patients at a Security Forces Hospital.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 568 adult male patients aged ≥18 years. Blood samples were analyzed using automated hematology analyzers to assess blood count parameters. Anemia was defined according to World Health Organization criteria as hemoglobin <13 g/dL. Demographic, lifestyle, and clinical data were collected. Associations between anemia and independent variables were assessed using chi-square and independent t-tests, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.ResultsThe prevalence of anemia was 15.8%. Anemia increased significantly with age (p<0.001), with the highest prevalence among participants aged 55–64 years. Physical inactivity, iron supplementation use, and conception of iron-rich food were significantly associated with anemia (p<0.05). Most cases were mild (65.6%), and microcytic hypochromic anemia was the predominant morphological type (52.2%). Iron studies showed low serum iron levels in more than half of the tested participants.ConclusionsAnemia is common among adult male patients, particularly in older age groups. Iron deficiency appears to be a major contributor, although multiple etiologies are likely. These findings support routine anemia screening and preventive strategies among adult males in hospital settings.

Serum TNF-α and IL-8 as predictors of gastric mucosal cancerization in Helicobacter pylori-positive gastritis

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundHelicobacter pylori (HP) infection is a well-established risk factor for gastric carcinogenesis, primarily through the induction and maintenance of chronic gastric mucosal inflammation. In this study, we aimed to explore the correlations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels with the risk of gastric mucosal cancerization in patients with HP-positive gastritis.MethodsSubjects (200 in total) in this retrospective study were enrolled from patients with HP-positive gastritis treated from January 2022 to December 2024. A non-cancer group (n=80, patients with chronic superficial gastritis and atrophic gastritis) and a cancer group (n=120, patients with gastric cancer) were set based on the condition of mucosal lesions. Measurement of serum TNF-α and IL-8 levels was completed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The 14C-urea breath test was conducted to determine the status of HP infection. Multivariate regression analysis was employed to identify the influencing factors of gastric mucosal cancerization risk. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was also conducted.ResultsThe serum TNF-α and IL-8 levels were significantly higher in the cancer group than in the non-cancer group (p<0.05). Both TNF-α and IL-8 levels displayed significantly positive correlations with the risk of gastric mucosal cancerization (r=0.785, r=0.812, p<0.05). Elevated TNF-α and IL-8 levels, high severity of HP infection and presence of virulence factor cytotoxin-associated gene A were independent risk factors for gastric mucosal cancerization (p<0.05). The areas under the ROC curves of serum TNF-α and IL-8 levels were 0.798 and 0.698, respectively (p<0.01).ConclusionsThis study reveals a close positive correlation between serum TNF-α and IL-8 levels and the risk of gastric mucosal cancerization in patients with HP-positive gastritis.

Diagnostic performance of the systemic inflammation response index and aggregate index of systemic inflammation in polycystic ovary syndrome: A ROC curve analysis

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women, characterized by hormonal, metabolic, and inflammatory changes. Chronic low-grade inflammation plays a key role in its pathogenesis. Traditional markers such as CRP and leukocyte count are often non-specific, while novel biomarkers SIRI and AISI provide a more comprehensive assessment of immune status.MethodsIn this comparative study, 35 women with PCOS and 45 healthy controls aged 18-40 years were evaluated. Age and BMI were comparable between groups. Serum fasting glucose, fasting insulin, lipid profile, CRP, and total testosterone were measured (Cobas pure, Roche Diagnostics), and insulin resistance was estimated via HOMA-IR. SIRI and AISI indices were calculated from complete blood count data using a Sysmex XN-1000 analyzer.ResultsAmong women with PCOS, phenotype A was predominant (85.7%). Compared to controls, women with PCOS had higher fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, atherogenic lipid profile, CRP, total leukocyte count, total testosterone, and inflammatory indices (SIRI and AISI), while fasting glucose was similar. Both AISI and SIRI were significantly higher in PCOS (AISI median 269.4 vs. 150.1; SIRI median 0.9500 vs. 0.5600; p = 0.001). ROC analysis showed acceptable discriminatory ability (AUC 0.712 for AISI; 0.713 for SIRI), with moderate sensitivity (AISI 57.8%; SIRI 64.4%) and specificity (AISI 80%; SIRI 74.3%) for distinguishing PCOS from controls.ConclusionsAISI and SIRI values are significantly higher in women with PCOS and serve as accessible, reliable biomarkers of chronic low-grade inflammation, supporting their use in routine clinical assessment for early detection of systemic inflammation.

G-protein coupled short-chain fatty acid receptor GPR 43 fluorescence immunohistochemistry staining protocol for confocal microscopy in human colon cancer

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundG-protein coupled receptor 43 (GPR43) mediates the biological effects of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the colon, but its role in colon cancer (CC) remains insufficiently characterized. This pilot study presents in detail a cost-effective and easily reproducible fluorescence immunohistochemistry protocol for staining GPR43 in formaldehyde-fixed, paraffin-embedded human colon tissue.MethodsUsing samples from patients with colon adenocarcinoma (ACC) and signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC), we optimized staining procedures with generic reagents and a custom 3D-printed slide tray, facilitating minimal reagent usage and consistent sample coverage.ResultsConfocal microscopy revealed distinct GPR43 localization on the apical and basal membranes of colonocytes and goblet cells in healthy tissue. In contrast, ACC tissue exhibited diffuse, disorganized staining, while SRCC samples showed minimal receptor expression. These findings suggest a link between GPR43 expression patterns and tissue differentiation status. Additionally, we observed autofluorescence at 488 nm of eosinophils without staining, as previously reported in literature.ConclusionsThese findings may support prognostic assessments based on intratumoral or peritumoral eosinophil counts. The present study shows in detail an easily reproducible IHC staining method for GPR 43 in paraffin embedded tissue samples, using only generic materials and highlights its potential role as a biomarker or therapeutic target in CC.