Annals of medicine
-
Review Meta Analysis
Molecular targeted therapy and immunotherapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials.
The aim of this study was to compare and rank different targeted therapies or immunotherapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma based on efficacy. ⋯ PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF)-targeting drugs have shown better therapeutic effects in the systematic treatment of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, and the combination of targeted and immune therapy modes should be further developed.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
A randomized, double-blind study on the efficacy of oral domperidone versus placebo for reducing SARS-CoV-2 viral load in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients in primary health care.
The clinical effect of domperidone against COVID-19 has been investigated in a double-blind phase III clinical trial (EudraCT number 2021-001228-17). Domperidone has shown in vitro antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and potential immudolatory properties through the stimulation of prolactin secretion. ⋯ Results do not prove the use of domperidone as antiviral in patients with COVID-19.
-
The optimal cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of three and four cycles of NAC in the treatment of MIBC through a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. ⋯ Three and four cycles of NAC had similar pathological responses and prognosis for MIBC, although the cancer-specific survival rate of four cycles was better than that of three cycles.
-
Acute pancreatitis is a common condition of the digestive system, but sometimes it develops into severe cases. In about 10-20% of patients, necrosis of the pancreas or its periphery occurs. Although most have aseptic necrosis, 30% of cases will develop infectious necrotizing pancreatitis. Infected necrotizing pancreatitis (INP) requires a critical treatment approach. Minimally invasive surgical approach (MIS) and endoscopy are the management methods. This meta-analysis compares the outcomes of MIS and endoscopic treatments. ⋯ Endoscopic management of INP performs better compared to surgical treatment due to its lower complication rate and higher patient life quality.
-
Review
The association between morphological characteristics of paraspinal muscle and spinal disorders.
Spinal disorders affect millions of people worldwide, and can cause significant disability and pain. The paraspinal muscles, located on either side of the spinal column, play a crucial role in the movement, support, and stabilization of the spine. Many spinal disorders can affect paraspinal muscles, as evidenced by changes in their morphology, including hypertrophy, atrophy, and degeneration. ⋯ The findings of this review highlight the need for further research to better understand the relationship between the paraspinal muscles and spinal disorders, and to develop effective interventions to improve spinal health and reduce the burden of spinal disorders.