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Search Results (318)

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18 pages, 1375 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of a Nasal Medical Device (NESOSPRAY HE-G) in Acute Rhinosinusitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
by Marine Delmas, Manon D’Almeida, Séverine Dameron-Puech and Rémi Shrivastava
Medicina 2026, 62(9), 1631; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62091631 - 25 Aug 2026
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Acute rhinosinusitis is associated with a substantial deterioration in quality of life, including symptoms such as nasal obstruction, facial pressure, cough, and sleep disruption. Growing interest in non-pharmacological management strategies has been observed, particularly among populations in whom systemic [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Acute rhinosinusitis is associated with a substantial deterioration in quality of life, including symptoms such as nasal obstruction, facial pressure, cough, and sleep disruption. Growing interest in non-pharmacological management strategies has been observed, particularly among populations in whom systemic treatments may be limited, such as pediatric patients and pregnant individuals. NESOSPRAY HE-G is a nasal device containing a filmogenic glycerol formulation designed to create a protective barrier and induce an osmotic effect, thereby promoting nasal decongestion and mucosal protection. Materials and Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to assess the performance and safety of NESOSPRAY HE-G (n = 20) compared with a saline comparator (n = 20) in patients aged 3 years and older presenting with acute rhinosinusitis and a baseline Rhino-Sinusitis Severity Score (RSSS) of at least 25/50. The investigational product was administered as three sprays per nostril, four times daily, over a maximum period of 15 days or until symptom resolution. Efficacy was primarily evaluated through changes in the total RSSS and in key symptoms, including nasal congestion, facial pain, cough, sleep disturbance, and fever. Safety assessments included monitoring adverse events (AE) and evaluating local tolerability. Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Treatment with NESOSPRAY HE-G resulted in a statistically significant reduction in total RSSS from Day 2 onwards, with sustained effects throughout the study period. Improvements were also observed across individual symptoms, including early relief of nasal congestion and reductions in cough and facial pain, with faster onset compared to the comparator. Sleep quality showed progressive improvement. Resolution of fever occurred in both groups, with an earlier effect observed in the NESOSPRAY HE-G arm. No serious adverse events (SAE) or hypersensitivity reactions were reported. The product demonstrated good tolerability. Conclusions: NESOSPRAY HE-G provides rapid and sustained alleviation of symptoms associated with acute rhinosinusitis. Its topical mode of action, based on osmotic activity and barrier formation, represents a suitable non-pharmacological option, particularly for patients seeking alternatives to systemic therapies or presenting contraindications to such treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pulmonology)
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11 pages, 4020 KB  
Case Report
Awake Prone Positioning in Moderate ARDS: A Case Report
by Kapilan Kalaruban, Aristomenis Exadaktylos, Vincent Ribordy and Mairi Ziaka
Clin. Pract. 2026, 16(8), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract16080151 - 17 Aug 2026
Viewed by 151
Abstract
Background: Legionella pneumophila is a rare but severe cause of community-acquired pneumonia and can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Awake prone positioning (APP) has been recognized as an effective adjunct for non-intubated patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure, primarily studied in coronavirus [...] Read more.
Background: Legionella pneumophila is a rare but severe cause of community-acquired pneumonia and can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Awake prone positioning (APP) has been recognized as an effective adjunct for non-intubated patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure, primarily studied in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other ARDS etiologies. Its application in Legionella-associated ARDS remains poorly documented. Therefore, in this work, we present a case of Legionella-associated ARDS successfully managed with APP, high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), non-invasive ventilation (NIV), levofloxacin, and corticosteroids. Case presentation: A 62-year-old male with multiple comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and a history of coronary artery bypass surgery, presented with a 3-day history of productive cough, exertional dyspnea, and general malaise. Oxygen saturation on admission was 90%, with fever and tachycardia. Inflammatory markers were markedly elevated. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed extensive bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. Despite a negative urinary Legionella antigen test, sputum polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed Legionella pneumophila on day 2. A Horowitz index of 147 mmHg on day 2 established moderate ARDS. The patient was treated with HFNC oxygen therapy, NIV, and APP for up to 12 h daily. Antibiotic therapy was initiated with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and clarithromycin, subsequently streamlined to levofloxacin upon microbiological confirmation. Methylprednisolone 40 mg/day was administered for 8 days as adjunctive ARDS therapy. The patient demonstrated gradual clinical and respiratory improvement without requiring endotracheal intubation. Follow-up chest CT on day 7 showed regression of bilateral consolidations and ground-glass opacities (GGOs). The patient was transferred to pulmonary rehabilitation on day 11 and completed antibiotic therapy as an outpatient. Conclusions: This case illustrates the successful use of APP combined with HFNC and NIV alongside standard medical therapies, including appropriate antibiotics and corticosteroids, to avoid intubation in moderate ARDS secondary to Legionella pneumonia. Early initiation of APP may be a valuable strategy in Legionella-associated ARDS in carefully selected patients. Full article
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16 pages, 682 KB  
Review
Liberation from Mechanical Ventilation in Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure or Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Review
by Karen E. A. Burns, Karen J. Bosma, Bruno L. Ferreyro, Dipayan Chaudhuri, Andrew J. E. Seely and Daniel R. Ouellette
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(15), 6019; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15156019 - 3 Aug 2026
Viewed by 494
Abstract
Efforts to liberate patients from invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) begin when the underlying cause of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) or adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) that led to use of invasive ventilation has resolved or improved and patients can initiate spontaneous breaths. [...] Read more.
Efforts to liberate patients from invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) begin when the underlying cause of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) or adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) that led to use of invasive ventilation has resolved or improved and patients can initiate spontaneous breaths. In preparation for liberation, clinicians transition patients to spontaneous modes of ventilation as soon as possible while ensuring that patients’ respiratory effort is not insufficient or excessive during weaning attempts. Concurrently, clinicians aim to minimize the effects of sedative and analgesic agents, screen daily to identify patients who are ready to undergo a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT), and conduct SBTs to help assess patients’ readiness for extubation. Extubation failure is rarely the consequence of a single physiological abnormality. Rather, it reflects the interaction of multiple mechanisms that often coexist, including an imbalance between respiratory system load and capacity, ineffective cough, and secretion burden among others. For these reasons, single weaning parameters and SBTs may fail to identify some patients who are at risk for extubation failure. Conversely, indices and scores that combine two or more parameters and newer techniques may provide mechanistic insights into the pathways that lead to extubation failure, help to characterize ‘at-risk’ phenotypes, and identify patients who may benefit from closer monitoring, targeted therapeutic strategies, and/or early application of noninvasive respiratory support strategies such as high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) and bilevel noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIV). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure: Progress, Challenges and Future)
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15 pages, 455 KB  
Article
Post-Acute COVID-19 Symptoms Clusters and Work Status
by Aoyjai Prapanjaroensin Montgomery, Nathaniel Erdmann, Wanda Hall, Juan Pablo Pilco and Emily B. Levitan
Occup. Health 2026, 1(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/occuphealth1030031 - 15 Jul 2026
Viewed by 694
Abstract
Long COVID affects an estimated 10–20% of SARS-CoV-2 survivors with heterogeneous, multi-system symptoms persisting for months to years, contributing to significant workforce disruption and reduced functional capacity. This exploratory study identified symptom clusters following SARS-CoV-2 infection, examined associated personal and clinical characteristics, and [...] Read more.
Long COVID affects an estimated 10–20% of SARS-CoV-2 survivors with heterogeneous, multi-system symptoms persisting for months to years, contributing to significant workforce disruption and reduced functional capacity. This exploratory study identified symptom clusters following SARS-CoV-2 infection, examined associated personal and clinical characteristics, and assessed work status across clusters. Among 273 individuals from a single clinical site, we used baseline surveys to capture long COVID symptoms and 2-week follow-up surveys to assess work status, and applied K-means clustering to identify symptom groupings. Three preliminary clusters emerged: Cluster 1 (“brain fog”), characterized by fatigue (96%), difficulty remembering (97%), and difficulty concentrating (94%); Cluster 2 (“undifferentiated”), with low prevalence across all symptoms; and Cluster 3 (“persistent acute”), marked by cough (92%), congestion (80%), headaches (78%), and body aches (78%). Notably, among Cluster 1 (“brain fog”) respondents, 44% reported not working, and approximately half attributed their work absence to COVID-related symptoms. These hypothesis-generating findings suggest that neurocognitive symptom clusters may be associated with greater work absence in some individuals, though the small number of respondents limits firm conclusions. The findings suggest that targeted occupational rehabilitation strategies may warrant further investigation as potential strategies for individuals experiencing post-infectious cognitive impairment following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Full article
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11 pages, 5377 KB  
Case Report
Focus on Rare Tracheal Pathologies You Should Not Miss
by Anna Annunziata, Roberto Rega, Lidia Atripaldi, Antonietta Coppola, Mariano Mollica, Luigi Fiorentino, Candida Massimo, Raffaella Lucci, Antonella Marotta and Giuseppe Fiorentino
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(14), 5474; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15145474 - 13 Jul 2026
Viewed by 430
Abstract
Backgroud: Pathologies of the trachea and large bronchi are a heterogeneous group of rare structural disorders of the airway wall that are frequently underdiagnosed because their symptoms overlap with common respiratory diseases. Methods: We present three patients with chronic cough and [...] Read more.
Backgroud: Pathologies of the trachea and large bronchi are a heterogeneous group of rare structural disorders of the airway wall that are frequently underdiagnosed because their symptoms overlap with common respiratory diseases. Methods: We present three patients with chronic cough and dyspnea lasting approximately three years who had previously received multiple incorrect diagnoses, including COPD, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux, and acute bronchitis. Case Description: Following hospitalization for acute respiratory failure, comprehensive differential diagnostic workups revealed Mounier–Kuhn syndrome (tracheobronchomegaly) in Case 1, idiopathic tracheobronchomalacia in Case 2, and tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica in Case 3. Tracheobronchomegaly involves marked dilatation of the trachea and main bronchi; tracheobronchomalacia is characterized by expiratory airway collapse due to loss of cartilage stability; and tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica is a disease of unknown etiology featuring abnormal submucosal chondrification and ossification with luminal obstruction. All three impair mucociliary clearance and predispose to recurrent infections and progressive respiratory dysfunction. Conclusions: Through these cases we underscore the diagnostic challenges, characteristic radiological findings, and diverse management strategies of these conditions, emphasizing the critical need to consider tracheobronchial anomalies in patients with chronic respiratory symptoms and the key role of computed tomography in establishing an accurate diagnosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
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13 pages, 283 KB  
Article
Three- and Nine-Month Follow-Up of Patients with COVID-19: Clinical, Functional, and Radiological Outcomes
by Muhammed Değer, Talat Kılıç, Zeynep Ulutaş, Muhammed Said Tan, Hatice Ödümlü, Ayşenur Atila, Hilal Büşra Demir, Büşra Soysaldı, Miraç Karaağaç, Yunus Emre Er and Ozan Akdağ
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 5202; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15135202 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 459
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The acute complications of COVID-19 have been well characterized and are frequently associated with increased mortality. Although substantial knowledge regarding long COVID has accumulated since the beginning of the pandemic, important uncertainties remain regarding the long-term clinical, functional, radiological, and metabolic consequences [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The acute complications of COVID-19 have been well characterized and are frequently associated with increased mortality. Although substantial knowledge regarding long COVID has accumulated since the beginning of the pandemic, important uncertainties remain regarding the long-term clinical, functional, radiological, and metabolic consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Identification of post-COVID-19 complications is therefore essential for appropriate recognition and management. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term complications of COVID-19 at 3 and 9 months after infection. Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Inonu University Turgut Ozal Medical Center. Patients who presented with active post-COVID-19 complaints or for routine follow-up were enrolled. Participants were evaluated at the pulmonology outpatient clinic at 3 and 9 months. At each visit, persistent or new-onset symptoms were assessed, and pulmonary function tests (PFT), the six-minute walk test (6MWT), echocardiography (ECHO), and thoracic computed tomography (CT) were performed as clinically indicated. Patients were stratified into three groups according to the severity of acute illness: outpatient, ward-hospitalized, and ICU-hospitalized. Results: A total of 205 patients (120 male, 85 female) were included. Male patients had significantly higher rates of ward and ICU hospitalization than female patients (p = 0.006). At 9 months, 85.3% of patients had at least one persistent symptom; dyspnea (69.6%), cough (35.6%), and chest pain (32.5%) were the most common. FVC showed a statistically significant increase between months 3 and 9 (p = 0.014), and the 6MWT distance improved significantly (423.56 m vs. 464.10 m; p = 0.008). Ground-glass opacity, present in 90.2% of patients at admission, persisted in 44.3% at 9 months (p < 0.001). Reticular opacities, pleuroparenchymal bands, and mosaic perfusion patterns increased over time. ICU patients had significantly lower ejection fraction values compared with ward and outpatient groups at 9 months (p = 0.046). During follow-up, 13 patients developed pulmonary embolism and 7 developed new-onset diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: Despite the well-characterized acute phase, the long-term sequelae of COVID-19 remain a significant clinical challenge. Identification of late complications is critical for reducing morbidity and understanding the long-term societal and healthcare burden of the pandemic. Multidisciplinary long-term follow-up is warranted, particularly for patients who experienced severe acute illness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
15 pages, 1260 KB  
Article
Intercostal Nerve Block in Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Propensity-Score Matched Single-Center Study of Early Postoperative Pain and Opioid Use
by Fahim Kanani, Narmin Zoabi, Eduard Khabarov, Zoey Berdan, Moshe Argaman, Mirit Meller, Rijini Nugzar, Oren Fruchter, Mohammad Eid Al Mohtasib, Mordechai Shimonov, Anas Salhab, Moshe Kamar and Firas Abu Akar
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 4910; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15134910 - 24 Jun 2026
Viewed by 524
Abstract
Background: Acute pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) promotes respiratory splinting, impaired cough, and pulmonary complications, and predicts persistent opioid use. Surgeon-administered intercostal nerve block (ICNB) is a simple regional technique, but its independent effect on early pain and opioid requirement in [...] Read more.
Background: Acute pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) promotes respiratory splinting, impaired cough, and pulmonary complications, and predicts persistent opioid use. Surgeon-administered intercostal nerve block (ICNB) is a simple regional technique, but its independent effect on early pain and opioid requirement in a contemporary uniportal VATS (UVATS) pathway is incompletely defined. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 456 consecutive patients undergoing UVATS at a single Israeli center between 2017 and 30 May 2025. Patients receiving an intercostal block were compared with those who did not. Baseline covariates were balanced by 1:1 nearest-neighbor propensity-score matching (caliper 0.2 SD of the logit propensity score). The primary endpoints were pain on postoperative day (POD) 1 (visual analog scale, VAS) and postoperative opioid use; secondary endpoints included later pain, analgesic regimen, postoperative pneumonia, and mortality. Results: Matching yielded 159 patients per group (n = 318) with all clinically relevant covariates balanced (standardized mean difference [SMD] < 0.13). Median POD1 VAS was lower with the block (4 [IQR 3–4] vs. 5 [5–7]; p < 0.001), and 76.1% of block patients were opioid-free versus 10.7% who were not (p < 0.001). The effect was concentrated early and attenuated by POD3. In multivariable analysis the block was independently associated with lower POD1 VAS (adjusted β = −1.64, 95% CI −2.00 to −1.29; p < 0.001). Postoperative pneumonia was less frequent in the block group (5.7% vs. 20.1%; p < 0.001). Thirty-day and one-year mortality did not differ significantly. Conclusions: In UVATS, a surgeon-placed intercostal nerve block was associated with lower early postoperative pain that persisted after adjustment for operating surgeon and surgical era, concordant with pooled meta-analytic estimates; associated reductions in opioid use and pneumonia were confounded with surgeon and secular trend and are hypothesis-generating. These single-center, retrospective findings require prospective, protocol-randomized confirmation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section General Surgery)
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19 pages, 867 KB  
Article
Safety Profile of Zavegepant in the Treatment of Acute Migraine: Insights from the FDA Adverse Event Monitoring System Database
by Giuseppe Cicala, Maria Antonietta Barbieri, Giulia Russo, Rosella Ciurleo, Rosario Grugno, Angelo Quartarone and Edoardo Spina
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(6), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19060943 - 15 Jun 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 523
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The recent approval of the first intranasal calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist (CGRP-RA), zavegepant, has increased the relevance of this drug class in treating acute migraine. However, introducing an alternative delivery method may result in a different real-world safety profile. Thus, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The recent approval of the first intranasal calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist (CGRP-RA), zavegepant, has increased the relevance of this drug class in treating acute migraine. However, introducing an alternative delivery method may result in a different real-world safety profile. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess adverse events (AEs) related to zavegepant through a retrospective pharmacovigilance disproportionality analysis. Methods: We analyzed Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs) presenting zavegepant as the suspected drug, submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Monitoring System (AEMS) database between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2025. ICSRs were assessed by using descriptive and disproportionality analyses. Reporting odds ratios (RORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as disproportionality measures. Results were deemed significant if the ROR 95% CI lower bound was >1 and ≥3 ICSRs were available for each drug–event pair. Results: A total of 509 zavegepant-related ICSRs were identified. Most ICSRs involved female patients (n = 353; 69.4%), with a median (quartile 1, Q1–quartile 3, Q3) age of 45 (34–56) years. The Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA®) Preferred Terms with the highest RORs were nasal discomfort (n = 62; ROR = 298.85; 95%CI [228.91, 390.17]), rhinalgia (10; 126.09; [67.34, 236.09]), dysgeusia (147; 94.72; [78.19, 114.75]), pharyngeal ulceration (3; 79.20; [25.42, 246.75]), and upper-airway cough syndrome (16; 62.87; [38.19, 103.49]). Conclusions: These results suggest a safety profile for zavegepant consistent with previous knowledge regarding CGRP-RAs. However, nasal and/or oropharyngeal AEs, plausibly related to intranasal exposure, may affect perceived tolerability and timely use, warranting further investigation. Full article
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16 pages, 647 KB  
Article
Occupational Exposure to Cooking-Generated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Associated Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage Among Grill Restaurant Workers
by Sumed Yadoung, Peerapong Jeeno, Phannika Tongchai, Sakaewan Ounjaijean, Kongsak Boonyapranai, Saweang Kawichai, Hataichanok Chuljerm, Kanokwan Kulprachakarn, Anurak Wongta and Surat Hongsibsong
Toxics 2026, 14(6), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14060512 - 12 Jun 2026
Viewed by 996
Abstract
Street-food grilling is a common occupation in Asia, yet the occupational health risks associated with cooking-generated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure, occurring alongside plausible unmeasured co-exposures such as ambient heat and physical workload, remain under-researched. This study investigated the internal dose of PAH [...] Read more.
Street-food grilling is a common occupation in Asia, yet the occupational health risks associated with cooking-generated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure, occurring alongside plausible unmeasured co-exposures such as ambient heat and physical workload, remain under-researched. This study investigated the internal dose of PAH exposure and its association with early biological effects and physiological strain among grill restaurant workers. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving grill workers and 20 age/BMI-matched controls. Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) was utilized as the primary exposure biomarker. The study assessed early biological effects such as oxidative stress (8-OHdG, F2-isoprostanes), lung epithelial integrity (CC16), and genotoxicity (BPDE-DNA adducts) via ELISA. Physiological parameters, including blood pressure and heart rate, were recorded to evaluate acute cardiovascular strain. Workers had significantly elevated urinary 1-OHP levels compared to controls (Hodges–Lehmann ratio = 3.66, 95% CI: 1.68–7.12, representing a 3.7-fold median increase), with exposure levels increasing proportionally to smoke proximity. Notably, workers demonstrated a significantly higher median resting heart rate (HL ratio = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.05–1.23; +12.9%) and systolic blood pressure (HL ratio = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.00–1.18; +8.9%) compared to their office-based peers. Although strong correlations were observed among biological effect biomarkers (rs = 0.42–0.63), there were no significant differences between groups for 8-OHdG, CC16, or BPDE-DNA adducts, suggesting that cardiovascular parameters reflect acute short-term responses, while genomic damage markers may require higher cumulative exposure thresholds to become detectable. The study revealed that grill restaurant workers face substantial internal PAH exposure and significant cardiovascular strain, occurring alongside plausible unmeasured co-exposures including ambient heat and physical workload. The prevalence of chronic cough and elevated heart rate is a critical early warning sign for occupational health. Our findings indicate that current general ventilation is inadequate, highlighting an urgent need for localized engineering controls and comprehensive health surveillance, including cardiovascular monitoring in the service sector. Full article
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19 pages, 4262 KB  
Article
Immune Dysregulation After COVID-19: Longitudinal Analysis up to 9 Months
by Paweł Mitkowski, Monika Leśniak, Dagmara Kobza, Karolina Aleksandrowicz, Aleksander Chodowiec, Krzysztof Piwowarek, Wojciech Włodarczyk, Klaudia Porębska, Katarzyna Plewka-Barcik, Agata Borkowska, Renata Rożyńska, Ewa Pietruszka-Wałęka, Andrzej Wojtyszek, Karina Jahnz-Różyk, Marcin Pękalski, Andrzej Chciałowski, Robert Zdanowski and Krzysztof Kłos
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 5137; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27115137 - 5 Jun 2026
Viewed by 1112
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers a strong inflammatory response, and persistent symptoms after recovery are thought to reflect prolonged systemic dysregulation. However, mechanisms underlying long COVID remain unclear. This study evaluated longitudinal changes in cytokine hematological and biochemical parameters up to nine months after hospitalization [...] Read more.
SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers a strong inflammatory response, and persistent symptoms after recovery are thought to reflect prolonged systemic dysregulation. However, mechanisms underlying long COVID remain unclear. This study evaluated longitudinal changes in cytokine hematological and biochemical parameters up to nine months after hospitalization for COVID-19 and examined their relationship with persistent symptoms, vaccination status, and the occurrence of comorbidities. Long COVID patients showed sustained elevations in IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, CXCL9, TNF-α, and IFN-γ compared with healthy controls, exhibiting heterogeneous temporal trajectories. Specifically, levels of IL-2, IL-10, TNF-α, and creatinine continued to increase over time, whereas IFN-γ, LDH, CCL2, CXCL9, and CXCL10 declined. Other parameters exhibited greater variability without a uniform longitudinal pattern. IL-6 demonstrated consistently high diagnostic performance in distinguishing individuals after COVID-19 from healthy controls (AUC > 0.82). Aging substantially affects cytokine profiles and systemic inflammatory status; therefore, residual age-related confounding cannot be fully excluded despite statistical adjustment. Although symptoms such as fatigue, cough, and dyspnea were still reported at nine months, no stable associations were identified between cytokine concentrations and clinical manifestations. These findings indicate that while immune alterations persist long after acute infection, systemic cytokine measurements alone may be insufficient to explain the presence or persistence of symptoms. The results suggest that long COVID reflects multifactorial processes extending beyond systemic inflammation and highlight the need for further research into mechanisms driving long-term long COVID sequelae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Pathophysiology (6th Edition))
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12 pages, 208 KB  
Article
Severe Asthma Exacerbations in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: Clinical Profile, Management, and Outcomes—Retrospective Study
by Amal H. Aljohani, Hamdi Ahmed Alsufiani, Abeer Musaibieh AlSaadi, Nora Abdulrahman Alem, Mamoun AliAbusunoon and Amnah Ibrahim Madkhali
Children 2026, 13(5), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13050710 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 782
Abstract
Background: Severe asthma exacerbations remain a major cause of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions, particularly in early childhood. Objective: To describe the demographic characteristics, clinical features, management strategies, and short-term outcomes of children admitted to the PICU with severe acute asthma exacerbations. [...] Read more.
Background: Severe asthma exacerbations remain a major cause of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions, particularly in early childhood. Objective: To describe the demographic characteristics, clinical features, management strategies, and short-term outcomes of children admitted to the PICU with severe acute asthma exacerbations. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted of pediatric patients aged 1–14 years with severe acute asthma requiring PICU admission at King Salman Medical City, Madinah, Saudi Arabia (January 2023–October 2024). A total of 73 patients were included. Data included demographics, risk factors, medical history, clinical presentation, management, and outcomes. Results: The mean patient age was 4.6 years, with most (57.5%) aged 1–5 years. Males comprised 56.2% of cases. WHO BMI-for-age z-score assessment revealed a bimodal nutritional distribution: 27.9% of patients were underweight, including 20.6% with severe underweight, while 29.4% were overweight or obese; 42.6% had normal nutritional status. Severe undernutrition was concentrated in the 1–5-year age group, whereas obesity predominated in the 6–10-year age group. A family history of asthma was noted in 54.8% of patients; 16.4% had prior COVID-19 infection. Early symptom onset and delayed diagnosis were common. Poor asthma control was documented in 60.3%, with low medication adherence (9.6%) and limited aerochamber use (13.7%). The most frequent presenting symptoms were dyspnea, cough, and wheezing. Management followed evidence-based protocols: systemic corticosteroids and bronchodilators were first-line therapies. The mean PICU stay was 3.1 days and the mean hospital stay was 8.1 days. No mortality or major complications occurred; 93.2% of patients were discharged in good health. Conclusions: Severe pediatric asthma requiring PICU admission is associated with early symptom onset, a bimodal pattern of nutritional risk encompassing both undernutrition and overweight/obesity, family history of asthma, and inadequate outpatient management. These descriptive findings highlight the need for age-adjusted nutritional screening, enhanced medication adherence support, and targeted outpatient education to reduce avoidable PICU admissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine)
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11 pages, 241 KB  
Article
National Cross-Sectional Study Assessing the Positivity Rate and Clinical Manifestations of Human Bocavirus Respiratory Infections Among Hospitalized Children Under 5 Years of Age in Jordan
by Mohammad Abu Lubad, Munir Abu-Helalah, Mohammad Al-Hanaktah, Maisalreem Alhousani, Jana Khatatbeh, Ahmad Al Tibi, Amin Aqel and Simon B. Drysdale
Pathogens 2026, 15(5), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15050515 - 12 May 2026
Viewed by 413
Abstract
Human bocavirus (HBoV) is an important respiratory pathogen in young children, but recent data from Jordan are limited. This study assessed the positivity rate, epidemiological profile, clinical manifestations, and predictors of HBoV infection among hospitalized children aged <5 years in Jordan. In this [...] Read more.
Human bocavirus (HBoV) is an important respiratory pathogen in young children, but recent data from Jordan are limited. This study assessed the positivity rate, epidemiological profile, clinical manifestations, and predictors of HBoV infection among hospitalized children aged <5 years in Jordan. In this national multicenter cross-sectional study, 1000 children aged <5 years admitted with acute respiratory infection to four hospitals in Jordan between November 2022 and March 2023 were included. Nasopharyngeal specimens were tested for HBoV, and demographic, clinical, and hospitalization data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. HBoV was detected in 48/1000 children (4.8%), with the highest positivity in January 2023 (15.5%). Fever (100%), cough (100%), rhinorrhea (56.3%), respiratory crackles (58.3%), and breathlessness (47.9%) were the most frequent manifestations. Pneumothorax/atelectasis was more frequent in HBoV-positive than HBoV-negative children (2.1% vs. 0.2%; p = 0.021). Household smoking, residence outside Amman, and longer hospital stay were independent predictors of HBoV positivity. HBoV infection was not independently associated with complications. HBoV accounted for a measurable proportion of pediatric respiratory hospitalizations in Jordan and remains a relevant contributor to respiratory morbidity in children under 5 years. Full article
8 pages, 195 KB  
Article
Benign Acute Childhood Myositis Before and After COVID-19: A Nine-Year Retrospective Study
by Helena Ferreira, Carolina Pinto da Costa, Sofia Silva Faria, Ana Luísa Correia and Sofia Aroso
Pediatr. Rep. 2026, 18(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric18020047 - 31 Mar 2026
Viewed by 665
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This aim of this study was to describe the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of hospitalized children with benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) and to evaluate seasonal patterns, including changes observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted a retrospective [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This aim of this study was to describe the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of hospitalized children with benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) and to evaluate seasonal patterns, including changes observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted a retrospective single-center review of pediatric patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of BACM between January 2016 and December 2024. Clinical, laboratory, and epidemiological data were analyzed, including seasonal distribution before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: We identified 47 cases of BACM, with a male predominance (66%) and a median age of 7 years. Most cases (72%) occurred during autumn and spring. The most common prodromal symptoms were fever, cough and rhinorrhea. Bilateral calf pain was the most frequent presenting symptom. The median creatine phosphokinase (CPK) level was 4986 U/L, with higher values in boys (p = 0.040). Higher CPK levels were associated with longer hospital stays in our cohort (p = 0.030). Influenza B was the most frequently identified pathogen (63%). No BACM cases were recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic period (2020–2022), followed by an increase in 2024. All patients fully recovered, with a median hospital stay of 3.2 days. Conclusions: BACM is a self-limiting condition with a characteristic clinical and laboratory profile. The absence of cases during the COVID-19 pandemic suggests a possible association between reduced viral circulation and BACM incidence. Awareness of its typical presentation may support early diagnosis, reduce unnecessary investigations, and facilitate appropriate clinical management. Full article
14 pages, 2525 KB  
Article
The Clinical Research of the Chronic Cough After COVID-19 Infection
by Juan Wang, Lingling Liu, Ning Zhou, Yankun Zhang, Huimin Liu, Chong Xu, Yueqing Wu and Jing Zhang
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2174; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062174 - 12 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3446
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and potential risk factors of chronic cough following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: A total of 1434 patients with post-COVID-19 cough were categorized into acute, subacute, and chronic subgroups by cough duration, with clinical data analyzed [...] Read more.
Objective: To investigate the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and potential risk factors of chronic cough following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: A total of 1434 patients with post-COVID-19 cough were categorized into acute, subacute, and chronic subgroups by cough duration, with clinical data analyzed across subgroups. Questionnaire surveys were conducted in chronic cough patients, followed by an 18–21-month follow-up. Results: 1. Significant intergroup differences were observed among the three groups in: the number of patients with rhinitis and/or pharyngitis history, cough with chest tightness, cough with pharyngeal symptoms, and sensitivity to irritating odors and cold air. 2. The chronic group had a significantly lower platelet count but higher eosinophil and basophil percentages than the acute group. 3. The chronic group showed significantly lower values than the subacute group in multiple pulmonary function indices: FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEF, MEF25, MEF75, MEF50, MMEF75/25, MEF75%, MEF50%, MEF25%, MMEF75/25%, DLCO, and DLCO%. 4. Chest CT findings: the chronic group had significantly lower rates of infected lesions, cord-like opacities, and ground-glass shadows than the acute group, but a higher rate of micro-nodules than the subacute group. 5. At follow-up, the cough and non-cough groups differed significantly in nighttime cough scores and the proportion of cough with chest tightness, as well as in pulmonary function parameters: FVC, FEV1, PEF, PEF%, MEF75, DLCO, RV% and TLC. 6. Binary logistic regression analysis identified the nocturnal cough symptom score and cough accompanied by chest tightness as independent factors influencing persistent cough 18–21 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conclusions: Patients with pre-existing upper airway inflammation, laryngeal symptoms, chemical hypersensitivity, elevated eosinophil/basophil percentages, and pulmonary micro-nodules are more likely to develop chronic post-COVID cough, presenting with partial ventilatory impairment and diffusing capacity impairments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
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13 pages, 1177 KB  
Article
Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Subgroup III Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus from a Dairy Outbreak in Thailand
by Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul, Sakuna Phatthanakunanan, Jaturong Wongsanit, Porawit Saisanongyod, Ploypassorn Homklinkaew and Suwimon Phandee
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(3), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13030220 - 26 Feb 2026
Viewed by 1300
Abstract
Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) is a major viral pathogen associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD), a leading cause of illness and economic loss in cattle worldwide. In June 2022, an acute respiratory outbreak occurred in a dairy herd in Photharam District, Ratchaburi [...] Read more.
Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) is a major viral pathogen associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD), a leading cause of illness and economic loss in cattle worldwide. In June 2022, an acute respiratory outbreak occurred in a dairy herd in Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand, affecting 25 of 103 cows (24.3%) and resulting in three deaths (2.9%). This study aimed to confirm BRSV as the etiological agent of the outbreak and to genetically and phylogenetically characterize Thai BRSV strains using partial G gene sequencing. Clinical signs included fever, nasal discharge, coughing, and subcutaneous emphysema. Nested reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (nested RT-PCR), a sensitive method for detecting viral RNA and targeting the F and G genes, confirmed BRSV in all samples. At the same time, bovine parainfluenza virus type 3 (BPIV-3), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), and bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) were not detected. Phylogenetic analysis of partial G gene sequences showed that all Thai isolates clustered closely within subgroup III, with 100% nucleotide identity among themselves and 85.9–97.7% similarity to subgroup III strains from other countries. Amino acid alignment indicated conservation of key antigenic motifs, including the cysteine noose, with only minor substitutions compared to some foreign strains. This study provides the first genetic and phylogenetic characterization of BRSV in Thailand, highlighting the genetic stability of subgroup III and providing baseline molecular data to support regional surveillance, diagnostics, and vaccine strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
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