Search Results (194)

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a key target for both cancer diagnosis and therapeutic interventions. Assessing EGFR expression before therapy has become routine in clinical practice, yet current methods like biopsy and immunohistochemistry (IHC) have significant limitations, including invasiveness, limited repeatability, and lack of real-time, whole-body data. EGFR-targeted imaging has emerged as a promising alternative. EGFR-targeting peptides, owing to their favorable physicochemical properties and versatility, are increasingly being explored for a variety of applications, including molecular imaging, drug delivery, and targeted therapy. Recent advances have demonstrated the potential of EGFR-targeting peptides conjugated to imaging probes for non-invasive, real-time in vivo tumor detection, precision therapy, and surgical guidance. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the latest progress in EGFR-targeting peptides development, with a particular focus on their application in the development of molecular imaging agents, including fluorescence imaging, PET/CT, magnetic resonance imaging, and multimodal imaging. Furthermore, we examine the challenges and future directions concerning the development and clinical application of EGFR-targeting peptide-based imaging probes. Finally, we highlight emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, mutation-specific peptides, and multimodal imaging platforms, which offer significant potential for advancing the diagnosis and treatment of EGFR-targeted cancers. Full article

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women world-wide, and early screening is critical for improving patient survival. Medical imaging plays a central role in breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring. However, conventional imaging modalities—including mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging—face limitations such as low diagnostic specificity, relatively slow imaging speed, ionizing radiation exposure, and dependence on exogenous contrast agents. Photoacoustic imaging (PAI), a novel hybrid imaging technique that combines optical contrast with ultrasonic spatial resolution, has shown great promise in addressing these challenges. By revealing anatomical, functional, and molecular features of the breast tumor microenvironment, PAI offers high spatial resolution, rapid imaging, and minimal operator dependence. This review outlines the fundamental principles of PAI and systematically examines recent advances in its application to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and therapeutic evaluation. Furthermore, we discuss the translational potential of PAI as an emerging breast imaging modality, complementing existing clinical techniques. Full article

Radiological assessment following pancreaticoduodenectomy is critical for the prompt diagnosis and management of postoperative complications, significantly influencing patient outcomes. Pancreaticoduodenectomy, or the Whipple procedure, is the standard surgical intervention for pancreatic and periampullary malignancies, but it involves notable risks, especially from complications like fistulas, bleeding, or leakage. Cross-sectional imaging, particularly contrast-enhanced computed tomography, serves as the primary diagnostic tool due to its rapid acquisition, high resolution, and effective delineation of postoperative anatomy and complications. Magnetic resonance imaging (with cholangiopancreatography and hepatobiliary contrast agents) complements CT by providing superior contrast resolution for specific complications, notably in the biliary system and pancreatic duct. This narrative review discusses various imaging techniques and their applications, highlighting characteristic radiological features of common postoperative complications. It underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing close collaboration between radiologists and surgeons to optimize surgical decision-making and improve patient management post-pancreatic surgery. Full article

Background and Purpose: Undescended testes (UDT) is recognized as the most prevalent anomaly of the male genitalia and presents a significant risk factor for long-term complications, including infertility and testicular cancer. Currently, there is no consensus on the necessity of imaging in the management of UDT, nor is there agreement on which imaging modality is preferred or to what extent these tests offer real added value in the clinical setting. This review aims to evaluate the various imaging options available in the management of cryptorchidism, discussing their utility, advantages, and disadvantages compared to exploratory laparoscopy. Methods: We conducted a PubMed search using the following search terms: [“undescended testis”] OR [(“cryptorchidism”) OR (“diagnostic imaging”)] OR [(“Ultrasound”), OR (“CT scan”) OR (“MRI”)] AND [“laparoscopy”]. We analyzed 90 full articles, excluding irrelevant ones, and, in total, 18 publications were included in this review. Results: Ultrasound (US) is the most commonly used technique due to its non-invasive nature and absence of ionizing radiation. It is particularly beneficial in cases of non-palpable UDT. However, its main limitation lies in the difficulty in accurately locating UDT, especially when they are situated outside the inguinal region. Computed tomography (CT) scans serve as a crucial diagnostic tool, particularly for testes located below the internal inguinal ring. While CT exhibits comparable accuracy in detecting UDT, the need for sedation or general anesthesia, along with the costs and potential risks of secondary malignancy due to radiation exposure, does not favor its routine use. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers higher sensitivity than US and does not utilize ionizing radiation or intravascular contrast agents. It allows for the generation of multiplanar images, thereby providing improved tissue characterization. However, limitations include prolonged scan durations, the potential for motion artifacts during imaging, the need for sedation, and higher costs. Laparoscopy has been shown to provide better accuracy, offering both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits, particularly in cases of non-palpable UDT. It is widely regarded as the gold standard in achieving clear diagnostic and definitive therapeutic procedures and has demonstrated its utility in determining the anatomical position of intra-abdominal testes, owing to its magnification capabilities and minimally invasive approach. Conclusions: Achieving a correct and comprehensive diagnosis of cryptorchidism requires the medical team to decide on the appropriate imaging studies, as these will not significantly influence or alter the therapeutic decision-making process. It is unlikely that medical practice will eliminate imaging studies before a surgical decision is made in the near future. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach that includes clinical examination, imaging, and diagnostic laparoscopy remains essential for the accurate management of UDT. Full article

Spondyloarthropathies (SpAs) represent a diverse group of seronegative immune-mediated inflammatory diseases characterized by a genetic predisposition and an association with human leukocyte antigen-B27. This narrative review aims to explore juvenile spondyloarthropathies (JSpAs), their classification, clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and contemporary treatment strategies. According to the International League of Associations for Rheumatology criteria, JSpAs include several specific forms: enthesitis-related arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and undifferentiated arthritis. Despite established classifications, the terms and definitions surrounding these conditions can often lead to confusion among healthcare professionals. This ambiguity underscores the need for a standardized approach to nosological classification. The clinical presentation of JSpAs can be multifaceted, encompassing both articular and extra-articular manifestations. Articular symptoms may include enthesitis and varying forms of arthritis, while extra-articular involvement can range from uveitis to gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and renal complications. These diverse manifestations highlight the systemic nature of the disease and the importance of a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment. While laboratory tests for SpAs are often non-specific, imaging modalities such as musculoskeletal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging play a crucial role in the early detection of inflammatory lesions. These imaging techniques can provide valuable insights into disease progression and aid in the formulation of appropriate treatment plans. Current treatment guidelines advocate for a “stepwise” approach to therapy, beginning with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and progressing to glucocorticoids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, and biological agents, particularly anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha agents. The primary objective of treatment is to achieve clinical remission or, at a minimum, to attain low disease activity. Regular monitoring of disease activity is imperative; however, the lack of validated assessment tools for the pediatric population remains a significant challenge. JSpAs pose unique challenges in terms of diagnosis and management due to their diverse manifestations and the complexities of their classification. Ongoing research and clinical efforts are essential to refine our understanding of these conditions, improve treatment outcomes, and enhance quality of life for affected children and their families. Effective management hinges on early detection, individualized treatment plans, and continuous monitoring, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate care tailored to their specific needs. Full article

Ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal gynecologic malignancies, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis, high recurrence rates, and the development of chemoresistance. Although targeted therapies have improved patient outcomes, their efficacy is often limited by off-target toxicity and acquired drug resistance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), nanoscale vesicles naturally released by cells, have emerged as promising carriers for precision drug delivery. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in EV-based therapeutic strategies for ovarian cancer, including the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents, nucleic acid therapeutics, and immunomodulatory molecules. We further explore innovative engineering approaches to enhance targeting specificity, such as surface modification, cell source selection, biomaterial integration, and magnetic nanoparticle-assisted delivery. Key translational challenges in bringing EV-based therapies to clinical application are also addressed. Collectively, these insights underscore the transformative potential of EV-based platforms in advancing targeted and personalized treatment for ovarian cancer. Full article

Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) has become an essential modality in breast cancer diagnosis and management. It is particularly used for locoregional staging, high-risk screening, monitoring treatment response, and assessing complications related to breast implants. The integration of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) enhances the sensitivity and specificity of CE-MRI by providing detailed morphological and functional insights, particularly highlighting tumor neoangiogenesis. Despite its advantages, CE-MRI faces challenges such as high costs, limited accessibility, and concerns about gadolinium retention in tissues, prompting ongoing research into safer, high-relaxivity contrast agents like gadopiclenol. Advances in multiparametric imaging, including dynamic contrast-enhanced sequences and diffusion-weighted imaging, have refined diagnostic accuracy, enabling precise staging, and treatment planning. The introduction of abbreviated breast MRI (AB-MRI) protocols offers a promising solution to barriers of cost and scan duration, maintaining diagnostic efficacy while improving patient accessibility and comfort. Future innovations in contrast agents, imaging protocols, and patient-centered approaches hold the potential to further enhance the utility of breast MRI, ensuring equitable and effective application in global healthcare systems. Full article

In this literature review, methods for the detection of breast cancer biomarkers and the operation of electrochemical sensors are considered. The work of sensors in the determination of breast cancer biomarkers was systematized, a comparative table with other methods was compiled, as was a classification of sensors depending on their intended use. The various traditional methods for the diagnosis of breast cancer biomarkers are described, including mammography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission computed tomography, computed tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, and biopsy, and their advantages and disadvantages are presented. Key sensor parameters for the detection of breast cancer biomarkers are compared, such as the detection limit, linear detection range, response time, sensitivity, and other characteristics depending on the analyte being analyzed. Based on the reviewed scientific papers, the significance of electrochemical sensors in detecting the biomarkers of breast cancer is demonstrated. The types of tumor biomarkers identified by biosensors were analyzed, with a particular focus on HER2. Studies on HER2 detection using electrochemical methods are compared and systematized, and the features of electrochemical biosensors for determining this biomarker are characterized. Possible interfering agents affecting the accuracy of HER2 determination under experimental conditions are considered, their mechanisms of action are analyzed, and ways to eliminate them are proposed. This report provides a summary of the current aspects of scientific research on electrochemical sensors for the detection of breast cancer biomarkers. The development of electrochemical biosensors opens up new prospects for the early diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer treatment. Full article

Nanoparticles have been widely used in cancer diagnostics and treatment research due to their unique properties. Magnetic nanoparticles are popular in imaging techniques due to their ability to alter the magnetization field around them. Plasmonic nanoparticles are mainly applied in cancer treatments like photothermal therapy due to their ability to convert light into heat. While these nanoparticles are popular among their respective fields, magnetic–plasmonic core–shell nanoparticles (MPNPs) have gained popularity in recent years due to the combined magnetic and optical properties from the core and shell. MPNPs have stood out in cancer theranostics as a multimodal platform capable of serving as a contrast agent for imaging, a guidable drug carrier, and causing cellular ablation through photothermal energy conversion. In this review, we summarize the different properties of MPNPs and the most common synthesis approaches. We particularly discuss applications of MPNPs in cancer diagnosis and treatment based on different mechanisms using the magnetic and optical properties of the particles. Lastly, we look into current challenges they face for clinical applications and future perspectives using MPNPs for cancer detection and therapy. Full article

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, it is important to acknowledge that ICI therapy can lead to immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including myocarditis. While early-onset myocarditis is well-documented, late-onset cases are increasingly recognized. This case series presents four cases of late-onset ICI-associated myocarditis, emphasizing the need for long-term surveillance of this potentially fatal complication. Patients exhibited a range of cardiac symptoms, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and arrhythmias. The diagnosis was confirmed through cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and elevated cardiac biomarkers. Treatment involved the immediate discontinuation of ICI therapy and the initiation of high-dose corticosteroids. In cases with an inadequate response, additional immunosuppressive agents were considered. This case series underscores the importance of prolonged monitoring for late-onset ICI-associated myocarditis. Further research is needed to establish optimal treatment strategies and long-term management approaches for this complex condition. Full article

Pregnancy induces significant hemodynamic changes, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the leading causes of non-obstetric maternal morbidity and mortality during pregnancy or the postpartum period in developed countries. The effective diagnosis and management of CVDs in pregnant women require a thorough evaluation that considers the health of both the mother and the fetus. Imaging plays a pivotal role in this evaluation, offering essential insights into the most significant pregnancy-related CVDs. However, due to concerns about fetal exposure, the use of contrast agents and radiation exposure must be carefully managed. Following to the principle of “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” (ALARA), strategies to minimize these risks are crucial for ensuring patient safety while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. This review highlights the contribution of cardiovascular imaging techniques, particularly computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in the assessment of common pregnancy-related CVDs, and outlines strategies to reduce radiation exposure and limit contrast agent use when feasible, aiming to increase radiologists’ awareness of this crucial topic. Full article

Cervical tuberculosis is a rare form of genital tuberculosis. A case of a 73-year-old woman who presented with cervical wall thickening on magnetic resonance imaging, suggesting an invasive malignant neoplasm, is documented. Cervical cone excision was performed for histopathological study. Microscopy showed epithelioid granulomas, without appreciable caseous necrosis, in the wall of the uterine cervix, associated with erosion of the overlying cervical mucosa. Histochemical stains for microorganisms (Ziehl–Neelsen, Grocott, and Warthin–Starry) were negative. Immunohistochemistry for Treponema pallidum revealed scarce, spiral-shaped bacilli, which raised the diagnostic possibility of secondary syphilis. The serological study for syphilis was negative, however. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Treponema pallidum were performed in the formaldehyde-fixed, paraffin embedded tissue and resulted positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and negative for Treponema pallidum, confirming the diagnosis of cervical tuberculosis. Our objective was to report a rare case of cervical tuberculosis, discussing the advantages and limitations of complementary techniques used in the pathological diagnosis of infectious agents and highlighting diagnostic pitfalls. In conclusion, correct microbiological diagnosis requires the implementation of integrated workflows employing complementary techniques in a multidisciplinary setting to improve the accuracy of histopathological examination in infectious diseases. Full article

The liver is supplied by a dual blood flow system consisting of the portal vein and hepatic artery. Imaging techniques for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been developed along with blood flow imaging, which visualizes the amount of arterial and portal blood flow. The diagnosis of HCC differentiation is important for early-stage liver cancer screening and determination of treatment strategies. Dynamic computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) includes blood flow imaging and MRI with contrast-enhanced ultrasound and liver-specific contrast agents are used in combination. In addition, unlike the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) (version 1.1), which is the standard for determining treatment efficacy for solid tumors in general, tumor necrosis is generally considered a treatment effect in HCC, and the modified RECIST and Liver Cancer Direct Effectiveness Criteria (RECICL) are widely used. Familiarity with the definitions, criteria, and potential challenges of the mRECIST and RECICL is essential for their effective application in clinical practice. This review integrates the latest advancements in systemic treatments and imaging techniques, including the role of LI-RADS and updates on molecular-targeted therapies such as regorafenib, supported by some systematic review and meta-analysis. Full article

Using a pediatric-focused lens, this review article briefly summarizes the presentation of several demyelinating and neuroinflammatory diseases using conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences, such as T1-weighted with and without an exogenous gadolinium-based contrast agent, T2-weighted, and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR). These conventional sequences exploit the intrinsic properties of tissue to provide a distinct signal contrast that is useful for evaluating disease features and monitoring treatment responses in patients by characterizing lesion involvement in the central nervous system and tracking temporal features with blood–brain barrier disruption. Illustrative examples are presented for pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis and neuroinflammatory diseases. This work also highlights findings from advanced MRI techniques, often infrequently employed due to the challenges involved in acquisition, post-processing, and interpretation, and identifies the need for future studies to extract the unique information, such as alterations in neurochemistry, disruptions of structural organization, or atypical functional connectivity, that may be relevant for the diagnosis and management of disease. Full article

Metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) have recently attracted much attention from researchers due to their use in cancer chemotherapy, targeted drug delivery, and diagnosis/MRI imaging. Various studies have demonstrated that different metal oxide NPs show cytotoxic effects by inducing apoptosis in cancerous cells and do not have any toxic impact on normal cells. The mechanism of cytotoxicity is shown through reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by (MONPs) in the cancerous cell. In vitro and in vivo studies reveal that in some cases metal oxide NPs are used alone and somewhere these NPs are used in combination with other therapies such as photodynamic therapy and with anticancer nanomedicines as drug carriers or drug conjugates. The phenomenon of enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect has been the basis of targeted drug delivery to cancerous tumors. Finally, we also provide a simple and comparative analysis of the major apoptosis pathways proposed to increase beginner understanding of anti-cancer nanomaterials. Herein, we have reviewed the most important antitumor results obtained with different metal oxide nanoparticles such as ZnO, Fe₂O₃/Fe₃O₄, CuO/Cu₂O, TiO₂, CeO_2, and HfO₂, respectively. These NPs can be applied to treat cancer by either passive or active processes. A passive process uses the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), due to their unique magnetic and physiochemical properties have been used in magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in vitro as well as in vivo. Now, the research has reached the stage of clinical trials for the treatment of various types of cancer. ZnO NPs have been used very vastly in cytotoxic as well as in targeted drug delivery. These NPs are also used for loading anticancer drugs such as doxorubicin. Herein, in this review, we have examined current advances in utilizing MONPs and their analogs as cancer therapeutic, diagnostic, and drug-delivery agents. Full article