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Keywords = vascular enlargement

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8 pages, 696 KiB  
Case Report
A Rare Case Report of Wunderlich Syndrome in a Chronic Hemodialysis Patient
by Elizabeth Artinyan, Evelina Valcheva, Marina Vaysilova and Nikolay Dimov
Reports 2025, 8(3), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8030121 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 321
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Spontaneous renal hematoma, also known as Wunderlich syndrome (WS), is a rare disease characterized by the acute onset of spontaneous renal hemorrhage into the subcapsular, perirenal, and/or pararenal spaces without a history of prior trauma. WS can be a [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Spontaneous renal hematoma, also known as Wunderlich syndrome (WS), is a rare disease characterized by the acute onset of spontaneous renal hemorrhage into the subcapsular, perirenal, and/or pararenal spaces without a history of prior trauma. WS can be a life-threatening condition due to hemorrhagic shock; consequently, prompt diagnosis and a therapeutic approach are essential for favorable outcomes. Treatment ranges from conservative management to surgical intervention. The most common etiologies are neoplasms and vascular diseases, but WS can also be observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis. In patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), especially those on hemodialysis, acquired cystic kidney disease and renal cell carcinoma are among the primary causes of WS. Although less common, WS can develop in dialysis patients even in the absence of traditional (primary) risk factors. In general, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a paradoxical hemostatic profile, likely explaining their higher tendency to bleed, so WS can occur without existing predisposing factors. The multifactorial pathogenesis in these patients includes functional platelet abnormalities, intimal arterial fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with ESRD. The use of hemodialysis-related antithrombotic medications could serve as another contributing factor increasing the risk of bleeding. Case Presentation: We present a case report of a 62-year-old male on chronic dialysis who developed sudden right-sided lumbar pain and hematuria during dialysis without evidence of prior trauma. Imaging revealed a large subcapsular hematoma of the right kidney. Further investigations did not reveal additional risk factors in this instance; however, his routinely used hemodialysis-related antithrombotic medications were potentially a contributing factor. Despite conservative treatment, his condition worsened, and the hematoma enlarged, requiring emergency nephrectomy. Postoperatively, his condition gradually improved. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of considering WS in hemodialysis patients, even without the presence of traditional risk factors, as well as including WS in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nephrology/Urology)
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10 pages, 1668 KiB  
Article
Hepatic Inflammation Primes Vascular Dysfunction Following Treatment with LPS in a Murine Model of Pediatric Fatty Liver Disease
by Hong Huang, Robin Shoemaker, Yasir Alsiraj, Margaret Murphy, Troy E. Gibbons and John A. Bauer
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6802; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146802 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 301
Abstract
Obesity and pediatric fatty liver disease are increasingly prevalent, yet the underlying mechanisms linking these conditions to heightened inflammatory and immune responses remain poorly understood. Using a murine model reflecting early-life obesity and hepatic steatosis, we tested the hypothesis that obesity-driven hepatic inflammation [...] Read more.
Obesity and pediatric fatty liver disease are increasingly prevalent, yet the underlying mechanisms linking these conditions to heightened inflammatory and immune responses remain poorly understood. Using a murine model reflecting early-life obesity and hepatic steatosis, we tested the hypothesis that obesity-driven hepatic inflammation intensifies systemic immune responses and exacerbates vascular dysfunction following innate immune activation. Newly weaned C57BL/6 mice were fed either a high-saturated-fat, high-cholesterol diet (HFD) or a control diet (CD) for four weeks, modeling adolescence in humans. HFD-fed mice exhibited hepatic and splenic enlargement, elevated plasma cholesterol levels, increased activity levels of liver enzymes (alanine and aspartate aminotransferases), and higher plasma serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations. Following a sublethal dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the expression of hepatic inflammatory genes (VCAM-1 and iNOS) was significantly elevated in HFD-fed mice, indicating an exaggerated local immune response. Mice fed an HFD also showed significant impairment in endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation compared to CD mice and saline-treated controls, while endothelium-independent responses remained intact. These vascular changes occurred in the context of hepatic inflammation, suggesting that early-life diet-induced steatosis sensitizes the vasculature to inflammatory insult. These findings suggest that obesity-driven hepatic inflammation primes exaggerated systemic immune responses to innate immune stimuli, potentially contributing to the vascular dysfunction and variable clinical morbidity observed in pediatric inflammatory conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Aspects)
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20 pages, 526 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Retinal Microcirculation in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Using Adaptive Optics and OCT Angiography: Correlation with Structural and Functional Damage
by Anna Zaleska-Żmijewska, Alina Szewczuk, Zbigniew M. Wawrzyniak, Maria Żmijewska and Jacek P. Szaflik
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 4978; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144978 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 292
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate retinal arteriole parameters using adaptive optics (AO) rtx1™ (Imagine Eyes, Orsay, France) and peripapillary and macular vessel densities with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in eyes with different stages of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) compared to healthy [...] Read more.
Background: This study aimed to evaluate retinal arteriole parameters using adaptive optics (AO) rtx1™ (Imagine Eyes, Orsay, France) and peripapillary and macular vessel densities with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in eyes with different stages of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) compared to healthy eyes. It also investigated the associations between vascular parameters and glaucoma severity, as defined by structural (OCT) and functional (visual field) changes. Methods: Fifty-seven eyes from 31 POAG patients and fifty from 25 healthy volunteers were examined. Retinal arteriole morphology was assessed using the AO rtx1™-fundus camera, which measured lumen diameter, wall thickness, total diameter, wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR), and wall cross-sectional area. OCTA was used to measure vessel densities in superficial (SCP) and deep (DCP) capillary plexuses of the macula and radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP) and FAZ area. Structural OCT parameters (RNFL, GCC, rim area) and visual field tests (MD, PSD) were also performed. Results: Glaucoma eyes showed significantly thicker arteriole walls (12.8 ± 1.4 vs. 12.2 ± 1.3 µm; p = 0.030), narrower lumens (85.5 ± 10.4 vs. 100.6 ± 11.1 µm; p < 0.001), smaller total diameters (111.0 ± 10.4 vs. 124.1 ± 12.4 µm; p < 0.001), and higher WLRs (0.301 ± 0.04 vs. 0.238 ± 0.002; p < 0.001) than healthy eyes. In glaucoma patients, OCTA revealed significantly reduced vessel densities in SCP (36.39 ± 3.60 vs. 38.46 ± 1.41; p < 0.001), DCP (36.39 ± 3.60 vs. 38.46 ± 1.41; p < 0.001), and RPCP plexuses (35.42 ± 4.97 vs. 39.27 ± 1.48; p < 0.001). The FAZ area was enlarged in eyes with glaucoma (0.546 ± 0.299 vs. 0.295 ± 0.125 mm2); p < 0.001). Positive correlations were found between vessel densities and OCT parameters (RNFL, r = 0.621; GCC, r = 0.536; rim area, r = 0.489), while negative correlations were observed with visual field deficits (r = −0.517). Conclusions: Vascular deterioration, assessed by AO rtx1™ and OCTA, correlates closely with structural and functional damage in glaucoma. Retinal microcirculation changes may precede structural abnormalities in the optic nerve head. Both imaging methods enable the earlier detection, staging, and monitoring of glaucoma compared to conventional tests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
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16 pages, 10545 KiB  
Article
Macular Microvasculature Is Different in Patients with Primary Sjögren’s Disease Compared to Healthy Controls
by Gyde Tadsen, Nadine Zehrfeld, Laura Hoffmann, Marten Gehlhaar, Bettina Hohberger, Christian Mardin, Torsten Witte, Carsten Framme, Diana Ernst and Katerina Hufendiek
Diagnostics 2025, 15(13), 1701; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15131701 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study investigates the macular microvasculature in a large cohort of primary Sjögren’s disease (SjD) patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), focusing on how disease duration, activity, and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) treatment influence retinal microcirculation. Methods: A total of 106 eyes [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study investigates the macular microvasculature in a large cohort of primary Sjögren’s disease (SjD) patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), focusing on how disease duration, activity, and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) treatment influence retinal microcirculation. Methods: A total of 106 eyes (53 SjD patients) and 70 eyes (35 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs)) were examined. The vessel area density (VAD, %) and foveal avascular zone (FAZ, mm2) were measured in three retinal layers: Superficial Vascular Plexus (SVP), Intermediate Capillary Plexus (ICP), and Deep Capillary Plexus (DCP), respectively, in three peri-macular circular sectors (c1, c2, c3) each. Results: The VAD was significantly lower in c1 of the DCP in SjD compared to HCs (29.14 ± 7.07 vs. 31.78 ± 9.55, p = 0.038). The FAZ was significantly larger in SjD in both SVP (0.41 ± 0.13 vs. 0.34, 0.11, p < 0.001; Cohen’s |d| = 0.55) and DCP (0.45 ± 0.15 vs. 0.4 ± 0.14, p = 0.014; Cohen’s |d| ± 0.38). Significant correlations were observed between the FAZ size and reductions in the VAD in the SVP and DCP (p = 0.010, Cohen’s |d| = 0.2; p < 0.001, Cohen’s |d| ± 0.26) and across all layers combined (p = 0.019, Cohen’s |d| = −0.18). Conclusions: There was a negative correlation between the VAD in the DCP and disease duration (ρ = −0.28, p = 0.040). No significant correlation was identified between the duration of HCQ intake and the VAD or FAZ. Our findings indicate microvascular alterations in the DCP of SjD, characterized by a reduced VAD and an enlarged FAZ, which may be attributable to inflammatory or arteriosclerotic factors. OCTA may prove to be a valuable tool for the stratification of vascular risk in SjD. Full article
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6 pages, 3494 KiB  
Case Report
A Clinical Case of Aneurysmal Dilatation of the Aortic Arch Distal to the Origin of an Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery Treated with Castor Single-Branch Stent Graft Implantation and Right Carotid-Subclavian Bypass
by Antonio Rizza, Silvia Di Sibio, Angela Buonpane, Giancarlo Trimarchi, Marta Casula, Michele Murzi, Pierandrea Farneti, Cataldo Palmieri, Marco Solinas and Sergio Berti
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(7), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12070251 - 29 Jun 2025
Viewed by 333
Abstract
Advancements in endovascular stent graft design have enabled the treatment of distal aortic arch pathologies. However, the length of the proximal landing zone remains a limitation, especially with vascular anomalies like an aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) posing additional challenges. A 78-year-old patient [...] Read more.
Advancements in endovascular stent graft design have enabled the treatment of distal aortic arch pathologies. However, the length of the proximal landing zone remains a limitation, especially with vascular anomalies like an aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) posing additional challenges. A 78-year-old patient underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA), which revealed progressive enlargement of a distal aortic arch aneurysm located beyond an ARSA that coursed between the esophagus and trachea. Following evaluation by the multidisciplinary Aortic Team, a hybrid procedure was planned. A right carotid-to-ARSA bypass was performed and a Castor single-branched stent graft (CSBSG) was deployed in the aortic arch with its side branch directed into the left subclavian artery (LSA), thereby covering the origin of the ARSA. To prevent a type II endoleak, plug embolization of the ARSA origin was subsequently performed. CSBSG is a feasible treatment for distal aortic arch aneurysms, even in the presence of vascular anomalies such as ARSA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiac Development and Regeneration)
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14 pages, 2464 KiB  
Article
Salvia miltiorrhiza Root Extract as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for IgE/Ag-Induced Allergic Reactions and Atopic Dermatitis via the Syk/MAPK Pathway
by Min-ah Kim, Jin-Ho Lee, Keunjung Woo, Eunwoo Jeong and Tack-Joong Kim
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1547; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071547 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 427
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Allergens can trigger severe immune responses in hypersensitive individuals, with mast cells releasing inflammatory mediators via IgE-FcɛRI signaling. Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) is a key regulator in this pathway, making it a promising therapeutic target. Natural modulators of Syk-mediated mast cell [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Allergens can trigger severe immune responses in hypersensitive individuals, with mast cells releasing inflammatory mediators via IgE-FcɛRI signaling. Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) is a key regulator in this pathway, making it a promising therapeutic target. Natural modulators of Syk-mediated mast cell activation remain underexplored. This study investigated the anti-allergic effects of a 70% ethanol extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (SME) using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods: SME was evaluated using IgE-sensitized RBL-2H3 cells, a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model, and a DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis-like mouse model. Allergic responses were assessed via degranulation assays, histopathology, serum IgE levels, and the spleen index. Results: SME significantly inhibited mast cell degranulation by 44.4 ± 1.6% in RBL-2H3 cells at 100 µg/mL following 30 min of treatment compared to the untreated control. Western blot analysis demonstrated dose-dependent suppression of protein kinase B (PKB, also known as AKT), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) phosphorylation, indicating inhibition of key allergic signaling pathways. In an IgE/Ag-induced passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model in ICR mice, SME (100 mg/kg, orally) significantly attenuated vascular permeability, as evidenced by a 20.6 ± 9.7% reduction in Evans blue extravasation relative to the Ag-treated group. In a 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD)-like model, six treatments of SME significantly improved the skin condition, reduced spleen enlargement associated with allergic inflammation, and decreased serum IgE levels by 43.3 ± 11.2% compared to the DNCB group. Conclusions: These findings suggest that SME may help to alleviate allergic responses and AD by modulating key immune signaling pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)
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14 pages, 6680 KiB  
Article
Early Vascular Developmental Toxicity and Underlying Mechanisms of 1-Bromo-3,6-dichlorocarbazole (1-B-36-CCZ) in Zebrafish Larvae
by Jie Gu, Ziyu Gong, Yue Fan, Jun Hu, Liguo Guo, Wenming Pei and Daqiang Yin
Biology 2025, 14(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060659 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 518
Abstract
Polyhalogenated carbazoles (PHCZs) are emerging persistent organic pollutants that have attracted widespread attention due to their environmental occurrence and potential ecological risks. 1-Bromo-3,6-dichlorocarbazole (1-B-36-CCZ), which is a typical homolog of PHCZs produced as a byproduct in the dye industry, has been widely detected [...] Read more.
Polyhalogenated carbazoles (PHCZs) are emerging persistent organic pollutants that have attracted widespread attention due to their environmental occurrence and potential ecological risks. 1-Bromo-3,6-dichlorocarbazole (1-B-36-CCZ), which is a typical homolog of PHCZs produced as a byproduct in the dye industry, has been widely detected in various environmental media. In this study, we employed an integrated approach using an in vivo zebrafish model and network toxicology methods to systematically evaluate the vascular developmental toxicity of 1-B-36-CCZ and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. The experimental results revealed that the 96 h-LC50 of 1-B-36-CCZ in zebrafish larvae was 4.52 mg/L. Sublethal exposures (0.045–45 μg/L) significantly induced an increase in heart rate (p < 0.05) and an enlargement of the pericardial edema area (p < 0.01). Using Tg(flk:eGFP) transgenic zebrafish embryos to assess vascular toxicity at concentrations of 0, 0.045, 0.45, 4.5, and 45 μg/L, we observed that 1-B-36-CCZ exposure significantly reduced the length and anastomosis rate of intersegmental vessels (ISVs) at 30 hpf, and inhibited the development of the common cardinal vein (CCV) at 48 and 72 hpf as well as the subintestinal vessel (SIV) at 72 hpf. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis further revealed that the expression of key angiogenic genes (flk, kdr, and vegfa) was significantly downregulated, thus corroborating the phenotypic observations. Moreover, a “compound–target–pathway” network model predicted that SRC kinase is a key molecular target for 1-B-36-CCZ action. Enrichment analysis of target protein-coding genes and verapamil replication experiments indicated that 1-B-36-CCZ may cause damage to early vascular development in zebrafish larvae by altering intracellular calcium ion content through the activation of the SRC-mediated calcium ion signaling pathway. This study provides new experimental evidence for elucidating the toxic mechanisms of PHCZ-type pollutants and offers a theoretical basis for environmental health risk assessments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Aquatic Ecological Disasters and Toxicology)
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24 pages, 11957 KiB  
Article
DoDELLA-GAI2 Integrates Gibberellin and Ethylene Signaling to Regulate Chinese Yam (Dioscorea opposita) Tuber Development
by Mingran Ge, Yanfang Zhang, Yanping Xing, Linan Xing, Huiqin Miao and Xiuwen Huo
Biology 2025, 14(6), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14060635 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 478
Abstract
Yam (Dioscorea opposita) tuber development is a complex process regulated by various phytohormones, with gibberellin (GA) playing a crucial role. However, the underlying mechanisms and interaction of GA with other phytohormone pathways on yam tuber development remain incompletely understood. This study [...] Read more.
Yam (Dioscorea opposita) tuber development is a complex process regulated by various phytohormones, with gibberellin (GA) playing a crucial role. However, the underlying mechanisms and interaction of GA with other phytohormone pathways on yam tuber development remain incompletely understood. This study investigated the regulatory role of GA and its crosstalk with other phytohormones during yam tuber growth through phenotypic, cytological, physiological, and transcriptomic as well as targeted phytohormone metabolomics analyses. The results reveal that exogenous GA promoted tuber enlargement increases vascular bundle and the number and diameter of sieve tubes, and alters the expression of GA anabolism genes and GA signal transduction pathways. Integrated transcriptome and targeted metabolomics analyses revealed coordinated changes in GA and ethylene (ETH) biosynthesis and signaling pathways during tuber development, particularly DELLA-GAI2 acting as a negative regulator of GA signaling. Overexpression of DoDELLA-GAI2 in transgenic tobacco significantly reduced GA level, starch, cytokinin (CTK), and ETH content, as well as aerenchyma tissue growth and parenchyma cell size. Exogenous GA and ethephon treatments increased GA, starch, CTK, and ETH content, and downregulated DoDELLA-GAI2 gene expression. The yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays confirmed a direct interaction between DoDELLA-GAI2 and DoMTCPB, an upstream gene-encoding key enzyme in ETH biosynthesis. DoDELLA-GAI2 acts as a negative regulator of ETH synthesis by interacting with DoMTCPB. GA-induced degradation of DoDELLA-GAI2 relieves this inhibition, promoting ETH production and contributing to tuber growth. Taken together, our findings reveal a novel mechanism based on DoDELLA-GAI2 integrating the GA and ETH signaling processes to regulate tuber development in D. opposita, offering a potential target for improving yam crop productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)
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21 pages, 1248 KiB  
Review
The Molecular and Cellular Basis of Physiological Changes in Pregnancy and Its Implications in Neurologic and Ophthalmic Pathologies
by Yi-Ting Chiang, Jie-Hong Chen and Kuo-Hu Chen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5220; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115220 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 1288
Abstract
Pregnancy orchestrates profound neurological, hormonal, and anatomical transformations in the maternal brain, preparing it for caregiving and infant bonding. Neuroimaging reveals structural changes such as gray matter reductions and white matter reorganization during pregnancy, followed by partial recovery postpartum. These adaptations are modulated [...] Read more.
Pregnancy orchestrates profound neurological, hormonal, and anatomical transformations in the maternal brain, preparing it for caregiving and infant bonding. Neuroimaging reveals structural changes such as gray matter reductions and white matter reorganization during pregnancy, followed by partial recovery postpartum. These adaptations are modulated by fluctuating levels of estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and oxytocin, which coordinate neuroplasticity and behavioral readiness. At the molecular and cellular levels, pregnancy hormones drive synaptic remodeling, neurogenesis, and glial activity. Together, these changes support maternal motivation, attachment, and responsiveness, highlighting the maternal brain’s dynamic plasticity across gestation and the postpartum period. Also, pregnancy induces profound physiological changes, particularly in vascular, hormonal, and neurologic systems, to support maternal and fetal health. While these adaptations are essential, they can predispose pregnant individuals to various neurologic and ophthalmic pathologies. This review explores how pregnancy-related changes—including hypercoagulability, pituitary enlargement, hormonal fluctuations, and immunological modulation—contribute to conditions such as stroke, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, preeclampsia-associated visual disturbances, and demyelinating disorders like neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, ocular manifestations of systemic diseases like diabetic retinopathy and thyroid orbitopathy are discussed. Understanding these complex interactions is critical for prompt recognition, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate management of vision-threatening and neurologically significant complications during pregnancy. Nevertheless, many aspects of physiological and pathological changes during and after pregnancy remain unknown and warrant further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
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15 pages, 2568 KiB  
Article
Patient-Reported Outcomes and Psychosocial Impact of Vascular Malformations in Asian Patients
by Hechen Jia, Hongyuan Liu, Xi Yang, Zi’an Xu, Lan Luo, Yuyan Zhang, Chen Hua and Xiaoxi Lin
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 3799; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14113799 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
Background: Vascular malformations (VAMs) impose multifaceted burdens extending beyond physical impairments to psychosocial dysfunction. While prior studies predominantly utilized generic quality-of-life instruments, disease-specific tools are critical for addressing heterogeneous symptom profiles and sociocultural variability, particularly in understudied Asian populations. This study investigated [...] Read more.
Background: Vascular malformations (VAMs) impose multifaceted burdens extending beyond physical impairments to psychosocial dysfunction. While prior studies predominantly utilized generic quality-of-life instruments, disease-specific tools are critical for addressing heterogeneous symptom profiles and sociocultural variability, particularly in understudied Asian populations. This study investigated psychosocial impacts across pediatric and adult VAM patients via validated, condition-specific measures. Methods: A prospective cohort of 233 hospitalized VAM patients (114 pediatric patients, 119 adult patients) completed the OVAMA questionnaire, and 114 adult, 68 pediatric patients, and 115 parent-proxies completed corresponding PROMIS questionnaires. The subtypes included arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), venous/lymphatic/lymphovenous malformations (VMs/LMs/LVMs), port-wine stains (PWSs), and other vascular malformations. Statistical analyses (Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, linear regression) were used to evaluate associations between demographics, clinical characteristics, and psychosocial outcomes. Results: Compared with children, adults reported significantly greater distress related to general (p = 0.004) and appearance (p = 0.003) problems. Compared with AVM (p = 0.01) and PWS (p = 0.041) patients, VM/LM/LVM patients presented elevated general problem scores. Pain and bleeding were related to general problems, whereas temporary enlargement was related togeneral and appearance problems. The PROMIS results revealed that 42.1% of adults had below-normal psychosocial-positive scores, whereas 33% demonstrated abnormal psychosocial-negative scores. Pediatric self-reports were associated with higher anxiety and depression rates than parent proxies were, with the VM/LM/LVM subgroups reporting poorer family relationships (p = 0.0062) and life purposes (p = 0.0075). Treatment frequency was correlated with increased psychological stress in children (p = 0.007). Conclusion: VAMs significantly impair psychosocial functioning across all ages, with adults experiencing heightened distress and social role deficits. Pediatric patients with low-flow malformations (VMs/LMs/LVMs) face compound depressive symptoms and familial strain. Disease-specific tools such as OVAMA and PROMIS are essential for comprehensive assessments, guiding tailored interventions to address both physical and psychosocial burdens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Pediatrics)
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6 pages, 1075 KiB  
Interesting Images
Complex Cerebral Artery Anomaly Rete-like Formation of the Terminal Carotid and Middle Cerebral Arteries with Bilateral A1 Segments Fenestrations
by Dragoslav Nestorovic, Igor Nikolic, Andrija Savic, Drazen Radanovic, Marko Miletic and Vladimir Cvetic
Diagnostics 2025, 15(11), 1333; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15111333 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 1122
Abstract
We present a rare case of a 16-year-old male who was admitted with bilateral tinnitus and subsequently underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for further evaluation. The left internal carotid (ICA) artery had a normal caliber but ended as [...] Read more.
We present a rare case of a 16-year-old male who was admitted with bilateral tinnitus and subsequently underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for further evaluation. The left internal carotid (ICA) artery had a normal caliber but ended as a stump at the C7 segment, with a network of filiform vessels from both the stump and right posterior communicating artery (PComm). The right PComm was hypertrophic and the right posterior cerebral artery (PCA) was mainly supplied by the right ICA. The right ICA’s bifurcation and the initial middle cerebral artery (MCA) segment were absent, while the MCA trunk was hypoplastic. The right PCA and pial branches vascularized the temporal lobe, with collaterals between the PCA and MCA. The left ICA was slightly enlarged with double fenestration at the left A1 segment. The right A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery had double fenestration and while several diagnoses were considered, no single diagnosis fully explained all clinical findings. A thorough review of the existing literature yielded no comparable cases, highlighting the uniqueness of this presentation. This case emphasizes the complexity of cerebral vascular anomalies and the challenges associated with diagnosing such rare conditions, underscoring the need for careful assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
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9 pages, 553 KiB  
Case Report
Oncocytic Adenoma in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review
by Roberto Paparella, Giulia Bellone, Laura Rizza, Norman Veccia, Gabriele Ricci, Mauro Calvani and Salvatore Scommegna
Endocrines 2025, 6(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines6020022 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 513
Abstract
Background: Oncocytic adenomas (OAs) of the thyroid, previously referred to as Hürthle cell adenomas, are uncommon tumors, particularly in pediatric populations, where they represent a minority of thyroid nodules. Due to their rarity and the potential difficulty in distinguishing benign from malignant [...] Read more.
Background: Oncocytic adenomas (OAs) of the thyroid, previously referred to as Hürthle cell adenomas, are uncommon tumors, particularly in pediatric populations, where they represent a minority of thyroid nodules. Due to their rarity and the potential difficulty in distinguishing benign from malignant forms on cytology, these adenomas present unique diagnostic and management challenges. Here, we report a pediatric case of a large OA of the thyroid, managed with surgical resection following inconclusive fine-needle aspiration (FNA) results. Case Presentation: A 13-year-old girl presented with an enlarging thyroid nodule. An ultrasound examination showed a large (26 × 16 mm), solid, isoechoic nodule with a hypoechoic halo. The FNA findings were inconclusive, indicating a follicular neoplasm with oncocytic features, classified as Bethesda IV. The patient underwent a hemithyroidectomy, and a histopathological examination confirmed an encapsulated OA without evidence of capsular or vascular invasion. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and follow-up assessments showed no recurrence. Conclusions: OAs in pediatric patients are rare and may pose diagnostic challenges. This case highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach, including surgical resection, for definitive diagnoses in cases where FNA results are inconclusive. Further studies are warranted to establish guidelines for the management of oncocytic thyroid neoplasms in pediatric patients, as well as to understand their clinical behavior in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Endocrinology and Growth Disorders)
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16 pages, 5239 KiB  
Article
Hyperhydricity-Induced Physiological Changes and Catechin Accumulation in Blueberry Hybrids (Vaccinium corymbosum × V. angustifolium)
by Rajesh Barua, Sayani Kundu, Abir U. Igamberdiev and Samir C. Debnath
Horticulturae 2025, 11(4), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040418 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
Hyperhydricity is a significant challenge in the tissue culture of blueberry plantlets, affecting their propagation, survival and quality, which results in economic losses for industrial blueberry micropropagation. The in vitro liquid propagation of two half-highbush blueberry hybrids, HB1 and HB2, [...] Read more.
Hyperhydricity is a significant challenge in the tissue culture of blueberry plantlets, affecting their propagation, survival and quality, which results in economic losses for industrial blueberry micropropagation. The in vitro liquid propagation of two half-highbush blueberry hybrids, HB1 and HB2, showed that a Growtek stationary bioreactor culture system containing a liquid medium exhibited a higher hyperhydricity percentage than a Sigma glass culture system with a semi-solid medium. The percentage of hyperhydricity (75.21 ± 1.89%) and water content (72%) of HB2 was more than that of HB1. A scanning electron microscopy study revealed that hyperhydric plantlets from both genotypes developed slowly, had closed stomata, and displayed enlarged intercellular spaces between the palisade and spongy parenchyma layers. Disrupted vascular bundles, underdeveloped sieve elements and a weak connection between phloem and xylem tissue were also observed in hyperhydric plantlets. An analysis of mesophyll and stem tissues highlighted a compressed adaxial epidermis, which led to compact palisade parenchyma, with irregularly shaped mesophyll cells. Hyperhydric plants showed strong nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals in the aliphatic, aromatic, and sugar regions, specifically at peaks of 2.0, 2.5, 4.0, 4.5, 6.0, and 6.7 ppm. These signals were attributed to the presence of catechin (C15H14O6), a flavonoid compound, suggesting its significant role or accumulation in these plants under hyperhydric conditions. Despite the negative effects of hyperhydricity on commercial propagation, hyperhydric plants were found to contain higher levels of valuable untargeted metabolites, such as β-P-arbutin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, epicatechin, 2-O-caffeoyl arbutin, various fatty acids, β-glucose, linolenic acid, and acetyl than both in vitro and ex vitro conditions. The enrichment of bioactive compounds in blueberry enhances its antioxidant properties, nutritional profile, and potential health benefits, making them significant for plant defense mechanisms and stress adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Insights into Horticultural Crop Ecophysiology)
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30 pages, 2050 KiB  
Systematic Review
Recurrence-Free Survival in Composite Hemangioendothelioma: A Case Study and Updated Systematic Review
by Milorad Reljic, Nina Rajovic, Jelena Rakocevic, Boris Tadic, Ksenija Markovic, Slavenko Ostojic, Milos Raspopovic, Borislav Toskovic, Jelena Vladicic Masic, Srdjan Masic, Natasa Milic and Djordje Knezevic
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2541; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082541 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 657
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Composite hemangioendothelioma (CHE) is a rare vascular endothelial tumor with borderline malignancy. This study presents a case of CHE and an updated systematic review of previously reported cases, providing insights into recurrence patterns and survival outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive electronic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Composite hemangioendothelioma (CHE) is a rare vascular endothelial tumor with borderline malignancy. This study presents a case of CHE and an updated systematic review of previously reported cases, providing insights into recurrence patterns and survival outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science up to 31 December 2024, to identify eligible case reports. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to estimate event-free survival. Results: We report a 61-year-old man with a splenic lesion associated with weight loss and abdominal pain persisting for 1 year. Intraoperative findings revealed an enlarged spleen and multiple hepatic deposits. Splenectomy and liver biopsy revealed a well-demarcated, nodular tumor measuring 160 × 145 × 100 mm, with histological and immunohistochemical findings consistent with CHE, complicated by hepatic metastasis. Of 405 potentially eligible studies, 59 were included in the review, covering cases from 2000 to 2024, with a peak in 2020 and 2023. The median age of patients was 42 years, with the most common tumor sites being the lower extremities (30.48%), followed by the face, head, and neck (20.95%), and upper extremities (18.1%). Surgical intervention was the most common treatment (60.95%). Recurrence-free survival was observed in 42.86% of cases, while 15.24% experienced recurrence with or without metastasis. Two patients (1.90%) died from the disease. The median recurrence-free survival was 48 months (95% CI: 7.3–88.7). Conclusions: CHE exhibits significant morphological variation and can mimic other vascular tumors. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for proper prognosis and avoiding overtreatment due to misdiagnosis as more aggressive neoplasms. Patients with high-risk CHE should undergo closer surveillance to ensure timely detection of progression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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16 pages, 4980 KiB  
Case Report
Complex Anatomy, Advanced Techniques: Microsurgical Clipping of a Ruptured Hypophyseal Artery Aneurysm
by Corneliu Toader, Matei Serban, Nicolaie Dobrin, Razvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc, Mugurel Petrinel Radoi, Alexandru Vlad Ciurea and Octavian Munteanu
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2361; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072361 - 29 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 826
Abstract
Background: Ruptured intracranial aneurysms remain the subject of debate in their management, but the management of lesions located at high-risk locations, such as the hypophyseal artery, continue to prove to be a challenge in anatomical orientation and proximity to vascular structures. While endovascular [...] Read more.
Background: Ruptured intracranial aneurysms remain the subject of debate in their management, but the management of lesions located at high-risk locations, such as the hypophyseal artery, continue to prove to be a challenge in anatomical orientation and proximity to vascular structures. While endovascular therapies have changed the treatment paradigms, microsurgical clipping is the gold standard for wide-necked aneurysms for which endovascular techniques may be suboptimal. The successful treatment of a ruptured hypophyseal artery aneurysm in an elderly patient is described in this report, which highlights the importance of advanced imaging, careful technique, and new understanding of personalized aneurysm management. Methods: An 82-year-old woman was admitted with a thunderclap headache, alteration of consciousness and meningeal signs, suggestive of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). A non-contrast computed tomography (CT) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) confirmed a saccular 12 × 10 mm aneurysm with a broad 3.13 mm neck arising from the hypophyseal artery. The location and morphology of the aneurysm required microsurgical clipping, which was performed through a right pterional craniotomy. Results: Correct clip placement, complete exclusion of the aneurysm, and resorption of the subarachnoid blood were both observed on postoperative imaging. The neurological examination was completely normal, with no complications. Follow-up imaging at three months demonstrated stable, marked cerebral atrophy with compensatory ventricular enlargement without evidence of recurrence. Conclusions: This case illustrates the important role of micro-surgical clipping in anatomically complex aneurysms and its sustainable outcome and accuracy in cases where endovascular practices would have limitations. Advanced imaging, like three-dimensional DSA and intraoperative tools, have revolutionized precision surgery, allowing achievement of optimal outcomes, even for more-complicated cases. With an evolving, dynamic field and exciting new technologies coming to the fore—such as artificial intelligence to predict rupture risk and augmented reality navigation—decision-making and treatment of complex aneurysms will be optimized along secure pathways towards tailored, high-resolution treatment in the sense of personalized and yet high-precision care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intracranial Aneurysms: Diagnostics and Current Treatment)
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