The current case report presents the postmortem examination findings of a 17-week-old female fetus displaying thanatophoric dysplasia type 1 (TD-1) due to a known fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene mutation. Gross and X-ray examination revealed significant abnormalities, including skeletal malformations with prominent TD-1 femur curvature. Microscopical evaluation indicated inadequate histological growth for the gestational age, with specific organ immaturity noted in multiple hematoxylin and eosin sections from internal organs, bone from epiphyses and diaphyses levels. Immunohistochemical analysis was conducted using specific markers, such as S100, CD34, CD117, glycophorin-C, and myeloperoxidase, to identify various hematopoietic and mesenchymal cell types. Furthermore, this report underscores the often-overlooked aspect of fetal hematopoiesis in cases diagnosed with TD-1, shedding light on the development of hematopoietic cells and their markers in various tissues, with a particular emphasis on the investigation of bone marrow foci in areas with incipient or no apparent ossification. Immunohistochemical identification of hematopoiesis also served as an indirect way to identify areas of incipient or abnormal ossification.
BACKGROUND Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is identified as an outlier in the clinical practice of chronic pancreatitis caused by autoimmune system dysfunction. AIP is classified into 3 subtypes: AIP type 1 and AIP type 2, which are both sensitive to corticosteroids, and the recently introduced AIP type 3. CASE REPORT We present a case of a patient who presented with painless obstructive jaundice. Computed tomography (CT) revealed hyperdense gallbladder material, further dilatation of intrahepatic bile ducts, and distention of the bile duct (15 mm). Based on the available clinical data, which were strongly compatible with pancreatic cancer, Whipple surgery was selected as the treatment for this case. The consequent histopathological report revealed areas of pancreatic parenchyma with fibrous connective tissue development and dense inflammatory cell infiltration with lymphocytes and plasmacytes, which showcased IgG4 positivity. The clinical results suggested a diagnosis of AIP type 1, and the patient was referred to his treating physician for further treatment of AIP. Preoperative histological examination of the pancreas, along with evaluation of the radiological and serological features, could have aided in determining the diagnosis of AIP type 1 pancreatitis despite the unique abnormality of this particular case. CONCLUSIONS Given the aforementioned conditions, AIP, even as a rare clinical entity, emerges as a canonical ailment and should be considered a viable possibility in clinical practice since it can exclude the patient from an unnecessary surgery.
Mesh-augmented hernia repair is the gold standard in abdominal wall and hiatal/diaphragmatic hernia management and ranks among the most common procedures performed by general surgeons. However, it is associated with a series of drawbacks, including recurrence, mesh infection, and adhesion formation. To address these weaknesses, numerous biomaterials have been investigated for mesh coating. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous agent that promotes tissue healing through numerous cytokines and growth factors. In addition, many reports highlight its contribution to better integration of different types of coated meshes, compared to conventional uncoated meshes. The use of PRP-coated meshes for hernia repair has been reported in the literature, but a review of technical aspects and outcomes is missing. The aim of this comprehensive review is to report the experimental studies investigating the synergistic use of PRP and mesh implants in hernia animal models. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus without chronological constraints. In total, fourteen experimental and three clinical studies have been included. Among experimental trials, synthetic, biologic, and composite meshes were used in four, nine, and one study, respectively. In synthetic meshes, PRP-coating leads to increased antioxidant levels and collaged deposition, reduced oxidative stress, and improved inflammatory response, while studies on biological meshes revealed increased neovascularization and tissue integration, reduced inflammation, adhesion severity, and mechanical failure rates. Finally, PRP-coating of composite meshes results in reduced adhesions and improved mechanical strength. Despite the abundance of preclinical data, there is a scarcity of clinical studies, mainly due to the absence of an established protocol regarding PRP preparation and application. To this point in time, PRP has been used as a coating agent for the repair of abdominal and diaphragmatic hernias, as well as for mesh fixation. Clinical application of conclusions drawn from experimental studies may lead to improved results in hernia repair.
Introduction: The utilization of probiotics in enhancing the active healing of skin wounds represents a burgeoning trend in contemporary medicine. Previous research has extensively explored wound healing mechanisms involving the strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium longum. This study seeks to compare and interpret cellular findings derived from immunohistochemical and pathological applications. Methods: Three groups (the control, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (RO1) group, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum (PRO2) group) underwent histological analysis, and microscopic cell counting were employed, offering insights into dynamic changes among neutrophils, lymphocytes, plasmacytes, mast cells, fibroblasts, and newly formed vessels across distinct treatment groups and temporal intervals. Results: The neutrophil count was found to be elevated in PRO2 on day 2, while the same group resulted in the highest decline on day 15. The number of fibroblasts peaked on day 4 for the PRO1 group, compared to the other two groups, which peaked on day 8. The lymphocyte count was the highest in the control group, while they peaked on day 4 in PRO2. The mast cells and plasmacytes were variable and sparse among all groups and time frames. Neovascularization was promoted by PRO1 and PRO2 groups on day 4 and remained high on day 8 for PRO2. Conclusions: Probiotic strains can be beneficial to the human population and in assisting skin wound healing, each strain working differently and more effectively in different healing phases. Thus, a combined formula containing different probiotics to modulate various healing phases is desirable.
Objective: Rare disease Background: Elastofibroma dorsi is a rare, benign soft-tissue tumor, emerging in the subscapular area and exhibiting higher prevalence in elderly women. Despite its slow growth rate and asymptomatic nature in most patients, elastofibroma can cause swelling, pain, and discomfort during shoulder movements. Imaging and histopathologic data combined with a detailed history are essential to exclude malignancies and provide suitable treatment. Case Report: This report describes the case of a 78-year-old man with an incidental finding of elastofibroma dorsi, presenting as an asymptomatic left subscapular mass. Physical examination revealed the mass, the presence of which was later confirmed through an MRI scan. The tumor was surgically excised without any postoperative complications. Histopathologic findings from a biopsy supported the diagnosis of elastofibroma dorsi, showing an abundance of thick and irregular elastic fibers, giving a "rope-like" appearance in hematoxylin and eosin stain. and appearance evident. The patient was then discharged from our hospital and made a complete recovery. Conclusions: Despite its benign nature and rarity, elastofibroma dorsi should be included in the differential diagnosis of sub- scapular masses. Proper imaging and histopathological examination are crucial for a definitive diagnosis, to ensure that patients receive the appropriate and necessary treatment and guidance. Furthermore, additional research is needed to completely clarify the pathophysiologic mechanism responsible for the development of elastofibroma dorsi.
Absorbable, biosynthetic scaffolds are a promising option for repair of diaphragmatic defects, since they are associated with less mesh-related complications than non-absorbable synthetic meshes. Coating of absorbable synthetic meshes with anti-inflammatory and healing agents, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), is a widely studied technique for improving mesh-tissue integration and reducing recurrence rate. The aim of this study is to investigate the synergic effect of a PRP-coated synthetic absorbable polyglactin mesh 2cmx2cm in healing of a diaphragmatic defect in an experimental rabbit model. Animals will be equally randomised in the PGM-PRP group (absorbable polyglactin mesh enriched with PRP) or the PGM group (use of absorbable polyglactin mesh only). Rabbits will undergo laparotomy under general anaesthesia and resection of a portion of the diaphragmatic central tendon 1cmx1cm. Samples will be euthanised on the 91th postoperative day and samples of 3cmx3cm will be harvested. The mesh-tissue integration will be assessed based on macroscopic, microscopic, immunohistochemical and morphometric parameters. The study is indesign stage and results are expected to be available by the end of the following year. High-quality evidence is expected regarding the synergic effect of PRP and synthetic absorbable polyglactin meshes in diaphragm repair.
Synchronous primary pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is very rare and can be formed either through multicentric carcinogenesis or intrapancreatic metastasis. We report the case of an 80-year-old man with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented with abdominal pain and weight loss. Laboratory tests showed elevated levels of blood glucose and CA 19-9, and Computed Tomography revealed two hypoenhancing lesions in the head and tail of the pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasound, which is the imaging method of choice for pancreatic cancer, was performed with a fine needle biopsy, and the cytological analysis diagnosed PDAC in both lesions. The patient underwent total pancreatectomy, and pathologic evaluation revealed synchronous primary PDAC with moderate to poor differentiation in the head and tail in the setting of IPMN (intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia) and chronic pancreatitis. After his recovery from postoperative pulmonary embolism, the patient was discharged home with sufficient glycemic control. Multifocal PDAC occurs more often when precursor lesions, such as IPMN, pre-exist. The optimal treatment for multiple lesions spread all over the pancreas is total pancreatectomy. Diabetes mellitus is a serious complication of total pancreatectomy (new-onset or type 3c), but overall, long-term survival has been significantly improved.
Ampullary large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LCNECs) are extremely rare, and available data are limited on case reports. They present with jaundice, non-specific abdominal pain, or weight loss, imitating adenocarcinoma. Their incidence increases due to the improved diagnostic techniques. However, preoperative diagnosis remains challenging. We report the case of a 70-year-old man with a history of metabolic syndrome, cholecystectomy, and right hemicolectomy, presenting with jaundice. Laboratory results showed increased liver biochemistry indicators and elevated CA 19-9. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed an ulcerative tumor on the ampulla of Vater, and the biopsy revealed neuroendocrine carcinoma. Although computed tomography (CT) detected enlarged regional lymph nodes, the positron emission tomography (PET) showed a hyperactive lesion only in this area. Pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy with R0 resection was performed. Pathologic evaluation of the 3.1 × 1.9 cm tumor revealed an LCNEC with immunohistochemical positivity at Synaptophysin, EMA, CD56, and cytokeratin CK8/18. The Ki-67 index was 45%. Two out of the nine dissected lymph nodes were occupied by the neoplasm. The patient was discharged home free of symptoms, and adjuvant chemotherapy with carboplatin + etoposide was initiated. A comprehensive review of the reported cases showed that the preoperative biopsy result was different from the final diagnosis in few cases, regarding the subtypes. Conventional radiology cannot identify small masses, and other methods, such as endoscopy, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and FDG-PET scan, might aid the diagnosis. Diagnosis is based on histology and immunohistochemical markers of the surgical specimens. The treatment of choice is pancreatoduodenectomy, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. However, recurrence is frequent, and the prognosis remains poor.
Introduction and importance:Ectopic Pancreas (EP) is a rare condition that is mostly found in the Gastrointestinal tract and especially in the stomach. Although the lesion is mainly asymptomatic, non-specific symptoms can be present, making the diagnosis even more challenging.Case presentation:In our case a 52-year-old woman, with heartburn as the only symptom, was undergone successive examinations, indicating a subepithelial lesion in the antrum of the stomach, from which only Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) indicated the presence of ectopic pancreas, while Computed Tomography results considered the mass as Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor. Wedge gastrectomy was performed in order to extract the lesion and the histopathological examination confirmed the findings of the MRI. The patient fully recovered with no complications.Clinical discussion:In most cases, EP is described in endoscopy as a subepithelial mass with normal mucosa. As EP can mimic other subepithelial masses, even adenocarcinoma, it is of utmost importance not to omit the performance of surgical removal and histopathological examination. Consequently, resection is essential not only for the diagnosis but also for the treatment of the patient.Conclusion:EP is not a usually detected clinical pathology. There is no specific algorithm, which physicians should follow in order to reach the diagnosis without the surgical intervention. For this reason, clinicians should be conscious of the existence of EP in the stomach.
Nowadays, there is an increasing knowledge that probiotic bacteria, topically applied, affects skin pathology. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect on wound healing of locally applied probiotics by calculating the 3-D configuration of a standardized excisional wound. Fifty-two male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into groups: control, PRO1 [L. plantarum] and PRO2 [L. rhamnosus, B. longum]. Six excisional full-thickness wounds were created on each dorsum by an 8-mm circular biopsy punch; probiotics or saline were applied on days 0, 2, 4, 8, 16, photos of the wounds taken and specimens excised for histology [4 rats/group/time-point]. Both probiotic-groups exhibited accelerated healing significantly faster than the control, throughout, PRO2 exhibiting finally the best results [day 16]. However, only on day 2, did PRO1 exhibit the best results [wounded area, borders distance and epitheliazation line]. The results clearly demonstrate that the topical application of probiotics significantly improves the healing process, each strain working differently and more effectively in different healing phases. Thus, a combined formula containing different probiotics to modulate various healing phases is desirable. To this end our research continous.