Journal of Clinical Trials and Experimental Investigations

Stigma assessment: Scales review

2025-02-03T03:46:27+03:00

Objective: The assessment of stigma is a multifaceted process requiring a comprehensive understanding of stigma itself, quantification of its degree, evaluation of changes over time, and assessment of the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing or preventing it. This study aims to review some of the most widely used scales in health-related stigma assessment and to compare them in terms of their specific characteristics, strengths, and limitations.

Materials and methods: In January 2025, a review was conducted using the PubMed database to analyze publications addressing the assessment of stigma through scales or questionnaires. Specific descriptors were employed, focusing on mental illnesses, infectious diseases, overweight and obesity, and sexual and gender minorities. Comparative reviews and studies detailing the application and performance of these scales were included in the analysis.

Results: The review identified and compared 20 scales for assessing mental health stigma, 12 scales for stigma related to infectious diseases and symptoms, 17 scales for weight stigma, and 17 scales for stigma affecting sexual and gender minorities.

Conclusion: Stigma limits the life opportunities of individuals experiencing discrimination due to illness or personal and social circumstances. Most stigma assessment scales and questionnaires lack specificity, methodological rigor, and clear definitions tailored to the particular stigma being evaluated. Future research should prioritize the development of robust conceptual frameworks, enhance methodological validity, and promote early-stage interventions to mitigate harm caused by stigma.

Imaging modalities in the diagnosis and monitoring of IgG4-Related disease: Utilization patterns and clinical implications

2025-02-25T17:13:21+03:00

Objective: Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a chronic fibroinflammatory disorder affecting multiple organ systems, often requiring imaging for diagnosis and monitoring. Despite its critical role, an optimal imaging strategy, including modality preference and follow-up intervals, remains undefined. This study evaluates the utilization patterns of different imaging modalities in IgG4-RD.

Materials and methods: This retrospective, single-center study included 18 patients diagnosed with IgG4-RD according to ACR/EULAR criteria between May 2020 and December 2024. Clinical, laboratory, histopathological, and imaging data were collected. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET-CT) were analyzed for diagnostic and follow-up trends. Patients were stratified based on the presence of acute kidney injury (AKI) at diagnosis.

Results: At diagnosis, CT (83.3%) was the most frequently used modality, followed by PET-CT (61.1%) and MRI (27.8%). Combined imaging was performed in 66.6% of cases initially but declined during follow-up. The choice of the first follow-up imaging differed between patients with and without AKI (p=0.072). Notably, follow-up imaging intervals were significantly shorter in AKI patients (30.5 vs. 49 months, p=0.049). Over time, PET-CT use decreased, while MRI became the preferred modality. Despite these variations, no standardized follow-up approach was observed.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate a shift from multimodal to single-modality imaging during follow-up, with variations based on AKI status. The lack of a standardized imaging protocol indicates the need for consensus guidelines to enhance disease monitoring and optimize patient outcomes.

Cervico-thoracic necrotizing fasciitis in an adolescent: Delayed presentation, staged treatment, and long-term follow-up

2025-01-06T18:33:18+03:00

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe soft tissue infection characterized by rapid progression and significant morbidity and mortality. It predominantly affects immunocompromised adults, with cases in previously healthy adolescents are relatively rare. This case report describes the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and successful staged management of necrotizing fasciitis in a previously healthy 15-year-old male. The purpose of this report is to highlight the importance of early recognition, prompt surgical intervention, and multidisciplinary management in achieving a favorable outcome in pediatric patients with NF. By sharing this case, we aim to increase awareness and facilitate early diagnosis, ultimately improving patient outcomes.