World Journal of Clinical Cases

Not losing sight of the bigger picture of complications associated with post-polypectomy syndrome: A case report and review of literature
Suárez M, Martínez R and Santiago-Ramos PC
Post-polypectomy syndrome (PPS) is a rare but relevant complication of endoscopic colorectal polyp removal. Although its course is usually benign, it may conceal more severe conditions. This case report presents several complications resulting from a colorectal polypectomy.
Incidental detection of aortic valve fibroelastomas during endoscopic ultrasound for pancreatic evaluation: Three case reports
Elsayed G, Mohamed L, Almasaabi M, Barakat K, Taha R, AlQahtani MS, Makdisi G, Musa M, Alfadda A and Gadour E
Papillary fibroelastomas are rare, benign cardiac tumors typically found on the heart valves. This case series presents three patients with aortic valve fibroelastoma incidentally detected during endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for pancreatic and biliary pathologies. These cases highly get the potential of EUS in identifying subtle cardiac lesions during gastrointestinal evaluation, raise important questions about the true prevalence of these lesions, and highlight the need for established guidelines for their management and surveillance. The detection of fibroelastomas during routine EUS procedures emphasizes the importance of thorough assessment and multidisciplinary approaches in managing unexpected discoveries. This also highlights the potential thromboembolic risks associated with fibroelastomas and challenges in determining appropriate management strategies for patients who are asymptomatic.
Kirsten rat sarcoma G12C inhibitor treatment for a patient with relapsed metastatic lung adenocarcinoma: A case report
Gan L, Shen JF, Yao MX, Chen ZG and Zhuang ZX
Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is a commonly identified oncogenic driver in solid tumors, especially in non-small cell lung cancer. Until recently, KRAS was believed to be impossible to target because it lacks adenosine triphosphate-binding domains or other regions that allow specific small-molecule inhibitors to act. In this report, we described using KRAS at glycine 12 to cysteine (G12C) inhibitors as posterior line therapy in a patient with relapsed metastatic lung adenocarcinoma carrying KRAS G12C mutation.
Endogenous modulators in lung cancer
Patel N, Patel V and Surani S
This editorial aimed to consolidate current evidence on the role of major endogenous modulators-nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins (PGs), thromboxanes (TXs), and endothelins (ETs) in the lung carcinogenesis, their receptor-specific actions, compensatory feedback mechanisms, and their role in tumor immune evasion and angiogenesis. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar with free-text and MeSH combinations of terms including "lung cancer", "nitric oxide", "inducible NOS", "COX-2", "prostaglandin E", "thromboxane A", "endothelin", "angiogenesis", and "immunosuppression". We examined English-language publications for mechanistic data, preclinical models, and clinical correlates, and synthesized findings from both animal and human tissue studies. We highlight here the dual, concentration-dependent actions of NO, PG-E2's immunosuppressive and pro-angiogenic actions E-Prostanoid (EP2/EP4) receptors, thromboxane A's pro-metastatic functions by thromboxane receptor signaling and interaction with platelet-tumor interaction, and the underappreciated roles of ETs. We also point to gaps in the existing literature on the differential roles of other prostanoid subtypes (, PGI2, PGD2), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α's role in regulation of inflammatory cascades, and clinical significance of compensatory upregulation of TX synthase following cycloxygenase-2 inhibition. These observations underscore the potential need for receptor-targeted therapies, biomarker-guided patient stratification, and improved translational models to inform the development of personalized anti-inflammatory interventions in lung cancer.
Challenging diagnosis of groove pancreatitis with severe gastric outlet obstruction: A case report
Kim N, Lee H and Park D
Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare focal chronic pancreatitis of the pancreaticoduodenal groove that is usually diagnosed in chronic alcoholics. However, it is often difficult to differentiate from pancreatic or periampullary cancers. In this study, we report a case of GP with the rare symptom of severe gastric outlet obstruction.
Role of anti-inflammatory agent colchicine in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
English K and Uwibambe C
Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory alkaloid that reduces cardiovascular events through its actions on the interleukin(IL)-1β/IL-6/C-reactive protein pathway, which promotes the degradation and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Low-dose colchicine (0.5 mg/day) has been shown to decrease major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 31% among patients with stable atherosclerosis and 23% among those after a recent myocardial infarction. In patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) already taking a statin, colchicine in conjunction with lipid-lowering therapy has additionally been shown to provide a larger benefit with respect to secondary prevention of MACE. The drug is contraindicated in patients with renal or hepatic impairment and should be avoided in patients taking strong cytochrome P450 3A4 or P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Low-dose colchicine was recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2023 to reduce the risk of stroke, coronary revascularization, myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death among patients with atherosclerotic disease or multiple risk factors. This article focuses on the use of colchicine and its anti-inflammatory effects in preventing MACE among patients with CAD and patients without CAD with multiple risk factors.
Preventing transmission of dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria through preimplantation genetic testing: A case report
Wang XL, Zou T, Wu YC, Weng YY, Yao Q and Sun WW
Dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria (DUH) is a rare type of autosomal dominant inheritance disease. It has varying gene mutation sites among different ethnicities. and have been identified as the causative genes of this disorder.
Fever phobias, perception among caregivers across Nigerian states: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Chinawa A, Chime P, Onyia J, Agu G, Nwankwo O and Chinawa JM
There is a need to synthesize the different patterns of fever treatment and phobias in Nigeria and to document these behavioral issues among caregivers. Although, fever is commonly seen in children and this make the mothers to seek medical care when all effort of theirs have failed. Yet, this behavioral and anxiety disorders among mothers still persists several years after the word "Fever phobia" was coined.
Mantle cell lymphoma presenting primarily as cutaneous lesions: A case report
Zhou PY, Chen W and Wang L
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that rarely presents with cutaneous involvement, which typically occurs in advanced disease stages. Primary cutaneous manifestations are particularly uncommon and frequently misdiagnosed. We report a diagnostically challenging case of MCL that first appeared as a nodule on the lower leg.
Acquired cutaneous fistula in the periocular area: A case report
Panda BB, Kar A, Koppalu Lingaraju T and Ayyanar P
Lacrimal sac rhinosporidiosis, with nil or minor nasal extensions, rarely presents as an acquired cutaneous fistula in the periocular area. The correct diagnosis in such cases can be challenging, leading to repeated failure of conservative or surgical interventions.
When the diagnosis misses the mark: The psychiatric cost of misdiagnosing hypophosphatasia as fibromyalgia
Jetter EM and Lucke-Wold BP
Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare metabolic bone disorder often misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia due to overlapping symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, and muscle weakness. This diagnostic error disproportionately affects women and can result in significant psychological distress due to repeated dismissal of symptoms. Despite low serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) being a key biochemical clue to HPP, it is frequently overlooked in standard diagnostic evaluations. Consequently, many patients endure years of ineffective treatment, invalidation, and worsening psychiatric outcomes. This editorial emphasizes the need for greater clinical vigilance in distinguishing HPP from fibromyalgia, particularly when features such as chronic pain, premature tooth loss, and persistently low ALP are present. Gender biases in pain diagnosis further compound this problem, leading to greater misdiagnosis rates among women and contributing to the erosion of trust in medical care. The psychiatric consequences of diagnostic delays are substantial, with affected individuals experiencing elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and emotional distress. Greater recognition of low ALP as a meaningful diagnostic clue may enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the psychological toll of misdiagnosis.
Unexpected thrombocytopenia of a rare tamoxifen-induced complication in breast cancer therapy: A case report
Swamy AM, Sehrawat A and Sundriyal D
Tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, is pivotal in managing hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. While its common side effects are well-documented, tamoxifen-induced thrombocytopenia is a rare, serious adverse event requiring drug discontinuation.
Recognizing and addressing the challenges of concomitant cerebrocardiac infarction
Tian X, Zhang N and Liu T
In this article, we comment on the article by Zheng . This case report shed light on concomitant cerebrocardiac ischemic (CCI) in a 27-year-old male patient, which is defined as a concurrent acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and acute myocardial infarction event. The patient received urgent systemic thrombolysis at the standard dose for AIS and then planned percutaneous coronary intervention was successfully conducted for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treatment. Considering the rarity of the comorbidity, the narrow time window for treatment of both AIS and acute myocardial infarction, as well as the complexity and severity of the condition, there are still no guidelines or consensus that have systematically recommended optimal treatment strategies. The successful treatment of this 27-year-old man suggests that urgent thrombolysis followed by planned percutaneous coronary intervention might be an alternative treatment options in the management of concomitant CCI. However, emergency treatment plans need to be developed according to the specific situation of the patients. A number of factors should be considered when making decision, including the location of occlusion of heart and brain, the hemodynamic instability, the ongoing ischemic symptoms, the presence of contraindications to thrombolysis, and the speed of response of cardiologists or neurointerventionists. Future, further research involving multidisciplinary experts, including neurologist, cardiologist, and specialists in critical care medicine is needed to improve the understanding and management of concomitant CCI.
Beyond the optic disc: Investigating gender-based differences in optic neuritis
Zeppieri M, Nicolosi SG, D'Esposito F, Musa M, Avitabile A, Gagliano C, Battista M, Barboni P and Capobianco M
Optic neuritis (ON) is a focal inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the optic nerve. Although classically regarded as a sentinel event for multiple sclerosis (MS), ON also occurs in antibody-mediated entities such as aquaporin-4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) and myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein-antibody disease. In all these settings biological sex is a pivotal determinant of susceptibility, clinical expression, treatment response and long-term outcome. Data synthesized from an extensive literature analysis utilizing PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science in this review shows that women experience ON far more frequently - with female-to-male ratios ranging from 3:1 in MS to almost 9:1 in AQP4-NMOSD - yet men, when affected, tend to accumulate irreversible neuro-axonal loss more rapidly. Sex-specific patterns arise at every biological stratum: X-linked gene dosage, epigenetic regulation, hormonal cycles from puberty through menopause, metabolic co-modifiers such as obesity and vitamin-D status, and psychosocial forces that influence healthcare utilization. By weaving these elements into an expanded narrative, the present review provides a detailed resource for clinicians and investigators aiming at gender-tailored management of ON.
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in the modern era: A patient-centered approach
Galassi L, Santoro GD, Cugliari M and Schena D
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most frequent knee pathologies, with athletes-particularly females and those in pivot-heavy sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and skiing-at increased risk. The success of ACL reconstruction is multifactorial, relying on individualized graft selection, surgical precision, patient-specific characteristics, and optimized rehabilitation. Despite the availability of various graft options-hamstring tendon, bone-patellar tendon-bone, and quadriceps tendon-no single type has demonstrated clear superiority, reinforcing the need for patient-tailored approaches based on anatomical, functional, and age-related factors. Surgical techniques continue to evolve, with adaptations such as physeal-sparing methods for skeletally immature patients and minimally invasive procedures aimed at reducing morbidity and improving recovery. Rehabilitation is a critical determinant of functional outcomes. Current evidence supports immediate mobilization, early weight-bearing, and initiation of neuromuscular and strength training, while routine use of continuous passive motion and bracing is discouraged, except in multi-ligament injuries. Prehabilitation is recommended, though accelerated rehabilitation remains controversial. Implant choice and fixation strategy are also essential to long-term success. The use of materials that reduce the risk of chronic complications and support biological integration is increasingly favored. Nevertheless, rare mechanical failures emphasize the need for accurate tunnel placement, appropriate implant selection, and vigilant postoperative monitoring. Outcomes are further influenced by patient-specific variables, including bone quality, metabolic status, and physical activity levels. Optimal ACL reconstruction results from a comprehensive, patient-centered strategy that integrates surgical accuracy, individualized rehabilitation, and continuous follow-up to minimize complications and enhance recovery.
Digitally assisted conventional home-based rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair: A meta-analysis
Salimi M, Keshtkar A, Mosalamiaghili S, Sharafatvaziri A and Feeley BT
Rotator cuff tears are a chief cause of shoulder pain and disability, and surgical repair is often required when conservative management fails. As digital health technologies have expanded, especially since the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, digitally augmented rehabilitation programs emerged as a potential alternative to conventional physical therapy.
Liver failure due to metastatic melanoma: A case report
Domislovic V, Sesa V, Kosuta I, Bulimbasic S and Mrzljak A
Acute liver failure (ALF) due to diffuse hepatic infiltration by metastatic melanoma is extremely rare and often misdiagnosed. In the absence of prior malignancy, this presentation can mimic other hepatic emergencies such as Budd-Chiari syndrome. Early identification is crucial, especially in transplant candidates, to prevent inappropriate management.
Acute cholangitis due to common bile duct stones: Clinical outcomes in patients with and without concurrent acute pancreatitis
Liu KT, Lee MH, Lin CH, Tsou YK, Sung KF, Wang SF, Wu CH and Liu NJ
Patients with concurrent acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) and acute cholangitis (AC) may experience exacerbated clinical consequences due to bile duct stones. However, studies exploring this topic remain limited.
Applications and challenges of paclitaxel- coated balloons beyond coronary atherosclerotic heart disease
Wang Y, Gao DK, Tian Y, She LQ, Fu WL, Luo G, Zhou YL and Huang AX
Although drug-coated balloons (DCBs) were initially used for treating peripheral vascular diseases, with the growing popularity of the implant-free concept, they have gained increasing attention as a novel therapeutic strategy for coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. The clinical application scope of DCBs, represented by paclitaxel-coated balloons (PCBs), is constantly expanding. Their application fields are no longer limited to lesions of coronary artery and peripheral vascular diseases, and relevant research is also being actively advanced. In the field of arterial diseases, the application of PCBs has significantly extended. They are used in lower extremity arteries and hemodialysis access and play a role in renal artery fibromuscular dysplasia, and carotid/vertebrobasilar/intracranial arteries. PCBs also show unique value in the treatment of Takayasu arteritis, Kawasaki disease, coronary myocardial bridge, and pulmonary artery diseases. In the venous system, PCBs also have therapeutic potential, with research and clinical investigations now extending to lower extremity, central, and pulmonary vein diseases, and innovative solutions for graft stenosis. The application of PCBs is no longer confined to vascular diseases. They are gradually breaking through traditional boundaries in treating luminal disorders such as urethral, biliary, and esophageal strictures. This mini-review synthesizes existing clinical evidence and basic research findings to concisely analyze the mechanisms of action and biological effects of PCBs in noncoronary applications. A comprehensive analysis of current studies provides a reference for subsequent research and clinical practice in this field and explicitly identifies the challenges faced by current research, explores future directions, and facilitates the in-depth extension of DCB applications.
Clinicopathologic differences before and after elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy according to obesity
Noh BG, Seo HI, Park YM, Oh MH and Song SB
Although obesity is a well-established contributor to surgical risks, evidence regarding the specific outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in obese patients remains scarce.
Effect of water extract (Physta) on menopausal quality of life and mood states
Muniandy S, Yahya HM, Shahar S, Kamisan Atan I, Mahdy ZA, Rajab NF, Mohd Rasdi HF, George A and Chinnappan SM
Herbal supplements are increasingly used to manage menopausal symptoms. Physta is a commercial herbal ingredient containing standardized water extract, traditionally used for vitality. Its adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties promote hormonal balance, physical function, and sexual health, supporting its potential benefits for menopausal health.