Review of current and new drugs for the treatment of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease.

In the past 3 decades, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has emerged as a widespread liver condition, with its global prevalence on the rise. It ranks as a leading contributor to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and necessitates liver transplantation. Under the multiple parallel hits model, the pathogenesis of MAFLD stems from various liver stressors, notably nutrient overload and sedentary lifestyles.

Role of SGLT2 Inhibitors, DPP-4 Inhibitors, and Metformin in Pancreatic Cancer Prevention.

Pancreatic carcinoma is a highly aggressive tumor that usually presents when it has already metastasized. Therapeutic options for cure remain scarce and rely on combination chemotherapy with limited sustainability. Diabetes is considered an important risk factor for the development of pancreatic cancer due to the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which result in increased cell proliferation.

The Potential Role of Fecal Microbiota Transplant in the Reversal or Stabilization of Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms: A Literature Review on Efficacy and Safety.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects millions of people worldwide, and recent data have identified the potential role of the gut microbiome in inducing autoimmunity in MS patients. To investigate the potential of fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) as a treatment option for MS, we conducted a comprehensive literature search (PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane) and identified five studies that involved 15 adult MS patients who received FMT for gastrointestinal symptoms. The primary outcome of this review was to assess the effect of FMT in reversing and improving motor symptoms in MS patients, while the secondary outcome was to evaluate the safety of FMT in this patient population.

The Role of Anticoagulants and Antiplatelets in Reducing Mortality in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Studies Reporting Adjusted Data.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with prolonged prothrombin time (PT), active partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and increased D-dimer levels. Therefore, we aim to investigate if anticoagulants (AC) and antiplatelet (AP) therapy play a role in mitigating COVID-19 and its associated thrombosis along with its effect on the mortality rate, the need for mechanical ventilation, and the risk of hospital admission. Electronic databases were searched from their inception to July 19, 2022.

Test All for Hepatitis B Virus: Link to Care and Treatment if Quantitative DNA Positive, Vaccinate if Susceptible.

Hepatitis B infection affects approximately 262 million people worldwide and is responsible for 900,000 deaths annually. This article reviews the major factors limiting HBV elimination, which includes limited linkage to care and complicated HBV testing and treatment guidelines. The article then provides solutions to these pressing issues.

A Rare Case of Methotrexate-Induced Gastric Ulcer.

Methotrexate is commonly used to treat autoimmune conditions and malignancy. Peptic ulcer disease is a sparsely documented side effect of methotrexate. A 70-year-old female patient with rheumatoid arthritis on methotrexate presented with generalized fatigue and was found to be anemic.

Efficacy and Safety of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Treatment of Infection among Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background and Aims: Cases of Clostridioides difficile infection have been rising among the pediatric and adolescent population. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as an alternative therapy for recurrent C. difficile infection.

Knowledge and attitudes about burn complications in medical students.

Burn injury in developing countries is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Pakistan faces a widespread problem of burn complications. The objective of this cross sectional study was to assess knowledge and attitudes in medical students regarding burn complications.

Prevalence and Barriers to Lung Cancer Screening in Karachi, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Smokers and Physicians.

Background: Early detection of lung cancer using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) can potentially reduce morbidity and mortality. However, LDCT for lung cancer screening, especially in low income countries, has been underutilized. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and the potential personal, social, and economic barriers of lung cancer screening using LDCT.