2024 THE EXPO

Reversible airway diseases, including asthma and acute bronchial obstruction episodes, are conditions in which airway narrowing can be temporarily relieved with treatment. Unlike chronic, fixed airway obstruction seen in conditions like COPD, these diseases respond effectively to medications and lifestyle interventions, offering patients a chance to lead active lives with proper management.

Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and persistent coughing. These occur due to inflammation and constriction of the bronchi. Triggers vary from respiratory infections, allergens, air pollution, cold air, or exercise. Timely recognition of these signs is crucial to prevent worsening episodes and long-term airway damage.

Treatment focuses on two primary strategies: bronchodilation and inflammation control. Short-acting bronchodilators provide rapid relief by relaxing airway muscles, while long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, reduce inflammation and prevent recurrent flare-ups.

Lifestyle adjustments are also essential. Avoiding allergens, maintaining clean air indoors, practicing breathing exercises, and managing stress…

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) vasculitis, previously called Henoch-Schönlein purpura, is a systemic small-vessel vasculitis caused by immune complex deposition in the blood vessels. It primarily affects children but can occur in adults, often presenting with a combination of skin, joint, gastrointestinal, and kidney symptoms. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, IgA vasculitis is generally triggered by immune system dysregulation, often following infections, medications, or vaccinations.

The hallmark symptom of IgA vasculitis is a purplish rash called palpable purpura, commonly appearing on the lower legs, buttocks, and sometimes arms. Unlike simple bruising, this rash is raised, firm, and may be accompanied by mild itching or tenderness. In some cases, the rash is the first sign noticed by caregivers or patients themselves.

Joint involvement is another common feature. Patients frequently experience swelling, stiffness, and pain, particularly in the knees and ankles. Although joint symptoms are typically transient, they can be uncomfortable…

A proctoscope is a specialized medical instrument used to examine the anal canal and lower rectum. Though simple in design, it plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing a wide range of anorectal conditions. Its importance lies in enabling direct visualization, which supports accurate assessment and timely treatment.

The proctoscope is commonly used to evaluate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, itching, or changes in bowel habits. By allowing clinicians to inspect the internal lining of the rectum, it helps identify conditions such as hemorrhoids, fissures, polyps, inflammation, and early malignancies. Visual confirmation reduces reliance on assumptions and improves diagnostic confidence.

One of the key advantages of a proctoscope is its simplicity and efficiency. The procedure is usually quick, minimally invasive, and performed in outpatient or clinic settings. With proper technique and patient preparation, discomfort is typically limited, making it a practical first-line diagnostic tool.

Modern proctoscopes are designed…

Head and neck cancers have seen meaningful advances with the introduction of immunotherapies targeting the PD-1 pathway. These treatments help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. However, not all patients respond as expected. PD-1 resistance has emerged as a significant challenge, limiting long-term treatment success.

PD-1 resistance occurs when cancer cells evade immune detection despite immune checkpoint inhibition. Some tumors fail to activate immune cells, while others adapt by altering their molecular signaling. This resistance can be present from the start or develop after an initial response, complicating disease management.

Tumor heterogeneity plays a major role in resistance. Head and neck cancers often consist of diverse cancer cell populations, each with different immune sensitivity. As treatment eliminates responsive cells, resistant cells may survive and dominate. This dynamic nature of cancer highlights the need for adaptive and personalized treatment strategies.

Understanding PD-1 resistance is critical for improving outcomes. Researchers…