Scented Candles as an Unrecognized Factor that Increases the Risk of Bladder Cancer; Is There Enough Evidence to Raise a Red Flag?

Non-muscle invasive urothelial bladder cancer in a 17-year-old male: A rare case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder predominantly affects adults with rare cases in young patients. This manuscript presents a rare case of urothelial carcinoma highlighting clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in this age group. Our aim is to raise awareness among healthcare professionals for improved outcomes in children and adolescents with bladder urothelial carcinoma.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 17-year-old male presented with hematuria and urinary symptoms. No history of smoking, alcohol, surgeries, family conditions, or medications. The patient had environmental chemical exposure near an oil refinery. An initial ultrasound and Cystoscopy showed a sizable bladder tumor. A complete TURBT was done, followed by cauterization and catheter placement. The tumor was diagnosed as low-grade urothelial carcinoma (pT1). Follow-up cystoscopies after 3 and 9 months showed no recurrence.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Urothelial bladder carcinoma (UBC) is linked to occupational exposure and smoking. Limited research exists on UBC in young patients, but genetic factors and environmental exposure may play a role. In young individuals, UBC typically presents as low-grade, non-muscle invasive tumors (NMIBC). Transurethral resection may be sufficient for low-grade tumors, and postoperative follow-up with ultrasound is important. Larger tumors have a higher risk of recurrence and progression.

CONCLUSION

The present case emphasizes the need to consider urothelial bladder carcinoma as a potential cause of hematuria in young patients and conduct a thorough evaluation of all risk factors. Future research is needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for managing this condition in pediatric and adolescent patients.

Assessment of Saudi Society's Awareness of the Hazards of Scented Candles and Air Fresheners

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Air fresheners and scented candles are dangerous for human health and the environment. They are associated with allergies and irritation for a weak respiratory system. This study was conducted to determine the extent of community awareness of the toxicity associated with scented candles and air fresheners. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> This study uses a questionnaire from March, 2023 to June, 2023. The study questionnaire, which was completed by 1667 participants, assesses the degree of knowledge, habits and diseases connected to scents and candles. Descriptive statistics, including percentages, were used. <b>Results:</b> It was discovered that, on average, 568 (34.1%) people are unaware that candles contain chemicals. As 1497 (89.8%) are prepared to replace them with natural and safer candles, while 163 (9.8%) consulted a doctor after exposure to candles because of respiratory allergies; 1093 (65.5%) do not care to check the ingredients before buying a candle and 854 (51.2%) are unaware that candles might cause long-term damage. <b>Conclusion:</b> A significant portion of participants were unaware of the dangers of scented candles and air fresheners. There is no link between respiratory allergies and the substances present in these candles, but it has been proven that most participants are ready to change and use natural alternatives.

Effects of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction Combined with THP Bladder Perfusion on Postoperative Efficacy in Patients with Bladder Cancer

Background

As a traditional Chinese medicine tonic, Buzhong Yiqi decoction has the effects of invigorating Qi and lifting Yang. In this study, the effects of Buzhong Yiqi Shenge decoction combined with THP bladder perfusion on postoperative efficacy in bladder cancer were investigated.

Methods

A total of 70 cases of bladder cancer patients were divided into the experimental group and control group according to the random number table method, with 35 cases in each group. The control group was treated with THP bladder perfusion. The experimental group was treated with Buzhong Yiqi Shenge decoction on the basis of the control group. The number of urine white blood cells, VEGF level, the incidence of adverse reactions, and KPS score were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.

Results

After 3 and 6 months of therapy, the KPS score of the experimental group increased significantly compared with the control group. However, after 12 months of treatment, there was no difference in KPS scores between the two groups. Moreover, there was no significant variation in serum VEGF between two groups after 3 months of treatment. However, Buzhong Yiqi decoction notably reduced the level of VEGF after 6 months and 12 months. After 3 months, the urine white blood cell count was lower in the experimental group than in the control group. After 6 and 12 months, there was no difference in urine white blood cell count between the two groups. Furthermore, a total of 14 patients in two groups had reoccurrence after one year. Our results showed that there was no significant difference in postoperative recurrence rate between the experimental group and the control group. The occurrence rates of frequent and urgent urination, nausea/loss, and abnormal urine routine of appetite in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group. But there was no difference in the occurrence rate of low heat, hematuria between the experimental group and the control group.

Conclusion

Buzhong Yiqi decoction combined with THP bladder perfusion has no advantage in the short-term recurrence rate of bladder cancer patients. However, Buzhong Yiqi decoction can alleviate the symptoms of adverse reactions and improve the quality of life of patients.

The Significance of Biomechanics and Scaffold Structure for Bladder Tissue Engineering

Current approaches for bladder reconstruction surgery are associated with many morbidities. Tissue engineering is considered an ideal approach to create constructs capable of restoring the function of the bladder wall. However, many constructs to date have failed to create a sufficient improvement in bladder capacity due to insufficient neobladder compliance. This review evaluates the biomechanical properties of the bladder wall and how the current reconstructive materials aim to meet this need. To date, limited data from mechanical testing and tissue anisotropy make it challenging to reach a consensus on the native properties of the bladder wall. Many of the materials whose mechanical properties have been quantified do not fall within the range of mechanical properties measured for native bladder wall tissue. Many promising new materials have yet to be mechanically quantified, which makes it difficult to ascertain their likely effectiveness. The impact of scaffold structures and the long-term effect of implanting these materials on their inherent mechanical properties are areas yet to be widely investigated that could provide important insight into the likely longevity of the neobladder construct. In conclusion, there are many opportunities for further investigation into novel materials for bladder reconstruction. Currently, the field would benefit from a consensus on the target values of key mechanical parameters for bladder wall scaffolds.