Olfaction-associated quality of life: Polish adaptation and validation of a Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD-PL) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

The focus on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in medical research is becoming more and more intensive, with attention being paid to the patient's subjective feelings and assessment of one's health status. Smell disorders can significantly impact human life. The Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD) is a self-monitoring questionnaire that provides subjective information about olfactory disorders.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to check the reliability and validation of the Polish version of QOD (QOD-PL) for use in patients with olfactory impairment in Poland.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 158 patients (76 females, mean age (Mage) 45.97 ±16.37 years), suffering from chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), whose olfactory function was measured using the Sniffin' Sticks test (SST), were studied. All patients completed 3 validated questionnaires: Importance of Olfaction (IO), Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) and QOD-PL.

RESULTS

Internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the entire QOD-PL scale were good (Cronbach's α = 0.88). The convergent validity of the QOD-PL and its subscales correlated with IO and SNOT-22. The life quality statements in the QOD-PL (QOD-PL-LQ) score, its negative statements, and the mean score for VAS scales were significantly and positively correlated with all symptoms measured with SNOT-22 and none of the IO scales.

CONCLUSIONS

The QOD-PL is a reliable, valid and important tool for assessing HRQOL in patients with olfactory disorders. However, it is important to note that not all of its subscales can be considered and interpreted separately.

Comparison of the clinical differences between COVID-19, SARS, influenza, and the common cold: A systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

This review focuses on the frequency of symptoms in COVID-19 in comparison to SARS, influenza and common cold.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate and compare the knowledge about the clinical features, symptoms and differences between patients with COVID-19, SARS, influenza, and common cold. The research can help ear, nose and throat specialists and other health practitioners manage patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The biomedical databases used in the study included PubMed and MEDLINE. Statistical analysis using the Z-score test assessed which symptoms were more characteristic of COVID-19 than other viral diseases.

RESULTS

Among individuals with COVID-19, the most frequently reported symptoms were cough (70%), fever (45%), muscular pain (29%), and headache (21%), whereas sore throat (12%), and rhinorrhea (4%) were observed at lower rates. Fever was identified as most frequent in COVID-19 (74%), appearing at a higher rate in those cases than in influenza (68%) or the common cold (40%) (p < 0.05). In comparison to other viral diseases, sore throat was rarely reported in COVID-19 and SARS (12% and 18%, respectively) (p < 0.05). In influenza and common cold, a cough was identified in 93% and 80% of cases (p < 0.05). Headache, rhinorrhea, muscular pain, and sore throat were more common in influenza (91%, 91%, 94%, and 84%, respectively) and common cold (89%, 81%, 94%, and 84%, respectively) than in COVID-19 (21%, 4%, 29%, and 12%, respectively) and SARS (45%, 12%, 55%, and 18%, respectively) (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the analysis show that a greater number of general symptoms should lead to a diagnosis of influenza or common cold rather than COVID-19.

[A case of rare laryngeal neurogenic tumor]

Laryngeal schwannoma is a rare benign tumour of the larynx. Schwannomas derive from the Schwann cells. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best imaging tool for suggesting the diagnosis. We report case of laryngeal schwannoma. The case was a 61-year-old man with a 1-year history of dysphonia and stridor. Laryngoscopy revealed a submucosal mass of the glottic area. A computed tomography scan of the larynx showed an 26(CC) x 18 (TR) x 24 (AP)mm expansile mass in the glottic area. Histopathological examination diagnosed a schwannoma of the larynx. External surgeries were successfully performed. Diagnosis and specific treatment are discussed.

Reconstruction of Multiple Renal Arteries During Simultaneous Pancreas and Kidney Transplantation: A Case Report

We present a case of a multiple renal artery reconstruction during simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantation. The kidney graft had 6 renal arteries, the aorta patch was 10 cm long, and there were two renal veins. To perform anastomoses to the left external iliac vessels we had to reconstruct the renal arterial and venal patches. The results of the transplantation were very good. Both grafts had satisfactory function, even though a control computed tomography performed a year after transplantation revealed infarction of a lower renal pole. Anatomical anomalies should not be a contraindication for transplantation, although transplants involving a multiplicity of vessels is a challenge for surgeons and requires both knowledge and microsurgical skills.

Duplicated Ureters in Transplantation-A Single-center, Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation remains the best therapeutic option for chronic renal failure. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of ureteral duplication in donor kidneys on transplantation outcome.

METHODS

In this study we performed a retrospective analysis of 75 patients who had undergone renal transplantation. The evaluated parameters included frequency of occurrence and risk of reoperation and graftectomy, mortality, as well as dependency of early and long-term graft function on pyelocaliceal system duplication.

RESULTS

Ureteral duplication was associated with more frequent double J stent catheter implantation (P < .05). There was no relationship detected between ureteral duplication, number of operations performed, and risk of graftectomy (P > .05). Early graft function with 2 ureters was similar to that of grafts with a single pyelocaliceal system. The long-term results were also comparable.

CONCLUSION

Ureteral duplication should not be considered a contraindication for renal transplantation.

Reliability of computed tomography scans in the diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Paranasal computed tomography (CT) has become the investigation method of choice to confirm or exclude the diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) on the basis of its ability to deliver objective data regarding the presence of inflamed mucosa or polyps.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to assess the reliability of CT scan findings among untreated CRS patients without the presence of polyps in a nasal endoscopy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Among patients with clinically demonstrated CRS considered for surgery, 93 subjects who had had 2 CT scans performed at different time points in the diagnostic process were enrolled into the study. Paranasal sinus involvement on both CT scans was scored using the Lund-Mackay (L-M) and modified Lund-Mackay scales. Both CT exams served to assess the extent of the potential endoscopic sinus surgery.

RESULTS

The time interval between CT scans ranged from 31 to 1,162 days (mean: 338 days). The L-M scores from the 1st CT examination correlated statistically with the results of the 2nd CT (r = 0.86; p < 0.05). When compared to the 1st scan, the L-M score in the 2nd CT scan remained the same in 36 patients (39%), increased in 23 patients (25%) and decreased in 34 patients (36%). There was no statistically significant correlation between the change in the L-M scores and the time interval between CT examinations.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that mucosal thickening within paranasal sinuses among untreated patients with CRS is stable over shortand middle-time intervals, regardless of the initial intensity of the disease. The time delay between the CT examination and qualification for surgery does not influence the decision regarding the performance of the operation. The results suggest the conclusion that repeating CT scans in symptomatic, untreated patients with CRS should be seriously considered.

Measurements of electrical impedance of biomedical objects

Some basic problems related to measurements of electrical impedance of biological objects (bioimpedance) have been presented in this paper. Particularly problems arising from impedance occurring at the sensor-tissue interface (interfacial impedances) in contact measuring methods have been discussed. The influence of finite values of impedances of the current source and voltage measuring device has also been taken into consideration. A model of the impedance sensor for the four-electrode measurement method containing the interfacial, source and measuring device impedances has been given and its frequency characteristics obtained by the computer simulation have been presented. The influence of these impedances on the shape of frequency characteristic of the sensor model has been discussed. Measurements of bioimpedance of healthy and anomalous soft tissues have been described. Some experimental results, particularly the frequency characteristics of bioimpedance, have been shown. The presented results of measurement show that bioimpedance can be a valuable source of information about the tissues, so measurement of bioimpedance can be a useful supplement to other medical diagnostic methods.

The usefulness of free dicom viewers in rhinologic practice

Indroduction: The planning of the course of surgery in patients with paranasal sinus disorders requires the meticulous evaluation of computed tomography (CT) scans. However, ENT doctors still often receive unsatisfactory DICOM images, which require multiplanar reconstruction (MPR).

THE AIM

The objective of the present study was to evaluate and test DICOM viewers with MPR function currently available on the Internet for free.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Detailed Internet searches and analysis of databases were carried out to find the maximum number of browsers. Available software was downloaded to assess, qualitatively and quantitatively, the parameters and functions useful in rhinologic practice. Additionally, a questionnaire was developed in order to ascertain the expectations and habits of ENT doctors in relation to DICOM browsers and CT scan evaluation.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Among the hundreds of browsers, 17 programs were chosen to be included in the final comparison. The outcomes of the survey proved that many free DICOM tools are effective alternatives to commercially available programs. However, the results do not enable us to predict precisely which tool will meet the needs of each physician. The survey among ENT doctors highlighted their limited awareness of software with MPR functions, in particular those that scored best in the test.

The usefulness of free dicom viewers in rhinologic practice

Indroduction: The planning of the course of surgery in patients with paranasal sinus disorders requires the meticulous evaluation of computed tomography (CT) scans. However, ENT doctors still often receive unsatisfactory DICOM images, which require multiplanar reconstruction (MPR).

THE AIM

The objective of the present study was to evaluate and test DICOM viewers with MPR function currently available on the Internet for free.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Detailed Internet searches and analysis of databases were carried out to find the maximum number of browsers. Available software was downloaded to assess, qualitatively and quantitatively, the parameters and functions useful in rhinologic practice. Additionally, a questionnaire was developed in order to ascertain the expectations and habits of ENT doctors in relation to DICOM browsers and CT scan evaluation.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Among the hundreds of browsers, 17 programs were chosen to be included in the final comparison. The outcomes of the survey proved that many free DICOM tools are effective alternatives to commercially available programs. However, the results do not enable us to predict precisely which tool will meet the needs of each physician. The survey among ENT doctors highlighted their limited awareness of software with MPR functions, in particular those that scored best in the test.

ANTIPROLIFERATIVE AND CYTOTOXIC EFFECT OF SELECTED VITAMIN D ANALOGS ON NASAL POLYPS FIBROBLASTS AND OTHER CELLS WITH HIGHER PROLIFERATIVE POTENTIAL

Besides well-known effect on bone and mineral metabolism vitamin D is involved in essential non-calcemic regulatory mechanisms, such as cellular proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in various cell types. Major limitation for therapeutic use of calcitriol, a hormonally active form of vitamin D, is its calcemic and phosphatemic action. Recently, more selective vitamin D analogs which retain clinically useful activities with reduced toxicity have been designed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro effect of vitamin D analogs on proliferation rate and survivability of cells with increased proliferative activity. The effect of calcitriol, PRI-2191, PRI-1890, PRI-1906 and PRI-2205 was examined. The experiments were performed on cultures derived from nasal polyps and cancer cells lines (SNB-19, C32 and SH-4). Cultures were incubated 72 h with tested compounds, each at the concentration of 0.025, 0.25, 2.5 and 25 µg/mL. The cytotoxic effect of vitamin D analogs and their influence on growth rate were determined using WST-1 assay. RT-QPCR technique was used to evaluate the expression of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 and pro-apoptotic BAX gene. Each of the tested compounds presented significant effect at the concentrations above 0.25 µg/mL. The strongest inhibition of the growth rate and decrease in cell survivability was observed after treatment with PRI-1890 and PRI-2191. Stimulation with calcitriol and other vitamin D analogs led to decrease BCL-2/BAX mRNA ratio in each cell lines. The apparent pro-apoptotic action revealed PRI-2191 followed by PRI-1890. It might be hypothesized that vitamin D analogs supplementation may provide therapeutic benefits not only in oncological patients but also in chronic rhinosinusitis.

[Bilateral squamous carcinoma of the external auditory canal--a case report]

Squamous cell carcinoma of the external auditory canal is a very rare and unusual malignancy, representing less than 0.2% of all head and neck cancers. The authors present a case of 78-year-old patient with bilateral squamous cell carcinoma of the external auditory canal-cT4N0M0 G2, pT4N2bM0, initially treated as a chronic otitis external. The patient was qualifies for the one-step removal of cancer of the earlobe and the external auditory canal. Because of complications during the operation, the plan of treatment was changed. The patient is under oncological control for 13 months.

IMPACT OF GENISTEIN AND PHYTIC ACID ON THE VIABILITY AND PROLIFERATION ACTIVITY OF NASAL POLYPS' CELLS IN AN IN VITRO MODEL

In developed countries, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is one of the diseases that diminish patients' quality of life most significantly. Treatment of that often incurable disease is based on the steroids and surgery in patients who had failed thorough conservative management. It appears that the introduction of new treatment agents suppressing inflammation process and inhibiting cells' proliferation would be a valuable therapeutic option. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro effect of genistein and phytic acid on the viability and growth rate of fibroblasts derived from nasal polyps. Cells were incubated with various concentrations of genistein (5-500 μM) and phytic acid (100-20,000 μM). After 72 h incubation, cells survivability and cells' growth rate were estimated by combination of WST-1 and LDH methods. QRT-PCR technique was used to determine the expression of histone H3, BCL-2, BAX and P53 genes. Caspase-8 and -9 expressions were evaluated by ELISA assay. Genistein and phytic acid significantly and in dose-specific manner decreased nasal polyps fibroblasts survivability and growth rate. Both agents in similar way decreased cell proliferation as measured by the expression of histone H3. They induce apoptotic machinery by modulating the expression of BCL-2, BAX and caspase-8 activity. Genistein and phytic acid have significant potential for a therapeutic role in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis.

Microarray analysis of NF-κB-dependent genes in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

The inflammatory process underlying nasal polyposis is induced and perpetuated by the enhanced activity of several agents including transcription factors. It has recently been demonstrated that one of them, named nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), is implicated in the regulation of multiple pro-inflammatory genes.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to identify using microarray technology which NF-κB-dependent genes are activated in nasal polyp (NP) samples compared to the control mucosa.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The transcriptional activity of genes was analyzed using an oligonucleotide microarray on 15 NPs and 8 cases of normal nasal mucosa.

RESULTS

Gene expression patterns obtained in NPs were significantly different from those in normal mucosa. NPs and control cases clustered separately, each of them with large homogeneity in gene expression. Among 582 human NF-κB-dependent genes 25 showed a significantly higher expression in NPs compared to the control. The largest increase focused on gene encoding TFF3 (a 5-fold higher expression) followed by NOS2A (5x), SERPINA1 (4x), UCP2 (4x), OXTR (4x) and IL8 (3x) (p<0.05). In healthy mucosa 19 genes presented increased transcription activity compared to NPs. The most significantly enhanced levels were shown LTF gene (20 fold) followed by KRT6B (7x), LYZ (7x), SD11B2 (5x) and MMP3 (4x) (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DNA microarray technology highlights the involvement of many unsuspected pathologic pathways which could be involved in NP growth. The identification of novel disease-related genes may help to understand the biology of NPs and elaborate new targeted therapy.

Lactoferrin inhibits the growth of nasal polyp fibroblasts

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of lactoferrin (LF) on the growth of fibroblasts derived from nasal polyps. We showed that the proliferation of fibroblasts was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by both native and recombinant LF. The greatest inhibition of proliferation was caused by human milk-derived, iron-saturated LF. The inhibition of fibroblast proliferation was not species specific because bovine LF also was active. The interaction between LFs and a putative cell receptor did not depend on the sugar composition of the glycan moiety of the LF molecule because lactoferrins of different origins were active and the addition of monosaccharides to the cultures did not block proliferation. However, the treatment of fibroblasts with sodium chlorate (an inhibitor of glycosaminoglycan sulfation) or the addition of heparin abolished the inhibitory effect of LF, suggesting that LF binds heparan sulfate-containing proteoglycans. The significance of LF in nasal excretions in controlling polyp formation is discussed.