- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2026.24119
- Feb 20, 2026
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Sevilay Batibay + 1 more
OBJECTIVETo evaluate real-world diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) among Turkish rheumatologists and compare them with international guideline recommendations.METHODSA cross-sectional online survey was conducted among rheumatologists practicing in Turkiye between September and October 2025. A self-administered 29-item questionnaire was distributed through professional communication networks. The survey was developed with reference to the 2012 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology (EULAR/ACR) classification criteria and international management guidelines. It assessed self-reported diagnostic approaches, screening practices for giant cell arteritis (GCA), treatment strategies, and follow-up and monitoring practices. Data were recorded and analyzed in a de-identified manner using descriptive statistics.RESULTSA total of 101 rheumatologists participated in the survey. Diagnostic approaches varied substantially: use of the 2012 EULAR/ACR criteria was reported by 65 (64.4%), referral to the 2010 British Society for Rheumatology/British Health Professionals in Rheumatology (BSR/BHPR) guideline by 10 (9.9%), and primary reliance on clinical judgment by 76 (75.2%). Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and/or C-reactive protein (ESR/CRP) were considered necessary for diagnosis by 92 (91.1%). Use of imaging modalities, including ultrasonography (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET), was highly heterogeneous, and routine screening for giant cell arteritis (GCA) was reported by 25 (24.8%). Glucocorticoid (GC) monotherapy was the preferred first-line treatment among 76 participants (75.2%), with most clinicians selecting guideline-recommended starting doses (12.5–25 mg/day) and initiating tapering between weeks 4 and 8. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) were most commonly introduced at first relapse (55, 54.5%). Although osteoporosis risk assessment was reported by 86 (85.1%), the use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX), and referral for exercise programs remained inconsistent.CONCLUSIONAlthough initial GC therapy was generally consistent with guideline recommendations, considerable heterogeneity was observed in diagnostic approaches, imaging use, screening for GCA, and long-term monitoring practices, indicating persistent gaps between guidelines and real-world clinical practice.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2026.39111
- Feb 12, 2026
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Mustafa Aldag + 1 more
OBJECTIVETo assess the feasibility and early outcomes of single-stage hybrid revascularization consisting of common femoral endarterectomy with pericardial patch angioplasty and endovascular recanalization of the ipsilateral iliac arteries in patients with combined femoroiliac occlusive disease.METHODSBetween January 2022 and October 2025, consecutive patients with multilevel iliofemoral peripheral artery disease (PAD) who underwent simultaneous single-stage hybrid revascularization at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. The hybrid strategy comprised common femoral endarterectomy with bovine pericardial patch angioplasty and intraoperative angiography-guided endovascular recanalization of the ipsilateral iliac arteries using balloon angioplasty with or without stent implantation; wire-guided iliac embolectomy was performed when indicated. Preoperative assessment included computed tomography angiography (1-mm slice thickness) and color-coded duplex ultrasonography. Patients were followed for at least three months with clinical assessment and duplex ultrasound. The primary endpoint was primary technical success of the planned hybrid procedure. Secondary endpoints included postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, three-month iliac stent patency, mortality, and amputation-free survival.RESULTSTwenty-eight patients were available for analysis. The median age was 73 (IQR: 14.5) years, and 64.3% were male. Most patients presented with advanced disease (Fontaine III–IV, 85.8%), and 60.7% had rest pain. Primary technical success was achieved in 85.7%. Bailout femorofemoral crossover bypass was required in 10.7%, and staged endovascular completion was planned in one patient. Iliac stenting was performed in 67.9%; wire-guided iliac embolectomy achieved thrombus extraction in 78.6% of attempted cases. The median length of stay was 10.5 (IQR:7) 13.4 days. Wound-healing disorders occurred in 7.1%. At three months, iliac stent patency was 100% and mortality was 0%. Amputation-free survival was 82.1%, with minor and major amputations in 10.7% and 7.1%, respectively.CONCLUSIONSingle-stage hybrid revascularization for femoroiliac occlusive disease in patients with advanced PAD was feasible and was associated with favorable early outcomes. Larger prospective studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm durability and comparative effectiveness.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2026.55899
- Feb 12, 2026
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Mert Kaskal + 3 more
OBJECTIVEBreast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. Famotidine, a histamine H2-receptor antagonist commonly prescribed for gastric conditions, has demonstrated potential anticancer effects through mechanisms unrelated to acid suppression. The study aims to evaluate the cytotoxic of famotidine on breast adenocarcinoma (MCF)-7 cell line through in vitro assays.METHODSMCF-7 cells were treated with varying concentrations of famotidine (0.364–20 mg/mL) for 24 hours. Cell viability and cytotoxicity were assessed using the MTT assay and Live/Dead fluorescence staining. Morphological changes were evaluated under phase-contrast and fluorescence microscopy. The statistical comparisons were performed using ANOVA statistical analysis.RESULTSFamotidine treatment resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in cell viability. Higher concentrations (≥5 mg/mL) led to substantial cytotoxicity, with viability falling below 20%. Live/Dead assays confirmed these results, showing increased red (dead cell) fluorescence at higher doses. Morphological analysis revealed change in cell morphology which is consistent with non-specific cytotoxic injury.CONCLUSIONFamotidine exhibits physiologically cytotoxic effects in MCF-7 breast cancer cells in vitro.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2025.25478
- Feb 9, 2026
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Pinar Atla + 3 more
OBJECTIVEClinical observations show that the development of puberty occurs earlier, and the course is accelerated in children born small for gestational age (SGA) compared to peers born average for gestational age (AGA). The aim of this study was to investigate the response to GnRH analogue (GnRAa) treatment in SGA and AGA girls with central precocious puberty (CPP).METHODSThis study included 16 SGA and 137 AGA girls who were receiving GnRHa treatment due to onset of central puberty before the age of eight. SGA group included girls who exhibited normal growth and did not receive growth hormone GH treatment. The response to treatment parameters were compared at the 12th month and at the end of the treatment.RESULTSThe mean age at the onset of puberty, anthropometric data, bone age, difference between bone age and decimal age were not different between SGA and AGA groups, as well as baseline luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, stimulated LH and LH/FSH ratio. Height SDS, BMI SDS, and predicted adult height at presentation, at 12th month and at the end of the treatment were not different in SGA girls. A significant difference was detected only in BMI parameter which increased in 12th month in AGA girls.CONCLUSIONThe findings of our study indicate that SGA girls with precocious puberty who have achieved growth catch-up and lack additional risk factors require a similar approach to AGA girls when initiating and modifying treatment during the follow-up period.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2026.34437
- Jan 1, 2026
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Ozge Atik + 3 more
H ydatid cyst (HC) disease, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, is a widespread parasitic infection that frequently occurs in endemic regions such as the Middle East, Mediterranean, and South America [1] Small cysts, which do not cause significant illness, may remain asymptomatic for many years or even permanently [2] Symptoms may develop if the cysts rupture or exert a mass effect.The most common presenting symptoms include fatigue, weight loss and right upper quadrant pain [3].Allergic reactions and anaphylaxis are remarkable characteristics of HC [4].These parasites are strongly associated with allergies due to their immunological properties, which help sustain the larvae within the human host, as well as their capacity to provoke clinical anaphylactic reactions in certain individuals [5].Anaphylactic shock can occur spontaneously or as a result of cyst rupture, as described in various studies [6][7][8].Several intraoperative factors may lead to hydatid fluid contamination, which can trigger anaphylacticand anaphylactoid reactions.These reactions range from mild urticaria to severe anaphylactic shock [9,10].
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2025.89588
- Dec 29, 2025
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Melisa Bagci Kilic + 10 more
OBJECTIVEThis study aimed to investigate the in vivo radioprotective effects of Myrtus communis (MC) on the gastrointestinal system.METHODSA total of 30 female rats were divided into four groups: i) Control; ii) irradiation (IR) only; iii) MC-pretreated; and iv) MC-treated. The rats received oral MC extract (100 mg/kg/day) for 4 days before exposure to 10 Gy IR or continued until sacrifice. On the fourth day of IR exposure, the rats were sacrificed, and histopathological and biochemical analyses were performed on the ileum, pancreas, and liver tissues.RESULTSMalondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase levels decreased in both MC-treated groups, while glutathione levels and Na+-K+-ATPase activity increased (p<0.01), with significant histopathological improvements compared to the IR-only group.CONCLUSIONThe results of this study demonstrate that MC significantly decreases ionizing radiation-induced oxidative and inflammatory damage in the gastrointestinal systems of rats. Therefore, it may be regarded as a new candidate with radioprotective potential for future clinical application.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2025.25936
- Dec 26, 2025
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Ayse Bozkurt Oflaz + 3 more
OBJECTIVEThe aim of this study was to evaluate systemic and environmental risk factors, clinical findings and surgical trends in patients admitted to our clinic with the diagnosis of dermatochalasis.METHODSBetween January and March 2024, 114 patients with upper eyelid dermatochalasis were retrospectively analyzed cross-sectionally. Demographic data, history of systemic disease, surgical history, presenting complaints, tear tests (Schirmer, tear breakup time (TBUT)) and dermatochalasis grades were recorded.RESULTSIn the patient cohort, females constituted 66.66%, with a mean age of 53.08±6.35 years. The predominant complaint was a sensation of heaviness or fatigue in the upper eyelid, as reported by 41.22% of the patients. A substantial 70.17% of the participants presented with at least one systemic illness, with diabetes mellitus, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and rheumatologic diseases being the most common. Symptoms of dry eye were observed in 31.57% of the patients, with an average Schirmer test result of 11.03±3.07 mm and a TBUT of 5.87±1.86 seconds. No significant correlation was found between Schirmer and TBUT values and the severity of dermatochalasis (p>0.05). Among the patients, 37.71% were considering surgery, with 65.11% seeking it for cosmetic reasons and 34.88% for functional purposes.CONCLUSIONDermatochalasis is a complex condition associated with functional and systemic effects and aesthetic problems. A history of systemic disease, dry eye symptoms and visual field limitation should be considered in managing the disease. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach should be adopted, and patient expectations should be considered in treatment planning. Prospective studies with a large sample size may better elucidate the etiopathogenesis and patient management.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2025.51447
- Dec 10, 2025
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Abdullah Ors + 4 more
OBJECTIVEHill-Sachs lesions are considered as an a priori risk factor for glenohumeral instability. Determination of glenoid and coracoacromial arch morphometric properties of patients with Hill-Sachs lesions may aid in the diagnosis, identification of optimal treatment strategies and prevention of recurrence.METHODSComputed tomography (CT) images of individuals between the ages of 20–40 were examined and the morphometric characteristics of the 39 patients with Hill-Sachs lesions and 71 control patients with healthy shoulder structures were compared. Glenoid inclination (GI), acromio-humeral distance (AHD), glenoid height (GH), glenoid superior width (GWs), glenoid inferior width (GWi), glenoid surface (GS), coraco-acromial distance (CAD), coraco-glenoid distance (CGD) and acromio-glenoid distance (AGD) were determined as morphometric features.RESULTSThe average values of the measurements in Hill-Sachs and control groups, respectively, were; glenoid inclination (1.06±6.61°; 4.33±6.20°), acromio-humeral distance (6.66±1.26; 7.67±1.64 mm), glenoid height (33.90±2.34; 35.03±3.29 mm), glenoid superior width (19.89±5.89; 19.83±2.37 mm), glenoid inferior width (24.28±2.53; 26.04±3.06 mm), glenoid surface (647.93±91.26; 721.58±136.86 mm2), coraco-acromial distance (40.24±3.99; 38.10±3.80 mm), coraco-glenoid distance (29.39±3.64; 29.96±4.44 mm) and acromio-glenoid distance (31.44±3.45; 31.64–33.56 mm). Glenoid inclination (p=0.011), acromio-humeral distance (p=0.001), glenoid height (p=0.039), glenoid inferior width (p=0.001), glenoid surface area (p=0.002) and coraco-acromial distance (p=0.008) were significantly different between the groups.CONCLUSIONThe glenoid and coracoacromial arch morphometry showed significant differences in patients with Hill-Sachs lesions. Recognizing these differences can reduce recurrence rates by reducing risk factors in the treatment of glenohumeral instability and providing the closest anatomical integrity to normal.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2024.13914
- Oct 31, 2025
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Fatma Hilal Yilmaz + 2 more
OBJECTIVEThis study aimed to ensure that newborns receive early diagnosis through P-wave dispersion (PWD) in terms of possible atrial arrhythmias on the provocative basis of sepsis.METHODSIn this prospective study twenty term sepsis and twenty preterm sepsis patients were compared with control groups with their own characteristics in terms of PWD by electrocardiography.RESULTSThe P-wave dispersion value in patients with term sepsis was determined to be statistically significant (p=0.03). There was no difference in PWD between the patient and control groups in preterms (p<0.05). Heart rate in preterm patients with sepsis was found to be statistically significantly higher than in the control group (p=0.001).CONCLUSIONOur study revealed a tendency for atrial arrhythmias in term newborn infants with sepsis. These babies should be followed by pediatric cardiology with cardiac monitoring throughout their treatment.
- Research Article
- 10.14744/nci.2025.29567
- Oct 28, 2025
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul
- Murat Oklar + 4 more
OBJECTIVETo characterise the clinical spectrum, prognostic indicators and seasonal relapse patterns of cytomegalovirus anterior uveitis (CMV-AU), with particular emphasis on glaucoma risk and treatment outcomes.METHODSThis retrospective study analysed 53 eyes of 52 immunocompetent patients diagnosed with CMV-AU between 2019 and 2023 at a tertiary referral centre. Diagnosis relied on characteristic clinical findings and, in selected cases, aqueous-humour polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Demographic data, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), keratic precipitate (KP) patterns, anterior segment changes, treatment regimens and relapse rates were reviewed.RESULTSThe cohort (67.3% male) had a mean diagnosis age of 34.3±11.1 years. Most eyes were Posner-Schlossmann-like (63.5%), followed by chronic non-specific AU (34.6 %) and Fuchs-like AU (1.9 %). KPs were chiefly solitary (58.5%), centrally located (50.9%) and sparse (< 5) in 66.0 %. Corneal endothelitis occurred in 39.6% of eyes and was an independent predictor of secondary glaucoma (OR=6.20, 95 % CI 1.04–36.86). Glaucoma developed in 56.6% of eyes; 13.2% required glaucoma surgery. Glaucoma was more frequent and more likely to require surgery in patients treated with oral valganciclovir compared to those treated with topical ganciclovir alone (p=0.049 and p=0.034, respectively). Having ≥ 1 winter relapse (OR=4.99, 95 % CI 1.14–21.86) and, in women, ≥1 spring relapse (OR=5.38, 95 % CI 1.11–25.96) independently predicted > 3 relapses. Overall relapse frequency peaked in winter and summer (p<0.05).CONCLUSIONCorneal endothelitis appears to be an independent risk factor for secondary glaucoma in CMV-AU, warranting vigilant IOP monitoring and timely antiviral therapy. The observed seasonal pattern, with more frequent relapses in winter overall and an increased rate in spring among female patients, may assist clinicians in identifying high-risk groups and planning closer follow-up.