Burning Sensation Research Articles

Role of Ultrasound in Evaluation of Median and Ulnar Nerves in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients in Correlation with Nerve Conduction Studies

Abstract Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology characterized by the involvement of the joints. RA is also associated with vasculopathy, peripheral, autonomic, and entrapment neuropathy. The presence of peripheral neuropathy contributes significantly to the functional limitation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy and consists of the compression of the median nerve as it courses through the carpal tunnel followed by the cubital tunnel syndrome which is the most common site for entrapment for the ulnar nerve. Aim of the Work to evaluate the role of ultrasound in evaluation of median and ulnar nerves in rheumatoid arthritis patients in correlation with nerve conduction studies. Patients and Methods to elucidate this aim, 25patients diagnosed with RA, diagnosed according to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) classification criteria for diagnosis of RA. And 25 healthy control subjects (matched for age and body mass index) were enrolled. Results this study was carried on 25 patients, 9 (34.7%) of whom were females, and 17 (68%) were males. The mean age of the studied group was (38.96±6.24 years old). The mean disease duration was 7 ±1.13 years; the mean disease activity index was 4.28 ±0.15. All the studied cases suffer from needle sensation, 24 (96) had numbness and 17(68) had burning sensation. All the studied cases in patient group had distal weakness and negative sensory testing (light touch, pinprick, temperature and vibration). As regarding to extra-articular manifestations, the most common was dry mouth and dry eye in all the studied cases followed by itchy skin in 13(52) patient, then joints aches and subcutaneous nodules in 2(8) patient and purpura was seen in only a case. Conclusion US has the advantage of early detection of median and ulnar nerves neuropathy and can assess the morphology of median and ulnar nerves and its surroundings. US measurements of median and ulnar nerves have a comparable diagnostic value as a non- invasive and an alternative modality for the evaluation of carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome.

Preventive Effect of Neuromuscular Training on Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a highly prevalent and clinically relevant adverse effect of chemotherapy, negatively impacting patient quality of life. The lack of effective preventive or therapeutic options regarding CIPN often requires changes in cancer therapy, potentially resulting in reduced survival. To determine whether sensorimotor training (SMT) and whole-body vibration (WBV) training reduce symptoms and decrease the onset of CIPN. This prospective multicenter randomized clinical trial (STOP) followed up patients over 5 years at 4 centers in or near Cologne, Germany. Patients undergoing treatment with oxaliplatin or vinca alkaloids were recruited. Participants were recruited from May 2014 to November 2020. Data were last analyzed in June 2021. Participants in the intervention groups performed supervised SMT or WBV training sessions twice a week, each lasting approximately 15 to 30 minutes, concomitant to medical therapy. The primary end point was the incidence of CIPN. Secondary end points included subjective neuropathy symptoms, balance control, physical activity levels, quality of life, and clinical outcome. For cross-stratum evaluations, the Mantel-Haenszel test (MH) was used, and within individual strata, Fisher exact test was used for analysis. A total of 1605 patients were screened, and 1196 patients did not meet all inclusion criteria, with 251 further excluded or declining participation. A total of 158 patients (mean [SD] age, 49.1 [18.0-82.0] years; 93 [58.9%] male) were randomized into 1 of 3 groups: 55 (34.8%) in SMT, 53 (33.5%) in WBV, and 50 (31.6%) in treatment as usual (TAU). The incidence of CIPN in participants was significantly lower in both intervention groups compared to the control group (TAU): (SMT, 12 of 40 [30.0%; 95% CI, 17.9%-42.1%] and WBV, 14 of 34 [41.2%; 95% CI, 27.9%-54.5%] vs TAU, 24 of 34 [70.6%; 95% CI, 58.0%-83.2%]; P = .002 for intention to treat-MH). Patients receiving vinca alkaloids and performing SMT benefited the most. Results were more pronounced in a per-protocol analysis (>75% participation in the intervention) (SMT, 8 of 28 [28.6%; 95% CI, 16.6%-40.5%] and WBV, 9 of 24 [37.5%; 95% CI, 24.4%-50.5%] vs TAU, 22 of 30 [73.3%; 95% CI, 61.6%-85.6%]). Improvements in favor of SMT compared to TAU were found for balance control bipedal with eyes open; bipedal with eyes closed; monopedal, vibration sensitivity, sense of touch, lower leg strength, pain reduction, burning sensation, chemotherapy dose reductions, and mortality. This randomized clinical trial provides initial evidence that neuromuscular training decreases the onset of CIPN. German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00006088.

Pain Detect as A Tool for The Screening of Neuropathic Pain in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a prevalent long-term complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), affecting more than 50% of patients. In addition, several studies also showed that distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) accounts for 75% of all DN cases. To facilitate the treatment of DN, painDETECT questionnaire, a self-reported tool with 85% sensitivity and 80% specificity, has been recommended for detecting neuropathic component in pain. Objective: This study aimed to promptly diagnose DN using painDETECT questionnaire in DM patients. Methods: The study procedures were carried out using a descriptive, cross-sectional design with 67 DM patients from Cibabat Regional Hospital Department of Internal Medicine outpatient clinic through consecutive sampling in October–November 2022. Primary data were obtained using the adapted and validated Indonesian painDETECT questionnaire. Results: Among the 67 patients, 32.9% experienced neuropathic pain with a score of 19–38, indicating the involvement of >90% of neuropathic pain components. Sensory deficits, such as numbness, burning sensation, pins-and-needles, and allodynia, were observed in 86.3%, 90.1%, and 72.7% of patients with neuropathic pain, respectively. In addition, a total of 59.7% of participants (n=40) reported the presence of mild pain (NRS 3). Conclusion: Based on the results, the majority of patients had complaints of neuropathic or mild pain (40 subjects; 59.7%). Among the 22 patients experiencing neuropathic pain, 54.5% reported mild intensity.

Clinical pattern of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in children – A cross-sectional study

Background: Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), a chronic and bilateral allergic eye condition, predominantly affects young males and is more prevalent in hot, humid regions with high allergen exposure. It manifests with itching, light sensitivity, burning sensations, and tearing. The three main clinical forms include limbal or bulbar, palpebral or tarsal, and mixed presentations. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to describe the clinical patterns of VKC in children at a tertiary care hospital in Andhra Pradesh. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a hospital setting at the Department of Ophthalmology, SV Medical College in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, between January 2021 and January 2022. Ninety children aged 5–12 years with symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis were enrolled in the study. The Bonini grading system was used to grade the severity of the disease based on clinical manifestations at the time of initial presentation. Results: Mean age of disease onset was 8.6±2.3 years, with a male-to-female ratio (M: F) of 2.1:1. The majority of the subjects experienced seasonal occurrence 69 (77.0%), whereas 21 (23%) had perennial occurrence. The commonly reported symptoms included itching (83%), redness (73%), watering (73%), and discharge (47%). A significant number of patients (60, 69%) had a mixed type of disease that affected both the tarsal and bulbar conjunctiva. Conclusion: VKC predominantly affects young males, displaying a seasonal distribution and showing less allergic association, consistent with patterns observed in other tropical regions. Most patients had mild VKC at presentation, and a mixed-form pattern was most frequently observed.

Menopause and Oral Health: Clinical Implications and Preventive Strategies

ABSTRACT Menopause, occurring typically between the ages of 45 and 55 years, marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a significant decline in estrogen and progesterone production. These hormonal changes impact various aspects of health, including oral health. This review explores the clinical implications of menopause on oral health and outlines preventive strategies. Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to xerostomia (dry mouth), periodontal disease, burning mouth syndrome (BMS), oral mucosal changes, altered taste sensation, and osteoporosis-related oral health issues. Xerostomia results from decreased salivary flow, increasing the risk of dental caries and oral infections. Periodontal disease is exacerbated by estrogen deficiency, leading to bone loss and increased tooth mobility. BMS, characterized by a chronic burning sensation, and oral mucosal atrophy are linked to hormonal fluctuations. In addition, altered taste perception and osteoporosis further complicate oral health management. Effective prevention and management strategies include regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene practices, and tailored treatments such as fluoride treatments, saliva substitutes, and hormone replacement therapy. Nonpharmacological approaches such as stress management and lifestyle modifications also play a role. This review emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, involving dental and medical professionals, to address the complex oral health challenges faced by menopausal women. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and implementing evidence-based preventive measures can significantly enhance the oral health and overall well-being of menopausal women.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Two Pharmaceutical Therapies for Burning Mouth Syndrome

ABSTRACT Background: Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by a persistent burning sensation in the oral cavity, affecting quality of life significantly. Pharmacological therapy is commonly employed in the management of BMS, but the comparative efficacy of different pharmaceutical agents remains uncertain. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted involving 80 participants diagnosed with BMS, randomly assigned to two treatment groups: Group A received tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), while Group B received anticonvulsants. Baseline assessments of pain intensity, oral health-related quality of life, and psychological distress were conducted using standardized measures. Treatment outcomes were evaluated at 3-month and 6-month follow-up visits. Pain intensity was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), while oral health-related quality of life and psychological distress were measured using validated questionnaires. Results: Both treatment groups demonstrated significant improvements in pain intensity, oral health-related quality of life, and psychological distress compared to baseline. At the 6-month follow-up, Group A (TCAs) showed a mean reduction of 70% in pain intensity from baseline, whereas Group B (anticonvulsants) exhibited a mean reduction of 65%. The difference in pain reduction between the two groups was not statistically significant (P = 0.35). Both groups also showed similar improvements in oral health-related quality of life and psychological distress measures. Conclusion: TCAs and anticonvulsants are both effective pharmaceutical therapies for managing BMS, resulting in significant improvements in pain intensity, oral health-related quality of life, and psychological distress.

Genetic variations and clinical features associated with burning sensation due to topical tacrolimus in patients with atopic dermatitis

AbstractBackgroundTopical tacrolimus has been used as one of the treatment options for atopic dermatitis (AD). A burning sensation is the most common side effect of topical tacrolimus.ObjectivesThis study was designed to identify genetic variations and clinical features to predict burning sensation by topical tacrolimus in patients with AD.MethodsPatients with AD who had applied topical tacrolimus were classified according to the presence of a burning sensation. We compared the patients' demographics and blood test results, including serum eosinophil, serum immunoglobulin E and multiple allergen simultaneous test. Furthermore, the frequency of variations in barrier‐ (KLK7, FLG 3321delA, FLG K4022X, SPINK5 1156, SPINK5 1188, SPINK5 2475) and immune response‐ (DEFB1, KDR, CDKAL1, IL‐5RA, IL‐9, IL‐12RB1, IL‐12RB2, IL‐17RA) related genes was compared between two groups by reverse blot hybridization assay of the buccal mucosa.ResultsAmong 206 patients with AD using topical tacrolimus, 34 (16.5%) complained of a burning sensation. The burning sensation was associated with severe AD and a family history of atopic disease. Furthermore, with statistical significance, a heterozygous mutation in the filaggrin gene (FLG K4022X) was more frequent in AD patients with a burning sensation due to topical tacrolimus. However, no other significant genetic differences were observed between them.ConclusionsA burning sensation caused by topical tacrolimus can be expected in AD patients with severe symptoms, a family history of atopy and a genetic variation such as FLG K4022X.

The effect of cyclosporine a in pterygium surgery using fibrin glue.

To evaluate the effect of topical cyclosporine A (CsA) 0.05% in patients with pterygium surgery using fibrin glue (FG). Patients with primary nasal pterygium were retrospectically analyzed and categorized into two groups: Group 1 with 41 eyes from 38 patients as a control group and group 2 with 39 eyes from 36 patients who received topical CsA twice a day for 6months. Patients were assessed for recurrence rate, tear film parameters, side effects, and complications at postoperative intervals of 1-7days; 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th months. The follow-up period was 1year. The two groups were age (p = 0.934) and sex (p = 0.996) matched. CsA drop was discontinued in one patient due to burning sensation and conjunctival hyperemia after 1 week. There was no statistically significant difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative 1st year Schirmer I and tear break-up time (TBUT) values in group 1 (p = 0.136; p = 0.069). Although the difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative 1st year TBUT values in group 2 was not statistically different (p = 0.249), Schirmer I results were higher postoperatively (p = 0.003). There was no statistically significant difference between preoperative Schirmer (p = 0.496), postoperative Schirmer (p = 0.661), preoperative TBUT (p = 0.240) and postoperative TBUT (p = 0.238) results of the two groups. Recurrence was observed in only one patient from group 1. No recurrent pterygium cases were observed in group 2. Schirmer I values were higher postoperatively in group 2; thus,topical CsA treatment may improve lacrimal secretion and be effective after pterygium surgery with FG.

Oral discomfort and health behavior of patients with typical vs. atypical antipsychotic drugs.

Psychiatric patients suffer from oral diseases and side effects of antipsychotic medication. In particular, the typical antipsychotic drugs may cause severe hyposalivation with subsequent oral symptoms. We therefore aimed to compare oral health behavior and oral side effects of in-hospital patients taking typical vs. atypical antipsychotic drugs with the hypothesis that the former drugs cause more oral pain than the newer drugs. This cross-sectional questionnaire and interview study investigated subjective oral symptoms and their health behavior in 170 hospitalized psychiatric patients, comparing those taking typical vs. atypical antipsychotic drugs. Cross-tabulations and chi-square tests were used for analyses. Persistent oral pain lasting throughout the day was reported by 46% in the typical, and 5% in the atypical antipsychotic group patients, respectively. In both groups, the pain was mainly in the tongue and buccal mucosa and was described as a burning sensation. A significantly higher prevalence of xerostomia was reported in the typical antipsychotic medication group (66%) compared with the atypical antipsychotic medication group (53%, p<0.01). Self-assessed dental health was assessed as poor by two-thirds of the patients of whom 69% reported toothbrushing once daily. Approximately half of them reported having had a visit to a dentist within the previous year. Of the women 28%, and of the men 17%, respectively, had received professional consultations for oral symptoms. The current results on psychiatrically hospitalized patients emphasize the need for awareness of oral discomfort and its subsequent effects on the quality of life in this challenging patient group. Focus should also be placed on a wide range of support encouraging the patients to maintain good daily oral hygiene and seek professional dental help when needed.

Use of lidocaine associated with bicarbonate as a strategy to reduce pain and discomfort in anesthetic procedures: a comprehensive review

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that is widely used in medical and dental procedures due to its effectiveness and rapid analgesic action. However, its use may be associated with side effects such as pain at the time of injection and a burning sensation during administration. A common strategy to mitigate these adverse effects is the association of lidocaine with sodium bicarbonate, aiming to raise the pH of the anesthetic solution. This article reviews the most relevant studies on the use of lidocaine associated with bicarbonate as a strategy to reduce pain and discomfort in anesthetic procedures.

Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Its Impact on the Quality of Life Among Obese Individuals in Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a global gastrointestinal disorder, and obesity is a particular risk factor. Symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux, are caused by abnormal relaxation in the lower esophagus, causing gastric acid reflux. Persistent symptoms can affect the patient's quality of life (QOL) and can cause complications, such as esophageal adenocarcinoma. Management of GERD includes lifestyle changes, antacids, and anti-reflux surgery. Even though GERD is a common disease, few research has been carried out on it in Saudi Arabia. Aim This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GERD and its associated risk factors among obese individuals in the Al-Baha region population and the effect of GERD on their QOL. Methods A cross-sectional study included 314 obese participants from the Al-Baha region. A questionnaire was filled out to measure the prevalence of GERD, risk factors, and effects on the QOL of the participants. Data were analyzed by the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 26.0 (released 2019, IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Descriptive statistics and the chi-squared test were applied. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with the incidence of GERD. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 314 patients who met our inclusion criteria completed the survey; 42% of them were women, the mean age of all patients was 35.3 ± 12.9 years, and 38.2% of the patients were diagnosed with GERD. Epigastric pain and burning sensation were the most common symptoms (44.9%). Five out of six domains in the QOL questionnaire showed more effects among GERD participants than non-GERD participants, and the results were statistically significant (p = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that men are 1.8 times more likely than women to be diagnosed with GERD, and smokers have 2.6 times the risk of being diagnosed with GERD than non-smokers. Conclusion The present study showed a high prevalence of GERD among obese patients in the Al-Baha region, negatively affecting their QOL. Major risk factors included gender, smoking, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Public health programs to raise awareness of these risk factors and lifestyle habits are necessary to improve QOL and prevent complications.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT IN CHRONIC STOMATITIS (I.E. MUKHAPAK) – A CLINICAL CASE STUDY

Stomatitis is an inflammatory ulcer of the mucosa of the oral cavity, which causes a burning sensation and pain. In Ayurveda, it is mentioned as Mukhpaka. Introduction: Objective: To assess the effect of ayurvedic management on Chronic stomatitis (i.e. Mukhapaka). Methodology: Here, a 20-year male patient with complaints of Ulcer over the upper lip, severe pain and burning sensation during eating for the last two months had been diagnosed with Stomatitis, successfully managed with simple Ayurvedic medicine and purgation therapy (virechana karma), within Few days of treatment. Observation and result: Ayurvedic management effectively treats chronic stomatitis (i.e., Mukhapaka). Conclusion: Chronic stomatitis (i.e. Mukhapaka) can be treated with minimal medications within a short period.

AYURVEDIC INTERVENTION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF UTTANA VATARAKTA: A CASE REPORT

Vatarakta is a disease caused when aggravated Vata gets obstructed in its course by aggravated Rakta; the obstructed Vata, inturn, vitiates the Rakta, resulting in the condition called Vatarakta. A single case study shown here, a 76-year-old female patient approached Kayachikitsa OPD with the chief complaint of multiple tortuous veins over bilateral feet for ten years associated with dryness, burning sensation (occasionally), blackish discoloration and itching over the prominent veins for ten years. The patient was treated with Ayurvedic principles, including Samshodhana and Samshamana. The patient’s condition was assessed based on the symptoms of Vatarakta, and the results were remarkable after the treatment.

Effectiveness of Argymax spray in treating xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency

Relevance. Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a prevalent orofacial disorder among pregnant women experiencing isthmic-cervical insufficiency. This condition manifests as a burning sensation in the mouth, pain, and discomfort during eating. A clear correlation exists between pain, taste alterations, and the perception of oral dryness, highlighting the multifaceted impact of xerostomia on affected individuals. Pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency, a complication that significantly increases the risk of preterm labor, are particularly susceptible to xerostomia. This condition is often accompanied by heightened psycho-emotional stress, which can exacerbate the symptoms of dry mouth. Despite the multitude of treatments available for xerostomia, the primary objective for dentists is to formulate an appropriate and effective treatment plan, tailored to the physiological needs of the patient. This study evaluates the efficacy of Argymax spray in alleviating xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency.Materials and methods. A study was conducted involving 84 pregnant women who were assessed and treated over a three-week period to evaluate the rate of mixed saliva secretion. Subjective data were collected using a five-point scale to analyze the reduction in pain potential, itching, and burning. Hygienic and periodontal indices were determined before therapy and three months after the use of the spray.Results. The study demonstrated that Argymax spray begins to act within seven days of initial application and maintains its effectiveness throughout the observation period.Conclusion. Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect both the overall body and the condition of the oral cavity, making it particularly vulnerable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies can prevent the development of several oral mucosal diseases associated with xerostomia. Argymax spray is recommended as symptomatic therapy for the treatment of xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

PREVENTION OF HYSTERECTOMY BY AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ASRUGDARA WITH CYSTIC GLANDULAR HYPERPLASIA: A CASE REPORT

Asrugdara is a condition where there is an occurrence of heavy menstrual bleeding. Excess intake of food, which are excessive Lavana(salty), Amla(sour), Guru(heavy), Katu(hot), Vidahi (producing a burning sensation) and Snigdha (unctuous) etc. leads to this condition. This condition can be correlated with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). Abnormal uterine bleeding is defined as any uterine bleeding outside the normal volume, dura-tion, regularity or frequency is considered as abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). This is a case report of a 41-year-old female patient having complaint of heavy menstrual bleeding with passing of clots for 11 days and ir-regular and early menses for three months. Her ultrasonography report was suggestive of thickened endometrial thickness with chronic cervicitis and a left ovarian simple cyst. She underwent conventional treatment of heavy bleeding, including Dilatation and Curettage (D&amp;C), but was unsuccessful. The histopathology report suggested glandular cystic hyperplasia without atypia. In the allopathic system of medicine, hysterectomy is advised. The patient is diagnosed with Kapha Vataja Asrugadara as per the symptoms. The objective of the present treatment included Ayurvedic management of Asrugadara, ensuring a decrease in the menstrual blood flow and regulariza-tion of the cycle, thereby improving the patient's general condition. The treatment plan included Shamana Chikitsa along with Basti Chikitsa. The treatment outcome was completely relieved of the symptoms with a reg-ular ultrasonography report.

Taste Changes and Salivary Flow Rate Disparities in Premenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: Exploring the Zinc Connection.

Menopause triggers hormonal changes that can manifest in oral symptoms like dysgeusia, xerostomia, and burning sensations, substantially impacting daily life, including chewing, swallowing, and taste perception. Menopausal women are particularly susceptible to nutritional fluctuations, including variations in zinc levels, which are believed to be linked to taste perception. Taste alterations can render food unappetizing, leading to malnutrition and diminished quality of life. The study aims to assess taste alterations, salivary flow rate, and zinc levels in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, investigating the correlation between these factors. This research involved 30 premenopausal and 30 postmenopausal women randomly selected from outpatients at the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Panineeya Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Hyderabad, India. Saliva samples were collected, unstimulated salivary flow rates were measured, taste perception was evaluated using a whole mouth threshold taste test, and serum zinc levels were assessed. The study revealed that a significantly higher percentage of postmenopausal women could not identify sucrose taste at concentrations 1 (76.7%, p = 0.017) and concentrations 2 (56.7%, p = 0.007) compared to premenopausal women (43.3%, 20%, respectively). A statistically significant number of postmenopausal women also couldn't identify the bitter taste at concentration 1 (43.3%, p=0.047) compared to premenopausal women. No significant difference in taste perception of salt and sour was observed between both groups at all tested concentrations. In both groups, mean taste perception rankings were similar, with salt being most perceived, followed by sour bitter, and at least with sucrose. Salivary flow rates and zinc levels did not significantly differ between premenopausal and postmenopausal women. The correlation between zinc levels and taste perception was weak and non-significant, indicating that zinc levels were not significant predictors of taste perception in either group. Postmenopausal women exhibited reduced perceptions of sucrose and quinine hydrochloride, potentially impacting eating habits, while taste perception of sodium chloride and citric acid remained relatively consistent. Salivary flow rates and zinc levels were within the normal range for postmenopausal women up to 60 years of age included in the study. The study demonstrated that zinc levels did not significantly influence perception among postmenopausal women, suggesting that taste impairment is a multifactorial phenomenon.

Efficacy evaluation and exploratory analysis of influencing factors of Banxia Houpu Decoction in the treatment of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Approximately 10% to 40% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) exhibit poor response to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), indicating refractory GERD (RGERD). Banxia Houpu Decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine formula used for treating GERD, particularly for atypical symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the improvement of different symptoms in RGERD patients treated with Banxia Houpu Decoction and identify relevant factors influencing its efficacy. From November 2021 to November 2022, a total of 89 RGERD patients voluntarily participated in this clinical study at our hospital. They were randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups: the Banxia Houpu Decoction group and the Western medicine group. The former received standard-dose Banxia Houpu Decoction, while the latter had a switch in PPI type with double-dose maintenance and the addition of magnesium aluminum carbonate as an acid suppressant. The improvement of different symptoms was compared between the 2 groups. Clinical data, including age, gender, gastric mucosal status, and esophagitis severity, were collected. Univariate analysis was performed to explore factors influencing the therapeutic effect of Banxia Houpu Decoction. Both treatment groups showed significant improvement in Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of GERD (FSSG) scores. The Banxia Houpu Decoction group exhibited the most significant efficacy in relieving throat burning sensation (P = .003) and frequent hiccups (P = .003). It also demonstrated improvement in swallowing difficulty (P = .048) and postprandial abdominal distension (P = .041), surpassing the Western medicine group. The Western medicine group had the most significant improvement in heartburn sensation (P = .008) and showed significant improvement in gastric burning sensation (P = .022), surpassing Banxia Houpu Decoction. Age (P = .025) and gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV) grade (P = .014) were identified as factors influencing the efficacy of Banxia Houpu Decoction. Banxia Houpu Decoction exhibits superior efficacy compared to double-dose PPI combined with acid suppressants in relieving symptoms such as throat burning sensation, swallowing difficulty, and frequent hiccups. It shows significant efficacy in patients under 60 years of age and with GEFV grades I-II.

Comparative Efficacy of Oxitard Capsules and Immusante Tablets in Early Stages of Oral Submucous Fibrosis - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is manifested by symptoms such as palpable fibrotic bands, ulceration, presence of stiffness in the mouth and lip, xerostomia, pigmentation in the oral mucosal layer, and burning sensation and drying of the mouth. It poses a challenge for researchers as there is no viable therapy for this gradually debilitating disorder with a high malignancy potential. Ayurveda is a traditional medicinal practice of the past and present times which can be useful in providing a viable cure. Thus, the current study was designed to assess and compare the effect of Oxitard capsule and Immusante tablet on the clinical and subjective symptoms of OSMF. Material and Methods: The study included 36 patients with clinically diagnosed OSMF who were split evenly into two groups: Group A, the Oxitard group, and Group B, the Immusante group. For three months, Group A received two Oxitard capsules twice daily, while Group B received two Immusante tablets twice daily. At regular intervals, the clinical parameters were evaluated, and the data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA and the Bonferroni post hoc test. P-value≤0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. Results: On assessment of mouth opening, tongue protrusion, cheek flexibility and subjective symptoms there was significant improvement reported in both groups. In group comparison, the Oxitard and Immusante groups showed a significant difference in cheek flexibility at 3 months. There were no significant differences in subjective symptoms in either of the groups pre- and post-treatment. Conclusion: Efficacy of both the drugs were equall was found to be similar when used as an adjunct to tobacco cessation counselling in the management of early stages of oral submucous fibrosis when used as an adjunct to behavioral management.

Cutaneous Application of Capsaicin Cream Reduces Clinical Signs of Experimental Colitis and Repairs Intestinal Barrier Integrity by Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Tight Junction Proteins.

Capsaicin, a pungent compound in chili peppers, is described as having potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is also described as a potential modulator of the immune system and intestinal microbiota. Oral or rectal administration of capsaicin has been studied to treat or prevent colitis. However, those vias are often not well accepted due to the burning sensation that capsaicin can cause. Our objective was to evaluate whether the application of capsaicin skin creams (0.075%) would be effective in improving inflammation and epithelial barrier function as well as the composition of the gut microbiota in a model of mild colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (1.5%). The results showed that the cutaneous application of capsaicin reversed weight loss and decreased colon shortening and diarrhea, all typical signs of colitis. There was also an improvement in the intestinal epithelial barrier, preserving proteins from tight junctions. We also evaluated the biodistribution of 99mtechnetium-radiolabeled capsaicin (99mTc-CAPS) applied to the back skin of the animals. We found significant concentrations of 99 mTc-Cap in the colon and small intestine after 2 and 4 h of administration. In addition, there was an increased expression of capsaicin receptor TRPV1 in the colon. Moreover, animals with colitis receiving cutaneous capsaicin presented a better short-chain fatty acid profile and increased levels of SIgA, suggesting increased microbiota diversity. In conclusion, our work opens avenues for further studies to better understand capsaicin's potential benefits and mechanisms in addressing colitis through cutaneous application.

Unmet Needs in Darier's Disease from a Patient's Perspective: Lessons Learnt from the German Registry.

The MDHHgermany registry was initiated to characterize the "real-life" situation of affected individuals with Darier's disease (DD; Morbus Darier, MD) and Hailey-Hailey disease (HH), including their treatment and healthcare. To gain deeper insights into medical care of patients with DD, various aspects such as demographics, subjective symptoms, patient satisfaction with medical care, past and current therapies were explored. Patients with diagnosed DD were included. Subjective symptoms such as itch, pain and burning sensation were assessed. Individual therapy goals were recorded and patients assessed previous/current therapies along with satisfaction of medical care and treatment. A total of 55 patients were recruited; 47 patients were eligible for the analysis. Pruritus was rated the most bothersome symptom. Some 42.6% had not received systemic treatment so far or systemic therapies were rated ineffective (32.6%). Most commonly oral retinoids were prescribed, followed by corticosteroids. Patient satisfaction with medical care and treatment proved to be mediocre. This "real-life" data show an alarming unmet need regarding patients' satisfaction with medical care and treatment, evidenced by the reported lack of disease control. Further studies and interventions are needed to improve the spectrum of available therapies. MDHHgermany provides a foundational platform for future clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and pathophysiological analyses.