Articles

Melanoma is a highly malignant neoplasm arising from melanocytes, which are melanin-producing neural crest cells primarily located in the basal layer of the epidermis, making cutaneous melanoma the most common subtype. However, melanocytes are also found in other anatomical locations, and primary non-cutaneous melanomas, though rare, have been documented. Due to the aggressive nature of this malignancy, it carries a poor prognosis, particularly because it tends to metastasize to various, often atypical, sites. Recognizing these variable presentations is essential for timely diagnosis. Here, we report a rare case of metastatic brain melanoma in a young female and review the relevant literature, highlighting the importance of imaging in identification.

Meningiomas, classical extra-axial dural-based tumors of the meninges, have well-documented classical imaging features and signs on CT and MRI. Most meningiomas are classical lesions with prompt diagnosis on imaging and generally exhibit benign outcomes with slow growth patterns. The latest WHO classification of tumors in 2021 has classified 15 subtypes of meningiomas, and while classical meningiomas are WHO Grade 1 tumors, grading between varying subtypes varies between WHO Grades 1 and 3. The microcystic meningioma is a rare and atypical subtype of meningioma that has been sparsely documented in literature. In this case report, we revisit this rare subtype of meningioma with a brief review of literature.

Introduction: The rise in cesarean section rates globally has led to a growing population of women with uterine scars, necessitating more targeted obstetric care in subsequent pregnancies. These women are faced with the decision of attempting vaginal delivery after cesarean section (VBAC) or opting for an elective repeat cesarean section. The likelihood of a VBAC depends on various factors both maternal and fetal, gathered in two known scores Grobman and Zhang, utilizing them could make VBAC successful and more widely attempted.  This study aims to validate the prognostic of these scores in a Moroccan population.Objectives:•    Validate the international predictive scores (Grobman and Zhang) for the probability of a successful VBAC in the Moroccan population.•    Explore additional criteria specific to the Moroccan population and develop a simplified VBAC score.  Results:•    Out of 2,973 women with a cesarean history, 313 attempted  TOLAC, 79% of these attempts were successful VBAC.•    The characteristics of successful VBAC included lower BMI, previous vaginal birth, lower estimated fetal weight, younger maternal age, and more favorable cervical conditions at admission.•    The Grobman and Zhang scores showed good predictive accuracy, with both models achieving 82.2% accuracy.•    When dividing women into groups based on predicted success (using both Grobman and Zhang scores), significant differences were found in success rates across different probability categories.Conclusion: Both Grobman and Zhang’s models were effective in predicting VBAC success in the Moroccan population, with a slight preference for the Zhang model. However, further research is needed to validate these models in clinical practice. It could involve developing a more population-specific model.

Mucinous cystadenoma constitutes 15% of epithelial ovarian tumors. In resource limited setting they may reach huge size as there is no regular medical checkup. This case series highlights these aspects along with diagnostic and surgical considerations.

Background: In addition to being used to keep babies clean and comfortable, baby care products may also include hazardous substances that are harmful to the baby’s health. To safeguard the health of new-borns, it is crucial to understand the potential toxins included in baby care products.Objective: This paper focuses on the very bothering aspect of baby care products. The objective of this study is to identify and summarise the effect of toxicants present in baby care products including their source, exposure, toxicity, and adverse effects on infants.Methods: Utilizing several internet databases including various open source, including PubMed, Scopus, and research gate, a thorough literature search was carried out. The review covered articles that were written in English and published in last fifteen years. Studies reporting on the sources, effects, and potential exposure pathways of toxicants found in infant care products have been included.Result: The study deals with a list of harmful toxicants like phthalates, asbestos, parabens, heavy metals, sodium laurel sulphates, etc., and their sources and modes of exposure. Exposure to toxicants such as phthalates, asbestos, parabens, heavy metals, and sodium laurel sulphates can lead to cancer, developmental disorders, and endocrine disruption.Conclusion: It can be concluded that baby care products are having adverse effects on infants, on their skin or health, or in other ways. To avoid the same, the root cause of it should be avoided, which is the inclusion of toxicant chemicals in such baby care products. Parents and caretakers should be aware of the dangers of toxicant chemicals in baby care products and use non-toxic products to protect their babies' health, while manufacturers should use safer components. Government and authorized agencies should enforce restrictions.

Background: Acral Fibromyxoma (AFM) is a rare benign soft tissue tumour which is described as a fibromatous and myxoid tumour of skin and soft tissue. Case details: A 40-year-old  male presented to the Dermatology outpatient department with swelling over the wrist of one year duration. The swelling was associated with mild pain, and it gradually increased in size to reach its present size. Cutaneous examination revealed a 2x2 cm mobile, cystic to firm, non-tender swelling over the dorsum of the right wrist. Based on its location and clinical features, it was provisionally diagnosed as a ganglion cyst  and excision biopsy was done. Histology showed stellate-shaped cells in a myxoid background with round to oval nuclei having a small, inconspicuous nucleolus. Acral fibromyxoma presents a distinct histopathology including a myxoid stroma and spindle-shaped cells, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

Cystoid Macular Oedema (CMO) is a condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the macular region of the retina, leading to the formation of cyst-like spaces. This edema often results in visual impairment and is associated with various ocular and systemic conditions, including surgery, inflammation, or medication use. The authors present a case where Cystoid Macular Oedema (CMO) occurred after commencing topical bimatoprost in a pseudophakic patient with primary open angle glaucoma. The macular oedema was treated effectively with a combination of non-steroidal and steroidal topical drops. This case report shows a possible correlation between bimatoprost and CMO, in a patient with no recent confounding risk factors known to contribute to CMO . The recommendation from this report is that all patients treated with topical bimatoprost drops should have a baseline macula OCT examination and a repeated OCT examination 8 weeks after initiation of treatment, to facilitate early detection of CMO.

Stress in acute stroke may increase mortality and complications, but there is a paucity of information on the efficacy of beta blockers  over other anti-hypertensive. To report efficacy of metoprolol over amlodipine in reducing mortality, disability and infections in acute stroke. CT/MRI confirmed stroke patients within 3 days of onset were included whose age was 18 to 75 years. Patients with secondary intracerebral hemorrhage, organ failure, pregnancy, malignancy, and immunosuppressant or on beta-blocker/amlodipine were excluded. Stroke risk factors, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and CT/MRI findings were noted. Patients with a blood pressure of > 160/90 mm of Hg were randomized using 1:1 randomization to metoprolol (25 mg on day 1, 50 mg if BP is not controlled) or amlodipine (2.5 mg on day 1, then 5 mg then 10 mg on, subsequent days if BP is not controlled). Other standard treatment was continued. The primary outcome was mortality at 1 month; secondary outcomes included  were in-hospital gastrointestinal hemorrhage, pneumonia, sepsis and 3 months functional outcome based on modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Side effects were noted. 18 (14.4%) patients died; 6 (9.7%) in metoprolol and 12 (19%) in amlodipine (p = 0.20) group. At 3-months, 66 patients had good outcome; 45 (80.4%) in metoprolol and 21 (43.3%) in amlodipine group (p < 0.001). The other secondary outcomes were comparable between the two groups. Metoprolol was withdrawn in 6 patients due to bradycardia, and amlodipine in 5 due to hypotension and in 1 due to allergic reaction. Metoprolol is associated with improved functional outcomes in acute stroke  compared to amlodipine.

Background: Human trafficking is a significant global issue that affects millions of individuals, where victim identification remains a major challenge. Traditional methods such as DNA or fingerprint analysis are not always viable, necessitating alternative forensic approaches.Methods: This article reviews the role of dental identification  in human trafficking cases through an extensive analysis of existing literature. The study incorporates forensic odontology techniques, including dental charting, radiographic analysis, bite mark analysis, age estimation, and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).Results: Findings indicate that dental identification methods are essential for victim identification, especially when conventional methods prove ineffective. AI integration enhances the accuracy and efficiency of dental forensic investigations, addressing challenges such as record access and cross-border complexities.Conclusion: Dental identification, augmented by AI advancements, is an indispensable tool in forensic investigations related to human trafficking. The study underscores the necessity of international collaboration and technological innovation to enhance forensic practices.

Multiple stab wounds are a critical forensic indicator, frequently linked to violent assaults, homicides, or self-inflicted injuries. These penetrating injuries result from sharp-edged weapons such as knives, daggers, or other pointed instruments. The depth, size, and severity of the wounds depend on factors including the type of weapon used, the force applied, and the anatomical location of impact. Forensic examination of stab wounds is essential in determining the manner of death—homicidal, suicidal, or accidental. Detailed analysis of wound characteristics, such as depth, trajectory, and associated injuries, aids in crime scene reconstruction. Additionally, identifying defensive wounds can indicate victim resistance, further supporting forensic interpretations. A meticulous forensic autopsy, including weapon analysis and internal organ assessment, is crucial in establishing the cause of death. These findings play a vital role in medico-legal investigations, providing key forensic evidence that supports legal proceedings and ensures justice.