Patrycja Bździuch

Background: Given that the transgender and non-binary community now accounts for as much as 1.2% of the total population, they are becoming an increasingly visible subgroup of patients in the healthcare system. At the same time, research indicates that these patients often experience poorer treatment outcomes or have limited access to services. Discrepancies between medical education and subsequent patient care are addressed by incorporating comprehensive education into medical training. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the first studies exploring healthcare students’ needs regarding transgender healthcare content in medical education in Poland. The aim of the study is to investigate healthcare students’ knowledge of and attitudes towards transgender and non-binary (TGNB) patients, their preparedness to provide healthcare for this population, and their perceived educational needs in this area. Methods: An online survey on educational needs in healthcare of TGNB people was disseminated through social media and posters with a QR code. The survey was anonymous and targeted healthcare students from Poland. For open-ended questions, an inductive thematic analysis was performed. Results: Two hundred and sixty-four students, from medical-related faculties, completed the questionnaire. Two hundred and thirty-two (87.9%) respondents admitted that they had not received any content on healthcare for TGNB patients during their studies to date. One hundred and sixty-one (61.0%) of the respondents believed that content on TGNB patient care should be included in the curriculum. Communication with patients (73.9%) was indicated as the most relevant issues in the care of TGNB patients. Respondents rated their knowledge and skills as lowest in surgical treatment (59.1%) and hormonal treatment (50.0%). One hundred and twenty students (45.5%) did not feel prepared to interact with TGNB patients. Conclusions: Polish healthcare students express an interest in improving their knowledge and skills on the healthcare of TGNB patients. Implementing educational interventions is essential to reduce future gap in medical services access for these patients. Trial registration: The decision number of the Bioethical Committee of the Medical University of Lublin is KE/138/02/24, Date of determination February 29, 2024.

Introduction. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used because of their broad range of therapeutic applications. However, their use, regardless of treatment duration, is associated with the risk of adverse effects, predominantly involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Aim. The aim of this paper is to review the potential GI adverse effects associated with NSAIDs and discuss methods for their prevention. Material and methods. The study was prepared based on a review of literature retrieved from the Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus databases from recent years. The literature was filtered by keywords: ‘nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs’, ‘gastrointestinal’, ‘upper tract’, ‘adverse effects’, proton pump inhibitor’, ‘small bowel’. Results. NSAIDs-related complications involve both the upper and lower GI tract, however their pathogenesis appears to be distinct. The main mechanism of upper GI tract injury involves weakening of the mucosal barrier and its subsequent damage by gastric acid and digestive enzymes, whereas in case of lower GI tract, studies report the direct harmful effects of NSAIDs on the intestinal mucosa, mitochondrial damage, and alterations in the gut microbiota. Key strategies for the prevention of upper GI side effects involve either co-therapy with NSAIDs and PPIs or selective COX-2 inhibitor use. In contrast, due to a different pathogenesis, probiotics, mucoprotective agents, mesalazine and COX-2 inhibitors used as monotherapy may be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of lower GI complications. Conclusions. Each patient should be individually assessed for complications related to a specific part of the GI tract, with treatment adjusted appropriately.

Background. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a global health crisis with a wide spectrum of systemic complications. While incidence and mortality rates are gradually declining, increasing attention is being paid to the long-term effects of COVID-19 including ocular manifestations. Aim. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on ophthalmic findings associated with COVID-19, including their clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and potential long-term consequences. Material and methods. A literature search was conducted in February 2026 using the terms: (COVID-19 OR SARS-CoV-2) AND (ocular OR ophthalmic OR eye) AND (complications OR manifestations). English-language studies published since January 2020 were included. Studies were selected based on title and abstract screening and full-text review. Results. COVID-19 is associated with a wide range of ophthalmic manifestations and complications. Among the most frequently described in the literature are acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN), acute angle closure (AAC), uveitis, and mucormycosis. AMN has been linked to microvascular disturbances following infection. AAC may present with a more severe course, likely influenced by both physiological and behavioral factors. Uveitis may occur de novo or as reactivation of pre-existing disease, with autoimmune mechanisms suggested. An increased incidence of mucormycosis has been observed, particularly in patients treated with corticosteroids and those with diabetes. Conclusions. Ophthalmic complications of COVID-19 are heterogeneous and may result from vascular, immune, and infectious mechanisms. Further research is needed to clarify long-term ocular consequences and optimize patient care.

Background: Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) is a common functional voice disorder characterized by excessive laryngeal and paralaryngeal muscle activity during phonation. The disorder negatively affects vocal quality, communication, occupational functioning, and quality of life. Aim: This narrative review summarizes current evidence regarding the pathophysiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of Muscle Tension Dysphonia. Material and methods: A PRISMA-informed narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Publications from 2003–2025 concerning functional dysphonia, laryngeal muscle tension, diagnostic methods, psychosocial factors, and voice therapy were analyzed. Results: Current evidence indicates that MTD is a multifactorial disorder associated with excessive laryngeal tension, maladaptive vocal behaviors, occupational voice overuse, stress, and impaired respiratory-phonatory coordination. Diagnostic assessment should include perceptual voice evaluation, videolaryngostroboscopy, acoustic analysis, and patient-reported outcome measures. Behavioral voice therapy remains the primary evidence-based treatment. Manual circumlaryngeal therapy, semi-occluded vocal tract exercises, respiratory retraining, and psychosocial interventions may additionally improve clinical outcomes. Conclusions: MTD is a complex biopsychosocial disorder requiring individualized and interdisciplinary management. Further high-quality studies are necessary to standardize diagnostic criteria and optimize therapeutic protocols.

Background. Dysmenorrhea, one of the most common gynecological problems, significantly reduces patients’ quality of life. Standard therapy is based on the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal contraceptives, however it is associated with adverse effects. Alternative treatment methods are being sought, including vitamin supplementation, particularly vitamin D and E. Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of vitamin D and E supplementation in dysmenorrhea. Material and methods. In March 2026, the PubMed database was searched. The following strategies were applied: (Dysmenorrhea OR "menstrual pain") AND ("Vitamin D" OR cholecalciferol OR "vitamin D3" OR "25-hydroxyvitamin D" OR 25(OH)D) and (Dysmenorrhea OR "menstrual pain") AND ("Vitamin E" OR tocopherol OR alpha-tocopherol). Studies published in English within the last 10 years were included. After screening titles and abstracts, full-text analysis was performed. Ultimately, 12 publications were included. Results. An association between vitamin D levels and the severity of menstrual pain was demonstrated, and supplementation led to symptom reduction. Beneficial effects were also observed with the combined use of vitamins D and E, suggesting a possible synergistic effect. The results regarding vitamin E are inconsistent - some studies indicate its effectiveness, particularly in combination with other compounds (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin C), which may be related to its antioxidant properties. However, not all studies confirm this relationship. Conclusions. Vitamin D and E supplementation may be an effective adjunct in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. However, further studies on larger populations are required.

Introduction and purpose: Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) is a multifactorial syndrome that negatively affects a wide range of physiological and psychological functions in athletes. It is often linked to high training loads, inadequate nutrition, and pressures related to performance and body composition. The pursuit of perfection in sport can encourage behaviors such as excessive training and restrictive eating, which increase the risk of developing RED-S. The purpose of this review is to summarize current knowledge on the causes, risks, and consequences of RED-S in athletes. It also aims to provide guidance for effective prevention and management strategies. State of knowledge: RED-S arises when athletes’ energy intake does not meet the demands of training and basic bodily functions, leading to disruptions in endocrine, metabolic, bone, and immune health, as well as mental well-being. It can affect both male and female athletes across a variety of sports, not only those emphasizing leanness. The condition can impair performance, slow recovery, and increase the risk of injuries. Growing awareness of RED-S has led to improvements in screening, diagnosis, and management practices within sports and clinical settings. Conclusions: Despite being motivated by high performance aspirations, striving for an ideal body composition or optimal performance can increase the risk of developing RED-S, which may lead to serious health consequences. Increasing awareness can help promote preventive measures and improve health among the athlete population.

Background. Dupuytren’s contracture (DC) is a fibroproliferative disorder of the palmar fascia, characterized by progressive finger flexion deformities and impaired hand function. The condition has a multifactorial etiology, including genetic predisposition, metabolic factors (e.g., diabetes), and environmental factors such as microtrauma and occupational exposure. Its global prevalence is approximately 8%, highlighting the growing clinical need to optimize treatment strategies. The disorder is also frequently observed in athletes, particularly those engaged in sports involving repetitive hand use, such as field hockey. Objective. The aim of this narrative review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture (DD). The gathered data are intended to support clinical decision-making by comparing available therapeutic approaches. Material and methods. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, covering studies published between 2016 and 2026. References in included articles were also screened. The analysis focused on comparing the effectiveness, recurrence, safety, and functional outcomes of surgical, minimally invasive, and non-surgical treatments. Results. Available evidence indicates that surgical treatment provides the most durable outcomes. Limited fasciectomy remains the reference standard in Dupuytren’s disease, offering the lowest recurrence rates, though it is associated with longer recovery and a higher risk of complications. Minimally invasive approaches enable faster recovery but are associated with higher recurrence rates. Non-surgical and emerging therapies currently lack robust supporting evidence. Conclusions. Treatment should be individualized, balancing effectiveness, recurrence risk, and recovery time. Further studies are needed to define the role of newer therapies and optimize management strategies

Introduction The coexistence of Mayer Rokitansky Küster Hauser syndrome and fetal alcohol syndrome in a minor patient with intellectual disability represents a rare clinical and ethical legal situation. Particular complexity arises from the simultaneous presence of two aspects, the clinical justification for surgical intervention in the presence of functioning endometrium within rudimentary uterine structures, and the process of obtaining informed consent taking into account the patient’s cognitive limitations and the involvement of a legal representative. According to a search of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases using keywords related to MRKH, fetal alcohol syndrome, intellectual disability, and informed consent, no publications addressing these aspects jointly were identified. Aim To analyze a clinical case of Mayer Rokitansky Küster Hauser syndrome in a patient with fetal alcohol syndrome, with a focus on the justification of surgical management and the specifics of obtaining informed consent. Methods A clinical case of a 17-year-old patient with fetal alcohol syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability, evaluated for primary amenorrhea and cyclical lower abdominal pain, is presented. The diagnostic process was based on clinical assessment and imaging methods with karyotype confirmation. Decision making regarding treatment was accompanied by adaptation of communication, assessment of the patient’s decision-making capacity, and the involvement of a legal representative. Results Two non-communicating rudimentary uterine horns with signs of functioning endometrium were identified, which caused cyclical pelvic pain and constituted an indication for surgical treatment. Informed consent was obtained from both the patient and her foster mother following step by step explanation of the diagnosis and treatment options. Laparoscopic removal of the rudimentary uterine structures with bilateral salpingectomy was performed. Postoperatively, resolution of pain and improvement in quality of life were observed. Conclusions The presented clinical case demonstrates the need for coordinated consideration of clinical indications for surgical treatment in MRKH with functioning rudimentary structures and assessment of a minor patient’s capacity to provide informed consent with the involvement of a legal representative. The case illustrates the clinical rationale for intervention and the decision-making process in the context of intellectual disability.

Dermatillomania, also known as skin picking disorder, is a body-focused repetitive behavior associated with significant psychological and physical consequences, particularly among young adults. This narrative review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding its clinical characteristics, diagnostic approaches, prevalence, underlying triggers, and available treatment options, with a focus on its impact on mental health. A targeted literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, including publications from 2015 to 2026. The findings indicate that dermatillomania is relatively common yet frequently underdiagnosed, with onset typically occurring during adolescence. The disorder is strongly associated with emotional dysregulation, stress, and anxiety, and often coexists with other psychiatric conditions such as depressive and anxiety disorders. It can lead to substantial impairment in daily functioning, reduced quality of life, and social withdrawal, largely due to feelings of shame and stigma. Diagnostic assessment relies on established clinical criteria supported by validated screening tools, although challenges in recognition persist. Therapeutic strategies emphasize a multidisciplinary approach. Psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy and habit reversal training, remain the cornerstone of treatment, while pharmacological options - such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and N-acetylcysteine - may provide additional benefit. Despite available interventions, there is still no standardized treatment protocol. In conclusion, dermatillomania represents a significant but often overlooked mental health issue requiring greater clinical awareness, improved diagnostic strategies, and further research to optimize treatment outcomes.

Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is characterized by uterus and vagina aplasia with normal ovary function. The first symptom is primary amenorrhea. It is necessary to exclude potential causes, among which MRKH syndrome takes second place. A 15-year-old patient was first admitted to...