Kaszubsko-Pomorska Szkoła Wyższa

Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent and increasingly recognized disorder of the ocular surface that poses a significant clinical and public health challenge worldwide. Its complex and heterogeneous nature reflects the interplay of tear film instability, inflammation, epithelial dysfunction, and neurosensory abnormalities. The evolving understanding of DED pathophysiology has led to substantial changes in diagnostic criteria and therapeutic paradigms, shifting from purely symptomatic management toward mechanism-based and individualized approaches. Ongoing advances in molecular biology, immunology, and biomedical technology continue to reshape the therapeutic landscape of DED. In light of the growing clinical burden and the evolving understanding of DED as a complex, multifactorial disorder of the ocular surface characterized by loss of tear film homeostasis, hyperosmolarity, inflammation, and neurosensory abnormalities—as defined by the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society in the TFOS DEWS III report—the purpose of this study was to comprehensively review the current evidence regarding DED pathophysiology, risk factors, classification, diagnostic algorithms, and contemporary therapeutic strategies, with particular emphasis on mechanism-based and emerging treatments.

Background: Pachychoroid pigment epitheliopathy (PPE) is a non-exudative entity within the pachychoroid disease spectrum characterized by increased choroidal thickness and isolated serous pigment epithelial detachment (PED) without subretinal fluid. Although photodynamic therapy (PDT) is established for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), its efficacy in isolated pachychoroid-related PED remains insufficiently defined, with available evidence limited to small case series. Purpose: This study aims to characterize symptomatic pachychoroid-related PED and evaluate anatomical and functional outcomes following half-dose PDT (hd-PDT), with additional analysis according to lesion localization and CSC history. Methods: This retrospective study included 34 eyes of 27 patients treated with hd-PDT between June 2022 and December 2024. PEDs were categorized as central (fovea-involving) or paramacular. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography parameters-central subfield thickness (CST), mean subfield thickness (MST), macular volume (MV), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), and PED height-were assessed at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months. Treatment planning was based on indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) findings. Statistical analyses employed non-parametric tests and generalized estimating equations. Results: Central lesions were associated with longer disease duration, worse baseline BCVA, and greater retinal thickness and PED height (p < 0.05). Complete PED resorption occurred in 79.4% of eyes at 1 month and 73.5% at 6 months (central: 86.3% and 81.8%; paramacular: 66.6% and 58.3%). Mean BCVA improved significantly from 0.22 ± 0.24 to 0.10 ± 0.16 logMAR at 6 months (p < 0.0001), with greater functional gain in central lesions. Significant reductions were observed in CST, MST, MV, and PED height, whereas SFCT remained stable. Better final BCVA correlated with younger age, shorter disease duration, smaller baseline retinal volume, smaller PDT spot size, and absence of CSC history. Non-responders had worse baseline BCVA, higher PED height, and larger treatment areas. No treatment-related complications were detected. Conclusions: Half-dose PDT was associated with favorable anatomical and functional outcomes in symptomatic pachychoroid-related PED, particularly in centrally located lesions. Baseline disease severity appeared to influence treatment response. Prospective studies with longer follow-up are warranted to confirm long-term efficacy and safety.

Introduction and objective: Insomnia is one of the most prevalent sleep disorders in the adult population, thereby new methods of pharmacological treatment ought to be analyzed. Current novelty in insomnia treatment is daridorexant, a representative of the dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA). Given that, the orexin system becomes overactive with age, explaining sleep of lower quality and quantity observed in older population, it is worth analysing the effect of the dual receptor antagonist (DORA) on the insomnia issue in older adults, and whether it proposes a safer choice among the existing pharmacological possibilities. Review methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing studies from the PubMed database of articles published between 2020 and 2025. Brief description of the state of knowledge: Insomnia treatment is based on both non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods. While among non-pharmacological methods cognitive-behavioral therapy is the one recommended, the choice of proper pharmacotherapy can impose more difficulties. The most commonly used medications, nonbenzodiazepine sedative hypnotics, lead to serious adverse effects and impose a risk of dependency. Daridorexant, a medication of proven efficacy, may propose a safer alternative, and furthermore, a more effective one. Summary: In this review, we decided to analyse the existing literature to present the current state of knowledge on the above-mentioned issue with a perspective of the future of this branch of medicine.

Introduction: Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by anterior segment dysgenesis and diverse systemic anomalies. Mutations in genes such as PITX2 and FOXC1 are most commonly implicated in its pathogenesis. The condition significantly affects vision, primarily due to structural disruption of the visual axis and the high incidence of secondary glaucoma. Aim of the study: The purpose of this study is to provide an updated overview of Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, with emphasis on its historical background, genetic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and current therapeutic strategies. Research materials and methods: A systematic review of scientific and medical literature was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Conclusions: Genetic testing and comprehensive clinical evaluation are crucial for accurate diagnosis and optimal management of ARS. Due to its multisystem nature, care should be coordinated within a multidisciplinary framework. Early recognition of glaucoma and other systemic manifestations is essential to improve long-term outcomes.

Introduction In 2020, around 325,000 new melanoma cases were diagnosed globally, with 57,000 resulting deaths. The highest incidence was observed in Australia and New Zealand, while much lower rates occurred in African and Asian countries. Melanoma was generally more common in males. The global rise in melanoma—possibly linked to increased travel and tanning device use—calls for identification of modifiable risk factors and predictors. Lifestyle elements, especially physical activity and body weight, play a major role in cancer risk and progression. Purpose of research This review aims to explore how physical activity and related factors affect melanoma risk and disease progression. It also examines sun-protection awareness, behaviors, and melanoma risk among outdoor athletes. Materials and methods In 2025, a literature review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on English-language studies analyzing the link between amateur or professional physical activity and melanoma. Search terms included "physical activity," "exercise," "athletes," "melanoma," and "photoprotection." Summary Numerous preclinical studies examine the influence of physical activity on the tumor microenvironment. Another key focus is the impact of exercise on melanoma patients undergoing immunotherapy. Epidemiological data emphasize sun exposure as a major risk factor, particularly for physically active individuals. Therefore, consistent use of sun protection is essential from an early age, especially for both professional and recreational athletes. Primary care physicians should conduct regular skin exams for active individuals, particularly swimmers. Future research should explore both behavioral and biological mechanisms and determine whether physical activity independently affects melanoma risk markers, such as telomere length and naevus count.

ABSTRACT Skin disorders are often associated with ocular symptoms. In this review, we aim to identify the most common ocular manifestations observed in selected dermatological diseases, specifically psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and pemphigus. We highlight key ophthalmological conditions linked to these diseases to raise awareness among ophthalmologists who may encounter patients with these dermatological conditions in their clinical practice. Analyzing the original studies, the most common ocular manifestations include various types of inflammation, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis. Additionally, more severe conditions, such as keratitis, uveitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction, are frequently observed. Ocular symptoms in pemphigus vulgaris and rosacea can precede dermatological signs. Dry eye disease is commonly seen across various dermatological conditions. Treatments like calcineurin inhibitors (used for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis) have shown efficacy for both dermatological and ocular symptoms. In atopic dermatitis, the use of dupilumab has been linked to increased rates of conjunctivitis, necessitating collaboration between dermatologists and ophthalmologists to distinguish drug side effects from disease manifestations. Psoriasis treatments, including phototherapy and biologics like secukinumab and ustekinumab, require careful monitoring for potential ocular effects, as their safety profiles are still being evaluated. For ocular rosacea, cyclosporine has demonstrated superior efficacy over doxycycline in managing symptoms such as burning and corneal involvement. This review underscores the importance of recognizing the interplay between dermatological and ocular health. Early diagnosis, interdisciplinary collaboration, and tailored treatments are essential for managing these complex conditions effectively.

Artykuł przedstawia metodę narracyjną i narzędzia komunikacji o dziejach Kaszubów w nowej instytucji kultury na Pomorzu i Kaszubach — Bibliotece prof. Gerarda Labudy należącej do Muzeum Literatury i Muzyki Kaszubsko-Pomorskiej w Wejherowie. To właśnie ten badacz z Kaszub ustalił przed laty, że rozpoczynając naukowe badanie historii Kaszub należy pisać o dziejach Kaszubów jako historii gminy i etnosu pomorskiego. W ten sposób narracyjny zastosował się również zespół przygotowujący wystawę stałą w Bibliotece.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Although progress in the development of new drugs over the last two decades has expanded treatment options for this disease, many significant problems relating to their optimization remain to be solved. Data on the cancer knowledge and the healthy behavior and lifestyle in patients with colorectal cancer in Poland is missing. We analyzed the course and results of treatment of first-line chemotherapy in 165 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer treated between May 2010 and December 2013. The respondent's knowledge in the field of cancer and their lifestyle before and after the treatment were rated. The results were compared with a control group. Mean age was 60.89±8.69years, median 59years. The general knowledge about cancer and the level of healthy lifestyle before treatment were low. After treatment, both the knowledge about cancer and the level of healthy lifestyle increased compared to the control group. There was a clear relationship between the level of knowledge about cancer and the willingness to adopt attitudes and healthy behavior by patients. In our analysis, the overall quality of life in patients treated with first-line palliative chemotherapy of colorectal cancer did not change during treatment. Our results indicate the need to implement an educational program on cancer prevention in treated patients, and the analysis of quality of life and other factors than treatment effect remains controversial.

Haddad syndrome is a rare genetically conditioned disease. We present a female newborn with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome associated with Hirschprung's disease. The infant is mechanically ventilated and parentally fed in a home setting. The diagnosis has been confirmed by the presence of 20/26 PHOX2B genetic mutation.