Saudi Medical Journal[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Evaluation of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as Biomarkers in Missed Abortions.
Sonmez AY, Ay Tuncel D
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238287 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the usability and clinical significance. Missed abortion, a common complication in early pregnancy. Diagnosis typically relies on ultrasonographic findings and clinical criteria. The neutrophil-to...
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the usability and clinical significance. Missed abortion, a common complication in early pregnancy. Diagnosis typically relies on ultrasonographic findings and clinical criteria. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio have attracted considerable interest. METHODS: A total of 120 women participated, with 60 diagnosed with missed abortion and 60 with healthy intrauterine pregnancy. This is a retrospective case-control study. Information for the study was gathered from patient file records. Mann-Whitney U Test was used. Logistic regression analysis assessed the magnitude and direction of the relationships between the variables. RESULTS: The youngest participant was 23, while the oldest was 42. There was no significant difference in age between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was conducted using the following variables: white blood cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, main platelet volume, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio. It was determined that WBC, Lymphocyte, Monocyte, NLR and PLR values can effectively predict cases of missed abortion ( < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our study reinforces the hypothesis that inflammatory markers such as the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios could serve as accessible and cost-effective indicators of early pregnancy loss.
Evaluating the Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound and Clinical Predictors in Pediatric Acute Tip Appendicitis: .
Qarnayn AMA, Aljadaan SA, Alaqeel SM … +5 more , Alshehri FS, Algosear AN, Alharthi WA, Alsukait MA, AlShaya KS
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238286 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To examines the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound (US) and the clinical characteristics of pediatric ATA. Acute tip appendicitis (ATA), a rare form of appendiceal inflammation confined to the distal tip, prese...
OBJECTIVE: To examines the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound (US) and the clinical characteristics of pediatric ATA. Acute tip appendicitis (ATA), a rare form of appendiceal inflammation confined to the distal tip, presents with atypical symptoms and is difficult to diagnose. The Confirmation often relies on imaging and surgical pathology. METHODS: A Retrospective cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2020 to 2024. Among 4,224 pediatric patients with acute appendicitis under 14 years, and our sample size of 59 patients were diagnosed with ATA by US. Firth logistic regression was used to reduce bias in the small-sample analysis. RESULTS: Among 59 children diagnosed with acute tip appendicitis (ATA) by US, 32 were confirmed by pathology. Ultrasound demonstrated a sensitivity of 65.6%, specificity of 81.5%, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.804. Firth logistic regression identified abdominal pain (adjusted odds ratio [Adj OR] = 12.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.918-183.2) as a positive predictor, while higher fever (Adj OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.151-0.765) was inversely associated with confirmed ATA. US accuracy was not significantly associated with a return to the emergency department within 30 days ( = 0.826). CONCLUSION: The ATA in children often lacks classic signs like high fever. US has high specificity but moderate sensitivity. Firth logistic regression was effective for analyzing small samples. Greater clinical awareness and optimized imaging use are needed for early detection and improved outcomes.
Women's cardiovascular health in 2025: .
AlRahimi JS
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238285 · Full text
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women globally. Recognition of sex-specific risk factors, pathophysiology, and clinical presentations has established women's cardiovascular health as a re...
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women globally. Recognition of sex-specific risk factors, pathophysiology, and clinical presentations has established women's cardiovascular health as a research and clinical priority. Pregnancy complications, premature menopause, and autoimmune disease, are now identified as long-term contributors to cardiovascular risk, while female-predominant syndromes such as ischemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction are increasingly acknowledged. Novel therapies and updated guidelines emphasize psychosocial determinants, reproductive history, and postpartum risk assessment in prevention and management. Despite these advances, women remain underdiagnosed, undertreated, and underrepresented in clinical trials. Diagnostic delays and limited access to therapies and rehabilitation persist globally, with disparities pronounced in Saudi Arabia, where obesity, diabetes, and hypertension are highly prevalent. Closing these gaps requires sustained investment in sex-specific research, equitable access to evidence-based care, and integration of women's cardiovascular health into national strategies under Saudi Vision 2030.
Growing Evidence for Distinct Clinical Features and Early Diagnostic Age of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma in Saudi Arabia: .
Jfri A, Alharthy RF, Ashqan MY … +2 more , Bogari HO, Alkhashan AY
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238284 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To examine trends in Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL) disease presentation in the Western Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) have heterogeneous clinical presentati...
OBJECTIVES: To examine trends in Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL) disease presentation in the Western Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) have heterogeneous clinical presentation, and disease characteristics can vary between regions and ethnic groups. METHODS: We conducted a local observational study at the Princess Noorah Oncology Center and King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, with CTCL patients referred to and treated in the Saudi Arabian National Guard facilities from January 2017 to December 2023. Medical records of included patients were retrospectively reviewed. Main outcome measures were demographics and clinical characteristics. RESULTS: The cohort comprised 69 CTCL patients. Mean (SD) age at diagnosis was 43.7 (15.6) years. Male patients outnumbered females by 1.38:1. The most frequently diagnosed form of CTCL was mycosis fungoides (MF), representing 72.5% of patients (50/69). Among MF patients, 87.8% had early-stage disease (stage IA-IIA), and the most common skin presentation was pigmented/erythematous patches (72.0%). Among CTCL lesions, 30.0% were hypopigmented and the mean (SD) diagnostic age in hypopigmented MF was 33.7 (16.4) years. CONCLUSION: CTCL presented at a relatively young age in Western KSA. We observed a high prevalence of hypopigmented MF and reported a young mean diagnostic age among hypopigmented MF patients. Our study highlighted the regional variation in CTCL presentation and the importance of investigating trends to facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
Management of Arrhythmias During Pregnancy in Africa.
Aboulmaaty M, Mikhail K, Sogade B
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238283 · Full text
Cardiac arrhythmias represent a significant clinical concern that have been always addressed. Moreover, Pregnancy introduces profound hormonal, autonomic, and hemodynamic changes that add more risk to cardiac patients an...
Cardiac arrhythmias represent a significant clinical concern that have been always addressed. Moreover, Pregnancy introduces profound hormonal, autonomic, and hemodynamic changes that add more risk to cardiac patients and increase arrhythmia susceptibility. In our continent, Africa, there is an added risk because of the high prevalence of rheumatic heart disease, peripartum cardiomyopathy, and limited access to healthcare, contributing to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. This article addresses the epidemics, mechanisms, and management of arrhythmias during pregnancy in African settings, highlighting high-yield real-life cases. We focus on guideline-based management strategies, emphasizing fetal safety, and discuss unique regional challenges, including limited access to drugs and restricted electrophysiology services. Data from a high-volume tertiary center in Egypt demonstrate that the key factors in such settings are multi-team cardio-obstetric care, timely intervention, and a balanced use of advanced electrophysiological techniques, which can achieve the best maternal and fetal outcomes despite constraints.
Sleep Disorder Phenotypes and the Risk of Incident Heart Failure: .
Yan F, Fan L, Chen Y
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238282 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To quantify how specific sleep-disorder phenotypes are related to incident heart failure (HF) using a meta-analysis of cohort data and to probe causal relevance via 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). METH...
OBJECTIVES: To quantify how specific sleep-disorder phenotypes are related to incident heart failure (HF) using a meta-analysis of cohort data and to probe causal relevance via 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). METHODS: Fourteen cohorts comprised of participants without HF at baseline were pooled (49,501 exposed; 337,317 controls). A random effects meta-analysis produced pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A bidirectional two-sample MR was used to evaluate the causal effects of sleep phenotypes on HF. RESULTS: Overall, sleep disorders were linked to a higher incidence of HF (pooled HR 1.46; 95% CI 1.30-1.63; <0.001). In terms of phenotype, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was significantly associated (pooled HR 1.39; 95% CI 1.18-1.64; < 0.001), whereas insomnia was not independently associated with HF (pooled HR 1.11; 95% CI 0.75-1.62; = 0.609). The MR analyses supported a causal effect of OSA on HF (inverse-variance weighted odds ratio 1.12; 95% CI 1.03-1.23; = 0.007) and revealed no causal evidence for insomnia. CONCLUSIONS: Sleep disorders are associated with increased HF risk, which varies by phenotype. Convergent observational and genetic evidence implicates OSA in increased HF risk, whereas insomnia shows no independent or causal association. These findings prioritize OSA screening and targeted prevention in HF risk mitigation.
Advancing Research for Women's Cardiovascular Health: .
Alasnag M
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238281 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Specificities of Aortic Stenosis in Women - From Diagnosis to Management.
Harb Y, Tohme F, Ossaili H … +6 more , Halabi K, Kanso A, Chammas E, Nasr S, Tahini M, Karam N
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238280 · Full text
Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease worldwide, with pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management differing widely according to sex. Women demonstrate predominantly fibrotic valve modi...
Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease worldwide, with pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management differing widely according to sex. Women demonstrate predominantly fibrotic valve modifications and less calcifications for given hemodynamic severity, with left ventricular concentric hypertrophy and smaller cavity size leading to a higher prevalence of paradoxical low-flow, low-gradient AS. These sex differences are modulated by hormonal changes, inflammatory and metabolic pathways, as well as genetic and epigenetic regulators. Atypical symptoms and hemodynamic specificities on echocardiography all combine to create diagnostic challenges that contribute to delayed recognition and intervention. Multimodality imaging, particularly the use of sex-specific calcium scoring cutoffs and CMR-derived fibrosis markers, enhances diagnostic precision. While special considerations such as small valvular annulus and peripheral arteries, have to be taken into consideration, both approaches are safe and beneficial in women. The current manuscript reviews sex specificities of AS, in terms of pathophysiology, diagnosis and management.
Brief Geriatric Assessment (BGA): .
AlAbdulKader AM
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238279 · Full text
The Brief Geriatric Assessment is an approach for rapidly identifying high-risk older adults and guiding timely interventions in busy clinical settings. Unlike the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment, albeit the gold stan...
The Brief Geriatric Assessment is an approach for rapidly identifying high-risk older adults and guiding timely interventions in busy clinical settings. Unlike the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment, albeit the gold standard, which is resource-intensive, the Brief Geriatric Assessment offers a scalable alternative by using validated, time-efficient tools to screen for common geriatric syndromes. This narrative state-of-the-art review synthesizes the evidence and best practices regarding the concept, structure, and clinical application of the Brief Geriatric Assessment. It compares the Brief Geriatric Assessment and Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment from theoretical and practical perspectives and outlines how the former can be integrated into healthcare settings, with a focus on its potential utility within the Saudi healthcare system in the context of population aging and health system transformation. The review findings suggest that the Brief Geriatric Assessment should be more broadly adopted to improve the quality and efficiency of care for older adults.
Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes of Abnormal Placental Localization: .
Varghese B, Abdullatif AA, Hadi YK … +5 more , Alkhuzaei NA, Al Sendy K, Abdulrahman Juma Salem M, Georges Y, Sunder A
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238278 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate maternal and neonatal complications associated with various types of placental abnormal localization. METHODS: This retrospective study analysed obstetric and neonatal outcomes associated with pla...
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate maternal and neonatal complications associated with various types of placental abnormal localization. METHODS: This retrospective study analysed obstetric and neonatal outcomes associated with placental abnormal localization at Bahrain Defence Force Hospital over a 12-month period (January-December 2022). Women were categorized into four groups based on placental localization: placenta previa with accreta, placenta previa with increta, minor previa, and major previa. Maternal demographics, obstetric history, and fetal outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis included Fisher's exact test for categorical variables, the Kruskal-Wallis test for non-parametric variables, and one-way ANOVA for parametric variables. A -value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 186 pregnant women aged 18-48 years with a diagnosis of placenta previa were included. Prior cesarean delivery and increased gravidity were identified as significant risk factors for abnormal placental implantation ( < 0.05). The highest incidence of hysterectomy (66%) occurred in the accrete, previa group. Maternal complications included anaemia, severe haemorrhage, and bladder injury, all of which were statistically significant. Prematurity was the most notable neonatal complication. Most patients had a hospital stay ranging from 3 to 8 days. CONCLUSION: Placenta previa and placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders represent serious obstetric challenges with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity. This study highlights key risk factors and complications, underscoring the importance of early identification and multidisciplinary management strategies to improve outcomes.
Investigating the Use of Antidepressants in Treating Major Depressive Disorder: .
Alsaad HA, Alfaraj WA, Alrababi MM … +4 more , Sonbaa AM, AlBakr DM, Saleh Abensaad A, Alomar FA
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238277 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To investigate patterns of antidepressant prescribing and continuation rates among patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in Saudi Arabia and to identify factors associated with treatment persistence....
OBJECTIVES: To investigate patterns of antidepressant prescribing and continuation rates among patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in Saudi Arabia and to identify factors associated with treatment persistence. METHOD: A retrospective study was conducted at King Fahad Hospital of the University between May 2023 and February 2025. Data on patients' demographic characteristics, diagnostic information, and prescribed medications were collected. Initial antidepressant therapy and treatment continuation were evaluated, and potential influencing factors were analyzed. RESULTS: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) accounted for most first-line prescriptions (71%), followed by SSRI/atypical combinations (11%) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) (5%). Of the 220 patients assessed for treatment continuation, only 38% maintained their initial therapy beyond three months. Continuation was highest among those treated with SNRIs, either alone or in combination with atypical agents, while SSRIs had the lowest persistence rate (35%). Older age and higher BMI were also significantly associated with enhanced treatment adherence. CONCLUSION: Although SSRIs remain the predominant first line treatment for MDD in Saudi Arabia, their limited continuation rates highlight the need for alternative approaches. The comparatively higher persistence observed with SNRIs highlights their potential for long term management. These findings advocate for personalized antidepressant selection and adherence enhancing interventions, thereby improving outcomes in MDD. Future studies should investigate biological markers, such as alterations in BDNF expression, and adjunctive non-pharmacological approaches to better elucidate the variability in treatment outcomes among patients with MDD.
Impact of Nursing Program Structure on Academic Stress Levels and Self-Concept: A Cross-Sectional Study of Nursing Students' Experiences With 2- and 3-Semester Academic Calendars.
Alanazi AA, Alabdullah AAS, HamdanAlshehri H … +1 more , AlMutairi AM
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238276 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To investigate undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of their transition from a 2-semester to a 3-semester academic calendar and examine its impact on academic stress and self-concept. METHODS: A cross-s...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of their transition from a 2-semester to a 3-semester academic calendar and examine its impact on academic stress and self-concept. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and December 2023 among 185 undergraduate nursing students in Saudi Arabia who had completed at least their foundational year. Participants completed an online questionnaire containing Likert-type scales measuring academic stress and academic self-concept. Data were analyzed using -tests and ANOVA to explore associations between perceptions and demographic variables. RESULTS: Most students reported low levels of academic stress and maintained a positive academic self-concept. Perceived stress showed no significant associations with demographic characteristics. However, academic self-concept differed significantly according to academic year and parental status, with fourth-year students and those without children reporting higher academic confidence. CONCLUSION: The transition to a 3-semester academic calendar appeared manageable for undergraduate nursing students, with overall low stress levels and a positive self-concept. While demographics did not influence stress perception, academic year and parental status affected students' confidence. These findings underscore the need for targeted academic support for students in earlier years and those with parental responsibilities.
An Examination of the Effect on Health Protective Behaviour of Diabetes and Obesity Awareness and Personal Characteristics in Adults: .
Soylu A, Şahin P
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238275 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: The World Health Organization has reported that obesity-related diabetes cases are increasing rapidly. The aim of this study was to examine the effect on health protective behaviour of diabetes and obesity aw...
OBJECTIVES: The World Health Organization has reported that obesity-related diabetes cases are increasing rapidly. The aim of this study was to examine the effect on health protective behaviour of diabetes and obesity awareness and personal characteristics in adults. METHOD: This descriptive, cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted with 1241 participants. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Diabetes and Obesity Awareness Scale and Health Protective Behaviour Scale. Data analysis was performed with IBM SPSS vn.23 and IBM AMOS vn.24 software. STROBE was used in reporting. RESULTS: Of the total participants, 45.4% had no diabete and obesity awareness and in 44.3%, awareness was very low. Health protective behaviour was at a moderate level (102.53 ± 16.22). The status of being first-degree overweight was seen to directly affect diabetes and obesity awareness ( = 0.011). There was seen to be a direct effect on health protective behaviour of gender ( = 0.005), and of being overweight ( < 0.001). The diabetes and obesity awareness of those who were second-degree overweight had an indirect effect (mediator affect) on protective health behaviour ( = 0.011). The mediator effect of being second-degree overweight was positive 1.859 units. CONCLUSION: Personal characteristics directly affect diabetes and obesity awareness and protective health behaviour. Body mass index plays a mediating role in demonstrating health-protective behavior as it increases awareness about diabetes and obesity.
Prognostic Significance of Lymphovascular Invasion in Breast Cancer: Insights From a Retrospective Analysis at a Tertiary Care Center.
Trabulsi N, Alotaibi S, Bahabri M … +10 more , Alkhalifah HA, Alshehri GD, Alshali SK, Farsi A, Alhajeili M, Al-Turki H, Sait S, Shabkah A, Ajaboor R, Aljhdali H
Saudi Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 42238274 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To explore the relationship between lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and outcomes across different histopathological subtypes, tumor grades, clinical stages, hormone receptor profiles, and treatment modalities. L...
OBJECTIVE: To explore the relationship between lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and outcomes across different histopathological subtypes, tumor grades, clinical stages, hormone receptor profiles, and treatment modalities. Lymphovascular invasion is a well-recognized histopathological feature associated with tumor dissemination in breast cancer. However, its prognostic weight is under-reported in Middle Eastern cohorts. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data from 828 women treated for invasive breast carcinoma at King Abdulaziz University Hospital from 2010 to 2020. Clinicopathologic variables, treatments, and outcomes were extracted. Overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) were estimated and tested using Kaplan-Meier curves; independent predictors were identified with stepwise Cox models. RESULTS: Lymphovascular invasion was identified in 31.5% of cases, and Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed significantly reduced mean OS (9.94 vs. 12.43 years; < 0.001) and EFS (8.33 vs. 11.23 years; < 0.001) in these patients. Multivariable analysis adjusted for established clinicopathological covariates indicated LVI as an independent predictor of poorer EFS (HR = 1.909, 95% CI 1.218-2.992; = 0.005). Additionally, positive estrogen receptor status conferred lower risk (HR = 0.543; 95% CI: 0.345-0.853; 0.008), while higher pathological N stages (N2 and N3) were correlated with significantly increased hazard ratios for recurrence or death (HR = 3.515 and 4.479, respectively; both < 0.01). Notably, the adverse prognostic impact of LVI persisted across different histological subtypes, hormonal profiles, and treatment modalities. CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore LVI as a robust and independent prognostic factor for poor survival outcomes in breast cancer, with implications for multiple clinicopathologic and therapeutic contexts. These results support the routine incorporation of LVI into prognostic models and treatment algorithms in breast cancer management.
Integrating the Private Sector into Surgical Residency Training: .
Alsaleh NA
Saudi Med J · 2026 Jun · PMID 42238217 · Full text
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Discharge Rates from Pediatric Emergency Departments Against Medical Advice can be Reduced by Improving Service Quality.
Mehri S, Finsterer J
Saudi Med J · 2026 Jun · PMID 42238216 · Full text
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A Retrospective Cohort Study of Uterine Cancer Epidemiological Analysis and Age-Based Disparities in Saudi Arabian Population across 32 Years.
Alshehre SM, Althubiti MA
Saudi Med J · 2026 Jun · PMID 42238215 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To investigate the burden of uterine tumour in Saudi Arabia during the past 32 years (1990-2021), with an emphasize on the prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Knowing...
OBJECTIVES: To investigate the burden of uterine tumour in Saudi Arabia during the past 32 years (1990-2021), with an emphasize on the prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Knowing these patterns strengthen the national aims of cancer control under Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Vision 2030. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed using data retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. The work included population from Saudi Arabia between 1990 and 2021 and tested standardization age-specific metrics, involving uterine tumour incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs. RESULTS: Uterine tumour cases raised from 507 in 1990 to 6,366 in 2021, showing a 1,170% rise. There was an increase in age-based pattern by 206%, with significant raises in women aged 30-54 and a pattern toward earlier onset (ages 34-39). Incidence increased by 300%, from 2.7 to 7.5 per 100,000, with most significant increase noticed in women over 55. DALYs correlated with uterine tumour raised by 500%, mostly affecting aged women. Death due to uterine tumour increased 4 times; the highest death rates taken place in women aged 45-49 years. An unforeseen raise in the mortality was observed among women aged 20-24 years in the period between 2004-2007. CONCLUSION: The study showed an increase in the uterine tumour trends in Saudi Arabia especially in the recent years, underscores the need for upgrading the preventive policies and early detection strategies.
Tumor Markers and Pancreatic Enzymes Reflect Early Pancreatic Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes.
Mohammedsaeed W, Alharbi S, Alraddadi L … +3 more , Aljohani S, Almehmadi T, Alawfi S
Saudi Med J · 2026 Jun · PMID 42238214 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether pancreatic enzymes and tumor markers reflect early pancreatic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study conducted between January...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether pancreatic enzymes and tumor markers reflect early pancreatic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study conducted between January 2023 and January 2024, 300 Saudi adults with T2DM were assessed for serum CA19-9, CA125, amylase, and lipase. Associations with glycemic control, insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]), and metabolic parameters were examined using multivariable linear and logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, diabetes duration, lipid profile, and medication use. Receiver-operating characteristic analyses evaluated biomarker performance for identifying poor glycemic control (HbA1c >8.5%). Exploratory analyses assessed associations with recent acute pancreatitis. RESULTS: Patients with poor glycemic control had significantly higher CA19-9 and CA125 levels and lower amylase and lipase levels (all < 0.05). HbA1c and HOMA-IR remained independent predictors of tumor marker elevation and enzyme reduction after adjustment. Adjusted area under the curve values for detecting poor glycemic control were 0.81 for CA125, 0.79 for CA19-9, 0.75 for lipase, and 0.73 for amylase. A high-risk biomarker profile, defined as elevated CA19-9 or CA125 combined with low amylase or lipase, was associated with recent acute pancreatitis (adjusted odds ratio 2.3; 95% confidence interval 1.3-4.2). CONCLUSION: In T2DM, elevated tumor markers and reduced pancreatic enzyme activity are associated with poor glycemic control and insulin resistance and may indicate early pancreatic dysfunction. These biomarkers may aid risk stratification and warrant evaluation in prospective studies.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Nosocomial Bacteria across Different Units at King Faisal Complex Hospital, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Hawsawi N, Al-Jaiud RN, Khyyat LL … +2 more , Alsulimany K, Shabat M
Saudi Med J · 2026 Jun · PMID 42238213 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: Nosocomial infections significantly impact patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. To determine the prevalence, bacteriological profiles, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and resistance dist...
OBJECTIVES: Nosocomial infections significantly impact patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. To determine the prevalence, bacteriological profiles, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and resistance distribution of pathogens causing nosocomial infections at King Faisal Medical Complex, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2023 and March 2024 at different hospital units following ethical approval. Samples (n = 667) were collected from patients (both genders; all ages) exhibiting infection symptoms ≥48 h post-admission and pre-antibiotic administration. Bacterial identification involved culture, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the Phoenix100 system. RESULTS: Of 667 patients, 55% were men/boys, and 45% were aged 14-59 years. The highest infection rate was noted in the intensive care unit (26%), followed by the male surgical (19%) and medical wards (14%). The female surgical ward (10%) had the lowest infection rate. The most common sample sources were urine (28%), blood (17%), wound and sputum (16%), and swabs (15%). Gram-negative bacteria (mainly and 70%) predominated over gram-positive bacteria ( and ; 30%). Multidrug-resistant pathogens were most frequent in the intensive care unit (ICU) 37.6%, with gram-positive isolates exceeding gram-negative isolates. CONCLUSION: Our results highlight the prevalence of nosocomial infections in different hospital units, with and as dominant pathogens. The high prevalence of multidrug-resistance warrants continuous surveillance and tailored antimicrobial stewardship programs to combat resistance.
Contribution of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) to Body Defense and Healing in Pulmonary Tuberculosis.
Junaidi H, Adi AC, Soedarsono … +8 more , Soetjipto, Wahyuni CU, Syahrul F, M Kes M, S Km Z, Arfan I, Mamun AA, Sari R
Saudi Med J · 2026 Jun · PMID 42238212 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To examine the contribution of IL-6 to host defense and healing in pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Pulmonary tuberculosis continues to pose a significant global health challenge, with disease outcomes determined...
OBJECTIVE: To examine the contribution of IL-6 to host defense and healing in pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Pulmonary tuberculosis continues to pose a significant global health challenge, with disease outcomes determined by complex host-pathogen interactions. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional cytokine, has been implicated in immune regulation and tissue recovery during TB, but its specific role is not fully established. This review aimed to examine the contribution of IL-6 to host defense and healing in pulmonary TB. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Medline following PRISMA guidelines, covering publications from 2015 to 2025. Search terms included "pulmonary tuberculosis," "IL-6," "Immune response," and "Healing." Eligible studies were human-based, published in English, and provided full-text access. Data extraction focused on study design, population, IL-6 sample type, and findings related to immune response and healing. RESULTS: Evidence consistently demonstrated IL-6 as a key modulator of TB immunity. IL-6 supports macrophage activation, T-cell differentiation, and granuloma formation, enhancing host defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Additionally, IL-6 regulates inflammation and promotes tissue repair, contributing to recovery. However, dysregulated or excessive IL-6 activity was linked to heightened inflammation and lung pathology, indicating a dual role in both protection and potential tissue damage. CONCLUSION: Interleukin-6 is central to immune defense and healing in pulmonary TB, exerting protective effects while requiring precise regulation to prevent pathological outcomes. Future research should clarify underlying mechanisms and explore IL-6-targeted strategies for improved TB treatment.
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