Folia Medica Cracoviensia

Henryk Kadyi’s (1851–1912) work in anatomical research is closely related to researching fundamental problems of preserving anatomic specimens for science and teaching. The goal of this study is to describe the professional life of Henryk Kadyi, to highlight his achievements for modern anatomy and to use his story to demonstrate the importance of mentoring, international scientific communication and cross border cooperations for scientific success. The development of novel conservation methods gained him enormous respect of the scientific community and secured him a place in the history of medicine. Kadyi was educated in Vienna and shaped by Hyrtl and Langer. He then started residency in Krakow, where he was supervised by Teichmann, a disciple of Hyrtl. There, he received a call for professorship in Lviv. At each location, he was influence by local conditions, which improved his anatomical skills. This is a good example of the interconnection of knowledge, skills, scholarship, and scientific tradition between academic centers — in this case, Vienna, Krakow, and Lviv in the second half of the 19th century. Our paper focuses on Kadyi’s preparatory techniques with a particular emphasis on the influence that the education and skills acquired in Vienna and Krakow had on them and how they were shaped when Kadyi was already an independent researcher in Lviv.

14-year-old patient with a long-standing history of seasonal, recurrent eczematous eruptions since infancy was referred to our dermatology clinic due to progression of skin lesions and intense pruritus. Physical examination revealed erythematous, infiltrated plaques with erosions and post-inflammatory dyspigmentation, predominantly on the extensor surfaces of the limbs. The trunk and face were unaffected. Laboratory testing revealed mild relative eosinophilia (5.6%) in the complete blood count. Other routine tests were within normal limits. Histopathological examination of a biopsy specimen from the upper limb revealed features of acute eczema corresponding to Sulzberger-Garbe dermatosis. This case highlights a rare pediatric manifestation of Sulzberger-Garbe dermatosis. Although classically described in adult males, the condition should also be considered in adolescents with chronic, pruritic dermatoses unresponsive to conventional treatment. Comprehensive differential diagnosis — including allergy screening and histopathologic evaluation — is essential to exclude other dermatoses that share similar clinical features.

Occlusal X-rays, as intraoral radiographs, have been used in radiological diagnostics in dentistry for ages. Occlusal X-rays cover a larger imaging field and have a complementary function to other intraoral two-dimensional radiographs. Since the introduction of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), the use of such X-rays has decreased significantly. Nevertheless, due to patients’ low exposure to ionizing radiation, occlusal X-rays provide an alternative to three-dimensional techniques (CBCT). This paper presents state-of-the-art occlusal techniques and discusses their contemporary applications which are currently not limited to dental X-ray diagnostics.

Introduction: The carotico clinoid foramen (CCF) is an anomalous foramen that is formed due to ossification of carotico clinoid ligament (CCL) in the sphenoid bone with a reported prevalence of around 8%. Ossified CCL is of tremendous clinical relevance considering its intimate relationship with important neurovascular structures in the parasellar region such as internal carotid artery, cavernous sinus, optic nerve and the pituitary gland. Case presentation: This report describes a case of bilateral ossification of CCL that was incidentally observed in a dry human skull during routine demonstration to medical undergraduate students. In the present case, ossified CCLs were observed spanning the tips of the anterior and the middle clinoid processes bilaterally and they formed two distinct oval CCF on either side. Discussion: Variable incidence of ossified CCL has been reported in anatomical studies. The exact reason for the ossification of CCL and other periclinoid ligaments are not known. Developmental anomalies of the sphenoid bone, ossification of fibrous tissue of the ligaments or the folds of dura mater bridging the interclinoid region are thought to be underlying reasons. The presence of a complete or partially ossified CCL can affect the internal carotid artery (ICA), cavernous sinus, its contents and the pituitary gland etc. Ossified CCL and CCF can lead to misinterpretation in radiological investigations and might pose difficulty in neurosurgical access and interventions in the skull base. Conclusions: Considering the modest prevalence of carotico clinoid ligament across all major races, preoperative recognition of the same in imaging studies is warranted before approaching any parasellar intracranial lesions.

Introduction: Natural hallucinogens have been known since ancient times and were widely used in religious, shamanic, and folk rituals, as well as in traditional medicine. These compounds originate from plants, animals, and fungi and exhibit considerable diversity. Different groups of substances vary in their mechanisms of action, receptor responses, effects induced, and therapeutic applications. Hallucinogens are misused worldwide to achieve specific sensations and altered states of consciousness; therefore, their investigation is necessary to assess safety and predict long-term consequences of abuse. Some of these substances demonstrate pharmacological potential and are currently being studied for their possible use in the treatment of various conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and pain. Recent studies also indicate their potential role in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Due to their wide-ranging therapeutic applications, psychedelics have become the subject of increasing scientific interest. Aim of the study: The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature on natural hallucinogens of plant origin, with particular emphasis on their biological activity and neuropharmacological properties. It also highlighted their potential for possible therapeutic use. Methodolog y: The review was conducted using scientific databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, as well as relevant textbooks. Keywords were searched in both English and Polish, including hallucinogens, plant-derived hallucinogens, substance abuse, toxicology. The literature reviewed covered the years 1998 to 2025. Conclusions: Natural plant-derived hallucinogens exhibit substantial diversity in terms of psychostimulant effects, safety profiles, addictive potential, and therapeutic applicability. Their activity across multiple neurotransmitter systems presents a promising avenue for the development of novel treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders. However, further in-depth research is required to fully elucidate their mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and potential adverse effects. Continued investigation into their therapeutic potential and clinical applications is essential.

The mast cell is an immune cell involved primary in host defense of organism. Moreover, it plays an important role in atopic diseases. Recently, accumulating evidence established the contribution of the mast cell in atherogenesis. Through its release of mediators, activated mast cells can have proatherogenic effects on its surroundings in the vessel wall. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge on mast cell function in atherogenesis and atherosclerosis — caused cardiovascular diseases.

Imaging diagnostics, supported by advances in medical equipment and software, is a dynamically evolving field of medicine. Methods that improve the precision of disease detection are currently in high demand. This paper discusses spectral computed tomography (CT), specifically dual-energy computed tomography (DECT), which is a modern and advanced imaging technique offering significant advantages over conventional single-energy CT (SECT). DECT provides additional diagnostic information and reduces the effective dose of ionizing radiation to the patient. A key benefit of DECT is its ability to reduce image artifacts compared to SECT. The article explains the operating principles of DECT and reviews its clinical indications, with a focus on neuroradiology. Special attention is given to the differentiation of intracranial hemorrhage from calcifications and distinguishing fresh blood from iodinated contrast media — especially in overlapping areas — through the interpretation of base pair images. DECT also plays an important role in evaluating the progression of intracerebral hematomas and detecting the “spot sign” in CT angiography (CTA) of the brain. Another application is in imaging the vascular system of the head and neck using DECTA, where bone removal and virtual non-contrast image reconstruction are particularly useful. The final section of the paper addresses artifact reduction methods in neuroradiology and outlines the key advantages and limitations of DECT in clinical practice.

Immunoassays are widely utilized in urine drug screens due to their simplicity, ease of automation, and rapid results, making them the standard for clinical and workplace drug testing, as well as in rehabilitation programs and legal systems. However, the potential for cross-reactivity with both structurally related and unrelated compounds increases the risk of false-positive results. This poses significant challenges for healthcare professionals, especially in populations undergoing routine drug testing, such as those in recovery or court-ordered monitoring programs. The ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States, which has resulted in countless deaths from both prescription and illicit opioids, underscores the critical importance of accurate drug detection methods. This review evaluates specialized drug assays, highlighting their effectiveness and limitations. While immunoassays are highly sensitive, they often lack specificity, increasing the risk of false positives, which can affect clinical and legal decisions. This research also details substances prone to causing false positives, aiding clinicians in making informed diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.

Blood supply of the uterus raised interest of the scientists since early 19th century. Fundamental works of anatomists from German circle brought not only solutions but also new questions. Nowadays knowledge on the vasculature of the female internag genital organs plays leading role in many procedures, mostly endovascular, i.e. embolisation techniques used for treatment of uterine fibroids, ectopic pregnancies, bleedings etc. This paper brings a short summary of our knowledge on the vascularization of the uterus with special respect to the uterine cervix. It shows the path which led the scientists from ancient times until the modern period to discover the mysteries of vascular anatomy of this specific area.

In Poland, preterm infants account for 6–7% of all births. Preterm deliveries are associated with a number of short- and long-term health conditions and therefore pose a major public health challenge. Monitoring the psychomotor development of children born prematurely is a significant challenge for pediatricians and neonatologists. Early diagnosis of delayed functional development enables timely therapeutic intervention by developmental specialists, such as physiotherapists, educators, psychologists, and speech therapists. Currently, monitoring the development of preterm infants during the first year of life is common practice. However, due to the significant percentage of late preterm infants in the population of prematurely born newborn population, there is a justified need to focus on the periodic assessment of their functional development also beyond the first year of life. Regular and multidimensional developmental monitoring in this group of patients is crucial due to the increased risk of subtle but clinically significant developmental delays that may manifest at later stages of life.

Background: Hand (finger and metacarpal) fractures are common in surgical practice, usually affecting adolescents and young adults. Treatment of these injuries is generally conservative, with generally good results. However, since the end of the 20th century, as a result of the offensive of manufacturers of implants, surgical treatment have attracted increasing popularity, although there was no scientific basis for it. Objective of this study was literature review focused on outcomes of conservative treatment of hand (metacarpal and phalangeal) fractures. Methods: Articles from PubMed and Medline databases on the methods and outcomes of conservative treatment of hand fractures published in last 10 years were reviewed. Results. A total of 10 studies meeting inclusion criteria were identified. Three were focused on finger fractures, two — on metacarpal shaft fractures and five — on the fifth metacarpal neck fractures. Results of this review have demonstrated that vast majority of finger and metacarpal fractures can be successfully treated conservatively. Conservative treatment is preferably performed with a buddy taping or a splint allowing free mobilization of fingers. Treatment without any immobilization, according to special protocol is also an acceptable and safe option.

Saliva, a seemingly unpretentious secretion, is actually a multifaceted and multipurpose biofluid. Performing numerous functions, far exceeding only lubrication of oral mucosa, it is essential for general health. Saliva’s remarkable properties are primarily due to its constituents, mainly peptides and proteins. Excreted at the entrance to the gastrointestinal tract, this biofluid—active in the oral cavity—also affects other sections of the canal alike, particularly esophagus, where its active components do not undergo degradation. Animal models employing sialoadenectomy consistently with clinical data of patients afflicted with issues related to insufficient salivation, clearly demonstrate how indispensable proper saliva secretion is. In this paper we briefly summarize current perspectives on saliva, with a focus on its protein components and its impact on the upper part of the alimentary tract, particularly on oral and esophageal mucosa. The practical aspects of the modern proteomic research of saliva being at the forefront of salivaomics progress are also discussed, and the current state-of-the-art proteomic methodology is outlined.

Introduction: Childbirth, regardless of its course, is one of the most significant events in a woman’s life. In perinatal care, both medical aspects and the woman’s needs for choice, information, and support are crucial. The fulfillment of these needs influences satisfaction, which is an element of care quality evaluation. The aim of this study was to analyze tools for measuring women’s experiences in perinatal care, considering the subjective nature of satisfaction and factors affecting care quality. Review methods: A literature review was conducted on validated tools and questionnaires used to assess patient-reported outcomes. Systematic searches in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases included keywords such as “satisfaction of care,” “maternal satisfaction,” and “questionnaires” in Polish and English. The analysis was part of research conducted within the doctoral dissertation of one of the authors. Conclusions: Publications highlight the use of diverse measurement tools, ranging from general satisfaction surveys to specialized questionnaires. These tools address aspects such as the quality of communication with medical staff, pain management effectiveness, and respect for patient autonomy. However, most tools have not been adapted or validated for use in Poland. The importance of employing verified measurement tools in evidence-based practices and their role in improving patient-provider relationships was also discussed.

Background: An important task also faces “lifestyle medicine”, in connection with the development of IT services and digital possibilities. Practicing physical activity is an important basis for improving the physical and mental condition of patients. The aim of the work was to determine the usefulness of remote and digital forms to improve physical fitness in currently diverse groups of respondents. Material and Methods: A review of scientific literature was conducted based on popular science databases Medline, PubMed. Only articles from the last 8 years (2017–2025.03) were taken into account. The search criteria were the following phrases: digital health, sport, physiotherapy, activity. 32 studies containing the above phrases in keywords and article content were included in the study. Papers not related to physical activation or physiotherapy through digital or remote form were rejected. Results: Almost all studies indicated the usefulness of digital physical activation and, through it, improving physical fitness in various types of subjects. Two of the studies indicated that digital activation should be additionally personalized for specific groups of subjects and that the integration of e-exercise with the stationary form should be improved or e-coaching should be used. One study did not ultimately confirm the effectiveness of the digital physical activation program due to COVID-19. Conclusions. It is necessary to optimize the recommendations of online exercise programs and expand existing programs for different groups of exercisers. Digital activation of movement: improves physical fitness, eliminates stress, helps to shape movement habits, is a form of relaxation or fun, is a form of encouragement and motivation, allows to monitor changes or progress of health.

Pregnancy of unknown location is still a significant diagnostic and therapeutic problem in the population of women of reproductive age. The management of women with PUL can vary widely, as there are still no standardized guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of such a clinical situation. The diagnostic effort in this initial diagnosis should be directed both to the exclusion of ectopic pregnancy, which carries a significant risk to the patient, as well as a properly implanted pregnancy, since the implementation of treatment may be associated with adverse effects on its subsequent fate. The authors reviewed the literature on this issue, taking into account their own experience in the management of pregnancies of unknown location. They conducted a critical analysis of the literature on PUL found in MEDLINE, Google Scholar, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Clinical Trials.