Author: Jason Curtis

Safety of pembrolizumab in advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

Ahad A.; Kumar S.; Kolomar H.; Wang J.; Mylavarapu M.; *Yateem D.; Sadeghzadegan A.; Abdallah A.; Chowdhury D.; Alnajar F.; Hassan M.J.; Kharel P.; Ali M.;

Citation:

Journal of Clinical Oncology. Conference: 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting I. Chicago, IL United States. 43(16 Supplement) (no pagination), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2025.

Abstract:

Background: Pembrolizumab, a checkpoint inhibitor, has demonstrated safety and efficacy in various cancers, primarily melanomas and non-small cell lung cancers. However, its safety profile in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) remains inadequately studied. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate adverse events (AEs) associated with pembrolizumab in patients with advanced HNSCC. Method(s): A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and clinicaltrials.gov. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating pembrolizumab monotherapy in patients with advanced HNSCC were included. Primary outcomes included overall AEs, grade 3-5 AEs, immune-related AEs, and treatment discontinuation due to AEs. Random effects models were used for analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 (RevMan). A p-value <= 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result(s): A total of 1,900 patients (mean age: 59.86 +/- 9.1 years; females: 16.73%) with advanced HNSCC were included from three RCTs. Patients receiving pembrolizumab monotherapy had higher odds of experiencing overall AEs (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.04-3.83, p = 0.04), grade 3-5 AEs (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.68-1.86, p = 0.63), immune-related AEs (OR 1.49, 95% CI 0.44-5.08, p = 0.53), and lower odds of treatment discontinuation due to AEs (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.34-1.75, p = 0.53) compared to the control group. However, only overall AEs were statistically significant. Conclusion(s): Pembrolizumab is associated with a higher risk of AEs in patients with advanced HNSCC compared to the control group. Interestingly, the likelihood of treatment discontinuation due to AEs was lower in the pembrolizumab group; however, this difference was not statistically significant. Further research, including larger RCTs with longer follow-up periods, is necessary to evaluate the safety profile of pembrolizumab in patients comprehensively. Additionally, studies should focus on identifying specific patient subgroups at greater risk for AEs and exploring strategies to mitigate these risks.

Developing a Triage Rag Tool to Standardise the Triage of Referrals Received by the Palliative Care Team in the Hospital Setting (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Shellis K.; *Corbett E.; *West D.;

Citation:

BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care. Conference: Palliative Care Congress. Belfast Ireland. 15(Supplement 2) (pp A56), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Mar 2025.

Abstract:

Background During 2022 we realised that we needed to standardise our approach to managing the referrals received to the specialist palliative care team in the acute hospital trust. This was something that had been highlighted in our previous CQC inspection and we understood the importance of assessing patients according to their acuity in a timely manner. Prior to the development of this tool there was no standardised way of triaging patients and often there would be variation in the responsiveness of the service. Aim of the triage RAG The purpose of this tool was to ensure we offered an equitable service to our patients across both of our hospital sites ensuring that those with the highest acuity had an urgent response time of 4 hours (red), those with moderate symptoms/concerns were seen in within 24 hours and those with low acuity were seen within 48 hours. Method The palliative care team worked together through our team meetings to review current literature and best practice. We devised the tool based on most common symptom presentations and most prevalent reasons for referral. We initially trialled this alongside our electronic referral form but we found that we also need a series of question prompts and therefore, this was added to our tool. The tool was trialled for an initial period of six months and following this the final version was presented at out Palliative and End of Life Steering group and subsequently adopted by the whole team. Results We are now able to monitor and report our triage times via our dashboard, we have a standardised way of prioriting our caseload and ensuring the right patients get the correct response from the acute specialist palliative care team, therefore improving patient outcomes.

DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2025-PCC.144

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The 3,550 g Challenge: An Atypical Presentation of a 3.5 kg Seminoma Manifesting as Dry Skin (2025)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

Omorphos, Nicolas; Mohsin, Mohamed Shamil; *Mok, Spencer; Kitchen, Mark; Ho, Kuo J.

Citation:

Cureus. 17(7):e87174, 2025 Jul.

Abstract:

A 43-year-old male presented to the emergency department with a seven-year history of progressive left-sided scrotal swelling. On examination, a large mass was palpable in the left hemiscrotum, accompanied by eczema-like skin changes and a decubitus ulcer. Tumor markers were significantly elevated, particularly lactate dehydrogenase, and an urgent ultrasound confirmed the presence of a testicular tumor. CT revealed a scrotal mass originating from the left testis, along with bilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy. The patient underwent a left inguinal orchidectomy, and histopathological analysis confirmed a 3,550 g classical seminoma. He was subsequently referred to oncology for adjuvant chemotherapy.

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.87174

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Barriers to the safe discussion of the experience and management of menopausal symptoms: A systematic literature review (2025)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

Thavabalan, Karish; *Ovenell, Alistair; Pierce, Poppy; Sutaria, Aman; Parkhouse, Annabelle; Baydemir, Numan; Lally, Theodore.

Citation:

Maturitas. 201:108683, 2025 Aug 05.

Abstract:

As the number of women experiencing menopause continues to rise each year, the need for open and supportive discussions around the experience and management of menopausal symptoms becomes more imperative. Although research has identified numerous challenges women face during this life stage, many studies examine these barriers in isolated settings. Furthermore, how these challenges impact women's ability to safely discuss menopause remains poorly understood. This systematic literature review
sought to identify and synthesise the barriers that hinder safe discussions about the experience and management of menopausal symptoms. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 21 qualitative studies were included. Six themes were identified regarding symptom experience: lack of support from friends and family, lack of workplace support, fear of menopause onset, variation in symptom experience, poor-quality information, and societal judgement. Two themes were identified regarding symptom management: perceived onus to endure symptoms and poor experiences with healthcare professionals. Notably, the themes revealed widespread shortcomings that collectively hinder safe discussions about menopause. Future work should prioritise intersectional approaches that tackle barriers across home, social, work, and healthcare settings. Proactive measures, such as placing a greater emphasis on menopause in medical education and developing culturally relevant resources, are crucial for fostering safe, informed discussions and improving care for all women.

DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2025.108683

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Colorectal Cancer Mortality Rates in UK Shropshire County (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Shah J.; *Shittu S.; *Goh Y.L.; *Ball W.;

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: 49th ASiT Annual Surgical Conference. Belfast United Kingdom. 112(Supplement 10) (pp x64), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2025.

Abstract:

Aim: Evaluate outcomes of patients dying within 12 months from diagnosis of colorectal cancer in Shropshire County. Method(s): Single-centre retrospective review of patients who died within 12 months of diagnosis between 2020-2024.Each patient's hospital records were reviewed, and data were collected on patient demographics, performance status, time from referral to imaging, diagnosis, MDT, death and treatment intent. Result(s): A total of 103(44 male: 59 female) patients,with a mean age at referral of 74 (range 32 – 96) years old. Most patients had a performance status of 1 and lived in their own home (92%). 60% of patients lived in Shrewsbury, 34% in Telford and 9% in Wolverhampton. Referral sources were mainly from GP (55%), emergency admission to SAU (20%) and AMU (16%).74% of GP referrals were seen within two weeks. All patients underwent CT imaging. Endoscopic procedures were performed in 57% of patients. The average age of death is 75 (range 34 – 97) years old, most commonly from distant metastatic sigmoid cancer. The average time between diagnosis and death was 4.4 months.Treatment intent was palliative in 90% (BSC in 44% and oncology in 56%).59% who were referred to oncology received palliative treatment. Eight patients were treated with curative intent but died due to sepsis and multiorgan failure(2), died prior to commencing treatment (1), complications from treatment (3) or declined treatment (2). Conclusion(s): This snapshot audit demonstrates that patients in Shropshire County newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer were elderly, aged over 70 years old with significant cardiovascular co-morbidities and performance status of at least 1.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf128.248

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Evaluating the Referral Pathway for Colonoscopy in a District General Hospital (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Lakshmipathy G.R.; *Zaman H.; *Ball W.; *Smith M.

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: 49th ASiT Annual Surgical Conference. Belfast United Kingdom. 112(Supplement 10) (pp x109-x110), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2025.

Abstract:

Objectives: We aim to evaluate: Method, urgency and appropriateness of colonoscopy referrals. Colonoscopies repeated within two years. Reasoning behind procedure modification or cancellation on the day Method: Data was collected between 5/1/24 and 28/2/24 using questionnaires completed by endoscopists. 112 colonoscopies in 51% (57) males and 49% (55) females were included. Result(s): The most common to least common referral sources are: Colorectal CNS telephone clinic 29(26%), consultant surgeon face-to-face Clinic 28(25%), triage system 14(12.5%), consultant surgeon telephone clinic 13(11.6%), others 13(11.6%), gastroenterology consultant face-to-face clinic 11(9.8%) and gastroenterologist telephone clinic 1(0.8%). Majority of referrals were two-week wait or urgent 97 (86.5%). Endoscopists were 18-week team 70(62.5%) followed by trust-employed consultant surgeons 26(23%). Four patients had repeat colonoscopies in last two years. 9(8%) scopes were modified or cancelled. Conclusion(s): Except for one scope, repeat scopes within two years had valid indications. Majority of the modified or cancelled scopes originated from telephone consultation referrals. Reasons for cancellation on the day included lack of fitness for scopy, ineffective bowel preparation, patient factor like uncontrolled atrial fibrillation on the day and no indication for colonoscopy. Modifications included switching from requests for flexible sigmoidoscopy to colonoscopy; colonoscopy to CTVC and vice versa. In light of this study, we aim to provide face-to-face appointments for patients referred through the urgent suspected cancer pathway. We plan to expand this study to evaluate the popularity of CTVC use as an alternative modality when colonoscopy is not possible.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf128.znaf128.438

Complications After Hydrocele Repair: Solving a Persistent Challenge (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Lu Y.; *Abdellatif M.; *Desai C.; *Ali-Naja N.; *Han L.A.; *Kells L.; *Kachrilas S.;

Citation:

British Journal of Surgery. Conference: 49th ASiT Annual Surgical Conference. Belfast United Kingdom. 112(Supplement 10) (pp x179-x180), 2025. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2025.

Abstract:

Aim: Surgical intervention remains the gold-standard treatment for large or symptomatic hydroceles. Although hydrocele repair is a relatively minor procedure, complications such as haematoma and infection can have significant consequences. This study aims to evaluate the rates and severity of complications and explore strategies to minimise them following hydrocele repair Method: Aretrospective analysis was conducted of all hydrocele surgery performed in January 2021 to December 2022. Complication outcomes were classified using Clavien-Dindo grading. Result(s): A total of 85 hydrocele operations were included in the study, with an average patient age of 54.5. Post-operative complications occurred in 22 (25.88%) patients, including infection, haematoma and recurrence. Amount these, 7 complications (8.24%) were classified as Clavien-Dindo grade II, and 13 (15.29%) as grade III. No grade IV or V were recorded. Of the 22 patients with complications, 11 (12.94%) of them experienced recurrent hydroceles. Conclusion(s): Complications following hydrocele repair are relatively common, warranting further investigation. Comprehensive pre-operative counselling is essential to set realistic expectations and address potential risks with patients. Our centre implemented prophylactic antibiotics in high-risk group and the use of intra-operative betadine wash as potential solutions.

DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znaf128.718

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Survey of the current experience of colonoscopy training for colorectal surgical trainees in the UK (2025)

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Type of publication:

Journal article

Author(s):

Siggens K.; Williams S.; Yiu A.; El Sayed C.; Fletcher J.; Mills S.; Yeadon K.; Reza L.; Rabie M.; Drami I.; Green S.; Tamanna R.; Couderq D.; Javanmard-Emamghissi H.; Argyriou O.; Okocha M.; Khasawneh F.; Kat-Zsummercorn A.; Shakir T.; Anya L.; Bramwell C.; Haji A.; Johnston R.; Joshi H.; Oliphant R.; Piramanayagam B.

Citation:

Frontline Gastroenterology. (no pagination), 2025. Date of Publication: 2025.[epub ahead of print]

Abstract:

Introduction: The primary aim was to understand the current experience of colonoscopy training among general surgical trainees with a subspeciality interest in colorectal surgery. Method(s): An electronic survey was developed and disseminated by members of the Dukes' Club (colorectal trainees network) and Association of Coloproctologists of Great Britain and Ireland colonoscopy subcommittee between February and April 2024 to assess key themes identified through formal and informal feedback from colorectal trainees of endoscopy training experience. Result(s): The survey was completed by 196 participants. This included 13.3% from core trainee (CT) 2-speciality trainee (ST) 4, 28.6% from ST5-ST6, 36.5% from ST7-ST8, 13.3% from post-certificate for completion of training fellows, senior clinical fellows and speciality and specialist (SAS) doctors and 8.7% from early years consultants. The median number of colonoscopies performed by respondents was 121.6 (range 0-8000). Only 33.7% (66/196) reported having one dedicated training list per week, and 56.6% (111/196) were not allocated to any regular training list. The barriers to training were service provision (71.9%), lack of dedicated training lists (69.9%) and access to training lists due to other trainees or healthcare professionals (42.3%). Only 25% of respondents had experience of immersion training, but they consistently reported high numbers of colonoscopy during these periods, with 40% achieving more than 30 colonoscopies. Conclusion(s): There is an urgent need to improve access to colonoscopy training. Regular endoscopy training lists and funding of academies and immersion training centrally are likely to greatly improve the experience of colonoscopy training. Senior colorectal trainees should be prioritised to avoid delay in the completion of training.

DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2025-103106

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Standardising the administration of joint injections across the Wolverhampton NHS Trust: a service improvement project in rheumatology through the lens of medical education (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Jayasekera H.; Agunbiade T.; Chalam S.V.

Citation:

Future Healthcare Journal. Conference: Medicine 2025: The future of medicine. RCP annual conference. 11 St Andrews Pl, London United Kingdom. 12(2 Supplement) (no pagination), 2025. Article Number: 100432. Date of Publication: 01 Jun 2025.

Abstract:

Introduction: The Rheumatology Resident Doctors' Forum identified a pressing need to standardise steroid injection training due to varying experience and confidence levels among resident doctors. Many expressed a strong interest in learning injection techniques but faced barriers in accessing training and achieving formal competency. Addressing this gap had the potential to enhance service delivery, support professional development and reduce patient wait times. General practice trainees also highlighted the value of joint injection skills in primary care, helping to alleviate pressure on rheumatology services. The Dreyfus model of skill acquisition describes five levels of competency in skill development, ranging from 'novice' to 'competent' and eventually 'expert'.1 The model shows how individuals progress from rule-based, analytical thinking to experience-driven mastery of a skill.1 A recent study demonstrates that structured training can enhance competency in procedural skills, such as joint injections.2 Methods: A SMART aim was used to design learning outcomes. Fourteen applicants were selected at random. Pre-course surveys collected quantitative and qualitative data on performance challenges, confidence, and baseline knowledge. Process mapping (Fig 1) and radar diagrams (Fig 2) highlighted gaps for intervention. Four trained rheumatology doctors, supervised by a consultant, led a teaching program. Virtual meetings guided plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles and driver diagrams to ensure constructive alignment. The goal was to advance learners from the Dreyfus level of 'Novice 1' to 'Competent 1'. The course, conducted in the clinical suite, used training mannikins of knees and shoulder joints, providing real-time feedback. Teaching combined interactive lectures, small-group sessions and individualised feedback. Formative assessments maximised educational impact. Post-course data were compared to baseline, with quality improvement (QI) sustainability tools used to draw portal diagrams, highlight improvement gains and discuss long-term impacts of the project. Results and discussion: Initially, 50% of participants were novices, with none having ever injected a shoulder joint. Confidence in consenting patients increased from 14% to 100% post-course. 64% of participants were unfamiliar with medications used for injections, while 28.6% were unsure of the evidence base. Post-course, both categories improved to 100%. Additionally, 43% initially lacked confidence in clinical decision-making regarding safe joint injection. There was a 100% increase in overall confidence surrounding decision-making (43% 'strongly confident' and 57% 'confident'). All doctors passed the criterion-referenced standard assessment, acquiring formal recognition of skills in their portfolios. The course was oversubscribed and received excellent feedback. QI tools, including radar diagrams, process mapping, and PDSA cycles, had a crucial role in refining training and driving measurable improvements. The structured application of QI methodology successfully upskilled doctors, advancing them from 'Novice' to 'Competent'. Simulation-based learning, combined with real-time feedback, proved to be a highly effective strategy for accelerating skill development while enhancing clinical decision-making and confidence. By integrating this training into departmental inductions, the initiative ensured sustainability and continuous professional development, benefiting both individual practitioners and the wider healthcare service. Conclusion(s): The project led to significant improvements in confidence and competency. It demonstrated sustainability through reproducibility and was incorporated into the rheumatology departmental induction. Positive feedback highlights the course's broader applicability in QI-driven medical training.

DOI: 10.1016/j.fhj.2025.100432

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Normal creatinine-kinase levels in post-COVID myositis: insights into localised muscle involvement (2025)

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Type of publication:

Conference abstract

Author(s):

*Jayasekera H.S.; *Elshehawy M.; *Olarewaju J.; Askari A.

Citation:

Clinical Medicine, Journal of the Royal College of Physicians of London. Conference: Medicine 2025: The future of medicine. RCP annual conference. 11 St Andrews Pl, London United Kingdom. 25(4 Supplement) (no pagination), 2025. Article Number: 100437. Date of Publication: 01 Jul 2025.

Abstract:

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2; coronavirus 2019; COVID-19) has been increasingly implicated in post-infectious inflammatory complications, including varied presentations of inflammatory myopathies.1,2 Most literature highlights severe, systemic muscle involvement requiring immunosuppression, whereas localised myositis with normal creatine kinase (CK) levels remains underrecognised.3 This case presents a rare instance of localised paraspinal and proximal thigh myositis post-COVID-19, where CK levels remained normal, despite significant muscle involvement. Method(s): A 41-year-old previously healthy man presented with severe diffuse back and leg pain, muscle cramps, and low-grade fever for 2 weeks after confirmed COVID-19 infection. Examination revealed proximal thigh weakness (MRC Grade 3/5) and tenderness without neurological deficits. Investigations, including blood tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), autoimmune screening, echocardiography, blood cultures and electromyography (EMG) studies. were conducted.1 Management required evaluating the progression of symptoms in the light of test results to identify the aetiology of disease, considering differential diagnosis and early establishment of localised vs systemic inflammatory myopathy.2 The patient was diagnosed as post-viral myositis with a normal CK. Empirical intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam was discontinued after infection was excluded. Simple analgesia and vitamin D sufficed for symptom control. The patient showed resolution of fever, significant improvement in muscle pain and normalisation of inflammatory markers, preventing the need for immunosuppression. Results and Discussion: Laboratory findings showed elevated C-reactive protein (237 mg/L), white cell count (12.0 x 109/L), and neutrophilia (9.4 x 109/L). Alkaline phosphatase (192 U/L) and gamma glutamyl transferase (202 U/L) were mildly elevated, while CK levels were normal (22 U/L, peaking at 56 U/L). MRI revealed diffuse oedema in posterior paraspinal muscles without abscess or infection, and CT imaging confirmed intermuscular oedema in paraspinal and proximal thigh muscles without systemic involvement. Autoimmune screening (antinuclear antibodies, weakly positive; extractable nuclear antigen antibodies and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, negative) and echocardiogram were unremarkable. Blood cultures showed no growth and EMG displayed a myopathic pattern in the right shoulder. This case provides insight into an atypical presentation of post-COVID 19 myositis, where the CK level remains normal despite muscle weakness.3 It evaluates the diagnostic and management challenges in this scenario. Other differentials include amyopathic dermatomyositis (ADM). However, differentiating localised post-viral myositis from ADM is essential, because ADM presents with cutaneous manifestations, which are absent in this case. A detailed history of recent viral illness and advanced imaging (eg, MRI) are critical for identifying myositis and excluding systemic or infectious causes.1Conclusion(s): This case highlights that post-viral localised myositis can present with significant muscle involvement despite normal CK levels, necessitating MRI for diagnosis.1,3 Early rheumatology input can optimise management by differentiating self-limiting inflammatory myopathies from those requiring immunosuppression.

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinme.2025.100437

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