Background and Objectives: Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have been proposed as potential biomarkers in atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF), but their role in patients with AF and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains uncertain. Methods: We measured serum levels of 4 candidate miRNAs (miR-21, miR-146a, miR-146b, and miR-328) using quantitative polymerase chain reaction in 45 patients with persistent AF and HFpEF and five non-AF arrhythmia controls (Healthy). Expression levels were normalized to miR-16 and expressed as fold change (2−ΔCt ). Baseline (V1) and 3–6 months follow-up (V2) samples were analyzed, and comparisons were performed using non-parametric tests. Results: At baseline, none of the 4 miRNAs differed significantly between AF patients and Healthy controls; miR-21, 1.24 ± 0.55 vs. 1.15 ± 0.32 (P = 0.57); miR-146a, 0.66 ± 0.35 vs. 0.65 ± 0.06 (P = 0.71); miR-146b, 0.12 ± 0.07 vs. 0.11 ± 0.01 (P = 0.90); and miR-328, 0.08 ± 0.05 vs. 0.07 ± 0.03 (P = 0.95), all P > 0.5. Baseline comparisons were analyzed using relative expression values (2−ΔCt , normalized to miR-16), while longitudinal changes between V1 and V2 were assessed using fold change (2−ΔΔCt ). No significant longitudinal changes were observed across treatment groups. Conclusions In patients with persistent AF and HFpEF/HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction, circulating miR-21, miR-146a, miR-146b, and miR-328 showed no significant differences compared with the non-AF arrhythmia control group and did not change after 6 months of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system-targeted therapy. These pilot data suggest that the short-term utility of biomarkers is limited and warrants validation in larger, randomized cohorts.

Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) results in the loss of oxyntic glands, achlorhydria, and hypergastrinemia and frequently leads to the development of gastric hyperplastic polyps (GHPs). AIG is increasingly being recognized as a major contributor to corpus-dominant atrophy in East Asia. Despite its increasing prevalence, it is frequently underdiagnosed in clinical practice. Although GHPs are typically benign, AIG is associated with an elevated risk of gastric cancer, including neuroendocrine tumors. Herein, we report two cases in which GHPs detected during screening endoscopy led to AIG identification. Both of the patients were negative for Helicobacter pylori and tested positive for antiparietal cell antibodies. Histological examination confirmed oxyntic atrophy and hyperplastic polyps, without any evidence of dysplasia. These case reports have highlighted that GHPs may develop in the context of H. pylori-associated gastritis as well as from autoimmune causes, thus emphasizing the importance of recognizing and assessing AIG during endoscopic screening. The possibility of coexisting AIG should be considered in individuals with GHPs. Accordingly, clinicians are advised to evaluate AIG when GHPs are detected in a background of corpus-dominant atrophy, as delayed recognition may miss the opportunity to identify a precancerous risk.

Objectives: In alignment with the World Health Organization’s goal of eliminating hepatitis C, this study assessed the current treatment status and reasons for non-treatment among patients with hepatitis C in Jeonbuk State, Republic of Korea, to inform strategies for improving care engagement. Methods: Among 311 individuals diagnosed with hepatitis C and reported through the NationalNotifiable Infectious Disease Surveillance system between January 2023 and June 2024, 208 patients were surveyed after excluding those who had died or could not be contacted.Statistical analyses included the chi-square test, the Cochran-Armitage test for trend, and logistic regression. Results: Overall, 116 participants (55.8%) reported having received antiviral therapy. Among the 92 untreated individuals, the most common reason for non-treatment was the absence of symptoms (n = 23; 25.0%), followed by the burden of drug costs (n = 21; 22.8%). Conclusion These findings highlight suboptimal treatment uptake and key barriers that may hinder progress toward hepatitis C elimination. Expanding screening and strengthening linkage-to-care strategies, while addressing financial barriers, will be essential to achievingnational elimination targets.

Background/Aims: This study is the first to analyze telemedicine pilot project experiences from doctors, pharmacists, and patients with different roles to support sustainable commercialization. Methods: An online survey targeted individuals (patients, doctors, and pharmacists) who participated in the telemedicine pilot project at least once between June 1, 2023, and July 17, 2024. The survey assessed satisfaction and usage conditions. The online survey conducted between May 2024 and July 2024 included 1,500 patients, 300 doctors, and 100 pharmacists. Results: Doctors, pharmacists, and patients all expressed their intention to participate actively in telemedicine in the future; however, pharmacists showed lower participation rates than doctors (84.7% vs. 67.0% vs. 91.7%, p < 0.001). The most common reason among doctors was “increasing demands from patients” (44.3%), while for pharmacists, it was “easy management of patients with chronic diseases” (67.0%). This showed a statistically significant difference between groups (p < 0.001). Among patients, 65.0% cited “lack of time and convenience.” Notably, both doctors and patients agreed that telemedicine requires more time than current practices, although their perceptions differed significantly (all p < 0.001). Additionally, 24.0% of patients who used telemedicine for "hair loss/beauty" purposes reported treatment times of “≤ 3 minutes” shorter than for other purposes. Regarding telemedicine platforms, 75.0% of doctors and 84.0% of pharmacists reported no prior experience using them. Conclusions Appropriate telemedicine systems require collaboration among doctors, pharmacists, and patients. While most groups expressed positive attitudes and future intentions, significant gaps in experience and understanding must be addressed to ensure successful implementation.

Rectal cancer, which accounts for approximately 40% of colorectal cancers, remains a major clinical concern. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, surgical techniques, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment have steadily improved rectal cancer outcomes. Considering this, the Korean Rectal Cancer Multidisciplinary (KRCM) Committee has aimed to provide clinicians and policymakers with up-to-date, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to support optimal decision-making, reflecting current evidence, the Korean healthcare context, and patient values and preferences. The Clinical Practice Guidelines for Rectal Cancer version 2.0 were developed through multidisciplinary collaboration with related academic societies, building upon and updating the KRCM Clinical Practice Guidelines version 1.0 (titled “Multidisciplinary guidelines for the management of rectal cancer”). These consensus guidelines of the KRCM were established based on a comprehensive literature review, evidence synthesis, with recommendation development guided by the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methodology, and consideration of applicability in real-world clinical practice under the national health insurance system. Each recommendation has been presented with its strength and level of evidence.

Background: Laser procedures are integral to dermatologic practice, yet safety measures- particularly regarding ocular protection and plume control- are poorly studied in real-world settings. Objective: To evaluate current practices in eye protection, infection control, and occupational risk awareness among Korean dermatologists performing laser treatments. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among board-certified dermatologists at the 2024 Korean Society for Dermatologic Laser Surgery meeting. The questionnaire covered demographics, laser frequency, use of goggles and masks, infection control strategies, ophthalmologic monitoring, and history of warts or cancer. Results: Seventy-nine respondents completed the survey. All reported using protective goggles, but only 26.6% and 22.8% did so for CO 2 and erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet lasers, respectively. Only 24.1% underwent regular eye exams, and 13.9% reported eye conditions after starting laser practice. While 89.9% used masks, 40.8% used dental masks, which are inadequate for plume protection. Suction devices were used by 94.9%, though performance specifications were unclear. Warts were reported by 46.8% of respondents; two reported cancer diagnoses after initiating laser work. Conclusion Despite high overall adherence to basic safety practices, critical gaps remain. Our findings highlight the need for standardized guidelines and long-term occupational health monitoring to ensure safe laser practice.

Background: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by erythema, papules, ocular symptoms, and heightened sensitivity. Patients with neurogenic symptoms such as burning or stinging remain particularly difficult to manage. Current guidelines often underrepresent energy-based devices (EBDs), pigmentary sequelae, psychosocial burden, and ocular comorbidities. Objective: To examine Korean dermatologists’ expert perspectives on rosacea management, focusing on skin sensitivity, neurogenic symptoms, pigmentary changes, psychosocial impact, ocular involvement, and EBD use. Methods: A web-based, 29-item survey was administered to 25 board-certified Korean dermatologists (May–June 2025). Quantitative and qualitative responses were analyzed. Results: Erythematotelangiectatic and papulopustular phenotypes with sensitivity skin predominated. EBDs (pulsed dye laser, intense pulsed light) were frequently used but limited by cost and sensitivity issues. Neurogenic symptoms were recognized but rarely treated with neuromodulators. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was infrequent, yet monitoring was inconsistent.Psychosocial and ocular aspects were acknowledged but seldomly systematically addressed.Respondents expressed interest in emerging adjunctive treatments such as cold plasma, skin boosters, and holistic care approaches. Conclusion Korean dermatologists adopt individualized strategies for rosacea, yet practice gaps remain regarding neurogenic symptoms, pigmentary complications, and psychosocial and ocular comorbidities. Findings support the need for updated multidisciplinary, phenotype-driven guidelines aligned with real-world practice.

Osteoid osteoma accounts for approximately 10% of all benign bone tumors, but only approximately 4% of cases occur in the foot and ankle area. Periarticular osteoid osteoma frequently manifests with nonspecific clinical symptoms that mimic other conditions, potentially leading clinicians down a diagnostic side path and resulting in delayed or missed diagnoses compared to extra-articular osteoid osteoma. Although plain radiographs may show nonspecific findings, magnetic resonance imaging can detect bone marrow edema and surrounding soft tissue changes. Computed tomography is the most accurate modality for diagnosis. This paper reports the case of a 26-year-old female diagnosed with periarticular osteoid osteoma of the calcaneus and was treated with arthroscopic localized curettage at the author’s institution.

Objective: This study aims to compare the incidence of active tuberculosis (TB) among Korean patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) initiating treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) or tofacitinib. Methods: Using the Korean National Health Insurance database, we conducted a nationwide, retrospective cohort study of RA patients who started TNFi or tofacitinib therapy between 2015 and 2018. We calculated the incidence rates of active TB based on the treatment type and results from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening tests. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was employed to evaluate the risk of active TB in RA patients beginning TNFi or tofacitinib treatment. Results: Among 3,382 RA patients (596 on tofacitinib and 2,786 on TNFi), LTBI screening was predominantly conducted using the IGRA (interferon-gamma release assays) test. Of these patients, 624 (18.5%) with a positive LTBI test received prophylactic treatment. No cases of active TB occurred in tofacitinib users, while 32 cases were observed in TNFi users. The adjusted hazard ratio for active TB in LTBI-positive patients was 5.47 (95% confidence interval 2.74 to 10.92) compared to LTBI-negative patients.In subgroup analyses, TB incidence was significantly higher among individuals aged over 65 years. Conclusion Despite LTBI treatment, active TB remains prevalent among RA patients on TNFi therapy and in those with positive LTBI tests.

Bowel preparation is a key determinant of colonoscopy quality; however, inadequate cleansing remains common among patients with overlapping clinical and logistical barriers. In routine practice, preparation failure may prolong procedures, reduce diagnostic confidence, and necessitate early repeat colonoscopy. We review major society guidelines and selected studies addressing bowel preparation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), older adults, chronic constipation, and hospitalized patients. Across these settings, the most consistently supported measures include split-dose administration, completion of the final dose close to the time of colonoscopy in accordance with local fasting and sedation policies, and structured patient instructions reinforced through follow-up communication. A standardized assessment of preparation quality is recommended to support quality improvement and appropriate follow-up. Risk stratification can help identify patients who may benefit from intensified preparation pathways, including those with prior inadequate preparation, severe constipation, frailty, or inpatient status. Safety considerations are particularly important in CKD, in which oral sodium phosphate should be avoided and magnesium-containing agents used cautiously; polyethylene glycol-based solutions are generally preferred. In IBD, regimen selection should also consider endoscopic interpretability because sodium phosphate preparations have been associated with preparation-related mucosal abnormalities that may confound the assessment of subtle inflammatory findings. Among hospitalized patients, system-level barriers often predominate, and protocolized pathways may improve workflow and patient comfort while maintaining cleansing effectiveness. We propose a practical, risk-stratified approach to regimen selection, timing, rescue strategies, and safety monitoring that can be implemented in high-volume clinical practice.