1.Prevalence and factors influencing postpartum depression and its culture-specific cutoffs for women in Asia: a scoping review
Bora MOON ; Hyun Kyoung KIM ; Ju-Hee NHO ; Hyunkyung CHOI ; ChaeWeon CHUNG ; Sook Jung KANG ; Ju Hee KIM ; Ju-Young LEE ; Sihyun PARK ; Gisoo SHIN ; Ju-Eun SONG ; Min Hee LEE ; Sue KIM
The Ewha Medical Journal 2025;48(1):e15-
The prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) in Asia is reported to range from 13.53% to 22.31%. However, there remains a gap in the identification of PPD, particularly regarding cultural cutoff points. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of PPD in Eastern, South-eastern, Western, and Southern Asian countries and analyze the cutoff points of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) used across these countries. Following Arksey and O'Malley’s five-step scoping review framework, the population was defined as mothers, the concept as the EPDS, and the context as the Asian region. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. The data analysis focused on demographic characteristics, EPDS cutoffs and features, PPD prevalence, and its associated factors. Nineteen studies were selected. Most countries used translated versions of the EPDS with demonstrated reliability and validity. The cutoff scores varied, with most using scores of 10 or higher. The prevalence of PPD ranged from 5.1% to 78.7%. Key associated factors for PPD included cultural factors such as relationships with in-laws and preferences for the newborn’s sex. To improve the accuracy of PPD screening in Asia, the EPDS should be used consistently, and appropriate cutoff criteria must be established. In addition, prevention strategies and programs that reflect the cultural characteristics and social context of Asia need to be developed for the early detection and prevention of PPD.
2.Primary Cholangiocarcinoma of the Liver Presenting as a Complicated Hepatic Cyst: A Diagnostic Challenge
Chang Won HA ; Sang Deok SHIN ; Myung Ji GOH ; Byeong Geun SONG ; Wonseok KANG ; Dong Hyun SINN ; Geum-Youn GWAK ; Yong-Han PAIK ; Moon Seok CHOI ; Joon Hyeok LEE
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology 2025;85(1):83-88
Primary cholangiocarcinoma is a rare bile duct epithelial neoplasm that can present with atypical clinical manifestations, complicating its diagnosis. A 62-year-old male showed symptoms suggestive of a complicated hepatic cyst that was later identified as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The patient presented with abdominal discomfort without fever. Imaging revealed a large cystic lesion in the liver. Despite the initial treatment for a presumed abscess, a biopsy confirmed cholangiocarcinoma. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of distinguishing between benign complicated hepatic cysts and malignancies, particularly when typical markers of infection are absent. Early biopsy and vigilant assessments are crucial in such presentations to avoid a delayed diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.
3.Miliary Tuberculosis Initially Presenting as an Isolated Hepatic Abscess
Chang Won HA ; Sang Deok SHIN ; Myung Ji GOH ; Byeong Geun SONG ; Wonseok KANG ; Dong Hyun SINN ; Geum-Youn GWAK ; Yong-Han PAIK ; Moon Seok CHOI ; Joon Hyeok LEE
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology 2025;85(1):78-82
Hepatic tuberculosis, typically associated with miliary tuberculosis, can occasionally present as localized liver lesions. This case report describes a 77-year-old male presenting with persistent abdominal pain and fever, following an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for bile duct sludge removal. Subsequent computed tomography revealed focal liver lesions. Despite initial treatment with antibiotics for a suspected inflammatory liver abscess, his condition did not improve. A liver biopsy was performed, revealing caseous granulomas, and the tuberculosis polymerase chain reaction result was positive. The patient was diagnosed with primary hepatic tuberculosis, which later disseminated. Oral anti-tuberculosis therapy was initiated and is currently being closely monitored. This case emphasizes the importance of considering hepatic tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of liver lesions, particularly in cases involving cholestatic liver function tests, and persistent symptoms unresponsive to conventional antibiotics.
4.Cannabidiol Alleviates Chronic Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome via CB2 Receptor Activation and TRPV1 Desensitization
Jun Jie PIAO ; Soomin KIM ; Dongho SHIN ; Hwa Jong LEE ; Kyung-Hwa JEON ; Wen Jie TIAN ; Kyung Jae HUR ; Jong Soo KANG ; Hyun-Je PARK ; Joo Young CHA ; Aeri SONG ; Sang-Hyuck PARK ; Mahadevan RAJASEKARAN ; Woong Jin BAE ; Sungjoo KIM YOON ; Sae Woong KIM
The World Journal of Men's Health 2025;43(1):228-238
Purpose:
This study elucidates the mechanism of the physiological effect of cannabidiol (CBD) by assessing its impact on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RWPE-1 cells and prostatitis-induced by 17β-estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in a rat model, focusing on its therapeutic potential for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).
Materials and Methods:
RWPE-1 cells were stratified in vitro into three groups: (1) controls, (2) cells with LPS-induced inflammation, and (3) cells with LPS-induced inflammation and treated with CBD. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and western blots were performed on cellular components and supernatants after administration of CBD. Five groups of six Sprague–Dawley male rats were assigned: (1) control, (2) CP/CPPS, (3) CP/CPPS and treated with 50 mg/kg CBD, (4) CP/CPPS and treated with 100 mg/kg CBD, and (5) CP/CPPS and treated with 150 mg/kg CBD. Prostatitis was induced through administration of 17β-estradiol and dihydrotestosterone. After four weeks of CBD treatment, a pain index was evaluated, and prostate tissue was collected for subsequent histologic examination and western blot analysis.
Results:
CBD demonstrated efficacy in vivo for CP/CPPS and in vitro for inflammation. It inhibited the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)uclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway by activating the CB2 receptor, reducing expression of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) (p<0.01). CBD exhibited analgesic effects by activating and desensitizing the TRPV1 receptor.
Conclusions
CBD inhibits the TLR4/NF-κB pathway by activating the CB2 receptor, desensitizes the TRPV1 receptor, and decreases the release of COX2. This results in relief of inflammation and pain in patients with CP/CPPS, indicating CBD as a potential treatment for CP/CPPS.
5.Effects of hepatic fibrosis on the quantification of hepatic steatosis using the controlled attenuation parameter in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Hee Jun PARK ; Hyo Jeong KANG ; So Yeon KIM ; Seonghun YOON ; Seunghee BAEK ; In Hye SONG ; Hyeon Ji JANG ; Jong Keon JANG
Ultrasonography 2025;44(1):83-91
Purpose:
This study assessed the impact of hepatic fibrosis on the diagnostic performance of the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) in quantifying hepatic steatosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).
Methods:
CHB patients who underwent liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and CAP assessment using transient elastography before liver resection between 2019 and 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. Clinical data included body mass index (BMI) and laboratory parameters. The histologically determined hepatic fat fraction (HFF) and fibrosis stages were reviewed by pathologists blinded to clinical and radiologic data. The Pearson correlation coefficient between CAP and HFF was calculated. The diagnostic performance of CAP for significant hepatic steatosis (HFF ≥10%) was assessed using areas under the receiver operating curve (AUCs), stratified by fibrosis stages (F0-1 vs. F2-4). Factors significantly associated with CAP were determined by univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses.
Results:
Among 399 CHB patients (median age 59 years; 306 men), 16.3% showed significant steatosis. HFF ranged from 0% to 60%. Of these patients, 9.8%, 19.8%, 29.3%, and 41.1% had fibrosis stages F0-1, F2, F3, and F4, respectively. CAP positively correlated with HFF (r=0.445, P<0.001). The AUC of CAP for diagnosing significant steatosis was 0.786 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.726 to 0.845) overall, and significantly lower in F2-4 (0.772; 95% CI, 0.708 to 0.836) than in F0-1 (0.924; 95% CI, 0.835 to 1.000) (P=0.006). Multivariable analysis showed that BMI (P<0.001) and HFF (P<0.001) significantly affected CAP, whereas LSM and fibrosis stages did not.
Conclusion
CAP evaluations of significant hepatic steatosis are less reliable in CHB patients with significant or more advanced (F2-4) than with no or mild (F0-1) fibrosis.
6.Conventional versus Instillation Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy for Severe Soft Tissue Injury in Open Pelvic Fractures: A Retrospective Review
Donghwan CHOI ; Won Tae CHO ; Hyung Keun SONG ; Junsik KWON ; Byung Hee KANG ; Hohyung JUNG ; Min Ji KIM ; Kyoungwon JUNG
Yonsei Medical Journal 2025;66(2):94-102
Purpose:
We investigated the clinical features, current negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) management strategies, and outcomes of pelvic-perineal soft tissue infection after open pelvic fractures.
Materials and Methods:
We analyzed the data of patients admitted to our trauma center with pelvic-perineal soft tissue after open pelvic fractures over a 7-year period. We investigated the injury severity score (ISS), medical costs, number of NPWTs, time required to reach definite wound coverage, complications, fracture classifications, transfusion requirements, interventions, length of stay (LOS) in hospital and intensive care unit (ICU), and prognosis.
Results:
Twenty patients with open pelvic fractures were treated with NPWT, and one patient who underwent NPWT died of pelvic sepsis during ICU treatment. The median LOS in hospital and medical costs were 98 [56–164] days and 106400 [65600–171100] USD, respectively. Patients treated with instillation NPWT (iNPWT, n=10) had a shorter NPWT duration (24 [13–39] vs. 46 [42–91] days, p=0.023), time to definite wound coverage (30 [21–43] vs. 49 [42–93] days, p=0.026), and hospital LOS (56 [43–72] vs. 158 [101–192] days, p=0.001), as well as lower medical costs (67800 [42500–102500] vs. 144200 [110400–236000] USD, p=0.009) compared to those treated with conventional NPWT.
Conclusion
NPWT is a feasible method for treating pelvic soft tissue infections in patients with open pelvic fractures. iNPWT can reduce the duration of NPWT, hospital LOS, and medical costs.
7.Prevalence and factors influencing postpartum depression and its culture-specific cutoffs for women in Asia: a scoping review
Bora MOON ; Hyun Kyoung KIM ; Ju-Hee NHO ; Hyunkyung CHOI ; ChaeWeon CHUNG ; Sook Jung KANG ; Ju Hee KIM ; Ju-Young LEE ; Sihyun PARK ; Gisoo SHIN ; Ju-Eun SONG ; Min Hee LEE ; Sue KIM
The Ewha Medical Journal 2025;48(1):e15-
The prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) in Asia is reported to range from 13.53% to 22.31%. However, there remains a gap in the identification of PPD, particularly regarding cultural cutoff points. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of PPD in Eastern, South-eastern, Western, and Southern Asian countries and analyze the cutoff points of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) used across these countries. Following Arksey and O'Malley’s five-step scoping review framework, the population was defined as mothers, the concept as the EPDS, and the context as the Asian region. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. The data analysis focused on demographic characteristics, EPDS cutoffs and features, PPD prevalence, and its associated factors. Nineteen studies were selected. Most countries used translated versions of the EPDS with demonstrated reliability and validity. The cutoff scores varied, with most using scores of 10 or higher. The prevalence of PPD ranged from 5.1% to 78.7%. Key associated factors for PPD included cultural factors such as relationships with in-laws and preferences for the newborn’s sex. To improve the accuracy of PPD screening in Asia, the EPDS should be used consistently, and appropriate cutoff criteria must be established. In addition, prevention strategies and programs that reflect the cultural characteristics and social context of Asia need to be developed for the early detection and prevention of PPD.
8.Primary Cholangiocarcinoma of the Liver Presenting as a Complicated Hepatic Cyst: A Diagnostic Challenge
Chang Won HA ; Sang Deok SHIN ; Myung Ji GOH ; Byeong Geun SONG ; Wonseok KANG ; Dong Hyun SINN ; Geum-Youn GWAK ; Yong-Han PAIK ; Moon Seok CHOI ; Joon Hyeok LEE
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology 2025;85(1):83-88
Primary cholangiocarcinoma is a rare bile duct epithelial neoplasm that can present with atypical clinical manifestations, complicating its diagnosis. A 62-year-old male showed symptoms suggestive of a complicated hepatic cyst that was later identified as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The patient presented with abdominal discomfort without fever. Imaging revealed a large cystic lesion in the liver. Despite the initial treatment for a presumed abscess, a biopsy confirmed cholangiocarcinoma. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of distinguishing between benign complicated hepatic cysts and malignancies, particularly when typical markers of infection are absent. Early biopsy and vigilant assessments are crucial in such presentations to avoid a delayed diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.
9.Miliary Tuberculosis Initially Presenting as an Isolated Hepatic Abscess
Chang Won HA ; Sang Deok SHIN ; Myung Ji GOH ; Byeong Geun SONG ; Wonseok KANG ; Dong Hyun SINN ; Geum-Youn GWAK ; Yong-Han PAIK ; Moon Seok CHOI ; Joon Hyeok LEE
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology 2025;85(1):78-82
Hepatic tuberculosis, typically associated with miliary tuberculosis, can occasionally present as localized liver lesions. This case report describes a 77-year-old male presenting with persistent abdominal pain and fever, following an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for bile duct sludge removal. Subsequent computed tomography revealed focal liver lesions. Despite initial treatment with antibiotics for a suspected inflammatory liver abscess, his condition did not improve. A liver biopsy was performed, revealing caseous granulomas, and the tuberculosis polymerase chain reaction result was positive. The patient was diagnosed with primary hepatic tuberculosis, which later disseminated. Oral anti-tuberculosis therapy was initiated and is currently being closely monitored. This case emphasizes the importance of considering hepatic tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of liver lesions, particularly in cases involving cholestatic liver function tests, and persistent symptoms unresponsive to conventional antibiotics.
10.Cannabidiol Alleviates Chronic Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome via CB2 Receptor Activation and TRPV1 Desensitization
Jun Jie PIAO ; Soomin KIM ; Dongho SHIN ; Hwa Jong LEE ; Kyung-Hwa JEON ; Wen Jie TIAN ; Kyung Jae HUR ; Jong Soo KANG ; Hyun-Je PARK ; Joo Young CHA ; Aeri SONG ; Sang-Hyuck PARK ; Mahadevan RAJASEKARAN ; Woong Jin BAE ; Sungjoo KIM YOON ; Sae Woong KIM
The World Journal of Men's Health 2025;43(1):228-238
Purpose:
This study elucidates the mechanism of the physiological effect of cannabidiol (CBD) by assessing its impact on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RWPE-1 cells and prostatitis-induced by 17β-estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in a rat model, focusing on its therapeutic potential for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).
Materials and Methods:
RWPE-1 cells were stratified in vitro into three groups: (1) controls, (2) cells with LPS-induced inflammation, and (3) cells with LPS-induced inflammation and treated with CBD. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and western blots were performed on cellular components and supernatants after administration of CBD. Five groups of six Sprague–Dawley male rats were assigned: (1) control, (2) CP/CPPS, (3) CP/CPPS and treated with 50 mg/kg CBD, (4) CP/CPPS and treated with 100 mg/kg CBD, and (5) CP/CPPS and treated with 150 mg/kg CBD. Prostatitis was induced through administration of 17β-estradiol and dihydrotestosterone. After four weeks of CBD treatment, a pain index was evaluated, and prostate tissue was collected for subsequent histologic examination and western blot analysis.
Results:
CBD demonstrated efficacy in vivo for CP/CPPS and in vitro for inflammation. It inhibited the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)uclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway by activating the CB2 receptor, reducing expression of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) (p<0.01). CBD exhibited analgesic effects by activating and desensitizing the TRPV1 receptor.
Conclusions
CBD inhibits the TLR4/NF-κB pathway by activating the CB2 receptor, desensitizes the TRPV1 receptor, and decreases the release of COX2. This results in relief of inflammation and pain in patients with CP/CPPS, indicating CBD as a potential treatment for CP/CPPS.

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