Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a potentially reversible neurological condition prevalent in the elderly, characterized by gait disturbance, cognitive decline, and urinary incontinence. Distinguishing iNPH from neurodegenerative mimics such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease is critical to prevent missed treatment opportunities. This narrative review synthesizes current literature on the clinical presentation and diagnostic strategies for iNPH. Gait disturbance, often described as a magnetic gait, is typically the earliest sign and shows the most significant improvement following shunt surgery. Cognitive impairment manifests as frontal-subcortical dysfunction, distinct from the cortical memory deficits of Alzheimer’s disease. Diagnosis relies on integrating clinical history with specific magnetic resonance imaging findings, including disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid space hydrocephalus (DESH) and high-convexity tightness. While the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tap test is a valuable predictor for shunt responsiveness, clinicians must be wary of false-negative results. In addition, dopamine transporter imaging and amyloid imaging could be helpful to rule out other neurological disorders. Accurate diagnosis of iNPH requires a multidisciplinary approach combining clinical assessment, neuroimaging, and CSF dynamic evaluation. Timely identification and exclusion of comorbidities allow for effective surgical intervention, significantly reversing symptoms and improving the long-term quality of life for affected older adults.

Objectives: This study investigated a cluster of secondary human-to-human transmission of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) in a hospital setting, focusing on infection risk factors and the role of personal protective equipment (PPE). Methods: A descriptive epidemiological investigation was conducted following the death of anindex patient with laboratory-confirmed SFTS. A total of 27 close contacts, including healthcareworkers and a funeral director, were monitored for symptoms. Suspected cases underwent real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction testing. Clinical features, PPE use, and exposure histories were analyzed. The Fisher exact test was used to assess associations between PPE use and infection. Viral genotyping and sequence analyses were performed to evaluate transmission routes. Results: The index patient deteriorated rapidly and died after repeated cardiopulmonaryresuscitation (CPR), during which 8 secondary cases occurred. Most infections were identifiedamong individuals involved in CPR or postmortem care without adequate PPE. Although notstatistically significant, infection rates were higher among those who did not wear masks or who used low-filtration masks. Proper use of gloves, gowns, and goggles was associated withlower infection rates. Cycle threshold values in secondary cases (range, 34–39) were higherthan in the index case (14.07), suggesting lower viral loads. Sequence analysis demonstrated99.6%–100% homology between the index and secondary cases; all isolates were genotype B, indicating direct transmission. Conclusion This study provides molecular and epidemiological evidence of nosocomial SFTS transmission. Inadequate PPE use during aerosol-generating procedures likely facilitated infection, underscoring the importance of strict adherence to PPE protocols and reinforced infection control practices.

Background: Pathogenic Escherichia coli (PEC) is a leading cause of acute diarrhea worldwide. With increasing antibiotic use, antimicrobial resistance in PEC has become a significant public health concern. In this study, we investigated the distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of PEC isolated from patients with acute diarrhea in the Busan and Gyeongnam regions of South Korea. Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional laboratory-based study, 272 PCR-positive residual stool or rectal swab specimens collected between October 2023 and June 2024 were screened; after exclusion of 80 specimens without recoverable or confirmable isolates, 192 pathogenic E. coli isolates were included for pathotype identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Pathotypes were identified using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction, and antimicrobial susceptibility was tested against 18 agents using the VITEK II system. Results: Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) was the most prevalent pathotype (44.8%), followed by enteropathogenic E. coli (34.9%). High resistance rates were observed for ampicillin (77.1%), cefazolin (55.2%), and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (44.3%). EAEC demonstrated the highest multidrug resistance (MDR) rate (34.9%). Pediatric patients (< 18 years) exhibited significantly higher resistance rates and MDR frequencies compared with adults, particularly against β-lactam antibiotics. Conclusion EAEC was identified as the predominant and most resistant pathotype in this region. The elevated resistance levels in children and the prevalence of MDR EAEC underscore the need for continuous local surveillance and appropriate antibiotic stewardship.

Since 2020, updates in the diagnostic criteria for various neuromuscular diseases have emerged by advancements in electrophysiological studies, biomarker research, and imaging modalities. These developments reflect an effort to improve diagnostic accuracy and allow for earlier intervention. This review summarizes the most recent revisions in the diagnostic criteria for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, primary lateral sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, and myasthenia gravis.

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: Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTAP) generates reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and ultraviolet radiation, which can inactivate microorganisms.Onychomycosis treatment is challenging, and its prognosis is poor owing to mixed infections and dermatophytosis. Although NTAP has shown in vitro antifungal effects against dermatophytes and yeast, its efficacy against non-dermatophyte molds (NDMs) and in clinical or nail model studies remains poorly understood. Objective: We evaluated the effects of NTAP on fungi, including NDMs, and infected nail plates. Methods: For the in vitro experiments, Trichophyton rubrum, Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Fusarium oxysporum strains were exposed to NTAP. After NTAP exposure (2,4 and 6 minutes), growth curve, cell viability, and biofilm biomass were assessed by absorbance wavelength of 600 nm, XTT assay, and crystal violet staining, respectively. For the ex vivo experiments, infected nail plates were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope. Results: T. rubrum and C. albicans showed greater growth inhibition with increasing NTAP exposure time, whereas A. fumigatus showed enhanced growth after 6 minutes exposure. Many fungal elements within the subungual hyperkeratosis of the ex vivo specimen were all damaged following NTAP exposure. Conclusion NTAP has antifungal effects on dermatophytes, yeast, and NDMs. We suggest that the intensity and time of NTAP application should be adjusted according to each strain and can be more effective when NTAP directly reaches the hyphae on the nail bed or subungual hyperkeratosis.

Background: Given the dual potential of statins to act as both carcinogenic and antineoplastic agents, evidence from previous investigations into statin use and the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) remains inconclusive. Objective: To demonstrate the impact of statin exposure on the NMSC risk in Korean patients. Methods: We carried out a multicenter cohort study based on electronic health record data aggregated from 11 Korean hospitals. Patients with hyperlipidemia who had been taking antilipidemic agents, including statins were included in this study. We applied 1:1 propensity score matching to create balanced cohorts and used Cox regression to assess the hazard ratio (HR) for NMSC. Results: A total of 18,579 statin users and a matched number of non-users were included across 11 databases. Statin use showed no significant association with an increased risk of NMSC (HR, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.75–1.43). Subgroup analyses of drug exposure, age, and sex depicted no significant HR trends. Conclusion Statin exposure demonstrated no significant association with NMSC development in Korean patients with hyperlipidemia.

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.

Background: s/Aims: Phase angle (PhA), as measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, provides insights into hydration and nutritional status, making it a prognostic indicator of frailty. While low preoperative PhA has been linked to postoperative complications in cancer patients, its predictive value in individuals undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has not been thoroughly investigated.This study aims to evaluate the clinical utility of preoperative PhA in predicting postoperative complications for patients undergoing PD. Methods: Among 41 patients who underwent PD at Seoul National University Hospital between September and December 2024, 35 were included in the analysis after excluding 6 patients who had concomitant blood vessel or other organ resections. Patients were divided into low (Comprehensive Complication Index [CCI] ≤ 20) and high (CCI > 20) complication groups based on the CCI, derived from the Clavien–Dindo classification. The differences in PhA between the two groups were analyzed, and logistic regression was performed to assess the relationship between PhA and CCI. Results: The mean PhA was significantly lower in the high-CCI group compared to the low-CCI group (5.7° vs. 6.7°, p = 0.025). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that PhA (odds ratio: 0.17; 95% confidence interval: 0.04–0.68; p = 0.012) was an independent predictor of high CCI. A low preoperative PhA was associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications following PD. Conclusions Preoperative PhA may serve as a valuable predictive indicator of postoperative complications after PD, enabling the identification of patients who could benefit from preoperative prehabilitation, including nutritional support.