CYRUS IRANI, MD

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This study looked at hypersensitivity reactions that occur during and after surgeries in a Lebanese clinic over five years. Out of 255 patients, around 49% had previous hypersensitivity issues, and nearly all tested had a positive reaction to at least one substance, with morphine, rocuronium, and latex being the most common triggers. These findings are important because they help doctors identify potential allergic reactions before surgery, allowing them to choose safer alternatives for their patients. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who are at risk of allergic reactions during surgery.

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This research focuses on creating updated guidelines for managing allergic rhinitis, which can impact asthma, known as ARIA 2024-2025. The study used surveys, artificial intelligence, and patient data to prioritize important questions and gather evidence for decision-making. Key findings include the development of a system to help doctors use the best available evidence to make recommendations and create digital tools for better patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma, as well as their doctors.

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This study updated guidelines for treating allergic rhinitis (AR) with intranasal medications, which are important for managing the condition. Researchers looked at various treatments, including different types of nasal sprays, and found that combining an antihistamine with an intranasal corticosteroid is generally better than using either one alone. This is significant because it helps improve the quality of life for those suffering from AR. Who this helps: Patients with allergic rhinitis and their doctors.

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This study focuses on the lingual nerve, which is important for feeling sensations in parts of the mouth and tongue. Researchers reviewed existing studies and found that the nerve has five key branches that serve different areas in the mouth, emphasizing how understanding its anatomy can help prevent damage during dental procedures. Knowing the details about the lingual nerve is crucial for safer dental surgeries and better patient care. Who this helps: This benefits dentists and their patients.

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This review focused on the lingual nerve, which is important for feeling in the mouth and tongue. It discussed how often this nerve gets injured during dental surgeries and how to avoid or treat these injuries. Understanding the nerve's location and proper surgical techniques is crucial because it can prevent complications, improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients undergoing dental procedures.

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This study looked at health care differences in the Middle East, focusing on how social and political factors affect health services in countries like Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, and Iran. Researchers found that all these countries face significant health care disparities linked to issues like income and education, and ongoing conflicts have made these problems worse. Understanding these challenges can lead to better cooperation and new strategies to improve health services, especially for allergy and immunology care. Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors in the Middle East.

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This study looked at 503 patients from the Middle East and North Africa who have genetic immune disorders linked to actin, a protein involved in cell movement. The findings showed that 72.2% of these patients developed respiratory infections, and the survival rate improved significantly for those who received stem cell transplants; however, overall mortality was 23%, mainly due to severe infections like sepsis. This research highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, particularly for high-risk patients, to improve their health outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with actin-related immune disorders and their doctors.

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This study looked at drug allergies in patients visiting an allergy clinic in Lebanon over ten years, from 2012 to 2021. Researchers found that 758 patients had allergic reactions to medications, with the most common culprits being antibiotics (54%) and pain relievers (49%). This information is important because it helps doctors understand which drugs are likely to cause allergic reactions, improving patient care and safety in prescribing medications. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing critical information on drug allergies.

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This research studied the effectiveness and safety of a new drug called ligelizumab for treating chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a condition that causes itchy hives. In two large trials involving over 2,000 patients, ligelizumab significantly reduced symptoms compared to a placebo, with improvements of about 8 to 11 points on a 0-42 scale at 12 weeks, but it did not outperform an existing treatment known as omalizumab. This matters because CSU can be difficult to manage, and finding effective treatments can greatly improve the quality of life for those suffering from it. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria.

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This study focused on improving how allergic reactions are graded in patients receiving allergy treatments, specifically immunotherapy. The researchers propose updates to the existing grading system used to classify serious allergic reactions, aiming for a more consistent approach that can be applied to different types of allergic treatments. This is important because having a unified grading system can help doctors better understand and manage allergic reactions, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care. Who this helps: Patients receiving allergy immunotherapy and their doctors.

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This research paper focuses on developing better healthcare pathways for patients with chronic conditions like asthma and rhinitis, emphasizing the importance of treating patients as experts in their own experiences. The study finds that using digital tools and artificial intelligence can improve care designed around patients' personal needs and preferences. For instance, integrating real-world data and new treatment guidelines aims to enhance the quality of care and coordination in managing these diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients with asthma and rhinitis, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how chronic urticaria, a long-term skin condition that causes hives, affects patients' quality of life and emotional health in a group of 264 people in Lebanon. It found that those with the most severe symptoms had the highest levels of emotional distress and quality of life issues, with significant links between poor control of their urticaria and greater feelings of depression. This matters because it highlights that managing chronic urticaria effectively can help improve not just skin health but also psychological wellbeing. Who this helps: Patients with chronic urticaria and their healthcare providers.

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This research focused on improving the diagnosis and treatment of Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) in the Middle East. Experts from six countries reached a consensus on key recommendations, including the importance of family history in diagnosis and the need for regular monitoring of disease severity. They also suggested using certain medications for long-term prevention when standard treatments are unavailable. Who this helps: This benefits patients with HAE and their doctors by providing tailored guidance for better care in the region.

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This study looked at how obesity affects the types of bacteria in the mouths of people who have healthy gums and also how it changes certain substances in their blood. Researchers found that obese individuals had higher levels of certain bacteria linked to gum disease and different patterns of blood chemicals compared to lean individuals. Specifically, obese people had more of certain bacteria and increased amino acids, while their levels of fats and vitamins were lower, which could raise their risk of developing gum disease. Who this helps: This findings benefit dentists and healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of monitoring gum health in obese patients.

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This study looked at severe asthma patients in Lebanon to find out how many have a specific type called eosinophilic asthma, which is linked to higher levels of certain white blood cells. Out of 101 patients studied, 37% were found to have eosinophilic asthma, and a significant number, about 64%, had uncontrolled asthma despite treatment. This information is important because it helps healthcare providers identify patients who might benefit from specialized treatments targeting this specific asthma type. Who this helps: Patients with severe asthma and their doctors.

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This study looked at how obesity affects inflammation in gum health by comparing blood and gum fluid samples from 39 people—20 who were lean and 19 who were obese. It found that those who were obese had higher levels of a marker for inflammation (C-reactive protein, or CRP) in their gum fluid compared to lean individuals, but there were no significant differences in other inflammation-related proteins. This is important because it shows that obesity could weaken the body's response to inflammation in the gums, potentially impacting dental health. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with obesity and dental health issues.

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This study looked at how rhinitis, or nasal inflammation, is different when it occurs alone versus when it happens alongside asthma. Researchers found that rhinitis and asthma together create a more complicated health issue with different causes and treatments compared to rhinitis by itself. Specifically, they identified varying underlying genetic factors and symptom severity, suggesting that these should be treated as separate conditions. Who this helps: Patients with rhinitis and asthma can receive better-targeted treatments.

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This study looked at food allergies in schoolchildren aged 3 to 17 in Lebanon. Researchers found that 6% of the children reported having food allergies, with cow's milk being the most common allergen. Most of the affected children experienced skin reactions and gastrointestinal symptoms, and 82% sought medical advice, with over half getting a doctor's confirmation of their allergies. Who this helps: This helps parents, doctors, and schools to better understand and manage food allergies in children.

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This study examined the connection between allergies and inborn errors of immunity (IEI) among patients worldwide to see how allergies might delay their diagnosis. It found that about 16.3% of IEI patients reported having allergic conditions, such as asthma or skin allergies, with up to 68.8% experiencing allergies, but only 8% were diagnosed initially based on their allergy symptoms. This is important because recognizing the link between allergies and IEI can lead to faster diagnoses and better care for patients with these immune conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients with inborn errors of immunity and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how digital tools can improve health care for people with allergies and respiratory issues, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic made it harder for patients to access services. It found that both patients and doctors want these tools to meet specific needs, but there isn’t a standard way to measure their quality or effectiveness. The World Allergy Organization is working on defining clear criteria to ensure these digital tools are reliable and beneficial, aiming to enhance patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers in allergy and respiratory care.

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This study explored personalized medicine in treating allergies, focusing on how tailored treatments can better meet individual patients' needs. Researchers found that using specific molecular diagnostics helps identify the exact allergens affecting a person, which can lead to more effective treatments. This is important because better targeting of allergy treatments can significantly improve their success rate and enhance overall patient care. Who this helps: This helps allergy patients by providing more effective and personalized treatment options.

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This study looked at children and families in the Middle East and North Africa who have inherited immune system disorders known as inborn errors of immunity (IEIs). Researchers found 17,120 patients with these conditions, with a significant number (60.5%) having parents who are related by blood, which can increase the risk of genetic issues. They discovered that the diagnosis often takes a long time—41 months on average—and that the highest death rate (51.7%) was found in children with a specific type of immune deficiency, highlighting a critical need for better diagnosis and care in the region. Who this helps: This research helps patients with immune disorders and their families by improving understanding and treatment options.

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This study looked at how following a vegetarian diet affects memory and thinking skills in older adults. While researchers found no significant differences in attention or executive function between vegetarians and non-vegetarians, those with a more stable diet over the years performed better in memory and language tests. Specifically, a stable diet was linked to improved memory/language abilities, suggesting long-term eating habits matter more than just dietary choices. Who this helps: This research benefits older adults and health professionals who work with them.

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This study looked at the bacteria and inflammation in the gums of healthy people who either eat a vegetarian diet or a non-vegetarian diet. Researchers found that while both groups had similar overall gum health, vegetarians showed higher levels of bacteria linked to healthy gums and lower levels of harmful bacteria. This matters because it suggests that a vegetarian diet might help maintain better gum health by changing the types of bacteria in the mouth and reducing inflammation. Who this helps: Patients interested in improving their gum health through diet.

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This study looked at why low-income and minority students in Southern California frequently miss school, impacting their academic success and future opportunities. Researchers found that issues like asthma, obesity, family problems, bullying, and feeling unsafe at school all increased the likelihood of chronic absenteeism. In contrast, having support from family or friends, getting enough sleep, and having a positive attitude helped keep students in school. Who this helps: This benefits students and their families, as well as educators and policymakers seeking to improve attendance rates.

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This study looked at how to handle severe allergic reactions, called anaphylaxis, from COVID-19 vaccines in older adults. It found that though anaphylaxis is very rare—with only 1 to 5 cases per million vaccinations—when it does occur in older individuals, the reactions can be more severe than in younger people. The research highlights the importance of having adrenaline ready for treatment and provides a management guide for healthcare providers to follow. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare professionals caring for older patients receiving COVID-19 vaccines.

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This study looked at how simvastatin, a common cholesterol-lowering medication, affects muscle strength in mice with autoimmune myositis, a condition that causes muscle inflammation. Researchers found that mice treated with 20 mg/kg of simvastatin showed better muscle strength compared to untreated mice and those given different doses. This is important because it suggests that simvastatin could help improve symptoms in patients with inflammatory muscle diseases. Who this helps: Patients with autoimmune myositis.

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This study focused on a condition called deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2), which can cause various health issues, primarily affecting blood and blood vessels. Researchers compared patients with serious blood problems to those with blood vessel inflammation, finding that 10 out of 15 patients with severe blood issues did not respond well to a common medication used for inflammation, while those with more mild symptoms did respond better. Understanding these differences helps doctors tailor treatments more effectively based on the specific genetic mutations present in their patients. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with DADA2 and their doctors by guiding more personalized treatment options.

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This study looked at what healthcare providers in Lebanon think about starting palliative care early for children with cancer. The findings showed that many providers see palliative care mostly as a way to relieve pain and provide support at the end of life, rather than as an ongoing part of care from the beginning. It also emphasized the importance of teamwork among healthcare providers and the need for open communication with families to better support young patients and their loved ones. Who this helps: This benefits children with cancer and their families, as well as the doctors and nurses caring for them.

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This study looked at a patient who had an allergic reaction to a titanium dental implant, which led to the implant failing quickly. The researchers found that replacing the titanium implant with a zirconium implant was successful and without complications. This matters because it offers an alternative option for patients who can't use titanium due to allergies, which affects a small percentage of people. Who this helps: This helps patients with titanium allergies who need dental implants.

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This study focused on validating two questionnaires, the Urticaria Activity Score 7 (UAS7) and the Chronic Urticaria Quality of Life Questionnaire (CU-Q2oL), in Arabic for patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in Lebanon. Researchers found that both questionnaires were reliable, with a high internal consistency score of 0.95 for UAS7 and a score of 0.82 for CU-Q2oL, meaning they consistently measure what they’re supposed to. This is important because having reliable tools in Arabic allows healthcare providers to better assess and improve the quality of life for Arabic-speaking CSU patients. Who this helps: Patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria in Lebanon benefit from these validated tools.

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This study looked at how physical activity and physical function relate to thinking abilities in older adults, particularly those who often have vegetarian diets. Researchers found that better physical function, measured by specific tests, linked to improved processing speed in thinking; for every 4.4 points increase in physical performance, processing speed scores went up by 0.21 standard deviations. This is significant because maintaining good physical function might help older people think better, especially those with healthy lifestyles. Who this helps: This helps elderly patients looking to maintain or enhance their cognitive health.

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This study explored how air pollution worsens inflammatory airway diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Researchers found that air pollution can lead to increased inflammation in the airways and makes patients more vulnerable to infections, highlighting the importance of oxidative stress in these conditions. Understanding these connections helps improve treatment and prevention strategies for affected individuals. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from asthma, COPD, and other airway diseases.

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This study looked at how a person's weight affects their asthma control in adults in Lebanon. Out of 183 asthma patients, nearly half (49.2%) were at a normal weight, while 35.5% were overweight and 15.3% were obese. It found that 71% had poor asthma control, and those who were overweight or obese had worse control than those with normal weight, highlighting the connection between obesity and asthma difficulties. Who this helps: This helps asthma patients and their doctors understand the importance of weight management for better asthma control.

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This study looked at Lebanese patients with allergic conjunctivitis to understand their demographics, symptoms, and which allergens they react to. Researchers found that 56.8% of the patients had elevated specific IgE levels indicating sensitivities to certain allergens, with dust mites being the most common at 72%. The findings are significant because they can help improve diagnosis and treatment plans for patients suffering from allergic conjunctivitis. Who this helps: This helps patients with allergic conjunctivitis and their doctors in identifying and managing their allergies more effectively.

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This study focused on creating an Arabic version of a test to measure how well patients with chronic hives (urticaria) are managing their condition. Out of 178 patients, 79% were found to have poorly controlled symptoms, despite most using antihistamine medications. This research is important because it highlights the need for better management strategies for chronic urticaria among Arabic-speaking patients. Who this helps: Patients with chronic urticaria who speak Arabic.

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This research studied how increasing a specific substance called propionate in the colon affects brain responses to food and eating behavior. The study found that when healthy men produced more propionate, their brain activity related to the reward from high-energy foods decreased, leading to a 30% reduction in the appeal of these foods and a drop in how much they ate at a meal. This is important because it suggests that propionate may help control cravings for unhealthy foods and promote better eating habits. Who this helps: This benefits patients looking to manage their weight and improve their eating choices.

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This study focused on how common food allergies are in Lebanon by surveying people over the phone. They found that about 4.1% of infants and children and 3.2% of adults reported having food allergies, with skin reactions being the main symptom for 86% of those affected. This research is important because it sheds light on the need for better awareness and management of food allergies in Lebanon, which can improve patient care and safety. Who this helps: This helps patients with food allergies and their healthcare providers.

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This research paper focuses on hereditary angioedema, a rare and serious condition caused by a problem with a specific protein that regulates blood flow. The authors reviewed recent guidelines and shared two patient cases, emphasizing the need for better diagnosis and treatment options since effective medications can be expensive and not accessible everywhere. Improving awareness and management of this condition is crucial to enhance patient safety and care. Who this helps: This helps patients with hereditary angioedema and healthcare providers managing their care.

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This study examined how effective high-dose sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is for people with severe allergic rhinitis caused by pollen who hadn't had success with other treatments. Researchers followed 118 patients over three years and found significant improvements in their symptoms: their total rhinitis symptom scores dropped from an average of 31.32 at the start to 13.35 after 36 months. Additionally, the need for allergy and asthma medications also decreased, indicating that SLIT can effectively help manage both allergies and associated asthma symptoms. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe allergic rhinitis and asthma, especially those struggling to control their symptoms with usual medications.

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This study looked at how sensitive patients in Lebanon with allergies and asthma are to various airborne allergens. Out of 2,350 patients tested, 75.6% showed sensitivity to allergens. The researchers found that a specific group of 11 allergens can effectively identify those with allergies 96% of the time, and they recommend adding another allergen group for better results. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from allergies and asthma by improving the accuracy of allergy testing.

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This study looked at whether asking patients for consent to join a clinical trial on the day of their non-heart-related surgery affects their understanding of the study and their anxiety levels compared to asking them beforehand. The researchers found that patients understood the trial just as well on the day of surgery, with a slight drop in comprehension score (0.19 points), and their anxiety increased similarly in both groups. However, significantly fewer patients consented on the surgery day (31%) compared to before (59%), which means more patients agreed when given more time to consider. Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors by ensuring a better informed consent process while highlighting the importance of timing in patient engagement.

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This study examined the link between chronic skin rashes (idiopathic chronic urticaria) and thyroid issues, specifically autoimmune thyroiditis, in 90 patients. The researchers found that 17.7% of these patients had elevated thyroid antibodies, which is significantly higher than the 8.7% rate seen in the general population. This finding is important because it suggests that doctors should consider checking for thyroid problems in patients with chronic urticaria, which could lead to better treatment strategies. Who this helps: Doctors treating patients with chronic urticaria.

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This study looked at food allergies in Lebanon by testing patients for specific allergic reactions to different foods. Out of 1,842 patients tested, 386 (about 21%) had positive reactions to food allergens, with cow's milk being the main allergen for infants and young children, while adults were mostly allergic to hazelnuts and wheat. Notably, peanut allergies were found to be mild, but sesame allergies often caused severe reactions, which is becoming a growing concern. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with food allergies, particularly those at risk for severe reactions.