Choi HS, et al.

Hereditary hemolytic anemia, rare in Korea due to ethnic factors, is rising due to international marriages and increased awareness. Diagnosis, especially of red blood cell enzymopathy, has improved with advanced techniques. Korean guidelines, initiated in 2007 and regularly updated, prioritize next-generation sequencing. Recent molecular genetic testing breakthroughs, notably next-generation sequencing, enhance diagnosis and care plans. This review highlights Korean advancements in molecular genetic testing for hereditary hemolytic anemia, emphasizing the importance of these methods in patient management.

Yoon SJ, et al.

This study investigated the impact of comprehensive primary care on patients with multiple chronic diseases. Data from 2002–2019 were analyzed, focusing on individuals aged ≥ 30 with hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Doctors’ offices were categorized based on patient composition. Patients visiting functional offices had lower risks of all-cause and cardiovascular-related hospital admissions compared to those visiting specialized offices. However, admission risks for specific chronic diseases were similar across office types. The findings highlight the effectiveness of primary care, particularly in functional offices, for managing complex chronic conditions.

Lee J, et al.

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) significantly impact healthcare, leading to morbidity and mortality. This study assessed CAUTI characteristics and prevention program efficacy across hospitals. Intervention programs, including training and surveillance, were implemented. Data from 2017 to 2019 showed no difference in microorganisms between university and smaller hospitals. Initially, CAUTI rates decreased after interventions but later increased. The study highlights the importance of active interventions, such as consistent monitoring and guideline adherence, in reducing CAUTIs. It emphasizes the need for ongoing support and personnel to sustain the reduction in CAUTI rates across hospitals of varying sizes.

Shin HY, et al.

During the omicron variant surge, myasthenia gravis (MG) patients faced severe COVID-19 risks due to respiratory weakness. This study compared outcomes between vaccinated and unvaccinated MG patients contracting COVID-19. Among 92 cases, 9.8% required hospitalization, with significantly fewer vaccinated patients needing intensive care or ventilation. Unvaccinated patients showed higher hospitalization rates and MG deterioration risk. Logistic regression supported vaccination's protective role. The study underscores vaccination's potential in mitigating COVID-19 severity and MG exacerbation.

Chung YS, et al.

This study analyzed monkeypox virus genomes from the Far East to understand transmission and evolution. Eight isolates from patients in South Korea (May 2022 - early 2023) belonged to Clade IIb. Various lineages (B.1.1, A.2.1, B.1.3) were identified in 2022 and 2023, with only B.1.3 in 2023. The dominance of B.1.3 in early 2023, detected in patients with no travel history, suggests local transmission initiation in South Korea.