Assessing quality of life and depression in non-metastatic breast cancer patients following surgical treatment: A cross-sectional study in Lebanon.

Breast cancer is a global health concern that significantly impacts the quality of life (QOL) of individuals. This study aims to comprehensively examine the interplay between QOL and depression among nonmetastatic breast cancer patients in Lebanon, a region with limited research in this context. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hammoud Hospital-University Medical Center from January 2018 to January 2023. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire distributed as Google Forms via WhatsApp. A total of 193 patients had non-metastatic breast cancer. Out of these, 81 valid responses were obtained. The Patient Health Questionnaire and Quality of Life Scale were used to assess depression and QOL, respectively. A total of 81 patients were included with mean age 54.4 years. Results revealed that 77.8% of patients experienced provisional depression, with 35.8% meeting criteria for major depressive disorder. Financial status and chronic diseases were associated with the likelihood of developing major depressive disorder. The mean QOL score was 81.14, lower than the average for healthy individuals. Educational level and presence of chronic diseases were significant factors influencing QOL. Postsurgical depression prevalence is substantial, underscoring the importance of integrating mental health care. Economic status and comorbidities are influential factors, necessitating targeted interventions. Breast cancer's impact on QOL is profound, falling below that of other chronic conditions. Education empowers coping, while comorbidities impact QOL. Our findings emphasize the multidimensional nature of breast cancer care, advocating for holistic support and addressing emotional well-being.

A challenging diagnosis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the middle finger in an infant: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare sarcoma, accounting for less than 0.1 % of tumors. While it predominantly occurs in adults, pediatric cases are unusual. This case report aims to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges posed by DFSP in infants due to its rarity and slow-growing nature, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and prompt intervention. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of an 8-month-old infant presenting with a progressive finger mass, initially mistakenly diagnosed as a dermatofibroma. Local excision was done, but the tumor recurred after one year. Subsequent re-excision and skin grafting were performed, and histopathology confirmed DFSP. Despite middle finger amputation three weeks later, a new mass emerged on the adjacent ring finger after one year. This tested negative for DFSP. The fibrous mass has persisted for five years without significant changes. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: DFSP is a rare sarcoma with a higher prevalence in adults. It typically presents as a painless, slow-growing mass and is usually diagnosed by biopsy and immunohistochemistry. Surgical excision with negative margins is the preferred treatment. The rarity and slow-growing nature of DFSP pose challenges in diagnosis and treatment. CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are crucial in managing DFSP, especially given its high recurrence potential. Maintaining a high index of suspicion is essential even in very young children. Aggressive resection with negative margins and diligent post-operative surveillance are key strategies to mitigate metastasis risk and improve prognosis in such challenging cases.