Herpes Zoster Vaccine Linked to 50 Percent Drop in Shingles Among Inflammatory Arthritis Patients: Study

USA: In a large real-world study, researchers have found that the Shingrix vaccine significantly reduces the incidence of shingles in individuals with inflammatory arthritis and may play a role in lowering the risk of certain cardiovascular events following a herpes zoster infection. The study, published in Arthritis Research & Therapy by Dr. Jeffrey R. Curtis and colleagues from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in AL, USA, examined outcomes in over 130,000 adults with inflammatory arthritis.

The low vaccine uptake among eligible patients is a matter of concern, say the researchers. Despite clear recommendations from the American College of Rheumatology endorsing shingles vaccination for adults with rheumatic diseases on immunosuppressants, only a fraction of the study population was vaccinated. This gap suggests the need for better awareness and more proactive vaccination strategies in clinical practice.

Drawing from a national healthcare claims database, the study analyzed data from 132,672 patients diagnosed with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondyloarthritis. These patients were all aged 18 years or older and receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Of the total cohort, only 21.6% had received at least one dose of the Shingrix vaccine, and among them, just 73.2% completed the recommended two-dose series.

The following were the key findings of the study:

  • Individuals who received the Shingrix vaccine had a significantly lower risk of developing herpes zoster (shingles).
  • The incidence rate of herpes zoster was 7.41 cases per 1,000 person-years among vaccinated individuals.
  • In contrast, the incidence rate was 14.76 cases per 1,000 person-years in unvaccinated individuals.
  • The vaccine demonstrated an estimated effectiveness of 50% in reducing herpes zoster cases in this high-risk group.
  • The findings support the effectiveness of Shingrix even in immunocompromised patients with inflammatory arthritis.
  • Among patients who developed shingles, the risk of venous thromboembolic events (VTE) increased during the 60–90 days after infection.
  • No significant rise was observed in the incidence of myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, or major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) following shingles infection.

These findings highlight the broader health risks associated with herpes zoster, particularly in immunocompromised populations, and highlight the added benefit of vaccination. According to the authors, preventing shingles through vaccination might indirectly reduce the chance of post-zoster complications like VTE, especially in those already vulnerable due to their underlying inflammatory conditions.

“The study provides compelling evidence that the Shingrix vaccine not only cuts shingles risk in patients with inflammatory arthritis but may also reduce subsequent cardiovascular complications. Increasing vaccine coverage in this population could be a crucial step toward improving long-term health outcomes,” the authors concluded.

Reference:

Curtis, J.R., Conrad, D.M., Krueger, W.S. et al. Real-world data on the use of the Shingrix vaccine among patients with inflammatory arthritis and risk of cardiovascular events following herpes zoster. Arthritis Res Ther 27, 108 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13075-025-03565-0

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Dupilumab Shows Promise as Novel Treatment for Necrobiosis Lipoidica: Case Report

USA: A recent case report published in The Open Dermatology Journal has brought attention to the successful use of dupilumab—a biologic commonly prescribed for atopic dermatitis—as a novel therapeutic option for necrobiosis lipoidica (NL), a challenging and chronic skin condition with limited treatment options.

NL typically presents as red-brown plaques, most commonly on the lower legs, and has long posed a therapeutic challenge due to its unclear etiology and resistance to conventional treatments. While it is often associated with diabetes mellitus, NL can occur independently of it, as highlighted in the current report.

The case involved a 71-year-old woman who sought medical attention for painful, red plaques on her legs. A skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of NL. Initial management with topical agents, including tacrolimus and betamethasone dipropionate, failed to improve significantly. Given her age and potential side effects, systemic steroids were avoided.

As her condition persisted, clinicians opted to explore dupilumab as an alternative approach. Known for targeting interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 pathways, dupilumab has shown benefit in other inflammatory skin disorders. In this instance, a 600 mg subcutaneous dose was administered, followed by 300 mg every two weeks.

Remarkably, within just two weeks of initiating dupilumab therapy, the patient demonstrated notable improvement. The inflammatory plaques began to resolve, evolving into post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and the symptoms of burning and irritation significantly subsided. With continued therapy over four months, the patient maintained disease control with no reported adverse effects.

As the skin lesions improved, the patient gradually discontinued the use of topical agents, resorting to them only for minor flare-ups around the ankles. The substantial reduction in inflammation and overall symptom relief highlighted dupilumab’s potential in altering the course of NL, even in cases unresponsive to traditional therapy.

The case not only reinforces the safety profile of dupilumab but also underscores its therapeutic versatility. The authors noted that the rapid clinical response points toward a possible role of IL-4 and IL-13 in the underlying pathogenesis of NL—cytokines directly targeted by dupilumab. Whether one or both pathways are responsible remains to be clarified in future studies.

By presenting this case, Jennifer Sato, University of Hawaii John A. Burn School of Medicine, University of Hawaii Medical Student, Honolulu, United States, and colleagues aim to encourage further exploration of dupilumab in managing necrobiosis lipoidica. Given its positive impact on this patient and its favorable safety record, dupilumab could represent a viable treatment avenue for other patients suffering from recalcitrant NL.

“While broader clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings, our report adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the expanding role of biologics in dermatology beyond their initially approved indications,” the authors concluded.

Reference:

DOI: 10.2174/0118743722350879241209044938

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JIPMER to Hold 14th Convocation in July 2025

Puducherry- The Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) is going to conduct the 14th Convocation (Medical) for PhD, DM/M.Ch., PDF/PDCC, MD/MS/MDS and MBBS Courses soon.

On this, JIPMER has issued a convocation notification, detailing the tentative Convocation date. As per the notification, the convocation is tentatively likely to be held between 10th to 20th July, 2025. However, the exact date and timing of the Convocation will be published shortly on the JIPMER official website.

Meanwhile, candidates should remit Convocation fees of Rs. 1500/- and fill the convocation application online through the Google form link, which is mentioned in the notification, along with the scanned copy of the fee receipts on or before 25 June 2025. However, the last date to fill out the convocation Google form is 25 June 2025 itself.

Also Read: Ayurveda-Allopathy Fusion plan at JIPMER sparks Controversy, Doctors urge Govt to reconsider

BELOW ARE THE DETAILS-

1 MBBS – Batch of students who completed internship by 30th September 2024.

2 MD/MS/MDS- Completed degree requirements during December 2023 & July 2024 examination sessions.

3 DMTM.Ch- Completed degree requirement during December 2023 & June 2024 examination sessions.

4 PDF/PDCC- Completed degree requirement during the June 2024 examination session

5 PhD- Completed the degree requirement by January 2025.

Moreover, the details of the Dress Code (Traditional Indian Attire) for the convocation ceremony will also be intimated shortly. Graduation stoles will be provided on the convocation day.

It is hereby informed that the 14th Convocation (Medical) for Ph.D, DM/M.Ch.,
PDF/PDCC, MD/MS/MDS and MBBS Courses of JIPMER for the year 2025 is to be held in
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam JIPMER Auditorium, JIPMER Campus, Puducherry – 605006.
The tentative Convocation date is likely to be between 10th tb 20th Jrily, 2025.
The exact date and timing of the Convocation will be published shortly in the JIPMER website, the notice said.

To view the notice, click the link below

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/jipmer-to-hold-14th-medical-convocation-in-july-2025-details-290777.pdf

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AIIMS to Conduct UG, PG Professional Exams in July 2025, Check out schedule for payment, admit card

New Delhi- The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, is going to conduct the professional examinations of Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) in July 2025. Regarding this, the examination section of AIIMS has issued a notice informing about the schedule of payment of the examination fee and issuance of the admit card.

According to the notice, the online registration and Submission of the Examination Fee window will be open from 19 June 2025 till 28 June 2025. Meanwhile, only those eligible candidates who have paid their Examination Fees will be able to download their Admit Card w.e.f. 19 June 2025 itself.

Also Read: AIIMS Releases Post Doctoral Professional Exams Schedule, details

The notice also said that the candidates who are going to appear in the professional examinations for undergraduate and postgraduate are advised to visit the official website of AIIMS to fill out the examination form and pay the examination fee. However, the examination fee should be paid through Debit/Credit Card/Net Banking only. The fees to be paid will be populated automatically depending upon the course.

STEPS FOR DOWNLOADING THE ADMIT CARD

STEP 1- Visit the official website of AIIMS New Delhi.

STEP 2- Go to the “STUDENT TAB” for the desired course.

STEP 3- Click on the Admit Card link.

STEP 4- Enter Enrolment Number.

STEP 5- Enter Date of Birth.

STEP 6- Download the admit card.

The AIIMS New Delhi is going to conduct the professional examinations for the following UG and PG courses-

1 B.Sc. (Hons) Nursing Phase – IV.

2 First MBBS.

3 M. Biotechnology.

4 MSc. Courses.

5 M.Sc. Nursing Phase – I & II

Meanwhile, Medical Dialogues has earlier reported regarding the schedule of Post Doctoral (DM and MCh) Professional Examinations. The exams are scheduled to be held in May 2025. 

To view the notice, click the link below

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/aiims-to-conduct-ug-pg-professional-exams-in-july-2025-check-details-290745.pdf

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Gujarat to Soon Get 9 New Brownfield Medical Colleges Under PPP Model

Gujarat- Senior officials of the Gujarat health department have recently confirmed that nine brownfield medical colleges will soon become a reality under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The nine brownfield medical colleges that are expected to come up in Veraval in Gir Somnath, Botad, Jam Khambhalia in Devbhoomi Dwarka, Nadiad in Kheda, Ahwa in Dang, Lunawada in Mahisagar, Chhota Udepur, Anand and Modasa in Aravalli.

Also Read: Zero Stipend for Medicos in 60 Medical Colleges, Rs 5K or Less in 50 others: NMC data

According to a TOI media news report, sources said that the final approval of the state government is awaited to take forward the existing brownfield policy, which was in place till March this year. Apart from this, the health department has identified eligible hospitals and potential partners.

The new brownfield medical colleges in the state were announced by state health minister Rushikesh Patel in October 2024. Brownfield projects involve remodelling and upgrading existing facilities, while greenfield projects involve fresh construction and development. The state policy aims to provide quality treatment to the local population and medical education to the youth of the state.

Besides this, the state health minister earlier listed out several conditions based on which brownfield medical colleges will be allowed. The hospitals will have to provide free treatment to pregnant women for 20 days after delivery and children up to one year, set up a NICU and a 10-bed unit for dialysis service and provide free treatment for all conditions except heart, brain, cancer and organ transplant.

Currently, brownfield medical colleges operate in Dahod, Bharuch, Amreli, Banaskantha and Tapi districts. Apart from this, Gujarat has a total of 23 government medical colleges (including colleges run by Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society (GMERS)), 18 private and one deemed university medical college. These colleges have a total of 7,400 MBBS seats. However, the brownfield medical college policy was first implemented in 2017 and was later revised in 2022.

Meanwhile, Director (Medical Education) Dr R N Dixit said hospitals and partners have been identified for new brownfield medical college projects and the process of collaboration would be expedited once the revised policy comes into effect.

Also Read: Andhra Pradesh Govt Revamps Medical College Leadership

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MAMC Delhi Jobs 2025: Check SR Post Walk In Interview Details Here….

New Delhi: The Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), has announced vacancies for the Senior Resident post on an ad hoc basis of this Institution.

Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) is a medical college in New Delhi, India affiliated with the University of Delhi and run by the Delhi government. It is named after an Indian freedom fighter and the first education minister of independent India Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. It was established in 1959 at Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg near Delhi Gate. Four hospitals attached to MAMC have a combined bed strength of 2800 beds and cater to millions in Delhi alone and many more from the surrounding states in north India.

MAMC Vacancy Details:

Total no. of vacancies – 05

The vacancies are in the Departments of Physiology.

The date of Walk-In-Interview is the 20th June 2025 at 11.00 AM.

Venue:- Conference Room (Room No. – 223, 2nd Floor, of Department of Physiology, Maulana Azad Medical College, bahadur Shah Zafar Marg New Delhi-110002.

Timing of verification of documents/ certificates: 9.30am to 11.00 am

For more details about Qualifications, Age, Pay Allowance, and much more, click on the given link
https://medicaljob.in/jobs.php?post_type=&job_tags=MAMC&location=&job_sector=all

Instructions for Eligible Candidates (how to apply):-

Suitable and desirous candidates fulfilling educational qualification/eligibility conditions should appear for a walk-in interview with their application along with original certificates and one set of attested photocopies of relevant documents including certificate in support of age qualification, marksheets of all professional exams, MBBS and PG degree, DMC registration certificate, caste certificate & experience etc. and two passport size photographs. No TA/DA will be paid to the candidates for attending the interview. In case of any legal dispute, the jurisdiction of court will be Delhi/New Delhi.

The Dean, MAMC reserves the right of any amendment, cancellation and changes of this advertisement in whole or in part, without assigning any reason.

Also Read:200 JR Post Vacancies 2025: Walk In Interview At AIIMS Kalyani, Hurry To Check Details

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BJ Medical College Ahmedabad Cancels MBBS Exams After Plane Crash Tragedy

Ahmedabad: In the wake of the devastating Air India Flight AI-171 crash near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, which struck its hostel housing medical students, BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad (BJMC) has cancelled the MBBS exams until further notice.

As per the IANS report, the medical college announced the cancellation of all ongoing and upcoming internal examinations for MBBS students.

The college has further called off the summer vacation for all medical faculty and doctors and asked them to assist in the care of the injured.

The decision affects over 500 students, particularly those in the first and second years, many of whom were living in the building that was hit by the Boeing Dreamliner.

Also Read:Ahmedabad plane crash: 4 MBBS students of BJ Medical College died on spot, 1 seriously injured

More than 200 students, including MBBS residents, have vacated their hostels and returned home due to trauma and fear, adds IANS report

According to sources at the college, at least 40 students who were present during the crash remain in a state of deep shock and distress.

The examinations will be rescheduled once students have recovered from the psychological impact, officials said.

“In light of the current mental and emotional state of our students, and the logistical disruption caused by the collapse of the mess-cum-hostel building, all internal theory and practical exams stand postponed until further notice,” a senior official from BJMC confirmed.

The mess building, which housed both the students’ hostel and dining area, was directly struck by the aircraft’s wing during the crash.

With the mess situated on the first and second floors, residents and interns have been left without access to regular meals and basic services.

In a related move, the college has also called off the summer vacation for all medical faculty and doctors.

The second phase of the summer break was scheduled to begin on June 13, but all medical staff have now been directed to report for duty starting June 14.

The decision has been taken in view of the urgent medical demands arising from the plane crash and the ongoing treatment of injured victims at Civil Hospital, where BJMC doctors are on duty.

Also Read:Breaking News: Air India Plane Crashes into Ahmedabad’s BJ Medical College Hostel

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4 MBBS students died, 20 injured: BJ Medical College Ahmedabad doctors issue statement

Ahmedabad: In a tragic incident, four MBBS students unfortunately lost their lives, and 20 students sustained serious injuries after the London-bound Air India plane crashed into the mess building of the BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. 

According to a press note issued by the Junior Doctors’ Association (JDA) of BJ Medical College, out of the 20 injured students, 11 have already been discharged from the hospital and are in stable condition.

The crash also impacted the families of doctors living in the Atulyam building, which houses Super Speciality doctors. Four family members have tragically died. Additionally, the wife of a resident doctor from the Super Speciality department has been injured and is under treatment.

Also read- Black Day for Medical Fraternity: Doctors Mourn Loss in Air India Plane Crash at BJ Medical College

The tragedy unfolded just 32 seconds after the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner took off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 PM. Eyewitnesses and video footage show the aircraft failing to gain lift before plunging into the BJ Medical College Hostel and bursting into flames. Before the incident, the pilots had sent a Mayday call shortly after take-off, but it was too late.

JDA-BJMC confirmed that all admitted patients are in stable condition and recovering well. The association also addressed the spread of false rumours suggesting a higher death toll among students and doctors. They appealed to the public not to believe in such misinformation and urged everyone to avoid spreading rumours.

JDA-BJMC expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended heartfelt condolences and support to the affected families.

Medical Dialogues recently reported that four medical students of BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad, lost their lives on the spot when the Air India 171 plane crashed into the top of the hostel mess building while they were having their lunch in the afternoon. What began as a normal afternoon turned into a tragedy for these four students, with a life full of hope crushed in just seconds. Among the victims were three close friends – Aryan Rajput, Jay Prakash Chaudhary, and Manav Bhadoo, along with another student, Rakesh Diyora.

Aryan, a first-year student from Jigsoli village near Gwalior, scored 695 marks in the NEET exam and earned his place at the college through the all-India quota. Manav, also a first-year student, was from Hanumangarh in Rajasthan, while Jay Prakash, a second-year student, came from Boricharan village in the same state. Their friendship had grown quickly after they joined college. Another victim- Rakesh Diyora, a second-year student from Diyora village in Bhavnagar, was sitting at a nearby table when the incident happened. 

Also read- Ahmedabad plane crash: 4 MBBS students of BJ Medical College died on spot, 1 seriously injured

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PG Medical Admissions at GMCH Chandigarh: Health Ministry’s Intervention Sought to stop seat reallocation to AIQ

Chandigarh: Students and their parents at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Chandigarh, urged the Union Health Ministry to intervene to halt the proposed reallocation of the State quota postgraduate (MD/MS) seats to the All-India Quota (AIQ) seats in the academic year 2024-2025.

Issuing a notification on June 3, GMCH announced that half of the State quota seats for postgraduate admissions would now be filled based on the All-India merit under the NEET-PG 2024.

There are altogether 148 postgraduate seats at GMCH. Previously, these seats were distributed between the State and all-India quotas.

In the notification, the institute further mentioned that the third counselling round for the remaining 32 State Quota seats would be filled equally based on Institutional Preference and AIQ rank obtained in NEET-PG.

Also Read: NEET PG Counselling delay at GMCH 32 leaves Medicos in limbo

Raising objections regarding the revised mechanism, students and parents have sought the Central Government’s intervention. Commenting on the issue, Dr. Sanjeev Bhatia and Dr. A.K. Agarwal, who are representing the affected group, told The Hindu, “We are opposing this decision because following this notification, half of the State quota seats would be filled through the all-India quota, which would rise up to 75%, exceeding the set National Medical Commission (NMC) norms that limit AIQ to 50% across the country.”

“This shifting of seats puts GMCH students at a significant disadvantage. The GMCH would effectively be the only college in India with 75% of its PG seats under AIQ, which is grossly unjust. If such an unwanted change — which is apparently against the spirit of existing five-judge Supreme Court judgment allowing 50% Institutional Preference quota seats — is enforced, then all medical colleges across India should follow the same 75% AIQ rule, giving GMCH students equal rights. There should be uniformity,” said Dr. Bhatia.

“We request immediate intervention of the Union Health Ministry, Director General of Health Services and NMC to ensure this discrepancy is addressed and to protect the rightful interest of GMCH students. A uniform and fair national policy is essential. The GMCH students and their parents request for fair and equitable justice at par with all other students all over India,” he added.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that challenging the move, some of the PG medical aspirants had filed a plea before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, arguing that the move violated the judgment of the Supreme Court. However, a Division bench of Justices Mahabir Singh Sindhu and H.S. Grewal dismissed the plea and upheld the decision of the Chandigarh administration to reallocate vacant Union Territory (UT) quota seats in postgraduate (PG) medical courses to the All India Quota (AIQ) seats.

The legal challenge stemmed from the Supreme Court’s January 29 order holding domicile-based reservation for PG medical admissions as unconstitutional. Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that earlier this year, the Supreme Court held that domicile-based reservations for postgraduate medical admission could not be allowed as it violated Article 14 of the Constitution.

Again, in an order dated March 24, the Supreme Court remarked, “It was absolutely clear that residence-based reservations were not permissible for postgraduate seats in medical colleges and that only institutional preference, to a limited extent, is allowed.”

In this order, the top court bench had offered clarifications regarding the domicile-based reservations in postgraduate medical admissions and held that there would be no domicile State quota and admissions would be based on 50 per cent all-India and 50 per cent Institutional (IP) quota.

After this, the UT administration in April said that the vacant UT pool seats would be moved to the IP category. However, a fresh notice was issued on June 3, reassigning those seats to the AIQ instead. This resulted in the present legal challenge.

Also Read: Chandigarh PG Medical Admissions: HC Upholds Reallocation of UT Quota Seats to AIQ

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Jodhpur Resident Doctor Attempts Suicide by Consuming Pesticide

Jodhpur: In a distressing incident, a resident doctor from Jodhpur allegedly attempted suicide on Thursday by consuming a sulphos tablet- a highly toxic pesticide containing aluminium phosphide- sending shockwaves through the medical community.  

Following the incident, medical authorities responded urgently, arranging a life-saving transfer to Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital through a specially created green corridor.

The doctor was initially admitted to Mathura Das Mathur (MDM) Hospital in Jodhpur in a critical state.

Also Read: PG Medico injects himself with IV fluids, found dead inside car

As his health rapidly deteriorated, senior doctors decided to transfer him to SMS Hospital for advanced critical care, including ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation)—a last-resort life support technique typically used in cases of severe respiratory or cardiac failure, reports First India.

The motive behind the suicide attempt remains unknown, but the incident has sparked renewed conversations about the growing mental health crisis among doctors.

Also Read: 2nd year PG Radiology medico commits suicide at Ruby Hall Clinic hostel

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that in an unfortunate incident, a 28-year-old resident doctor pursuing his second year of postgraduate studies in radiology at Ruby Hall Clinic allegedly died by suicide. He was found hanging from the ceiling fan of the hostel room he shared with another trainee doctor. The doctor who had been interning in the Radiology department since 2023 was reportedly under a lot of stress. He was found hanging in the PG doctors’ quarters of the private hospital. A suicide note was recovered from his room in which he mentioned the password to his mobile phone and his UPI PIN, requesting that these details be shared with his family. In the note, he said, ‘I am F***** up totally. Can’t say all to anyone.    

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