Nigerian Medical Journal[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Determinants of Left Ventricular Mass Among Apparently Normal Children in Enugu State.
Chinawa JM, Ossai EN, Chinawa AT
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703889 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The left ventricular mass (LVM) index is a very crucial index used for risk stratification among children. This work aimed to document the LVM values among children and delineate the prevalence of LVH among h...
BACKGROUND: The left ventricular mass (LVM) index is a very crucial index used for risk stratification among children. This work aimed to document the LVM values among children and delineate the prevalence of LVH among healthy children in Southeast Nigeria. It elicited the correlation between Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and age, gender and height. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive study involving 218 children drawn from one public and 2 private hospitals over six years. Echocardiographic measurements which assessed various parameters and indices of LVH were ascertained. The data was analyzed with the IBM SPSS statistics for windows, version 20 (IBM Corp, Chicago). RESULTS: The prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy among the respondents was 5.0%. There was a strong positive correlation between left ventricular mass and surface area, (n=218, r=0.751, p<0.001). There was a very strong positive correlation between left ventricular mass and weight, which was found to be statistically significant, (n=218, r=0.755, p<0.001). There was a very strong positive correlation between left ventricular mass and BMI, which was found to be statistically significant, (n=218, r=0.34, p=0.004). There was a positive correlation between left ventricular mass and height, which was found to be statistically significant, (n=218, r=0.126, p=0.238). CONCLUSION: The mean values of LVM indexed to height, BMI, surface area, and weight and compared with gender were elicited in this study. These mean normative values could be a guide for the cardiothoracic surgeon and paediatric cardiologist in some clinical decision-making.
High burden of chronic kidney disease of unknown cause among patients receiving renal replacement therapy in Northeast Nigeria: A cross-sectional survey of haemodialysis units.
Goni BW, Hamidu HSK, Abdu A … +21 more , Ummate I, Abdu A, Ba'aba AI, Sulaiman MM, Umar L, Gana ML, Abdulkadir A, Musa S, Adamu S, Usman IA, Alhaji HS, Musa AI, Adam HB, Ismail AU, Papka A, Mustapha M, Mohammed SY, Oomatia A, Maina MB, Pearce N, Caplin B
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703888 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as a significant public health concern in northeastern Nigeria, particularly in states such as Yobe and Borno. Despite its increasing impact, there is a lack of data c...
BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as a significant public health concern in northeastern Nigeria, particularly in states such as Yobe and Borno. Despite its increasing impact, there is a lack of data characterizing this public health issue. This study aims to explore the prevalence, spatial distribution, and risk factors for CKD among patients receiving haemodialysis (HD) in the region. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey of HD centres in Yobe, Borno, and Jigawa States of Nigeria was conducted. Questionnaire responses were obtained on demographic, social, and clinical data. Spatial analyses were conducted to determine the geographic distribution of the cases. RESULTS: We identified 376 patients receiving HD services across 4 centres. Of these, 207 (55.1%) were male and the mean age was 46.56 ± 16.4. Most patients reside in urban areas (67.6%). The main pre-dialysis occupations included civil service (100 [26.6%]), agriculture (65 [17.3%]), and trading (58 [15.4%]). 'Hypertension' (195 [51.9%]) was the most common self-reported primary renal disease, followed by unknown causes (70 [18.6%]) and Diabetic Kidney Disease (30 [8%]). Regional analysis demonstrated a particularly high burden of disease in Bade and Jakusko Local Government Areas. CONCLUSION: Spatial analysis suggests the existence of a CKD hotspot geographically associated with communities along the River Yobe, raising the possibility of an important environmental cause of disease. This study also highlights the lack of access to adequate diagnosis and geographical clustering of CKD burden in this region. These findings further reinforce the need for population-representative studies to characterize the burden of CKD alongside strategic healthcare interventions and collaboration among stakeholders aimed at improving access to care.xs.
Effects of Red, Green and Black Pepper on Intestinal Motility and Post-Prandial Bicarbonate Concentration in Guinea Pigs.
Charles C, Obia O, Emmanuel FD … +2 more , Ogba A, Ojeka SO
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703887 · Full text
BACKGROUND: In many cultures, pepper is used for its dietary and medicinal benefits. The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the effects of different varieties of pepper on intestinal motility and pos...
BACKGROUND: In many cultures, pepper is used for its dietary and medicinal benefits. The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the effects of different varieties of pepper on intestinal motility and post-prandial bicarbonate concentration in guinea pigs. METHODOLOGY: The study was conducted using 50 adult guinea pigs separated into groups of 5 each; Group 1 served as control. The experimental groups received respectively black, green, and red pepper extracts in concentrations of 25mg/kg, 50mg/kg, and 75mg/kg. For each experimental group, pepper was administered together with a mixture of Evans blue dye and Arabic gum and allowed for one hour. Each animal was thereafter, anesthetized and the intestines dissected out. For each animal, the total length of the intestine as well as the distance travelled by the test meal from the pyloric sphincter were measured and recorded. Intestinal transit was expressed as the percentage of the distance travelled by the test meal to the total length of the intestine. Concomitantly, blood samples were collected to determine the post-prandial bicarbonate concentration. RESULTS: The result showed that all three varieties of pepper caused a significant rise in the percentage of intestinal transit (in 1hr) () and by implication reduction in the intestinal transit time. However, a significant dose-dependent effect was observed in the groups receiving black and green pepper respectively (). This suggests an inverse relationship between the concentrations of black and green pepper with the intestinal transit time. The post-prandial bicarbonate concentrations of the different experimental groups were not significantly changed compared to their control (). This suggests that none of the pepper types given their respective concentrations significantly stimulated gastric acid secretion. CONCLUSION: All three pepper types increased intestinal motility without causing any significant effect on gastric acid secretion.
Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of pharyngeal isolates of children seen in a tertiary facility in Sokoto over three years (2022-2024).
Isezuo KO, Abubakar J, Mohammed Y … +8 more , Sani UM, Waziri UM, Garba BI, Adamu A, Jiya FB, Ibrahim A, Dada KM, Ango UM
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703886 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Acute pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx and surrounding soft tissues caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infectious agents. Only bacterial and fungal infections require antimicrobial therapy. Ov...
BACKGROUND: Acute pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx and surrounding soft tissues caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infectious agents. Only bacterial and fungal infections require antimicrobial therapy. Over-use of antibiotics can lead to anti-microbial resistance which is concerning. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of causative organisms are necessary to guide appropriate treatment. The study aims to retrospectively assess from laboratory records, the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of pharyngeal isolates amongst children aged below 15 years managed at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria. METHODOLOGY: This was a three (3)-year descriptive retrospective review, from January 2022 to December 2024. A convenience sampling technique was used. A review of positive isolates and susceptibility patterns, which were categorized as sensitive, intermediate, and resistant was done. Information was extracted and entered in a study proforma sheet. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. A p-value of 0.05 was taken as significant. RESULTS: The total number of patients results reviewed was 305 comprising 160 males (52.5%) and 145 females. The majority 182 (59.7%) were below five (5) years and 109 (35.7%) had positive bacterial and fungal isolates including 50 (16.4%) Streptococcus pneumoniae, 17 (5.6%) Staphylococcus spp., 16 (5.2%) other Streptococcus spp., & 7 (2.3%) Pseudomonas spp. Sixteen (5.2%) had the fungal agent Candida isolated. Streptococcus pneumoniae demonstrated high sensitivity to ciprofloxacin (44%) followed by ceftriaxone (38%) and erythromycin (24%) likewise Staphylococcus spp but resistance to cefotaxime and amoxycillin-clavulanate. Other Streptococcus spp had high sensitivity to ceftriazone (37.5%) but also demonstrated resistance to ciprofloxacin (37.5%) and gentamicin (31.3%). CONCLUSION: Streptococcus pneumonia, Staphylococcus spp, and other Streptococcus spp were the commonest bacterial pharyngeal isolates and demonstrated mixed sensitivity and resistance to quinolones and cephalosporins antibiotics amongst others. More effort on antimicrobial stewardship is key.
Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anaemia among Chronic Heart Failure Patients in Owerri, Nigeria.
Nwako OF, Ogah OS, Odia OJ … +9 more , Nwako CA, Nwako AB, Iheanacho MC, Obi PC, U Eke CO, Mbata GC, Nwako CN, Iloh GUP, Nwachukwu F
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703885 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) is defined as a clinical syndrome with symptoms and/or signs caused by a structural and/or functional cardiac abnormality and corroborated by elevated natriuretic peptide levels and/or obje...
BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) is defined as a clinical syndrome with symptoms and/or signs caused by a structural and/or functional cardiac abnormality and corroborated by elevated natriuretic peptide levels and/or objective evidence of pulmonary or systemic congestion. Iron deficiency (ID) and erythropoietin dysfunction have been demonstrated as the two basic mechanisms for anaemia in HF. Iron deficiency in chronic heart failure (CHF) is defined as serum ferritin < 100 μg/l or serum ferritin 100-299 μg/l +Transferrin saturation < 20%. In the presence of anaemia, ID is considered iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of IDA in patients with chronic heart failure. METHODOLOGY: This was a hospital-based, cross-sectional descriptive study carried out at Federal Teaching Hospital Owerri, Nigeria. One hundred and sixty (160) HF participants were consecutively recruited in this study. Iron deficiency anaemia was defined by serum ferritin level < 100ug/l or mean cell volume (MCV) < 80% and haemoglobin (Hb) < 10g/dl. The sociodemographic characteristics were obtained through a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: Ninety-five (59.4%) participants were males while 65 (40.6%) were females with a ratio of 1.5:1. The mean age of the total participant was 62.82±14.86 years. Of the 160 participants studied, 118 had anaemia with a prevalence of 73.8%. The prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia was 43.8%. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrated a high prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among chronic heart failure patients in our environment.
Prevalence, Risk Factors and Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterococci caused Urinary Tract Infection among People Living with HIV in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Gebremedhin KB, Medhin G, Alemayehu H … +3 more , Bopegamage S, Amogne W, Eguale T
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703884 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. The antimicrobial resistance characteristic of Enterococci worsens complications among t...
BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. The antimicrobial resistance characteristic of Enterococci worsens complications among this vulnerable population. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Enterococci-caused UTIs, their risk factors, and antimicrobial resistance profile among people living with HIV in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODOLOGY: Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2022 to April 2023. Presumptive Enterococci were identified using standard microbiological culture and biochemical tests and confirmed using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight of Mass Spectrometry at the species level. RESULTS: This study revealed that among the (n= 102) people living with HIV-acquired culture-confirmed UTIs with diverse bacterial uropathogens, (n= 20; 19.6%) were acquired UTIs associated with species: 80% and 20%. Earning monthly income <3000 Ethiopian birr with (adjusted OR) =3.19; (95% CI: 1.05, 9.66) and having exposure to anti-tuberculosis drugs (Adjusted OR = 13.62; 95%CI: 3.53, 52.63) were positively associated with the occurrence of Enterococci-caused UTI. All Enterococci isolates had multi-drug and extensive drug-resistance strains. CONCLUSION: The study concluded a higher prevalence of Enterococci-caused UTIs, with predicting factors: lower income per month, and exposure to antituberculosis drugs, and high level of antimicrobial resistance. Hence, there should be a targeted intervention that could tackle the higher prevalence of infection and antimicrobial resistance among these vulnerable populations, steering the identified predicting factors.
Modelling the Effect of Indoor Residual Spraying on Malaria Transmission in Nassarawa State, North-central Nigeria.
Suleiman AG, Kareem L, Obi C
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703883 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) is one of the two major strategies recommended by the World Health Organization for malaria vector control. Between 2012 and 2013, IRS was piloted in two Local Government Areas...
BACKGROUND: Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) is one of the two major strategies recommended by the World Health Organization for malaria vector control. Between 2012 and 2013, IRS was piloted in two Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Nassarawa State, North-central Nigeria. Uncertainties remain as to whether the intervention led to a decrease in the rate of malaria transmission or not. METHODOLOGY: A simple SIRS model was used to generate a system of ordinary differential equations. The solutions of the model, obtained through Euler's method, were adapted to malaria surveillance data obtained from one of the interventions LGAs to estimate model parameters. The rate of malaria transmission, obtained from the intervention LGA, was compared with the one obtained from a carefully selected control LGA to ascertain the effect of IRS on malaria transmission, assuming other model parameters remained constant. RESULTS: The results showed a good fit of surveillance data to the numerical solutions of the model. The estimated rate of malaria transmission in the intervention LGA was lower than the rate estimated in the non-intervention LGA, even though the difference was marginal (0.95 versus 1.05). Over two years, IRS activities reduced the rate of malaria transmission in the intervention LGA by 10%. The modest decrease was attributed to the way IRS was implemented and the uncertainties associated with using routine surveillance data in Nigeria. CONCLUSION: Future IRS interventions should consider the effect of spray frequency on disease transmission and adopt a robust data collection strategy that will support proper monitoring and evaluation.
Lipid Profile Pattern among Women Screened for Hyperglycaemia in Pregnancy at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Lukden MS, Imoh LC, Solomon ML … +3 more , Ibu OA, Bigwan YT, Isichei CO
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703882 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy (HIP) represents one of the most common medical challenges in pregnancy and the leading cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes the world over. Normal pregnancy is characterized by phy...
BACKGROUND: Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy (HIP) represents one of the most common medical challenges in pregnancy and the leading cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes the world over. Normal pregnancy is characterized by physiological adaptations such as progressive gestation-dependent increases in maternal triglycerides and total cholesterol which could be affected by insulin resistance, a common denominator affecting glucose and lipid metabolism. The study aimed to compare the patterns among pregnant women with HIP and those without HIP and determine the correlates of dyslipidaemia in pregnant women with HIP. METHODOLOGY: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 204 participants were recruited, made up of 65 women with HIP (cases) and 139 normoglycaemic women (controls). The data collected included demographics, anthropometric measurements, and medical history. Lipid profile assays were done using Roche Cobass C111 automated analyser (sdLDL was isolated using the Hirano method prior to analysis). RESULTS: The prevalence of HIP was found to be 31.7% among the study population. Dyslipidemia defined by LDL, TG, TC, HDL, and sdLDL was seen in 60%, 38.5%, 22.5%, 19%, and 30% respectively. Women with HIP had a slightly higher risk of dyslipidemia than normoglycaemic women. Overall, the difference in dyslipidemia between HIP and normoglcaemic women was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Dyslipidemia in pregnancy is a relatively common finding in the Nigerian population. However, the pattern of dyslipidemia in normoglycaemic pregnant women is largely similar to the pattern seen in women with hyperglycaemia in pregnancy in the Nigerian population.
Left Ventricular Geometry and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Phenotype in Newly Diagnosed Hypertension in North-eastern Nigeria.
Galtimari IA, Ijuptil C, Maina SM … +3 more , Buba F, Talle MA, Oyati AI
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703881 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH) is a key component of hypertensive heart disease. The prevalence of hypertensive LVH ranges from 19% to 48 % in untreated hypertensive patients amongst the Western populatio...
BACKGROUND: Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH) is a key component of hypertensive heart disease. The prevalence of hypertensive LVH ranges from 19% to 48 % in untreated hypertensive patients amongst the Western population but is 46% to 63% in Nigeria. The study aims to highlight the prevalence of LVH and to determine the pattern of LV geometry and the LVH phenotype in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. METHODOLOGY: The study was cross-sectional, and observational between June 2019 and June 2021. The study population comprised 300 newly diagnosed hypertensive adult patients aged 18 years and above, and 300 Healthy age, sex-matched non-hypertensive adults as control groups. An echocardiography was performed and the diagnostic criteria for LVH, LV Geometry and LVH phenotype were used based on the American Society of Echocardiography and the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging. RESULTS: The total number of study participants was 600, three hundred newly diagnosed hypertensive patients and three hundred normotensive controls. The male participants comprised 180 (60%) of the newly diagnosed hypertensive cases and 120 (40%) of the normotensive controls, while the female participants accounted for 168 (56%) of the hypertensive group and 132 (44%) of the control group, respectively. Overall, 59% of newly diagnosed hypertensive patients had LVH. Concentric LVH was the commonest LV geometry with a prevalence of 37% among newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. Fifty-five point four per cent (55.4%) of newly diagnosed hypertensive patients had concentric non-dilated hypertrophy. CONCLUSION: LVH is highly prevalent and occurs in more than half of newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. The commonest LV geometry is concentric hypertrophy, and the LVH phenotype of concentric non-dilated Hypertrophy accounts for more than half of LVH.
Correlation Between CHADS-VASc Scores and Left Atrial Measurements: A Single-Center Retrospective Study.
Sahan HF, Acikel S, Ertan N … +5 more , Algul E, Ozbeyaz NB, Sunman H, Cimen T, Tulmac M
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703880 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Left atrial (LA) and left atrial appendage (LAA) remodeling are critical indicators of adverse cardiovascular outcomes linked to various risk factors. This study aims to investigate the correlation between CH...
BACKGROUND: Left atrial (LA) and left atrial appendage (LAA) remodeling are critical indicators of adverse cardiovascular outcomes linked to various risk factors. This study aims to investigate the correlation between CHA2DS2-VASc and left atrial measurements in patients with sinus rhythm. METHODOLOGY: The retrospective, single-center study included 250 patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) imaging at a state hospital in Turkey. LA dimensions, volumes, LAA types, and LAA orifice area and volume were assessed using CCTA images. Additionally, we evaluated CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores and cardiovascular risk factors. RESULTS: This present study indicated that patients with low CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores had smaller appendage orifice area (270.69±84.72 vs. 300.97±97.65 mm, p=0.01), LA long diameter (60.73±6.83 vs. 64.53±7.66 mm, p<0.001), LA short diameter (40.32±5.88 vs. 43.02±6.54 mm, p=0.001), and LA volume (101.55±34.14 vs. 114.34±32.58 mm, p=0.003). There was a significant relationship between patient age and all LA and LAA measurements, including LAA volume (r=0.204, p<0.001), LAA orifice area (r=0.342, p<0.001), LA long diameter (r=0.329, p<0.001), LA short diameter (r=0.257, p<0.001), and LA volume (r=0.231, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Cardiovascular risk factors and CHA₂DS₂-VASc scores are valuable markers for assessing atrial cardiomyopathy and left atrial appendage (LAA) remodeling, and they may aid in predicting stroke risk.
Perception of nurse academicians on academic publications: A cross-sectional study.
T L, Sharma SK, Patidar V … +3 more , Gaur R, Nath S, Mudgal SK
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703879 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Academic publication is a cornerstone of advancing nursing science, as it provides evidence-based research that guides clinical practice and education. However, the pressure to publish for career advancement...
BACKGROUND: Academic publication is a cornerstone of advancing nursing science, as it provides evidence-based research that guides clinical practice and education. However, the pressure to publish for career advancement has led to concerns about behaviours such as the 'urge to publish' and 'panic publishing'. The perception behind these trends remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the perception of Indian nurse academicians on academic publications. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study surveyed Indian nurse academicians from Institutes of National Importance (INIs) of India who were selected convenient sampling technique. Data was collected through an online self-structured questionnaire. The survey covered socio-demographic details and perceptions for publishing in academic publications. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 26.0, with descriptive and inferential statistics. A significance level (p < 0.05) was used for statistical associations. RESULTS: Of the respondents, 66.8% were female, and 92.3% had published before [median 12 (IQR 7-38) articles], with 21.7% preferring PubMed-indexed journals. More than two-thirds of participants (64.7%) spent an excessive amount of time on the publication process. There were differences by gender as men were more prone to assess publication metrics (p<0.05), ignore other facets of life for publishing (p=0.005), and self-reported publication addiction-like behaviors (18% compared to 4% for women). CONCLUSION: Academic publishing is a crucial but stress-inducing aspect of nurse academicians' careers. These findings underscore the need for a balanced approach that values quality over quantity in academic publishing. Institutions should promote ethical research practices, provide support to manage publication pressures and foster a more sustainable academic environment.
Investigating serum levels of IL-6 and TNF alpha, and the risk of thrombosis in newly diagnosed chemotherapy naïve obese cancer patients.
Ugwu AO, Nnakenyi ID, Okwor CJ
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703878 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Obesity and cancer increase thrombosis risk. IL-6 and TNF-α, are key inflammatory cytokines, which may contribute to hypercoagulability in newly diagnosed, chemotherapy-naïve obese cancer patients, warranting...
BACKGROUND: Obesity and cancer increase thrombosis risk. IL-6 and TNF-α, are key inflammatory cytokines, which may contribute to hypercoagulability in newly diagnosed, chemotherapy-naïve obese cancer patients, warranting further investigation. This study aimed to investigate the serum levels of these inflammatory biomarkers and risk of VTE in chemotherapy naïve obese cancer patients (CNOCPs). METHODOLOGY: The study was cross-sectional analytical in design. The participants consisted of newly diagnosed patients with solid malignancies recruited from adult oncology clinics of a Nigerian tertiary hospital. They were grouped into two: case group (n = 37) consisting of chemotherapy naïve OCPs and control group (n = 63) consisting of chemotherapy naïve non-OCPs Patients were risk assessed using the Khorana scoring system. All the patients' serum samples were assayed by ELISA technique for IL-6 and TNF-α. History of VTE was obtained from the patients' case notes and by direct interviews with the patients. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 48.44±13.4 (range = 20 - 76) years, and the mean BMI was 26.80±6.3Kg/m. The mean levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly higher in chemotherapy naïve OCPs than the controls (7.9 ± 1.2 vs. 6.5 ±1.2, p < 0.001 and 5.2 ± 2.3 vs. 4.1 ± 1.9, p = 0.012 respectively. Also, chemotherapy naïve OCPs had a three-fold higher risk of VTE than the controls (OR: 3.0; 95% CI: 1.1-7.5; p= 0.03). CONCLUSION: The inflammatory biomarkers were significantly higher in chemotherapy naïve OCPs than the non-obese controls. Additionally, they are at higher risk of VTE. These findings could strengthen clinicians' disposition for prompt initiation of thromboprophylaxis in OCPs.
Challenges, Clinical and Laboratory Profile of Children Referred for Micropenis at a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital.
Oyenusi EE, Oleolo-Ayodeji KO, Moronkola OA … +2 more , Oyenusi AS, Oduwole AO
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703877 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Micropenis in a child may not only be related to cosmesis but raise the suspicion of a disorder of sex development or endocrine conditions requiring urgent attention. The study aims to describe the clinical a...
BACKGROUND: Micropenis in a child may not only be related to cosmesis but raise the suspicion of a disorder of sex development or endocrine conditions requiring urgent attention. The study aims to describe the clinical and laboratory profile of children referred for micropenis over a six-year period at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and highlight challenges encountered in management of these children. METHODOLOGY: This was a retrospective study. Case records of patients who were referred with complaints or diagnoses of "micropenis" from March 2018 to March 2024 were analysed. The Health Research and Ethics Committee of LUTH approved the study. RESULTS: Eighty-three children were referred for micropenis. On review, the stretched penile length (SPL) in 16 children (mean [SD]age of 8.9± 3.42 years) was within reference ranges and they were excluded from further evaluations. The remaining 67 children with confirmed micropenis constituted 12.4% of 541 new paediatric endocrine cases. The median age (range) at presentation was 9(0.7-16) years. Boys within the peripubertal age group constituted the majority of the patients. Co-morbidities included obesity, Down Syndrome, sickle cell anaemia, and growth hormone deficiency. Challenges in management included unaffordability of laboratory tests as only 21 children (31.3%) performed the human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) stimulation, our local testing, more than half (68.6%) could not carry out any investigations and age-appropriate/ preparations of testosterone were unavailable for treatment. CONCLUSION: Micropenis constituted a sizeable proportion of the paediatric endocrine consultations in our setting. Accurate measurements are important to exclude unaffected children and prevent unnecessary expensive investigations. The National Health Insurance Services (NHIS) should be strengthened to enable patients to access necessary investigations and treatment related to micropenis. Licensing of age-appropriate drugs for treatment by relevant authorities is advocated.
Cervical Lesion Evaluation in Females of Reproductive Age in Ondo Town, Nigeria.
Moronkeji A, Adeniyi TD, Ajayi AS … +5 more , Eze GI, Akinbo FO, Olarewaju BT, Ojekunle CA, Ogunleye AO
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703876 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Several African countries, including Nigeria, continue to have a high prevalence of cervical cancer due to a lack of knowledge about screening and prevention measures, with diagnosis most usually confirmed wh...
BACKGROUND: Several African countries, including Nigeria, continue to have a high prevalence of cervical cancer due to a lack of knowledge about screening and prevention measures, with diagnosis most usually confirmed when the prognosis is poorest. This study evaluated the Pap smear pattern and the level of cervical cancer awareness among females of reproductive age in Ondo Town, Nigeria. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study included 102 female participants aged 30 to 54. The stained smears were analyzed and reported using the Bethesda reporting system. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from participants, and the data obtained was statistically analysed using ANOVA for variable comparison across groups, with a confidence interval of 95% considered statistically significant and a p-value of less than 0.05 reported. RESULTS: Findings revealed that 90.2% of the evaluated smears were negative for squamous intraepithelial lesions and malignancy, while low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions were detected in 7.84% of cases, and reactive cellular changes accounted for 1.96% of the studied population. Additionally, there was a considerable level of awareness regarding cervical cancer (72.5%) and cervical cancer screening (54.9%); however, only 45.1% of the women had ever undergone a Papanicolaou smear, and an even smaller proportion (19.6%) reported routine screening. The low uptake of cervical cancer screening as a routine test may be attributed to the absence of effective, widespread, or systematic cervical cancer screening programs in Ondo town. CONCLUSION: There is a significant relationship between age, risk exposure, and development of cervical lesions among participants in this study. Awareness and lifestyle factors are also key determinants of cervical lesion development and the uptake of cervical cancer screening. Although participants demonstrated awareness of cervical cancer, their knowledge of its preventive measures remained limited. It is recommended that health education campaigns be expanded to enhance the uptake of screening services.
Diagnosis of a secondary central nervous system Lymphoma (SCNSL) in a patient with low proliferative Mantle cell lymphoma.
Oisakede EO, Khalid A, Patalappa C … +2 more , Anjum F, Heyam H
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703875 · Full text
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) represents a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with approximately 4% of patients experiencing central nervous system (CNS) involvement. There is a higher likelihood of CNS Infiltration in p...
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) represents a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with approximately 4% of patients experiencing central nervous system (CNS) involvement. There is a higher likelihood of CNS Infiltration in patients who have elevated Ki-67 Levels, a marker associated with prognosis and CNS involvement. Herein, we present the case of a 72-year-old individual of British ancestry, known to have stage 4A MCL, exhibiting a Ki-67 index of 10%. He had just completed six cycles of Rituximab and Bendamustine with a good radiological response. The patient presented with episodic vacant states accompanied by confusion, recurrent dysphasia, and frontotemporal headaches followed by visual and auditory hallucinations upon hospital admission. Initial imaging studies failed to reveal compelling evidence of secondary central nervous system lymphoma (SCNSL), leading to a presumptive diagnosis of transient ischemic attack (TIA) given the patient's recurrent visits to the emergency department. However, subsequent evaluation by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed lymphocytic infiltrates with a negative bioFire test. Additional testing with the haematological malignancy diagnostic service (HMDS) unveiled findings consistent with CNS involvement secondary to known MCL. Our case report underscores the imperative for thorough CSF analysis in patients with MCL, irrespective of a seemingly low proliferation index such as Ki-67. This will promptly identify and manage potential CNS involvement.
Neurotherapy as a Complementary Approach for Beta-Thalassemia Intermedia.
Dutta P, Dev D
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703874 · Full text
Beta-thalassemia intermedia (β-TI) is a genetic disorder characterized by chronic anaemia resulting from ineffective erythropoiesis. While management typically involves transfusions and pharmacological therapies, these c...
Beta-thalassemia intermedia (β-TI) is a genetic disorder characterized by chronic anaemia resulting from ineffective erythropoiesis. While management typically involves transfusions and pharmacological therapies, these carry risks like iron overload and variable efficacy. Alternative approaches, such as neurotherapy, offer potential for improving haematological outcomes without invasive interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of neurotherapy as a complementary treatment in a 44-year-old female patient with β-TI. A 44-year-old female with β-TI underwent 48 neurotherapy sessions over three months (four sessions per week). Therapy targeted specific pressure points to stimulate organ functions critical for haemoglobin synthesis and overall health, including the pancreas, kidneys, thyroid, and liver. Techniques focused on improving erythropoietin production, enhancing iron metabolism, and promoting globin chain synthesis. Following therapy, the patient's haemoglobin level increased from 5.9 g/dL to 9.7 g/dL, with improvements in haematocrit, MCV, MCH, MCHC and ferritin levels. Platelets, serum TSH and ESR showed significant reductions, while vitamin B12 normalized. Clinically, the patient reported increased energy levels, reduced fatigue, and improved physical activity tolerance. No adverse effects were observed, and the patient expressed high satisfaction with the outcomes. This case highlights the potential of neurotherapy as a safe and effective adjunctive treatment for β-TI. By improving haematological parameters and alleviating fatigue, neurotherapy could serve as a valuable addition to the therapeutic toolkit for managing this condition.
Clinical Challenges with Neovascular Glaucoma-Patient Tailored Strategies and Outcomes.
Rao A, Padhi TR, Khan SM
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703873 · Full text
BACKGROUND: To report the outcomes of patient-tailored concurrent combined surgery for retinal ischemia and intraocular pressure (IOP) control in neovascular glaucoma (NVG) with or without cataract. METHODOLOGY: Patients...
BACKGROUND: To report the outcomes of patient-tailored concurrent combined surgery for retinal ischemia and intraocular pressure (IOP) control in neovascular glaucoma (NVG) with or without cataract. METHODOLOGY: Patients with Ninety-seven (97) eyes with NVG seen between January 2022-September 2023 at a tertiary eye care centre were recruited for this study. Six (6) eyes (4 proliferative diabetic retinopathy and 2 retinal vein occlusions) that underwent concurrent retinal and glaucoma procedures with or without cataract surgery, were selected. Outcomes after surgery were judged based on the World Glaucoma Association guidelines on reporting glaucoma surgical trials, comprising functional and surgical parameters. RESULTS: The IOP reduced by>50% from baseline in all 6 eyes, with one eye developing shallow AC by overstraining and 3 eyes developing transient self-resolving hyphema. Two eyes received additional bevacizumab (n=1) or ranibizumab (n=1) injections for persistent DME at 4 and 5 months after surgery. The final IOP was reduced in all eyes at the final follow-up of 6±1.2 months, with one eye requiring 2 medications for IOP control. CONCLUSION: The outcomes after concurrent retinal and glaucoma filtering surgery in NVG may be comparable to those of the traditional stepwise approach to management, provided these are offered on a case-by-case basis.
Unusual Retroperitoneal Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Giant Masqueraders.
Singh GR, Kumari M, Singh A … +3 more , Atreya K, Sinha N, Haldar D
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703872 · Full text
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) in the retroperitoneum are rare and account for a small percentage of adult STS. The most common type is liposarcoma, while fibrosarcoma and extra skeletal Ewing sarcoma (EES) are rarer. Retrop...
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) in the retroperitoneum are rare and account for a small percentage of adult STS. The most common type is liposarcoma, while fibrosarcoma and extra skeletal Ewing sarcoma (EES) are rarer. Retroperitoneal fibrosarcoma's are extremely uncommon. Diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation including clinical, radiological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical examinations to determine the specific subtype of STS in the retroperitoneum. A 76-year-old male presented with a large retroperitoneal tumour. Surgery successfully removed the tumor which was diagnosed as dedifferentiated liposarcoma based on microscopic analysis and positive vimentin and MDM2 markers. We also report a case of 69-year-old male with a retroperitoneal mass that was ultimately diagnosed as adult fibrosarcoma after ruling out other possibilities. The third case was of 55-year-old female who presented with left lumbar pain, backache, and weight loss. Imaging revealed a retroperitoneal mass with hepatic metastasis. Histopathological examination and IHC analysis confirmed the diagnosis of extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma. The importance of accurate diagnosis through histopathological examination and immunohistochemical analysis is emphasized for effective management and prognosis.
Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of ultra-sensitive and conventional rapid diagnostic tests for malaria in asymptomatic pregnant women at a tertiary hospital in North-Central Nigeria.
Anenga UM, Swende TZ, Hembah-Hilekaan SK
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703871 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Malaria in pregnancy continues to be a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Pregnant women are at a higher risk because asymptomatic malaria infections may lead to detrimental pregnancy outcomes...
BACKGROUND: Malaria in pregnancy continues to be a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Pregnant women are at a higher risk because asymptomatic malaria infections may lead to detrimental pregnancy outcomes. Early diagnosis is the main strategy to reduce these adverse outcomes; however, conventional rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are inadequate for detecting low-density infections. There are prospects that ultra-or highly sensitive RDTs may improve the detection of malaria in these populations. The objective of this study is to assess and compare the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasensitive and conventional RDTs for malaria in asymptomatic pregnant women at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi. METHODOLOGY: This was a cross-sectional comparative study conducted in the antenatal clinic of Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, Nigeria. It involved 107 asymptomatic pregnant women whose peripheral venous blood samples were obtained and tested with conventional RDT (co-RDT) and ultra-sensitive RDT (us-RDT) to detect Plasmodium falciparum in peripheral blood. The results from microscopy were used as the reference standard. Results were categorised as positive and negative. RESULTS: The overall prevalence rate of P. falciparum was 14% using microscopy, followed by us-RDT (12.1%) and co-RDT (2.8%). The us-RDT showed a higher sensitivity (66.7% vs. 13.3%), positive predictive value (83.3% vs. 50.0%), negative predictive value (94.7% vs. 87.4%), and test accuracy (93.5% vs. 86.0%) compared to co-RDT. In comparison, the specificity of both tests was similar (97.8%). There was a significant difference in diagnostic performance between the two RDTs (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: The study suggests that ultrasensitive RDTs are a more effective test for detecting P. falciparum infection in asymptomatic pregnant women compared to conventional RDTs. This may have important implications for clinical decision-making and the management of malaria in pregnancy.
Pattern of electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings amongst Nigeria national football team players.
Ngabea MA, Oboirien IO, Ochayi OM
Niger Med J · 2025 · PMID 40703870 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Cardiac adaptations in athletes, particularly football players, often result in distinct electrocardiographic (ECG) and echocardiographic changes. This study evaluates these cardiac patterns in Nigerian natio...
BACKGROUND: Cardiac adaptations in athletes, particularly football players, often result in distinct electrocardiographic (ECG) and echocardiographic changes. This study evaluates these cardiac patterns in Nigerian national football players compared to matched non-athlete controls. METHODOLOGY: A case-control study was conducted from January 2022 to December 2023 during pre-participation screenings of national football teams: Super Eagles, Flying Eagles, Golden Eaglets, Super Falcons, and Falconets. Seventy-eight athletes (aged 18-32) were compared with 42 age- and sex-matched controls drawn from team officials and supporters. Inclusion criteria required active participation in professional football for athletes and absence of known cardiac disease for controls. All participants underwent detailed history, physical examination, resting ECG, and 2D echocardiography. ECGs were assessed for features suggestive of athlete's heart or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Echocardiograms were performed with a Hewlett-Packard Sonos 2500 using a 3.5 MHz probe to measure ventricular dimensions, wall thickness, and function. RESULTS: Footballers demonstrated significant cardiac adaptations. ECGs showed lower mean heart rates, longer PR intervals, and a higher prevalence of sinus bradycardia and incomplete right bundle branch block. Additionally, footballers had higher R/S wave voltages and more frequent ST-segment elevations. Echocardiographic findings revealed larger left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions, as well as increased interventricular septal and posterior wall thickness, consistent with physiological, not pathological, hypertrophy. CONCLUSION: Nigerian national football players exhibit characteristic ECG and echocardiographic patterns reflecting physiological cardiac remodeling due to intensive training. Differentiating these benign adaptations from pathological findings is essential for accurate cardiovascular assessment and safe sports participation.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe