Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding COVID-19 skin manifestations among doctors working at Khartoum dermatology and venereology teaching Hospital, 2021

Background: COVID-19 is a global pandemic caused by SARS_COV2. The symptoms of covid-19 include: fever, dyspnea, fatigue, a recent loss of smell and taste, sore throat, cough, and cutaneous lesions. In addition, some skin manifestations were reported to be associated with COVID-19. Methods: The study design is a descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study. The study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and practice about skin manifestations of COVID-19 among doctors working at Khartoum dermatology and venereology teaching hospital. A self-administrated questionnaire was used for data collection after an informed consent was taken. Results: Among 140 doctors working in the dermatology and venereology teaching hospital, 75.7% of the doctors had knowledge that COVID-19 can present with skin manifestations. The study results showed that about half of the participants have poor knowledge about COVID-19 skin manifestations while 25% have no knowledge, and that 35 (25%) doctors have good knowledge. From a total of 140 doctors; 46.4% reported that when patients present with COVID-19 skin lesions, they will isolate them in separate rooms and call the epidemiology center, whereas, 61 doctors (43.6%) did not know if they have a protocol for COVID-19 suspected cases. This study reported a significant association between job category and level of knowledge toward COVID-19 skin manifestations measured by Chi-square test, the P-value was 0.003 (significant at 0.05), and the same significant association was found between the year of rotation and knowledge. Conclusion: Half of the doctors covered by this study had poor knowledge about COVID-19 skin manifestations, and therefore, educating doctors in dermatology hospitals about skin manifestations of COVID-19 is recommended, besides clear and precise guidelines and protocols for diagnosis and management.

Prevalence and seroprevalence of COVID-19 in suspected malaria during the second wave in Yaounde, Cameroon

Background. The COVID-19 pandemic has added an additional burden in countries with already fragile health systems. Our objective was to determine the prevalence and seroprevalence of COVID-19 in suspected malaria during the second wave in Yaounde. Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Jordan Medical Services for 8 weeks from April 19 to June 13, 2021, i.e., during the second wave in Cameroon. For the 86 patients with suspected malaria, nasopharyngeal and blood samples were taken for SARS-CoV-2 antigen and anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM using the STANDARD TM Q COVID-19 Ag kit from SD BIOSENSOR, Korea, 2020 and Standard TM Q COVID 19 Ac IgG/IgM kit from SD BIOSENSOR, Korea, 2020 respectively. Confirmation of malaria was done by microscopic examination of stained blood smears. Results. Malaria was confirmed in 20.9% (18) of cases. The prevalences of COVID-19 and COVID-19/malaria co-infection were 8.1% and 0.9% respectively. Of the 25.6% (54) of patients with anti-COVID-19 IgM, no positive microscopic cases were found. On the other hand, a little more than half of the patients had IgG antibodies against COVID-19 whether they had a positive thick drop or not (56.0% (42/75) and 52.2% (71/136) respectively). Conclusion. In case of suspicion of malaria in a malaria area, it seems important to consider COVID-19 as a differential diagnosis.

Introduction. La pandémie de la COVID-19 a ajouté un fardeau supplémentaire dans les pays aux systèmes de santé déjà fragiles. Objectif : déterminer la prévalence et la séroprévalence de la COVID-19 en cas de suspicion du paludisme au cours de la deuxième vagueà Yaoundé. Méthodologie. Une étude transversale descriptive a été menée au Centre Médical le Jourdain pendant 8 semaines du 19 Avril au 13 Juin 2021 soit durant la deuxième vague au Cameroun. Pour les 86 patients avec suspicion de paludisme, des prélèvements nasopharyngé et sanguins ont été réalisés pour la recherche d'antigène du SRAS- CoV 2 et des IgG et IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 grâce aux kits STANDARDTM Q COVID-19 Ag de SD BIOSENSOR, Corée, 2020 et StandardTM Q COVID 19 Ac IgG/IgM de SD BIOSENSOR, Corée, 2020 respectivement. La confirmation du paludisme a été faite grâce à l'examen microscopique des étalements de sang colorés. Résultats. Le paludisme était confirmé dans 20,9% (18) des cas. Les prévalences de la COVID-19 et de la coïnfection COVID19/Paludisme étaient de 8,1% et de 0,9% respectivement. Sur les 25,6% (54) des patients avec des IgM anti-COVID-19, aucun cas de microscopie positive n'a été retrouvé. Par ailleurs un peu plus de la moitié des patients avaient des anticorps IgG anti-COVID-19 qu'ils aient une goutte épaisse positive ou pas soit 56,0% (42/75) et 52,2% (71/136) respectivement. Conclusion. En cas de suspicion du paludisme en zone impaludée, il parait non négligeable de considérer la COVID-19 comme un diagnostic différentiel.

Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G antibody during COVID-19 pandemic in Fayoum District, Egypt: a community-based pilot survey

Introduction: controlling the worldwide pandemic, coronavirus disease (COVID-19), could be impossible due to the hesitancy about the available vaccines and the difficulty to implement strict restrictions. Little information is available about herd immunity in the highly vulnerable region of North East Africa, Egypt. Objectives: to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic in one of the highly vulnerable populations in Egypt, Fayoum district of Fayoum Governorate. Additionally, to assess the predictive value of symptoms and other associated risk factors towards a positive COVID-19 test. Methods: in this cross-sectional community-based pilot study, immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies that are specific for the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S1-RBD) protein were tested during the period from February 2021 to July 2021. Results: out of 155 participants, 60.6% were SARS-CoV-2 seropositive. Out of symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, 76.5% and 56.2% were seropositive, respectively. Surprisingly, only one individual had received the COVID-19 vaccine. Previous history of COVID-19; such as symptoms and gender are statistically significant predictors of high seroconversion independent of age, comorbidities, and level of education. Conclusion: this study which disclosed unexpectedly high SARS-CoV-2 seroconversion among the Egyptians, might provide a clear insight into COVID-19 transmission patterns and state of immunity. Further study with a larger sample size on a large scale is required to represent the whole local population.

Delayed SARS-COV-2 clearance in infected persons in Ghana

Objective: This study aimed to determine the duration of SARS-CoV-2 clearance in persons in Ghana. The research question was whether the duration of virus clearance in Ghana matched the 14 days recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO); this had direct implications for transmission, which was key in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Design: This was a retrospective analytical study. Setting: All facilities that submitted clinical specimens to Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis between March to June 2020 were included in the study. Interventions: Samples from 480 persons who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR from March to June 2020 at NMIMR and submitted at least two follow-up samples were retrospectively analysed. Individuals with two consecutive negative RT-PCR retesting results were considered to have cleared SARS-CoV-2. Results: The median time from the initial positive test to virus clearance was 20 days (IQR: 5-56 days). This was six days longer than the WHO-recommended 14 days, after which infected persons could be de-isolated. Sputum and nasopharyngeal swabs proved more sensitive for detecting viral RNA as the infection progressed. At a significance level of 0.05, age and sex did not seem to influence the time to SARS-CoV-2 clearance. Conclusions: The median time to SARS-CoV-2 clearance in this study was 20 days, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 infected persons in Ghana take longer to clear the virus. This finding calls for further investigations into whether patients who remain PCR positive continue to be infectious and inform isolation practices in Ghana.

Determining compliance with the COVID-19 daily symptom monitoring tool used to identify suspected COVID-19 workers of the military health support formation employees of the South African national defence force

Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic had prompted governments in many countries to enact laws and policies to combat the spread of COVID-19 at work. The DEL required every worker to be screened when they arrived at work. Screening methods included self-reporting symptoms using a symptom monitoring tool. This study aimed to determine compliance with the symptom monitoring tool by assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the MHSF employees. Methods: a cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to the employees. Information related to demographic, COVID-19 exposure, knowledge of COVID-19 and the symptom monitoring tool, attitude towards the symptom monitoring tool and practices towards COVID-19 and the symptom monitoring tool was collected. Results: a total of 90 participants participated in the study. The majority (N=45; 50%) of respondents were aged between 30 and 39 years old, with more female (N=50) than male (N=40) participants. The majority (N=51; 56.7%) only had grade 12 as the highest level of education. There were 25% (N=10) of males and 20% (N=10) of females who contracted COVID-19. The relationship between the COVID-19 positive cases and the symptom monitoring tool identifying symptoms had a strong negative correlation (-0.932). Respondent's knowledge of COVID-19 and the symptom monitoring tool was moderate (72.4%), with the attitude to the symptom monitoring tool being moderate (63.3%) as well. However, the practices of the COVID-19 guidelines and the symptom monitoring tool were good (93.3%).

Attitudes and treatment practices of mothers regarding teething

Background: Generally, mothers are saddled with early childcare responsibilities. Therefore, their attitude, practice, and care toward events occurring in early childhood including teething are important. Objective: To evaluate the attitudes and treatment practices of mothers regarding teething, Materials and Methods: The study is a descriptive cross-sectional survey. A systematic random sampling technique was utilized in selecting the participants for this study. Socio-demographics, attitudes, and treatment practices of mothers regarding teething were obtained via an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. IBM SPSS, Version 21.0. was used for data analysis. The level of significance was set at p= 0.05 Results: A total of 120 mothers participated in the study. The participants in the age group of 20-30 years were in the majority. A majority (86.7%; n=104) strongly agreed that mothers have a role to play in the management of teething. On the other hand, less than half (41.7%; n=50) strongly agreed that doctors have a role to play in the management of teething. Of the 103 mothers who practice self-medication, over 85% (85.4%; n=87) use teething syrup, 63.1% (n=65) sometimes use antibiotics, 80.6% (n=82) use analgesics, and 68.0% (n=70) always use herbal mixtures. The study further revealed a negative grade for attitude and a fair grade for practice Conclusion: Though the attitude level of mothers towards teething in this study was more negative, their treatment practices were nonetheless fair. We recommend educational programs that aim to improve the observed areas of negative attitudes and practices of the study population.

Awareness of Stroke among University Employees in Kigali, Rwanda: A Cross Sectional Study

Background Awareness of stroke is important for appropriate and timely stroke prevention and management. Objective To assess the level of awareness about the risk factors, signs, and appropriate responses for stroke among university employees in Rwanda. Methods We employed a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional approach. We involved 92 participants, and a self-administered questionnaire to collect data. We computed descriptive statistics and used the Chi-Square test to assess any differences in stroke awareness. Results We found that 12% and 15.2% of the participants were not aware of any risk factor and warning sign of stroke respectively. Regarding the reaction in case a warning sign of stroke was noticed, 9.8% of the participants indicated that they would do nothing or advise the victim to take rest at home. The limited awareness was significantly higher in the administrative than academic employees for both risk factors (p=0.002) and warning signs (p=0.006), but not for the appropriate responses to stroke (p=0.426). Conclusion A significant proportion of the participants were not aware of any stroke risk factor, warning sign and appropriate responses. It is important to conduct further similar studies and implement stroke education interventions in university communities

COVID-19 pandemic and factors influencing depression in residents of the Democratic Republic of Congo

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak caused the border closure, martial law declaration, and lockdown to prevent the spread of the disease. These policies caused reduced interaction among people,social isolation, and higher levels of anxiety and depression. Objectives: This study aimed to examine changes in depressive symptoms of residents of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that may have arisen due to the COVID-19 and lockdown measures and to identify relevant influencing factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 300 residents of the DRC. An online survey tool investigated general and public health characteristics and included the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for measuring depressive symptoms. The study was conducted from April 7­30, 2020. Results: The average depression score was low at 2.74±3.33. Factors influencing depression were the number of family members, probability of death due to COVID-19, knowledge of COVID-19, and time at home. The factor that most significantly influenced depression and these variables accounted for 26.9% of the influence of COVID-19 on depression (F= 9.936, p<.001). Conclusion: This study investigated the influence of COVID-19 outbreak on depression in DRC. Levels of depression increased for individuals who were living alone, had low levels of knowledge of COVID-19 and awareness of the disease severity, and spent a long time at home.

Malaria prevalence and associated additional risk factors among children under-five years who sleep under insecticide treated nets in Zambia

Background:Insecticide Treated Nets are one of the backbones of malaria prevention in Africa where the vector mosquitos bite at night and prefer humans for feeding. Children who sleep under Insecticide Treated Nets though protected still get malaria infections. This study aimed to assess the risk factors of malaria infection among under-five childrenwhosleepunderinsecticide-treatedTreated Nets. Methodology:This was a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional survey the Malaria Indicator survey of 2021 in Zambia. Data was extracted from the database at the Ministry of Health and analysed in STATAversion 14. Data was analysed in counts and frequencies,cross-tabulations andassociationsassessed using logistic regressing using complex data analysis.Results:Atotal of 1695 children aged below five years who had slept under an Insecticide Treated Net the night before the survey were included in the study, 50.9% were female while 49.1 were male. Over a third of them (23.9%) had a fever in the previous two weeks, over half 51.9% of them had anaemia and 28.8% of them had malaria infection tested using Rapid Diagnostic tests. There was a 3.46 (95%CI 2.67 ­ 4.49) increase in the odds of having malaria ifthe under-five child was anaemic (haemoglobin less than 11mg/dl). Other factors that are usually associated with malaria infection such as younger age group, low socio-economic status, residing in rural areas and having had a fever in the previous two weeks. Conclusion:In Zambia, about a third of under-five children who slept under insecticide-treated nets still had evidence of malaria infection. Asignificant risk factor for malaria infection among the under-five children who slept under ITNs was anaemia. Other known risk factors for malaria among under-five children such as age, rural residence, wealth status, province of residence and education of guardians were not statistically significant.

Sepsis et choc septique en réanimation à Brazzaville (Congo) / Sepsis and septic shock in polyvalent intensive care at Brazzaville (Congo)

Objectifs. Décrire les aspects cliniques, bactériologiques et évolutifs du sepsis et du choc septique dans le service de réanimation polyvalente du CHUB. Patients et méthodes. Il s'agit d'une étude transversale, monocentrique et descriptive, durant 12 mois, incluant les patients âgés d'au moins 18 ans admis en réanimation polyvalente pour un sepsis ou choc septique. Les variables épidémiologiques, cliniques, bactériologiques et évolutives ont été analysées avec Excel 2019. Résultats. 56 patients ont été retenus (20,7%). Leur âge moyen était de 43,1 ± 17,9 ans (extrêmes de 18 et 84 ans), avec 66,1% des hommes. Le foyer infectieux initial était péritonéal (64,3 %). À l'admission, le nombre médian de défaillances d'organes par patient était de trois (maximum 5). Les défaillances rénale (71,4%), hépatique (69,6%) et hémodynamique (62,5%) étaient les plus représentées. Le taux de réalisation du bilan bactériologique était de 35,7% : hémoculture (10,7%), uroculture (14,3%), porte d'entrée infectieuse (7,1%). La durée d'hospitalisation des patients sortis vivants était de 8,1 ± 6,3 jours (extrêmes de 2 et 31 jours). Le taux de mortalité était de 57,1%. Les décès survenaient au-delà de 24 h d'hospitalisation (75%), chez des patients avec comorbidités (65,6%), porte d'entrée péritonéale (59,4%), et défaillances hémodynamique (81,2%) et rénale (75%). Conclusion. Les prévalences du sepsis et du choc septique dans notre série sont superposables à celles de la littérature. Le taux de réalisation des bilans bactériologiques reste faible. La mortalité du sepsis demeure très élevée.

Introduction. No accurate data on sepsis and septic shock in intensive care unit (ICU) in the Republic of Congo are available. The aim of the study was to describe the course of patients with sepsis and/or septic shock in the polyvalent ICU of the University Teaching Hospital of Brazzaville. Patients and methods. This was a cross-sectional, monocentric and descriptive study, lasting 12 months, including patients aged at least 18 years admitted to ICU for sepsis or septic shock. The clinical presentation, the bacteriological findings and the outcome were analyzed with Excel 2019. Results. 56 patients were selected (20.7%). The average age was 43.1 ± 17.9 years (extremes 18 and 84 years), with 66.1% of men. The initial infection was peritoneal (64.3%). At admission, the median number of organ failures per patient was three (maximum 5). Renal (71.4%), hepatic (69.6%) and hemodynamic (62.5%) failures were the most common. Bacteriological assessment rate was 35.7%: blood culture (10.7%), urine culture (14.3%). The duration of hospitalization of alive patients was 8.1 ± 6.3 days (extremes 2 and 31 days). The mortality rate was 57.1%. Deaths occurred beyond 24 hours of hospitalization (75%), in patients with comorbidities (65.6%), peritonitis (59.4%), hemodynamic (81.2%) and renal (75%) failures. Conclusion. The prevalence of sepsis and septic shock in our study is comparable to other published series. The bacteriological assessments rate is still low. The mortality is very high.

Assessment of the effect of treatment on the quality of life of adult Keloid

Background: Documentations of the effect of treatment on the quality of life of keloid patients are few. This study assessedimprovement in quality-of-lifefollowing keloid treatment. In addition, to assess which of the offered four modalities of treatment improved quality of life more.Methods:Thisquasi-experimentalstudy was conducted on 32 adults who had treatment for keloid disease in the clinic from February 2019 to January 2020. This was part of a comparative study of four different modalities of keloid treatment. The quality of life was assessed before and after treatment using the Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire (DLQI). Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.0Results:Quality of life significantly improved after treatment with the mean ± SD DLQI score improving from 7.75 ± 6.15 to 4.16 ± 4.93, p=0.001. Quality of life before treatment was impaired in 93.7% and improved to 65.6%. Before treatment, 2 patients had no QOLimpairment but this improved to 11 patients after treatment. Prior to treatment, severely impaired QOLwas in recorded 28.1% of thepatient's and in 9.4% after treatment. Quality of life improved more in patients who had the combined intralesional triamcinolone acetonide and 5-flourouracil treatment. Significant improvement in the DLQI items of symptomatology, embarrassment, social activity and choice of clothing was noted.Conclusion:Treatment of keloid improves quality of life and this is dependent on the modality of treatment. The items of quality of life improved include; embarrassment, choice of clothing, interference with socialactivities, symptoms of pain and pruritus.

Dixième épidémie d'Ebola en République Démocratique du Congo: défis majeurs relevés dans la prise en charge médicale / Tenth Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of the Congo: major challenges in health care management

Identifié depuis 1976, le filovirus Ebola est la cause d´une maladie caractérisée principalement par un syndrome grippale inaugural avec une fièvre quasi permanente suivi des signes digestifs: diarrhée, vomissement à la base de la déshydratation. La mort survient souvent dans un tableau de défaillance multi-viscérale (insuffisance hépatorénale, encéphalopathie voire, trouble de coagulation). Le taux de mortalité est compris entre 50 et 90%. Traditionnellement, les malades suspects et confirmés à Ebola étaient isolés dans des tentes pour un traitement essentiellement symptomatique avec utilisation fort limitée des actes invasifs. Les mesures de prévention n´étaient faites que de respect des mesures d´hygiène. Chez les personnels soignants, le taux de contamination était de 76% lors de la première épidémie de Yambuku. Au fil du temps, des mesures de prise en charge se sont améliorées par l´utilisation du vaccin, une réanimation appropriée, traitement spécifique au filovirus et l´utilisation des CUBE (chambre d´urgence biosécurisée pour epidémie).

Identified in 1976, Ebola virus, a member of the Filoviridae family (filovirus), can cause a disease mainly characterized by inaugural influenza-like syndrome with almost permanent fever followed by gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting causing dehydration. Death often occurs as a result of multi-system organ failure (hepatorenal failure, encephalopathy or even blood clotting disorders). Mortality rate is between 50 and 90%. Traditionally, patients with suspected and diagnosed Ebola were isolated in tents for essentially symptomatic treatment with very limited use of invasive procedures. Prevention consisted of measures aimed at respecting hygiene. Among caregivers,infection rate was 76% during the first Yambuku outbreak. Over time, management measures have been improved by the use of the vaccine, appropriate resuscitation techniques, specific treatment for filovirus and the use of BECUO (Biosecure Emergency Care Unit for Outbreaks).

Etiologies des fièvres prolongées inexpliquées au Service de Médecine Interne du CHU de Bouaké (Côte d'Ivoire) / Causes of unexplained prolonged fever in the Bouake CHU Internal Medicine Department (Ivory Coast)

Objectif : déterminer les étiologies des fièvres prolongées inexpliquées au service de médecine interne du CHU de Bouaké. Matériel et méthodes : Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective à visée descriptive mené de janvier 2019 à décembre 2020. Nous avons inclus les patients hospitalisés pour fièvre prolongée inexpliquée ou ayant présentés une fièvre prolongée durant l'hospitalisation. Les données anamnestiques, cliniques et paracliniques ont été analysées. Résultats : Nous avons retenus 204 patients sur 1650 patients hospitalisés (12,6%). L'âge moyen des patients était de 32±16,1 ans avec des extrêmes de 16 et 87 ans. Le sexe ratio était de 1,1. La fièvre (32,4%) et AEG (22%) constituaient les motifs d'hospitalisation les plus fréquents. La fièvre était le plus fréquent des symptômes physiques (94,1%) suivi de l'amaigrissement (50%), de la déshydratation (18,1%), de l'hépatomégalie (12,7%) et de l'obnubilation (12%). Les principales étiologies étaient les infections (82,3%), les tumeurs (10,3%), et les maladies inflammatoires (1,5%). Dans 5,9% des cas l'étiologie n'avait pas été retrouvée. Les principales infections étaient le VIH et ses complications (38,1%), la tuberculose (21,4%), et les infections urogénitales (19,9%). Les tumeurs étaient dominées par le cancer primitif du foie (33,4%) et le cancer de la prostate (19,4%). La polyarthrite rhumatoïde, le lupus érythémateux disséminé et la sclérodermie étaient maladies inflammatoires retrouvées. La létalité était de 36%. Conclusion : Les étiologies des fièvres prolongées inexpliquées sont variées. Elles sont dominées dans notre contexte par la tuberculose, l'infection à VIH et ses complications infectieuses.

Interêt du score d'Alvarado dans la prise en charge de l'appendicite aiguë au centre hospitalier universitaire Sourô Sanou de Bobo Dioulasso / interest of score d'Alvarado in the management of acute appendicitis at the Sourô Sanou university teaching hospital in Bobo Dioulasso

Le but de ce travail était d'appliquer le score d'Alvarado et d'évaluer son intérêt dans la prise en charge des patients suspects d'appendicite aigue. Patients et méthodes : Il s'est agi d'une étude transversale à visée descriptive allant du 1er janvier 2019 au 31 Mars 2021, incluant les patients admis pour suspicion d'appendicite aiguë. Résultats : Notre étude a porté sur 152 patients avec un sex-ratio de 1,7, une moyenne d'âge de 28,6 ans. Le score d'Alvarado était supérieur ou égal à 7 chez 65,8 % des patients, compris entre 4 et 7 chez 31 %, et inférieur à 4 chez 3,3 %. Pour un score compris entre 7 et 10, les données de performance du score sont de 71,5 %, 86,7 %, 98 %, 2 % et 5,1 pour la sensibilité, la spécificité, la valeur prédictive positive, la valeur prédictive négative, et le rapport de vraisemblance positif respectivement. Parmi les patients, 124 ont réalisé une échographie abdominale, 145 ont été opérés, 137 avaient un diagnostic final d'appendicite aigue. Quinze patients n'avaient pas une appendicite aigue et le taux d'appendicectomie sur appendicite sain était de 5,5%. Conclusion : le score d'Alvarado permet de réduire les hospitalisations, les examens d'imagerie et le délai de prise en charge dans les appendicites aiguës.

The aim of this work was to apply the Alvarado score and to evaluate its interest in the management of patients suspected of acute appendicitis. Patients and methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study from January 1, 2019 to March 31, 2021, including patients admitted for suspected acute appendicitis. Results: Our study involved 152 patients with a sex ratio of 1.7, an average age of 28.6 years. The Alvarado score was greater than or equal to 7 in 65.8% of patients, between 4 and 7 in 31%, and less than 4 in 3.3%. For a score between 7 and 10, the score performance data are 71.5%, 86.7%, 98%, 2% and 5.1 for sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and the positive likelihood ratio respectively. Among the patients, 124 performed an abdominal ultrasound, 145 were operated, 137 had a final diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Fifteen patients did not have acute appendicitis and the white laparotomy rate was 5.5%. Conclusion: the Alvarado score reduces hospitalizations, imaging examinations and the time to treatment in acute appendicitis.

Assessment of clinical profiles, and treatment outcomes for children with diabetic ketoacidosis, in two hospitals selected from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2020

Type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM)is a common autoimmune disorder that often presents in children. In these patients, diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA)is one of the most common and serious acute complications, which isassociated with significant morbidity and mortality. The study aimed to assess the clinical profilesand outcomesof children admitted with DKA.Objective:To assess the clinical manifestationsand treatment outcomesof DKA patients in two tertiary hospitals in Addis Ababa. Methods: A hospital-based retrospective analysis was conductedon175 pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis children, who wereadmitted to the emergency units of two hospitalsin Addis Ababafrom September 2015 to February 2020andwhose medical records contained complete pertinent data. Patients were between theages of0 to 12 years.Proportional samples were taken from each hospitaland data wascollected retrospectively using a formatted checklist. The data waschecked for its inclusiveness and enteredEpi Info. version4.6 andthen transferred into SPSS version 25 software for further analysis. Result:DKA was the presenting manifestation of Diabetes in 78.3% of patients and 21.7% were already known cases of Diabetes. Half (50.9%) of the study participants were diagnosed with DKA in the age range of 5 to 10 years and almost one-third (30.9%) were abovethe age of 10. A high-incomelevel of the caretakers wasfound to be protective against DKA during thediagnosis of T1DM. Out of the 175 children admitted, 12 passed on, resulting ina mortality rate of 6.9%.Conclusion: The majority of the known DM patients presented with DKA after the omission of insulin and a newly diagnosed T1DMat first presentation.The age of presentation and clinical symptoms of the studied participantswere likeother international studies. Community education regardingthe signs and symptoms of childhood DM can further prevent the development of DKA.[Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 2022; 36(2):000-000]Keywords: Diabetic ketoacidosis, Treatment outcome, and precipitating factors

Managing acute opioid withdrawal with tramadol during COVID-19 lockdown in a peri-urban setting

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has highlighted the scope of heroin dependence and need for evidence-based treatment amongst marginalised people in South Africa. Acute opioid withdrawal management without maintenance therapy carries risks of increased morbidity and mortality. Due to the high costs of methadone, Tshwane's Community Oriented Substance Use Programme (COSUP) used tramadol for opioid withdrawal management during the initial COVID-19 response. Aim: To describe demographics, route of heroin administration and medication-related experiences amongst people accessing tramadol for treatment of opioid withdrawal.Setting: Three community-based COSUP sites in Mamelodi (Tshwane, South Africa). Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered paper-based tool between April and August 2020. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. Results: Of the 220 service users initiated onto tramadol, almost half (n = 104, 47%) were not contactable. Fifty-eight (26%) people participated, amongst whom most were male (n = 55, 95%). Participants' median age was 32 years. Most participants injected heroin (n = 36, 62.1%). Most participants experienced at least one side effect (n = 47, 81%) with 37 (64%) experiencing two or more side effects from tramadol. Insomnia occurred most frequently (n = 26, 45%). One person without a history of seizures experienced a seizure. Opioid withdrawal symptoms were experienced by 54 participants (93%) whilst taking tramadol. Over half (n = 38, 66%) reported using less heroin whilst on tramadol. Conclusion: Tramadol reduced heroin use but was associated with withdrawal symptoms and unfavourable side effects. Findings point to the limitations of tramadol as opioid withdrawal management to retain people in care and the importance of access to first-line opioid agonists.

Aspects cliniques et thérapeutiques du diabète de l'enfant à Ngaoundéré (Cameroun) / Clinical presentation and management of childhood diabetes at Ngaoundere City (Cameroon)

Objectif. L'étude visait à évaluer les aspects cliniques et thérapeutiques des enfants diabétiques suivis à l'hôpital régional de Ngaoundéré. Méthodes. Il s'agissait d'une étude transversale rétrospective descriptive conduite du 15 avril au 10 juillet 2021 à l'unité Changing Diabetes In Children (CDIC) de l'Hôpital Régional de Ngaoundéré. Les données sociodémographiques (l'âge, le sexe, la scolarité, la religion), cliniques (indice de masse corporelle, signes cliniques, antécédents familiaux, circonstance de découverte, complications du diabète, durée de la maladie) et thérapeutiques de 26 enfants diabétiques âgés de 8 à 20 ans et régulièrement suivis dans cette unité ont été analysées. Résultats. La population d'étude était constituée de 14 filles (53,8%) et de 12 garçons (46,2%). Les symptômes les plus fréquents observés étaient la polyurie (34,6%), l'amaigrissement et la polydipsie (38,5%). Les complications les plus fréquentes étaient, l'acidocétose (19,2%) lié à l'hyperglycémie chronique et l'hypoglycémie (57,7%) lié au traitement par insulinothérapie. En guise de traitement, 96,1% de ces patients étaient sous un schéma thérapeutique associant au quotidien une injection d'insuline d'action rapide (Actrapid) à deux injections d'insuline d'action intermédiaire (Insulatard ou Mixtard). Le taux moyen d'hémoglobine glyquée (9,27 ± 3,38%) traduisait un mauvais contrôle glycémique dans cette population. La proportion des patients contrôlés, c'est-à-dire, ceux qui avaient un taux d'hémoglobine glyquée inférieure ou égale à 7%, était plus faible chez les garçons (25%) comparés aux filles (42,9%). Conclusion. Nos données interpellent les différents acteurs impliqués dans la prise en charge du diabète de l'enfant, sur la nécessité d'amélioré la qualité de cette prise en charge

Objective. The study aimed at assessing the clinical and therapeutic aspects of diabetic children under follow-up at the Ngaoundere Regional Hospital. Methods. This was a descriptive retrospective cross-sectional study conducted from April 15 to July 10, 2021, at the Changing Diabetes In Children (CDIC) unit of the Ngaoundéré Regional Hospital. Sociodemographic data (age, sex, education, religion), clinical data (body mass index, clinical signs, family history, circumstance of discovery, complications of diabetes, duration of the disease), and therapeutic data of 26 diabetic children aged 8 to 20 and regularly followed in this unit were analyzed. Results. Our study population consisted of 14 girls (53.8%) and 12 boys (46.2%). The most common symptoms observed were polyuria (34.6%), weight loss, and polydipsia (38.5%). The most common complications were ketoacidosis (19.2%) related to chronic hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia (57.7%) related to insulin therapy. By way of treatment, 96.1% of these patients were on a therapeutic regimen combining a daily injection of fast-acting insulin (Actrapid) and two injections of intermediate-acting insulin (Insulatard or Mixtard). The average level of glycated hemoglobin (9.27 ± 3.38%) reflected poor glycemic control in this population. The proportion of controlled patients, that is to say, those who had a glycated hemoglobin level less than or equal to 7%, was lower in boys (25%) compared to girls (42.9%). Conclusion. Our data challenge the various actors involved in the management of childhood diabetes, on the need to improve the quality of this care.

The prevalence and correlates of anxiety and depression amongst essential workers during the COVID-19 lockdown in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Background: Essential workers are imperative in the fight against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Aim: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with anxiety and depression among essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. Setting: This study was set in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Method: This was a cross-sectional study involving essential workers in Ekiti State Nigeria, during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. A total of 588 essential workers were sampled. Online socio-demographic variables and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, a 14 item self-reported questionnaire were used. Results: The prevalence of anxiety and depression among the respondents was 93.4% (CI = 91.2­95.2) and 64.3% (CI = 60.4­68.4) respectively. Among the health workers, the prevalence of anxiety and depression were 96.5% (CI =94.8­98.1) and 66.5% (CI = 60.5­69.8) respectively while the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms among non- health workers were 84.6% (CI = 78.7­90.1) and 61.5% (CI = 54.2­69.4) respectively. The odds ratio (OR) of depressive symptoms was increased among, respondents who were not satisfied with the support they received from the government during the pandemic (AOR = 2.071, CI = 1.350­2.213), respondents that were 35 years and younger (AOR = 1.512, CI = 1.033­2.213) and reduced amongst Christians (AOR = 0.501, CI = 0.286­0.879). The odd of anxiety was increased among health workers compared to non-health workers (AOR = 3.700, CI = 1.744­7.851) and the odds of anxiety was reduced among respondents with previous history of mental illness (AOR = 0.215, CI = 0.049­0.943). Conclusion: Anxiety and depressive symptoms were common mental illness among essential workers working during the COVID-19 lockdown, therefore their mental health should be adequately considered to sustain the fight against the virus.

Syndrome d'apnées-hypopnées obstructives du sommeil: état des lieux des connaissances et de la pratique des médecins généralistes dans la ville de Kinshasa / Apneas-obstructive sleep hypopneas syndrome: state of the knowledge and practice of generalist physicians in the city of Kinshasa

Contexte et objectif. Le syndrome d'apnées hypopnées obstructives du sommeil (SAHOS) est une pathologie fréquente, mais méconnue. L'objectif de cette enquête était d'évaluer les connaissances ainsi que les habitudes diagnostique et thérapeutique des médecins généralistes (MG) vis-à-vis le SAHOS. Méthodes. Etude transversale, déclarative, observationnelle menée auprès des MG de la ville de Kinshasa, à partir d'un questionnaire anonyme n'ayant pas précisé au préalable l'objet de l'étude. Les réponses aux questions et le nombre des répondants sont exprimés en fréquence et en pourcentage. Résultats. Sur 177 MG ayant répondu au questionnaire, près de 70% avaient obtenu leur diplôme après l'année 2009. Le cursus universitaire avait été la principale source d'information. La majorité des MG de l'enquête (62%) n'était pas familiarisée avec le SAHOS. Les symptômes cardinaux (ronflements, apnées nocturnes, somnolence diurne) avaient été cités par plus de moitié des MG mais sans leur donner de signification réelle dans leur pratique médicale. L'obésité a été largement citée comme un facteur associé au SAHOS par 68 % de MG, cependant les autres facteurs ont été méconnus ou à peine cités. Plus de la moitié des MG (54,2 %) ne connaissait pas les répercussions et les complications des apnées nocturnes sur l'individu et son environnement. La polysomnographie comme examen clé du SAHOS avait été citée par 56 % des MG. Le niveau des connaissances révélé par l'ensemble des résultats s'est avéré globalement faible. Conclusion. Le SAHOS est une pathologie fréquente, méconnue et très peu intégrée dans les pratiques professionnelles médicales à Kinshasa. Cette situation appelle un approfondissement de la formation des médecins par l'enseignement universitaire et la formation médicale continue

Context and objective. Obstructive sleep apneahypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a frequent pathology. The objective was to assess the knowledge as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic habits of general practitioners (GPs) concerning the OSAHS. Methods. A crosssectional, observational study was conducted among GPs using an anonymous questionnaire that did not specify the purpose of the study beforehand. Results. Out of 177 GPs who answered the questionnaire, almost 70 % had graduated after 2009. University education had been the main source of information. The majority of GPs in the survey (62%) were not familiar with OSAHS. Cardinal symptoms of OSAHS (snoring, nocturnal apnea, daytime sleepiness) had been cited by more than half of GPs but without giving them any real significance in their medical practice. Half of them had never discussed the diagnosis of OSAHS with their patients. Obesity was widely cited as a factor associated with OSAHS by 68% of GPs, however other factors were either unrecognized or barely mentioned. More than half of GPs (54.2%) did not know the repercussions and complications of night apnea on the individual and his environment. Polysomnography as a key examination for OSAHS was cited by 56% of GPs. The existence of care was also indicated by a large number of them (87%) but without knowing the terms. Conclusion. OSAHS is a pathology affecting the population of Kinshasa, but little integrated into professional medical practices. Its cardinal symptoms, complications and diagnostic and therapeutic modalities are little known to GPs. This situation calls for further training of doctors through university education and continuing medical education.

Endométriose et supplémentation nutritionnelle: une revue de littérature / Endometriosis and nutritional supplementation : a literature review

Contexte et objectif. L'endométriose est une maladie gynécologique caractérisée par la présence des glandes et du stroma endométrial en dehors de la cavité utérine. Elle serait influencée par la nutrition. Cette maladie touche 10 à 15 % des femmes en âge de procréer et a comme composante essentielle l'inflammation chronique. Les symptômes les plus fréquents sont la douleur et l'infertilité. La littérature actuelle fait état des effets bénéfiques des aliments antiinflammatoires et antioxydants sur l'endométriose. L'objectif de la présente mini revue est d'établir des pistes de réflexion sur le bénéfice d'une supplémentation nutritionnelle dans l'endométriose. Méthodes. Nous avons effectué une recherche avec les bases de données de Pubmed, Cinahl, Cochrane Library et Embase pour identifier les articles et essais cliniques randomisés dont sept ont été retenus pour l'analyse. Résultats. La supplémentation en souches probiotiques, en vitamine E et en vitamine C a une influence positive sur les symptômes liés à l'endométriose. De plus, un ensemble des composés contenant des vitamines, sels minéraux, ferments lactiques et oméga 3 et 6 ainsi qu'une alimentation de type anti-inflammatoire et les aliments pauvres en glucides fermentés cibles auraient également une influence positive sur les symptômes. En revanche, la vitamine n'aurait aucun effet significatif. Conclusion. Une prise en charge nutritionnelle, notamment axée sur une supplémentation en antioxydants, anti-inflammatoires et en souches probiotiques constitue une piste prometteuse pour la prise en charge de l'endométriose

Context and objective. Endometriosis is a gynecological disease which is characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity and might be influenced by nutrition. It affects 10 to 15 % of women of childbearing age and has chronic inflammation as an essential component. The most common symptoms are pain and infertility. Current literature reports the beneficial effects of antiinflammatory and antioxidant foods on endometriosis. The present paper reviews the benefits of nutritional supplementation in endometriosis. Methods. A search was performed using the Pubmed, Cinahl, Cochrane Library and Embase database engines to identify articles and randomized clinical trials, of which seven were selected for analysis. Results. Supplementation with probiotic strains, vitamin E and vitamin C has a positive influence on the symptoms associated with endometriosis. In addition, a set of compounds containing vitamins, minerals, lactic ferments and omega 3 and 6 as well as an antiinflammatory type diet and foods low in fermentable carbohydrates would also have a positive influence on the symptoms. In contrast, vitamin D did not have any significant effect. Conclusion. Nutritional management, in particular focusing on supplementation with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory drugs and probiotic strains, is a promising avenue for the management of endometriosis.