Diagnostic value of spinal ultrasound: a comparative study with magnetic resonance imaging in infants with spinal dysraphism

Spinal dysraphism refers to abnormalities with imperfect fusion of midline neural and bony structures of the spine. It is the most common congenital central nervous system abnormality, with myelomeningoceles occurring in up to 2 per 1000 live births. Aim of the work: this study aimed to assess the diagnostic value of spinal ultrasonography in pediatrics patients with spinal dysraphism. This study was carried out on 30 infants with clinically diagnosed or suspected spinal dysraphism who were referred by the Neurosurgery Department or outpatient clinic to the Radiology Department at Alexandria University Hospital over the period from May 2004 to April 2005. Ultrasonography findings were correlated with those of MRL The degree of agreement between both modalities was determined and rated as full, partial, or no consensus. Total consensus was achieved in 24 of 30 examinations. Partial consensus was achieved in six examinations with US showing main spinal anomaly but not additional details depicted by MRL There was ho significant difference between US and MRl results in diagnosing of the main spinal anomalies. So we concluded that ultrasound is a valuable tool for the diagnosis of congenital malformations in infancy especially in patients younger than six months of age

Study of drug dependence among industrial workers in one of the factories in Alexandria

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of drug dependence among industrial workers in one of the factories in Alexandria and to identify the type of drug used among them. A total sample of 200 industrial workers from one of oil and soap factories were chosen by a multistage sampling procedure. The data needed was collected by using an interviewing questionnaire. Also a fresh urine sample was collected from every worker included in the study for screening of psychoactive drugs [amphetamines, benzodiazipines, barbiturates and opiates]. The main results showed that the prevalence rate of drug dependence among industrial male workers was [4%] and for females was [0%]. The most common psychoactive drug used was barbiturates [87.5%]. The drug dependent was significantly more encountered among unskilled workers [100%] and in those of large families [87.5%]. Moreover, a significant relation was found among drug dependent industrial workers who gave history of psychological problems [87.5%] or history of absenteeism