Frequency of kidney dysfunction in patients with acute stroke and the relationship with the type, severity and outcome.

Background/Aim: Kidney dysfunction is an established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases including stroke. The study aimed at assessing the frequency of kidney dysfunction in patients with acute stroke and to evaluate the relationship to the type, severity and outcome of stroke. To establish a relationship, which has not been explained in past studies. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study on acute stroke patients and matched controls, evaluating for kidney dysfunction using both estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and the spot urine protein creatinine ratio. The type of stroke was observed by neuroimaging. The National Institute of Health Stroke Score was used to assess the severity of stroke at presentation and outcome after 7 days. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) application version 23.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: : Ninety-eight patients and 100 controls were recruited, with a mean age of 64.7 ± 15.5 and 64.8 ± 15.1 years, respectively. The patients with stroke had a statistically significant higher frequency of kidney dysfunction compared to the controls (85.9% vs. 62.0%, P ≤ 0.001). Patients with haemorrhagic stroke had a higher frequency of kidney dysfunction compared with those with ischaemic stroke (93.8% vs. 77.3%, P = 0.048). The proportion of patients with kidney dysfunction was seen to increase from those with mild to those with severe stroke symptoms, both at presentation and after 7 days. Estimated GFR was seen to be an independent predictor of poor outcome in patients with stroke (odds ratio 0.955, 95% confidence interval 0.924 - 0.986, P = 0.005). Conclusion: The study demonstrated that in patients with acute stroke there is a high frequency of kidney dysfunction. Haemorrhagic stroke, increasing stroke severity and poor outcome were seen to be associated with kidney dysfunction. Thus, recommending the need for kidney care as an important part of stroke management.

Normative references of fetal chest circumference in a Nigerian population

A linear relationship between gestational age and fetal thoracic size has been observed, with growth occurring at a regular rate from 16 to 40 weeks.Objective: To determine the fetal chest circumference in normal late second and third-trimester pregnancies in a Nigerian population.Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out on gravid women with normal singleton pregnancies at 22 ­ 38 weeks gestational age. We recruited 440 eligible gravid women. The fetal gestational age was estimated from the last menstrual period and an early first trimester ultrasound report (< 10 weeks). The fetal chest circumference was measured on an axial view of the fetal chest after ensuring adequate visualisation of the four cardiac chambers, both fetal lungs and ribs. The other fetal biometric parameters were determined using the previously established guidelines. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and regression analysis were used as appropriate. Statistical tests were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05.Results: The mean age of the subjects was 29.8 ± 4.6 years (range = 18-45 years). The chest circumference of the fetuses ranged from 16.56 ± 0.29 cm to 30.87 ± 6.88 cm. The fetal chest circumferences increased with advancing gestational age (16.56 ± 0.29 cm at 22 weeks to 30.87 ± 6.88 cm at 37 weeks gestational age). There was strong positive correlation between chest circumference and menstrual gestational age (r=0.85, p=<0.0001), biparietal diameter (r=0.88, p<0.0001), abdominal circumference (r=0.90, p<0.0001) and fetal length (r=0.88, p<0.0001).Conclusion: The fetal chest circumference grew as the pregnancy progressed. There was a positive linear correlation between fetal chest circumference and menstrual gestational age as well as the other fetal biometric parameters.

Urinary Transforming Growth Factor-Beta 1 (uTGF-ß1) and Prevalent CKD Risk in HIV-Positive Patients in West Africa.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigated the association of urinary transforming growth factor-ß1 (uTGF-ß1) with prevalent chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the HIV-infected population. METHODS: HIV-positive patients without CKD (HIV+CKD-, n = 194) and 114 with CKD (HIV+CKD+) who did not have hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or hepatitis B or C, had their urinary protein-creatinine ratio (uPCR), serum transforming growth factor (TGF)-ß1, and uTGF-ß1 measured. uTGF-ß1-creatinine ratios (uTGF-ß1Cr) were calculated. Spearman correlation was used to determine the association between uTGF-ß1Cr and various attributes, and the Cuzick trend test was used to assess the presence of a linear trend in median uTGF-ß1Cr levels across the stages of CKD. Multivariable robust linear regression models were used to assess independent association with variability in uTGF-ß1Cr and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels. RESULTS: The age of the participants was 38.3 ± 10.3 years with 73.4% women. The median uTGF-ß1Cr was higher among HIV+CKD+ (4.85 ng/mmol [25th-75th percentile 1.96-12.35] vs. 2.95 [1.02-5.84]; P = 0.001]). There was significant correlation between uTGF-ß1Cr and age (P = 0.02), eGFR (P = 0.001), and uPCR (P < 0.001) in the HIV+CKD+ group. Among the HIV+CKD+ patients, there was gradual reduction in the median level of uTGF-ß1Cr with CKD severity (P = 0.04). HIV+CKD+ patients had significantly higher levels of uTGF-ß1Cr after controlling for potential confounders. Using eGFR as dependent variable, proteinuria explained the changes associated with uTGF-ß1Cr levels. CONCLUSION: HIV+CKD+ patients express higher levels of uTGF-ß1 especially in the early stages of CKD apparently related to proteinuria levels.

Renal risk profiling in newly diagnosed hypertensives in an urban population in Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is a cause and consequence of chronic kidney disease globally. The other factors that work in concert with hypertension to cause CKD are yet to be clearly elucidated. Studies have identified proteinuria, dyslipidemia, obesity, smoking and family history of CKD as renal risk factors. Due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with occurrence of CKD including the enormous financial burden involved in its management, the knowledge of prevention and understanding of the risk factors for development of CKD is highly essential. Therefore, Identifying well defined risk factors that display strong graded association with the occurrence and progression of CKD can help in elucidating potential targets for disease modification. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of renal risk factors and their impact on kidney function in newly diagnosed hypertensive Nigerians. METHODS: This was a case control study of two hundred and fifty newly diagnosed hypertensive Nigerians recruited from two contiguous hospitals in an urban setting in south western Nigeria. Another group of two hundred and fifty apparently healthy age and sex matched normotensive Nigerians in the same community were recruited as controls. RESULTS: Seventy (28%) of the newly diagnosed hypertensives had estimated glomerular filtration rate of less than 60ml/min, while 42.4% and 18.8% of the subjects and the controls had microalbuminuria respectively. The newly diagnosed hypertensives had significantly higher prevalence of analgesic use (86.4% versus 41.6%, p < 0.001), alcohol consumption (20.8% versus 12%, p = 0.008), use of canned salted food (18.8% versus 8.4%, p= 0.001) and central obesity (36.1% versus 26.8%, p= 0.025) compared to controls. CONCLUSION: There is a significant occurrence of modifiable renal risk factors in newly diagnosed hypertensives and this offers a platform for instituting preventive strategies in the community.

The impact of acne and facial post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on quality of life and self-esteem of newly admitted Nigerian undergraduates.

BACKGROUND: Acne and facial post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are relatively common clinical conditions among adolescents and young adults, and inflict psychosocial injuries on sufferers. OBJECTIVE: To document the psychosocial and self-esteem implications of acne and facial hyperpigmentation on newly admitted undergraduates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 undergraduates. Demographics and clinical characteristics were obtained and acne was graded using the US Food and Drug Administration 5-category global system of acne classification. Participants completed the Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES), and data were analyzed using SPSS 20. RESULTS: Mean age of acne onset was 16.24 ± 3.32 years. There were 168 (84.0%) cases categorized as almost clear, 24 (12.0%) as mild acne, 4 (2.0%) as moderate acne and 4 (2.0%) as severe acne. Acne with facial hyperpigmentation, compared to acne without hyperpigmentation, was associated with significant level of anxiety in 30 participants (26.5% vs 10.3%, p=0.004) and emotional distress in 40 (35.4% vs 10.3%, p<0.001). Acne severity correlated with total CADI score but not with total RSES score. Quality of life (QoL) was significantly reduced among acne patients with facial hyperpigmentation (1.77±1.62, vs 1.07±1.02, p<0.001) compared to those without hyperpigmentation. Acne and facial hyperpigmentation was associated with social life interference, avoidance of public facilities, poor body image and self-esteem and perception of worse disease. There was no association between gender and QoL but acne was related to a reduction of self-worth. Low self-esteem was present in 1.5%, and severe acne was associated with an occasional feeling of uselessness in the male gender. CONCLUSION: Acne with facial hyperpigmentation induces poorer QoL and self-esteem is impaired only in severe acne. Beyond the medical treatment of acne, dermatologists should routinely assess the QoL and give attention to treatment of facial post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation among people of color.

Clustering of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular risk factors in South-West Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: There exists a synergy between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) with increased morbidity and poor outcomes. OBJECTIVES: Data relating to this clustering in black homogenous populations is scanty. We aim to investigate this relationship in Nigerian communities. PATIENTS AND METHODS: It was a cross-sectional observation study from semi-urban communities in South-West Nigeria. We used modified World Health Organization (WHO) questionnaire on chronic diseases (WHO STEPS) to gather information on socio-demographic data, biophysical and clinical characteristics. Biochemical analysis of plasma samples was done. RESULTS: We analyzed data of 1084 with mean age of 56.3 ± 19.9 years (33.4% female). Prevalence of stage 3 CKD was 14.2% (3a and 3b were 10.3% and 3% respectively). Prevalence of hypertension (systolic and diastolic blood pressure) and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) increased as clustering of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors (CVFRs) increased both in CKD and proteinuria (P < 0.05). CKD prevalence increases with number of risk factors. There was an inverse relationship between increasing risk factors and mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (P < 0.05). Clustering at least 2 CVRFs in the population with CKD compared to those without CKD was significantly higher (76.6% vs. 65.1%, OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2-2.6, P = 0.005). Similarly, in a univariate analysis, albuminuria had an increased odds of clustering (69.7% vs. 59.6%, OR: 1.9, 95% CI 0.6-6.2, P = 0.409). Using multivariate logistic analysis, there is significantly increased odds of clustering when eGFR is <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.12-6.32) and microalbuminuria 1.74 (95% CI: 1.10-2.75). CONCLUSIONS: Reduced kidney function and proteinuria significantly clustered with CVRFs. This data suggests that individuals with CV clusters should be screened for CKD or vice versa and they should be considered for prompt management of their CVRFs.

Comparison of Neuropsychological Patterns in Nigerians with different Heart Failure Phenotypes.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of left ventricular dysfunction type on the pattern of neuropsychological dysfunctions among heart failure (HF) subjects. METHOD: A sub-analysis of the data of subjects recruited in a cross-sectional survey of cognitive dysfunction among Nigerians with HF was performed. Cognitive performance on the Community Screening Interview for Dementia (CSI'D), Word List Learning Delayed Recall (WLLDR), Boston Naming Test (BNT), and Modified Token Test (MTT) were compared between heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Clinical and echocardiographic correlation analysis with cognitive performance was performed. RESULTS: Subjects with HFpEF were impaired on the WLLDR (71.4% vs. 34.6%, p = .026). The group with HFpEF scored lower on the language domain (definition subscale) of CSI'D (p = .036), and WLLDR (p = .005). The performance on the MTT (p = .185) and BNT (p = .923) were comparable between the two groups. An inverse relationship was found between pulse pressure and delay recall (r = -.565 p = .003) among the cohort with HFpEF whereas body mass index, BMI (r = -.737, p = .023) and tricuspid valve E/A ratio, TVEA (r = -.650, p = .042) showed an inverse relationship with the total CSI'D score in the cohort with HFrEF. CONCLUSIONS: Cognitive dysfunction is largely similar between the two groups. Delay recall is however poorer among subjects with HFpEF. Regular cognitive screening is advocated among HF subjects to prevent non-adherence with therapeutic options.

Profile and Determinants of Neurocognitive Dysfunction in a Sample of Adult Nigerians With Heart Failure.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) in Africans is peculiar because subjects are younger than whites and have lower socioeconomic and educational level in addition to the high prevalence of hypertension-related etiology and increased mortality. Whereas cognitive dysfunction have been demonstrated among whites with HF, the prevalence and pattern of cognitive dysfunction among sub-Saharan African patients with HF have not been evaluated against this background. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to determine the 1-year prevalence and the factors contributing to cognitive dysfunction in a cohort of Nigerian patients with HF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional case-control study, cognitive performance was evaluated in 111 consecutive individuals (60 HF patients and 51 controls matched for age, gender, and level of education) using the Community Screening Interview for Dementia, Word List Learning Delayed Recall, Boston Naming Test, and Modified Token Test. Other clinical and disease-specific variables were collated and correlated with cognitive performance. RESULTS: The mean total Community Screening Interview for Dementia, Word List Learning Delayed Recall, Boston Naming Test, and Modified Token Test scores were significantly lower among HF patients (P = < .001). The prevalence of global cognitive dysfunction was 90.0% in HF and 5.9% among controls (odds ratio, 15.3; 95% confidence interval, 5.08-46.01). Elevated systolic blood pressure, increased comorbidity index, and wide pulse pressure were significantly associated with poorer performance on at least 1 neuropsychological test. Using a multivariate linear regression analysis, pulse pressure retained its significance (P = .029; 95% confidence interval, -0.117 to -0.007) as the most important predictor of cognitive dysfunction in the cohort of HF patients. CONCLUSION: Cognitive dysfunction is prevalent among this sample of Nigerians with HF. Regular cognitive screening is therefore advocated among this high-risk group. Controlling comorbidities as well as blood pressure may improve cognitive performance among patients with HF.

Patients' feelings about the presence of medical students in a New Teaching Hospital in Southwestern Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate how patients feel about the introduction of medical students into a former general hospital transformed to a teaching hospital in southwestern Nigeria and to also assess the extent to which they are willing to involve medical students in the management of their conditions. METHODS: In a descriptive cross-sectional study, a sample of 251 randomly selected patients were interviewed using a pretested questionnaire that assessed patients' demography, patients' acceptance of and reaction to the involvement of medical students in their clinical care including the specific procedures the patients would allow medical students to perform. RESULTS: Two hundred and fifty-one patients with mean age ± standard deviation of 37.33 ± 19.01 (age range = 16-120 years; M:F = 1:1.26) were recruited between January 01 and March 31, 2013. Most patients (86.5%) preferred to be treated in a teaching hospital and were comfortable with medical students as observers (83.7%) and serving as the doctors' assistant (83.3%) during common diagnostic procedures. Men were more willing to have invasive procedures such as insertion of urinary catheter (56.6% vs. 43.4%, P = 0.001). Acceptability of medical students (such as willingness of patients to have students read their medical notes) was significantly higher in nonsurgical specialties than in surgical specialties (77.5% vs. 22.5%, P< 0.001). Factors associated with a positive disposition include age> 40 years, male gender, and higher level of education as well as consultation in nonsurgical specialties (P = 0.001). DISCUSSION: Medical students are well received into this new teaching hospital setting. However, there is a need for more education of younger, less educated female patients of surgical subspecialties so that they can understand their importance as irreplaceable partners in the training of medical students.

The Prevalence, Risk Factors and Changes in Symptoms of Self Reported Asthma, Rhinitis and Eczema Among Pregnant Women in Ogbomoso, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Allergic disorders have become a major public health concern worldwide. No Nigerian study has examined the epidemiology of allergic diseases among women. AIM: To document the prevalence, risk factors and the changes in the symptoms of allergic disorders during pregnancy. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Cross-sectional study conducted at the booking and antenatal clinics of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital and Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Clinic of the Comprehensive Health Center, Oja Igbo, Ogbomoso, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Study enrolled 432 women from two public hospitals. Sociodemographic and clinical history were obtained and allergic disorders were diagnosed using ISAAC questionnaires. RESULTS: The prevalence of wheezing, eczema and rhinitis in pregnancy are 7.5%, 4.0% and 5.8% respectively. The prevalence of wheezing and eczema was slightly higher among the pregnant in past 12 months. Wheeze worsened in 70% (18/26), improved in 15% (2/26), and stable in 15% (2/26). Eczema worsened in 50% (7/14), improved in 7.1% (1/14) and stable in 42.9% (6/14), while allergic rhinitis worsened in 50% (11/22), improved in 22.7% (5/22) and stabilized in 27.3 % (6/22). In multivariate analysis, the risk of allergic diseases in pregnancy was increase 2 times by low income earning (CI: 1.2 - 2.1, p = 0.002), low level education (OR = 0.6, CI: 0.3 - 0.9, p = 0.011) and by family history of asthma, OR-4.3, CI - 1.3 - 13.9, p = 0.015. Family history of asthma increase the chances of asthma by 18.7 times, CI-2.3 - 152.2, p = 0.006, while the odd of eczema was increased 9.1 times (CI-2.7 - 30.6, p<0.001) and 2.4 times (CI: 1.2 - 4.7, p = 0.008) by second hand home smoking and low-family income respectively. The risk of allergic rhinitis were raised 1.8 times by low family income (CI 1.1 - 2.8, p = 0.013) and 3.9 times by family history of rhinitis (OR = 3.9, CI 1.2 - 12.7, p = 0.024). CONCLUSION: Prevalence of wheezing and eczema are higher in pregnancy probably due to exacerbation induced by pregnancy. Social and genetic factors are important risk factors for allergic disorders in pregnancy.

Spectrum of skin diseases presented at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, southwest Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Patterns of skin disease in developing nations are changing as frequencies of non-communicable diseases continue to increase. Appraisal of the current status of the disease profile is of utmost importance for health planning and resource allocation. METHODS: A prospective analysis of 895 cases of outpatient consultation during the years 2005-2010 was conducted. RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation age of patients was 31.1 ± 19.1 years. Non-infectious skin diseases accounted for 80.9% of all cases. Eczemas/dermatitis (27.0%), urticarias/erythemas (11.0%), fungal infections (9.5%), skin appendage disorders (8.9%), papulosquamous diseases (8.2%), pigmentary diseases (8.2%), viral infections (6.8%), and tumors and malignant skin lesions (5.4%) represented the most common presentations. Atopic dermatitis was the most common type of eczema (29.8%) among children (odds ratio [OR] 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09-2.13; P = 0.013), in whom cornification disorders (OR 3.90, 95% CI 1.73-8.92; P < 0.001) and viral infections (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.09-3.25; P = 0.021) were also frequent. Adults were more likely to be diagnosed with drug eruptions (OR 3.58, 95% CI 1.09-11.80; P = 0.003), tumors/malignancy (OR 4.97, 95% CI 1.53-16.10; P = 0.030), or autoimmune connective tissue disorders (OR 8.13, 95% CI 1.09-60.20; P = 0.015). Female subjects were significantly affected by urticarias (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.00-2.33; P = 0.030) and papulosquamous diseases (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.09-3.03; P = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS: The present pattern shows that non-infectious skin diseases are predominant. Occurrences of eczemas and urticarias are increasing at similar rates, whereas infectious skin diseases are decreasing in frequency. Resources and research should be directed towards the prevention of non-infectious skin diseases at this time as the campaign for a cleaner environment continues.

Quality of life of Nigerians living with human immunodeficiency virus.

INTRODUCTION: Few reports from Nigeria have examined the quality of life (QOL) of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) despite the fact that Nigeria has the second largest number of PLWHA in the world. This study evaluated the QOL of Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire for HIV-Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) instrument and assessed the impact of demographic, laboratory and disease-related variables on QOL. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 491 consecutive PLWHA aged ≥ 18 years attending the dedicated clinic to PLWHA in South-west Nigeria. RESULTS: The lowest mean QOL scores were recorded in the environment and social domains. Participants aged ≥ 40 years had better QOL in the environment (p = 0.039) and spirituality (p = 0.033) domains and those in relationships had better QOL in the social relationship domain (p = 0.002). Subjects with no or primary education and those who rated their health status as good gave significantly higher ratings in all QOL domains. Participants with AIDS had significant lower QOL in the level of independence domain (p = 0.018) and those with CD4 count ≥ 350 cells /mm3 had better QOL scores in the physical, psychological and level of independence domains. Subjects without tuberculosis co-infection and those on antiretroviral therapy (ART) reported significantly better QOL in the physical, psychological, level of independence and spirituality domains. CONCLUSION: Marital relationship, absence of tuberculosis, CD4 count ≥ 350 cells /mm3 and use of ART positively impacted QOL of our patients.

The impacts of first line highly active antiretroviral therapy on serum selenium, CD4 count and body mass index: a cross sectional and short prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: The relationship that exists between body weights, serum selenium and immunological markers of HIV/AIDS continue to provoke more researches in the recent times. The objectives of this study were to examine baseline body mass index, CD4 count and serum selenium and to prospectively assess the impacts of HAART on same parameters 48 weeks post HAART among HIV patients. METHODS: A cohort comprising 140 newly diagnosed HIV positive were prospectively studied. Anthropometric measurements, serum selenium and CD4 count were assessed at diagnosis and 48 weeks post HAART. RESULTS: The mean age for patients was 35±8.8 years; 68% was female. Patients' mean weight was 56.79±10.22kg, BMI; 21.59±3.53, serum selenium; 0.55 ± 0.45µmol/L and CD4 count; 288.36 ± 232.23 at the baseline. At diagnosis, 47 (33.6%) were in stage 1, 49 (35.0%) in stage 2, 26 (18.6%) and 18 (12.9%) were in stage 3 and 4 respectively. Similarly, most patients had normal body mass index, 94 (67.14%), 26 (18.57%) were underweight, (12.86%) were overweight and two (1.43%) were obese at diagnosis. At 48 weeks post HAART, the mean weight, BMI, serum selenium and CD4 count were significantly increased. CONCLUSION: HAART repleted CD4 count and serum selenium, Post HAART overweight was associated with lesser CD4 count reconstitution and selenium repletion. A renew call for weight monitoring in HAART era.

Serum selenium and skin diseases among Nigerians with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

BACKGROUND: The role of selenium as an antioxidant micronutrient has garnered the unprecedented focus of researchers in recent times. No clinical study has related serum selenium concentration to skin diseases in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. METHODS: In this study, 134 newly diagnosed HIV patients that satisfied the inclusion criteria were included. Skin diseases were clinically diagnosed and fasting venous blood was taken for assessment of serum selenium using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. RESULTS: THE MEAN AGE OF HIV SUBJECTS WITH AND WITHOUT SKIN DISEASE WERE NOT SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENT: 32.72 ± 9.21 versus 35.86 ± 8.55 years, P = 0.077, respectively. The mean of serum selenium (0.51 ± 0.48 versus 0.81 ± 0.39), CD4+ count (228.06 ± 212.89 versus 446.41 ± 182.87), and body mass index (BMI; 21.09 ± 3.58 versus 23.53 ± 3.35) were significantly lower (P < 0.001) for HIV/AIDS participants with skin disease than those without skin disease. We found significant clustering of symptoms and signs: fever (P = 0.037), weight loss (P = 0.009), oral candidiasis (P = 0.038), pallor (P = 0.037) among HIV/AIDS subjects with skin diseases than those without. Low serum selenium concentration was significantly associated with primary skin disease of HIV/AIDS, such as pruritic papular eruption of AIDS (P = 0.003), xeroderma (P = 0.030), fluffy hair (P = 0.021), blue-black nail hyperpigmentation (P = 0.033) and secondary skin disease, such as oral candidiasis (P = 0.002). There was a significant association between low serum selenium concentration and increasing frequency of skin diseases (P = 0.002), but serum selenium was not significantly related to extents of distribution of skin diseases (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: serum selenium concentration was lower among HIV subjects with skin diseases than those without skin disease. Pruritic papular eruption, xeroderma, fluffy hair, blue-black nail hyper pigmentation, and oral candidiasis were significantly associated with low serum selenium concentration.

Low dose aspirin therapy and renal function in elderly patients.

PURPOSE: To determine whether low dose aspirin has any deleterious effects on renal function in elderly patients. METHODS: We conducted a prospective pilot study of 30 Nigerians older than 60 years with various chronic ailments necessitating the use of low dose aspirin. Patients gave their consent, and institutional ethical clearance was obtained. Each patient's baseline samples at enrolment (before commencing aspirin use) served as a control, and subsequent weekly samples were compared. The weekly mean of each parameter was calculated, and the differences of means from baseline were determined, and values were compared for statistical differences with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 16. RESULTS: We found that a majority of patients (86.67%) had basal renal functions at chronic kidney disease stages 1 and 2. When compared with the corresponding baseline parameters, the mean weekly serum and urinary electrolytes, urea, creatinine, and uric acid parameters did not change, and the P-value did not show any statistical significance. However, there was positive statistical significance for the creatinine clearance (P = 0.025). Also, unlike in previous studies, anemia and hypoalbuminemia did not affect the renal function parameters. CONCLUSION: This study did not show any deleterious effects with short-term, low dose (75 mg daily) aspirin use on kidney functions in elderly patients. However, caution should be exercised when dealing with patients in renal stages 3-5 and the very elderly, aged ≥ 80 years.

Long-term renal outcome and complications in South Africans with proliferative lupus nephritis.

AIM: To report the long-term outcome and complication profile of South African patients with proliferative lupus nephritis (PLN). METHODS: A retrospective review of 66 patients with biopsy-proven PLN [58 diffuse proliferative LN (Class IV) and 8 focal proliferative LN (Class III)] under our care from January 1995 to December 2009 was done. RESULTS: Thirty-three (50 %) patients reached the composite end point of doubling of serum creatinine, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or death. The 5-, 10- and 15-year cumulative event-free survival rates were 54, 34 and 27 %, respectively. Variables associated with the composite end point were simultaneous diagnosis of SLE and LN (p = 0.048); elevated serum creatinine at onset (p = 0.009); elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p < 0.001) and elevated diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.001) on follow-up; and non-remission following induction therapy (p < 0.001). The 5-, 10- and 15-year renal survival rates in our patients were 63, 52 and 52 %, respectively. Hypertension at onset of LN (p = 0.037), nephrotic-range proteinuria (p = 0.033), eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2) (p = 0.013) and lack of remission following induction therapy (p < 0.001) were all associated with development of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Elevated SBP on follow-up (95 % CI 1.03-1.34, p = 0.017) was the only factor associated with composite end point while failure to achieve remission following induction therapy was the only factor associated with ESRD on multivariate analysis. Thirty-five (53 %) patients developed complications with persistent leukopenia, gastritis, sepsis, tuberculosis (TB) and herpes zoster being the leading complications. Ovarian failure occurred in 4 (11 %) patients. CONCLUSION: The 5-, 10 and 15-year event-free survival rates were 54, 34 and 27 % and failure to achieve remission following induction therapy predicted poor renal survival on multivariate analysis.

Kidney disease in elderly South Africans.

BACKGROUND: Life expectancy is low in many African countries due to several factors including the ongoing HIV epidemic. However, the global increase in life expectancy has translated to more elderly patients living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The patterns of kidney disease in the elderly have never been described from sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS: This study was a retrospective study of 111 elderly patients (age ≥ 60 years) who had a renal biopsy performed at the Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2009. RESULTS: The mean age of patients at time of biopsy was 66.3 ± 5.7 years (males: 66.4 ± 5.6; females: 66.3 ± 5.9 years). Primary glomerular diseases were seen in 38.7%, secondary glomerular diseases in 36.0%, tubulointerstitial diseases in 17.1% and diseases classified as miscellaneous in 8.1% of all patients. Nephrotic syndrome was the most common indication for the performance of a renal biopsy (48.6%). Membranous lomerulonephritis (MGN) was the most common type of disease observed (14.4%) and was significantly more frequent in males than in females (p = 0.029). Other common histological diagnoses included diabetes nephropathy (12.6%), chronic glomerulonephritis (5.4%), and lupus nephritis (4.5%). HIV associated nephropathy (HIVAN) was only seen in 1 patient (0.9%). CONCLUSION: The patterns of renal disease currently seen in elderly South Africans closely resembles that reported from other countries but is at complete variance with the pattern reported in the general population of South Africa in which HIV plays a significant role.

Prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and evaluation of cardiovascular risk using three risk equations in nigerians living with human immunodeficiency virus.

BACKGROUND: Reports from middle- and high-income countries suggest that the improved health outcome from highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHIV) is being mitigated by increase in deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD). AIMS: This study was to determine the prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) and the 10-year cardiovascular risk using three risk equations in PLWHIV with no overt vascular disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 265 PLWHIV. We classified the subjects as having low, moderate or high cardiovascular risk using the Framingham, World Health Organization/International Society of Hypertension (WHO/ISH) and Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) equations. RESULTS: The mean age of the cohort was 38.7 ± 8.7 years; 179 (67.5%) were females and 214 (80.8%) were on HAART. The prevalent traditional CVRFs in our cohort were low physical activity (66%), low HDL-C (49.1%), hypercholesterolaemia (33.6%), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m(2) (32.8%) and elevated LDL-C (28.3%). The prevalence of smoking was very low (1.9%). The prevalence of moderate to high 10-year coronary risk was 11.7, 12.8, and 12.8% according to the Framingham, WHO/ISH and SCORE risk equations, respectively. CONCLUSION: Most of our patients had low overall cardiovascular risk according to the three risk equations.

Prevalence of End-Digit Preference in Recorded Blood Pressure By Nurses: a Comparison of Measurements Taken by Mercury and Electronic Blood Pressure-Measuring Devices

Objectives: When compared with the use of a mercury sphygmomanometer; the use of a validated digital blood pressure (BP) measuring device eliminates the risk of exposure to mercury. Digital devices are also associated with a lesser degree of end-digit preference (EDP). EDP refers to the occurrence of a particular end digit more frequently than would be expected through chance alone. There have been only a few reports from Africa on the occurrence of EDP in BP measurement. This study examined EDP in BP taken by nurses before and after the introduction of a digital BP-measuring device.Design: The design was a retrospective study.Settings and subjects: We reviewed the BP readings of 458 patients who presented at the dedicated clinic for people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital; Osogbo; Nigeria; before and after the introduction of the digital BP-measuring device.Outcome measures: The prevalence of end-digit zero of systolic and diastolic BP readings before and after the introduction of the digital device was compared using McNemar's test.Results: There was a large and significant fall in end-digit zero when BP readings that were taken using the mercury and digital devices were compared (systolic 98.1 vs. 10.9 ; p-value 0.001; diastolic 97.1 vs. 14.9 ; p-value 0.001 (McNemar's test).Conclusion: There was a significant reduction in the frequency of end-digit zero when BP was taken with the digital device rather than the mercury device. Regular training and certification of healthcare workers in BP measurement is recommended to ensure a high quality BP measurement standard

QT Interval prolongation and dispersion: Epidemiology and clinical correlates in subjects with newly diagnosed systemic hypertension in Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: The use of easily obtainable clinical and laboratory parameters to identify hypertensive patients with increased cardiovascular risk in resource limited settings cannot be overemphasized. Prolongation of QT intervals and increased dispersion has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular death. The study aimed at describing the epidemiology of QT interval abnormalities among newly diagnosed hypertensive subjects and associated clinical correlates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and forty newly diagnosed hypertensive subjects and 70 controls were used for this study. Clinical and sociodemographic characteristics were obtained. Twelve lead resting electrocardiography, QT dispersion, heart rate corrected minimum and maximum QT intervals were determined manually. Increased QTcmax was defined at QTcmax >440msec. QT parameters were compared between various groups. SPSS 16.0 was used for data analysis. RESULTS: The hypertensive subjects were well matched in age and gender distribution with controls. QTmax and QTcmax were significantly higher among hypertensive subjects than controls (379.7±45.1 vs. 356.7±35.6, 447.5± 49.0 vs. 414.5 ±34.7 ms, respectively, P<0.05). QTd and QTcd were also significantly higher among hypertensive subjects than controls (62.64±25.65 vs. 46.1±17.2, 73.8 ±30.0 vs. 52.5±18.8, respectively, P<0.05). Seventy three (52.14%) of the hypertensive subjects had QTcmax >440ms compared to 21.43% of controls, P=0.01. Increased QTc dispersion was present in 36.4% of hypertensive subjects. Hypertensive subjects with QT abnormalities had significantly higher mean waist hip ratio, mean body mass index and a higher proportion of smoking than controls. CONCLUSION: QT prolongation and increased QTc dispersion are common among newly diagnosed hypertensive Nigerians and seem to be significantly associated with obesity. Effective antihypertensive therapy and control of obesity are important management modality for newly diagnosed hypertensive patients.