Interferon gamma, interleukin 6 and tissue necrosis factor alpha levels among asymptomatic HIV patients in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Morbidity and mortality associated with HIV infection is immune-mediated, and an understanding of HIV immunology will be beneficial in the management of HIV infectionOBJECTIVE: The objective of this research was to measure the levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IFN-γ in asymptomatic HIV patients and non-HIV subjects, as well as their relationship with CD4 count. METHOD: Blood samples were collected from 173 subjects, consisting of 125 asymptomatic HIV patients (44 HAART-naïve and 81 on HAART) and 48 non-HIV subjects. The IFN-, IL-6, and TNF- levels in the blood were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and the CD4 count of all participants was determined using flow cytometry. RESULTS: Regardless of treatment status, the IFN-γ levels of non-HIV subjects were significantly higher than those of HIV patients (p< 0.001). The opposite was true for IL-6, as the levels of IL-6 in non-HIV subjects were significantly lower than those in HAART-naïve HIV patients (p< 0.001) and those on HAART (p< 0.01). TNF-α levels did not differ between HIV patients and their non-HIV counterparts. Generally, the levels of these cytokines was not affected (p> 0.05) by immunosuppression (measured by CD4 count < 200 cells/µL) and there was no significant correlation between CD4 count and these cytokines (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, asymptomatic HIV infection decreased IFN-γ, increased IL-6, and had no effect on TNF-α levels, regardless of treatment status. Immunosuppression had no impact on these cytokine levels, and there was no relationship between them and CD4 counts.

New strains of hepatitis B virus genotype E circulating in Nigeria.

OBJECTIVE: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is not uncommon among persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Severity of HBV infection and treatment outcome are associated with specific HBV genotypes. No study has reported the types of HBV genotypes circulating among HIV-infected subjects in Nigeria. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of HBV, as well as its genotypic distribution among HIV-infected subjects in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODS: Whole blood was collected from a total of 564 HIV-infected and 250 apparently healthy HIV-negative subjects. Serodiagnosis of HBV infection was done using an immunochromatographic kit. Detection of HBV-DNA and sequencing of amplicons were done using standard molecular techniques. RESULTS: HIV status was not significantly associated with HBV seroinfection (HIV vs. non-HIV: 4.6% vs. 4.0%; odds ratio = 1.168, 95% confidence interval = 0.550, 2.444, and P = 0.854). HIV-infected subjects were observed to have an insignificantly (P = 0.645) higher prevalence of true HBV infection than their non-HIV-infected counterparts (HIV positive vs. HIV negative: 23.1% vs. 10.0%). All patients with true HBV infection were found to harbor HBV genotype E, which did not cluster around other HBV genotype E. CONCLUSION: This study reports novel strains of HBV genotype E circulating in Nigeria.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Sulfadoxine Antibody Among Patients Undergoing Treatment for Malaria in Benin City, Nigeria.

OBJECTIVES: Because of lack of data on the prevalence of sulfadoxine antibody, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of sulfadoxine antibodies and its possible risk factors. METHODS: Blood specimens were collected from 500 patients undergoing treatment for malaria at Central Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information and sociodemographic data. Sulfadoxine antibodies were detected by drug absorption (DAT) and immune complex (IMC) methods. ABO, rhesus blood group, and hemoglobin (Hb) phenotype were determined by using standard technique. RESULTS: DAT method had a significantly higher rate of detecting sulfadoxine antibodies compared to IMC method (p = 0.019). Age, gender, and level of education did not affect the prevalence of sulfadoxine antibodies (p > 0.050). Patients that were an artisan (p < 0.001), married (p = 0.025), living in a two-room apartment (p = 0.003), had history of drug reaction, consumed antimalarial drug (maloxine), and consumed sulfadoxine-containing drug within the last month (p < 0.001 each), and significantly affected the prevalence of sulfadoxine antibodies. Individuals with Hb phenotype AA had significantly higher prevalence of sulfadoxine antibodies (p < 0.001), and presence of rhesus D antigen was associated with sulfadoxine antibodies. CONCLUSIONS: An overall prevalence of 22.0% among the tested individuals had sulfadoxine antibodies. Prudent use of sulfadoxine containing drugs is advocated.

Public Knowledge of HIV/AIDS in Three Rural Communities of Nigeria.

This study aimed at assessing knowledge of HIV/AIDS among residents of three rural communities in Nigeria. A total of 371 persons residing in selected rural communities were recruited for this study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from all participants. Results of the study showed a generally high level of awareness of HIV/AIDS in all communities surveyed. However, among study participants, knowledge of mode of prevention and management of HIV infection was poor as was knowledge of HIV status and readiness to utilize free voluntary counseling and testing for HIV/AIDS services. Scale-up of HIV/AIDS education by relevant health authorities is strongly advocated.

Asymptomatic urinary tract infection among pregnant women receiving ante-natal care in a traditional birth home in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: A good proportion of pregnant women patronize traditional birth homes in Nigeria for ante-natal care. This study aimed at determining the prevalence, risk factors, and susceptibility profile of etiologic agents of urinary tract infection among ante-natal attendees in a traditional birth home in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODS: Clean-catch urine was collected from 220 pregnant women attending a traditional birth home in Benin City, Nigeria. Urine samples were processed, and microbial isolates identified using standard bacteriological procedures. A cross-sectional study design was used. RESULTS: The prevalence of urinary tract infection among pregnant women was 55.0%, significantly affected by parity and gestational age (P<0.05). Mixed infection was recorded among 13(10.7%) pregnant women, and was unaffected by maternal age, parity, gravidity, gestational age, and educational status. Irrespective of trimester Escherichia coli was the most prevalent etiologic agent of urinary tract infection, followed by Staphylococcus aureus. The flouroquinolones were the most effective antibacterial agents, while Sulphamethoxazole-trimetoprim, Amoxicillin, Nalidixic acid, and Nitrofurantoin had poor activity against uropathogens isolated. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of urinary tract infection among pregnant women was 55.0% and significantly affected by gestational age and parity. The most prevalent etiologic agent observed was Escherichia coli. With the exception of the flouroquinolones, aminoglycoside, and Amoxicillin-cluvanate, the activity of other antibiotics used on uropathogens were poor. Health education of the traditional birth attendant and her clients by relevant intervention agencies is strongly advocated.

Prevalence and determinants of low birth weight: the situation in a traditional birth home in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: The traditional birth attendant delivers majority of pregnant women in Nigeria. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors for delivery of low birth weight (LBW) neonates in a Traditional Birth Home (TBH)in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODS: A total of 780 pregnant women who received ante-natal care at a TBH and live singletons born to them were recruited for this study. Venous blood was collected from all pregnant women at onset of labour, and haemogblobin concentration determined using standard method. RESULTS: The prevalence of low birth weight was 6.3%, and was significantly affected by maternal age (P =0.039), gestational age (P=0.019), maternal height (P = 0.001), marital status (P = 0.015), and time of registration (P = 0.016). Being in a polygamous union, was significantly associated with the prevalence of LBW (OR = 13.640; 95%CI: = 6.148, 30.261; P = < 0.0001). Maternal anaemia was identified as a risk factor for the delivering of LBW neonates (OR = 2.797; 95% CI = 1.555, 5.029; P = 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of low birth weight was 6.3%. Intervention by appropriate agencies is advocated to reduce LBW in TBHs in Nigeria.

Asymptomatic Malaria among Blood Donors in Benin City Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors for asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia and anemia among blood donors in a private medical laboratory in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODS: Venous blood was collected from a total of 247 blood donors. Malaria status, ABO, Rhesus blood groups and hemoglobin concentration of all participants were determined using standard methods. RESULTS: The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria infection was higher among commercial blood donors than volunteer group (commercial vs volunteer donor: 27.5 %vs. 13.8%; OR = 2.373, 95% CI = 0.793, 7.107, P = 0.174). Asymptomatic malaria was not significantly affected by gender (P = 0.733), age (P = 0.581), ABO (P = 0.433) and rhesus blood groups (P = 0.806) of blood donors. Age was observed to significantly (P = 0.015) affect malaria parasite density with donors within the age group of 21-26 years having the highest risk. The prevalence of anemia was significantly higher among commercial donors (commercial vs volunteer donors: 23.4% vs 3.4%: OR = 8.551, 95% CI = 1.135, 64.437, P = 0.013) and donors of blood group O type (P = < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia and anemia was higher among commercial donors than voluntary donors. Mandatory screening of blood donors for malaria parasite is advocated to curb transfusion transmitted malaria and associated sequelae.

Biorisk assessment of medical diagnostic laboratories in Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess public and private medical diagnostic laboratories in Nigeria for the presence of biosafety equipment, devices, and measures. METHODS: A total of 80 diagnostic laboratories in biosafety level 3 were assessed for the presence of biosafety equipment, devices, and compliance rate with biosafety practices. A detailed questionnaire and checklist was used to obtain the relevant information from enlisted laboratories. RESULTS: The results showed the presence of an isolated unit for microbiological work, leak-proof working benches, self-closing doors, emergency exits, fire extinguisher(s), autoclaves, and hand washing sinks in 21.3%, 71.3%, 15.0%, 1.3%, 11.3%, 82.5%, and 67.5%, respectively, of all laboratories surveyed. It was observed that public diagnostic laboratories were significantly more likely to have an isolated unit for microbiological work (p = 0.001), hand washing sink (p = 0.003), and an autoclave (p ≤ 0.001) than private ones. Routine use of hand gloves, biosafety cabinet, and a first aid box was observed in 35.0%, 20.0%, and 2.5%, respectively, of all laboratories examined. Written standard operating procedures, biosafety manuals, and biohazard signs on door entrances were observed in 6.3%, 1.3%, and 3.8%, respectively, of all audited laboratories. No biosafety officer(s) or records of previous spills, or injuries and accidents, were observed in all diagnostic laboratories studied. CONCLUSION: In all laboratories (public and private) surveyed, marked deficiencies were observed in the area of administrative control responsible for implementing biosafety. Increased emphasis on provision of biosafety devices and compliance with standard codes of practices issued by relevant authorities is strongly advocated.

Unusual Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes and Cryptosporidium hominis subtypes in HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons are commonly infected with Cryptosporidium species and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in both developed and developing countries, particularly patients with CD4+ cell counts below 200 cells/µL; 285 HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) were enrolled in this study, and both stool and blood specimens were collected from participants. The stool specimens were analyzed and typed for E. bieneusi and Cryptosporidium spp. by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. CD4 count was analyzed using flow cytometry. E. bieneusi and Cryptosporidium were detected in 18 (6.3%) and 4 (1.4%) patients, respectively. The E. bieneusi detected mostly belonged to a new genotype group that, thus far, has only been found in a few humans: genotype Nig4 in 2 patients and two new genotypes related to Nig4 in 12 patients. The Cryptosporidium detected included C. hominis (two patients), C. parvum (one patient), and C. felis (one patient), with the two C. hominis infections belonging to an unusual subtype family. Additional studies are required to determine whether some E. bieneusi genotypes and C. hominis subtypes are more prevalent in HIV patients on HAART.

Candida colonisation in asymptomatic HIV patients attending a tertiary hospital in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Candidiasis is the commonest opportunistic fungal infection in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). CD4+ lymphocyte counts have been found to be a marker of HIV disease progression. AIM: This study focused on determining the spectrum of Candida isolates in urine, stool, and oral specimens among HIV patients in a tertiary hospital. METHODS: A total of 300 subjects comprising of 200 HIV patients and 100 non-HIV subjects were used for this study. Three samples (urine, stool, and oral swab) were collected from each subject. Each specimen was processed using standard microbiological techniques and emergent Candida isolates were identified with CHROMagar™ Candida and sugar fermentation tests. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of Candida colonisation among HIV patients was 52.5%. HAART-naive patients had a significantly higher prevalence (OR = 3.65; 95% CI = 2.03-6.56; p<0.0001) than their counterpart on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) (OR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.13-3.50; p=0.0232). Female gender was a significant risk factor for acquiring Candida infection (OR = 3.40; 95% CI = 1.14-10.13; p=0.0289). The effect of age on prevalence of candidiasis was observed among HIV patients on HAART (p=0.0161). A CD4+ count <200 cells/µl was a significant risk factor for acquiring candidal infection only among HAART-naive patients (OR = 4.37; 95% CI = 1.60-11.95; p=0.0042). The five species of Candida recovered from this study were C. albicans, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata. CONCLUSION: There is a significant relationship between antiretroviral therapy, CD4+ counts, and the prevalence of candidiasis.

Plasmodium falciparum infection in HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Plasmodium falciparum infection is endemic in most tropical countries and will definitely infect Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive patients living in this region at one time or the other during the course of their infection. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of malaria infection in HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODS: A total of 285 (84 males and 201 females) adults attending the hospital were enrolled in this study between July 2010 and June 2011. Blood specimens were collected from each participant and processed for CD4 counts, P. falciparum detection and hemoglobin concentration using standard procedures. The software INSTAT (GraphPad Software Inc., La Jolla, CA, USA) was used for all statistical analyses. RESULTS: A total of 6 (2.11%) out of 285 HIV infected patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral therapy (HAART) treatment had malaria and anemia. CD4 count < 200 cells/microl was significantly associated with P. falciparum infection with odd ratio estimate of 11.61 (95% CI: 2.06, 65.48; P < 0.004). Anemia was significantly associated with asymptomatic malaria infection among HIV patients on HAART with an odd ratio of 16.47 (95%: CI: 0.919, 295.5; P = 0.021). CONCLUSION: The study reveals a low prevalence of asymptomatic malaria among HIV patients on HAART. Measures to reduce malaria infection and anemia among HIV patients on HAART are advocated.

Prevalence of Malaria and Anemia among Pregnant Women Attending a Traditional Birth Home in Benin City, Nigeria.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of malaria and anemia among pregnant women attending a traditional birth center as well as the effect of herbal remedies, gravidity, age, educational background and malaria prevention methods on their prevalence. METHODS: Blood specimens were collected from 119 pregnant women attending a Traditional Birth Home in Benin City, Nigeria. Malaria parasitemia was diagnosed by microscopy while anemia was defined as hemoglobin concentration <11 g/dL. RESULTS: The prevalence of malaria infection was (OR=4.35 95% CI=1.213, 15.600; p=0.016) higher among primigravidae (92.1%). Pregnant women (38.5%) with tertiary level of education had significantly lower prevalence of malaria infection (p=0.002). Malaria significantly affected the prevalence of anemia (p<0.05). Anemia was associated with consumption of herbal remedies (OR=2.973; 95% CI=1.206, 7.330; p=0.017). The prevalence of malaria parasitemia and anemia were not affected by malaria prevention methods used by the participants. CONCLUSION: The overall prevalence of malaria infection and anemia observed in this study were 78.9% and 46.2%, respectively. Higher prevalence of malaria infection was associated with primigravidae and lower prevalence with tertiary education of subjects. Anemia was associated with consumption of herbal remedies. There is urgent need to control the prevalence of malaria and anemia among pregnant women attending traditional birth homes.

Plasmodium falciparum and intestinal parasitic co-infections in HIV-infected patients in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION: Human co-infection with Plasmodium falciparum and helminthes is ubiquitous throughout Africa. This study aimed to determine the co-infections of Plasmodium falciparum infection in HIV and intestinal parasitic infections, and their immunological distribution, in Benin City, Nigeria. METHODOLOGY: A total of 2,000 stool specimens from HIV-positive patients and 500 controls (HIV-negative individuals) were examined for ova, cysts, or parasites using standard procedures. In addition, patients' blood samples were analyzed for CD4 counts by flow cytometry and examined for Plasmodium falciparum by microscopy. RESULTS: The prevalence of single parasitic infection among HIV patients was 18.1% in males and 16.9% among females with no significant difference (p = 0.536) while gender was a risk factor in multiple parasitic infections (male versus female: 4.2% and 1.8% OR = 2.384; 95% CI = 1.371, 4.147) (p = 0.0025). Increasing age was not associated with increased risk of both single and multiple parasitic infections (p = 0.083; p = 0.248). CD4 + T cell count less than 200 cells/µl was a risk factor for acquiring single and multiple parasitic infections among HIV patients (OR = 5.565; 95% CI = 4.136, 7.486; p = 0.0001; OR = 4.283; 95% CI = 2.424, 7.566; p = 0.0001). The most common co-infection observed was between Plasmodium falciparum and Ascaris lumbricoides 43% (10) among HIV patients. CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence of co-infections between Plasmodium falciparum and intestinal parasites. Diagnosis of parasitic infections among HIV patients is advocated as this will enhance better management of HIV-infected patients.

Molecular epidemiologic characterization of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in HIV-infected persons in Benin City, Nigeria.

Molecular characterization of Enterocytozoon bieneusi has led to better understanding of microsporidiosis transmission in humans. This study aimed to detect and genotype E. bieneusi in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons. Stool specimens were collected from 463 HIV-infected patients and analyzed for E. bieneusi by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer. E. bieneusi was detected in 77 HIV patients. CD4 cell counts < 200 cells/µL was associated with E. bieneusi infection (P = 0.09). E. bieneusi was significantly associated with weight loss (P < 0.0001), diarrhea (P = 0.006), fever (P < 0.0001), not being married (P < 0.0001), and flush type of toilet (P = 0.0007). Six known genotypes of D, A, IV, CAF2, EbpA, and Peru 8 in 31, 22, 14, 2, 1, and 1 patients, respectively, five novel genotypes of E. bieneusi, and one infection with mixed genotypes were observed in this study. Three of the novel genotypes were genetically distant to the genotypes commonly found in humans.

Microbiology of lower respiratory tract infections in benin city, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Lower respiratory tract infections are among the most common infectious diseases of humans worldwide and continue to be a major cause of morbidity in Nigeria. This study focused on determining the microbial agents of lower respiratory tract infections, the effect of age and gender on its prevalence, and the susceptibility profile of bacterial isolates. METHODS: Sputum specimens were collected from 1539 patients with symptoms of lower respiratory tract infections. The sputum specimens were processed to recover microbial aetiologic agents and susceptibility profiles of bacterial isolates were determined using standard techniques. RESULTS: An overall prevalence of 18.91% of lower respiratory tract infections was observed in this study. There is no difference in the prevalence of lower respiratory tract infection between the genders (P = 0.649). The prevalence of lower respiratory tract infections increases significantly with age (P < 0.001), with patients 71 years and older having the highest prevalence. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most predominant isolate causing lower respiratory tract infection while Acinetobacter species were the least predominant isolate. The fluoroquinolones, ß-lactams, and gentamicin showed moderate to high activity. CONCLUSION: Gender did not affect the prevalence, but age did. ß-lactams, fluoroquinolones, and gentamicin were the most active antibacterial agents and, therefore, the drugs of choice in treating lower respiratory tract infections in our setting.

Total antioxidant status of zinc, manganese, copper and selenium levels in rats exposed to premium motor spirit fumes.

BACKGROUND: Frequent exposure to premium motor spirit (PMS) is common and could be a risk factor for liver dysfunction in those occupationally exposed. A possible association between PMS fumes and plasma total antioxidant status as well as plasma levels of zinc, manganese, copper and selenium using a rodent model could provide new insights into the pathology of the liver where cellular dysfunction is an established risk factor. AIM: This study aimed to determine the total antioxidant status and plasma levels of zinc, copper, selenium and manganese in those occupationally exposed using rodent model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 25 albino Wistar rats of both sexes were used for this study. The animals were divided into five groups of five rats in each group. Group 1 rats were not exposed to PMS fumes (control group), group 2 rats were exposed for 1 hour daily, group 3 for 3 hours daily, group 4 for 5 hours daily and group 5 for 7 hours daily. The experiment lasted for a period of 4 weeks. Blood samples obtained from all the groups after 4 weeks of exposure were used for the determination of plasma total antioxidant status as well as plasma levels of zinc, manganese, copper and selenium. RESULTS: Results showed significant increases in means of plasma copper (69.70±0.99 for test and 69.20±1.02 for control, P < 0.05) and selenium (72.70±1.58 for test and 68.20±0.86 for control, P < 0.05) in the exposed rats when respective mean values were compared with those of corresponding controls. Mean body weight index (BWI) and percentage weight increase (PWI) were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in exposed rats when compared with the unexposed group. The mean plasma levels of zinc (137.40±4.06 for test and 147.80±2.52 for control) and manganese (65.75±1.02 for test and 70.00±0.71 for control) showed significant decrease (P < 0.05) when compared with control. Plasma level of total antioxidant status (TAS) did not differ significantly in exposed rats when compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: This study showed that frequent exposure to PMS fumes may lead to increase plasma levels of copper and selenium probably due to liver dysfunction and decrease in plasma levels of zinc and manganese probably as a result of interference in their metabolic pathway of the exposed groups.

Microbiology of Wound Infections Among patients of a Tertiary Hospital in Benin City, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Wound infections are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Etiologic agents of wound infections vary with geographical locations. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of wound infections, the effect of age and gender on the prevalence as well as the etiologic agents and their susceptibility to antibacterial agents. METHODS: Wound swabs collected from 2061 patients were processed to investigate etiologic agents using standard technique. Disc susceptibility of bacterial agents was determined. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of wound infections was 64.8%. The prevalence of wound infections was not significantly affected by gender but was significantly affected by age (P<0.001). The prevalence of wound infections was minimum among age group of <5 years old (20.0%) and maximum among the age group of 36-40 years old (77.5%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent etiologic agent (21.5%). ß-lactams, fluoroquinolones and gentamicin were the most effective antibacterial agents. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of wound infections was high and was only affected by age. Staphylococcus aureus was the most predominant etiologic agent and ß-lactam antibiotics are recommended.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites among patients of a tertiary hospital in Benin city, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Intestinal parasitic infections have been described as constituting the greatest single worldwide cause of illness and disease. AIM: The objective of this study is to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in relation to sex and age as well as seasons of the year in Benin city, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The stool samples were processed using saline and iodine mounts and examined microscopically for ova and cysts of parasites. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 3.9% while gender and season had no correlation with the prevalence of intestinal parasites (P = 0.548, P = 0.696). There was a significant relationship between intestinal parasitic infection and age (P < 0.033). Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent (51.4%) while Entamoeba histolytica had the least prevalence (5.4%). CONCLUSION: The results of this study concluded that 36 patients were infected with various intestinal parasites and that age significantly affected the prevalence of parasitic infections. Effective treatment of infected patients and improved sanitary habits is advocated.

Urinary tract infection in a rural community of Nigeria.

AIM: To determine the prevalence of urinary tract infection (UTI) in Okada, a rural community in Nigeria, and the effect of age and gender on its prevalence as well as the etiologic agents and the susceptibility profile of the bacterial agents. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Clean-catch midstream urine was collected from 514 patients (49 males and 465 females). The urine samples were processed and microbial isolates identified. Susceptibility testing was performed on all bacterial isolates. RESULT: The prevalence of urinary tract infection was significantly higher in females compared to males (female vs. male: 42.80% vs. 10.20%; OR = 6.583. 95% CI = 2.563,16.909; P < 0.0001). Age had no effect on the prevalence of UTI. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent isolate generally and in females, while Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant isolate causing urinary tract infection in males. The flouroquinnolones were the most active antibacterial agents. CONCLUSION: An overall prevalence of 39.69% was observed in this study. Females had a 3 to 17 fold increase risk of acquiring UTI, than their male counterpart. Escherichia coli were the predominant isolates causing UTI.

Etiologic agents of otitis media in Benin city, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Otitis Media continues to be a major presentation in the ear, nose and throat clinic. AIM: This study aimed to isolate, characterize and identify the bacteriological and mycological etiologic agents of otitis media in Benin city. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ear discharge from 569 (299 males and 270 females) patients diagnosed clinically of otitis media between August 2009 and August 2010 were processed to recover the bacterial and fungal etiologic agents. Susceptibility test was performed on all bacterial isolate. RESULT: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (28.3%) was the predominant bacteria isolate causing otitis media followed by Staphylococcus aureus (21.0%), Klebsiella sp (8.9%), Proteus sp (8.2%), Alkaligenes spp (4.3%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (3.9%), Escherichia coli (3.0%) and Citrobacter freundi (1.7%). Fungi isolated were Aspergillus niger (9.2%), Candida albicans (5.4%), Candida tropicalis (3.0%), Aspergillus flavus (2.1%) and Candida parasilopsis (1.5%). 413 had a single organism isolated from the middle ear culture while twenty (3.51%) patients had mixed organisms isolated. Infection was highest among 0 - 5 years, and lowest among aged 18 - 23. All bacterial isolates were poorly susceptible to the antibacterial agents. CONCLUSION: The study uncovers a high frequency of bacteria associated otitis media with the finding of fungi too as a significant etiologic agent.