Browsing by Author "Karki, S"
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Publication A Survey on Oral Health and Practice of Nepalese in Areas Affected by Earthquake in 2015(Kathmandu University, 2017) Rokaya, D; Suttagul, K; Karki, S; Rokaya, N; Seriwatanachai, D; Humagain, MABSTRACT Background Understanding post-earthquake oral health indicators is essential for developing oral health interventions of the victims. Presumably, due to a geographic difficulty, there has been no investigation to reveal the oral health status of individuals after the Gorkha earthquake in Nepal. Objective The main objective was to determine the oral health and practice of Nepalese affected by earthquake in April-May, 2015. Method The epidemiological cross sectional study was done at 5 different districts (Sindhupalchok, Dadhing, Bhaktapur, Kathmandu and Kavre) of Nepal from September till November, 2015. Altogether 500 subjects aged form 16 to 80 years of age living in the transitional shelters community were included in earthquake- affected areas. Different parameters were studied from past and present medical and dental problems, habits, oral hygiene habits. DMFT, gingival index, periodontal index were studied and correlation was studied among them. Result It shows that 98% of the participants had plaque and 96.4% of the participants had calculus. Mean decayed was 9, mean missing was 4 and mean filling was 1. 22.60% of the participants had score 0, 34.8% had score 1, 34% had score 2 and 8.60% had score 3 of mean gingivitis index. 10% of the participants showed score 0, 36% showed score 1, 35% showed score 2, 10.2% showed score 3 and 8.2% showed score 4 of mean periodontal index. Moreover, significant correlation was observed among DMFT index, gingival index and periodontal index (p<0.001). Conclusion The oral health care practice, oral hygiene habits, nutritional intake of the people have been affected in the earthquake affected areas. It showed high caries index, gingival index and periodontal index in earthquake affected people suggesting further efforts are needed for an oral health improvement. Data from this study may be used as basic information for oral health planning and future steps in oral health care preventive and therapeutic programs. KEY WORDS Dental caries, disaster, gorkha earthquake, oral health, periodontitisPublication Benign Sinonasal Masses: A Clinicopathological and Radio- logical Profile(Kathmandu University, 2013) Nepal, A; Chettri, ST; Joshi, RR; Karki, SABSTRACT Background Benign nasal and paranasal sinus masses are commonly encountered in clinical practice. Though benign, certain nasal polyps, fungal sinusitis, hemangiomas and fibro-osseous tumors can present with locally destructive features and deformities, mimicking malignancies at once. Objective This study was carried out to recognize the great variety of benign nasal lesions and their frequency in our region. Methods A retrospective chart analysis of cases presenting as mass in nose and paranasal sinus that underwent surgery over three years duration at our institute was done. A provisional diagnosis was made after clinical assessment and radiological investigations, but the final diagnosis was established after histopathological examination. Results A total 331 cases presented as masses in nose and paranasal sinus presented during the period. The clinicopathological examination aided by endoscopic and imaging studies revealed the non neoplastic benign masses in 293 and neoplastic masses in 38. Polyps were the commonest lesions constituting 70% cases followed by rhinosporidiosis in 10%. Fungal sinusitis, squamous papillomas, hemangiomas and inverted papillomas were found to be in order of 4.5%, 4%, 3.5% and 3% respectively. Rare cases like “rhino- oto-cereberal” form of mucormycosis, angiomyoma, and psammomatoid ossifying fibroma were also observed in the study. Conclusion Most of the nasal polyps/fungal sinusitis can be diagnosed clinically. However many a times Computer tomography (CT) scan and biopsy are necessary to differentiate them from each other and treatment plan. Certain benign tumors have high potential for malignant transformation while others can present with locally destructive features and deformities. KEY WORDS Angiomyoma, benign, fungal, polyps, rhinosporidiosis, sinonasalPublication Clinicoradiologic Evaluation of Eagle’s Syndrome and its Management(Kathmandu University, 2013) Pokharel, M; Karki, S; Shrestha, I; Shrestha, BL; Khanal, K; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Eagle’s syndrome (Elongated styloid process) is often misdiagnosed due to its vague symptomatology. The diagnosis relies on detail history taking, palpation of styloid process in tonsillar fossa and imaging modalities. Objective To assess the length and medial angulation of elongated styloid process with the help of three dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) scan and to describe our clinical and surgical experience with patients suffering from Eagle’s syndrome. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted from August 2011 to August 2012 among 39 patients with Eagle’s syndrome. Detailed history taking, clinical examination and 3D CT scan was performed. Length and medial angulation was calculated. Patients with styloid process length longer than 2.50 cm underwent surgical excision via intraoral approach. Medial angulation of styloid process on both sides was correlated with each other using rank correlation coefficient. Wilcoxon Signed Rank test was applied to test significant difference between pre-operative and post- operative symptoms scores. Result Significant positive correlation was found between the medial angulation of styloid process on right side and left side (ρ =0.81, p<0.001). Significant difference was also observed between pre and post-operative symptoms scores (z=-5.16, p<0.001) . Conclusion Possibility of Eagle’s syndrome should always be considered while examining patients with vague neck pain. 3D CT reconstruction is a gold standard investigation which helps in studying the relation of styloid process with surrounding structures along with accurate measurement of its length and medial angulation. KEY WORDS Eagle’s syndrome, elongated styloid process, three dimensional computed tomographyPublication Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Craniocerebral Trauma in Dhulikhel Hospital(Kathmandu University, 2017) Suwal, S; Karki, S; Mandal, D; Poudel, RCABSTRACT Background Craniocerebral trauma is common health problem in emergency department of any hospital. CT is commonly indicated to to rule out any significant intracranial abnormalities in these patients, so that timely intervention of the significant intracranial pathologies can be done. Objective The study is done to evaluate CT findings of head injury patients in Dhulikhel Hospital. Method This prospective hospital based study was done in Department of Radiology of Dhulikhel Hospital in the period of January 2015 to December 2015. CT findings of the head trauma patients undergoing CT in the Department of Radiology were reviewed and analysed. Result The study was done in 484 patients, 165 female and 319 male patients. Mean age of the patients was 30.87 ± 19.25 years. Among them 205 patients showed abnormal CT findings, scalp injury being the commonest one, followed by skull fracture. 60 patients showed abnormal intracranial findings. There was significant correlation of skull fracture and abnormal intracranial findings in this study. Conclusion This study provided the normal and abnormal CT findings in head of the craniocerebral trauma patients in Dhulikhel Hospital. Abnormal CT findings were predominantly extra-cranial and were overlapping with intracranial abnormal findings. KEY WORDS CT, Craniocerebral trauma, skull fracturePublication Correlation between Preoperative High Resolution Computed Tomography (CT) Findings with Surgical Findings in Chronic Otitis Media (COM) Squamosal Type(Kathmandu University, 2017) Karki, S; Pokharel, M; Suwal, S; Poudel, RABSTRACT Background The exact role of High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) temporal bone in preoperative assessment of Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease still remains controversial. Objective To evaluate the role of high resolution computed tomography temporal bone in Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease and to compare preoperative computed tomographic findings with intra-operative findings. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted among 65 patients with chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease in Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kathmandu University Dhulikhel Hospital between January 2015 to July 2016. The operative findings were compared with results of imaging. The parameters of comparison were erosion of ossicles, scutum, facial canal, lateral semicircular canal, sigmoid and tegmen plate along with extension of disease to sinus tympani and facial recess. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive values were calculated. Result High resolution computed tomography temporal bone offered sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of 100% for visualization of sigmoid and tegmen plate erosion. The performance of HRCT in detecting malleus (Se=100%, Sp=95.23%), incus (Se=100%,Sp=80.48%) and stapes (Se=96.55%, Sp=71.42%) erosion was excellent. It offered precise information about facial canal erosion (Se=100%, Sp=75%), scutum erosion (Se=100%, Sp=96.87%) and extension of disease to facial recess and sinus tympani (Se=83.33%,Sp=100%). high resolution computed tomography showed specificity of 100% for lateral semicircular canal erosion (Sp=100%) but with low sensitivity (Se=53.84%). Conclusion The findings of high resolution computed tomography and intra-operative findings were well comparable except for lateral semicircular canal erosion. high resolution computed tomography temporal bone acts as a road map for surgeon to identify the extent of disease, plan for appropriate procedure that is required and prepare for potential complications that can be encountered during surgery. KEY WORDS Cholesteastoma, high resolution computed tomography, temporal bonePublication Correlations Between Symptoms, Nasal Endoscopy Computed Tomography and Surgical Findings in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis(Kathmandu University, 2013) Pokharel, M; Karki, S; Shrestha, BL; Shrestha, I; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Although Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is increasing in prevalence and incidence, its diagnosis and treatment still pose a challenge. The Task Force on rhinosinusitis (TFR) advocates the use of symptom based criteria. However, many otorhinolaryngologists depend on diagnostic nasal endoscopy and computed tomography(CT) of paranasal sinuses for diagnosis of CRS. Computed tomography has been extensively relied upon in confirming the presence of CRS, in assessing severity of disease, surgical planning and management decisions. Despite its widespread use, several studies have failed to correlate findings on CT with symptom severity. Objective To determine the correlations between symptoms described at presentation, radiological findings, endoscopy and extensiveness of surgery. Methods Longitudinal, prospective, analytical study conducted from August 2011 to August 2012 among 87 patients diagnosed as CRS according to the TFR criteria. Symptom, endoscopic, radiological and surgical scoring was done by using Lund and Mackay staging system. Pearson correlation coefficients between scores for symptoms, endoscopy, sinus CT and surgery was determined. Results When overall symptom score was correlated with radiological score and endoscopy score, it was found to be statistically significant (p= <0.01). However, no significant relationship was found between Lund and Mackay symptom and surgery score. Conclusion The symptom criteria used by TFR for CRS diagnosis are not very specific for sinus disease. A detail assessment of the subjective and objective criteria (CT and endoscopy) is necessary for tailoring surgical plan but should not be relied upon for determining the extensiveness of surgical intervention. KEY WORDS Chronic rhinosinusitis, lund and mackay staging system, task force on rhinosinusitisPublication Determination of Sex from the Foramen Magnum using 3DCT: A Nepalese Study(Kathmandu University, 2017) Singh, PK; Tamrakar, D; Karki, S; Menezes, RGABSTRACT Background Identification is of utmost importance in any medicolegal investigation with sex determination being one of the principle indicators of identity. Sexing of bones becomes easy when the skeletal remains are complete. However, the problem arises when the bones are fragmented. Many researchers have undertaken several studies in different populations to determine the sex with reasonable accuracy using numerous measurements of the skull including those of the foramen magnum. Objective The present study was aimed to find the sexual dimorphism of the foramen magnum in the Nepalese population by analyzing the antero-posterior length, transverse diameter and area of the foramen magnum. Method The antero-posterior length and transverse diameter of the foramen magnum were measured using three-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) images of the head in a cohort of 100 Nepalese subjects. Radinsky’s and Teixeria’s formulae were used to calculate the area of the foramen magnum. Discriminate function analysis was used to analyze sex differences. Result Mean values of antero-posterior length and transverse diameter of the foramen magnum in males were higher than in females. The mean of the area calculated using Radinsky’s formula was smaller than that calculated by Teixeira’s formula and the areas calculated were higher in males. The measurements of the foramen magnum and the areas calculated showed significant difference (p<0.001) between males and females. Discriminate function analysis for the measurements of the foramen magnum and the areas calculated showed high predictability for both the sexes. Discriminate function analysis showed a maximum predictability of 75%. Conclusion Considering the percent of predictability of sex from the various variables related to the foramen magnum in the Nepalese population, it can be concluded that its restricted applicability in forensic investigations should be constrained to cases of fragmentary skull bases. KEY WORDS Foramen magnum, forensic anthropology, identification, sex determination, sexual dimorphismPublication Effectiveness of nicotinic acid and bezafibrate alone and in combination for reducing serum triglyceride level(Kathmandu University, 2005) Pradhan, B; Neopane, A; Karki, S; Karki, DBObjective: To study the effectiveness of nicotinic acid and Bezafibrate alone and in combination for reducing triglyceride level. Design: It was a randomised, prospective, longitudinal study. Setting: Patients attending a private clinic, and medical department of Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal. Methods: This study included 83 consecutive patients, 19 females and 64 males with hypertriglyceridaemia (defined as serum triglyceride >200mg/dl) attending the department of medicine, Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal and private clinic. Main outcome measures: Statistically significant reduction of serum triglyceride level. Result: 51 out of 83 patients completed the study in which Nicotinic acid alone reduced the serum trygleceride level from 320.62 ± 104.23 to 182.55 ± 46.21, which is a reduction of 138.07 ± 85.69 (P. value = 001). Bezafibrate when given alone also reduced triglyceride level significantly from 345.25 ± 181.03 to 203.30±93.59 which is a reduction of 141.95 ± 121.130 (P value= .001). When a combination of both drugs was given the reduction of 472.73±247.53 (P value =.002) was achieved. Conclusions: Nicotinic acid is a very effective drug in reducing serum triglyceride level and its effectiveness is similar to Bezafibrate. There is no added benefit of giving a combination of nicotinic acid and Bezafibrate in reducing serum triglyceride level. Keywords: Hypertriglyceridaemia, Nicotinic acid, Bezafibrate. Abbreviations: TG= Triglyceride, TC = Total cholesterol, HDL= High density lipoprotein, LDL= Low density lipoprotein NCEP-ATP III= National Cholesterol Education Programme-Adult Treatment panel 111Publication Imaging in Infertile Female Patients Who Underwent Hysterosalpingography Investigation at Dhulikhel Hospital(Kathmandu University, 2016) Karki, S; Suwal, S; Tamrakar, SR; Poudel, RABSTRACT Background Fallopian tube and uterine abnormalities are the most common cause of female infertility, accounting for 30% of cases. Hysterosalpingography is the safe, minimal invasive radiographic technique for evaluation of uterine cavity and fallopian tubes defects. The purpose of the study was to assess the various uterine and tubal abnormalities leading to infertility Objective To assess the abnormalities in uterus and fallopian tubes detected on Hysterosalpingography (as causative factors of infertility in a tertiary care centre for proper decision making in treatment. Method This is the prospective cross sectional study done in department of radiology Dhulikhel hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital between January 2015 to January 2016 with complain of infertility. Hysterosalpingography was performed using ionic contrast medium (10-20 ml of 76% urograffin) under digital fluoroscopy. Radiographic films were obtained and analyzed. Demographic data and radiological findings were reviewed and the obtained data analyzed with SPSS version 16. Result Out of the total 100 patient, 75 had primary infertility while 25 had secondary infertility. The age ranged from 19 to 43 years with mean age of 27.75 years. Normal Hysterosalpingography findings were seen in 37% cases. Tubal abnormalities were seen in 34%, uterine abnormalities in 23% and both tubal and uterine abnormalities in 6% patients. The most common tubal abnormality detected on Hysterosalpingography was tubal block 75%. Out of the 30 patients who had tubal block, unilateral block was noted in 76.7% patients whereas bilateral block was noted in 23.3%. Hydrosalphinx was seen in 25% cases with tubal abnormality. Among the 29 cases with various uterine abnormalities, bicornuate uterus 9% was the most common abnormality Conclusion Hysterosalpingography is an easily available radiographic procedure that can demonstrate a wide variety of uterine and tubal abnormalities for the initial assessment of infertility which can avoid unnecessary and sometimes more aggressive procedures. KEY WORDS Hysterosalpingography, hydrosaphyinx, infertility, tubal blockPublication Multi-Detector Computed Tomography Evaluation of Normal Appendix(Kathmandu University, 2016) Suwal, S; Karki, S; Mandal, D; Poudel, RCABSTRACT Background Appendix is a blind-ended tubular structure arising from caecum, with variable intraluminal contents and position. Acute appendicitis is one of the common indications for emergency radiological investigation. Objective To assess visualization rate, size and position of normal appendix by Computed Tomography (CT). Method This cross-sectional observational study was done in 198 individuals undergoing abdominal CT without suspicion of acute appendicitis and without any pathology localized within right iliac fossa. Axial and coronal reformatted images of non- enhanced and contrast enhanced CT of abdomen were evaluated for visualization of appendix. Visualized appendices arising from caecum were traced and tip localized. Contents within the appendicular lumen were also evaluated and maximum transverse diameter of appendix measured. The relationship between appendicular diameter, intraluminal content and position with different age groups & gender were also derived. Result Visualization rates of appendix were 90% (93% male and 87% female) in non- enhanced CT and 97% (99.8% male and 95.4% female) in enhanced CT. The mean diameter of the appendix was 6.2 ± 1.16 mm. Most common location of the tip of appendix was pelvic position, followed by retrocaecal position. Most of the appendices showed intraluminal air. Conclusion Multi-Detector Computed Tomography is superior over ultrasonography (USG) in detection of appendix. Modifications of CT protocol reduce limitations of CT over ultrasound in evaluation of appendix. Ultrasound size criteria for appendicitis (>6 mm) is not applicable in CT as normal appendix can measure >6 mm in CT. KEY WORDS Diameter, location, normal appendix, multi-detector computed tomographyPublication Nuchal Translucency in Normal Fetus and Its Variation With Increasing Crown Rump Length (Crl) and Gestational Age(Kathmandu University, 2013) Karki, S; Joshi, KS; Tamrakar, SR; Regmi, S; Khanal, KABSTRACT Background Nuchal translucency (NT) is the fluid collection behind the fetal neck which can be measured by ultrasound at 11-14 weeks of gestation. Increase in the nuchal translucency thickness is associated with various congenital anomalies. Objective To study the relationship between nuchal translucency thickness, crown rump length and gestational age in normal fetus. Methods Prospective analytical study conducted on 211 pregnant women from March 2011 to August 2012. Measurement of Nuchal translucency thickness and crown rump length was performed by ultrasound at 11-14 weeks of gestation. The relationship between nuchal translucency thickness, crown rump length and gestational age was studied by using linear regression analysis. Results The mean CRL was 63.67+13.48mm (range 41.2-88mm) and mean NT thickness was 1.55+0.35mm (range 0.8-2.7mm), respectively. The median gestational age was 12.9 weeks. The regression equation which shows relation between median NT thickness and CRL was described as follows: expected NT thickness = 0.013CRL+0.725, (R2 = 0.258, p <0.001). There was increase in the incidence of NT thickness more than or equal to 2.5mm; 1.7% in fetus between 12-12.9 weeks of gestation to 15.1% in fetus between 14.0-14.9 weeks. Conclusion Our study offers normative data of NT thickness in normal fetus, which can be used as reference to screen various chromosomal and congenital abnormalities between 11- 14 weeks of gestation. NT thickness increased with increasing CRL and a false positive rate increases with increasing gestational age. KEY WORDS Crown Rump length, gestational age, nuchal translucencyPublication Perceived Health Promoting Education Needs of Middle-aged Population in Dhulikhel Municipality of Nepal(Kathmandu University, 2017) Karki, S; Koirala, PABSTRACT Background Health promoting education need assessment is of utter importance while conducting health promoting education programs. However little efforts have been put on this by the policy level authorities and there are no studies to assess the perceived health promoting education needs of the middle aged population of Nepal till date. Objective The objective of this study was to assess the perceived health promoting education needs of middle-aged population in Dhulikhel municipality. Method A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 respondents using two staged cluster and systematic technique. Face to face interview technique was used for data collection. T-test was used for comparison of dependent variables with independent variables. Result The study revealed that the mean education need score was 66.66±16.09 (in a score of minimum 25 and maximum 125). Cancer prevention was perceived as the topic of highest education need and retirement planning as the topic of least education need. There was statistically significant difference in the mean perceived education need score between male and female (p=0.048), respondents with exposure and non-exposure to health related programs on mass-media (p=0.020) and mental component summary score <50 and mental component summary scores >=50 (p=0.048). Conclusion This study suggested that the community people have perceived moderate level of health promoting education need. Since cancer prevention was the highest rated topic followed by chronic illness prevention and dementia, it is recommended to focus on these topics while organizing any health promoting education programs in the community. KEY WORDS Health promotion, health promoting education, perceived needsPublication Perceptions and Attitudes towards Evidence Based Practice among Nurses and Nursing Students in Nepal(Kathmandu University, 2015) Karki, S; Acharya, R; Budhwani, H; Shrestha, P; Chalise, P; Shrestha, U; Gautam, K; Wilson, LABSTRACT Background As the evidence based practice (EBP) movement expands, there is a need for health leaders and educators in each country to assess the extent to which health professional students and practitioners are prepared to locate, evaluate, and apply evidence to guide their practice. Objective The study objective was to explore nurses’ and nursing students’ perceptions and attitudes towards EBP. Method This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey administered to all 273 nurses and nursing students from Nepal who attended an EBP conference. The survey instrument that was used by Majid in Singapore was adapted for use in this study with permission from the author. Result In total, 121 nurses participated in the study. The majority (93%) of respondents reported that they had no previous training in EBP. The respondents’ perceptions of their EBP knowledge and skills were variable, but most of them demonstrated positive attitudes toward EBP. Respondents identified a number of barriers that limit the implementation of EBP in Nepal. The greatest barriers were lack of time and resources, difficulty understanding research articles and translating the findings to practice, and limited autonomy to change practice based on evidence. Conclusion Although respondents had positive attitudes towards EBP, their knowledge and skills were limited and barriers to implementation existed. Nursing faculty can use the findings to guide implementation of EBP into curricula, and nursing administrators and clinicians can use the findings to guide practice to promote EBP. KEY WORDS Evidence-based nursing, evidence-based practice, nursing researchPublication Prevalence of Anatomical Variations of the Sinonasal Region and their Relationship with Chronic Rhinosinusitis(Kathmandu University, 2016) Karki, S; Pokharel, M; Suwal, S; Poudel, RABSTRACT Background Precise knowledge of anatomic variations of nose and paranasal sinus complex is essential for achieving best surgical results during endoscopic sinus surgery. Computed tomography is the gold standard investigation for evaluation of paranasal sinuses and adjacent structures. Objective To study prevalence of anatomical variations of nose, paranasal sinuses and osteomeatal complex and to identify a probable association between anatomical variations and chronic rhinosinusitis. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted in 218 patients with Chronic rhinosinusitis in Department of Radiology, Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital between January 2015 to January 2016. Volumetric axial CT scan was done in 128 slice CT scanner in 3mm thickness from frontal sinus to floor of maxillary sinus with thin multiplanar reconstruction. Radiological findings were reviewed and obtained data analyzed with SPSS version 16. Pearson chi square test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used for statistical analysis. Result The most common anatomical variation was pneumatized agger nasi cells followed by concha bullosa and deviated nasal septum respectively. Statistical significance were seen between ipsilateral agger nasi cell and frontal sinusitis (p< 0.001), ipsilateral haller cell and concha bullosa with maxillary sinusitis (p<0.001) and onodi cell with sphenoid sinusitis (p<0.001), However, no obvious statistical correlation was noted between deviated nasal septum with ipsilateral maxillary sinusitis. Conclusion Precise knowledge of anatomic variations of the paranasal sinuses is important in chronic rhinosinusitis to prevent possible complications during surgery. Computed tomography is the modality of choice in evaluation of paranasal sinuses and adjacent structures. KEY WORDS Chronic rhinosinusitis, computed tomography, osteomeatal complexPublication Risk Factors for Pneumonia in Children under 5 Years in a Teaching Hospital in Nepal(Kathmandu University, 2014) Karki, S; Fitzpatrick, AL; Shrestha, SABSTRACT Background Pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality among children under-five years of age globally. The WHO (2014) has reported that indoor air pollution caused by cooking and heating with biomass fuel, living in crowed homes and parenting smoking are risk factors of pneumonia. Objectives The objective of the study was to identify the risk factors for pneumonia among children under-5 years of age. Methods A case control study was carried out among the mothers having under-5 years children who were admitted in the paediatric ward of Dhulikhel Hospital in 2012/13. A convenience sampling technique was used to select 50 children with pneumonia and 150 children with non-pneumonia diseases matched on age, sex and setting. A semi-structured interview consisting of questions related to risk factors for pneumonia was used to collect data from mothers of both cases and controls. Results Sex of the child did not differ by case/control group whereas the children with pneumonia were slightly older with 26% cases and 15% controls older than 3 years of age. Mother’s education was similar in both groups as was family income. Living in a household with a chulo with smoke increased the odds of having pneumonia significantly, with the risk almost 4 times greater if the chulo was located within the same building (OR: 3.76, 95% CI: 1.20-11.82, p=0.02). Children who had diarrhea in the past 3 months were protected from pneumonia (OR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.18- 0.82, p=0.01). An increasing trend of pneumonia was observed among children of tobacco smoking parents with greater risk if both parents smoked; it was, however, not statically significant (OR: 2.21, 95% CI: 0.56-8.82, p=0.26). Conclusion The present study suggests that two factors related to smoke, presence of a smoky chulo in a household and both parents smoking, are modifiable risk factors related to pneumonia in young children. Reliable longitudinal studies, interventions, and programs to educate parents in prevention are important for reducing mortality and morbidities related to acute respiratory illnesses in Nepal. KEY WORDS Mothers, pneumonia, risk factors, under 5 childrenPublication Role of Ultrasound as Compared with ERCP in Patient With Obstructive Jaundice(Kathmandu University, 2013) Karki, S; Joshi, KS; Regmi, S; Gurung, RB; Malla, BABSTRACT Background The diagnosis of obstructive jaundice relies on proper history taking, clinical examination, laboratory investigations and different non invasive imaging modalities like Ultrasonography (USG), Cholangio Computed Tomography (CCT), Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) with Magnetic Resonance Cholangio Pancreatography (MRCP) and invasive modalities like endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) and percutaneous trans hepatic cholangiography (PTC). Objective To compare the role of ultrasound with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and to determine the major causes of obstructive jaundice in our prospect. Methods This was a prospective, analytical study conducted on 88 patients presenting to Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging at Dhulikhel Hospital-Kathmandu University hospital from March 2011 to August 2012 with clinical diagnosis of obstructive jaundice. Sonographic evaluation was performed in Siemens acusion x-150 and x-300. The final diagnosis was made by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and /or surgery and confirmed histopathologically. Results The most common benign causes of obstructive jaundice were choledocholithiasis (63%), CBD stricture (12.3%), cholangitis (8%) and pancreatitis (6.85%) whereas cholangio carcinoma (6.85%) and carcinoma head of pancreas (4%) comprised of the malignant causes . Ultrasonography had sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 89% in detecting choledocholithiasis. It was found to be 98.78% sensitive and 83.33% specific in cholangiocarcinoma. Similarly in pancreatitis, the sensitivity of ultrasonography was 97.59% and sensitivity was 66.67%. Conclusion Ultrasonography acts as a valuable diagnostic imaging modality in detecting the causes of obstructive jaundice. Due to its easy availability, non invasive nature and cost effectiveness, it can be considered as the first line imaging technique/ tool. ERCP is the invasive imaging tool and can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purpose. KEY WORDS ERCP, obstructive jaundice, ultrasonographyPublication Seroprevalence of anti HCV antibodies among blood donors in Kathmandu valley, Nepal(Kathmandu University, 2008) Karki, S; Ghimire, P; Tiwari, BR; Rajkarnikar, MAbstract Aims and objectives: To study the seroprevalence of anti HCV antibodies among Nepalese blood donors in relation to their age, sex, type of donation and times of donation. Materials and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS), Central Blood Transfusion Service (CBTS), Kathmandu, from December 1, 2006 to September 1, 2007. A total of 33,255 blood donors were screened for anti HCV antibodies by ELISA. Donor’s information was collected from blood donor’s record form and statistical analysis was done using the software ‘SPSS 11.5’ and ‘Winpepi ver. 3.8’. Result: The seroprevalence of anti HCV antibodies in blood donors was 0.66% (95% CI= 0.58-0.76). Higher seroprevalence was observed in male donors (0.7%, 95% CI= 0.6-0.8) than in female donors (0.4%, 95% CI= 0.2-0.6) (P < 0.05). The seroprevalence was highest (0.82%) in the age group of 21-30 years and there was signi cantly decreasing trends in seroprevalence with increasing age (P < 0.05). The highest seroprevalence among the male donors (0.88%) was also observed in the age group of 21-30 years (P < 0.001). Among female donors the seroprevalence (0.47 %) was highest in age group 41-50 years (P > 0.05). The seroprevalence of anti HCV was signi cantly higher in volunteer donors (0.7%) than in replacement donors (0.4%) (P < 0.05). Similar seroprevalence of anti HCV was observed in rst time (0.65%) and repeat blood donors (0.67%) (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The seroprevalence of anti HCV antibodies among blood donors in this study was similar to the seroprevalence reported for general population by other studies. Similar seroprevalence in rst time and repeat blood donors as well as higher seroprevalence in volunteer donors than in replacement donors are the potential threats to safe blood supply, which urges the need of more effective donor education and counselling of blood donors. Key words: Seroprevalence, Anti HCV antibodies, Blood donors, Kathmandu valley, Nepal.Publication Sonographic Measurement of Fetal Pinna Length in Normal Pregnancies(Kathmandu University, 2011) Joshi, KS; Chawla, CD; Karki, S; Shrestha, NCABSTRACT Background Many studies have emphasized on fetal pinna measurements and morphologic features to use this structure as an additional marker for fetal chromosomal anomaly. Objectives To assess relationship between fetal pinna length and gestation age and develop a nomogram. To assess relationship between fetal pinna length and head circumference and biparietal diameter. Methods Fetal pinna measurements from the tip of helix to the end of lobe were obtained prospectively in 850 singleton pregnant women between 15 and 40 weeks’ gestation Normal case was defined as normal sonographic findings during examination and normal infant examination at birth or both. Final study population was 787. The relationship between gestational age in weeks to pinna length in millimeters was analyzed by simple linear regression. Correlation of fetal ear length measurements with gestational age, biparietal diameter and head circumference were also obtained. Results Linear relationships were found between fetal pinna length and gestational age [Pinna Length (mm)=1.044xGestational age (weeks) -3.857]. A nomogram of normal pinna length was obtained. High correlation was found between pinna length and gestational age (r=0.942; p< 0.001), pinna length and head circumference (r=0.931; p< 0.001). Significant correlation was found between pinna length and biparietal diameter (r=0.934; p=0.004) Conclusions The results of this study provide a nomogram for fetal pinna. The study also provides relationship and good correlation between pinna length and other biometric measurements. KEY WORDS gestational age, pinna length, sonographyPublication Sonography in Acute Ureteric Colic: An Experience in Dhulikhel Hospital(Kathmandu University, 2014) Joshi, KS; Karki, S; Regmi, S; Joshi, HN; Adhikari, SPABSTRACT Background Computed tomography is considered as an imaging modality of choice in acute ureteric colic. However due to concerns regarding radiation exposure, sonograms are re-emerging as imaging methods in such situations. Objectives To evaluate the role of sonography in detection of calculus in acute ureteric colic. Methods Total 384 patients were enrolled. Hydronephrosis was graded as mild, moderate or severe. Calculus was detected as an intraluminal echogenic focus with distal shadowing with twinkling artifact. Number, size and position of the calculi were assessed. Patients were categorized into four groups:I. ureteric colic only II. ureteric colic with hematuria III. ureteric colic with hydronephrosis and IV. ureteric colic with hematuria and hydronephrosis and then the possibility of detection of calculi has been compared among these groups. Results Out of 384 patients, 254 were found to have calculi ranging between 2.7-27mm. Nineteen had in the pelvis/ pelviureteric junction, 64 in proximal ureter, 125 in distal ureter, 6 at iliac crossing and 40 at vesicoureteric junction. Two hundred forty one had single and 14 had multiple calculi. Calculus detection is easier in category III and IV patients. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonography were 87.98% and 93.07%. Degree of hydronephrosis is strongly correlated with the number of calculi but weakly correlated with the size of the calculus. Conclusion Sonogram can be used in all cases of acute ureteric colic. Hydronephrosis is the most important finding because it paves the way out for the detection of calculus. KEY WORDS Calculus, hydronephrosis, sonography, ureteric colicPublication The Role of Argyrophilic Nucleolar Organizer Region (AgNOR) Study in Cytological Evaluation of Fluids, Especially for Detection of Malignancy(Kathmandu University, 2012) Karki, S; Jha, A; Sayami, GABSTRACT Background Serous effusion smears reported as “suspicious for malignancy” pose problems in clinical management. Silver staining for argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNOR) has proved useful in making a cytopathologic differential diagnosis between benign and malignant cells. Nucleolar organizer regions(NORs) are loops of DNA located in acrocentric chromosomes. These NORs are visualized by silver staining technique that recognizes these argyrophilia associated proteins which are increased in malignancy. Objective This study aimed to distinguish reactive mesothelial cells from malignant cells in serous effusions using these NORs. Methods A total of 174 serous effusions received at the Department of Pathology, TUTH, during a period of one year were included in the study. Smears were studied by conventional Papanicolaou and Giemsa stains. AgNOR counts, variation in size and dispersion of AgNOR dots in smears were graded and compared in malignant and non-malignant effusions. Results Mean AgNOR counts of 10.43±0.73 and 10.21±0.51 in malignant peritoneal and pleural effusions, respectively, were significantly (p<0.0001) greater as compared with counts of 2.12±0.54 and 2.11±0.54 in non-malignant effusions. The AgNORs were irregular in shape in malignant effusions whereas they were comparatively larger, single dots in benign effusions. AgNOR size and dispersion were of higher grade in significantly greater proportion of malignant as compared with non malignant effusions (p<0.0001). Of the cytologically suspicious samples, nine were in the malignant range and one was in the benign range. Conclusion AgNOR study appears to be clinically useful as an additional diagnostic tool for use in serous effusion when the cytologic diagnosis is difficult. KEY WORDS AgNOR , cytology, effusions