NepMed Repository :: Browsing Journal of Nepal Health Research Council by browse.metadata.dateaccessioned

Journal of Nepal Health Research Council

Permanent URI for this Journal

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14572/7

Journal of Nepal Health Research Council (JNHRC) an official, internationally peer reviewed, Pubmed Indxed, biomedical journal of the Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) since 2002. It is published three monthly and publishes articles on the following category: Original Article, Review Article, Case Report, Viewpoint and Letter to the Editor and others. URL : www.jnhrc.com.np

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 36

Clinicopathological Profile of Dengue Infection in a Tertiary Care Centre in Nepal
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Thapa, Bibechan; Pandey, Aakriti; Gautum, Santosh; KC, Sajana; Chhetri, Prabha Devi; Pokhrel, Estory; Poudel, Sangeeta; Shankar, P Ravi
Abstract Background:Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease with a wide spectrum of presentations ranging from subclinical disease to severe dengue. Dengue is endemic to the Terai of Nepal. Interestingly, an increasing incidence has been reported from hilly areas like Kathmandu valley. This study explored the clinicopathological profile of dengue infection. Methods:A total of 84 serologically confirmed dengue cases from September to November 2019 at KIST Medical College were recruited in a cross-sectional study after obtaining ethical approval. Dengue was categorized as dengue without warning signs, dengue with warning signs, and severe dengue. Clinicopathological information was recorded in the proforma by reviewing patients’ records. A descriptive statistical tool and chi-square test were carried out. Results: Out of 84 patients, 76% (64) were dengue without warning signs, 21.4% (18) were dengue with warning signs and 2.4% (2) were severe dengue. About 97.6% (82) presented with fever. During the course of illness, anemia was identified in 38.1% (32), thrombocytopenia in 65.5% (55), hemoconcentration in 6% (5), and leucopenia in 82.1% (69). Similarly, elevated aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase (ALT) was observed in 67.7% (42) and 53.2% (33) respectively. The severity of dengue on presentation to hospital was significantly associated with thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, and elevated ALT. Similarly, the severity during course of illness in hospital was significantly associated with hemoconcentration, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, and elevated ALT. Conclusions: Most common presentation of dengue infection was fever. The most common laboratory abnormalities were leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, hemoconcentration, anemia, and elevated liver enzymes. Awareness of these clinical and laboratory parameters is important for the prompt diagnosis, severity estimation, and overall management of dengue infection. Keywords: Biochemical; dengue; hematological; Nepal; serological
Electro-physiological Changes in the Central Nervous System by Visual Evoked Potential in Diabetic Patients
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Malla, Neha; Mahotra, Narayan B; Shrestha, Lava; Joshi, Sajun Narayan; Gurung, Sanyukta
Abstract Background: Increasing sedentary lifestyle in today’s world has increased the prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus. Loss of vision due to diabetic retinopathy is a major public health burden. Visual evoked potential identifies the neuronal degenerative changes in chronic metabolic disorders specially Diabetes Mellitus. The study aimed at evaluating changes in visual evoked potential waves in diabetic patients. Methods: This is a cross sectional comparative study consisting of 90 participants, out of which 60 were diabetic patients and 30 were non-diabetic control group. Among diabetic patients, 30 were without retinopathy, 10 with mild non-proliferative retinopathy, 10 with moderate non-proliferative retinopathy and 10 with severe non-proliferative retinopathy. Visually evoked potential latencies and amplitudes were compared among diabetic patients and the control group and also among individuals with different grades of retinopathy. Results: Delay in P100 latency and decrease in its amplitude were statistically significant in diabetic patients. The changes in P100 latency, P100 amplitude and N75 latency were also significant in different grades of retinopathy. Conclusions: There are statistically significant changes in visually evoked potential in diabetes patients. Visual evoked potential is a useful, non-invasive investigation which can establish the central nervous system neuropathy in diabetes at an early stage of the disease. So Diabetic retinopathy can be prevented due to early detection of neuropathy by visual evoked potential test Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; diabetic retinopathy; visual evoked potential
Suicidal Ideation Among Medical and Nursing Students
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Atreya, Alok; Nepal, Samata; Menezes, Ritesh G; Marhatta, Anu; Ghimire, Sristi; Shah, Palak
Abstract Background: Suicidal ideation is a major predictor of suicide attempts. The present study was conducted to compare the prevalence of suicidal ideation and its risk factors among medical and nursing students in Nepal. Methods: An online survey was carried out among a cohort of medical and nursing students of Lumbini Medical College using questions derived from General Health Questionnaire-28 and Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Results:153 medical and 148 nursing students participated in the study. Lifetime suicidal ideation was present in 20.6%(n=62) medical and 13.95%(n=42) nursing students. Suicidal ideation in the last one year was present in 48 medical and 36 nursing students. There were higher odds of suicidal ideation in medical students who had parental neglect, psychiatric disorder, physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, and academic performance dissatisfaction (p<0.05), whereas the odds were higher in nursing students with psychiatric disorder, parental demands, alcohol consumption, and academic performance dissatisfaction but was not statistically significant. Thematic analysis of the responses for open-ended question for reasons for previous suicide plans or attempts among four medical and eight nursing students revealed relationship issues, history of adverse childhood experiences, academics-related circumstances, and other individual problems as suicide antecedents. Conclusions: Periodic motivational speeches and counselling sessions during all the semesters of professional schooling would help decrease suicidal ideation. Mental health awareness programs for medical and nursing students should be aimed at reducing mental illness-associated stigma and promoting timely professional help-seeking behavior. Keywords: Medical students; Nepal; nursing students; suicidal ideation
Prevalence of Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy in Far-western Province of Nepal
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Bhatta, Subash; Pant, Nayana; Pant, Suresh Raj
Abstract Background: Although diabetes is emerging as growing public health problem, there is limited population based data about the prevalence of the disease in Nepal. Methods: This cross-sectional population-based survey, conducted in the Far-western province of Nepal from April 2020 to April 2021, used standardized RAAB + DR methodology. Diabetes was diagnosed on the basis of treatment history and random blood sugar test results of greater than 200 mg/dl. Diabetic retinopathy screening was done by ophthalmologists. All relevant data were imported into the RAAB software package (RAAB V.6) for analysis. Results: Among 4615 study population, 2.8 % (n=129) had diabetes, and 35.7% (n=46) of the diabetics were newly identified cases. Of the known diabetics, 61.4% (n=51) never had an eye examination, and only 27.7% (n=23) of cases had their eye checked for DR in the last year. Fundus examination showed 13.2 % (n=17) of the diabetic patients to have some form of diabetic retinopathy and 6.2% (n=8) had diabetic maculopathy. Only 0.8% (n=1) of the cases were categorized as sight-threatening DR but a greater number of diabetes patients had severe visual impairment or blindness (3.9%) as compared to non-diabetic patients (1.8%). Conclusions: Prevalence of diabetes and DR were relatively lower in Far-western Nepal. However poor coverage of screening examinations have left many of these cases undetected in the communities. Effective community-based diabetes and DR screening and referral programs can help to detect and treat diabetes and DR early on to prevent vision loss and other diabetic complications. Keywords: Diabetes; diabetic retinopathy; maculopathy; rural Nepal, vision Impairment
Spectrum of Thyroid Disorders in Patients with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Ghimire, Sandip; Sangroula, Prativa; K.C., Indu; Deo, Rajeeb Kumar; Ghimire, Sapana; Dhonju, Kiran
Abstract Background: Diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders are the two most common endocrine disorders and they mutually affect each other. There are very few researches from Nepal that have evaluated the association of type-2 diabetes mellitus and thyroid dysfunction. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and spectrum of thyroid dysfunctions among type-2 diabetes mellitus patients. Methods: This was cross-sectional study conducted among 204 type-2 diabetes mellitus patients visiting the internal medicine department of a tertiary center located in Kathmandu, Nepal. Results: The prevalence of thyroid disorders in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus was 27.94%. Subclinical hypothyroidism, which occurred in 14.71% of patients, was the most common thyroid disorder. The longer duration of diabetes, more than ten years, was associated with the increased thyroid disorders (p=0.025). The poor glycemic control, HbA1c ≥ 7%, was associated with significantly increased prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in type-2 diabetes mellitus patients (p=0.002). Female patients had higher prevalence of thyroid disorders than males, but this association was not statistically significant. Conclusions: The higher prevalence of thyroid disorders among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus highlights the importance of screening type-2 diabetes mellitus patients for the presence of thyroid disorders. Keywords: Hyperthyroidism; thyroid disorders; Type-2 diabetes mellitus
Investigating the Efficacy and Safety of Diacerein in the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis with reference to its conventional management
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Shrestha, Rohit; Tamrakar, Sudichhya; Koju, Pramesh; Maharjan, Sagar; Malla, Subhechhya; Shrestha, Sony Shakya
Abstract Background: Designated as a “priority disease” by World Health Organization, Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic rheumatic disease. Providing a proper treatment for Osteoarthritis is still a major public health challenge. Diacerein has been proposed as a slow acting, symptom modifying or even disease modifying drug used in Osteoarthritis having a risk-benefit ratio far better than conventionally used drugs. However, the evidence of efficacy and safety of use of Diacerein in Osteoarthritis is yet to be explored. Hence, this study attempted to investigate the efficacy and safety of Diacerein in the management of knee osteoarthritis. Methods: This is an analytical cohort study comparing Diacerein with Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for two months in the management of knee OA. Efficacy was assessed by scores of Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score – Physical Function Short form and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. Results: After two months of treatment, the post- treatment scores were significantly superior to the baseline scores in both the treatment groups (p<0.001). There were no significant differences among the post-treatment scores in two different treatment groups (p>0.05). Discoloration of urine and gastritis were the frequently reported adverse effects in Diacerein treatment group and Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs treatment group respectively. Conclusions: Our findings have shown Diacerein is as effective as Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in treating knee OA patients. Diacerein was generally well tolerated, with a good safety profile. These findings indicate the need for further studies with experimental study design in larger scale. Keywords: Diacerein; Efficacy; Knee Osteoarthritis; NSAIDs; Safety
Day One Drain Amylase as a Predictor of Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula Following Pancreaticoduodenectomy
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Pradhan, Sumita; Kandel, Bishnu; Bhandari, Ramesh Singh; Lakhey, Paleswan Joshi
Abstract Background: Postoperative pancreatic fistula remains the most challenging complication following pancreaticoduodenectomy. As per the definition by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula, post operative pancreatic fistula is diagnosed on or after postoperative day 3. However, several studies have demonstrated that drain fluid amylase on postoperative day 1 may be a better predictor. This study was conducted to determine the diagnostic value of day one drain amylase in predicting the development of post-operative pancreatic fistula. Methods: This was a prospective observational study of patients, who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between April 2016 and May 2017. Post operative pancreatic fistula was defined by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula (2005) criteria. The diagnostic value of day one drain amylase was determined by doing a receiver operating curve analysis and compared with the postoperative day 3 value. Results: A total of 49 patients were included. Post operative pancreatic fistula developed in 28 patients (Grade A - 40.8%; B - 12.2%; C - 4.1%). Receiver operating curve analysis confirmed the predictive relationship of day one drain amylase with an area under the curve of 0.79 and kappa 0.5. For clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula, day 3 drain amylase was the better predictor (AUC for DFA3 was 0.73 while AUC for DFA1 was 0.51). A day one drain amylase cut-off value of 350 U/L demonstrated a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 77.8% with an accuracy of 76.2%. Conclusions: Day one drain amylase predicts postoperative pancreatic fistula in patients following pancreaticoduodenectomy but for clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula, day three drain amylase is a better predictor. Keywords: Amylase; drain fluid amylase; pancreaticoduodenectomy; Pancreatic fistula
Laparoscopic Appendectomy versus Open Appendectomy in Acute Appendicitis
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Paudyal, Sanjaya; Shah, Surendra; Giri, Niraj
Abstract Background: Appendectomy is the most common emergency surgical procedure performed. Appendectomy is performed by either open or laparoscopic methods. However, there is lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate method. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic and open appendectomy in the treatment of acute appendicitis. Methods: Fifty-two patients undergoing appendectomy were analyzed in this prospective comparative study, with 26 patients each in laparoscopic and open group. The outcomes were measured in terms of operative time, postoperative pain at 4, 6 and 12 hours, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications according to modified Clavien Dindo classification and cost analysis. Results: Laparoscopic group had longer time after completion of surgery till exit from operation theatre (30 min in laparoscopic and 20 min in open, p<0.01) and significantly higher cost (Nrs. 26295 for laparoscopic and Nrs. 19575 for open, p<0.01) than open appendectomy. Operative time, time from entering operation theatre till being kept in operation table, time from being kept in operation table till initiation of anesthesia, postoperative pain at 4,6 and 12 hours and postoperative complications were insignificant in both groups. Conclusions: The results suggest that laparoscopic appendectomy group had longer recovery time after operation and was costlier than open appendectomy. Thus, the decision of the operative procedure can be based on the patient’s preference. Keywords: Appendectomy; laparoscopic appendectomy; open appendectomy
Clinical, Bacteriological Profile and Outcome of Neonatal Sepsis
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Siwakoti, Shraddha; Sah, Rinku; Singh, Rupa Rajbhandari; Khanal, Basudha
Abstract Background: Sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among neonates in Nepal. This study was conducted to determine the clinical-bacteriological profile, their antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and clinical outcome of culture-positive neonatal sepsis. Methods: This was a prospective study conducted at B.P Koirala Institute of Health Sciences from July 2018 to June 2019. Neonates with clinically diagnosed sepsis having blood culture positive were included in the study. Blood samples culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed with the standard microbiological method. Demographic, clinical information, and clinical outcomes were documented. Results: The incidence of culture-positive sepsis was 10.3% (183/1773) of neonatal admissions. Poor feeding 85(46%) and fever 68(37%) were the common clinical features at presentation. The incidence of early-onset sepsis and late-onset sepsis were found to be 116 (63%) and 67(37%) respectively. Staphylococcus aureus was the common pathogen in both early-onset 61(49%) and late-onset 34(41%) sepsis. The incidence of multidrug-resistant cases was 41% (75/183) with 20% (15/75) extensively drug-resistant gram-negative bacilli, 36% (20/75) multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacilli, and 44% (33/75) Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cases. In-hospital mortality rate was 12 (7%) with a higher frequency in multidrug-resistant sepsis 92% (11/12) than non- multidrug-resistant 8% (1/12). The median hospital days were longer in multidrug-resistant cases than non- multidrug-resistant [11(9-13) verses 3(2-5)]. Conclusions: The incidence of multidrug-resistant pathogens causing neonatal sepsis is high at our hospital and are associated with more in-hospital mortality and longer hospital stay. Implementation of effective preventive strategies to combat the emergence of antimicrobial resistance is immediately needed. Keywords: Bacteriological profile; incidence; MDR; neonatal sepsis; outcome
Lung Ultrasound in Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Manandhar, Sagun
Abstract Background: Interstitial lung disease denotes a group of disorders which mainly affects pulmonary interstitium consisting of connective tissue fibers that support the lungs. High-resolution computed tomography is currently the main imaging modality of diagnosis, however except for few major cities in the country, availability of computed tomography scan facility is sparse in remote areas; thus relevant use of lung ultrasound in patients with suspected interstitial lung disease could be rewarding. Methods: A single center cross-sectional clinical diagnostic study was carried out at department of Radiology and Imaging, Patan Academy of Health Sciences after approval from institutional review committee. Lung ultrasound was done prior to patients undergoing high-resolution computed tomography chest. Senstivity, specificity, positive predictive value , negative predictive value , and accuracy of different echographic criteria–positive chest area score, total B lines score 5 and total B lines score 10 were calculated. Association of non-homogeneity of B lines and pleural line abnormalities with presence of interstitial lung disease, and association between B3 and B7 lines with alveolar and interstitial pattern were derived. Results: Sensitivity (97.4%) and negative predictive value (97.9%) of total B lines score 5 was the highest. Maximum specificity (70.7%), PPV (61.4%) and accuracy (77.2%) was ofpositive chest area score. Pleural line abnormalities showed highly significant association with interstitial lung disease(p=0.003). B3 and B7 lines illustrated very highly significant association with alveolar and interstitial pattern respectively (p<0.001). Conclusions: Lung ultrasound can be a valid and reliable additional imaging method in evaluation of ILD in appropriate clinical scenario. Keywords: B lines; high-resolution computed tomography; interstitial lung disease; lung ultrasound
Outcomes Of Microincision Pars Plana Vitrectomy In Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Subedi, Santosh; Thapa, Raba; Pradhan, Eli; Bajiyama, Sanyam; Sharma, Sanjita; Duwal, Sushma; Poudel, Manish; Poudyal, Govinda
Abstract Background: With the technological advances, microincision pars plana vitrectomy is commonly used method for primary treatment of eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Objective of this study is to evaluate anatomical and visual outcomes of microincision pars plana vitrectomy in eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Methods: This was a hospital based prospective observational study done in Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, Kathmandu, Nepal. All consecutive cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who underwent primary microincision pars plana vitrectomy from October 2020 to March 2021 were included in the study. Patients were evaluated at baseline, postoperative day 1, 1 week, 6 weeks and 3 months. Outcome measures evaluated were anatomical results, visual outcomes and complications of the surgery. Results: Forty-nine eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treated with primary microincision pars plana vitrectomy with minimum follow up of at least 3 months were evaluated. Anatomical success was achieved in 91.8% of cases (45/49). Baseline mean best corrected visual acuity was logMAR 1.63±0.88 and median best corrected visual acuity was 2.00 (range 0.00 to 2.70) while at 3 months follow up mean best corrected visual acuity was logMAR 1.22±0.66 and median BCVA was 1.00 ( range 0.00 to 2.70). There was significant improvement in median BCVA ( p= 0.005). There were no cases of postoperative hypotony and endophthalmitis. Other complications were also minimal such as silicon oil in anterior chamber in 1 eye, epiretinal membrane in 3 eyes and macular hole in 2 eyes. Conclusions: Microincision pars plana vitrectomy is an effective surgical method of primary treatment for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with good anatomical and visual outcomes with minimal complications. Keywords: PPV; RRD; visual outcome
Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Emergency Department Admissions and Outcome
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Tiwari, Jagannath; Paudel, Pramod; Adhikari, Sujan; Lamichhane, Sharmila; Basnet, Anjali; Subedi, Kirtipal; Bhattarai, Pratiksha; Paudel, Prajwal
Abstract Background: Emergency Department admissions have changed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding this variation may play a crucial role in rearranging hospital resources for better outcome. In this study, we aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on emergency department admission and outcome. Methods: This is a cross-sectional retrospective study conducted at Bharatpur Hospital, Nepal comparing pre- pandemic data of the 4 months (March 24 to July 21, 2019) with the initial 4 months of the pandemic (March 24 to July 21, 2020). Results: Admission in emergency ward decreased during covid period among female admission (47%vs43%), age-group(0-14)(18%vs12%), Dalit(17%vs11%) p<0.0001.Diagnosis increased during covid for acute abdomen(11%vs13%), animal and insect bite(10%vs13%), psychiatric illness(2%vs6%),poisoning and drug over dose(0.9%vs2.6%)(p<0.0001).The odds for referral(cOR 3.62,95% CI:2.70-4.84), Left against medical advice(cOR 6.03,95% CI:.06-8.94) and death(cOR 3.28,95% CI:1.64-6.68) increased during the covid respectively. Conclusions: There was decrease in rates of emergency department utilization during the Covid-19 pandemic. Admissions due to trauma, gastrointestinal, respiratory, neurological, musculoskeletal and coronary artery disease showed a decline whereas psychiatric disorders, diabetes and hypertension, animal and insect bites cases increased. Overall, mortality rate was increased. Keywords: Admission; Covid-19; emergency department
Comparison of Volunteer Non-Remunerated Donors and Replacement Donors
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Gurung, Numaya; Shakya, Basu; Rai, Ganesh; Shrestha, Deependra
Abstract Background: There are mainly two types of blood donor in Nepal i.e., Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor and Replacement Donor. The main aim of this study is to compare between Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor and Replacement Donor. Methods: This is retrospective and cross-sectional study conducted in the blood transfusion Service, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. The study was conducted on both Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor and Replacement Donor who came to blood transfusion Service and voluntary blood donation program. All the blood donors donating in blood transfusion Service were considered as the study population. Results: Out of total 25951 donors, there were 15565(60.02%) Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor and 10386(39.97%) Replacement Donor. On the whole, there were 21938(84.59%) male donors and 3995(15.40%) female donors. The male Replacement Donor was 14273(93.12%) followed by a male Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor 7582(73.71%). The female Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor was 2703(67.65 %) followed by female Replacement Donor 1292(32.34 %). Conclusions: This study concludes that the Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor is quite low, in comparison to Replacement Donor. 100 % Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donor could not be achieved due to lack of awareness about health and voluntary type of blood donation. Keywords: Blood donation; replacement donors; voluntary non-remunerated donors
Prevalence and Severity of Amlodipine-induced Gingival Enlargement
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Rajkarnikar, Junima; Dahal, Samarika; Vaidya, Samriddhi; Ghimire, Pratikshya
Abstract Background: The administration of several classes of drugs; anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, and calcium channel blockers can cause gingival enlargement. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency and severity of gingival enlargement in patients taking calcium channel blocker drug amlodipine. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 250 patients who visited the dental hospital at Nepal Medical College between November 2021 to April 2022. Using the Bokenkamp and Bornhorst Index, the patients who had been on amlodipine for at least three months were examined for gingival enlargement. Along with gingival and plaque index, medication dosage and duration were also assessed. Results: The prevalence of gingival enlargement was 37%. Grade 1 gingival enlargement was present in 18% while grade 3 was seen in only 2%. Both individuals taking amlodipine alone and in combination with other antihypertensive drugs showed the same level of gingival enlargement. The dose and duration of amlodipine ingestion showed a significant correlation with the enlargement. The gingival and plaque index also showed a strong correlation with overgrowth. Conclusions: The physicians prescribing amlodipine should well inform the patients about the potential side effects. In such cases, the maintenance of oral hygiene should be prioritized from the beginning. In severe cases, substitution of the drugs followed by oral therapeutic measures should be considered for complete regression. Keywords: Amlodipine; gingival enlargement; prevalence; periodontology
Genotype-Phenotype Profile of Beta-thalassemia
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Roma, Km; Pande, Rajan; Shrestha, Durga Laxmi
Abstract Background: Beta thalassemias are extremely heterogenous hereditary monogenic blood disorders and preventable genetic hemolytic anemia caused by >200 mutations in HBB gene. In Nepal, it is more prevalent in Tharu tribe but it seen in other communities as well. Out of more than 200 mutations of beta globin gene, approximate 20 different alleles are responsible for >80% of the mutations. Mutations vary in different geographic population and are responsible for manifestation of different phenotypes. This study was done to find common mutations of HBB gene in Nepal which were responsible for different phenotypic manifestations and to know clinical severity according to the mutations. Methods: This was a descriptive, cross sectional study conducted in the pediatric and medicine department of Nepalgunj Medical College and Bheri Zonal Hospital, Nepalgunj from January 2020 to December 2020. The genotype and phenotype profiles of thalassemia cases were reported. The data was analyzed by SPSS 20. Results: The results obtained showed that clinical presentation differed with different β-globin gene mutations present. Individuals with HBB:c.47G>A and HBB:c.20A>T/ c.79G>A mutations showed milder presentation than those with HBB:c.47G>A/-619del and HBB:c.20A>T/c.47G>A. Conclusions: Therefore, these findings can be used to predict clinical severity so that we can take appropriate measures by early genotype identification for prenatal diagnosis of beta thalassemia. Keywords: Genotype phenotype; prenatal diagnosis; thalassemia
Efficacy and Safety of Intralesional Immunotherapy with Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative among Cutaneous Wart Patients
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Shrestha, Sanju Babu; Bhusal, Mohan; Jwarchan, Jayanti; Gautam, Sujan; Shrestha, Prashanna Raj
Abstract Background: Cutaneous warts are common skin problems caused by Human Papilloma Virus. Conventional therapies are mostly ablative and limited by recurrences and side effects. Immunotherapy using bacterial, fungal, and viral antigens is an emerging and safer technique to treat warts at local and distant sites. The objective of this study was to measure the efficacy and safety of intralesional immunotherapy with tuberculin purified protein derivative among cutaneous wart patients in the dermatology department of a tertiary care centre. Methods: A cross sectional, time series design, was conducted between October 2019 and September 2020 among 77 patients of cutaneous warts attending Dermatology out-patient department using convenience sampling. Percentage response was evaluated for patients treated with tuberculin purified protein derivative for eight weeks at an interval of two weeks into complete response (100% clearance), partial response (50-99% clearance), no response (0-49% clearance). Side effects were also recorded. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20.0 was used for data analysis. Results: Out of 77 patients, complete response (100%) was seen in 53.2% patients, partial response (50-99%) in 14.3% and no response (0-49%) was seen in 32.5%. Side effects noted were pain and erythema (19.50%), blisters (2.60%) and flu like symptoms (1.30%). Conclusions: Intralesional PPD is an effective and safer therapeutic option for the treatment of cutaneous warts. Keywords: Immunotherapy; intralesional injections; purified protein derivative of tuberculin; warts
Prevalence of Microalbuminuria in Non-diabetic Hypertensive Patients and its Correlation with Changes in Left Ventricular and Left Atrial Characteristics
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Bhusal, Khema Raj; Devkota, Surya; Pathak, Surya; Khanal, Pratik; Khanal, Umesh; Thapalia, Poojan; Neupane, Srijana; Gyanwali, Pradip; Simkhada, Rabindra; Oli, Krishna Kumar
Abstract Background: Microalbuminuria is urinary albumin excretion in the range of 30-300 mg per 24 hours and is considered as an abnormal albumin excretion rate. Microalbuminuria is associated with epithelial dysfunction and have a high risk for target organ damage resulting in stroke, retinopathy and adverse cardiovascular events. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria in non-diabetic hypertensive patients and its correlation with cardiovascular changes. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was done in 107 participants diagnosed as non-diabetic hypertensive patients visiting to Manmohan Memorial medical college and Teaching hospital and Manmohan Cardio-thoracic Vascular and transplant Centre. The assessed parameters were basic metabolic profile, urine evaluation and Echocardiography. Results:The results showed microalbuminuria in 28 study participants and not seen in 79 participants. Similarly, microalbuminuria was observed more comparable in those with presence of left ventricular hypertrophy as compared to the absence of left ventricular hypertrophy (29.3% versus 22.8%) (p value 0.469); those with presence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction as compared to the absence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (31.1% versus 19%) (p value 0.170) and those with dilated left atrium as compared to normal left atrium (26.7% versus 23.9%) (p value 0.820). In case of left ventricular ejection fraction, those with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (26.3%) had slightly higher proportion of micro-albuminuria than those with mild to moderate left ventricular systolic dysfunction (20%) (p value= 0.755) Conclusions: There was no significant difference in the level of micro-albuminuria between non-diabetics, hypertensive patients with cardio vascular changes compared to patients with no cardiovascular changes. Keywords: Hypertension; microalbuminuria; non-diabetic
Prescribing Pattern of Antibiotics among Hospitalized Patients with Urinary Tract Infection
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Shrestha, Deepti; Sapkota, Jyotshna; Poudel, Rekha; Gurung, Rashmi Shakya; Aryal, Kiran
Abstract Background: Urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide. It has become one of the most common cause for the hospitalization and sepsis. It is generally treated with antimicrobial agents and fluids. This study was conducted to study the prescribing pattern of antibiotic among hospitalized patients with urinary tract infection. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital, Attarkhel, Kathmandu from January 2022 to April 2022. Patients aged 18 years or above of both sex, admitted to various departments with the provisional diagnosis of urinary tract infection prescribed with antibiotics were included in the study. Results: Out of 146 patients admitted with a diagnosis of urinary tract infection, the most commonly prescribed antibiotics during hospital stay were cephalosporin in 102 (69.9%) patients followed by combination of penicillin and beta-lactamase inhibitors (31, 21.2%) and fluoroquinolones (15, 10.3%). Ceftriaxone (78, 53.4%) alone was the most commonly prescribed antibiotic as empirical therapy followed by combination of piperacillin and tazobactam (22, 15.1%). One hundred and forty four (78.6%) patients were prescribed antibiotics from the watch group followed by the access group (21, 11.5 %). E. coli was the most common organism isolated in 29 (76.3%) patients. Conclusions: Cephalosporin was the commonest antibiotic group prescribed in hospitalized patients among which ceftriaxone was commonly prescribed as an empirical therapy. Among AWaRe classification, antibiotics from the watch group were commonly prescribed. Keywords: Antibiotics; ceftriaxone; urinary tract infection
Ultrasound versus Nerve Stimulator Guided Obturator Nerve Block in Patients Undergoing Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Baral, Bidur Kumar; Poudel, Puspa Raj; Rajbhandari, Mona; Karki, Anuj Jung; Dhakal, Gaurav Raj
Abstract Background: Urinary bladder cancer is more common in geriatric population. Transurethral resection of bladder tumor remains the mainstay of treatment. It is usually performed under subarachnoid block. However, obturator nerve is spared in subarachnoid block that can produce adductor jerk, which is associated with bladder injury, rupture, incomplete resection of tumor and hematoma. To overcome this jerk, selective obturator nerve block is commonly performed. Thus, we conducted this study to compare the efficacy of ultrasound and nerve stimulator-guided techniques for obturator nerve block. Methods: This is a prospective, comparative study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. Sixty patients, scheduled to undergo Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor for lateral and posterolateral wall bladder cancer under subarachnoid block were enrolled and divided into two group having thirty patients in each groups. Group I received 15 ml of 0.25% Bupivacaine to block obturator nerve by using peripheral nerve stimulator. Group II received the same amount of Bupivacaine to block obturator nerve under ultrasound guidance. We evaluated the success of the block, ease of the procedure and complications. Results: The adductor reflex was present in 23.33% of cases with nerve stimulator guided obturator nerve block, whereas, it was16.66% in ultrasound guided technique (p=0.75). The success rate of obturator nerve block was 76.66% in nerve stimulator guided technique, whereas 83.33% in ultrasound guided technique (p= 0.21). 83.33% of obturator nerve block was found to be easy in nerve stimulator guided technique, whereas 66.66 % in ultrasound guided technique (p = 0.14). There were no major complications noted. Conclusions: The findings of this study conclude that both ultrasound and nerve stimulator guided techniques equally abolished the adductor reflexes. Both techniques are easy to perform and safe. Keywords: Bladder tumor, obturator nerve block, adductor reflex
Genodermatoses Picture: Difficulties Faced And Way Forward in Nepal
(Government of Nepal; Nepal Health Research Council; Ramshah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2022) Parajuli, Niraj; Baskota, Rabindra; Jain, Ritu
Abstract Genodermatoses are group of genetic disorders that present with cutaneous manifestations. The exact prevalence on many of these conditions are unknown due to its rarity, need of specialized tests for diagnosis and lack of proper reporting system. Most of the patients are faced with life-long disability and associated stigma. There is a need for specialized centers for proper diagnosis of these conditions and a very elaborated yet simple reporting system in Nepal. These rare conditions should be kept in priority by the government in align with the sustainable development goals to ensure healthy-lives and promote well-being for all. A wider engagement of patient-led support groups might be useful in providing necessary information on the disease to the general population and alleviate the stigma associated with these diseases. Keywords: Epidermolysis bullosa; genodermatoses; rare diseases; Nepal

Browse

Browsing Journal of Nepal Health Research Council by browse.metadata.dateaccessioned

Results Per Page

Sort Options