Ambedkar Medical College Research Articles

Prevalence and risk factors of anemia in under five-year-old children in children’s hospital

Background: Anemia is a global public health problem affecting both developing and developed countries with major consequences for human health as well as social and economic development. This study is conducted to assess the proportion of children, aged between 6 months to 5 years having anemia and risk factors of iron deficiency anemia among selected children with anemia. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in 500 children between the age of 6 months to 5 years, who were admitted (in patients) to the Department of Pediatrics of Dr. BR Ambedkar Medical College, Bangalore, were selected and screened for anemia by hemoglobin estimation. This study was carried out from November 2012 to April 2014. Among those children with hemoglobin <11 g/dl, were screened for iron deficiency anemia (Serum ferritin estimation is done). Among these 500 children, 100 children with a hemoglobin level of 11 gm/dl and serum ferritin <12 μg/L were taken up for detailed study. All the collected data was tabulated and statically analysed by using appropriate methods Results: 77.8% of screened children were found to have anemia. In studied children 38% had mild anemia, 54% had moderate anemia and 8% had severe anemia. Male outnumbered than female in the ratio of 1.17:1. More than 50% presented with acute gastroenteritis.79% of anemic children had malnutrition. 24% of anemic children were low birth weight. Dimorphic anemia was common in 6months to 5 years age group. Mean hemoglobin level was 9.26. Mean ferritin, mean serum iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation was 7.23 μg/l, 52.60μg/dl, 346.89mg/dl and 16.31% respectively Conclusions: The diet deficient in iron and other essential nutrients is the single most important cause of anemia in children of this age Diarrhea was the chief associated symptom in more than half the cases studied. Hence it is essential to make provision for safe drinking water and to improve sanitary facilities periodic deworming measure is advised, to reduce parasitic infestation which also contributes to the development of anemia.

An Analytical Study of 118 Hanging Cases Autopsied at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Suicidal tendencies are increasing at an alarming rate all over the world. Hanging is one of the common method of committing suicide and is considered as a painless form of death. This prospective study was conducted among victims of hanging brought to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar medical college mortuary, Bengaluru during June 2016 to December 2016. A total of 118 cases of alleged hanging were selected for this prospective study. The pattern of hanging revealed from this study showed a male predominance. The maximum number of cases were in the 21 to 30 years age group. Overall the most common ligature material used for hanging was saree and dupatta. Hanging was typical in 06 cases (5.08%) and atypical in 112 cases (94.91%). Salivary dribble marks was seen in 29 (24.57%) cases and protrusion of tongue present in 37 (31.35%) cases. The direction of ligature mark was oblique in 105 (88.98%) cases and transverse in 13 (11.01%) cases. Ligature mark was above the thyroid cartilage in 92.37% cases and over the thyroid cartilage in 7.62% cases. Hyoid bone fracture was noted in 05 cases and thyroid cartilage fracture was seen in 01 case.

Study of blood donor profile in a blood bank attached to a medical college hospital - a retrospective study

Background: Blood Transfusion Services (BTS) are the vital part of modern health care system without which efficient medical care is impossible. To make blood donation safe and increase the confidence of the masses in voluntary blood donation, many safety measures are implemented by the blood transfusion community. The most important of all safety measures is donor selection. Stringent, meticulous and serious donor screening is necessary to afford protection to blood donors and recipients. Aim & Objectives: The aim of this study was to document the current rate and reasons for donor deferral in our tertiary care Centre. Materials and Methods: This retrospective record based study was carried out for whole blood donors at Dr. B R Ambedkar Medical College Hospital Blood bank. Results: In our study the majority of the registered donors were replacement donors (92.2%). Total 2556 people registered for donating blood during the study period (5 years), of whom 2140(83.7%) were males. 176 donors were deferred by medical officer based on detailed medical history and brief physical examination of donors with regard to hemoglobin (Anaemia), blood pressure (hypertension), temperature (hyperthermia/fever), and pulse irregularity and rate. The majority of donors were deferred for temporary reasons (61.3%) and others were permanently deferred. Conclusion: The donor deferral rates and reasons for deferral for blood donation are important issues to be highlighted among blood donors, general public, in the blood banks and hospitals. We can add a significant number of donors by recruiting back a large number of temporarily deferred donors by remotivating them after addressing the reason for deferral.

Prescribing pattern of drugs in alcohol dependence in a tertiary care hospital

Background: Alcohol dependence is one of the more serious public health issues in the world. It not only affects health but is also a social and economic burden. Pharmacotherapy is the main stay of treatment along with behavioural therapy for alcohol addiction. The present study was done to analyse the prescribing pattern of drugs used in alcohol dependence.Methods: The present study is a retrospective study which was carried out in the Department of Psychiatry, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College, Bengaluru from March 2016 to August 2016. Demographic, disease and treatment details were collected and entered in the case proformas. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics.Results: A total of 125 prescriptions were analyzed. The most common age group was between 30-60 years with a male predominance (95.2%). 72% of patients were treated for alcohol dependence whereas 28% who had other co morbidities like psychosis and depression were treated appropriately. The most commonly prescribed drugs were Vitamins (74.4%), Benzodiazepines (BZDs) (56.8%), anti-craving drugs (52%), antipsychotics (20%) and anti-depressant drugs (8%). Lorazepam (45.6%) and Baclofen (46.1%) were the most common drugs prescribed among BZDs and Anti-craving drugs respectively. For affective disorders Olanzapine (36%) was the commonest drug prescribed.Conclusions: This study reveals that alcohol dependence is accompanied by other co-morbidities like psychosis, depression and anxiety. Combined therapy of Vitamins, BZDs, Anti-craving drugs along with Antipsychotic or Antidepressant drugs have been prescribed to the patients. Newer anti-craving drugs like Baclofen, Acamprosate and Naltrexone have also been prescribed.

Outcome of Close Diaphyseal Fracture of Both Bones Forearm in Adult Treated by Well Fitting Intramedullary (Square) Nail & Dynamic Compression Plate: A Comparative study

Background: The achievement and maintenance of reduction of diaphyseal fractures of forearm are hindered by deforming muscular forces. The aim of this study to compare the results of close diaphyseal fracture of both bones forearm in adult treated by well-fitting intramedullary (square) nail & dynamic compression plate. Material & Methods: The present study comprised of 60 patients with close fracture both bones forearm belonging to either sex of adult age group, treated in the department of orthopedics, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. All 60 cases included in this study underwent clinical and radiological examination at the time of admission; and type, site, displacement, rotation and angulation of fractures were determined. At follow up examination interval between injury & this examination was recorded & than clinical & radiological examination were carried out. Results: The present study showed that the mean age of patients was 35 yrs, male to female ratio was 3.6:1 and right side were more common as compared to left side, mostly patients had indirect injuries (55%). comparison of functional end result between Hadden et al4 different modalities of treatment and of our present study. Results of plating is comparable with Hadden et al4 sereis but Nailing is inferior. Conclusion: We concluded that functional end results to be excellent to good, plating is the best mode of treatment for fracture forearm bones as 83% excellent to good results had achieved but nailing also have comparable results as achievement of 76% excellent to good results.

Measurement of carotid intima media thickness, a marker of cardiovascular risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract Background Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a multisystem disease. In addition to the involvement of joints, eyes, pleura, less known are effects on the heart. This study aims to generate more data by measuring carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) in patients with RA. Methods A cross sectional study performed at Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital and Medical College, a tertiary care referral centre which included 80 patients with RA as cases divided further into 2 groups. Group 1 had 50 with disease duration more than 5 years while group 2 included 30 with duration less than 5 years. 40 healthy age and sex matched subjects were taken as controls. Cases and controls symptomatic for atherosclerosis or with risk factors for atherosclerosis were excluded. Both groups were subjected to carotid ultrasound examination. Results The study population included 90% females and 10% males. The mean CIMT of RA patients (0.6900 ± 0.197 mm) was significantly greater than the controls (0.3875 ± 0.082), p Conclusion Patients with RA exhibit premature atherosclerosis by way of increased CIMT, and hence are at increased cardiovascular risk as compared to age and sex matched controls.

To Study the Reasons Given by Mothers of Under 5 for not Attending the Pulse Polio Immunisation at Sultanpalya UHTC of Dr. B R Ambedkar Medical College, Bangalore

To Study the Reasons Given by Mothers of Under 5 for not Attending the Pulse Polio Immunisation at Sultanpalya UHTC of Dr. B R Ambedkar Medical College, Bangalore

Association between Muscle Mass and Body Mass Index in Elderly Diabetic Patients Attending Tertiary Care Center in Bangalore, India

Background: Sarcopenia is a disorder causing age-related loss of muscle mass. Its multifaceted nature has been linked to an increased risk of disability and mortality. Equally, obesity is a well-known risk factor for a host of disorders. A combination of sarcopenia and obesity in elderly diabetics can synergistically lead to increased insulin resistance and risk of metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to identify the association between sarcopenia and obesity in elderly diabetic patients by a cost-effective anthropometric method. Methods: A case-control study was conducted from January 2016 to April 2016 at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College in Bangalore. Height, weight, mid-arm circumference, and triceps skin fold thickness of 112 diabetic patients and 131 healthy adults were measured. Descriptive statistical analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were carried out. Results: 26.8% of male and 76.8% of female diabetic patients were obese (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2). Incidence of sarcopenia (muscle mass one standard deviation smaller than healthy reference population, cut-off value for diabetic males being <9.79 kg/m2 and for diabetic females <8.53 kg/m2) were 12.5% in male diabetic patients and 5.4% in female diabetic patients. Conclusion: Sarcopenia and obesity are co-morbid illnesses which can cause functional and metabolic impairments in elderly diabetic patients. There exists a moderate association between muscle mass and body mass index. Loss of muscle strength (dynapenia), rather than loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), is closely associated with disabilities in these patients.

Changes in pulmonary functions in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract Background Diabetes mellitus is characterized by various microvascular and macrovascular complications. Amongst the lesser known, is the involvement of respiratory system. Changes in pulmonary volume, diffusion and elastic properties of lungs leads to a restrictive pattern in lung functions. The present study was aimed to determine the changes in various parameters of pulmonary function tests amongst patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and their correlation with duration of disease. Methods Cross-sectional study was performed at Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital & Medical College in Delhi, a tertiary care referral centre which included 200 patients divided into 2 groups. The first group included diagnosed patients with diabetes and the second group included controls. Cases and controls symptomatic for any acute or chronic respiratory or cardiovascular illness or a history of smoking were excluded. Both groups were subjected to spirometry. Result In diabetics, the mean Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in first second (FEV1), Peak Expiratory Flow rate (PEFR) and the mean ratio of Forced Expiratory Volume in first second to Forced Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC) was 2.55 ± 0.66, 2.01 ± 0.48, 379.5 ± 72.4, 0.80 ± 0.08, respectively while that in non-diabetics was 2.94 ± 0.43, 2.37 ± 0.38, 411 ± 69.6, 0.81 ± 0.07, respectively. Conclusion The respiratory functions namely FVC, FEV1 and PEFR were found to be significantly decreased (P 0.05).

Event Monitoring in Patients Prescribed with Anti-tubercular Therapy

Tuberculosis is a chronic, granulomatous infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Multidrug resistance is a chronic problem associated with treatment of tuberculosis where a substantial proportion of tuberculosis cases reported in India are multi-drug resistant. Poor patient compliance plays a major role in development of resistance. The main objective of the study was to monitor the events associated with ATT in pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis patients and to achieve better patient outcomes by regular monitoring. This was a prospective observational study which analysed patients diagnosed with pulmonary and extra-pulmonary kochs’, attending inpatient and out-patient departments as well as registered under the RNTCP at Dr. B.R Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital for a period of 1 year for any events associated with ATT. Routine investigations which are carried out by the patient at the treatment initiation and whenever required were monitored. A total of 175 patients were monitored in the study out of which majority were males. Most patients were category 1 patients. More than one-third of the patient population reported an adverse event. Most ADRs were related to the GI system, followed by Skin Allergy. Most of the events (72%) were patient reported during physician visit while 26% were reported on investigation. The study found that ADRs has led to medication incompliance which leads them to discontinue the medication for a short duration. Close monitoring of these events from the treatment initiation should be emphasized to prevent medication in adherence. It is suggested that the establishment of pharmacovigilance programs in DOTS centres is essential.

Mortality Profile of Thermal Burns: A Postmortem Study in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College, Bengaluru

The present study is an epidemiological profile of the unnatural death cases resulting from burns brought to the mortuary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar medical college, Bengaluru over a four year period from January 2011 to December 2014. This study explores the age-gender distribution, socio-economic status, place of occurrence, survival period, smell of kerosene and status of clothes over the body, degree of burns, total body surface area involved, manner of death and cause of death. The results of this study provides the necessary information to develop proper burn prevention, thereby reducing the frequency of burns and burn related deaths. Language: en

Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy: A Hospital based cross sectional study

Introduction: Uncontrolled hypothyroidism is associated with serious maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity, and mortality. Overt hypothyroidism is defined as a clinical syndrome of hypothyroidism associated with elevated TSH and decreased serum levels of T4 or T3. Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined as a condition without typical symptoms of hypothyroidism, elevated TSH (>5 µU/mL), and normal circulating thyroid hormone. Material & Methods: The present hospital based cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College & Hospital, Bangalore. From the outpatient clinics, a total of 200 pregnant women of 1st trimester were selected in the study. Informed consent was taken from the study participants. Complete thyroid profile was done. Results: Mean age was found to be 23.6±2.5 and mean gestational age 8.2±2.6. Among the total study participants (n=200), the overall prevalence of hypothyroidism was 16.5% (n=33). Elevated TSH levels (>5mIU/ml) was found in 16.5% (33) of the study population. With regards to thyroid hormone levels, decreased levels of T3 & T4 were observed in 24.3% (08) and 75.7% (25) had normal levels of T3 & T4. Majority had subclinical hypothyroidism 75.7% (n=25) and 24.3% (n=8) had overt hypothyroidism. Keywords: Pregnancy, Hypothyroidism, Prevalence, Thyroid profile, Subclinical

Cytomorphology of vaginal pap smears-A spectrum of lesions in a tertiary hospital

Background: Pap test is an important and easy diagnostic tool to detect any abnormalities on vaginal cytology. It is routinely done in women of reproductive age group. In addition to detecting cellular and epithelial abnormalities; certain infections, rare entities including neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions can also be identified. Aims and Objectives: 1. To study the spectrum of abnormalities on vaginal pap cytology as per The Bethesda System (TBS) 2001.2. To study the utility of pap smears in early diagnosis of premalignant lesions. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College, Bangalore where routine pap smears referred from the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department were studied. Important clinical data like vaginal discharge, inter menstrual bleed, post–coital bleed and lower pain abdomen were collected. Pap smears were analysed, interpreted and categorised based on TBS2001. Importance of detecting premalignant lesions were highlighted in our study. Results: 525 pap smears were interpreted in a 2 year prospective study out of which 400 cases were analysed after excluding 125 unsatisfactory case. The age range was 18-78 yrs (mean age of 48 yrs). 120 (30%) cases of nonspecific inflammation were identified. Specific infectious etiologies included 186 (46.5%) cases range including most common candida and Bacterial vaginosis to 2 rare infections, one case each of filariasis and granulomatous cervicitis. Significant number(82 cases) of premalignant conditions were diagnosed. 12 malignancies-10 SCC and 2Adenocarcinomas were reported. Conclusions: Certain rare infectious entities were detected in our study which pose challenge due to infrequent occurance in our daily practice. Close follow- up and histological examination are necessary in premaligant lesions to avoid spread and untimely death of the patient. Thus emphasising effective utility of this simple and cost-effective tool. Keywords: Vaginal p

Study of Ligature Mark in hanging cases in Bangalore East Region

Hanging is the commonest method of committing suicide and is considered as a painless form of death. In hanging the appreciation of external signs particularly ligature mark plays a vital role. Hence a proper observation and study of ligature mark which the characteristic hallmark of hanging, needs greater emphasis. The ligature mark is a pressure abrasion on the neck at the site of the ligature which appears as a groove. This prospective study was conducted among victims of hanging brought to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College morgue, Bangalore during the period November 2010 to October 2012. A sum total of 232 cases brought with a history of hanging were selected for this prospective study. Atypical ligature marks with partial hanging outnumbered typical ligature mark with complete hanging. Single ligature mark above the level of thyroid cartilage with a breadth of 1to2cms is observed in the maximum number of cases. Majority of the ligature marks were prominent in their appearance. The colour of ligature mark was dark brown in one third of cases.

Prescription pattern of analgesics in orthopedics outpatient department at a tertiary care hospital

Background: Analgesics are the most common class of drugs prescribed for various conditions in the orthopedics outpatient department (OPD). This study is performed for a better understanding of analgesics prescribing pattern in orthopedics and to correlate the use of selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors, conventional non-steroidal anti-infl ammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and opioid analgesics in practice in the present scenario. Methods: The prescriptions from the OPD of Orthopedics at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College was reviewed between June 2013 and November 2013, entered in a pre-designed proforma. Pain was quantifi ed using numeric rating scale. The type of analgesics administered, whether monotherapy or combined therapy and the duration of therapy, was analyzed to obtain an overview of the current prescribing pattern. Results: A total of 300 prescriptions were analyzed. 800 drugs were prescribed with an average of 2.6 drugs per prescription. Of these, 62.3% were NSAIDs, 15.4% were opioid analgesics and 22.3% were gastroprotective agents. 61% of the NSAIDs were prescribed as monotherapy and 39% were prescribed as fi xed drug combination (FDC). The ratio of selective to non-selective NSAIDs is 1.3:1. Conclusions: The results of the present study show frequent use of selective COX-2 inhibitors, although non-selective NSAIDs topped the list of various selective NSAIDs, non-selective NSAIDs, and opioid analgesics. This suggests that gastrointestinal safety was an important concern while prescribing these drugs. Many FDCs were found to be irrational.

Prescription pattern of analgesics in orthopaedics OPD at a tertiary care hospital

Background: Analgesics are the most common class of drugs prescribed for various conditions in the orthopedics outpatient department (OPD). This study is performed for a better understanding of analgesics prescribing pattern in orthopedics and to correlate the use of selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors, conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and opioid analgesics in practice in the present scenario. Methods: The prescriptions from the OPD of Orthopedics at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College was reviewed between June 2013 and November 2013, entered in a pre-designed proforma. Pain was quantified using numeric rating scale. The type of analgesics administered, whether monotherapy or combined therapy and the duration of therapy, was analyzed to obtain an overview of the current prescribing pattern. Results: A total of 300 prescriptions were analyzed. 800 drugs were prescribed with an average of 2.6 drugs per prescription. Of these, 62.3% were NSAIDs, 15.4% were opioid analgesics and 22.3% were gastroprotective agents. 61% of the NSAIDs were prescribed as monotherapy and 39% were prescribed as fixed drug combination (FDC). The ratio of selective to non-selective NSAIDs is 1.3:1. Conclusions: The results of the present study show frequent use of selective COX-2 inhibitors, although non-selective NSAIDs topped the list of various selective NSAIDs, non-selective NSAIDs, and opioid analgesics. This suggests that gastrointestinal safety was an important concern while prescribing these drugs. Many FDCs were found to be irrational.

Ocular manifestations of dengue fever

Background: Dengue fever, borne by Aedes aegypti mosquito, is one of the most common and most prevalent forms of flavivirus infections in humans, endemic in tropics and warm temperate regions of the world. We report a spectrum of ocular manifestations of dengue fever along with its associated laboratory findings. Objective: To study the ocular manifestations associated with dengue fever. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in 120 patients hospitalized with diagnosis of dengue fever over a period of 6 months from April 2014 to September 2014. All patients underwent complete evaluation with respect to systemic examination, ophthalmic examination in Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. BR Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Result: A total of 120 patients were diagnosed with dengue fever; of which, 75 (62.5%) were men and 45 (37.5%) were women. Mean age was 32 years (20–60 years). Only 39 patients (32.7%) had complaints of retrobulbar pain in the eyes. Two patients (1.67%) had blurring of vision. Ocular findings were present in 68 patients (56.7%). Most common anterior segment findings were subconjunctival hemorrhage in 55 patients (45.8%). Posterior segment findings were present in 16 patients (13.3%); of which, 14 (87.5%) had retinal hemorrhages. Ocular changes had resolved in all the cases, which came for follow-up in 8–10 weeks. It was mostly attributed to the improving platelet count. Conclusion: The incidence of ocular complications in dengue fever is increasing, hence all patients with dengue should be referred to an ophthalmologist to prevent any sight-threatening complications.

English

INTRODUCTION: The most frequent reason for hospitalization for patients with diabetes is foot complications, which accounts for up to 25% of all diabetic admissions. The clinical triad most commonly seen in diabetic foot ulcer is peripheral sensory neuropathy, trauma and deformity. Approximately 15% to 20 % of the population in US is hospitalized with complications at some-time during course of their disease. Diabetic foot infections are defines as any inframalleolar infection in a person with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic patients may develop many types of foot ulcers, any of which can get infected. Infection should be diagnosed clinically on the basis of cardinal manifestations. Selection of antibiotic regimen initially involves decision about route of therapy, spectrum of microorganisms to be covered, and the specific drugs to administer and later involves choosing the definitive regimen and the duration of treatment. OBJECTIVE: 1. Early detection of risk factors for ulceration by specific history and systematic examination of the foot. 2. To study the microbial agents of wound infection in the diabetic foot infections. 3. To classify the ulcers, which facilitates in logical approach to treatment and in predicting outcome? 4. To formulate the management by multidisciplinary approach. 5. To describe the surgical treatment and wound care of diabetic foot ulcers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All the patients (Both out-patient basis and hospitalized patients) with diabetic foot ulcers of more than two weeks duration at Dr. B R Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital from November 2012 to February 2014 are counseled for investigation and treatment of diabetic foot ulcer and its complications. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: 1. The incidence of diabetic foot was seen highest in 51 to 60 years. 2. Male to female ratio was 4:1. 3. By occupation, most patients were farmers (44%). 4. Diabetic foot most commonly seen in patients with duration of diabetes more than 5 years. 5. Most common mode of presentation is non-healing ulcer followed by foot abscess. 6. Duration of hospital stay was between 15 days to 45 days with average of around 30 days.

A Study to evaluate the factors influencing on Family planning practices among urban married women in Bangalore

Introduction: Family planning is one of the fundamental pillars of safe motherhood and a reproductive right. The practice of family planning is influenced by socio-demographic factors, hence its variation between regions of the world and countries. It is pertinent to reposition family planning to accelerate the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality in less developed countries.Aim: To evaluate the factors influencing the family planning practices among married women. Study Design: It is a community based cross-sectional study. Study Area: Urban area of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College. Study Population: Married women in the reproductive age group of 15-45 years. Materials And Methods: 300 married women in the urban area of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College were interviewed and examined using a pre-tested and semi-structured questionnaire after obtaining informed oral consent. Married women were interviewed with respect to the socio economic status, educational status, age at marriage, married life, total number of children, usage of contraceptive methods, reasons for non usage.Results:35.35% were aged between 25-29 years of age. 59% were Hindus, 35.3%were Muslims and 5.7% were Christians. 71.7% were belonging to Nuclear families. 51.3% had secondary level of education.84% of women were housewives and were belonging to Class III (lower middle) socio-economic status. 36.66% had two living children Conclusion: 58.6% were currently using contraception.71.59% had undergone Tubectomy and none were found who had adopted Vasectomy.. Reasons for not using contraception for 56.48% was desire for more Children, 20.16% as need not felt, 10.48% as against religion and misconception about contraception and 0.80% as mother in law opposition, lack of information and fear of side effects.92.2% had negative opinion towards male sterilization and 57.4% gave reason for negative opinion as weakness will develop in males following male sterilization.

Drug-induced cutaneous adverse drug reactions in dermatology in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College

Background: Cutaneous adverse drug reactions (ADRs) affect 2-3% of hospitalized patients. The severity varies from mild itching to life-threatening Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). Hence, this study was undertaken to emphasize the need to report ADRs. Methods: The study was carried out in the Department of Dermatology in Dr. B.R Ambedkar Medical College Hospital from June to December 2012. Naranjo’s algorithm was used to determine the causality of an ADR. Informed consent was obtained from each patient, and thorough clinical examination was conducted. All the information was carefully recorded in a pre-designed proforma. To establish the etiologic agent for a particular type of reaction, attention was paid to the drug history, temporal correlation with the drug, duration of the reaction, morphology of the reaction, associated mucosal or systemic involvement, improvement of lesions on withdrawal of the drug. Results: In the present study, all the age groups were affected with cutaneous ADRs, with a higher incidence in age group between 31 and 40 years, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (41.66%) were most commonly observed drug, followed by anti-microbials (25%) and anti-convulsants (21.66%). Fixed drug eruptions (FDE) (46.66%) most commonly observed cutaneous reaction, followed by SJS (16.66%), erythema multiformae (16.66%) most commonly observed ADRs. Conclusions: ADRs are potentially avoidable causes for seeking medical care. FDE was most common ADR and NSAIDs were most common causative agents in our study. ADRs can be prevented by avoiding polypharmacy, obtaining history of any previous skin reaction and the causative agent.