Complete Blood Picture Research Articles

A Case Report on Viral Meningoencephalitis with Radiculoneuropathy

Meningoencephalitis is an inflammation of brain and its surrounding membranes. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and by various other etiology. Radiculoneuropathy, also commonly referred to as pinched nerve, refers to a set of conditions in which one or more nerves are affected. The classic triad of fever, stiff neck and altered sensorium are seen in <50% of all patients with meningitis. Clinical presentation of viral encephalitis includes a prodrome of fever, headache, myalgia, and mild respiratory infection. Altered mentation, focal neurological deficits and seizures usually follow. Patient was brought to emergency department of hospital. He provided with empirical anti-biotic therapy and supportive care. Laboratory investigation like CSF analysis, liver function test, renal function test. Blood test like complete blood picture, dengue Ag. Microbiological test was also carried out. Radiological imaging like MRI of Brain, MRI of spine, Chest X-Ray. Upon clinical diagnosis patient was provided with antibiotic, antiviral and supportive care. Patient was also provided with mechanical ventilator. He was treated for 14 days.
 Keywords: meningoencephalitis, CSF analysis, classical triad.

IMPACT OF BEETROOT (BETA VULGARIS RUBRA) AND/OR SWISS CHARD (BETA VULGARIS CICLA) JUICES ORAL ADMINISTRATION AGAINST BARIUM CHLORIDE-INDUCED HYPOKALEMIA, ATPASE DISTURBANCE, AND HEART AND LUNG TOXICITY IN RATS

Objective: The research designed to explore, for the 1st time, the probable antioxidant activity and protective effect of oral administration of beetroot (Beta vulgaris Rubra) and Swiss chard (B. vulgaris Cicla) juices against barium chloride (BaCl2)-induced toxicity in rats through investigating the changes on complete blood picture, heart and lung oxidative biomarkers, cardiac function tests, inflammatory markers as well as adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity, hypokalemia, and electrolyte disturbances.
 Methods: Seventy-five adult male albino rats of Sprague-Dawley strains (150±5 g) were divided into five groups (15/each) except healthy control group which contains 10 rats, and BaCl2 control group that contains 20 rats as follows: Group I: Healthy control; Group II: BaCl2 control, and Groups III, IV, and V: BaCl2 intoxicated groups supplemented with 1 ml of beetroot, Swiss chard, and combination of both juices, respectively/kg body weight 3 times per week orally.
 Results: Results explored that beetroot and Swiss chard juices contain significant amount of polyphenols and flavonoids as well as macro- and micronutrients that improved the complete blood picture, heart and lung oxidative stress parameters, cardiac function tests, inflammatory markers, ATPase activity, hypokalemia, and also electrolyte balance in supplemented groups compared to BaCl2 control group.
 Conclusion: This search illustrated that fresh beetroot and Swiss chard juices can improve various biochemical abnormalities resulted from BaCl2 toxicity. BaCl2 intoxicated rats that were supplemented with combination of juices showed the most significant improvements.

Carotid intima-media thickness, lipid profile, serum amyloid A and vitamin D status in children with familial Mediterranean fever

Aim of the workIt was to estimate the carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), lipid profile, serum amyloid A and vitamin D in Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) patients and to explore the relationship between CIMT and FMF. Patients and methodsThe study comprised forty-five FMF patients diagnosed during the attack free period and 40 healthy children with similar demographic features as control. The diagnosis of the FMF cases was confirmed by clinical, laboratory assessments and confirmed by the molecular diagnosis. The CIMT, lipid profile, complete blood picture, serum amyloid A (SAA) levels, vitamin D and the growth pattern were investigated. ResultsThe study showed no significant difference of CIMT among patients and controls, significant decrease of vitamin D levels, while lipid profile parameters, triglyceride (TG) to HDL-Cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio, serum amyloid A were significantly increased. A significant correlation was present between the CIMT with the serum cholesterol, low density lipoprotein and triglycerides as well as between SAA and the number of attacks. In addition, vitamin D levels showed significant negative correlation with colchicine. M694I mutation was the most prevalent among FMF patients. Growth parameters were normal in FMF cases. ConclusionThis study sheds light that the normal CIMT in the FMF patients makes it difficult to describe the children as having subclinical atherosclerosis although the higher TG/HDL ratio reflects their risk of atherosclerosis. Moreover, significant decrease of vitamin D in FMF patients was observed. The growth parameters of the FMF patients on regular treatment of colchicine were not affected.

The Antioxidant Activity of Avocado seeds on Immunosuppression induced by Cyclosporine in Rats

Avocado seeds are containing a variety of essential nutrients and important phytochemicals, exhibited potential antioxidant properties. This study aimed to assess the immune effect of avocado seeds against the Cyclosporine (CsA) immunosuppressive rat model. Twenty four male albino rats used in the experiment .Rats divided into equal 4 groups: (G1) was given basal diet as negative control group (-ve). (G2), received (CsA) (50 mg/kg/day subcutaneous in olive oil for 10 days) then given standard diet for 28 days as positive control group(+ve) .(G3) was fed on basal diet supplemented with avocado seeds powder (5%).(G4), received (CyA) (50 mg/kg/day subcutaneous in olive oil for 10 days) then given basal diet supplemented with avocado seeds powder (5%). The biological parameters were assessed including feed intake (FI), feed efficiency ratio (FER), and body weight gain (BWG). At the end of experimental period (28day) complete blood picture, Red blood cells (RBCs) and white blood cells (WBCs) were measured. Total serum immunoglobulins (IgG , IgA and IgM) and TNF-α were examined .Total protein and albumin were determined . Histopathological examination for spleen was done. Also the antioxidant enzymes (SOD,CAT and GPx) and MDA were assessed in spleen tissues The results indicated a significant decrease in BWG, FI, and FER in rats treated with CsA. Also showed that CsA caused decrease in RBCs, WBCs counts, hemoglobin, and platelets. CsA administration showed significant decrease in serum immunoglobulins and increase TNF-α. Furthermore increase in MDA and decrease in the antioxidant enzymes. Supplementation with avocado seeds powder with CsA ,improved activity of antioxidant enzymes in spleen tissue and serum immunoglobulins. The result indicated that, avocado seeds can improve the immune system against the CsA immunosuppressive rats. تحتوي بذور الأفوکادو على مجموعة متنوعة من العناصر الغذائية الأساسية والمواد الکيميائية النباتية الهامة ، والتي تظهر خصائص محتملة مضادة للأکسدة. هدفت الدراسة الحالية إلى تقييم التأثير المناعي لبذور الأفوکادو ضد نموذج الفئران المثبط للمناعة عقار السيکلوسوبرومين . تم استخدام أربعة وعشرين فأرا ألبينو في التجربة. قسمت الجرذان إلى 4 مجموعات: (مج1) ، أعطيت النظام الغذائي القياسي کمجموعة ضابطة سلبية ، (مج 2) حصل على السيکلوسبورين )50) مجم / کجم / يوم تحت الجلد في زيت الزيتون لمدة 10 أيام) ، ثم أعطي النظام الغذائي القياسي لمدة 28 يوما کمجموعة ضابطة إيجابية.( مج3 ) علي الوجبة القياسية مدعمة بمسحوق بذور الأفوکادو (5٪). (مج 4) حقنت بالسيکلوسبورين (50) ( مجم / کجم / يوم تحت الجلد بزيت الزيتون لمدة 10 أيام) ثم أعطيت الوجبة القياسية مدعمة بمسحوق بذور الأفوکادو (5٪). تم تقييم المؤشرات البيولوجية بما في ذلک الطعام المتناول ، ونسبة کفاءة التغذية ، وأوزان الجسم. في نهاية الفترة التجريبية (28 يوما) تم قياس صورة الدم الکاملة ، تم قياس خلايا الدم الحمراء (کرات الدم الحمراء) وخلايا الدم البيضاء. تم فحص الجلوبيولين المناعي الکلي في الدم والأجسام المناعية وتم تحديد البروتين الکلي والألبومين. تم فحص الأنسجة في الطحال. أشارت النتائج إلى انخفاض معنوي في الطعام المتناول ، ونسبة کفاءة التغذية ، وأوزان الجسم في الفئران المعالجة بـالسيکلوسوبرومين. وأظهرت أن السيکلوسوبرومين يقلل من عدد کرات الدم الحمراء وعدد کرات الدم البيضاء والهيموجلوبين في الدم والصفائح الدموية. أظهرت نتائج الحقن بعقار السيکلوسوبرومين انخفاضا کبيرا في الجلوبيولين المناعي في الدم والأجسام المناعية بالإضافة إلى زيادة المالندهاليد في أنسجة الطحال. المکمل بمسحوق بذور الأفوکادو مع السيکلوسوبرومين ، وتحسين نشاط الإنزيمات المضادة للأکسدة في أنسجة الطحال والجلوبولين المناعي في الدم. أشارت النتيجة إلى أن بذور الأفوکادو حسنت جهاز المناعة في الفئران التي حقنت بعقار السيکلوسوبرومين المثبط للمناعة.

Direct-Acting Antiviral Drugs and Occurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Unjust or Oppressed.

PurposeIn interferon-free era, direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have achieved high eradication rates with an excellent safety profile since revolutionized the management of hepatitis c virus (HCV) patients. Published papers have suggested a possible increased incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after successful DAAs treatment. Other papers have been published about the problem but without conclusive results. Because of this debate, we aim to evaluate the effects of antiviral therapy (Sofosbuvir plus Daclatasvir with or without Ribavirin) on the de novo occurrence of HCC in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC).Patients and MethodsA prospective cohort study has included 350 patients who have visited our center for HCV treatment. Pretreatment history, examination, complete blood picture, liver function tests, kidney function tests, HA1C for diabetic patients, HCV PCR, HBsAg, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and abdominal ultrasound have been done, also Child-Pogh (CP) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score before treatment. These investigations have been repeated for 3 months after the end of treatment. Abdominal ultrasound (US) has been done for 3 months after treatment and every 4 months for 2 years after the end of treatment to detect HCC occurrence.ResultsPatients age (58.11 ± 7.48), 55.4% of patients were males, 30.3% of patients were diabetic, 84.3% of them were treatment naïve and sustained virological response (SVR) occured in 94% of them. HCC occurrence after treatment was 6.7% in patients with SVR and 23.8% in patients with non-SVR (P value=0.016) during follow-up period. There is significant improvement of CP score. No significant changes in MELD score.ConclusionTreatment of HCV-related LC patients with sofosbuvir and daclatasvir with or without ribavirin for 3 or 6 months showed high SVR and significant improvement in CP score, but still at risk of HCC even if treated and should be followed up regularly according to screening programs with special meticulous attention to those with non-SVR.

Studying the Toxicity of Hydroalcoholic Caraway Seeds Extract in Female Rats

Caraway seeds are widely used as spice for flavoring and seasoning foods, like bread and salads, because of their pungent and anise like flavor and aroma. Carum carvi was utilized in folk medicine for the management of many diseases. It is useful in hypothyroidism,
 
 liver and gall bladder problems, common cold, fever, bronchitis, diarrhea, and eczema. It also relives GIT spasms, fullness feelings and relieves baby's flatulent colic. The extracts of caraway have diverse compounds, including carvone and limonene, linalool, γ-terpinene and α-pinene. One or combination of these compounds may participate in the pharmacologic effects of caraway. Aim of this study was to assess toxicity of caraway extract on female rats. Carium carvi extract submitted to chemical analysis (Phytochemical screening and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis). Acute toxicity study has been performed using 24 female rats divided randomly in 4 groups (n=6 for each group) that received different doses of hydroalcoholic seed extract of caraway 1000, 3000 and ,5000 mg/kg for 14 days. On day 15, the rats were euthanized and whole blood collected to examine complete blood picture. The liver, kidney and the heart have been harvested for histopathologic study and relative organ weight changes. Caraway extract considered relatively safe on blood profile and immune system within the studied doses, as it shown a non-significant change on complete blood counts (CBCs) in a dose-dependent manner (Hb and RBCs increased slightly, while WBCs and PLTs decreased slightly) and without any change in body weight and relative weight percentage of different organs. As conclusion, hydroalcoholic extract of caraway seeds was relatively safe in rats at a dose up to 5000 mg/kg

Studying the Toxicity of Hydroalcoholic Caraway Seeds Extract in Female Rats

Caraway seeds are widely used as spice for flavoring and seasoning foods, like bread and salads, because of their pungent and anise like flavor and aroma. Carum carvi was utilized in folk medicine for the management of many diseases. It is useful in hypothyroidism, liver and gall bladder problems, common cold, fever, bronchitis, diarrhea, and eczema. It also relives GIT spasms, fullness feelings and relieves baby's flatulent colic. The extracts of caraway have diverse compounds, including carvone and limonene, linalool, γ-terpinene and α-pinene. One or combination of these compounds may participate in the pharmacologic effects of caraway. Aim of this study was to assess toxicity of caraway extract on female rats. Carium carvi extract submitted to chemical analysis (Phytochemical screening and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis). Acute toxicity study has been performed using 24 female rats divided randomly in 4 groups (n=6 for each group) that received different doses of hydroalcoholic seed extract of caraway 1000, 3000 and ,5000 mg/kg for 14 days. On day 15, the rats were euthanized and whole blood collected to examine complete blood picture. The liver, kidney and the heart have been harvested for histopathologic study and relative organ weight changes. Caraway extract considered relatively safe on blood profile and immune system within the studied doses, as it shown a non-significant change on complete blood counts (CBCs) in a dose-dependent manner (Hb and RBCs increased slightly, while WBCs and PLTs decreased slightly) and without any change in body weight and relative weight percentage of different organs. As conclusion, hydroalcoholic extract of caraway seeds was relatively safe in rats at a dose up to 5000 mg/kg

Analysis of Toll-Like Receptor-2 and 4 Expressions in Peripheral Monocyte Subsets in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

ABSTRACT Background: Dysfunction of the peripheral blood monocytes in the form of changes in their proportion, cytokines or pattern-recognition receptors (PRR) expressions may be involved in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Our aim is to analyze the three monocyte subsets; classical, non-classical and intermediate monocytes and their expression of Toll-like receptors 2 (TLR-2) and 4 (TLR-4) in T1DM patients. Methods: The peripheral blood monocytes of 20 T1DM patients were analyzed by Flow cytometry to measure their count and TLR-2 and TLR-4 expression. Results: T1DM patients had more non-classical and intermediate monocytes, whereas classical monocytes were comparable between patients and control (20 healthy volunteers). Classical, non-classical and intermediate monocytes had no significant correlations with hemoglobin (Hb) A1C in controls, while all subsets showed positive correlations with HbA1C in T1DM. TLR-2 and TLR-4 expression were significantly increased in classical monocytes in patients, especially those with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and both of them showed positive correlations with the duration of T1DM. The expression of TLR-2 inside non-classical monocytes showed a negative correlation with LDL cholesterol and TLR-4/TLR-2 ratio showed positive correlations with the duration of T1DM and negative correlations with total cholesterol. The expression of TLR-2 inside intermediate monocytes showed positive correlations with the duration of T1DM and TLR-4/TLR-2 ratio showed negative correlations with the duration of T1DM Conclusions: The observed changes in both proportions and TLR-2 and TLR-4 expression of monocyte subsets can raise the possible role in the pathogenesis of early stages of T1DM and DKA. Abbreviations APC: allophycocyanin; CBC: complete blood picture; DKA: diabetic acidosis; DM: diabetes mellitus; FITC: fluorescein isothiocyanate; FSC: forward scatter; Hb: haemoglobin; MFI: mean channel fluorescence intensity; PE: phycoerythrin; PRR: pattern-recognition receptors; SPSS: statistical package for the social sciences; SSC: side scatter; T1DM: Type1DM; TLRs: toll-like receptors

Fasting Versus Non-Fasting in Assessing Lipid Profile and Complete Blood Picture

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is the world’s leading cause of death and represents a serious global health problem. The general recommendations to operators in the prevention of CHD should include complete lipid profile testing, that is Total Cholesterol(TC), Total Triglycerides(TG), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and Very Low Density Lipoprotein (VLDL). Recent recommendations have supported non-fasting lipid assessment. On the other hand, classification of dyslipidemias was derived in fasting samples, and cohort studies and clinical trials have performed fasting assessments.The aim of this study was to evaluate fasting versus non-fasting in measuring lipid profile & complete blood picture.A total of 80 female were divided into four groups of 20 female each. The 1st three groups were fasting for 4, 6,14 hours respectively and the 4th group was non-fasting. Blood samples were taken from these females for biochemical & hematological investigations.The lipid profile parameters were measured using Synchron CX4 clinical system Beckman Coulter Inc., Brea, CA. Complete Blood Picture was measured by using automated hematological analyzers BC-3000 plus (Hamburg, Germany). Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS( Statistical Package for Social Sciences) number 22.Biochemically, for TC,TG & VLDL, it was found that fasting 6 , 14 hours gave significant differences (P< 0.05) when compared with non-fasting group while there were non-significant results for the mean level of HDL & LDL between groups . Regarding hematological assessment, there were non-significant differences between groups in measuring Hemoglobin, Red blood cells, White blood cells, Platelet counts.Since non-fasting may weaken the accuracy in diagnosing some forms of hyperlipidemia, we proposed that laboratories & organizations should also offer measurement of fasting triglycerides according to clinical situations , as in the case of very high non-fasting triglyceride concentration

Oxidative DNA Due to Occupational Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons among Coal Tar Workers

Introduction: Polycyclic Aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are compounds of occupational and environmental concern as they are toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, and/or teratogenic (causing birth defects). Occupational exposure during coal tar distillation process may cause numerous symptoms and diseases through generation of coal tar fumes that contain principally polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Benzopyrene is the most important member of those PAHs. Aim of work: To assess the health effect due to occupational exposure to PAHs; specifically their effects on DNA damage and oxidative stress status among coal tar workers. Materials and methods: A comparative cross sectional study was carried out on two groups, exposed and unexposed group. The exposed group was consisted of 40 coal tar workers and the unexposed group was also composed of 40 matched individuals not occupationally exposed to coal tar .All examined individuals were subjected to full occupational history and estimation of 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHPyrene) level in urine, blood levels of Benzopyrene-DNA adducts, oxidative stress enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase), Cytochrome P450 and Complete blood picture. Results: There was a statistically significant higher urinary level of 1-OHPyrene and higher blood levels of benzopyrene DNA adducts at the exposed workers compared to unexposed ones, in the other hand there were significant reduction in serum levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase among workers exposed to PAHs compared to the unexposed group that might be consumed by oxidative stress status. Conclusion: Oxidative stress and DNA damage might be one of the pathogenesis that may cause adverse health effects associated with occupational exposure to PAHs among coal tar workers.

Study of the relation of Anti-Ro and Anti-La Antibodies with cardiac arrhythmia and other ECG abnormalities in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Introduction: Arrhythmias and conductive system disorders are among the cardiovascular aggravations brought about by Systemic lupus erythematosus. Anti-Ro/SSA and LA antibodies are often recognized in connective tissue disease patients as well as in apparently healthy people. Aim of the work: Assess the role of Anti-Ro and Anti-La antibodies as hazard factors for arrhythmia in grown-up SLE patients.Patients and Methods: Cross_ sectional clinical investigation. A sum of 70 SLE cases going to the outpatient and inpatient divisions of rheumatology, Sohag University Hospitals; remembered for investigations. All members will be exposed to the accompanying: Full history, General and local assessment, Routine examinations: complete blood picture, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, liver capacities, kidney capacities, ANA IF, Anti Ro and Anti La appraisal by Immunoblot measure and ElectrocardiogramResults: 13 (41.9%) of our patients who had positive anti_ RO and LA had strange ECG findings, while 18 (58.1%) of them had typical ECG, just oral/nasal ulcers and Anti _RO/LA were an independent risk factor for abnormal ECG. Disease duration was nonsignificant and positive corresponded with disease activity by SLEDAI score Conclusion: This study exhibited that the grown-up heart may represent a goal for the anti_ Ro⁄SSA antibodies 'arrhythmogenicity. Notwithstanding, the particular rhythm changes happened appear to be, correlated with age, as shown by the way that while ventricular repolarization variations from the norm (specifically QTc prolongation) are the transcendent finding in the adults, the inclusion of conduction system is limited to the fetal heart only.

The Effect of High Flux versus Low Flux Dialyzers on Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 (FGF-23) and Its Cardiovascular Implications in Prevalent Hemodialysis Patients

Background: Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death in patients with end stage renal disease. Fibroblastic growth factor- 23 (FGF-23) is a novel phosphaturic hormone produced in the osteocyte. Patients with kidney disease complain of elevated levels of FGF-23 in response to hyperphosphatemia. Patients and Methods: This was a cross-over prospective study conducted on 30 patients on regular hemodialysis. The study period was 6 months, laboratory investigations for FGF-23, complete blood picture, s. urea (pre-dialysis and post-dialysis), serum albumin, serum electrolytes (Ca++ & PO4), alkaline phosphatase, PTH, serum ferritin, and lipid profile as well as echocardiography were obtained in the start of the study, after 3 months on maintained lowflux hemodialysis and 3 months after switching the patients to high-flux hemodialysis. Results: There was a highly significant reduction of FGF-23 level with high-flux dialyzers than with low-flux dialyzers. The adjusted difference in the absolute change in FGF-23 levels between the three months period of lowflux dialysis and the three months period of high-flux dialysis showed a highly significant reduction with high-flux than with low-flux (p= 0.000). There was a significant reduction of serum levels of PTH, calcium, phosphorus levels with high-flux dialyzers than with low-flux dialyzers, the adjusted difference was (p= 0.022), (p= 0.000), and (p= 0.006) respectively. Conclusion: FGF-23 levels were significantly higher in hemodialysis patients than in normal population. FGF-23 was better eliminated by high-flux dialyzers than low-flux dialyzers and high FGF-23 levels were associated with increased incidence of cardiac valve calcification. FGF-23 positively correlated with right ventricular systolic pressure.

Assessment of Ceruloplasmin, Hemopexin, and Haptoglobin in Asthmatic Children

BACKGROUND: Ceruloplasmin (Cp), haptoglobin, and hemopexin play a role in iron homeostasis and may function to modulate the systemic inflammatory response and be involved in tissue repair. We hypothesized that these proteins could be biological markers for bronchial asthma that reflect the involvement of iron oxidative stress in asthma pathogenesis.&#x0D; AIM: Evaluation of serum levels of proteins involved in iron homeostasis (Cp, hemopexin, and haptoglobin) in asthmatic children and their correlation to pulmonary functions.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty moderate to severe persistent asthmatic children aged 6–13 years were included (30 during attacks and 30 in-between attacks). Thirty healthy matched controls were also recruited. All children were subjected to history taking, clinical evaluation and assessment of complete blood picture, serum levels of Cp, haptoglobin, hemopexin, and total IgE. Pulmonary function tests were assessed for all patients.&#x0D; RESULTS: Serum Cp and haptoglobin were significantly elevated in asthmatic children between attacks (448.04 ± 386.79), (993.33 ± 554.56) compared to controls (168.42 ± 13.46), (473.33 ± 350.3), (p = 0.0002, p &lt; 0.0001) and to asthmatics during exacerbations (288.8 ± 219.6), (620 ± 467.86), (p = 0.014, p = 0.006). Serum hemopexin was significantly higher in asthmatics between attacks (509.33 ± 341.51) compared to controls (296.67 ± 158.38) (p &lt; 0.003) but no significant difference compared to acute exacerbations (477.33 ± 396.6). No significant correlations were found between any of the assessed protein levels and pulmonary functions. Hemoglobin concentration was significantly higher among stable asthmatics compared to acute exacerbation and control groups.&#x0D; CONCLUSION: Cp, haptoglobin, and hemopexin can be used as a panel of non-invasive biomarkers that reflect the involvement of iron oxidative stress in asthma pathogenesis.

Arthralgia in Egyptian children

Abstract Background Children presenting with joint pains are a very common occurrence in any general pediatric outpatient department. About 15% of general pediatric consultations are for myriad pains of the musculoskeletal system. Aim of the work To screen Egyptian children presenting to a tertiary center for different causes of arthralgia. Subjects and Methods This is a descriptive study that was conducted on 200 pediatric patients (86 males and 114 females) presenting with arthralgia at the Children’s hospital Ain shams University from August 2017 till April 2018. Patients with chronic illness, skeletal deformity, past history of acute rheumatic fever, and any patient with acute febrile illness were excluded. All patients were subjected to full medical history, examination, laboratory investigation as complete blood picture, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, c reactive protein, electrocardiography and echocardiography. Results Around 18% of patients with arthralgia were proved to have post streptococcal arthralgia, 35% had collagen diseases, 10% with malignant conditions. no identifiable cause could be found in 36% of the patients and two patients diagnosed as acute rheumatic fever. Conclusion Arthralgia is a common symptom in the pediatric age group. Although it is a benign condition, sometimes it accurs due to serious illness like malignancy or collagen diseases.

Effect of Assisted Exercise on Musculoskeletal System and Growth in Preterm Infants

Abstract Background osteopenia of prematurity, also known as bone metabolic disorder, is one of the common diseases in very low birth weight (VLBW) prematurity. Aim of the Work the primary aim of this study was to assess whether physical activity programs in preterm infants improve bone mineralization as well as growth and reduce the risk of fractures. The secondary aim was to include other potential benefits in terms of length of hospital stay, weaning from mechanical ventilation, feeding tolerance and adverse events. Patients and Methods this study was conducted on 36 neonate, Preterm infants (gestational age &amp;lt;33 completed weeks), body size appropriate for gestational age according to the growth curve, Postnatal age of ≥ 1 week with medically stable condition and favorable evolution that is presenting no associated diseases besides prematurity, tolerating enteral feeds of preterm formula at or above 100 kcal/kg/d. Methods the studied neonates were randomized into the physical exercise (n = 18) and control (n = 18) groups. Randomization was made by birth order. The studied neonates were subjected to full history taking, complete clinical assessment together with complete blood picture, C-reactive protein, serum Ca, Serum phosphorous concentration, Serum magnesium concentration. Serum alkaline phosphatase concentration, Serum Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Urinary calcium/phosphorous ratio. Babies admitted to NICU bathed, placed in incubator, attached to monitor. Infants in treatment and control groups received well defined interventions for the exercise group, systematic physical activity programs consisting of range-of-motion exercises with gentle compression, extension and flexion of all joints of both bilateral upper extremities; including the shoulder, elbow, and wrist and lower extremities; including the hip, knee and ankle, with a total of 12 joints Each activity was about 10 min a day and was carried out 5 times per week for 4 weeks. This program was started after 1 week of birth. Physical activity continued until discharge from hospital. Results the study demonstrated non significant difference in weight at enrollment (p = 0.516) which was turned into significant difference at end of the study as being higher among exercise group (p &amp;lt; 0.001). In our study although there was increase in the length and head circumference (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in the 2 groups no significant difference detected comparing them together. The control group had significantly lower serum phosphorus (p &amp;lt; 0.001), higher urinary Ca/Po4 ratio (p &amp;lt; 0.035) and higher ALP (p &amp;lt; 0.005) compared to excerise group at the end of the exercising protocol. Conclusion our study has demonstrated that regular physical activity programs (range-of-motion exercises), after an initial period of stabilization, might provide a simple intervention for improving musculoskeletal system and skeletal growth in preterm infants. They may also promote general growth in preterm infants.

The validity of Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells (TREM-1) in diagnosis of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in cirrhotic patients

Abstract Background Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a serious complication in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Without early antibiotic treatment, this complication is associated with a 30-50% mortality rate. Recently we have evaluated the validity and utility of ascitic fluid triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1) levels for the diagnosis of SBP. Patients and Methods This was a Prospective case control study conducted on 60 patients with chronic liver disease and ascites divided into two group, group 1 (control) 30 patients without SBP and group 2 (SBP) 30 patients, admitted to the Tropical Medicine Department with ascites due to chronic liver disease. All patients were subjected to full history taking and clinical examination full laboratory investigations including complete blood picture liver and renal profiles, C reactive protein, viral markers, abdominal ultrasound, UGI endoscopy and ascitic fluid sampling for biochemical testing, total and differential cell count, microbiological culture and TREM-1 level. Results There was high statistical significant difference between the two groups in the base level of TREM-1 in which the mean was 1280 pg/ml (1136.9) with level range between (580---4500pg/ml) in SBP versus mean 129.9 pg/ml (51.9) with level range between (60-250pg/ml) in the control group. Also there was a statistical significant difference in the level of TREM-1 before and after treatment in the SBP patients in which the mean of TREM-1 before treatment was 1280.6 pg/ml (1136.9) with level range between (580-4500pg/ml) versus mean 376.2 pg/ml (78.4) and level range between (260-560 pg/ml) after the treatment. Conclusion our data indicate that the measurement of ascitic fluid TREM-1 is rapid, easy and valid test in the diagnosis and follow up of chronic liver disease patients with SBP.

Evaluation of the Prognostic value of the Prechemotherapy Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Abstract Background The prognostic value of Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma is still indistinct. We conducted this study to assess the prognostic significance of pretreatment PLR in patients with MPM. Aim of the Work to assess the prognostic significance of pre-treatment PLR in patients with MPM. Material and Methods we retrospectively reviewed 1!0 patients treated for MPM with chemotherapy in Ain-Shams University hospital, Clinical Oncology department between January 2013 and December 2017. Pre-treatment CBC was available for the 110 patients to calculate PLR by dividing the absolute platelet count by the absolute lymphocytic count. Results Out of 110 patients with available pre-treatment complete blood picture, population age ranged from 28 to 70 years. Male to female ratio was 5:6 .Epithelioid subtype represent 85% of cases. Stages III and IV present 48.2% and 35.5, respectively while stages I and II present 3.6% and 12.7%, respectively. The median PLR in the study population was found to be 177.9, Conclusion PLR is an easy , reproducible and inexpensive prognostic factor that needs to be more investigated in MPM.

Osteoporosis among the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

Background: COPD is a widely prevalent disease with high morbidity and mortality and is associated with various comorbidities, among which is osteoporosis. However, osteoporosis is often undiagnosed in these patients.&#x0D; Material and methods: This study was conducted on 40 patients with COPD and 15 healthy controls (the control group). They were selected from EMCH from Jan 2015 to Dec 2017. All participants were subjected to detailed clinical history taking, a thorough clinical examination, plain chest radiography (posteroanterior and lateral views), blood sampling for complete blood picture, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and serum calcium and phosphates, ventilatory function tests (spirometry), and measurement of bone density using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).&#x0D; Results: The results of this study revealed prevalence of osteoporosis was higher in the COPD group compared with the control group (P &lt; 0.00). Prevalence of osteoporosis increased with increasing severity of COPD (P &lt; 0.00).&#x0D; Conclusion: Osteopenia and osteoporosis are more prevalent in COPD patients than in healthy controls and the severity of osteoporosis increases with increasing severity of COPD.&#x0D; Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 11, No. 1: Jan 2020, P 16-21

Hematological and biochemical studies on hemodylitic patients at the Government General Hospital, Wadi Al-Dawaser

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Renal failure is a slowly progressive disease of kidney, characterized by low glomerular filtration. One of the most important replacement therapy of renal failure is hemodialysis which helping in the removal of toxic fluids and metabolic end products from the body.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This study was carried out on 43 patients with renal failure in the dialysis unit of Wadi Al-Dawaser General Hospital. Patients were 25 males and 18 females, randomly selected for the study between September and November 2018. Blood samples were obtained from all patients pre and post dialysis for serum biochemical analysis including kidney function test, liver function, lipid profile, glucose, electrolytes, while blood sample with anticoagulants collected pre dialysis for complete blood picture. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; The hemogram parameters recorded significant decrease while leuckogram insignificantly increase specially eosinophils, in pre-dialysis patients. Serum biochemical parameters were significantly high pre-dialysis recorded 83.7%, 97.7%, 21% for urea, creatinine and uric acid respectively, while significantly decrease post dialysis. In contrast serum glucose and magnesium levels were significantly high pre and post dialysis. As result of decrease of the erythropoietin production in chronic renal failure patients lower hematological indices, increase the risk of anemia are main results.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Dialysis improve the biochemical parameters of serum especially creatinine and urea while glucose and magnesium not improved.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt; &lt;/p&gt;

Anemia in children: A cross sectional study in a tertiary care centre

Introduction: Anemia in children may be due to a single cause or multiple causes and affects the child’s health as well as their physical and cognitive development, immunity, thereby making them more sensitive to infections and mortality. Materials and Methods: 150 children were subjected to clinical examiantions and investigations such as complete blood picture, hemoglobin and hematocrit estimation, ova and cyst identification hematological examination and biochemical reactions such as serum iron, serum ferritin, transferrin saturation was done. Results: 42% were males and 58% were females in the present study. Most of the children (34%) were between the ages of 12-23 months, followed by 22.7% between 1 -11 months old and 18.7% were between 24–35 months. Diarrhoea was the chief complaint in 16%, 10% with respiratory tract illness and 4.7% with asthma. The nutritional status of most of the patients was normal. Conclusion: Diet which is deficient in iron and its supplements is the main cause for anemia in the children below 5 years. Adequate education regarding the importance of health hygiene and sanitation along with importance of the proper nutrition is of utmost importance to the parents of these children and to the pregnant women. Keywords: Anemia, children, Nutritional diet.