Retrospective Epidemiological Analysis Research Articles

The spread of molecular markers of artemisinin partial resistance and diagnostic evasion in Eritrea: a retrospective molecular epidemiology study

Eritrea was the first African country to discontinue the use of histidine rich protein 2 (HRP2)-detecting rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for malaria diagnosis following reports of a high prevalence of pfhrp2/3-deleted Plasmodium falciparum parasites causing false-negative results in the country. Eritrea was also the first African country to report partial artemisinin resistance due to the Pfalciparum kelch13 (pfk13) Arg622Ile mutation. We aimed tocharacterise the spatial distribution of pfk13 mutants and their interactions with pfhrp2/3 deletions in Eritrea andto assess the role of the use of HRP2-detecting RDTs and antimalarial (artesunate-amodiaquine) therapy in the spread of the two variants. We conducted a retrospective molecular epidemiological analysis of pfk13 mutations and pfhrp2/3 deletions in existing Pfalciparum-infected blood samples collected as part of previous pfhrp2/3 deletion and severe malaria studies. Samples were collected in March, 2016and between September, 2018, and January, 2020, from symptomatic patients seeking care at 15health centres in four administration zones (Semenawi Keyih Bahri, Gash Barka, Anseba, and Debub) in Eritrea. Afragment spanning the propeller region of pfk13 was amplified from samples and sequenced using Sanger sequencing or targeted amplicon sequencing to identify genetic mutations. Deletions of pfhrp2/3 genes in samples were determined using multiplex quantitative PCR. Parasite haplotypes and genetic relatedness of parasite haplotypes were determined previously using microsatellite marker typing. The primary objective was to determine the prevalence of pfk13 mutations at health centres and administrative zones. The secondary objective was to investigate whether pfk13 mutants and pfhrp2/3 deleted parasites converge. We sequenced 50samples collected in March, 2016from the Semenawi Keyih Bahri zone and identified no pfk13 mutations. By contrast, in 587samples included in this study that were collected from health centres in GashBarka, Anseba, and Debub in 2018-20, we detected five different single non-synonymous mutations: Glu605Lys, Arg622Ile, Asn657Lys, Lys658Glu, and Ser679Leu. The most prevalent mutation was pfk13 Arg622Ile, which was detected in samples collected from all nine health centres where more than five samples were available across all three administration zones, with an overall prevalence of 11·9% (70 of 587samples; range 5·9-28·0%). Weidentified 22unique pfk13 Arg622Ile mutant haplotypes among 26samples tested, of which 13 (59·1%) were genetically related, whereas the remaining nine (40·9%) were not. The prevalence of pfk13 Arg622Ile was significantly higher in parasites with a single pfhrp3 deletion (46 [18·0%] of 255samples) than in parasites withoutpfhrp2/3 deletions (ten [6·2%] of 161samples; odds ratio 3·89 [95% CI 1·59-7·61]; p=0·0006) and with dual pfhrp2/3-deleted parasites (13 [9·0%] of 145; 2·23 [1·13-4·68]; p=0·018). The geographical spread of the pfk13 Arg622Ile mutation might have initially resulted from the clonal expansion and spread of pfhrp2/3 deletions under the test-and-treat policy using HRP2-detecting RDTs. Subsequently, selective pressure from artemisinin combination therapy could have further facilitated the spread of both pfk13 Arg622Ile and pfhrp2/3 deletions. Continuous monitoring of trends in pfk13 and pfhrp2/3 variants is needed to inform effective malaria control and elimination strategies in Eritrea and other African countries. US Department of Defense Armed Forces Health Surveillance Division, Global Emerging Infections Surveillance Branch (AFHSD/GEIS), and Wellcome Trust.

Epidemiological analysis of the incidence of COVID-19 among the population of the Republic of Cameroon using the quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS)

The results of a retrospective epidemiological analysis of the incidence of COVID-19 in the regions of the Republic of Cameroon in dynamics from 2020 to 2023 are presented. It was noted that COVID-19 cases were first reported in the Central Region of Cameroon, and then spread to the remaining 9 administrative regions of the country with an average weekly growth rate of 38.1 ± 18.6% in 2020, 15.3 ± 13.1% in 2021, and 13.4 ± 12.2% in 2022, respectively, however, the incidence rate varied significantly in time and space. Epidemiological analysis made it possible to rank the territory of Cameroon by the magnitude of the incidence rate. The highest rate was recorded in the North region (233.1‰), in the Coastal region (204.9‰) and in the Center region (173.7‰). The regions of Adamawa and the Far North had the lowest incidence rates (25.6‰ and 22.5‰, respectively). The results of a comparative analysis of the incidence of COVID-19 infection by time and territory and factors contributing to the rapid spread of infection are presented. Comparative mapping of reported COVID-19 cases in space and time was performed for the 10 administrative regions of the country using the full version of the QGIS (quantum GIS) LTR program; with the help of which the distribution of cases across the territory and dynamics over time was clearly shown. During the study period, the link between COVID-19 cases reported in Cameroon and neighboring African countries was demonstrated. It has been shown that the distribution of cases in the national territory does not always depend on the population density in administrative areas, but is also associated with other risk factors that may affect the occurrence and spread of COVID-19 cases.

A retrospective epidemiological analysis of maxillofacial fractures at a tertiary referral hospital in istanbul: a seven-year study of 1,757 patients

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to evaluate the etiology, incidence, demographics, and characteristics of maxillofacial fractures treated at a university hospital over a seven-year period.MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of 1,757 patients with maxillofacial fractures who were referred to our department between May 2012 and March 2019. The patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics were noted, as well as the fracture type, location, and etiology. The treatment modalities were also analyzed.ResultsA total of 2,173 maxillofacial fractures were seen in 1,757 patients. The male to female ratio was 3.9:1, and the mean patient age was 31.89 ± 17.70 years (range: 0–95 years). Maxillofacial injuries were most prevalent in the 19–28 years age group (23.9% of cases), with a general increase in injuries observed between 2013 and 2018 across all age groups. The most common etiological factor was assault (29.1%), followed by falls (26%). In male patients, assault was reported as the main cause, while in female patients, falls were identified as the main cause. The nasal bone was the most common site of fracture, followed by the maxilla. The average time from admission to surgery was 2.8 days, with local anesthesia being the most frequent surgical intervention. The average time from admission to surgery was 2.8 ± 2.5 days (range: 0–20 days), with surgeries performed under local anesthesia being more frequent than those carried out under general anesthesia. Among the surgical interventions, the most common general anesthesia technique for fracture reduction was open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws. Plate exposure, wound-site infection, and temporomandibular joint ankylosis were the major complications encountered in the study population.ConclusionThe study reveals significant variability in maxillofacial fractures based on gender, age, and etiology. Assault emerged as the leading cause of these fractures, followed by falls and road traffic accidents. Men were affected by maxillofacial trauma four times more often than women, with the highest incidence occurring in the 19–28 years age group. Nasal fractures were the most frequently observed (78.7%), while condylar-subcondylar process fractures were the most common type of mandibular fracture. Given these findings, a targeted, lifelong prevention strategy focused on high-risk groups could significantly reduce the burden of maxillofacial trauma.

Shoulder Septic Arthritis in the Pediatric Age - an Epidemiologic Study

Shouder septic arhtirtis in children may be a challenge due to its limited studies and absence of an algorithm. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and pseudoparalysis of the shoulder may be the most preditive indicators. This paper aims to conduct a retrospective epidemiologic analysis of the pediatric shoulder arthritis cases of the last 5 years in our central pediatric hospital. It includes shoulder septic arthritis diagnosed in the last five years in our central pediatric hospital, in a total of twelve patients, treated surgically with aspiration and articular washout, or arthrtomy among other procedures, with patients between 13 days and 6 year-old. The most isolated pathogens where Kingella Kingae and Streptococcus pyogenes.

ESTUDO EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DO HIV/AIDS EM JUAZEIRO/BA: ANÁLISE DAS TENDÊNCIAS DE INFECÇÃO ENTRE 2019 E 2023

This study presents a retrospective epidemiological analysis of cases of HIV infection in Juazeiro, Bahia, from 2019 to 2023. Using data from DATASUS, variables such as age group, race/color, education and sex of patients were investigated. The results show a higher prevalence of cases among young men (20 to 34 years old), predominantly self-declared mixed race and with low education. The research highlights the need for more effective public policies aimed at prevention, focusing on sexual education, and reducing social and racial inequalities, seeking to minimize the vulnerability of these populations to HIV and improve access to treatment.

A Retrospective Analysis of Human Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Epidemiology During 2016 - 2021 in Hoveyzeh County, Khuzestan Province, Iran

Background: Leishmaniasis, a significant neglected tropical disease, is caused by obligate intracellular protozoa of the Leishmania genus. Objectives: This research aimed to investigate the epidemiology of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) from 2016 to 2021 in Hoveyzeh county. Methods: This study is a retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study based on available data. The study population included all individuals treated and followed up in health care centers who were clinically diagnosed with CL and confirmed by laboratory tests. Results: Among the 628 individuals diagnosed with CL, 324 (51.6%) were male, and 304 (48.4%) were female. The average age of the patients was 16.58 ± 15.17 years. The highest proportion (45.4%) of cases occurred in the 0 - 10-year age group, highlighting the vulnerability of children, while those above 50 years had the lowest incidence (3.7%). Approximately 68.2% of patients resided in urban areas, with the remainder living in rural settings. The hand was the most frequently affected area (44.5%), and the maximum number of lesions reported in a single individual was 25. Most patients (46.82%) were treated with topical glucantime along with cryotherapy. Disease incidence showed seasonal variation, with the highest number of cases reported in autumn (54%) and a significant peak in December (22%). The highest incidence year was 2016 (30.3%). Conclusions: Effective strategies to combat this disease should include comprehensive public awareness campaigns focused on health education, early recognition of symptoms, and transmission methods. Promoting personal protective measures is crucial for disease prevention efforts.

Ecological and epidemiological characteristics of tick-borne encephalitis and ixodic tick-borne borreliosis incidence according to the data of the Arkhangelsk region for 2012–2022

BACKGROUND: The increase of ticks infected with borrelia and tick-borne encephalitis virus, as well as the impact of anthropogenic factor on the ecosystem of the northern region determines the need to study possible risk factors and epidemiological trends in the incidence of tick-borne encephalitis and ixoid tick-borreliosis. AIM: To conduct a retrospective ecological and epidemiological analysis of regional peculiarities of the epidemic process of tick-borne encephalitis and ixoid tick-borreliosis in the Arkhangelsk region in comparison with similar indicators in the North-West Federal District and Russia for 2012–2022. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The work was carried out in accordance with the ecological research design. Statistical data of the Unified Interdepartmental Information and Statistical System, as well as statistical annual forms of the Department of the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare in Russia and the Arkhangelsk region were used as the information base. The registered cases of tick-borne encephalitis and ixoid tick-borreliosis morbidity in the Arkhangelsk region, as well as in Russia and the Northwestern Federal District as a whole for 2012–2022 were evaluated. Time series analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2019. The study also analyzes the dynamics of climatic factors in the Arkhangelsk region and its possible impact on the distribution and migration of ixodid ticks across the territory of the European North of Russia. Correlations were assessed by evaluating Pearson’s correlation criterion using the Google Collaboratory interface. RESULTS: The number of tick bites in the Arkhangelsk region throughout the entire study period significantly exceeds the similar indicator (per 100 thousand population) in Russia. The incidence of tick-borne encephalitis in the Arkhangelsk region significantly exceeds that in both the Russian Federation and the Northwestern Federal District, and exceeded the average annual rate in Russia more than 3 times, although it had a faster rate of decline (5.7% vs. 3.7% annually). The incidence of ixoid tick-borreliosis has a paradoxical character due to the fact that throughout almost the whole period it is below the all-Russian level (3.19 per 100,000 population in Arkhangelsk region against 4.41 in the Russian Federation), while the incidence in the Northwestern Federal District is 1.3 times higher on average. CONCLUSIONS: During the last decade the incidence of tick-borne encephalitis in the Arkhangelsk region remains stably high in comparison with both the Russian Federation and the Northwestern Federal District. The incidence of ixoid tick-borreliosis corresponds to the long-term average for Russia, with a more pronounced downward trend (4.7% vs. 1.7%). The territory of the Arkhangelsk region is subject to the trend of increasing average annual temperatures, and anthropogenic interventions, in particular, abundant deforestation, lead to the destruction of established ecosystems and open new opportunities and territories for ticks, which in the future may negatively affect the established trends of morbidity. The analysis confirms the need to develop and adopt organizational measures aimed at the development of epidemiological and epizootological monitoring.

A Retrospective Analysis of Epidemiology and Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Epithelial Ovarian Tumors Treated in Ain Shams Clinical Oncology Department in the Period from 2017 Till 2020. Ain Shams Clinical Oncology Registry (ASCOR)

Abstract Background OC is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed gynecological malignancy and ranked 2nd most common cause of gynecological malignancies deaths. In our study we reviewed medical records of 97 patients including demographic data and clinico-pathological factors; which include age, performance status, histological subtypes, histological grading, optimal surgery, CA 125 level at presentation and relation with macroscopic residual, number, types, setting and lines of chemotherapy, survival rates were calculated to evaluate them as prognostic factors. Aim of the Work to analyze Retrospectively Epidemiological, Risk factors and Clinical Outcomes of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients Treated in Ain Shams University Hospitals in Egypt in the Period From 2017 till 2020. Patients and Methods At the department of clinical oncology and nuclear medicine, Ain Shams University teaching hospitals, patients with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer, in the period from January 2017 to December 2020, were included in this retrospective analysis. Results Our results showed that ECOG status had a statistically significant correlation with OS and PFS, the better the performance the longer the OS and PFS (p = 0.000, 0.000 respectively). Our study population showed similar results were Platinum sensitive patients showed strong correlation to PFS & OS period with the best in the group platinum sensitive and minimum difference in groups showed no response to platinum or were resistant (p value = 0.000). Conclusion our study shows prognostic effects for age, performance status, histological grade, stage, optimal surgery, number of chemotherapy cycles, and platinum sensitivity furthermore after adjustment for different cofounder, high score of age adjusted charleson index >2, stage, ECOG status, platinum sensitivity and optimal cytoreduction were independent prognostic factors affecting OS.

Retrospective Analysis of Epidemiology and Clinical Outcomes of Gastric Adenocarcinoma Patients Treated at Ain Shams Clinical Oncology Department

Abstract Background Gastric cancer, a significant health burden in Egypt, has shown a rising trend in recent years. Risk factors include H. pylori infection, smoking, and unhealthy diets. Early detection and improved treatment options are crucial for combating this life-threatening disease Methods we conducted a retrospective analysis of the medical records of 70 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma treated at clinical oncology department, faculty of medicine, Ain Shams university in the Period From 2017 till 2020. Results our study include 70 patients with male to female ratio of 1: 1 at the median age of 52 years with 84% of the patients presented with advanced stages (stage 3 and stage 4). The median overall survival for stage 2 was the highest it was about 36 months while for stage 4 was the least measuring 7 months. the overall survival for stage 3 was 17 months. There was a highly significant relation between overall survival and surgery (p < 0.001). There was a highly significant relation between overall survival and adjuvant therapy (p < 0.001). Patients who received neoadjuvant therapy had better overall survival but this did not reach the significant level (p > 0.05). Univariate analysis, variables independently associated with overall survival included: higher stage, higher grade and histological type. While in multivariate analysis, it was found that stage and histological type were independent predictors for mortality. Conclusion Surgery is the basis of curative treatment for resectable gastric cancer, patients who underwent radical surgery had better overall survival than unresectable ones. presentation with metastatic lymph nodes, and systemic involvement is associated with poor prognosis despite multi-agents systemic treatment. Further research is required regarding the prevalence and causes of gastric cancer in Egypt to improve outcome of systemic treatment.

Risk of central nervous system tumors in the offspring of individuals exposed to production radiation

Aim. To assess the risk of malignant central nervous system (CNS) tumors among the first-generation offspring of workers from the Mayak Production Association.Materials and Methods. A retrospective epidemiological analysis was conducted in a cohort of the offspring of workers from Russia's first nuclear power plant (n = 8890), born between 1949 and 1973. The comparison group consisted of 4345 offspring born during the same period to non-exposed parents. The observation period covered 72 years (1949−2020), with a total of 818,208 person-years of follow-up. The analysis focused on the frequency, dynamics, and structure of CNS malignancies. The relative risk of CNS tumors and the excess relative risk per unit dose of parental occupational radiation exposure were calculated with 95% confidence intervals.Results. Overall, the frequency of CNS tumors in both groups over the entire observation period did not differ significantly (3.4 per 1000 in the main group, 1.8 per 1000 in the comparison group). Analysis of CNS tumor incidence dynamics across calendar periods showed no significant differences, with the peak in the main group occurring during 2001−2010. No significant differences were found in the age of CNS tumor onset or the average age of parents at the time of offspring birth. Histological structure and localization of CNS tumors varied across groups. The relative risk assessment for CNS tumors showed a statistically insignificant increase in risk among the offspring in the main group when considering total observations and sex-specific analyses. Among the offspring of mothers with confirmed preconceptional and intrauterine occupational radiation exposure, the relative risk of CNS tumors was higher for males and both sexes combined (3.6 [1.06−12.28] and 2.74 [1.08−6.93]; 4.34 [1.27−14.77] and 3.3 [1.31−8.36], respectively). However, the analysis of excess relative risk did not indicate significant risk estimates for maternal radiation exposure, neither in general nor across different dose intervals.Conclusion. The study did not confirm the hypothesis that parental occupational radiation exposure influences the risk of CNS tumors in offspring. Given the relatively young age of the cohort and the low number of CNS tumor cases, issues related to maternal radiation exposure require further observation.

Modern aspects of rabies in Cameroon

The article presents the results of an epidemiological study of the incidence of rabies in the population of the Republic of Cameroon in the period from 2014 to 2022. The system of epidemiological surveillance and monitoring of rabies in Cameroon is presented. According to WHO, human and animal rabies is recognized as endemic to Central Africa as a whole, and in Cameroon, in particular, this infectious goiter is classified as the first priority zoonosis within the framework of the National Program for the Prevention and Control of Recurrent and Re-emerging Zoonosis (PNPLZER). The average annual incidence of rabies recorded between 2014 and 2022 was 405.7% (95% CI: 401.9% – 409.5%). Based on the results of a retrospective epidemiological analysis, the dynamics of rabies cases among people in Cameroon is presented in accordance with data recorded at the Operational Center for Public Health Emergencies (CCOUSP). The highest rates were recorded in the period from 2018 (547.4%) to 2019 (276.8%), and the lowest in 2021 (10.7%) to 2022 (3.1%). To identify socio-demographic risk factors, a survey of rabies foci was conducted using specially designed questionnaires (epidemiological information collection cards). Mapping of registered cases of rabies in humans was carried out for 10 administrative regions of the country using the LTR QGIS (quantum GIS) program, which allowed us to show the distribution of cases across the country and dynamics over time. It has been established that the distribution of cases of the disease across the territory does not always depend on the population density in administrative districts, but is associated with specific socio-demographic risk factors such as profession, gender, age, type of animal reservoir of the virus, which affect the activity of the pathogen circulation among natural hosts.

A Long-term Retrospective Epidemiological Analysis of the Incidence of Rotavirus Infection in the Altai Krai for 2001–2023

Relevance. The urgency of the problem of rotavirus infection, primarily among children, is due to the steady preservation of leading places in the structure of childhood morbidity. Despite the existing preventive measures, the incidence of rotavirus infection has been steadily increasing over the past 10 years. Vaccination coverage in our country in recent years has not exceeded 10-12% of the target cohort, which in general cannot have a significant impact on the incidence of rotavirus infection and requires special attention. Aim. To assess the epidemiologic situation on the incidence of rotavirus infection in Altai Krai in 2001–2023. Materials and methods. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of the incidence of rotavirus infection in the Altai Krai was carried out using data from statistical reporting forms No. 2 of the Federal State Statistical Observation «Information on infectious and parasitic diseases» in the Altai Krai in 2001–2023. Results. A long-term retrospective epidemiological analysis of rotavirus infection incidence was carried out. It was noted: an increase in the share of rotavirus infection in the structure of acute intestinal infections; a tendency for an increase in morbidity rates in the Altai Krai; the average long-term morbidity rate among children 0–17 years old exceeded that among adults by 67 times; in the structure of cases, the main proportion was children 1–2 years old; the greatest contribution to the formation of morbidity was made by unorganized children (75%) vaccination had no effect on morbidity, since vaccine coverage of Altay Krai population does not exceed 0.1%. Conclusion. The reasons for close monitoring of rotavirus infection and improvement of preventive measures, including vaccine prophylaxis, are substantiated

Оценка многолетней динамики заболеваемости корью

The paper examines the relevance of the measles problem in the Russian Federation, Volga Federal District, and Orenburg Region among various age groups. The manifestations of the measles epidemic process in long-term dynamics from 2010 to 2022 were studied and analyzed. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of the incidence of measles in the population was carried out, including an analysis of the long-term dynamics of the incidence of the population, an analysis of the intra-annual dynamics of the incidence and an analysis of the long-term dynamics of the incidence among various population groups. It has been established that the long-term average incidence of measles in the Orenburg region exceeds that in the Volga Federal District. Areas at risk for measles incidence among municipalities of the Orenburg region are Sorochinsky and Tashlinsky districts. The risk group for measles incidence in the Orenburg region is the child population. Two full cycles of rise and fall in morbidity have been established. In the intra-annual dynamics of the incidence of whooping cough, spring-winter seasonality is noted. Keywords: measles, retrospective epidemiological analysis, risk areas, risk groups, time of risk, incidence.

Risk Factors and Profile of Congenital Anomalies Abnormalities in Central Morocco

Background: In Morocco, there is no official data on the prevalence of congenital anomalies (CAs). Available data are mostly derived from hospital-based retrospective epidemiological analyses. Objectives: This study aims to describe the prevalence, distribution, and risk factors of CAs in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region of central Morocco. Methods: Epidemiological data were obtained from delivery files of 163,842 births recorded by local medical services from January 2017 to December 2021. Additionally, a case-control study was conducted to analyze the risk factors. Results: The prevalence of CAs in this study area was 6.18 per thousand births. Musculoskeletal system anomalies were the most common (32.88%), followed by nervous system anomalies (22.20%). Genital organ abnormalities represented 7.37%, and cleft lip and palate accounted for 7.03%. Analysis by type of CA revealed that clubfeet were the most commonly reported anomalies in the study area, with a prevalence of 18%, followed by spina bifida (9%), anencephaly (7%), and cleft lips and palate (7.9%). The sex ratio (males/females) for all CAs was 1.24. Risk factors identified in this study included rural residency, maternal age over 35 years, parity, consanguinity, family history of CA, medication use before and during pregnancy, and infection episodes during pregnancy. Conclusions: The relatively high prevalence of congenital abnormalities in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region highlights the need for prevention strategies through preconception care counseling and pregnancy monitoring, especially in rural areas. It is urgent to establish a teratovigilance registry in Morocco.

Epidemiological features of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in newborns in the Kemerovo region – Kuzbass

Introduction. Theoretical and practical issues of the short-term and long-term prediction of the onset of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and its outcomes in newborns is a promising area of neonatology, since it allows a doctor to be warned about an impending catastrophe, and opens a «window of opportunity» for timely correction of treatment tactics and prevention of complications.The objective was to study the epidemiological features and medical consequences of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in full-term and premature newborns born in critical condition.Materials and methods. The stage of retrospective epidemiological analysis was conducted in 2023. The prevalence and outcomes of MODS over a ten-year period (2012–2022) in full-term and premature newborns in the Kemerovo region-Kuzbass were studied.Results. During the period 2012–2022, the mortality rate of children born in critical condition decreased by 2 times, the proportion of patients with MODS and persistent multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (PMODS) decreased, but this phenomenon did not lead to a decrease in the mortality rate of children with developed MODS. In the present study, MODS and PMODS most often developed in extremely immature newborns.Conclusion. Nosologies of newborns with MODS and PMODS were represented by intrauterine generalized infection, congenital pneumonia and, to a lesser extent, cerebral ischemia and congenital malformations.

Epidemiological patterns of natural focal diseases of the Voronezh region

Diseases of animals and humans are widespread and are confined to the habitat of the reservoir. Urbanization has led to the expansion of the range of natural focal diseases with the formation of persistent anthropurgic foci.The purpose of the work was to study the epizootic manifestations of natural focal diseases and analyze the morbidity of the population of the Voronezh region. The research material was based on data from federal statistical observation forms No. 2 for 2012–2022, and the results of epizootological monitoring of the department of natural focal infections and laboratories of the Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology in the Voronezh region. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of the morbidity rate of the population of the Voronezh region was carried out, ranking administrative territories based on the method of standard deviations. The results obtained were processed using Microsoft Excel; the long-term average incidence rate, error of the mean, confidence intervals, and significance level (p) less than 0.05 were calculated. The result of the analysis showed that the long-term average incidence rate of natural focal diseases in the Voronezh region was 9.91 per 100,000 population. In the structure of nosological forms, 85.98 % were tick-borne borreliosis and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The long-term average incidence rate of Lyme disease is 4.45 per 100,000 population, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome is 0.87 per 100,000 population. According to the ranking results, the Ramonsky, Ternovsky and Anninsky administrative territories were classified as risk areas for the average long-term incidence of borreliosis, and the Ramonsky, Verkhnekhava and Paninsky administrative territories for hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The results obtained indicate active natural foci of infections in the Voronezh region.

A retrospective analysis of disease epidemiology, comorbidities, treatment patterns, and healthcare resource utilization of alopecia areata in the United Arab Emirates using claims database.

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder that manifests as nonscarring hair loss and imposes a substantial disease burden. The current study, using an e-claims database, assesses the disease burden, comorbidities, treatment patterns, specialties involved in the diagnosis of AA, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and associated costs in privately insured patients with AA in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The retrospective longitudinal secondary study was conducted using Dubai Real-World Database e-claims data during 01 January 2014 to 30 June 2022. Patients with at least one diagnosis claim of AA during the index period (01 January 2015-30 June 2021) with continuous enrollment (one or more AA/non-AA claim in the post-index period) were included in the analysis. The patients were stratified into subcohorts based on diagnosis code and treatment patterns, as mild, moderate-to-severe, and others. Demographics, comorbidities, treatment patterns, specialists visited, and HCRU were assessed. The study included 11 851 patients with AA (mean age: mild: 37 years; moderate-to-severe: 36 years), with a male predominance (mild: 77.6%; moderate-to-severe: 60.8%). The most prevalent comorbidities in the moderate-to-severe AA subcohort were autoimmune and T-helper 2-mediated immune disorders, including contact dermatitis and eczema (62.1%), atopic dermatitis (36.1%), and asthma (36.1%). Most patients consulted dermatologists for treatment advice (mild AA: 87.4%; moderate-to-severe AA: 47.7%) and, notably, within 1 day of AA diagnosis. Topical steroids were frequently prescribed across cohorts, regardless of disease severity. Analysis of comorbidities among patients with AA indicated an additional HCRU burden among these subsets of patients. The median disease-specific HCRU cost was higher for psychological comorbidities versus autoimmune and T-helper 2-mediated immune disorders (US $224.99 vs US $103.70). There is a substantial disease and economic burden in patients with AA and associated comorbid conditions; therefore, investing in novel therapies that target the underlying autoimmune pathway may address the gap in effective management of AA.

The results of epidemiological analysis of salmonellosis incidence in the Rostov region under current conditions

Objective: to study the features of the epidemic process of salmonella infection under current conditions. To establish a causal relationship between the incidence of salmonellosis and the functioning of public catering enterprises, which can form the epidemiological risks.Materials and methods: to assess the intensity, dynamics and structure of the epidemic process of salmonella infection, methods of operative and retrospective epidemiological analysis used, to identify and characterize etiological agents — laboratory methods: bacteriological, serological, molecular genetic analysis.Results: in the course of the study, the epidemiological features of the spread of salmonellosis in the Rostov region were established, the main risks which can form multiple foci were determined on the example of a specific epidemic situation: the possible source of infection, pathways and transmission factors, the etiological agent — Salmonella enteritidis gr. O:9 (D1). Gross violations of sanitary legislation in organizing the work of a public catering enterprise caused a wide contamination of finished culinary goods by pathogens of salmonella infection.Conclusion: based on the identified features of the epidemic process, a complex of measures developed; the focus of infection localized and eliminated. Recommendations for the prevention of salmonellosis for workers in objects of a similar profile and the population are given.

Ipsilateral Supracondylar and Medial Epicondyle Humerus Fractures in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective Analysis of Incidence, Epidemiology, Treatment, and Outcomes.

Pediatric supracondylar humerus (SCH; AO/OTA13-M/3.1) and medial epicondyle fractures (AO/OTA13u-M/7.1) are common. Concomitant SCH with ipsilateral medial epicondyle fractures remain scarcely reported. We investigated the epidemiology, treatment, and outcomes of this rare, combined injury. A retrospective review of pediatric patients with concomitant SCH and medial epicondyle fractures at a level 1 hospital from 2010 to 2020 was performed. Patient data, treatments, and outcomes were assessed. Radiographs were reviewed for fracture classification and alignment. Patients aged above 18 years and those with inaccessible imaging were excluded. Descriptive statistics were performed. Of 3344 patients undergoing surgery for SCH fractures, 14 (6 females, mean: 10.59y) with concomitant SCH and medial epicondyle fractures were included. Overall, 28.6% of patients exhibited preoperative nerve palsies (3 PIN, 1 median nerve). There was 1 flexion type and 13 Gartland type III SCH fractures. Medial epicondyle fracture displacement averaged 4.13mm (range: 2 to 7mm). Thirteen medial epicondyle fractures occurred medial to the physis with 1 through the physis. Eight patients (57.1%) had medial fixation-7 medial pins, 1 medial screw-which captured both the medial epicondyle and medial column of the SCH fracture. Six medial epicondyles were treated closed. The average time to pin pull was 33.1 days (range: 27 to 51d) with average follow-up of 138.6 days (range: 27 to 574d). Overall, 50% of patients completed physical therapy (PT). Complications occurred in 4 cases: prominence of a medial pin, 1 patient required additional PT and dynamic splinting for loss of functional extension, 1 patient underwent a manipulation under anesthesia 3.5 months postoperatively for flexion contracture, and 1 patient developed medial epicondyle nonunion and SCH malunion that underwent corrective osteotomy 10.5 months postoperatively. Concurrent SCH and medial epicondyle fractures exhibited a high rate of nerve palsy (28.6%) and complications (28.6%) and were frequently referred to physical therapy. While patients treated without medial fixation went on to union, this combined injury might represent a relative indication for medial pinning of the SCH fracture. Further studies on this rare injury pattern are needed to determine optimal treatment methods. Level IV-therapeutic.

EPIDEMIC MANIFESTATIONS OF HIV COMBINED WITH CHRONIC VIRAL HEPATITIS IN THE FAR EASTERN FEDERAL DISTRICT

Coinfection represents one of the most complex public health issue for therapy and epidemiological surveillance worldwide. The latter in the Russian Federation includes no specific monitoring after HIV and chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) coinfection. Objective: to perform a retrospective epidemiological analysis of CVH, HIV-infection, HIV+CVH coinfection incidence, conduct integral assessment of HIV+CVH coinfection epidemic manifestations in the Far Eastern Federal District (FEFD) during the years 2007-2022. It was established that HIV-infection and HIV+CVH coinfection incidence showed a unilateral long-term growth trend reaching in 2022 up to 4.3 cases/100000 population (by 6-fold higher than in 2007), which for HIV-infection incidence was as high as 30.7 cases/100000 population (by 2-fold higher than in 2007). CVH incidence decrease with average long-term decline comprising 4.4% per year and in 2022 reaching 26.1 cases/100000 population. Primorsky krai had highest incidence of HIV+CVH coinfection in 2022 that exceeded average level recorded among territories of the FEFD by 2.3-fold. Primorsky Krai is a territory historically characterized by widespread of HIV-infection and CVH in human population partly due to broad drug use. Ranking of HIV+CVH coinfection incidence revealed territories with favorable epidemic situation as follows: Kamchatka krai, Khabarovsk krai, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Magadan oblast. HIV infection and CVH are long-lasting conditions so that individuals with verified diagnosis may remain a source of infection, analyzing disease incidence alone was found to be insufficient for assessing epidemic situation. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis was carried out to calculate integral index based on the sum of ranks of HIV+CVH coinfection incidence, prevalence and average long-term incidence, prevalence of CVH among HIV-positive subjects. Ranking of the integral index established unfavorable epidemic situation for HIV+CVH coinfection in the Magadan region and Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). Both territories had an upward incidence trend, high prevalence of CVH among HIV-positive subjects. In addition, the Magadan region had highest prevalence of HIV+CVH coinfection. Primorsky krai and Jewish autonomous region were also classified as unfavorable. Existing epidemiological surveillance after HIV-infection needs to be supplemented with separate monitoring over HIV+CVH coinfection. Estimating an integral index in addition to evaluation of incidence for assessment of the epidemic situation over coinfection will improve the analysis.