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Non Detection of Candida nivariensis and Candida bracarensis Among Candida glabrata Sensu Lato Isolates in the West Region of Cameroon
Claude Nangwat,
Aude Ngueguim Dougue,
Cyrille Levis Kountchou,
Alfred Itor Ekpo,
Thierry Kammalac Ngouana,
Jean Paul Dzoyem,
Christopher Bonglavnyuy Tume
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 5, October 2020
Pages:
71-77
Received:
12 August 2020
Accepted:
24 August 2020
Published:
7 September 2020
Abstract: No study in Cameroon has been undertaken to check for the presence of the cryptic species belonging to the Candida glabrata complex, which have varying antifungal susceptibility profiles. In this regard, we analyzed a collection of 54 clinical isolates of C. glabrata sensu lato obtained from 1551 samples of 490 participants. These participants included 80 diabetic patients, 323 HIV-infected subjects, 73 pregnant women and 14 of some other patients who had none of the aforementioned conditions. Our study aimed at identifying Candida glabrata cryptic species among clinical isolates of Candida glabrata sensu lato from the West region of Cameroon and to evaluate their susceptibility pattern to some antifungals. Conventional tests such as culture on CHROMagar™ Candida, germ tube formation and chlamydospore formation tests were used for the 1st line identification of our isolates, while the matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation – time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) was used for second line identification and confirmation of identifications. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of Ketoconazole (Sigma Aldrich, China), Nystatine (Sigma Aldrich, China), Amphotericin B (Dominique Dutscher), Itraconozole (Sigma Aldrich, China), Voriconazole (Acros organics, China), and Clotrimazole (Acros organics, China) vis-à-vis 43 isolates, were determined according to the protocol proposed by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) M27-A3 and M27-S4, with slight modifications. Of the 54 isolates, none was identified as C. nivariensis or C. bracarensis by MALDI-TOF, all the 54 (100%) isolates were confirmed to be C. glabrata stricto sensu. CLO (MIC range: 0.25 - >4 µg/mL) was most resisted by our isolates (95.35%), while 32.56% were resistant to KET (range of MICs: 0.03 - >4 µg/mL). On the other hand, ECVs showed that AMB (MIC range: 0.03 - 4 µg/mL) and ICZ (MIC range: 0.25 - 4 µg/mL) had very good activities against our isolates, as 81.4% of the isolates were wild type for both antifungals. On the other hand, VOR (range of MICs: 0.125 - >4 µg/mL) showed a poor activity, as most of our isolates (93.02%) were non-wild type for the antifungal. The number of isolates used in this study was not enough to conclude that C. nivariensis and C. bracarensis isolates are absent in the West Region or other parts of Cameroon, so we recommend that more of such studies be carried out in Cameroon, as this could help detect the presence of any of these emerging species with varying antifungal susceptibility profiles.
Abstract: No study in Cameroon has been undertaken to check for the presence of the cryptic species belonging to the Candida glabrata complex, which have varying antifungal susceptibility profiles. In this regard, we analyzed a collection of 54 clinical isolates of C. glabrata sensu lato obtained from 1551 samples of 490 participants. These participants incl...
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Clinical and Microbiological Epidemiology of Otomycosis in the Centre Region of Cameroon
Ekpo Alfred Itor,
Michel Noubom,
Claude Nangwat,
Dougue Aude Ngueguim,
Cyrille Levis Kountchou,
Ngouana Kammalac Thierry,
Dzoyem Jean Paul,
Tume Christopher Bonglavnyuy
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 5, October 2020
Pages:
78-83
Received:
13 August 2020
Accepted:
24 August 2020
Published:
7 September 2020
Abstract: Otomycosis is a superficial, sub-acute or chronic infection of the external auditory canal, characterized by pruritis, inflammation, pain and itching commonly seen in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Various host and environmental factors can predispose a person to otomycosis. However, a clinical presentation along with otoscopic observations of the patients shows fungal and bacterial infections. Proper identification of causative agents is necessary in order to prevent recurrences and complications such as hearing lost. The aim of our study was to determine the fungi and bacteria pathogens causing otomycosis and to derive association of risk factors with otomycosis of the clinically diagnosed patients. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the otorhinolaryngology department at the University Teaching hospital and the Central hospital over a period of one year. A total of 250 clinically diagnosed patients of otomycosis of age above one year were included in the study. We evaluated age and sex distribution, predisposing factors and complaints of the clinically diagnosed patients for otomycosis. All samples collected were transported and evaluated by both direct microscopic examination and culture method for bacteria and fungi examination, which were identified by standard procedures. Among 250 samples, 46.22% yielded fungal growth, 21.33% grew bacteria only and 32.44% showed mixed growth of fungi and bacteria. Major fungal isolates were Aspergillus (n=121) including 75 isolates of Aspergillus section Nigri, 20 isolates of Aspergillus section Flavi, 13 isolates of Aspergillus section Fumigati, 8 isolates of Aspergillus section Nudilante and 5 isolates of Aspergillus section Terrei. 48 isolates were identified as Candida species. Major bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus aureus (n=45) followed by Pseudomonas species (n=26), Klebsiella species (n=21), Escherichia coli (n=7) and Proteus species (n=3). This study highlights the highest isolation of Aspergillus section Nigri in cases of clinically diagnosed otomycosis patients at the two reference hospital in Yaoundé, Cameroon with high prevalence seen in patients using antibiotic eardrops as a mean of treatment from pains and itching.
Abstract: Otomycosis is a superficial, sub-acute or chronic infection of the external auditory canal, characterized by pruritis, inflammation, pain and itching commonly seen in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Various host and environmental factors can predispose a person to otomycosis. However, a clinical presentation along with otoscopic obse...
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The Proportion of Asymptomatic Cases Among SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients: A Systematic Review
Abdi Birhanu,
Teka Obsa Feyisa,
Getahun Chala
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 5, October 2020
Pages:
84-89
Received:
4 August 2020
Accepted:
21 August 2020
Published:
7 September 2020
Abstract: Even though some reports unveiled that coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) cases can be manifested as asymptomatic, there is limited information on how much these cases are significant. Understanding the possible proportion of asymptomatic cases among confirmed patients might help in re-considering of who should be tested for the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, this study was aimed to summarize the proportion of asymptomatic cases among SARS-COV-2 infected people since the outbreak of COVID-19. Methods: Different studies were searched from databases (PubMed, Medline) by using searching terms. Finally, all eligible articles were selected by using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2009 flow diagram. Results: A total of 14 articles that reported asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 were included in this systematic review. The sample size of the studies was ranged from 8 to 2143. Out of the total cases, the overall proportion of asymptomatic cases was 25.9% that ranged from 3.23% to 78%. This systematic review also summarized that there was 17. 6%, 4.8%, and 3.23% to 62.2% of asymptomatic cases among pregnant mothers, children, and the adult general population, respectively. Conclusion and Remarks: This review showed that the proportion of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infected people is high. Hence, to tackle COVID-19, all concerned bodies should strengthen the screening of asymptomatic cases as part of contact tracing efforts.
Abstract: Even though some reports unveiled that coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) cases can be manifested as asymptomatic, there is limited information on how much these cases are significant. Understanding the possible proportion of asymptomatic cases among confirmed patients might help in re-considering of who should be tested for the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Ther...
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Sero-diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis and Molecular Detection of Genital Oncogenic Human Papilloma Virus Among Cameroonian Women
Bernard Wabo,
Dickson Shey Nsagha,
Théophile Njamen Nana,
Clement Jules Nguedia Assob
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 5, October 2020
Pages:
90-99
Received:
19 August 2020
Accepted:
2 September 2020
Published:
16 September 2020
Abstract: Cervical cancer is a preventable public health concern ranking second among women’s cancer in Cameroon. Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the main causative agent with Chlamydia trachomatis being suggested as the co-factor. Our objective was to characterize high risk (hr) HPV types and to detect Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies among Cameroonian women with and without cervical cancer. Methods: This unmatched case-control study enrolled 100 cases with cervical cancer and 200 controls with normal cytology aged 25- 65 years in four reference hospitals in Douala and Yaoundé (Cameroon). Consented participants filled a structured questionnaire and data on socio-demographic characteristics collected. Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies were detected by the Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay technique (ELISA) and hr HPV- DNA by PCR technique. Descriptive statistics was conducted to provide frequencies and percentages and the logistic regression analysis to assess the association between categorical data. p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Our data showed 39 (39.0%) cases aged 39-52 years compared to 96 (48.0%) controls aged 25-38 years (p=0.001). We found 82 (82.0%) cases compared to 131 (65.5%) controls with hr HPV infections. HPV 16 was most prevalent being found in 29 (29.0%) cases compared to 69 (34.5%) controls. Chlamydia trachomatis IgG / hr HPV co-infections were detected in 20 (20.0%) cases compared to 33 (16.5%) controls but with no significant association with cervical cancer (aOR=1.87; 95%CI: 0.58-5.97; p=0.293). Chlamydia trachomatis IgM (aOR=3.50; 95%CI: 1.16-10.49; p=0.025) was significantly associated with cervical cancer. Conclusion: Hr HPV- DNA was high in cases than in controls. Chlamydia trachomatis single infection and Chlamydia trachomatis/hr HPV co-infections were not significantly associated to precancerous lesions thus, necessitating further investigations.
Abstract: Cervical cancer is a preventable public health concern ranking second among women’s cancer in Cameroon. Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the main causative agent with Chlamydia trachomatis being suggested as the co-factor. Our objective was to characterize high risk (hr) HPV types and to detect Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies among Cameroonian women...
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Leukoaraiosis in a 54 Year Old Nigerian Male: A Case Report
Edeh Samuel,
Okafor Umezurike,
Fintan Ekochin,
Nwafor Samuel
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 5, October 2020
Pages:
100-103
Received:
17 August 2020
Accepted:
31 August 2020
Published:
23 September 2020
Abstract: Background: Leukoaraiosis is a chronic atherosclerotic disease with an abnormal periventricular and cerebral white matter disease. Hypertension and old age were reported as the most-important risk factor for leukoaraiosis. Other risk factors like diabetes mellitus, abdominal obesity, hyperlipidaemia, tobacco use, alcohol abuse and chronic kidney disease has been reported. The aim of this case report is to highlight leukoaraiosis in a 54 year old Nigerian who presented with neurological manifestation. Case information: we report a case of a 54 year old male with long standing hypertension presenting with features of leukoaraiosis. Result: the diagnosis was confirmed with MRI which revealed scattered nodular white matter T2 and FLAIR hyperintensities in the cerebral cortices with fluid restriction on diffusion weighted imaging. Conclusion: detailed identification and control of risk factors are the main stay of treatment for leukoaraiosis. Hypertension was managed via proper education on dietary and life style modifications, medications and regular follow-up in clinics.
Abstract: Background: Leukoaraiosis is a chronic atherosclerotic disease with an abnormal periventricular and cerebral white matter disease. Hypertension and old age were reported as the most-important risk factor for leukoaraiosis. Other risk factors like diabetes mellitus, abdominal obesity, hyperlipidaemia, tobacco use, alcohol abuse and chronic kidney di...
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Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome in Pregnant Women in the Centre and Littoral Regions of Cameroon
Jules Destin Djeufouata,
Walter Ebot Ojong,
Theophile Nana Njamen,
Jules Clement Nguedia Assob,
Bruno Phelix Telefo
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 5, October 2020
Pages:
104-115
Received:
21 June 2020
Accepted:
9 July 2020
Published:
13 October 2020
Abstract: Background: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) has increased exponentially this last decades in sub Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, its components and the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome in Cameroonian pregnant women. Methods: It was a hospital-based cross sectional study involving pregnant women recruited in 16 public health facilities in the Centre and Littoral Regions of Cameroon. Socio-demographic factors and medical history were recorded using a structured questionnaire. Blood samples were collected and biochemical analyses were performed at the Laboratory Unit of the Bangangté District Hospital. The criteria given by National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III 2004) were modified to adapt in pregnancy state and used for assessment of metabolic syndrome. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation test, Student-test, and multivariable logistic regression were used in this study. Results: A total of 859 pregnant women aged from 17 to 45 years were enrolled. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 7.0%. The prevalence of individual components of metabolic syndrome were: hyperglycaemia (47.1%), obesity (24.0%), hypertension (20.5%), Low High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (16.3%) and hypertriglyceridaemia (3.7%). Participants with metabolic syndrome had higher mean values of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, body mass index, triglycerides and lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol compared to those without metabolic syndrome. There was no significant association between socio-demographic factors and metabolic syndrome. High parity, family (parents) history of type 2 diabetes mellitus were positively associated with metabolic syndrome. Parity and gravidity were positively correlated with obesity. Obesity, hyperglycaemia, high systolic blood pressure, low high density lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly associated with metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, 72.6% of participants displayed at least one risk factor of metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is common in the Cameroonian pregnant women and its most prevalent components are hyperglycaemia and obesity. Increased in parity and parent history of type 2 diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with metabolic syndrome. Also, more than two-third of participants have at least one component of metabolic syndrome. The high prevalence of metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, obesity and hypertension demonstrates the need to closely follow up pregnant women in order to minimize the risk of metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, maternal and foetal adverse outcomes.
Abstract: Background: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) has increased exponentially this last decades in sub Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, its components and the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome in Cameroonian pregnant women. Methods: It was a hospital-based cross sectional...
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