Study on various anthropometric parameters in Beta-thalassemia Major Patients in tertiary rural hospital, Loni

BMI, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), and waist-to-hip ratio were recorded. These parameters were analyzed in relation to clinical variables such as serum ferritin levels, transfusion history, and pre-transfusion hemoglobin levels. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS statistics version 28.0. Results: The study revealed significant growth retardation with 51.4% of patients showing height-for-age z-scores below -2 SD (mean -2.1 ± 1.3). The mean age of the study population was 8.4 ± 2.1 years, with an average transfusion dependency of 6.6 ± 2.3 years. Weight-for-age and BMI z-scores were also compromised (-1.8 ± 1.1 and -1.2 ± 0.9 respectively). Strong negative correlations were observed between serum ferritin levels and growth parameters (r = -0.45 for height-for-age z-score, p < 0.01). Duration of transfusion therapy showed moderate negative correlation with height-for-age z-scores (r = -0.42, p = 0.012) and weight-for-age z-scores (r = -0.38, p = 0.024). Conclusion: This study highlights significant anthropometric deficits in young BTM patients from rural settings, with growth retardation evident even in early childhood. The findings suggest that optimization of chelation therapy and nutritional support, along with strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure, are crucial for improving growth outcomes in these patients. Regular monitoring of growth parameters and early intervention strategies are essential for managing growth abnormalities in young thalassemic patients

Pediatric Pyogenic Meningitis: A Comprehensive Analysis of Clinical Course and Outcomes

Background: Pediatric pyogenic meningitis remains a significant global health challenge despite modern therapeutic advances. This prospective observational study aimed to analyze the clinical course, microbiological profile, treatment outcomes, and prognostic factors in children with pyogenic meningitis. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of 157 children aged 1 month to 12 years diagnosed with pyogenic meningitis at Department of Pediatrics, DBVP RMC, PIMS(DU), Loni. The study evaluated clinical presentations, laboratory findings, microbiological profiles, treatment responses, and outcomes through a structured follow-up period of 6 months. Results: The median age of presentation was 2.8 years, with male predominance (58.6%). Causative organisms were identified in 71.3% of cases, with Streptococcus pneumoniae (42.9%) being the most prevalent pathogen, followed by Neisseria meningitidis (27.7%) and Haemophilus influenzae (16.1%). Significant antibiotic resistance was observed, with 22.9% of S. pneumoniae isolates showing penicillin resistance. The overall mortality rate was 10.8%, while 26.8% of survivors developed neurological sequelae. At 6-month follow-up, hearing impairment emerged as the most common long-term complication (17.2%). Multivariate analysis identified age <1 year (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4-5.6), admission Glasgow Coma Scale <12 (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.8-6.9), and delayed presentation (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2-4.8) as significant predictors of adverse outcomes. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the persistent burden of pediatric pyogenic meningitis and identify critical prognostic factors that can guide clinical management. The emergence of antibiotic resistance and high rates of neurological sequelae emphasize the need for enhanced surveillance, updated treatment protocols, and structured follow-up programs. Early recognition and prompt intervention remain crucial for improving outcomes in this serious infection

Surgical Management of Non-malignant Cases by Tracheostomy in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Tracheostomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure that involves creating an opening through the neck into the trachea to establish an airway. It can be performed for both malignant and non-malignant conditions. In non-malignant cases, tracheostomy is typically indicated in scenarios where long-term airway management is necessary, and it is often performed in tertiary care hospitals, where specialized expertise is available. Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the surgical management of non-malignant cases by tracheostomy in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of ENT, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh during June 2022 to May 2023. A total of 100 patients participated in the study. Statistical analyses of the results were obtained by using window-based Microsoft Excel and Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS-24). Results: In this study, according to the age distribution, 10% of the patients were aged 15 to 24 years. Furthermore, 38% were between the ages of 35 and 44, with 12% between the ages of 55 and 64. And the majority 57% of the patients were male, while 43% were female. According to the socioeconomic position of the study population, 27% come from low class, 42% from middle class, and 31% from high class families. Conclusion: The surgical management of non-malignant cases requiring tracheostomy in tertiary care hospitals is highly specialized and ensures optimal outcomes through a multidisciplinary approach

Femoral Neck System (FNS): A Biomechanical Strong Solution for Stable Fixation in Basi cervical Neck of Femur Fractures

Background: Due to their rarity and probable instability, basicervical femoral neck fractures whose frequency ranges from 1.8 to 7.6% present difficulties and have higher repair failure rates than intertrochanteric fractures. Even though the fracture site is extracapsular, surgical treatment is still difficult. Objectives: This study was done for assessment of femoral neck system (FNS) as a biomechanical strong solution for stable fixation in basicervical neck of femur fractures. Methods: The cross-sectional Observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedic, National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) from June 2022 to May 2023. A total of 30 patients of both sexes were included in the study. Data was collected over a period of 12 months and analyzed by appropriate computer based programmed software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 24. Results: In this study, most of the respondents 18 (60.7%) lies between 51 years to 60 years. Mean ± SD of the respondents was 52.41 ± 6.75 years. More than half of the patient 19 (63.30%) were male and 11 (36.70%) patients were female. Most of the patients 17 (56.7%) BMI were in between normal range, 7 (23.3%) were underweight and 6 (20.0%) were overweight. Mean ± SD of the patients BMI was 25.3 ± 5.4 kg/m2. About 12 (40.0%) patients had type III garden fracture, 9 (30.0%) patients had type II garden fracture, and 9 (30.0%) patients had type I garden fracture. Most of the patients 21 (70.0%) had type II Pauwels fracture. The average surgery time was 76.65 ± 34.25 min, the blood loss was 67.45 ± 51.43 ml, the Preoperative Harris Score was 22.25 ± 4.56 and the Postoperative Harris Score was 83.80 ± 5.78, the healing time was 3.33 ± 0.60 and Femoral neck shortens was 2.20 ± 1.41mm. Non-union had occurred in case of 3 (10.0%) patients, Femoral neck shortening had occurred in 2 (6.7%) case and Femoral neck necrosis had occurred in 1 (3.3%) case. Conclusion: FNS treatment can produce good clinical outcomes for patients with basi cervical femoral neck fractures. FNS exhibits much greater overall construct stability and superior biomechanical qualities. Key words: Femoral neck system, Femoral neck fracture, Harris Hip Score, Surgical fixation device

Prevalence and Pattern of Anemia and Micronutrient Deficiencies in Children with Severe Acute Malnutrition at a Tertiary Care Center: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) remains a major health concern in developing countries like India, significantly contributing to pediatric morbidity and mortality. Children with SAM are particularly vulnerable to infections and anemia due to impaired immune response and nutritional deficiencies. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of anemia in children under 60 months diagnosed with SAM. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 11 months at Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences DU, Loni involving 48 children with SAM. Detailed demographic profiles and medical histories were collected using a predesigned proforma. Anthropometric measurements and laboratory investigations, including hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, folate, and vitamin B12 levels, were performed. Anemia was classified based on hemoglobin levels into mild, moderate, and severe categories. Results: Results revealed that 37 (77.1%) children were anemic, with 9 (24.3%) having mild anemia, 25 (67.6%) moderate anemia, and 3 (8.1%) severe anemia. Low serum iron levels were identified in 21 (43.8%) children, with a higher prevalence in females. Abnormal ferritin levels were observed in 24 (50%), folate deficiency in 15 (31.3%), and vitamin B12 deficiency in 29 (60.4%) children. Conclusion: Addressing anemia in children with SAM requires early interventions, starting with maternal nutrition during pregnancy and promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Continued breastfeeding, appropriate complementary feeding, and caregiver education during routine child health visits are essential. Preventing, detecting, and managing anemia in children with SAM can significantly reduce associated morbidity and mortality

Young Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes – Genetics, screening controversies, and prevention

Background and Objectives: Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young athletes remains a devastating event with significant prevention potential through genetic understanding and screening strategies. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on genetic factors, screening controversies, and prevention approaches for SCD in athletes under 35 years. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive systematic review following PRISMA guidelines, searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science from 2000-2025. Studies examining genetic causes, screening methods, and prevention strategies for athletic SCD were included. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed where appropriate, with quality assessment using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results: Of 3,847 identified records, 127 studies involving 47,892 athletes from 34 countries were included. Pathogenic variants were identified in 56.5% of SCD cases, with sarcomere protein variants (33.7%) being most common, showing strongest association with structural heart disease (OR 4.7, 95% CI: 3.2-6.9). Comprehensive screening protocols detected conditions in 16.1 per 1000 athletes versus 3.8 per 1000 with basic screening. European programs demonstrated superior detection rates (16.8‰) but higher false-positive rates (8.7%) compared to American approaches (4.2‰ detection, 2.1% false-positive). Meta-analysis of ECG-inclusive screening showed pooled sensitivity of 73.4% (95% CI: 65.2-80.8%). Intervention strategies reduced SCD risk by 85% (HR 0.15, 95% CI: 0.09-0.25), with 5-year event-free survival of 98% versus 87% in controls. Conclusions: Genetic factors contribute substantially to athletic SCD, with population-specific variations requiring tailored approaches. Comprehensive screening significantly improves detection rates despite increased false-positives. Evidence-based interventions dramatically reduce SCD risk, supporting implementation of systematic screening and risk-stratified management protocols

A Case of Ostraceous Psoriasis in a 14-Year-Old Boy cured at Dr Batra’s

Ostraceous psoriasis is a rare and severe form of chronic plaque psoriasis, characterized by thick, oyster shell-like scales that firmly adhere to the underlying skin. The disease primarily affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back, though extensive involvement can occur. Globally, psoriasis affects approximately 2–3% of the population, with ostraceous variants representing a small subset of chronic, treatment-resistant cases [1]

Frequency and Patterns of Eye Diseases in Outpatient Department in a Sub-Urban Clinic

Background: Eye diseases are a major cause of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. In Bangladesh, conditions such as refractive errors, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome contribute significantly to vision-related morbidity. Understanding the frequency and patterns of eye diseases in outpatient settings is crucial for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and the prevention of avoidable blindness. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of eye diseases among patients attending the outpatient department of Bashundhara Ad-din Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from January 2024 to December 2024. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 98 patients aged 2 years and older who presented with eye-related complaints. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, clinical examinations, and medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26, and results were presented in text, tables, and charts. Results: Refractive errors (61.2%) were the most prevalent eye condition among patients, followed by dry eye syndrome (24.5%) and cataracts (16.3%). The most commonly reported symptoms included blurred vision (71.4%), eye pain (49%), and watering/tearing (44.9%). In terms of management, medications (71.4%) were the primary treatment approach, followed by spectacle prescriptions (59.2%) and surgical interventions (20.4%). Notably, no cases of diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, corneal ulcer infections, or trauma-related injuries were observed in the study population. Conclusion: The study highlights the high prevalence of refractive errors, dry eye syndrome, and cataracts among OPD patients. These findings emphasize the need for regular vision screening programs, early detection strategies, and improved access to corrective eyewear and treatment options. Strengthening public health initiatives and referral systems can help reduce the burden of preventable blindness and improve eye care services in sub-urban healthcare facilities

Iron Deficiency Anemia as a Risk Factor for Simple Febrile Seizures in Children Between 6 Months and 5 Years: A Case-Control Study

Background: Iron deficiency anemia and febrile seizures are common pediatric conditions, yet their relationship remains incompletely understood. This study investigated the association between iron deficiency anemia and simple febrile seizures in children aged 6 months to 5 years. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 90 children (45 cases with simple febrile seizures and 45 age and sex-matched controls with fever without seizures). Complete blood count, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity, and serum ferritin levels were measured in all participants. Iron deficiency anemia was defined according to WHO criteria, and statistical analysis included multivariate logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders. Results: Iron deficiency anemia was significantly more prevalent in the case group (71.1%) compared to controls (31.1%). Children with febrile seizures had lower mean hemoglobin (9.8 ± 1.4 g/dL vs. 11.2 ± 1.2 g/dL, p<0.001) and serum ferritin levels (median 8.6 ng/mL vs. 18.4 ng/mL, p<0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed iron deficiency anemia as an independent risk factor for febrile seizures (adjusted OR: 3.28, 95% CI: 1.75-6.12, p<0.001). A significant negative correlation was observed between serum ferritin levels and peak temperature during febrile episodes (r = -0.42, p<0.001). Conclusion: This study demonstrates a strong association between iron deficiency anemia and simple febrile seizures in young children. The findings suggest that screening for iron deficiency may be warranted in children presenting with febrile seizures, and iron supplementation could potentially play a role in preventing such episodes

Comparative Study of TB Treatment Outcomes Among Non-Diabetics, Controlled Diabetics, and Uncontrolled Diabetic Patients

Objectives: This study was done to compare the clinical characteristics, bacteriological pattern and treatment outcomes, among non-diabetics, controlled and uncontrolled diabetics. Theoretical Framework: TB continues to be a major global public health concern, with millions of cases reported annually. While there are treatment regimens with high cure rates, achieving optimal outcomes can be significantly challenged by the presence of co-morbidities like DM. Methods: This study was an observational type of analytical study conducted in the Department of Respiratory Medicine, SNMC Agra. Patients who were sputum positive and registered under NTEP were included in this study, PTB patients were screened for DM using Fasting and 2 hour Post Prandial Blood glucose test and Hba1c. Results and Discussion: Patients with DM both controlled and uncontrolled experienced more severe clinical manifestations, delayed sputum conversion, and poorer treatment outcomes as compared to non-diabetics . There were higher cases of  drug resistance, treatment failure, loss to follow-up cases and mortality in uncontrolled diabetics while best Treatment outcomes were observed in Non-Diabetics. Research Implications: Given the growing epidemic of DM worldwide it is necessary to add DM prevention and control strategies to TB control programmes  during the course of TB treatment, Proper management of DM with improved glucose control and regular monitoring can affect the treatment outcomes in TB patients, as evidenced in our study. Originality: By meticulously evaluating treatment success rates, and exploring potential influencing factors, this study aims to establish a clearer picture of the link  between diabetes control and TB treatment