2 research outputs found
Ultrasonographic and biochemical assessments as early prediction of polycystic ovarian syndrome in obese women
Backgroud: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered as a common
cause of hormonal disturbance and obesity. The diagnosis of PCOS was
done by different methods including clinical signs as anovulation,
hyperandrogenism, biochemical markers and ultrasounographic
investigation. This study investigated comparative outcomes of
ultrasonographic and biochemical markers for early prediction of PCOS
in obese women. Subjects and methods: Seventy-five patients were
clinically diagnosed with obese, PCOS and obese with PCOS and
twenty-five normal age matched subjects were enrolled as control.
Abdominal and transvaginal ultrasonographic for assessment of ovarian
properties. In addition, BMI, serum free testosterone,
dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
and LDL-c levels were evaluated. Results: In obese patients with PCOs
(20%) ovaries revealed normal appearance in morphology while the rest
(80%) showed PCOs in the form of cysts of 2\u20138 mm in diameter
peripherally arranged around stroma. A significant elevation of free
testosterone, DHEA and insulin in obese with or without PCOS compared
with obese group (p<0.001). A positive correlation with hormonal
abnormalities of increased HA1c, LDL-c, free testosterone, DHEA and
insulin compared with obese only. Conclusion: According to our study
findings, ovarian morphology combined with biochemical markers is more
reliable for early prediction and diagnosis of PCOS for interpretation
and management
Hemorrhagic fever in Saudi Arabia: challenge to public health, effective management and future considerations
Background: Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) refers to a group of febrile
illnesses caused by different viruses that result in high mortality in
animals and humans. Many risk factors like increased human-animal
interactions, climate change, increased mobility of people and limited
diagnostic facility have contributed to the rapid spread of VHF.
Materials: The history of VHFs in the Saudi Arabian Peninsula has been
documented since the 19th century, in which many outbreaks have been
reported from the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Despite presence
of regional network of experts and technical organizations, which
expedite support and respond during outbreaks, there are some more
challenges that need to be addressed immediately. Gaps in funding,
exhaustive and inclusive response plans and improved surveillance
systems are some areas of concern in the region which can be dealt
productively. This review primarily focusses on the hemorrhagic fevers
that are caused by three most common viruses namely, the Alkhurma
hemorrhagic fever virus, Rift valley fever virus, and Dengue fever
virus. Conclusion: In summary, effective vector control, health
education, possible use of vaccine and concerted synchronized efforts
between different government organizations and private research
institutions will help in planning effective outbreak-prevention and
response strategies in future