Characterization and frequency of biofilms in adenotonsillitis: a retrospective study from a tertiary hospital in North-Eastern Nigeria

Background: Adenotonsillitis, a common condition characterized by inflammation of the adenoids and tonsils, is caused by bacterial and fungal pathogens. Biofilm formation has been linked to disease chronicity and antibiotic resistance. However, the role of biofilms in adenotonsillitis remains poorly understood. This study aims to explore biofilms in adenotonsillitis biopsies, focusing on their characterization, frequency, and demographic distribution by determining the expression of polysaccharides in the biofilm matrix using Congo red stain, determining the presence and frequency of bacterial as well as fungal biofilms in adenotonsillar tissue, investigating any potential associations with disease severity, and evaluating the age and sex distribution of patients with adenotonsillitis. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded adenotonsillitis biopsies (n=50) collected from the university of Maiduguri teaching hospital. The expression of polysaccharides in the biofilm matrix was assessed using congo red stain. Bacterial and fungal biofilms were visualized using crystal violet and Gomori methenamine silver (GMS) stains, respectively. Data on patient demographics, diagnoses, and biofilm characteristics were analyzed. Results: Adenoidtonsillitis was the most common diagnosis (82%), predominantly affecting children aged 0-9 years (76%). Gram's reaction was positive in 70% of cases, while Congo red staining indicated polysaccharide expression in 60%. GMS staining revealed fungal elements in 18% of cases. Conclusions: This study sheds light on the characterization and frequency of bacterial and fungal biofilms in adenotonsillitis, emphasizing importance of biofilms in disease development and persistence. Understanding biofilm-associated infections can improve diagnostic and treatment strategies for adenotonsillitis in Nigeria and beyond

Molecular Detection of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus Among Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: A Peripheral Blood Sample Approach and Assessment of the Associated Risk Factors

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive loss of functional nephron characterized by various risk factors. Influenza virus has been found to cause rhabdomyolysis, which is toxic to the kidneys and can initiate or worsen CKD. This study aims to investigate the frequency and molecular detection of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus gene among CKD patients attending University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.Materials and Methods: Peripheral blood samples were collected from 150 CKD patients. One-step RT-PCR was performed for detection of influenza virus using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention protocol. Relevant clinical data were collected in standardized questionnaires from each patient, and medical history was obtained from their hospital records.Results: Conventional PCR analysis revealed that 16% of the CKD patients tested positive for Inf A/Pdm H1N1. The virus frequency was found to be higher among patients in CKD stage 5 (end-stage CKD) and lower in CKD stage 3 (moderate CKD). Additionally, female CKD patients and those in the age group of 55-64 years showed a higher susceptibility to Inf A/Pdm H1N1 infection.Discussion: The study provides evidence of the presence of Inf A/Pdm H1N1 in CKD patients, aligning with previous research showing its involvement in kidney disease aggravation. CKD patients often exhibit immune dysregulation, which might facilitate the virus's invasion and persistence. Conclusion: This study provides evidence of an association between Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 viraemia and decreased kidney function among CKD patients. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring and preventing influenza infection in CKD patients to prevent further kidney damage

The Lancet Nigeria Commission: investing in health and the future of the nation.

Funder: Wellcome TrustHealth is central to the development of any country. Nigeria’s gross domestic product is the largest in Africa, but its per capita income of about ₦770 000 (US$2000) is low with a highly inequitable distribution of income, wealth, and therefore, health. It is a picture of poverty amidst plenty. Nigeria is both a wealthy country and a very poor one. About 40% of Nigerians live in poverty, in social conditions that create ill health, and with the ever-present risk of catastrophic expenditures from high out-of-pocket spending for health. Even compared with countries of similar income levels in Africa, Nigeria’s population health outcomes are poor, with national statistics masking drastic differences between rich and poor, urban and rural populations, and different regions