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Background Timely access to safe blood and blood components is still a challenge in Nigeria. This study aimed to determine blood donation practices, processing and utilization of blood components across government tertiary hospitals (THs) in Nigeria. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study done in Nigeria in June–July 2020. Data were analysed with SPSS version 21.0. Results Data were collected from 50 THs. The majority (68%) of the THs lack facilities for blood component preparation and only 18% and 32% provide cryoprecipitate and platelet concentrate, respectively. Whole blood was most commonly requested (57.04%). All facilities tested blood for HIV, HBV and HCV, but the majority (23 [46%]) employed rapid screening tests alone and nucleic acid testing was not available in any hospitals. The manual method was the most common method of compatibility testing in 90% (45/50) and none of the THs routinely perform extended red cell typing. The average time to process routine, emergency and uncross-matched requests were a mean of 109.58±79.76 min (range 45.00–360.00), 41.62±25.23 (10.00–240.00) and 11.09±4.92 (2.00–20.00), respectively. Conclusion Facilities for blood component preparation were not widely available. Concerned government authorities should provide facilities for blood component preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antiplatelet therapy used in preventing cardiovascular events in chronic kidney disease may be associated with higher risks of bleeding, low efficacy from fewer occlusive atherosclerotic disease), attenuation of the inflammatory process, and changes in the haemogram. We prospectively determined the kidney function, the haemogram, and the lipid profile of participants with and without antiplatelet therapy. The population with a mean age of 69.21 ± 11.73 years, had more women (65.88%), p=0.001. Participants' age was positively correlated with the CKD stage, p<0.001. Bleeding was more common with clopidogrel than aspirin and, less common with advancing CKD. Cardiovascular events were more common in CKD stage 5. The men had higher eGFR but lower platelet count and platelet neutrophil ratio (PNR) than the women, p=0.004, p<0.001, and p<0.001 respectively. The eGFR, bicarbonate, and HDL cholesterol were higher with versus without antiplatelets, p=0.04, p<0.001, and p=0.001 respectively. The platelet count and PNR were higher with antiplatelet therapy and with higher CKD stage, p<0.001 and p<0.001 and, p<0.001 and p<0.001 respectively. Higher platelet count (OR-0.410, 95% CI0.02-1.04), lower uric acid levels (OR-0.550, 95% CI-0.271-0.948), higher HDL-C (OR-0.486, 95% CI-0.093- 1.013), lower LDL-C (OR-0.572, 95% CI-0.082-1.002) and lower triglycerides (OR-1.274, 95% CI-0.755-1.493) were independently associated with antiplatelet therapy. The benefits of antiplatelet therapy in CKD are anchored on its anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, and kidney function-improving effects, these synergistically lead to lower cardiovascular events. The increased risk and consequences of bleeding, and reductions in leucocytes and erythrocytes population should be borne in mind to prevent heightening morbidity and mortality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria is considered an important cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with sickle cell disease (SCD). This has partly been attributed to the loss of splenic function that occurs early in the disease process. We conducted a cross-sectional study and determined the frequency of malaria infection among SCD patients and explored the association with spleen's presence on ultrasonography and spleen function assessed using the frequency of Howell-Jolly bodies (HJBs). A total of 395 participants consisting of 119 acutely-ill SCD patients, 168 steady-state SCD controls, and 108 healthy non-SCD controls were studied. The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia was 51.3% in acutely-ill SCD patients, 31.7% in steady-state SCD controls, and 11.0% in the healthy non-SCD controls; however, the mean parasite density was significantly higher in the non-SCD controls compared to both SCD groups (p = 0.0001). Among the acutely-ill SCD patients, the prevalence of clinical malaria and severe malaria anemia were highest in children <5 years of age. The prevalence of parasitemia (p = 0.540) and parasite density (p = 0.975) showed no association with spleen presence or absence on ultrasonography. Similarly, the frequency of HJB red cells was not associated with the presence of parasitemia (p = 0.183). Our study highlights the frequency and role of malaria infection in acutely-ill SCD patients, especially in those younger than five years. Although we have found no evidence of an increased risk of malaria parasitemia or parasite density with markers of hyposplenism, the role played by an underlying immunity to malaria among SCD patients in malaria-endemic region is not clear and needs further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxyurea was the first prophylactic drug used for sickle cell disease management because it lowers the frequency and severity of vaso- occlusive crises. It increases hemoglobin which carries oxygen round the body by prolonging red blood cell life span, hydration, rheology (of?) and normalizes elevated white blood cells. Hydroxyurea reduces the need for hospitalization and blood transfusion in children and adult sickle cell patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of hydroxyurea in the management of sickle cell patients in a study population. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted using a sample of 59 patients with sickle cell disease receiving hydroxyurea at the Quality Control Unit of the Pharmacy Department of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City. The questionnaire was both interviewer- and self-administered, and responses were entered and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results were represented as frequencies and percentages. Ethical considerations were observed. About 81.4% of the patients recruited were presently being treated with hydroxyurea, 45.8% were females and 50% were within 5 – 14 years of age. About 67.9% of patients using hydroxyurea had no pain crises, 83.0% had on blood transfusion in the last one year. Self- reported health improvement was high (75.5%) and 90.6% of the patients attested to the effectiveness of hydroxyurea. It can thus be concluded that hydroxyurea reduced the frequency of pain crises, hospitalization and blood transfusion among SCD patients. Morbidity and mortality associated with sickle cell disease had been reduced among SCD patients in this health facility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Sanamed is the property of Sanamed and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Landolphia dulcis has been extensively used in folk medicine as sex booster, antidiabetic and antimicrobial especially in western part of Nigeria. • The solvent extracts of L. dulcis were investigated against plasmodium berghei NK65 (chloroquine-sensitive) strain using curative assay. • The chemo-profile investigation of crude extracts revealed the presence of steroids, alkaloids, saponins, phenols, tannins and flavonoids. • According to quantitative phytochemical screening, total phenolic, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids and flavonoid content were abundant in ethanolic (50%) extracts. • Among the extracts, the ethanol bark extract exhibited the highest plasmodium inhibitory potential of 87.7% while inhibitory of 53.61% was exhibited by ethanolic leaves extract. Landolphia dulcis has been extensively used in folk medicine as sex booster, antidiabetic and antimicrobial especially in Western part of Nigeria. This research aims to investigate the curative potency of L. dulcis leaves and bark in Plasmodium infected mice. The extracts of L. dulcis were investigated against Plasmodiun bergei NK65, a chloroquine sensitive strain using curative assay. Parameters such as percentage inhibition, level of infected red blood cells (parasitaemia), weight variation and packed cell volume were evaluated in experimental mice. The crude extracts were assessed using standard phytochemical methods. The phytochemical screenings of crude extracts revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, steroids and flavonoids. According to quantitative phytochemical screening, total phenolic, tannins, and flavonoid content were abundant in ethanol (50%) extracts. A significant increase in body weight of extract and chloroquine treated mice was observed; however, a reduction of -3.000 g was evident in group without treatment. A significant increase was observed in packed cell volume of 200 and 400 mg/kg of ethanol (50%) extracts treated groups. An inhibitory activity of 87.7% and 53.61% were observed in 400 mg/kg ethanolic bark extract and 200 mg/kg ethanol (50%) leaves extract respectively, though, inhibitory activity of 100% was observed in chloroquine treated group. The outcomes of this study recommend the use of L. dulcis bark and leaves as a therapeutic agent for management of malaria and as a prospective antimalarial templates. Further studies are needed to investigate the safety and the mechanisms of action of the L. dulcis extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sickle cell disease is an autosomal recessive disorder of the beta-globin gene, with resultant deformation of the red blood cells and variable clinical outcomes. Nigeria is recognised as the country with the highest burden of sickle cell disease globally. This study aimed at critically reviewing available literature on impact of sickle cell disease in Nigeria. A literature search was carried out on four databases, and a total of 116 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in the critical review. It was observed that majority of the studies were carried out in South-Western part of Nigeria (47.4%), whilst the North-East had the least number of studies undertaken in this area, more than a quarter of the studies (27.6%) were related to hematologic and serologic screening. Major themes that emerged from this review were morbidity and mortality; prevalence of sickle cell disease; issues relating to blood transfusion; psychosocial impact; and anatomical dysfunction in sickle cell disease. Intervention programs from both government and non-governmental organizations aimed at reducing the burden of sickle cell disease and its socio-economic impact were identified as key to strategies aimed at overcoming challenges associated with the disease. Findings from this study also revealed that education and awareness interventions were central to reducing the prevalence of sickle cell disease in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sickle cell disease is a genetic abnormality involving the haemoglobin synthesis. Although it is a primary red cell disorder, white blood cells (WBC) and platelets are also affected by the mutation. Aim: To assess and compare the hematological parameters of homozygous sickle cell disease in a steady state with age-matched and sex-matched hemoglobin AA controls. Methods: A total of 150 apparently healthy young adults (18-35 years) participated in this study. They were classified into two groups 88 cases with hemoglobin SS and 62 controls. Venous blood collected into EDTA tubes from participants were used for the full blood count analysis which was done using hematological autoanalyzer (SFRI blood cell counter, H18 light, France). The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and the alpha value was set at P value less than 0.05. Results: The mean values for white blood cell, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean cell volume, red cell distribution width and platelet count were significantly higher in the Hb SS cohort while the packed cell volume and red cell count were significantly lower in the Hb SS cohort. Conclusions: homozygous sickle cell disease patients have lower values of hemoglobin concentration, PCV, the red cell indices but higher values of white cell count and platelets compared with hemoglobin phenotype AA controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emamectin benzoate (EMB) is a potent neurotoxic pesticide, extensively used in agriculture and aquaculture in Nigeria. The knowledge of its toxicological impact to C. gariepinus in Nigeria is scarce. Thus, the investigation was designed to uncover its 96 h LC50, safe level to aquatic media, histological impact on fish liver, gill and hematological changes in the blood parameters. 96 h LC50 was 0.34 mg L−1. Safe level of EMB was 0.034 mg L−1. Dose dependent liver degenerations were characterized by; Congestion of the central vein by inflammatory cells, pyknotic nuclei of hepatocytes, coagulation necrosis, focal necrosis, dilations of sinusoidal spaces and infiltration of periportal regions by inflammatory cells. Dose dependent changes in gill were characterized by; mucus secretion, shrinkage of secondary lamellae, hyperplasia, occlusion of secondary lamellae, degeneration of gill cartilage, necrosis of respiratory epithelia and erosion of secondary lamellae. Red blood cell indices decreased minimally at the end of the 96 h exposure. White blood cell count (WBCC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) elevated in three treatments. Neutrophils decreased significantly (p ≤ 0.05), basophils, eosinophils and monocytes showed mixed tendencies. The findings of this investigation imply that C. garipinus exposed to EMB may cause dose and time-dependent changes in the liver and gill histology as well as alterations in the fish's hematological profile, all of which were harmful to the fish's health. To avoid negative effects on fish in nearby aquatic settings, it is advised that the use of EMB be monitored and limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder with its highest prevalence in Nigeria. The condition causes red blood cells to turn rigid, and consequently, results to several complications including organ damage. This study aimed at assessing views of health practitioners in Nigeria on policies and practices in the area of access to healthcare services for sickle cell disease. Methods: A cross‐sectional study was undertaken amongst healthcare professionals in Nigeria. Data were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire, and analyses were undertaken using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. Results: A significant proportion of the participants (42.8%) disagreed that relevant legislative framework exists to facilitate optimal access to high‐quality healthcare services for persons with sickle cell disorder in Nigeria. Two‐thirds of the study cohort were of the opinion that public health surveillance towards sickle cell disease was suboptimal (61.2%). Also, more than three‐quarters of the respondents (78.7%) indicated that the cost of managing sickle cell disease was not affordable to majority of affected Nigerians. Conclusion: This study provides critical insights into access to healthcare services for sickle cell disease. As such, challenges preventing access to healthcare services for sickle cell patients which have been identified in this study can underpin the development of contextual policies to address them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anemia is a common malaria-associated complication in pregnant women in endemic regions. Phosphatidylserine (PS) is exposed to the immune system during the massive destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) that accompany malaria, and antibodies against PS have been linked to anemia through destruction of uninfected RBCs. We determined levels of anti-PS IgG antibodies in pregnant women in Ibadan, Nigeria and correlated them to parameters of importance in development of anemia and immunity. Anti-PS correlated inversely with Packed Cell Volume (PCV), indicating that the antibodies could contribute to anemia. There was no correlation with anti-VAR2CSA IgG, haptoglobin or parasitemia, indicating that the modulation of anti-PS response is multifactorial in nature. Anti-PS levels were lowest in multigravidae compared to both primigravidae and secundigravidae and correlated inversely with age. In conclusion, lower levels of anti-PS in multigravidae could be beneficial in avoiding anemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The root of Waltheria indica is used in Nigeria to enhance libido. This study evaluated the aphrodisiac potential and toxicological profile of ethanol root extract (EEWI) in male Wistar rats. Methods: The aphrodisiac potential was evaluated on the 7th and 14th days of oral administration of graded doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day) of EEWI. Anxiolytic properties were evaluated on the 7th day, while memory retention properties were evaluated on the 14th, 21st, and 28th days. Sperm parameters, toxicological profile, and antioxidant potential were evaluated on the 28th day. The in vitro antioxidant property was also evaluated. Results: In a dose-dependent manner, the extract increased mounting frequency and intromission frequency but significantly decreased mount and intromission latencies (p<0.001) on the 7th and 14th day of treatment. It prolonged ejaculatory latency. Anxiolytic and memory studies showed that the extract compared agreed with standards. Toxicologically, it was observed that all the doses used neither caused death nor any gross toxicological symptom. A significant increase (p<0.05) was observed in the concentrations of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), as well as hematological parameters such as red blood cells and hemoglobin. A significant reduction in total sperm and motile sperm cell counts was observed in rats given the highest dose. Conclusion: The extract possesses aphrodisiac action and is relatively safe. The antioxidant property may accentuate the aphrodisiac and anti-anemic use in ethnomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to determine the hematological and serum biochemical indices of growing uda rams fed diets supplemented with garlic, soybean and groundnut oils in the semiarid region of Nigeria. Sixteen (16) Uda lambs were used for this study. Treatments 2, 3 and 4 each contained 30 ml/kg garlic, Soybean and groundnut oils, respectively. Treatment 1 (control diet) did not contain any oil. The results showed significant (P<0.05) differences among the treatments in Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and Haemoglobin (Hb), while Red Blood Cell value (RBC), White Blood Cell count (WBC), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and White Blood Cell differential (with the exception of Monocytes (%)) were not significantly influenced (P>0.05) by treatment. The Conjugated Bilirubin, blood urea, Creatinine, Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG) and High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) of growing lambs supplemented with diets containing different plant oils were significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatment groups. The utilization of the diet treated with groundnut oil had the highest High Density Lipoprotein (HDL)value, which could be associated with a lower the chance of developing heart disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that mostly result in immunological reactions that affect the skin, peripheral nervous system and mucosa of the upper respiratory tract. This study aimed to evaluate hematological parameters among subjects with leprosy and deduce biomarkers for onset of leprosy reaction. Methods This was a cross-sectional study performed from September 1, 2018 to August 1, 2019. Sixty patients with leprosy (30 on multidrug therapy (MDT) and 30 that had completed MDT) and 30 apparently healthy controls were enrolled. Hematology auto-analyzer (Sysmex KX-21N by Sysmex Corporation Kobe, Japan) was used in sample analysis. ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis were used for mean comparison. Eta squared was used to assess effect size. Sensitivity and specificity were assessed using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve. Association was checked using bivariate logistics regression. Results The majority (68.3%) of the patients with leprosy were males and a larger proportion were either farmers or unemployed. The prevalence of leprosy reaction in the studied population was 40%. The following parameters were significantly (p<0.05) reduced: red cell count, hemoglobin and hematocrit in patients with leprosy compared to controls. Total white cell count, absolute lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte and eosinophil counts were significantly elevated in patients with leprosy compared to controls. The hemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume of patients with leprosy on treatment were significantly higher compared to those who had completed treatment, while the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration was significantly reduced. Overall, 65% of patients with leprosy were anemic. Eosinophil count showed good biomarker potential for leprosy reaction onset with AUC 0.709. Sex and absolute eosinophil count were associated with leprosy reaction (OR=11.194; 95%CI: 1.775-70.586). Conclusions This study has shown a high frequency of anemia in patients with leprosy, both those on treatment and those that had completed MDT, necessitating incorporation of post treatment plan in the management of leprosy. This study has reported absolute eosinophil as potential biomarker of leprosy reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Iron-deficiency anemia is an important limiting factor to a sustainable supply of blood units, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Blood transfusion practice in Nigeria is poorly developed and structured with paucity of voluntary nonremunerated blood donors and high rate of donor deferrals resulting from low hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Aims: This study aimed to assess the effect of daily supplementation of iron using Ranferon-12 on Hb level, red blood cell (RBC) indices, iron level, ferritin level, and Hb recovery in blood donors in Nigeria. Methodology: This longitudinal study was conducted at a tertiary hospital blood transfusion center from March to July 2020. Blood samples of regular donors were collected at three points in the study for the measurement of Hb and hematocrit (HCT); RBC indices including mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), and Mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC); and iron stores including serum iron, serum ferritin, and serum transferrin. The first point was at recruitment before donation of one unit of blood; the second point after the blood donation; and the third point at 6 weeks post blood donation. Following donation, participants were placed on Ranferon capsules (iron fumarate - 100 mg elemental iron) and 100 mg of tablet Vitamin C, for 6 weeks. Results: There was a moderate significant positive correlation between administration of Ranferon and change in the values of HCT, MCV, MCH, red cell distribution width, ferritin, and transferring (P < 0.05). Percentage recovery of Hb, red cell indices, and iron stores parameters after 6 weeks of daily Ranferon ranged between 89% and 100%. Conclusion: Iron supplementation using Ranferon capsule daily for 6 weeks enhances recovery of Hb, red cell indices, and iron stores with attainment of benchmark Hb levels for donation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sickle cell disease is a genetic autosomal blood disorder that causes red blood cells to turn rigid and crescent shaped. The condition ultimately results to several complications leading to organ damage. This study aimed at assessing attitudes and practices of unmarried adults towards sickle cell disease. A cross sectional study was undertaken in the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory. Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were undertaken. Male and female participants were of a similar proportion as represented by 52% and 48%. The overall mean score for attitude towards sickle disease was 6.60 ± 2.583 (range; 0–11). A higher attitude score was observed among female participants (p = 0.012), older participants reported a better attitude towards sickle cell disease (p < 0.001), and level of education also influenced perception towards the disease (p < 0.001). Three-quarters of the participants (73.4%) supported the need for contextual legislation to prohibit marriage between two sickle cell carriers. More than one-tenth of the sample (14.4%) indicated that they would marry someone with sickle cell disease irrespective of their own genotype. Whilst two-thirds of the study participants (67.1%) indicated that they would prioritise sickle cell screening in their relationships, a third of them (33.3%) expressed a contrary standpoint. Findings emanating from this research can guide Government and other critical Stakeholders in developing contextual policies and practices that will reduce the burden of sickle cell disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that mostly result in immunological reactions that affect the skin, peripheral nervous system and mucosa of the upper respiratory tract. This study aimed to evaluate hematological parameters among subjects with leprosy and deduce biomarkers for onset of leprosy reaction. Methods This was a cross-sectional study performed from September 1, 2018 to August 1, 2019. Sixty patients with leprosy (30 on multidrug therapy (MDT) and 30 that had completed MDT) and 30 apparently healthy controls were enrolled. Hematology auto-analyzer (Sysmex KX-21N by Sysmex Corporation Kobe, Japan) was used in sample analysis. ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis were used for mean comparison. Eta squared was used to assess effect size. Sensitivity and specificity were assessed using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve. Association was checked using bivariate logistics regression. Results The majority (68.3%) of the patients with leprosy were males and a larger proportion were either farmers or unemployed. The prevalence of leprosy reaction in the studied population was 40%. The following parameters were significantly (p<0.05) reduced: red cell count, hemoglobin and hematocrit in patients with leprosy compared to controls. Total white cell count, absolute lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte and eosinophil counts were significantly elevated in patients with leprosy compared to controls. The hemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume of patients with leprosy on treatment were significantly higher compared to those who had completed treatment, while the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration was significantly reduced. Overall, 65% of patients with leprosy were anemic. Eosinophil count showed good biomarker potential for leprosy reaction onset with AUC 0.709. Sex and absolute eosinophil count were associated with leprosy reaction (OR=11.194; 95%CI: 1.775-70.586). Conclusions This study has shown a high frequency of anemia in patients with leprosy, both those on treatment and those that had completed MDT, necessitating incorporation of post treatment plan in the management of leprosy. This study has reported absolute eosinophil as potential biomarker of leprosy reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antisickling and anti‐oxidative effect of the Cajanus cajan, Glycine max, and their blends were investigated in sickled erythrocytes. The powdered samples were analyzed for their nutritional and anti‐nutritional constituents. Their aqueous extracts were analyzed for in vitro antioxidant activities. The extracts were incubated with sickled erythrocytes at 37°C for 6 hours and the antisickling effect examined via microscopic analysis. The blend was the most active and its incubated cells were subjected to anti‐oxidative analysis which covers for GSH, SOD, catalase, and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Chemical functional group of the treated cells was analyzed with FTIR spectroscopy. The in silico binding of the predominant amino acid to hemoglobin was also investigated. An increased concentration of leucine was observed in the blend compared to that of C. cajan and G. max, respectively. Vitamins C, B6, and B9 were the only vitamins observed in the blend. Phytate and oxalate were present in all samples. All extracts displayed significant (p <.05) scavenging activities. Treatment with the blend exacerbated SOD and catalase activities as well as the GSH level, while suppressing LPO. FTIR analysis of the treated cells showed the presence of hydrophobic functional groups. Leucine was the predominant amino acid, and it showed a potent molecular interaction with HIS‐87 residue of the alpha chain of 1HCO. C. cajan and G. max blend inhibited sickling activities of sickle erythrocytes, while concomitantly exacerbating their endogenous antioxidant enzymes activity and modification of the functional chemistry. Practical applications: Cajanus cajan and Glycine max are among the common underutilized legumes in Nigeria. Aside their nutritional properties, these legumes have been used from time immemorial for the treatment and management of various ailments. Sickle cell anemia is a class of hemoglobinopathy common in Sub‐Saharan Africa. There have been concerns about its treatment owing to the increasing scourge of the disease coupled to the financial burden of its management. This study reports the ability of the potentials of the legumes to prevent sickling activities of sickled erythrocytes and the possible biochemical mechanism involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine parvovirus is a deadly virus affecting the Canid family, causing virus-induced destruction of rapidly dividing haemopoietic precursor cells such as crypts of intestinal epithelial cells, thymus, lymph nodes, bone marrow precursor cells, blood cells and cardiac cells leading to multi-organ dysfunctions. The aim of this study was to determine the haematological, serum biochemical and electrolytic changes associated with canine parvovirus (CPV) -2 infection. An immunochromatographic test was used to differentiate the virus-positive and negative dogs using faecal samples. One hundred and sixty whole blood and serum samples were collected from apparently healthy and CPV-2-positive dogs in Plateau State, Nigeria. Haematological, serum biochemical and electrolytic analyses were done using standard methods. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a student t-test. Significance was accepted at probability values of p < 0.05. The haematological effect of CPV-2 showed a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean Packed Cell Volume (PCV), total red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration, total white blood cell count, neutrophils, lymphocytes and platelet count. In addition, the CPV-2 significantly (P < 0.05) increased the mean aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, urea, creatinine, triglyceride and malondialdehyde, while the mean total protein, sodium, potassium, chloride and cholesterol significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in the infected dogs. From the findings, CPV infection variably and significantly affected some haematological and serum biochemical parameters of infected dogs. Therefore, clinicians should endeavour to incorporate haematinics, haptatonics and immunemodulators during the management of canine parvoviral infection as supportive drugs with fluid therapy to improve the survivability of infected animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pastoralists in Nigeria mix Garcinia kola seed (GK), Khaya senegalensis stem bark (KS) , and Vernonia amygdalina leaves (VA) to treat leptospirosis. To determine the in vitro and in vivo effect on single and combination therapy on Leptospira interrogans -infected mice. Evaluation of in vitro assay for anti-leptospiral motility of the extracts was carried out in triplicates. For the in vivo assessment, 40 adult male mice inoculated with Leptospira were randomly allocated into 8 groups of 5 mice each. Groups IV-IX were treated with 800 mg/kg b.w. of KS, GK, VA, KS + GK, KS + VA, GK + VA for 5 days. Group I was negative control, II was model control, and III was treated with penicillin (3.7 mg/kg b.w.) intramuscularly. In vitro , at 90 min, all the extracts at 800, 400, and 200 mg/ml showed complete cessation of motility which was significantly (p < 0.05) different when compared to the negative control. A significant (p < 0.05) IC 50 of 0.18 mg/ml was recorded with GK when compared to KS (0.40 mg/ml), VA (0.25 mg/ml), and procaine penicillin (0.31 mg/ml). Mean packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in all infected groups and returned to almost pre-infection values. However, significant leucocytosis (p < 0.05) was observed in group II. AST and ALP showed a significant increase (p < 0.001). Histopathological evaluation showed the extracts to prevent the distortion of normal architecture of the selected organs. This study demonstrates the significant potential of Garcinia kola , Khaya senegalensis , and Vernonia amygdalina extracts singly and in combination to combat leptospirosis. [Display omitted] • All extracts showed concentration-dependent cessation of leptospiral motility in vitro. • IC 50 of Garcinia kola (0.18 mg/ml) was significant when compared to procaine penicillin (0.31 mg/ml). • In vivo , a significant increase to almost pre-infection values was observed in the treated groups. • Aspartate amino transferase showed a significant increase in the infected untreated group. • Extracts prevented distortion of normal architecture of the selected organs for histopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria infection, caused by plasmodium parasites, is a serious health challenge for children in the tropical regions. It becomes a serious life-threatening issue when the victim also suffers from anaemia because malaria parasite feeds on the iron particles present in the red blood cells. We consider a latent Gaussian model to jointly estimate the spatial patterns of co-morbidity from malaria and the different levels of anaemia among children under five years of age in Nigeria. The approach allows for response variables of different family of distribution to be jointly considered while accounting for metrical covariates as possible nonlinear effects and categorical variables as linear effects. Parameter estimation was through the integrated nested Laplace approximation. Our findings show similar spatial patterns of co-morbidity between malaria and severe anaemia and malaria and moderate anaemia but in the case of age of the child, the likelihoods of co-morbidity are similar for malaria and severe anaemia and malaria and mild anaemia. Urban residency, mother's education, and household wealth index are consistently significant to the different forms of co-morbidity. Findings from the spatial effects avail decision-makers with location-specific evidence to prioritize and roll out interventions in a more judicious manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Dogs are of immense social, psychological and economic importance in Nigeria and are severely affected by African trypanosomosis. However, the prevalence of canine African trypanosomosis (CAT) in Nigeria is underreported and the identification of the parasites relies mostly on basic morphological characteristics under the microscope, which could be misleading. The present study was carried out to determine the prevalence and characterize trypanosomes isolated from dogs in South east Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out to determine the prevalence and molecular identification of trypanosomes in dogs in Enugu North Senatorial Zone (ENSZ), South east Nigeria. Dogs (n = 450) were randomly sampled, their blood collected and some characteristics such as sex, breed, sampling location, season and age duly noted. The blood samples were screened for trypanosomosis using standard trypanosome detection techniques. Trypanosome-positive blood samples were spotted on FTA® cards for molecular identification using nested Tubulin-PCR, ITS-PCR, TgsGP-PCR, and DNA sequencing. Some hematological parameters of the dogs such as packed cell volume (PCV), total leucocyte count (TLC), red blood cell count (RBC) were also determined. Results: Of the 450 dogs sampled, 51 dogs were positive for trypanosomes with a prevalence rate of 11.3% (95% CI = 0.087–0.146). Trypanosoma brucei was the predominant trypanosome species infecting dogs in the study area. T. congolense, T. evansi, and T. vivax were also identified. The prevalence of canine trypanosomosis was significantly associated with season (χ2 = 13.821, df = 1, P = 0.0001) and the sampling location (χ2 = 6.900, df = 2, P = 0.032) while sex, breed, and age were not. The PCV and RBC of the infected dogs were significantly lower (p < 0.0001) than those of the uninfected dogs. Conclusions: CAT due to T. brucei is very prevalent in Enugu North Senatorial Zone, South east Nigeria and is associated with hematological changes. Our study also detected T. vivax in dogs in South east Nigeria which appears to be the first report of T. vivax in a dog in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary red blood cell disorder of public health importance globally with Nigeria the epicenter zone in Africa. There is a paucity of knowledge on how hemoglobin variants, personal characteristics, and environment (socio-demographic triangle) interact to influence SCD propagation. A clinical overview of these epidemiologic parameters may proffer strategies for controlling the SCD disease burden. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence patterns of SCD, including other associated epidemiologic and hematological (i.e., hemoglobin concentration, ABO blood groups) parameters from laboratory data. Methods: this was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 138 newly diagnosed SCD patients in the laboratory unit of the department of haematology using routine alkaline cellulose acetate hemoglobin electrophoresis technique from 2013 to 2014. Demographic and other relevant data were obtained from case notes and laboratory records at the presentation. The agent-host-environment variables were used in the construction of the epidemiological triad chain of transmission. Results: a total of 138 (1.63%) newly diagnosed SCD patients aged 7 months to 41 years made up of 39% (0.63% SCD prevalence) adults and 61% (1% SCD prevalence) pediatric age-groups were seen out of 8457 consecutive patients screened within the study period. About 98.55% and 1.45% were homozygous sickle-hemoglobin (SS) and heterozygous sickle-hemoglobin C (SC) variants, respectively. The pediatric department (CHER+CHOP) recorded the highest proportion of SCD (65%). In contrast, the public health department had the least proportion (1%). There was a statistically significant difference in the gender status and the months of SCD diagnosis (p=0.0147). The month of April had the highest proportion of SCD. A majority (66.7%) of the SCD had moderate grade anemia. Conclusion: the study revealed a gender disparity in the months of SCD diagnosis. However, there was no statistical difference in the pediatric and adult SCD prevalence patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sickle cell anaemia affects about 4 million people across the globe, making it an inherited disorder of public health importance. Red cell lysis consequent upon haemoglobin crystallization and repeated sickling leads to anaemia and a baseline strain on haemopoiesis. Vaso-occlusion and haemolysis underlies majority of the chronic complications of sickle cell. We evaluated the clinical and laboratory features observed across the various clinical phenotypes in adult sickle cell disease patients. Steady state data collected prospectively in a cohort of adult sickle cell disease patients as out-patients between July 2010 and July 2020. The information included epidemiological, clinical and laboratory data. About 270 patients were captured in this study (165 males and 105 females). Their ages ranged from 16 to 55 years, with a median age of 25 years. Sixty-eight had leg ulcers, 43 of the males had priapism (erectile dysfunction in 8), 42 had AVN, 31 had nephropathy, 23 had osteomyelitis, 15 had osteoarthritis, 12 had cholelithiasis, 10 had stroke or other neurological impairment, 5 had pulmonary hypertension, while 23 had other complications. Frequency of crisis ranged from 0 to >10/year median of 2. Of the 219 recorded, 148 of the patients had been transfused in the past, while 71 had not. The prevalence of SLU, AVN, priapism, nephropathy and the other complications of SCD show some variations from other studies. This variation in the clinical parameters across different clinical phenotypes indicates an interplay between age, genetic and environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the therapeutic potential of root extracts of Psidium guajava—a medicinal plant used by the indigenous people of Nigeria to treat hepatitis and other health conditions. Thirty male rats were divided into six groups of five rats. Group 1 received 20 mL/kg body weight of distilled water (normal control). Group 2 was induced with 100 mg/kg body weight of castor oil (positive control); group 3 was induced with 100 mg/kg of castor oil and treated with silymarin (standard control). Groups 4, 5, and 6 were induced with castor oil each and treated with 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg body weight root extracts of Psidium guajava respectively. Administration of the guava extract was done once daily for 28 days, after which tissue sampling was done. Hematological assessment and biochemical and oxidative stress parameters were determined after treatment. The result showed that packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin, and red blood cells in experimental rats induced with castor oil (group 2) decreased significantly compared to the normal control (group 1). Administration of plant extracts was able to significantly increase the antioxidant stress activities and hematological parameters compared to the untreated castor oil–induced group, except for PCV at 200 mg/kg dose. Administration of plant extract did not produce a significant effect on alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphate (ALP). Psidium guajava root extracts have potent hepatoprotective action against castor oil–induced damages in rats and may be useful in ethno-medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Human Parvovirus B19 (B19 V) infection is hyperendemic in Nigeria. Pregnant women are not classically immunocompromised but maybe physiologically immunosuppressed and susceptible to viral infection. However, there is a paucity of studies on the epidemiology of B19V in Jigawa State, Northwestern Nigeria. This study aims to determine the seroprevalence, sociodemographic, and risk factors of human B19V infection among present women attending antenatal clinics of Jahun General Hospital, Nigeria. Between 2 February and 30 June 2019, blood samples were collected from 200 consented pregnant women and analyzed for anti-B19V IgM and IgG using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Sociodemographic and risk factors of subjects were collated through pre-tested structured questionnaires. Data generated were statistically analyzed for the association of anti-B19V and subjects' variables studied. Overall, the seroprevalence of anti-B19V IgM and IgG among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics of Jahun General Hospital, Nigeria was 6.0% and 22.5%, respectively. There was no significant association between the seroprevalence of anti-B19V IgM and anti-B19V IgG with all the sociodemographic variables and risk factors of pregnant women (P ˃0.05). However, pregnant women with a history of blood transfusion had a significant risk associated with seroprevalence of B19V IgM (OR = 5.95; 95% CI: 1.96–22.76; P =.009). Findings from this study revealed that a high proportion of the pregnant women were susceptible to B19V infection and anti-B19V IgG immunity decreased with age. Given the incidence of acute B19V infection, it is clinically important to continuously monitor their erythrocytes indices and screen their neonates for B19V infection and fetal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Plant-mediated synthesis [silver (Ag) to form Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs)] is becoming progressively well accepted in many scientific and pharmaceutical fields. The aim of this study was to synthesize AgNPs using air-dried leaves of four neglected vegetables, i.e. Ceratotheca sesamoides, Ceiba pentandra, Crassocephalum crepidioides, and Launaea taraxacifolia. Materials and Methods: Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for characterization. Cell stabilization membrane and lipoxidase assays were used to determine used to assess the antiinflammatory activities while 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS+) assays were used to assess the antioxidant activities of AgNPs [L. taraxacifolia-AgNPs, C. sesamoides Ag nanoparticles (CS-AgNPs), C. pentandra Ag nanoparticles (CP-AgNPs), and C. crepidioides AgNPs (CC-AgNPs)]. Results: The UV-Vis spectra of the synthesized NPs displayed absorption bands at around 360-440 nm, which is a characteristic band for AgNPs. The SEM image showed that the AgNPs formed were spherical in morphology. CC-AgNPs exhibited the most significant inhibitory activity against human red blood cell membrane stabilizasyonu [median inhibitory concentration (IC50): 32.2 μg/mL] while CS-AgNPs displayed the most significant inhibitory activity against lipoxygenases (IC50: 32.8 μg/mL). CP-AgNPs exhibited the most significant antioxidant effect against both ABTS and DPPH (IC50: 5.5 and 6.4 μg/mL) when compared to ascorbic acid (IC50: 4.7 μg/mL). Conclusion: The synthesized AgNPs were found to be stable and the FTIR evidence suggested that the phytochemicals in the vegetables might have played an important role in the reduction and stabilization of AgNPs. This work showed that the synthesized AgNPs from non-cultivated vegetables can find relevance and application in health, drugs, food and environmental science. The evidences herein further confirmed their ethnopharmacological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schumanniophyton magnificum Harms (Rubiaceae) is used traditionally in Nigeria for the treatment of snake bites. Snake venom contains phospholipase A2 (PLA2) which plays a key role in causing inflammation and pain. To assess the anti-inflammatory effect of the methanol extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum (MESM) leaves through the inhibition of PLA2 and investigate the compounds responsible for the effect. PLA2-inhibitory activity of MESM was assessed at concentrations of 0.1–0.8 mg/mL using human red blood cells as substrate. Prednisolone was used as the standard control. MESM was subsequently partitioned using n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and aqueous-methanol (90:10 v/v), after which PLA2-inhibitory activity of the partitions was determined. The best partition was subjected to chromatographic techniques and the fractions obtained were assessed for PLA2 inhibition at 0.4 mg/mL. Compounds in the most active fraction were determined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). MESM significantly inhibited PLA2 activity at 0.8 mg/mL (44.253%) compared to prednisolone (35.207%). n-Hexane partition (SMP1) proved more active with inhibition of 55.870% observed at 0.1 mg/mL. Fraction 1 (SMF1) showed the highest PLA2-inhibitory activity of 58.117%. FTIR studies revealed the presence of some functional groups in SMF1, and GC-MS confirmed the presence of 9 compounds which are first reported in this plant. Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester was identified as the major compound (24.906%). The PLA2-inhibitory activity of MESM suggests that its compounds may be explored further in monitoring anti-inflammatory genes affected by the venoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Malaria morbidity and mortality rates are worsening, despite the dedicated commitment to eradicate the infestation, principally because of failing chemotherapy, the mainstay of treatment, and lack of registered vaccine. Therefore, the search for more potent antimalarial agents has become urgent and imperative. Hence, in this study, the cytotoxicity and antiplasmodial activity of the ethanolic leaf extracts and alkaloid fractions of eight 8African medicinal plants used in Nigerian traditional medicine were evaluated using standard methods and documented procedures. Materials and Methods: In vitro antiplasmodial activity was assessed using 3D7 chloroquinesensitive strain of Plasmodium falciparum maintained at 5% hematocrit (human type O-positive red blood cells) in complete RPMI 1640 medium, while cytotoxicity was determined by the microassay technique using L929 animal cell fibroblasts by the lactate dehydrogenase method. Results: Results indicate that the ethanolic leaf extracts of six out of the eight plants (Tridax procumbens, Ipomoea purpurea, Sida acuta, Senna alata, Phyllanthus amarus, Azadirachta indica, Nauclea latifolia, and Polyalthia longifolia) studied were non-toxic (CC50 range: 33.88-954.99 μg/ml; and Chloroquine, CQ: 79.43μg/ml), but T. procumbens and S. acuta showed mild toxicity (CC50=23.99μg/ml for each plants) as judged by the standard reference (CC50: 30μg/ml= non-toxic). However, all leaf extracts of the eight plants demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) growth inhibition of P. falciparum (IC50 range: 0.05-0.28μg/ml, CQ: 0.03 μg/ml, standard reference: ≤5 μg/ml=highly active) with very highly rated selectivity index, (SI), values (range: 343-3990, CQ: 2648, reference: >10=selectable). In addition, the alkaloid fractions of the eight plants showed no toxicity (CC50:44.67-954.99 μg/ml) and had very active antiplasmodial activity (IC50: 0.23-2.04μg/ml) with great SI figures (22-2942). Alkaloids from P. amarus, A. indica, N. latifolia, and P. longifolia were particularly reputable (SI=2942, 1361, 2081, and 1516, respectively) for selection. Conclusion: This in vitro study confirms the antiplasmodial activity of these plants and justifies their use in the Nigerian tradomedicine, but further identified the alkaloid constituent as the medicinal phytochemical responsible for the observed antiplasmodial activity. Alkaloids from especially the four notable plants with high SI should, therefore, be characterized with the hope of discovering novel agent(s) against malaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: HIV-infected persons are at markedly increased risk for primary or reactivation tuberculosis. Tuberculosis complicates HIV infection and is associated with a more rapid clinical decline, changes in haematological parameters, and as the infection progresses these changes become more prominent. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the haematological parameters (prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin with kaolin, platelet count and full blood count) among patients living with HIV, co-infected with TB Method: One hundred and sixteen subjects were recruited and divided into 3 age groups of 21-30 years, 31-40 years and 41-50 years, they were further divided based on settlement, religion, sex, occupation and educational status. Haematological parameters were assayed using the automated KX-21, SYSMEX. Standard procedures were used to assay for prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time with kaolin (PTTK) studies. Results and Discussion: The platelet count was not statistically significant when comparing the test subjects to control subjects (p=0.142). Prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time with Kaolin (PTTK) of test group were significantly prolonged than that of the control group (P<0.05). Total white blood cell count (TWBC), CD4 cell count, lymphocyte count and monocyte count were signficantly reduced when comparing the test group to control group (P<0.05). Red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration, and packed cell volume (PCV) also showed a significant reduction (P<0.05). MCV (P<0.05) and MCHC (p=0.027) were observed to be statistically higher in urban settlers. There was a significant increase in the PTTK, MCHC and neutrophil count among females when compared with males (p<0.05). Whereas platelet count, CD4 cell count, MCH, PCV, Hb concentration, RBC count, MCV, lymphocyte count, monocyte count and eosinophil were all significantly raised in male subjects (P<0.05). There was a significant increase in the Total WBC in males than in females (P=0.047). This study also observed a correlation between platelet count, TWBC and CD4 cell count. Subjects that are of the ages of 31-40 years group had the highest prevalence rate of HIV-TB co-infection. Subjects in the rural areas also had a higher prevalence rate of HIVTB coinfection. PT and PTTK were prolonged in TB and HIV co-infected subjects. Conclusion: Therefore CD4, TWBC, PT and PTTK, can be used to monitor how HIV co-infected with TB subjects are responding to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Despite public health significance of dual infections of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and malaria in developing countries like Nigeria, information on the association between malaria parasite density count (MPDC) and hematological parameter changes among HIV-infected individuals is rarely available. Objectives. To evaluate burden of HIV and malaria dual infections and assess the predictive association of MPDC with hematological parameter changes among HIV infected adults attending two antiretroviral treatment clinics in Kano, Nigeria. Methodology. This was a cross-sectional study consisting of 1521 consented participants randomly selected between June 2015 and May 2016. Participants' basic characteristics and clinical details were collected using a pretested and validated standardized questionnaire. Collected venous blood was analyzed for malaria by rapid testing and microscopy including malaria parasite density; hematological parameters were estimated using a Sysmex XP-300 autoanalyzer. Data was reviewed, cleaned, and analyzed using SPSS software version 23.0. Mean hematological parameters and HIV/malaria status were compared using the independent t-test; hematological parameters and MPDC relationship was tested by simple linear regression analysis. Statistically significant difference at probability of <0.05 was considered for all variables. Results. The majority (70.6%) of the participants were females. Mean (SD) age was 37.30 ± (10.41) years and ranged from 18 to 78 years. 25.4% of participants had dual infection, 99% due to Plasmodium falciparum species. Mean MPDC was 265 ± 31.8 (SD) cells/μl and ranged from 20 to 2500 cells/μl. Dual infection was highest (37.5%) among respondents in the age group ≥60 years. Prevalence was similar among other age groups (p = 0.165) and gender (p = 0.942). Of the 16 hematological parameters evaluated, 11 showed significant difference between HIV mono-infected and dual infected participants. Of the 11 parameters, only 7 (Hb, MCHC, red cells count, neutrophil and lymphocyte percentage, absolute lymphocyte count, and red cell distribution width) were significantly predictive of changes with respect to MPDC. Conclusions. MPDC was significantly predictive of changes in 7 hematological parameters among dual infected participants in these settings. In routine malaria diagnosis, MPDC determination with respect to changes in some hematological parameters should be considered in ART programs for improved patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To augment orthodox anti-inflammatory drugs, which are scarce in some areas, local dwellers in some parts of Nigeria and Asia rely on herbal products such as Combretum zenkeri Engl. & Diels leaves for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Aim: This study investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of crude ethanol extract of C. zenkeri leaves (EECZ). Materials and methods: EECZ was prepared and subjected to anti-inflammatory activity tests. The ability of EECZ to inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators in rats was used as a measure of its anti-inflammatory property. The inhibitory effects of EECZ on phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity, platelet aggregation and haemolysis of human red blood cells (HRBCs) were determined using standard methods. The phytochemical constituents and acute toxicity profile were also evaluated. Results: EECZ at oral doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg b.w. and at 6 h inhibited egg albumin-induced rat paw oedema by 67.36% and 86.19% respectively. The extract similarly inhibited PLA2 activity causing 58.23% and 60.24% inhibition at concentrations of 400 and 800 μg/ml, respectively. At 100–800 μg/ml, EECZ also significantly inhibited haemolysis of HRBCs. In a concentration-dependent manner, EECZ significantly inhibited CaCl2-induced platelet aggregation. The presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, phenol, saponins, steroids, tannins and glycosides were detected in EECZ. The acute toxicity test showed that EECZ is safe at doses less than 5,000 mg/kg b.w. Conclusion: This study shows that EECZ possess anti-inflammatory activities that could be through the inhibition of PLA2 activity and platelet aggregation, and membrane stabilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propofol is a unique non-barbiturate, non-steroid, short-acting general intravenous anaesthetic agent associated with rapid and smooth induction and rapid recovery. Earlier studies have indicated the adverse effect of propofol anesthesia on hematological parameters, contributing to immune suppression in dog. Propofol has also been reported to cause depression of respiratory function due to reduction of sensitivity of respiratory centre to carbon dioxide and tissue oxygen uptake in goat. The high cost of anesthetic agents, especially general or intravenous anesthetics, lack of technical know-how of endotracheal intubation and paucity of suitable anesthetic agents limits the ability of the surgeon to perform invasive surgery successfully in goats. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of propofol anesthesia on the hematological and cardiopulmonary parameters in Red Sokoto goats of Nigeria for possible adoption in routine invasive surgical procedures in small ruminants due to non-availability of information on this aspect. Five apparently healthy female Red Sokoto goats weighing between 17-25 kg were used for the study. Propofol was used for induction of anesthesia with 4mg/kg body weight for 10 seconds and maintained at 0.4 mgkg-1min-1 by continuous infusion for 60 minutes. Hematological and cardiopulmonary parameters were recorded before anesthetization (T0) and subsequently at 5 (T5), 10 (T10), 15 (T15), 30 (T30), 45 (T45), and 60 (T60) minutes after anesthetization, and 1 hour post recovery (T120). The mean onset of propofol anaesthesia was found to be 20.6 ± 2.6 seconds. All the animals showed prolapsed third eyelid, whereas the tail, palpebral, deglutition and auricular reflexes were abolished. The goats showed no outward signs of excitement. Endotracheal intubation was difficult. Onset of action was rapid, so also the time of recovery. Hematological parameters in the study included Haematocrit (PCV%) value, Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count, Hemoglobin concentration (Hgb), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC),and White Blood Cell (WBC) Count. Cardiopulmonary parameters included rectal temperature, respiration rate, pulse rate, mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and oxygen saturation level (SpO2). The result of the present study did not reveal significant (P>0.05) alteration in hematological indices and cardiopulmonary parameters before anesthetization (T0), during anesthesia (T5-T60) and after recovery from anesthesia (T120). It is concluded that induction of propofol anesthesia at 4mg/kg body weight and maintenance at 0.4mg/kg/minute for surgical interventions in Red Sokoto goats triggered rapid onset and smooth perpetuation without detrimental hematological and cardiopulmonary consequences during anesthetization and post-recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haematological studies help in understanding the relationship of blood characteristics to the environment. One of the major environmental factors influencing haematological indicators is season. This study was aimed at the variation in haematological profiles of two strains of laying birds at different seasons. We therefore evaluated the effects of genotype and season on the haematological profile in two strains of laying birds – Dominant brown (D-192) and Hyline brown in the tropics. A total of 50 birds per strain at 30 weeks of age were randomly selected for this study. Packed cell volume (PCV) and platelets were obtained using microhaematocrit whereas red blood cells (RBC) and white blood cells (WBC) were counted using a haemocytometer. The result obtained showed that there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in the haematological profile of the birds in the two seasons compared (rainy and dry seasons). The haematological indices obtained during the rainy season had significantly higher mean values in packed cell volume (29.65 ± 0.32%), red blood cells (2.65 ± 0.03 × 1012/L), haemoglobin (100.1 ± 0.11 g/L) and eosinophil (2.5 ± 0.16%) while those obtained during the dry season had a higher significant effect on the white blood cells (19.16 ± 0.36 × 109/L). The results further revealed that between the strains, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in most of the indicators analysed but Hyline brown had significantly higher values (P < 0.05) of eosinophils and platelets. We concluded that the observed differences could be a result of genetic differences between the two strains of birds which gives room for selection and that the rainy season is more favourable for laying birds production under tropical condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has been recognised as an important cause of acute viral hepatitis of zoonotic importance globally. This study evaluated the haematological, serum biochemical and histopathological changes in HEV seropositive pigs. A total of 120 pigs were sourced from the Bodija Municipal abattoir, Ibadan, Nigeria, for this study. The haematology and serum biochemistry of the sampled pigs seropositive to HEV antibodies using the ID Screen® Hepatitis E Indirect Multi-species ELISA biwell kit were analysed. Liver and spleen samples were also taken for histopathological examination and lesion scoring. HEV seropositivity was reported in 57.5% (69/120) of the pigs and associated with a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in erythrocyte parameters with a tendency to a non-regenerative anaemia. A significant moderate thrombocytopenia (1.81 ± 0.82 × 105/μL) was also observed in the HEV seropositive group. There was a significant elevation in the level of serum hepatocellular leakage enzymes (aspartate transaminase and sorbitol dehydrogenase), albumin and total bilirubin level in the seropositive group. A semiquantitative analysis of the lesion score also revealed a significantly higher frequency and severity of hepatic lesions (including hepatocellular vacuolation, necrosis, lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, Kupffer cell hyperplasia and fibrosis) in the seropositive group. This study underscores the need for further HEV studies in Nigeria as an important tentative aetiology in porcine hepatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy is the fertilization and development of one or more offspring, known as an embryo or foetus in a woman's uterus. Pregnancy is a critical stage of development during which maternal nutrition can strongly influence obstetric and neonatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of pregnancy on the full blood count parameters of pregnant women of African descent residing in Sokoto, North Western Nigeria. This case-control study investigated 74 pregnant subjects and 22 non-pregnant controls. The mean age and income of the subjects were 28.00 ± 8.295 and 2760.42 ± 7975.178 respectively. Haematological parameters were determined using a fully automated 5-part differential haematology analyzer (Model Mythic 22-CT, Orpheee, Switzerland). Results obtained of pregnant subjects were compared with that of non-pregnant controls. The prevalence of anaemia (Hb < 11 g/dl) and thrombocytopenia (Platelet count < 140 × 10 9 /L) was 58.11% and 6.75% respectively among the pregnant subjects. The mean haemoglobin, PCV, platelet and red cell count were significantly lower among the pregnant subjects (10.7 ± 0.13 g/dl and 31.4 ± 0.38%, 252.7 ± 14.35 × 10 9 /L and 3.7 ± 0.04) compared to the non-pregnant controls (12.2 ± 0.44 g/dl, 36.2 ± 1.17 %, 362.7 ± 36.51 × 10 9 /L and 4.3 ± 0.11) (p = 0.004, 0.001, 0.009 and 0.000) respectively. There were no significant differences in the total white blood cell count between the pregnant subjects (5.3 ± 0.22) and non-pregnant controls (4.6 ± 0.59) (p = 0.267). The Neutrophils count was significantly higher among the pregnant subjects (42.6 ± 3.06) compared to the non-pregnant controls (20.0 ± 2.33) (p = 0.000). This study has shown that pregnancy has a significant effect on some haematological parameters of women of African descent. The results of this research work indicates the need to routinely monitor the full blood count, anaemia and thrombocytopenia among pregnant women of African descent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined the hypoglycaemic effect of Vernonia amygdalina aqueous leaf extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats, as well as its effect on their biochemical and haematological biochemical parameters. Vernonia amygdalina (VA) is a flowering plant and a member of the Asteraceae family with over 200 species. It is a small shrub that grows in tropical Africa. It is commonly called bitter leaf in English because of its bitter taste and is used in Nigeria as both food and medicine. Adult albino rats (36) of both sexes were divided into six groups (1-6). Three fractions (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of aqueous leaf extract of VA were obtained and administered to a control group (normal rats) and alloxan induced diabetic rats to check for their hypoglycaemic effects during an experimental period of seven (7) days. The fasting blood sugar levels (FBS) and body weights were monitored using a glucometer and weighing balance, respectively, every 48 hrs. At the end of the 7 days observation, the rats were scarified and the blood was collected for biochemical and haematological analysis. The results showed that the 400 mg/kg body weight dose was most potent as it reduced the fasting blood sugar levels from average of 494.83 mg/dl (2 days after induction) to 81 mg/dl on the 7th day of the experiment. During the same period, the 200 mg/kg body weight dose also reduced the FBS level from 382.33 mg/dl to 98 mg/dl. Also, the 100 mg/kg body weight dose reduced the FBS level after 7 days to 110 mg/dl. The average body weight of the rats decreased from 250.83 g initial weight to 215 g final weight (i.e. 14.28% reduction) compared to the group administered with 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract that reduced from 234.17 g to 206.67 g (11.73% reduction). These doses of the extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) were found to normalize some biochemical parameters such as creatinine, total bilirubin (TB) and high density lipoprotein (HDL). Same doses of the extract were shown to normalize certain haematological parameters such as Red Blood Cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (HGB) and Haematocrit (HCT). However, the effects on the two parameters were more marked with the 400 mg/kg dose. From the above results, Vernonia amygdalina aqueous leaf extract has been found to possess a potent hypoglycaemic activity with significant effects on biochemical and haematological indices of the experimental animals. The results show that this herbal extract which is safe and capables of normalizing biochemical and haematological abnormalities associated with the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus, can be formulated into acceptable pharmaceutical dosage forms that can be employed in the management of diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, the hematological and antioxidant potential as well as the osmotic fragility effects of a Nigerian polyherbal formulation were evaluated. Materials and methods: A total of 40 fats were divided into four groups of 10 rats each. Group 1 served as the control group, and the rest were assigned increasing daily oral administration of the extract for 28 days. At the end of treatment, blood was collected for hematological and osmotic fragility studies. The free radical scavenging effect of the extract was investigated via different in vitro models as well. Results: Results showed that the nitric oxide scavenging and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activities of the extract were significant (p < 0.05) and compared favorably with that of vitamin C. At 200 and 400 μg/mL, the nitric oxide scavenging activities for Ajumbise Polyherbal Extract (APE) were 60.71 ± 0.25% and 59.49 ± 0.98%, respectively, whereas for the same concentrations of vitamin C, 74.60 ± 0.25% and 85.24 ± 0.14 scavenging activities were obtained. The (DPPH) activity at 100 μg/mL was 81.24 ± 0.02% for the extract and 96.22 ± 0.18% for vitamin C. However, at all concentrations, the extract had significantly lower Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) activity than vitamin C. Red blood cell counts (RBCC), hemoglobin and packed cell volume values (PCV) were significantly lowered only in groups treated with 400 and 800 mg/kg of the extract (p < 0.05), whereas other RBCC parameters and white blood cell counts (WBCC) were not significantly affected (p < 0.05). Platelet (PLT) count was also significantly lowered in all extract-treated groups. The extract also significantly reduced RBCC percentage hemolysis (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Ajumbise polyherbal may be free of hematoxicity and may improve the integrity of the RBC membrane due to its appreciable antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence and hematological parameters of Fasciola gigantica-infected cattle in Nsukka, Southeastern Nigeria, was carried out between March and May, 2008. Blood samples were collected immediately after slaughter into labeled sample bottles containing EDTA. Characteristics of each slaughtered cattle such as sex and breed were noted. Postmortem examination of the liver, bile ducts, and gall bladder were carried out. Standard techniques were used to determine the packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), and hemoglobin concentration (HbC) while mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were calculated appropriately using standard formulae. A total of 200 cattle were examined at postmortem with 23.5% prevalence (95% CI = 0.181–0.299). Fifteen percent (95% CI = 0.107–0.206) of the infected cattle were males while 8.5% (95% CI = 0.054–0.132) were females. White Fulani, Sokoto Gudali, and Red Bororo breeds recorded 20.5% (95% CI = 0.155–0.266), 3% (95% CI = 0.014–0.064), and 0% (95% CI = 0.000–0.019) prevalence respectively. However, no significant association (P ˃ 0.05) exists between Fasciola infections and the breed and sex of sampled animals. The mean PCV, HbC, RBC, and WBC values of the infected cattle were significantly low (P < 0.05) when compared to the uninfected cattle. Public enlightenment on the zoonotic importance of Fasciola gigantica and periodic anthelmintic intervention is hereby recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live bird markets (LBMs) contain pool of various birds of different breeds, species, types, and ages, and from different sources and have been identified as impending cores of diseases' incubation and transmission. From the point of food safety concern, it is highly empirical to document the health status and possible disease invasion in such markets to control the market for disease-free chicken so as to ensure supply of safe food for the consumers. One hundred twenty birds comprising of exotic and indigenous breeds of cockerels and layers were surveyed in three LBMs within Abeokuta Metropolis, Ogun State, Nigeria, using a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of breed, types of chickens, and market. Data were collected on pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (RR), body temperature (BT) for vital signs; packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb), and red blood cell (RBC) for hematological indices; and basophil, eosinophil, neutrophil, lymphocytes, and heterophil-lymphocytes (H:L) ratio for white blood cell differentials (WBCD) and analyzed using ANOVA. Indigenous chickens and cockerels recorded highest (p < 0.05) PR (224.5 bpm and 224.63 bpm, respectively). Market had significant (p < 0.05) influence on RR and BT of the chickens. Chicken types had no significant (p > 0.05) influence on PCV, RBC, and Hb while breed influenced (p < 0.05) the RBC. Market had significant influence on all the hematological parameters. Breed and chicken types significantly (p < 0.05) influenced white blood cell differentials. Indigenous breed of chickens had the highest (p < 0.05) eosinophil (1.67%), neutrophil (35.83%), lymphocyte (58.00%), monocyte (4.5%), and H:L (0.71), while cockerels recorded highest (p < 0.05) of 1.5%, 38.23%, 56.13%, 4.13%, and 0.77%, respectively, for these parameters. The study concluded that breed and types of chickens had significant influence on vital signs. Also, market had influence on RR, BT, hematology, neutrophil, and H:L ratio of the birds sold at LBMs. Therefore, markets should be controlled for the right breed and type of chickens for the supply and consumption of healthy chicken and chicken products (meat and egg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The overall burden of morbidity and mortality from psychiatric disorders is on the rise. Holistic approach in the care of this group of patients has become inevitable. There is need for collaboration between psychiatrists and other physicians, laboratory physicians inclusive. Study design: cross sectional descriptive case-control study. Materials and method: A total of 198 patients including controls were recruited for this study. Patients with schizophrenia constituted majority of the respondents, 86.4% of antipsychotic-naïve patients and 90.9% of patients on antipsychotics. A comprehensive medical examination was carried out on every participant. On every sample, automated Full Blood Count was performed using Sysmex2000i and peripheral blood film was made and examined. Result: 51.5% and 47% of anti-psychotropicnaïve patients and patients on anti-psychotic were 18-40 and 41-60 years respectively. Male (57.6%), predominated the anti-psychotic naïve group while female (51.5%) predominated the group on anti-psychotics. Schizophrenia was the diagnosis in the majority of patients, 86.4% and 91% respectively in anti-psychotic naïve and antipsychotic treatment groups. Other diagnoses were depressive illness, substance use disorder and dementia. Of all the subjects, one (1.5%) schizophrenic patients and two (3%) of controls had abnormal haemogram results. For the schizophrenic patient with abnormal results, haematocrit was 12g/dl, MCV of 75fl and MCH of 26pg, while the two controls with abnormal results had only haematocrit deranged with value of 12.3g/d. Neutrophil hypersegmentation was seen on the film of five antipsychotic-naïve patients (7.5%) diagnosed with Schizophrenia and one (1.5%) of the controls. Macrocytosis was only seen in three (4.5%) of the five antipsychotic-naïve patients that had neutrophil hypersegmentation. Conclusion: No significant difference was noted in the Full Blood Counts among the two sets of patients and controls, although there were isolated cases of neutrohil hyperesegmentation and macrocytosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to collect blood samples using the lateral caudal vein and to determine the haematological parameters of monitor lizard. Apparently, healthy monitor lizard was used for the purpose of this study. Blood sample was collected into sterile sample bottle containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as anticoagulant over a period of 15 days at 3-day intervals. The lizard was screened for haemoparasites. Microhaematocrit and thin blood smear techniques were used for the haematological analyses. Haemoglobin concentration (Hb) was determined using the cyanmethaemoglobin method. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were calculated. There was no statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in the packed cell volume (PCV), total red blood cells (RBC) and total white blood cells (WBC) counts which recorded values of 25.17 ± 2.44%, 3.9 ± 0.09 × 1012/l, and 9.57 ± 1.68 × 109/l respectively. No statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was recorded for MCV, MCH, and MCHC with mean values of 64.48 ± 5.68 fl, 21.48 ± 1.90 pg and 33.30 ± 0.03 g/dl respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the haematological parameters of monitor lizard in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of pycnogenol® (PYC) on erythrocyte stability of donkeys subjected to packing during the late hot-dry season. Ten donkeys, divided into two groups, served as experimental subjects. P-PYC group (n = 5) was subjected to packing only, while P+PYC group (n = 5) was administered with PYC (10 mg/kg) and subjected to packing. Erythrocytes obtained from each animal in the experimental groups were added into saline solution of different concentrations (0.9, 0.6, 0.4. 0.2, and 0.0 g/100 ml). Erythrocyte osmotic fragility index (EOFI) was evaluated spectrophotometrically. The concentration of isoprostane was also determined. The mean EOFI was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in P-PYC group 3 and 7 days after packing at 0.6 g/100 ml, with values of 32.4 ± 3.2 and 53.4 ± 4.3%, respectively. However, there was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in the MCF recorded in both groups, before, after, 3, and 7 days after packing. Percentage erythrocyte stability was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in P+PYC group, especially during, and 7 days after packing with values of 24.3 ± 9.2 and − 23.3 ± 22.8%, respectively when compared with the values of 8.6 ± 3.3 and − 79.7 ± 9.3% obtained in P-PYC group, respectively. Mean isoprostane concentration was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in P-PYC group when compared with the value in P+PYC group, 7 days after packing. In conclusion, environmental and packing stresses decreased stability of the erythrocytes in donkeys; however, PYC may have played an ameliorative role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haemoparasitism remains persisting as the major challenge to animal health and production causing the destruction of red blood cells resulting in anaemia, jaundice, anorexia, emaciation, reduced productivity, infertility and even death. This study was conducted to investigate and provide information on the diversity of haemoparasites species affecting animals in Plateau State, North-central Nigeria. Blood samples collected from 1,298 apparently healthy animals (501 cattle; 252 sheep; 393 goats; 129 dogs and 23 horses) were parasitologically screened for the presence of haemoparasites. Babesia bigemina, Babesia bovis, Trypanosoma vivax, Anaplasma marginale, Theileria mutans and Theileria velifera were detected in cattle, with Babesia bigemina (75/501 (14.97%%); 95% CI: 12.05 - 18.30) and Anaplasma marginale (27/501 (5.39%); 95% CI: 3.66 - 7.64) been the most prevalent. Anaplasma ovis was detected in both sheep and goats, although Babesia ovis and Babesia motasi were the most prevalent blood parasites affecting sheep and goats respectively. Two species were detected each in dogs and horses with Babesia canis and Theileria equi been more prevent in dogs and horses respectively. The result of this study shows that a variety of haemoparasites species are found to infect domestic animals in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. Considering the importance of domestic animals to national economy and the devastating effect of these haemoparasites, there is need for a radical approach in terms of appropriate and routine prophylactic treatments of animals, and regular vector (ticks and biting flies) control using efficacious acaricides and fly traps to arrest the menace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute and chronic environmental lead exposures are associated with alteration of hematological parameters. It is not known whether retained lead pellets have similar effects on hematological variables to environmental exposures. Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the effects of retained lead pellets on hematological indices in patients that sustained gunshot injuries to the craniomaxillofacial region. Patients and Methods: We examined individuals with retained pellets following gunshot injuries to the craniomaxillofacial region using a prospective cohort study design in a tertiary health center, Nigeria. Results: A total of 54 male individuals (27 in each group) enlisted in the study. The age of the patients and control subjects ranges from 20 to 58 years, with a mean age of 40.3 years. The mean blood lead levels (BLLs) of the exposed group were lower than the unexposed (P = 0.03). There were statistically significant (P < 0.05) variations in the hematological indices between the exposed and the unexposed groups. There was a significant association (P < 0.001) between the hematological indices assessed and the BLLs, number of retained pellets, and duration of retention. No basophilic stippling was observed in the red cell morphology of the individuals. Conclusion: Retained lead pellets cause significant elevated BLL and associated higher hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and mean cell volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sickle cell anaemia is a hereditary disease affecting the red blood cells as a result of acquisition of a mutant ß-globin gene, one from each parent. One of the pathophysiology of sickle cell anaemia is abnormally high concentration of methaemoglobin in the circulating red blood cells. Treatments for sickle cell anaemia are complex and expensive, Hence, cheap alternative remedies have to be identified. This study evaluated the percentage methaemoglobin concentration of sodium metabisulphite sickled erythrocytes in the presence of methanolic extract and fractions of Sterculia setigera leaf at concentrations of 0.2mg/ml, 0.4mg/ml, 0.6mg/ml, 0.8mg/ml, and 1mg/ml which showed that a significant (p<0.05) difference existed between the methanolic extract and fractions except for nhexane and butanolic fractions and the control. The results obtained from this study show the capacity of Sterculia setigera in preventing haemoglobin oxidation to form methaemoglobin, hense its usefulness in the management of sickle cell anaemia by some traditional doctors in northern Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood transfusion is an important treatment modality for severe anaemia. Monitoring post-transfusion haemoglobin (Hb) concentration helps the clinician in assessing the success of blood transfusion. Previous authors have reported different timings for post-transfusion equilibration using varied time intervals for post-transfusion Hb concentration assessment. This study was therefore aimed at determining the appropriate time to assess Hb concentration after packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion in children using 5 different time intervals. It was a longitudinal observational study carried out in a tertiary care hospital in Southeast, Nigeria and involved 108 children aged 1–10 years without active bleeding or significant haemolysis that were transfused with pRBC. The Hb concentration was measured using a portable haemoglobinometer just before the blood transfusion and after the blood transfusion at 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48th-hour. The 1-hour (6.8 ± 1.5 g/dl) post-transfusion Hb concentration was significantly different (p 0.001) from the 6th-hour (10.2 ± 1.5 g/dl), but no further significant (p > 0.05) changes occurred after the 6th-hour till the 48th-hour. This finding suggests that equilibration of Hb concentration had occurred by the 6th hour after blood transfusion. This study, therefore, recommends that Hb concentration assessment in children without ongoing bleeding or haemolysis can be done at the 6th hour after pRBC transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]