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In children exposed to poor hygiene and sanitation, invasion of the gut by pathogenic microbes can result in a subclinical enteropathy termed "environmental enteric dysfunction" (EED) that contributes to undernutrition, growth faltering, and impaired organ development. EED may already be present by age 6–12 weeks; therefore, interventions that can be started early in life, and used alongside breastfeeding, are needed to prevent or ameliorate EED. A healthy gut microbiota is critical for intestinal development and repair, nutrient digestion and absorption, and resisting colonization or overgrowth by pathogens. However, its development can be impaired by several environmental factors. Dietary supplementation with pro-, pre-, or synbiotics may be a pragmatic and safe means of building the resilience of the developing gut microbiota against adverse environmental factors, thereby preventing EED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study assessed the timeliness and completeness of disease surveillance data for early warning of the cholera outbreak during the socio-political crisis of Southwest Cameroon in 2018. It determined how routine integrated disease surveillance and response (IDSR) data was used for preventative actions and the challenges faced by key health staff in IDSR based decision-making. Methods: This was a mixed-methods study conducted from June 1st to September 30th 2021. District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) data from January 2018 to December 2020 for the Southwest region of Cameroon were analysed using simple linear regression on EPI Info 7.2 to determine a potential association of the sociopolitical crisis with timeliness and completeness of data. Qualitative data generated through in-depth interviews of key informants were coded and analyzed using NVivo 12. Results: During high conflict intensity (2018 and 2019), average data timeliness and completeness were 16.3% and 67.2%, respectively, increasing to 40.7% and 80.2%, respectively, in 2020 when the conflict intensity had reduced. There was a statistically significant weak correlation between reduced conflict intensity and increased data timeliness (R2 = 0.17, p = 0.016) and there was also a weak correlation between reduced conflict intensity and data completeness but this was not statistically significant (R2 = 0.01, p = 0.642). During high conflict intensity, the Kumba and Buea health districts had the highest data timeliness (17.2% and 96.2%, respectively) and data completeness (78.8% and 40.4%, respectively) possibly because of proximity to reporting sites and effective performance based financing. Components of IDSR that should be maintained included the electronic report aspect of the DHIS2 and the supportive supervision conducted during the outbreak. Staff demotivation, the parallel multiplicity of data entry tools, poor communication, shortage of staff and the non-usability of data generated by the DHIS2 were systemic challenges to the early alert dimension of the IDSR system. Non–systemic challenges included high levels of insecurity, far to reach outbreak sites and health personnel being targeted during the conflict. Conclusion: In general, routine IDSR data was not a reliable way of providing early warning of the 2018 cholera outbreak because of incomplete and late reports. Nonetheless, reduced conflict intensity correlated with increased timeliness and completeness of data reporting. The IDSR was substantially challenged during the crisis, and erroneous data generated by the DHIS 2 significantly undermined the efforts and resources invested to control the outbreak. The Ministry of Public Health should reinforce efforts to build a reporting system that produces people-centered actionable data that engages health risk management during socio-political crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is inconclusive evidence on the association between ambient air pollution and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) incidence, tuberculosis-related hospital admission and mortality. This review aimed to assess the extent to which selected air pollutants are associated to PTB incidence, hospital admissions and mortality. This was a systematic review of studies published in English from January 1st, 1946, through May 31st, 2022, that quantitatively assessed the association between PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, CO, O3 and the incidence of, hospital admission or death from PTB. Medline, Embase, Scopus and The Cochrane Library were searched. Extracted data from eligible studies were analysed using STATA software. Random-effect meta-analysis was used to derive pooled adjusted risk and odds ratios. A total of 24 studies (10 time-series, 5 ecologic, 5 cohort, 2 case–control, 1 case cross-over, 1 cross-sectional) mainly from Asian countries were eligible and involved a total of 437,255 tuberculosis cases. For every 10 μg/m3 increment in air pollutant concentration, there was a significant association between exposure to PM2.5 (pooled aRR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.06–1.19, p < 0.001, N = 6); PM10 (pooled aRR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.12, p = 0.022, N = 8); SO2 (pooled aRR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.04–1.12, p < 0.001, N = 9); and the incidence of PTB. There was no association between exposure to CO (pooled aRR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.98–1.11, p = 0.211, N = 4); NO2 (pooled aRR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.99–1.17, p = 0.057, N = 7); O3 (pooled aRR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.99–1.02, p = 0.910, N = 6) and the incidence of PTB. There was no association between the investigated air pollutants and mortality or hospital admissions due to PTB. Overall quality of evidence was graded as low (GRADE approach). Exposure to PM2.5, PM10 and SO2 air pollutants was found to be associated with an increased incidence of PTB, while exposure to CO, NO2 and O3 was not. There was no observed association between exposure to these air pollutants and hospital admission or mortality due to PTB. The quality of the evidence generated, however, remains low. Addressing the tuberculosis epidemic by 2030 as per the 4th Sustainable Development Goal may require a more rigorous exploration of this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Africa possesses the largest anti-retroviral therapy (ART) program in the world, but the path to this record was dramatic. There is scarce literature employing a comprehensive framework to explain this achievement and inform epidemic responses. This paper applies the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) to analyse the interactions among diverse actors, institutions and networks that were associated with the AIDS policy change in South Africa. Post-apartheid, HIV/AIDS and AIDS-related mortality were serious public health problems. At the time, the discernible coalitions in the HIV/AIDS policy subsystem were the pro-science coalition and AIDS dissidents. In view of the availability of compelling scientific evidence on the pathogenesis of HIV/AIDS, the clinical usefulness of ART, the availability of funding for national ART roll-out, strong global advocacy to reduce the cost of ART, all of these in an era when access to adequate HIV treatment/care was increasingly considered a human right, the environment to establish an appropriate HIV/AIDS policy for the country was conducive. However, AIDS dissidents dominated the policy agenda via their control over key institutions, the use of various dimensions of power, biasing evidence to inform policy, and promoting the activities of strong interest groups that were not in support of ART. National ART roll-out finally emerged as a political priority because of external shocks (on the AIDS policy subsystem) which disfavoured the dominant coalition. As in this important experience in the history of HIV treatment, stakeholders involved in epidemic response tend to engage in intense ideological conflicts. An adequate appraisal of the outcomes of these conflicts in terms of population health gains and adopted public health and social measures to control epidemics would require the supplementation of complex system thinking with relevant public policy concepts, notably power dimensions, governance, emergence of global health networks and evidence use in policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Programmes that merge management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) aim to improve HIV/TB co-infected patients' access to comprehensive treatment. However, several reports from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) indicate suboptimal uptake of antiretroviral therapy (ART) even after integration of HIV and TB treatment. This study assessed ART uptake, its barriers and enablers in programmes integrating TB and HIV treatment in SSA. Method: A systematic review was performed. Seven databases were searched for eligible quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies published from March 2004 through July 2019. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to obtain pooled estimates of ART uptake. A thematic approach was used to analyse and synthesise data on barriers and enablers. Results: Of 5139 references identified, 27 were included in the review: 23/27 estimated ART uptake and 10/27 assessed barriers to and/or enablers of ART uptake. The pooled ART uptake was 53% (95% CI: 42, 63%) and between-study heterogeneity was high (I2 = 99.71%, p < 0.001). WHO guideline on collaborative TB/HIV activities and sample size were associated with heterogeneity. There were statistically significant subgroup effects with high heterogeneity after subgroup analyses by region, guideline on collaborative TB/HIV activities, study design, and sample size. The most frequently described socioeconomic and individual level barriers to ART uptake were stigma, low income, and younger age group. The most frequently reported health system-related barriers were limited staff capacity, shortages in medical supplies, lack of infrastructure, and poor adherence to or lack of treatment guidelines. Clinical barriers included intolerance to anti-TB drugs, fear of drug toxicity, and contraindications to antiretrovirals. Health system enablers included good management of the procurement, supply, and dispensation chain; convenience and accessibility of treatment services; and strong staff capacity. Availability of psychosocial support was the most frequently reported enabler of uptake at the community level. Conclusions: In SSA, programmes integrating treatment of TB and HIV do not, in general, achieve high ART uptake but we observe a net improvement in uptake after WHO issued the 2012 guidelines on collaborative TB/HIV activities. The recurrence of specific modifiable system-level and patient-level factors in the literature reveals key intervention points to improve ART uptake in these programmes. Systematic review registration: CRD42019131933. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been growing concerns of a potential re-establishment of measles transmission in the United States (US) in the years to come. This study aims to explore potential factors underlying the resurgence of measles in the US by objectively assessing the associations between annual incidence rates (AIR), case importation, vaccination status and disease outbreaks. Data on measles transmission between January 1st, 2001 and December 31st, 2019 were obtained from the national centres for disease control and prevention (CDC) surveillance databases and other published reports. Changes in incidence rates over time were assessed by binomial regression models. Of the 3874 cases of measles in the US over the study period, 3506 (90.5%, 95% CI: 89.5–91.4) occurred in US residents. The AIR per million population in US residents over this period was 0.60 (95% CI: 0.59–0.61), with an overall significant increase over time (p = 0.011). The median percentage of imported and vaccinated cases were 36% [17.9–46.6] and 15% [12.1–23.2] respectively. There was a significant decrease in the percentage of imported cases (p < 0.001) but not of vaccinated cases (p = 0.159) over time. There was a moderate and weak negative correlation between the AIR and the percentage of imported and vaccinated cases respectively (r = –0.59 and r = –0.27 respectively). On multiple linear regression there was a significant linear association between the AIR and the number of outbreaks (p = 0.003) but not with the percentage of imported cases (p = 0.436) and vaccinated cases (p = 0.692), R2 = 0.73. Strong negative and positive correlations were seen between the number of outbreaks and the percentage of imported cases (r = –0.61) and the of number states affected (r = 0.88) respectively. Despite the overall reduction in the percentage of imported cases of measles over the past two decades, pockets of internal transmission of the disease following importation via increasing number of outbreaks in unvaccinated subpopulations, reinforced by vaccine hesitancy, account for the sustained increase in measles incidence rates in the US. Controlling indigenous transmission through efficient vaccination coverage in at-risk subpopulations and among international US travellers, improved disease surveillance and rapid outbreak containment are essential in curbing the measles resurgence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Updating the knowledge base on the causes and patterns of under-five mortality (U5M) is crucial for the design of suitable interventions to improve survival of children under five. Objectives. To assess the rate, causes, and age-specific patterns of U5M in Buea Health District, Cameroon. Methods. A retrospective cohort study involving 2000 randomly selected households was conducted. Live births registered between September 2004 and September 2009 were recorded. The under-five mortality rate (U5MR) was defined by the number of deaths that occurred on or before 5 years of age per 1000 live births. Causes of death were assigned using the InterVA-4 software. Results. A total of 2210 live births were recorded. There were 92 deaths, and the U5MR was 42 per 1000 live births. The mean age at death was 11 ± 15.9 months. The most frequent causes of death were neonatal causes (37%), malaria (28%), and pneumonia (15%). Deaths during infancy accounted for 64.1% of U5M, with 43.5% neonatal (86% occurring within the first 24 hours of life) and 20.7% postneonatal. The main causes of death in infancy were birth asphyxia (37.5%), pneumonia (17.5%), complications of prematurity (10%), and malaria (10%). Child deaths accounted for 35.8% of U5M. Malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhoeal illnesses accounted for the majority of child deaths. Conclusions. Almost half of U5M occurred during the neonatal period. Improvements in intrapartum care and the prevention and effective treatment of neonatal conditions, malaria, and pneumonia could considerably reduce U5M in Buea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is uncertainty regarding the status of emergency obstetric and neonatal care (EmONC) in the Cameroonian context where maternal and neonatal mortality are persistently high. This study sought to evaluate the coverage, functionality and quality of EmONC services in Kumba health district (KHD), the largest health district in Southwest Cameroon..Methods: A retrospective study of routine EmONC data for the periods 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2012 (when EmONC was being introduced) and 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2014 (when EmONC was fully instituted) was conducted. Coverage, functionality and quality of EmONC services were graded as per United Nations (UN) standards. Data was analysed using Epi-Info version 7 statistical software.Results: Among the 31 health facilities in KHD, 12 (39%) had been delivering EmONC services. Three (25%) of these were geographically inaccessible Among the 9 facilities that were assessed, 4 facilities (44%) performed designated signal functions, with 2 being comprehensive (CEmONC) and 2 basic (BEmONC). These exceeded the required minimum of 2.8 EmONC facilities/500000, 0.6 CEmONC facilities/500000 and 2.2 BEmONC facilities/500000, with reference to an estimated KHD population of 265,071. The signal functions that were least likely to be performed were neonatal resuscitation, manual evacuation of retained products and use of anticonvulsants. In 2011-2012, the facilities performed 35% of expected deliveries. This dropped to 28% in 2013-2014. Caesarean sections as a proportion of expected deliveries remained very low: 1.5% in 2010-2011 and 3.6% in 2013-2014. In 2011-2012, met needs were 6.8% and increased to 7.3% in 2013-2014. Direct obstetric fatality rates increased from 8 to 11% (p = 0.64). Intrapartum and very early neonatal deaths increased from 4.% to 7 (p = 0.89).Conclusion: Major gaps were observed in the performance of signal functions as well as the quality and utilization of EmONC. While the results of this study seem to indicate the need to sustainably scale up the utilization of quality EmONC, the interpretations of our findings require consideration of improvements in reporting of mortality data associated with the introduction of EmONC as well as dynamics in country-specific maternal health policies and the potential influence of these policies on EmONC indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The endemic nature of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at increased risk of occupational exposure. However vaccination against HBV is not systematic among medical students in Cameroon. Thus, we sought to evaluate awareness and HBV vaccine coverage among medical students in Cameroon. Methods. Using semistructured questionnaire and a cross-sectional approach, medical students from 3 State Universities in Cameroon were evaluated for their knowledge, attitudes, and vaccination status against the HBV. Data were collected over a 3-month period. HBV vaccine status was defined as complete (3 doses), partial (1 and 2 doses), and unvaccinated. Data were entered and analyzed using Epi-info 7. Results. There were 714 respondents among whom 186 (26.05%) had been vaccinated at least once against HBV. Sixty-six (9.24%) were partially vaccinated and 120 (16.81%) completely vaccinated. No student had done postvaccination serologic testing to confirm full immunisation. Eighty-three percent (83.00%) of respondents had adequate knowledge on HBV infection and vaccine, while 90.00% had adequate knowledge on HBV transmission. Most medical students had a positive attitude towards the HBV vaccine. The most common negative attitudes were worries about the side effects and fears of being infected by the vaccine. Conclusion. Despite adequate knowledge on HBV infection and vaccination only about 1 in 6 medical students had completed the HBV vaccination series. This highlights the need for better health policies aimed at increasing access and coverage of the HBV in at-risk populations like medical students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study investigated the determinants of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Cameroon and Nigeria. Methods This analytic cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2021, including consenting HCWs aged ≥18 y identified using snowball sampling. Vaccine hesitancy was defined as indecisiveness or unwillingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Multilevel logistic regression yielded adjusted ORs (aORs) for vaccine hesitancy. Results We included a total of 598 (about 60% women) participants. Little or no trust in the approved COVID-19 vaccines (aOR=2.28, 95% CI 1.24 to 4.20), lower perception of the importance of the vaccine on their personal health (5.26, 2.38 to 11.6), greater concerns about vaccine-related adverse effects (3.45, 1.83 to 6.47) and uncertainty about colleagues' acceptability of the vaccine (2.98, 1.62 to 5.48) were associated with higher odds of vaccine hesitancy. In addition, participants with chronic disease (aOR=0.34, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.97) and higher levels of concerns about getting COVID-19 (0.40, 0.18 to 0.87) were less likely to be hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Conclusions COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among HCWs in this study was high and broadly determined by the perceived risk of COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines on personal health, mistrust in COVID-19 vaccines and uncertainty about colleagues' vaccine acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to establish whether an independent relationship exists between CD4 count and hypertension and if this relationship is modified or confounded by the body mass index (BMI). Methods. A secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional study on 200 HIV/AIDS patients at a referral hospital in Cameroon was conducted. Linear and logistic regression models were used as appropriate to explore the association between the variables of interest. Results. There was no linear association between log CD4 count and both systolic (p=0.200; r=0.12) and diastolic blood pressures (p=0.123; r=0.14), respectively. After adjusting for BMI, patients with CD4 count ≥ 350 cells/μl were more likely to have hypertension than those with CD4 count < 350 cells/μl (AOR: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.05–5.93, and p=0.032). There was no effect modification from BMI (test of homogeneity, p=0.721). There was no independent relationship between CD4 count and hypertension after controlling for age, sex, family history of hypertension, BMI-defined overweight, HAART use, and duration of HIV infection (AOR: 1.66, 95% CI: 0.48–5.71, and p=0.419). Conclusion. This study did not identify any independent relationship between CD4 count and hypertension. Large prospective studies are recommended to better explore this relationship between hypertension and CD4 count. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spina bifida and congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) are common congenital malformations which may occur together and increase morbidity. Monozygous twins are particularly at risk of these malformations and discordance in one type of malformation is typical. The occurrence of both spina bifida and CTEV in one twin of a monozygotic pair is rare. Case presentation: A 22 year-old Cameroonian primigravida at 36 weeks of a twin gestation was received in our district hospital at the expulsive phase of labour on a background of sub-optimal antenatal care. A caesarean section indicated for cephalo-pelvic disproportion was performed and life monoamniotic male twins were extracted. The first twin was normal. The second twin had spina bifida cystica and severe bilateral CTEV. Routine postnatal care was ensured and at day 2 of life, the affected twin was evacuated to a tertiary hospital for proper management. He was later on reported dead from complications of hydrocephalus. Conclusions: Spina bifida cystica with severe bilateral CTEV in one twin of a monoamniotic pair illustrates the complexity in the interplay of causal factors of these malformations even among monozygotic twins who are assumed to share similar genetic and environmental features. The occurrence and poor outcome of the malformations was probably potentiated by poor antenatal care. With postnatal diagnoses, a better outcome was difficult to secure even with prompt referral. Early prenatal diagnoses and appropriate counseling of parents are cardinal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: "Alice in Wonderland" syndrome (AIWS) is a rare neurological abnormality characterized by distortions of visual perceptions, body schema and experience of time. AIWS has been reported in patients with various infections such as infectious mononucleosis, H1N1 influenza, Cytomegalovirus encephalitis, and typhoid encephalopathy. However, AIWS occurring in a patient with severe malaria is less familiar and could pose serious primary care challenges in a low-income context.Case Presentation: A 9-year-old male of black African ethnicity was brought by his parents to our primary care hospital because for 2 days he had been experiencing intermittent sudden perceptions of his parents' heads and objects around him either "shrinking" or "expanding". The visual perceptions were usually brief and resolved spontaneously. One week prior to the onset of the visual problem, he had developed an intermittent high grade fever that was associated with other severe constitutional symptoms. Based on the historical and clinical data that were acquired, severe malaria was suspected and this was confirmed by hyperparasitaemia on blood film analysis. The patient was treated with quinine for 10 days. Apart from a single episode of generalized tonic-clonic seizures that was observed on the first day of treatment, the overall clinical progress was good. The visual illusions completely resolved and no further abnormalities were recorded during 3 months of follow-up.Conclusion: Symptoms of AIWS usually resolve spontaneously or after treatment of an underlying cause. In our case, the successful treatment of severe malaria coincided with a complete regression of AIWS whose aetiology was poorly-elucidated given the resource constraints. In any case, the good outcome of our patient aligns with previous reports on acute AIWS that highlight a limited need for excessive investigation and treatment modalities which are, in passing, predominantly unaffordable in resource-limited primary care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transanal protrusion of intussusception is a complication of intussusception which involves the exteriorization of the apex of the intussusceptum through the anus. However, it is rarely reported and its confusion with rectal prolapse often leads to a diagnostic delay. Case presentation: A 10-month-old female with no significant past history from a rural area in the Extreme North region of Cameroon was referred from a local health centre to our emergency deparment for an irreducible mass. It was reported that the child had spent 5 days at home on over-the-counter medication, then 3 days at a health centre where she was being treated for a respiratory tract infection and a rectal prolapse. On arrival at our hospital, she was conscious and moderately dehydrated. Cardiopulmonary examination revealed generalized coarse crackles over both lung fields. Her abdomen was tender, with a left upper quadrant mass, absent bowel sounds and a dark anal mass. In view of these, diagnoses of bronchopneumonia, intestinal obstruction and a probable rectal prolapse were made. An exploratory laparotomy was carried out after resuscitation with per-operative findings of a prolapsed ileo- colic intussusception and a necrosed intussusceptum. The necrosed portion was resected and an end-to-end ileo-transverse anastomosis was carried out. The immediate post- operative period was uneventful, but the patient died 3 days after the surgery, from an overwhelming sepsis. Conclusions: Transanal protrusion of intussusception requires timely surgical intervention to prevent mortality. The similarity in presentation to rectal prolapse coupled with inadequate knowledge on the condition by primary healthcare personnel causes a delay in the diagnosis and an increased mortality. A high index of suspicion is essential for an early diagnosis and an improved referral system for timely and definitive treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Right iliac vein thrombosis is uncommon in pregnancy. Nonetheless, when it does occur, its presentation could be very unspecific with important diagnostic challenges and this could have negative therapeutic consequences especially in a resource limited setting. Case presentation: The historical, clinical and laboratory data of a 30 year old G2P1001 woman of African ethnicity at 11 weeks of gestation pointed towards a right iliac vein thrombosis missed for an acute appendicitis with subsequent appendectomy and failure to cure. Following the diagnosis of right iliac vein thrombosis post-appendectomy, the patient was started on low molecular weight heparin and the clinical progress thereafter was favourable. Conclusion: Pelvic vein thrombosis should be considered a differential diagnosis of intractable lower abdominal pain in early pregnancy. A high index of suspicion could lead to early diagnosis, prompt management and a favourable prognosis even in a low-income setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Concurrent thyroid cancer (TC) and hyperthyroidism (HT) is rare though increasingly being reported. HT due to TC is much rarer and more challenging especially in Africa where TC and HT have significant case fatality rates. Case presentation: We present a 37-year-old Cameroonian female who had been on irregular regimens of propranolol and digoxin as treatment for worsening palpitations for 12 months. She came to our district hospital for her propranolol medication refill. We fortuitously identified features of HT and found a left uninodular goiter with no cervical lymphadenopathy. She was referred for thyroid assessment which suggested primary HT and an enlarged heterogeneous left lobe with a well-defined homogenous solid mass. We restarted her on propranolol and referred her for a course of methimazole. At the referral hospital, she also underwent a left thyroid lobectomy. The resected lobe was sent for histopathology which revealed a neoplastic nodule with features suggestive of a papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) causing HT. The patient's clinical progress postoperatively was good and there was regression of hyperthyroid symptoms. Conclusions: The historical, clinical, and laboratory findings were suggestive of HT due to PTC. A high index of suspicion, prompt referral and counter-referral lead to a positive outcome of such a rare case in a resource poor setting. We advocate for systematic and careful evaluation of all thyroid nodules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gradual improvements in the management of sickle cell disease (SCD), have led to an increase in the number of women with SCD who reach the age of procreation. However, evidence on the iron status of pregnant women with sickle cell disease (PWSCD) remains inconclusive. We conducted the first systematic review on the prevalence, determinants and maternal/foetal outcomes of iron deficiency anaemia among PWSCD.Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, Africa Index Medicus, the Cochrane library databases and reference lists of retrieved publications for studies describing the iron status of PWSCD. The literature search was done over a period of 1 month, with no language or date restrictions applied. Data were extracted on a Microsoft excel sheet. Two authors assessed all included studies for methodological quality and risk of bias.Results: A total of 710 reports were identified for title and article screening. Five retained studies were conducted before or during the 90s and included 67 participants. After quality assessment, the observational studies were designated to have a "fair" quality assessment while the randomised control trial had an "unclear" quality assessment. The prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among PWSCD varied by study design and diagnostic method. The overall prevalence ranged from 6.67-83.33%. None of the studies provided evidence on factors associated with iron deficiency anaemia and the randomized trial reported no difference in outcomes between PWSCD who had iron supplementation and those who did not.Conclusion: Evidence on factors associated with iron deficiency anaemia among PWSCD and maternal/foetal outcomes in PWSCD who have iron deficiency anaemia is poor. The studies included in this review suggests that iron deficiency anaemia may be highly prevalent in PWSCD but due to the very small sample sizes and varied study designs, this evidence is inconclusive. The review shows that there is a need for more studies with robust designs and adequate sample sizes to assess the disease burden of iron deficiency anaemia in PWSCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Programs that integrate tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment aim to provide efficient treatment services and maximize successful treatment outcomes through the delivery of both TB and HIV treatment by one provider at the same time and location. However, multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is more difficult to treat as compared to drug-sensitive TB, and in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the potential of programs integrating TB/HIV treatment to sustain favourable MDR-TB treatment outcomes is poorly elucidated. The objective of this review is to perform a systematic collection, critical appraisal and synthesis of existing evidence on therapeutic outcomes of MDR-TB and their predictors among adults receiving integrated treatment for TB/HIV in LMICs. Methods: A systematic review of quantitative evidence from observational cohort studies will be performed. MEDLINE, Embase, and Global Health electronic databases will be searched for relevant studies published from March 2004 to December 2019. Two investigators will independently screen the search output, review the eligible studies, and assess the quality of the eligible studies using quality assessment tools of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Random-effects meta-analysis will be used to obtain summary estimates. Heterogeneity across studies will be assessed using the I2 statistic. The confidence in the summary estimates will be rated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. The final review will be reported following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting System for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis, presented at scientific conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal. Discussion: This study is expected to report the performance of integrated TB/HIV treatment programs as regards their potential to uphold successful MDR-TB treatment outcomes in LMICs. Furthermore, the review will indicate patient-related and healthcare-related factors that should be addressed to improve on survival of patients with MDR-TB/HIV co-infection in LMICs. Systematic review registration: This review has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews and the reference ID is CRD42020159745 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Current literature on the role of excess weight in predicting surgical outcome is controversial. In sub-Saharan Africa, there is extreme paucity of data regarding this issue in spite of the increasing rates of obesity and overweight in the region. This prospective cohort study, carried out over a period of 4 months at Limbe Regional Hospital in the Southwest region of Cameroon, assessed 30-day postoperative outcome of abdominal surgery among consecutive adults with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2. Adverse postoperative events were reported as per Clavien–Dindo classification. Results: A total of 103 patients were enrolled. Of these, 68.9% were female. The mean age was 38.2 ± 13.7 years. Sixty-four (62.1%) of the patients were overweight and the mean BMI was 29.2 ±4.3 kg/m2. The physical status scores of the patients were either I or II. Appendectomy, myomectomy and hernia repair were the most performed procedures. The overall complication rate was 13/103 (12.6%), with 61.5% being Clavien–Dindo grades II or higher. From the lowest to the highest BMI category, there was a significant increase in the proportion of patients with complications; 25–29.9 kg/m2: 6.25%, 30–34.9 kg/m2: 18.75%, 35–39.9 kg/m2: 25.0%, and ≥ 40 kg/m2: 66.70%; p = 0.0086. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Malaria Vaccine Implementation Program, coordinated by the World Health Organization, intended to initiate the roll-out of the RTS, S/AS01 malaria vaccine in 3 sub-Saharan African countries in 2018. With sub-optimal implementation, the effectiveness of this vaccine in routine clinical use could be significantly lower than its measured efficacy in randomized trials. This study had as objectives to systematically review and summarize published studies addressing the challenges faced during the implementation phase of malaria vaccination programs and randomized trials conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. The review also sought to report proposed solutions to the challenges identified. Method: This was a systematic review of studies published between 1947 and 2017. Medline, Embase and the Cochrane library databases were searched. Of the 365 studies retrieved, 8 eligible studies reported on challenges of implementing a malaria vaccine in sub-Saharan Africa and possible solutions to these challenges. Data were abstracted from the eligible studies and a qualitative synthesis was done. Results: The 8 studies included in the review had a total of 6189 participants and used a variety of methodologies (3 qualitative, 1 quantitative, 3 mixed method studies and 1 clinical trial review). There was an overall positive acceptance towards the new malaria vaccine (n = 6/8 studies), with a mean acceptance rate of 86.1% (95% CI: 62.0–110.2, n = 2). The main challenges to vaccine receptivity were: inadequate community engagement due to lack of information about the vaccine (n = 6), fear of the vaccine’s side effects (n = 5), inefficient delivery of vaccination services to children (n = 4), and sub-optimal quality of the health services (n = 3). Main themes identified from the proposed solutions consisted of the following: using dynamic communication models and trusted sources for delivering vaccine-related health information to the communities (n = 6), community engagement at both national and district level (n = 6), implementing the new vaccine services alongside the existing health services already delivered (n = 6). Conclusion/Recommendations: Effective implementation of the malaria vaccine program requires careful consideration of the socio-cultural context of each community. The RTS, S/AS01 malaria vaccine acceptance and uptake may be significantly enhanced if caregivers’ perceptions about vaccines and their importance are adequately fine-tuned. In order to achieve these, community participation and the provision of adequate information in an acceptable form via reliable communication channels seem to be imperative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) are all independent predictors of cardio-metabolic risk and therefore important in HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy at risk of increased visceral adiposity. This study aimed to assess the extent of agreement between these parameters and the body mass index (BMI), as anthropometric parameters and in classifying cardio-metabolic risk in HIV/AIDS patients. Methods: A secondary analysis of data from a cross-sectional study involving 200 HIV/AIDS patients was done. Anthropometric parameters were measured from participants using standard guidelines and central obesity defined according to recommended criteria. Increased cardio-metabolic risk was defined according to the standard cut-off values for all four parameters. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14.1. Results: The prevalence of WC-defined central obesity, WHR-defined central obesity and WHtR > 0.50 were 33.5%, 44.5% and 36.5%, respectively. The prevalence of BMI-defined overweight and obesity was 40.5%. After adjusting for gender and HAART status, there was a significant linear association and correlation between WC and BMI (regression equation: WC (cm) = 37.184 + 1.756 BMI (Kg/m2) + 0.825 Male + 1.002 HAART, (p < 0.001, r = 0.65)), and between WHtR and BMI (regression equation: WHtR = 0.223 + 0.011 BMI (Kg/m2)– 0.0153 Male + 0.003 HAART, (p < 0.001, r = 0.65)), but not between WHR and BMI (p = 0.097, r = 0.13). There was no agreement between the WC, WHtR and BMI, and minimal agreement between the WHR and BMI, in identifying patients with an increased cardio-metabolic risk. Conclusion: Despite the observed linear association and correlation between these anthropometric parameters, the routine use of WC, WHR and WHtR as better predictors of cardio-metabolic risk should be encouraged in these patients, due to their minimal agreement with BMI in identifying HIV/AIDS patients with increased cardio-metabolic risk. HAART status does not appear to significantly affect the association between these anthropometric parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer has a high case fatality rate in sub-Saharan Africa, and this is chiefly because of late detection and inadequate treatment resources. Progressive renovations in diagnostic and management modalities of non-metastatic breast cancer (NMBC) have been noted in the region but there is paucity of data describing the clinical progress of patients with NMBC. This study sought to determine the rates of local relapse, distant metastasis and sequelae and the time span from initial treatment to the occurrence of these adverse events among patients with NMBC.Methods: This was a retrospective review of medical records of patients with histologically confirmed NMBC at the department of radiation therapy and oncology of the Douala General Hospital in Cameroon from the January 1997 to December 2012 period. Clinicopathological and treatment characteristics as well as occurrences of adverse events were studied.Results: A total of 260 cases were reviewed of which 224/260 (86.2%) had invasive ductal carcinoma. Surgery was performed on 258/260 cases (99.2%) with 187/258 (72.5%) being modified radical mastectomies. Various treatment combinations were used in up to 228/260 patients (87.5%) while surgery alone was the treatment in the remaining 32 cases (12.5%). Metastasis occurred in 142/260 cases (54.6%) of which 68/142 (26.2%) were local relapses and 74/142 (28.5%) were distant metastases. Among the cases of distant metastasis, 9.2% were bone, 8.5% lungs, 6.9% nodal, and 5.4% brain. Metastasis to multiple organs was noted in 4.7% of these cases. The median periods of occurrence of local relapse and distant metastases were 13 and 12 months respectively. Sequelae occurred in 26/260 cases (10%) and were noted after an average of 30 months. The main sequelae were lymphoedema (6.5%) and lung fibrosis (1.5%). At the end of the period under review, 118/260 patients (45.4%) were alive and disease-free with a median follow up time of 24 months.Conclusions: Adverse events were frequent among patients who received primary treatment for NMBC. Available cancer therapeutic modalities ought to be supplemented with efficient strategies of follow-up and monitoring so as to optimize the care provided to these patients and improve on their survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Unilateral renal cystic disease is a rare condition that shares morphological similarities with multicystic dysplastic kidney, the former often distinguished from the latter on some clinical and histopathological grounds. However serious diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas set in when there is a considerable overlap in the distinguishing features between these entities. Case presentation: A 19-year-old African female presented with a chronic severe debilitating right lower quadrant abdominal pain refractory to analgesics. Biochemical investigations and imaging studies revealed a non-functional polycystic right kidney and no identifiable pelvicalyceal system or ureter but with preserved renal function. The marked overlap in clinical presentation between unilateral renal cystic disease and multicystic dysplastic kidney in this patient necessitated further investigation to pose an appropriate diagnosis. A right nephrectomy was performed and histopathological analysis of the resected kidney done, the results of which were more consistent with unilateral renal cystic disease. The post-operative course was favorable. Conclusion: Unilateral renal cystic disease with an ipsilateral non-functional kidney and an atretic pelvicalyceal system is a very rare condition that needs to be distinguished from multicystic dysplastic kidney in order to guide management and set prognosis. A suspicion of either of these diseases therefore warrants a thorough clinical evaluation and the appropriate combination of biochemical and imaging investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lichen Simplex Chronicus (LSC) is chronic dermatitis caused by repetitive scratching or rubbing of the skin. It presents as hyperpigmentation and thickening of the skin with variable scaling. Because LSC is a secondary lesion with a wide variety of causes, optimal management is contingent on identifying and managing its exact aetiology. We report an intriguing case of LSC in an elderly patient with longstanding scabies and sensory neuropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous larva migrans is a neglected zoonotic helminthic disease which is paradoxically underreported in low-income and middle-income countries from where a majority of the cases emanate. It presents as migratory, raised, erythematous serpentine lesions, responsive to treatment with antihelminthics. It is common in children, but rare in babies. We report an unusual case of cutaneous larva migrans in a Cameroonian baby.Case Presentation: We report the case of a 9-month-old Cameroonian baby girl, whose mother had the habit of drying the child's clothes on the grass in her courtyard. The child was brought to our hospital after she developed itchy, snake-like, slowly progressing lesions on her abdomen and chest. An examination revealed multiple raised serpentine and erythematous skin lesions consistent with cutaneous larva migrans which subsided on antihelminthic and antihistaminic therapy.Conclusions: Cutaneous larva migrans is an endemic disease with predilection for poor and vulnerable persons. Preventive efforts such as wearing of slippers, usage of drying lines, and deworming of pets are crucial in preventing the occurrence of this disease and should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morbidity associated with iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy is increased in the presence of sickle cell anaemia. Iron supplementation in pregnant sicklers in a bid to resolve iron deficiency anaemia is recommended only after laboratory confirmation of iron deficiency. However, the greatest burden of sickle cell disease is seen in low and middle income countries where equipment for measuring body iron indices are unavailable.Sickle cell anaemia is an inherited disorder of haemoglobin synthesis characterized by life-long severe haemolytic anaemia. People with sickle cell anaemia are at increased risk of iron overload from haemolysis and recurrent multiple transfusions. Iron overload a complication of sickle cell disease, which is more often in thalassemias, is typically given undue fear in sickle cell anaemia especially in patients with no recent transfusion history. About a third of the haemolysis in sickle cell anaemia is intravascular, and the resulting excess iron is lost in urine. This may lead to a negative iron balance and iron deficiency. There is little evidence of iron overload in pregnant sicklers, and iron deficiency may be more common than suspected. Even when iron overload does occur in a condition called siderosis, the deposited iron is irreversible and thus cannot be reused by the body in case of susceptibility to iron deficiency. More so, in pregnancy there is an increase in the body's iron requirement by about 1000-1200 mg which is usually not met by dietary intake. Iron supplements could be given to pregnant sicklers, caution should however be taken in patients with history of recurrent transfusion.Anaemia is a common and feared complication in pregnancy. The co-existence of iron deficiency anaemia and sickle cell anaemia worsens prognosis of pregnancy. Iron overload a possible complication of sickle cell anaemia is related to multiple transfusions. The urinary losses from intravascular haemolysis and increased dietary requirement in pregnancy predispose even pregnant sicklers to iron deficiency anaemia. Iron supplements should thus conveniently be given to pregnant sicklers with no history of recurrent transfusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine is a combination of dihydroartemisinin and piperaquine which is highly effective in the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Its adverse effects are generally tolerable and temporary. Choreoathetosis, an involuntary movement disorder characterized by continuous irregular twisting of the body, is not a documented adverse effect of this medication.Case Presentation: A 41-year-old Cameroonian man of black African ethnicity was brought to our primary care hospital because over the previous 6 hours he had been experiencing involuntary twisting movements of his body and he no longer had control of his limbs. Earlier that day, he had been prescribed an appropriate dose of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine in our hospital. The abnormal movements started approximately 3 hours after ingesting the first dose of the drug. The review of systems and his past history were unremarkable. On clinical examination, he was conscious and oriented but was unsteady and displayed continuous generalized irregular twisting movements combined with abrupt low amplitude flinging of his limbs. Dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine-induced generalized choreoathetosis was diagnosed. He was sedated with diazepam and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine was discontinued. The antimalarial drug was substituted with artemether-lumefantrine combination. The clinical progress was good and he was discharged home after 72 hours. No further abnormalities were noted during 7 months of follow-up.Conclusion: Although dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine is increasingly popular as a well-tolerated/efficacious antimalarial drug, clinicians must note the rare possibility of choreoathetosis as an adverse effect of this medication and educate patients accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The rapid scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage in sub-Saharan Africa has encountered the challenge of maintaining international clinical standards of ART utilization and change of ART regimens. In Cameroon, scarce reports have documented the motives for change of ART. This study had as objective to investigate the reasons for switch in ART through a secondary analysis and descriptive synthesis of data from a cross-sectional study at the Limbe Regional Hospital. Results: One hundred participants were included. Their mean age was 40.2 ± 8.0 years and 70% of them were females. The median duration of ART use was 60 months. Zidovudine-Lamivudine-Nevirapine regimen was received by 83% of patients while the Stavudine-Lamivudine-Nevirapine regimen had the highest median duration of use (58 months). Most patients had experienced changes in ART (especially from Stavudine-Lamivudine-Nevirapine regimen) with the chief reason being unavailability of their previous regimens. Four patients had their ART changed due to active tuberculosis, 4 due to pregnancy and 7 due to ART toxicity (4 and 3 for peripheral neuropathy and lipodystrophy respectively). In conclusion, shortages in ART hugely influenced switch in regimens. In such a context, modifi- cations in ART possibly deviate from guidelines with resultant sub-optimal therapy and enhanced drug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is a metabolic disorder with many causes. It often presents with megaloblastic anaemia and neurological disorders which entail prompt treatment. The diagnosis of Vitamin B12 deficiency is challenging in resource limited-settings due to limited access to diagnostic tools and unfamiliarity with the disease, owing to its rarity especially in young people. Case presentation: A 28 year old female Cameroonian presented with progressive burning painful sensations on the upper trunk, paraesthesia and numbness of the upper and lower limbs for a period of 5 years. Before presenting to us, she had consulted in numerous health institutions for which she had been treated for diverse pathologies with no relieve of symptoms. After clinical and laboratory evaluation, a diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency-associated neuropathy was made. She was placed on oral vitamin B12 supplements at 2 mg daily for 3 months. Follow up was marked by good clinical recovery after 1 month of therapy. Conclusion: Vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy is a rare debilitating disease that affects mostly the elderly. However; young adults with neuropathic symptoms warrant a high index of suspicion. Peripheral blood smears and complete blood counts are sufficiently diagnostic in resource-limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic muscular disease, presenting mainly with contractures, weakness and cardiac conduction abnormalities. Its clinical and laboratory similarities to other muscular dystrophies, and rarity poses diagnostic challenges, requiring a high index of suspicion in resource limited settings. Case presentation: An 8 year old sub-Saharan male presented with rigidity and deformity of both elbows and ankles, and weakness of the upper limbs and lower limbs for duration of 4 months. This progressed to inability to stand and walk. There was no mental impairment. Physical examination was remarkable for contractures of the elbows and ankles, and wasting of muscles of the limbs and trunk, with a scapulohumeroperoneal pattern, and tachycardia. After laboratory investigations, a diagnosis of Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy was suspected. Physiotherapy was started, wheel chair was prescribed, and referral to a specialist center was done for appropriate management. Conclusions: Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy is a rare disabling muscular disease which poses a diagnostic challenge. High index of suspicion is paramount for its early diagnoses to prevent orthopedic and cardiac complications. Prompt diagnosis and management is essential to improve on the prognosis of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is defined as perihepatitis associated with pelvic inflammatory disease. Chlamydia trachomatis is one of its most common aetiologies. This syndrome usually presents with right upper quadrant abdominal pain mimicking other hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal pathologies, hence, posing a diagnostic dilemma in settings with limited diagnostic tools. Case report: A 32 year old African female presented with acute right upper quadrant abdominal pain and vaginal discharge, for which she had previously received treatment in another health center with no improvement. Clinical and laboratory findings were suggestive of Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome. Five days after treatment with oral doxycycline, the patient showed marked clinical improvement. Conclusion: Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is a common cause of right upper quadrant pain which is often under diagnosed in poor communities. Hence, it should be included as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with right upper quadrant pain, especially in females of reproductive age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snakebites are a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide with the highest mortality burden in poor rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. Inadequate surveillance systems result in loss of morbidity and mortality data in these settings. Although rarely reported in these resource-constraint environments, community-based audits are recognised pivotal tools which could help update existing data and indicate key public health interventions to curb snakebite-related mortality. Herein, we present two cases of snakebite-related deaths in a rural Cameroonian community. Case presentations: The first case was a 3-year-old female who presented at a primary care health centre and was later referred due to absence of antivenom serum (AVS). However, she had an early fatal outcome before getting to the referral hospital. The second case was an 80-year-old traditional healer who got bitten while attempting to kill a snake. He died before hospital presentation. Conclusion: Community-based audits help identify key intervention points to curb snakebite mortality in high-risk rural areas like ours. From our audits, we note a remarkable absence of affordable AVS in rural health facilities in Cameroon. We recommend frequent community health education sessions on preventing snakebites; continuous training modules for health personnel from high-risk areas; training traditional healers on the importance of AVS in managing cases of snakebite envenoming, and the need for timely hospital presentation; and setting up context-specific approaches to rapidly transport snakebite victims to hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heterotopic pregnancies are rare in spontaneous conceptions. Nonetheless, when it does occur, the intrauterine pregnancy is usually viable. We herein present a true rarity of the coexistence of a blighted ovum and an ectopic pregnancy. Case presentation: A 25 year old G2P1001 married seamstress of African ethnicity at 8 weeks of amenorrhoea presented to our health facility with a 4 day history of lower abdominal pains and vaginal bleeding for which physical examination revealed a closed cervix. Trans-abdominal ultrasound scan confirmed a diagnosis of a blighted ovum and an ectopic pregnancy. Patient was managed with surgical therapy. Evolution thereafter was uneventful. Conclusion: The case presented confirms that HP can occur in the absence of predisposing factors, and that the detection of a blighted ovum should not preclude the possibility of a simultaneous ectopic pregnancy. A high index of suspicion could lead to early diagnosis, prompt management and a favourable prognosis even in a low-income setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]