1. The Role of Capillary Zone Electrophoresis in Hemoglobinopathy Diagnosis
Dilip Kumar Das, Madhusmita Mishra, Swagatika Agarwal
Dilip Kumar Das, Madhusmita Mishra, Swagatika Agarwal
Abstract
Hemoglobinopathies are inherited blood disorders that affect the hemoglobin molecule, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. These disorders can be caused by mutations in the genes that code for the globin chains that make up hemoglobin. They can result in abnormal hemoglobin structure, reduced hemoglobin production, or both. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of hemoglobninopathies detected by capillary electrophoresis method in individuals by capillary electrophoresis method. Methods: This study was carried out on 395 individuals referred medical college. Blood samples were collected in EDTA vacutainer tubes, then CBC including blood indexes (MCV, MCH), level of Hemoglobin A, Hb F, Hb A2 and other hemoglobin’s were evaluated and also genetic tests applied for them to confirm results that were acquired by capillary electrophoresis method. Results: 77 (19.7%) subjects had HbA2 ≥3.5%, thus were classified as beta thalassemia carrier and 3.3%, 2.5%, 1.5% and 0.5% of the individuals were heterozygote for Hb S, Hb D, Hb C and Hb Bart, respectively. Results of the genetic analysis showed the mutations in these subjects; cd36-37(-T) was the most frequent mutation in beta thalassemia carriers in this geographic region. Conclusion: This study showed high frequency of beta thalassemia mutations in the (19.7), and 7.85% of the individuals had hemoglobin variants including Hb S, Hb D and Hb C detected by capillary electrophoresis. Capillary electrophoresis could be used for detection of hemoglobinopathies.
2. Incidence of Peripheral Neuropathy and its Effect in the Severity of Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology
Baishali Biswas, Piyali Sarkar, Kartik Chandra Ghosh
Baishali Biswas, Piyali Sarkar, Kartik Chandra Ghosh
Abstract
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder causing elevated blood glucose levels. It leads to complications like retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, affecting organ systems. Understanding these complications is crucial for healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care and prevent long-term adverse outcomes. Peripheral neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy are common microvascular complications, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to diabetes management. Aims: The aim of the study is to assess the incidence of peripheral neuropathy and its effect on the severity of retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: The present study was a Observational and cross-sectional study. This Study was conducted from 1 Year at Department of Ophthalmology. Study population 150. Result: A significant association was found between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetes mellitus (DM) groups (χ² = 150.0000, p < 0.0001), with varying eye involvement across DM subgroups (χ² = 84.6154, p < 0.0001). Motor and sensory nerve latency and amplitude changes were strongly associated with DM status (χ² = 38.2353, p < 0.0001). Additionally, RNFL thickness decreased with increasing DR severity (χ² = 58.0364, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes patients is linked to advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy, necessitating early screening and comprehensive diabetes care to manage complications.
3. Study of Complications during Laparoscopic Surgery and Identify Associated Risk Factors
Mayoor Daigavane, Siddharth Gurwani, Leena Balpande
Mayoor Daigavane, Siddharth Gurwani, Leena Balpande
Abstract
Objective: To analyze the frequency of complications during laparoscopic surgery and identify associated risk factors. Methods: A descriptive observational study was performed between January 2024 and December 2024 and included all laparoscopies performed at our center. Variables were recorded for patient characteristics, indication for surgery, length of hospital stay (in days), major and minor complications, and conversions to laparotomy. Results: Of all 188 laparoscopies included, most were procedures of moderate difficulty (adnexal surgery) (54.2%). The overall frequency of major complications was 1.93%, and that of minor complications was 4.29%. The level of technical difficulty and existence of prior abdominal surgery were associated with a higher risk of major complications and conversions to laparotomy. Conclusion: Laparoscopic surgery is associated with a low frequency of complications but is a procedure that is not without risk. Greater technical difficulty, inexperienced surgeon and prior surgery were factors associated with a higher frequency of complications.
4. Comparative Study Between Ropivacaine Alone and Ropivacaine with Tramadol in Different Doses for Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block
Sumbul Anwar, Sakshi Naidu, Sunil Kumar Rajpoot, Manish Kumar Dwivedi
Sumbul Anwar, Sakshi Naidu, Sunil Kumar Rajpoot, Manish Kumar Dwivedi
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To find minimal and effective dose of tramadol as an adjuvant for brachial plexus block for faster onset of motor, sensory block, and duration of analgesia. Material and Methods: This prospective, randomized, comparative, double blind study was conducted on 75 patients undergoing upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial plexus block among three groups of 25 each (Group R, Group RT 1 and Group RT 2). Block was given with 20 mL of 0.5% Ropivacaine + 10 ml NS in Group B, 20 mL of 0.5% Bupivacaine with Tramadol 1 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg in 10ml NS in Group BT1 and Group BT2 respectively. Onset of sensory and motor block, duration of analgesia and motor block, side effects associated with tramadol were observed and compared among groups. Observations and Results: Onset of sensory and motor blockade was significantly faster statistically (p < 0.05) in Group RT2 (11.2 minutes and 6.00 minutes respectively) compared to Group RT1 (13.6 minutes and 9.00 minutes respectively) and Group R (18.8 minutes and 10.5 minutes respectively). Duration of analgesia among groups was significantly longer statistically in Group RT2 (326.20 minutes) compared to other groups. Duration of motor blockade among groups significantly longer in the RT2 (270.8 minutes) compared to Group RT1 and Group R. There were statistically insignificant side effects among groups. Conclusion: Tramadol in various doses, as an adjuvant to local anesthetics can be used safely and effectively with insignificant side effects.
5. An Observational Study to Determine the Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease in Newly Diagnosed Depressive Disorder Patients
P. Menaka, A. Sudhamathy, S. Uma Maheshwari
P. Menaka, A. Sudhamathy, S. Uma Maheshwari
Abstract
Background: Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a common ocular condition characterized by tear film instability and ocular surface damage. Recent studies indicate a strong association between DED and depressive disorders, particularly in newly diagnosed cases. Both conditions share inflammatory and neurophysiological mechanisms that may exacerbate visual symptoms and reduce quality of life. Objective: To determine the prevalence of dry eye disease among newly diagnosed depressive disorder patients prior to any pharmacological intervention and to analyze clinical parameters associated with DED in this group. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Departments of Psychiatry and Ophthalmology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai, involving 100 patients diagnosed with depressive disorder. Patients were classified based on ICD-10 criteria and underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation including visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination, Schirmer’s test, Tear Film Break-Up Time (TBUT), Tear Film Meniscus Height (TFMH), and Oxford grading. Dry eye was diagnosed if two or more tests were abnormal. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v16.0. Chi-square test was used to assess significance, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among 100 patients, 42% were diagnosed with DED. A significant association was found between age >50 years and dry eye (63.6%). Female patients (58.2%) were more affected than males (22.2%) (p=0.029). Abnormal blink rate and increased severity of depression correlated with higher incidence of DED. TBUT was abnormal in 40%, Schirmer’s score in 38%, TFMH in 37%, and Oxford score in 38% of dry eye cases. Conclusion: Dry eye disease was prevalent in 42% of newly diagnosed depressive disorder patients, independent of antidepressant use. Early screening for DED in psychiatric settings may prevent complications and improve patient outcomes through timely ophthalmologic intervention.
6. Macroscopic Neck Findings in Asphyxial Deaths Due to Hanging and Strangulation with Special Reference to the Hyoid Bone at Police Morgue Autopsies
Rajorshi Dutta, Apurba Biswas
Rajorshi Dutta, Apurba Biswas
Abstract
Introduction: Asphyxial deaths from strangling or hanging are most commonly caused by neck lesions associated with laryngohyoid fractures. Therefore, it is unclear if these clinical characteristics are important for diagnosing the asphyxia mode. Aims: This study aims to compare macroscopic neck findings in asphyxial deaths due to hanging and strangulation, focusing on hyoid bone fractures. It evaluates their frequency and patterns to aid in determining the manner of death, supporting accurate differentiation between suicidal, homicidal, and accidental asphyxia in forensic investigations. Materials and Methods: For this observational cross-sectional investigation, asphyxial death cases from hanging or strangling were collected between July 2022 and December 2023. While autopsy records were used to include cases, decomposed or mangled remains and other types of asphyxia were excluded. The sample size was calculated using Solvin’s technique, and statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism software version 8. Results: The most common method among the 100 instances was hanging (n=83), which was followed by throttling (n=3), partial hanging (n=5), and strangulation (n=9). 26% of instances had abrasions, whereas 69% showed none at all. Most of the knots were placed over the left mastoid (56%), followed by the right mastoid (17%) and the occipital bone 7%. Seventy-seven percent of the deceased in the hanging cases had a high level of ligature material. Grooved ligature marks were significantly more common in hanging victims than in strangulated victims (56% vs. 1%, p<0.0001), and they were most common in victims aged 41–50 years (p=0.91). 19% of hanging and strangulation instances had abrasions, compared to 77% (p<0.0001), 37.5% of strangling victims had damaged skin, but 59% of hanging victims had dry skin beneath the ligature (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: By pointing up significant variations in outcomes between hanging and strangling fatalities, this study enhances forensic assessments and highlights the importance of thorough autopsy.
7. Pregnancy Outcome of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Among Mothers Attending A Tertiary Care Hospital in Kolkata: An Observational Prospective Study
Satyendu Sekhar Manna
Satyendu Sekhar Manna
Abstract
Objectives: To study outcomes of mothers with GDM attending a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata. Methods: This prospective observational study was done in a tertiary care hospital, Kolkata for one year. Single-step testing using 75 gm oral glucose and measuring blood sugar 2 hours after ingestion was done on the first visit irrespective of associated risk factors and gestational period. Mothers diagnosed with GDM were managed by Medical Nutrition Therapy with or without pharmacotherapy as required for glycemic control. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were documented and analyzed. Results: Out of 981 screened with OGTT, 102(10.39%) mothers were diagnosed to have GDM. Ninety-two mothers were followed up till delivery. Most of the GDM mothers are between 25-30yrs. PPH and Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were common antenatal complications. No maternal death or congenital anomalies occurred among mothers with GDM. Conclusion: Detecting GDM at the earliest and proper management reduces maternal as well as neonatal adverse outcomes.
8. Estimation of the Prevalence of Hepatic Dysfunction Among Dengue Infected Patients: A Hospital Based Cross-Sectional Study
Amrita Chatterjee, Biyanka Sau, Aniket Chatterjee, Subhayan Lahiri
Amrita Chatterjee, Biyanka Sau, Aniket Chatterjee, Subhayan Lahiri
Abstract
Introduction: This study investigates the frequency of liver involvement in dengue patients and the potential of abnormal liver function tests as early indicators of illness severity. Results show a clear correlation between severe dengue outcomes and hepatic impairment, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment for this public health concern. Aims: To assess the prevalence of liver dysfunction in Dengue patients and its association with Dengue-related complications. Materials and Methods: The present study was a Hospital based Observational Cross sectional study. This Study was conducted from February 2022 to June 2022 at Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Central Laboratory, OPD Biochemistry and Microbiology Laboratory, Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata. 121 dengue infected patients were included in our study. Result: The results indicate that the majority of participants were young to middle-aged, predominantly male, and mostly from urban areas. Fever was a universal symptom, with vomiting and abdominal pain also common. Liver enzyme levels were elevated in many patients, indicating varying degrees of hepatic dysfunction—most commonly mild to moderate. A significant association was found between the severity of dengue and liver dysfunction, with abnormal liver function more prevalent in severe cases. Moreover, patients with hepatic dysfunction had a higher incidence of ICU admission and mortality, highlighting liver involvement as a marker of worse clinical outcomes in dengue infection. Conclusion: In summary, the study findings highlight that hepatic dysfunction is prevalent among dengue patients, particularly in more severe forms of the disease. While most liver involvement is mild to moderate, its presence correlates with a higher likelihood of adverse outcomes. These results underscore the importance of early identification and monitoring of liver function in dengue patients, especially those presenting with warning signs or severe symptoms.