1. Prospective Study On Liver Function Test Derangements and Serum Ferritin Levels in Dengue Fever
K. Siva Rama Krishna Sai, Satya Krishna Modukuri
K. Siva Rama Krishna Sai, Satya Krishna Modukuri
Abstract
Background: Dengue fever is a major arboviral infection causing significant morbidity in tropical countries. Hepatic dysfunction and elevated inflammatory markers such as serum ferritin are increasingly recognized as indicators of disease severity. Aim: To evaluate liver function test derangements and serum ferritin levels in dengue fever and determine their association with dengue severity and clinical outcomes. Methods: This hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted at Government Medical College, Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh. A total of 61 laboratory-confirmed dengue patients aged ≥18 years were en-rolled after written informed consent. Clinical details, laboratory investigations, liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin, albumin), and serum ferritin levels were recorded at admission. Patients were classified accord-ing to WHO 2009 dengue severity criteria. Associations between biochemical parameters and clinical outcomes were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results: The mean age of participants was 34.8 ± 12.6 years, and males constituted 62.3% of the study popula-tion. Elevated AST and ALT were observed in 80.3% and 67.2% of patients respectively, while AST > ALT pattern was noted in 72.1% cases. Mean serum ferritin levels were significantly higher among patients with dengue warning signs/severe dengue compared to uncomplicated dengue (1184.6 ± 472.8 vs 486.3 ± 210.5 ng/mL; p<0.001). Elevated ferritin levels were significantly associated with plasma leakage, bleeding manifesta-tions, ICU admission, and prolonged hospitalization. Conclusion: Liver function test abnormalities and elevated serum ferritin levels are significantly associated with dengue severity and adverse outcomes. These biomarkers may help in early risk stratification and clinical man-agement of dengue patients.
2. Diffusion Weighted Imaging as a Diagnostic Tool in the Evaluation of Ovarian Masses
Ragini T., V. Kusuma, G. V. Sunanda Lakshmi
Ragini T., V. Kusuma, G. V. Sunanda Lakshmi
Abstract
Background: Ovarian masses represent a spectrum of pathologies ranging from benign to malignant lesions. Accurate preoperative differentiation between benign and malignant ovarian masses is crucial for appropriate surgical planning and patient management. Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI) is an advanced functional MRI technique that reflects tissue cellularity by measuring the random Brownian motion of water molecules, offering quantitative data through Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) values. Objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of DWI and ADC values in differentiating benign from malignant ovarian masses, and to determine an optimal ADC cutoff value. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Radiodiagnosis, ACSR Government General Hospital & Government Medical College, Nellore, from January 2023 to June 2025. A total of 30 patients with ovarian masses who underwent plain (non-contrast) MRI pelvis on a 1.5 Tesla Siemens Magnetom Sempra MRI machine were included. DWI was performed and ADC values were calculated. Histopathological findings served as the gold standard. Results: Of 30 patients, 24 (80%) had benign lesions and 6 (20%) had malignant lesions. DWI restriction was noted in 6 patients, of whom 5 (83.3%) were malignant and 1 (16.7%) was a false positive (endometrioma). One malignant case (low-grade mucinous cystadenocarcinoma) showed no restriction (false negative). The mean ADC value for malignant masses was 0.87 ± 0.18 × 10⁻³ mm²/s versus 1.52 ± 0.43 × 10⁻³ mm²/s for benign masses (p < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity of DWI were 83.3% and 95.8%, respectively. Conclusion: DWI combined with ADC value measurement is a valuable, non-invasive, non-contrast adjunct to conventional MRI in characterizing ovarian masses. Combined evaluation significantly improves diagnostic accuracy for ovarian malignancies.
3. Drug Interactions of Antihypertensives with Cardiac Anatomy, Hemodynamics, and Electrophysiological Properties: A Comprehensive Review
Nandita Agrawal, Saurav Deka, Dibyajyoti Goswami
Nandita Agrawal, Saurav Deka, Dibyajyoti Goswami
Abstract
Aim: This review aims to systematically evaluate clinically relevant drug interactions of major antihypertensive drug classes—angiotensin‑converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), beta‑blockers, calcium channel blockers (CCBs), and diuretics—with other cardiovascular and non‑cardiovascular drugs, focusing on their combined effects on cardiac anatomy, hemodynamic parameters, and cardiac electrophysiological properties. Materials and Methods: A structured literature review was performed using PubMed, NCBI Bookshelf (StatPearls), and major cardiology/pharmacology textbooks to identify original studies, reviews, and practice guidelines on antihypertensive drug interactions. Inclusion criteria were: English‑language publications (2000–2026), studies reporting hemodynamic, echocardiographic, or electrocardiographic outcomes, and drug‑interaction studies involving ≥1 antihypertensive agent. Data were extracted on drug class, interacting agents, mechanism (pharmacokinetic vs pharmacodynamic), site of interaction (vascular bed, myocardium, conduction system), and clinical outcomes (BP, heart rate, QT interval, AV‑node conduction, myocardial mass, chamber size). For illustrative purposes, a hypothetical cohort dataset was constructed to simulate real‑world polypharmacy scenarios in hypertensive patients, allowing description of statistical testing methods. Results: Pharmacokinetic interactions most commonly involve CYP3A4‑dependent metabolism, particularly with verapamil and diltiazem, which inhibit CYP3A4 and increase plasma levels of co‑administered substrates (e.g., statins, antiarrhythmics, immunosuppressants). Pharmacodynamic interactions include additive hypotension with vasodilator combinations (e.g., dihydropyridine CCB + alpha‑1 blocker), enhanced AV‑nodal blockade with beta‑blocker + verapamil/diltiazem, and QT‑prolongation when some antihypertensives (e.g., certain CCBs) are combined with QT‑prolonging antiarrhythmics or psychotropics. Nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) antagonize the antihypertensive effect of ACEIs, ARBs, and diuretics by inducing sodium retention and vasoconstriction, while also increasing the risk of renal dysfunction when combined with renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors. Hemodynamically, beta‑blockers and RAAS inhibitors favorably reduce myocardial wall stress and left ventricular hypertrophy, whereas unbalanced vasodilators may transiently increase shear‑stress patterns in atherosclerotic segments. Conclusion: Antihypertensive drug interactions profoundly influence cardiac structure, hemodynamics, and electrophysiology. Awareness of key pharmacokinetic (CYP3A4‑mediated) and pharmacodynamic (additive vasodilation, AV‑nodal blockade, volume‑related) interactions is essential for prescribing safely in hypertensive patients with polypharmacy. Tailoring combinations to underlying cardiac anatomy (e.g., LVH, chamber dilatation) and electrophysiological substrate (e.g., sinus node disease, QT‑interval drugs) reduces the risk of hypotension, bradyarrhythmias, and sudden cardiac events.
4. Clinicopathological Study of Fatal Burn Cases with Medicolegal Implications: An Autopsy-Based Observational Study
Biprojit Debbarman, Diptanu Deb, Dipti Debbarma
Biprojit Debbarman, Diptanu Deb, Dipti Debbarma
Abstract
Background: Burn injuries continue to be a major public health concern and an important cause of unnatural deaths worldwide. Fatal burn cases frequently pose diagnostic and medicolegal challenges regarding determination of cause, manner, and timing of injuries. Clinicopathological correlation through autopsy examination provides valuable insights into burn pathology, mechanisms of death, and forensic interpretation. Objectives: To study the demographic profile, clinicopathological features, autopsy findings, causes of death, and medicolegal aspects of fatal burn cases. Materials and Methods: A prospective autopsy-based observational study was conducted on 150 consecutive fatal burn cases brought for medicolegal autopsy to the Department of Forensic Medicine of a tertiary care teaching hospital over a period of two years. Detailed information regarding age, sex, marital status, manner of death, total body surface area (TBSA) involvement, survival period, treatment history, clinical complications, and autopsy findings was collected. Histopathological examination of skin and internal organs was performed in selected cases. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis and p <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The majority of victims belonged to the age group of 21–40 years (50.0%). Females constituted 62.0% of cases. Flame burns accounted for 86.0% of cases. Accidental burns were observed in 68.7%, suicidal burns in 24.0%, and homicidal burns in 7.3% cases. Septicemia (38.0%) was the most common immediate cause of death followed by shock (26.0%) and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (14.7%). Mortality increased significantly with increasing TBSA involvement (p<0.001). Histopathological examination revealed coagulative necrosis, inflammatory infiltration, vascular congestion, edema, and granulation tissue formation. Conclusion: Fatal burn injuries predominantly affect young females and are commonly accidental in nature. Autopsy and histopathological examination provide crucial evidence regarding burn vitality, cause of death, and medicolegal interpretation. Comprehensive evaluation of burn deaths is essential for accurate forensic conclusions and administration of justice.
5. Role of Inflammatory Markers in Estimation of Wound Age: A Clinicopathological and Immunohistochemical Study
Biprojit Debbarman, Diptanu Deb, Dipti Debbarma
Biprojit Debbarman, Diptanu Deb, Dipti Debbarma
Abstract
Background: Accurate estimation of wound age is one of the most challenging aspects of forensic pathology. Conventional histopathological methods provide only approximate estimates, particularly during the early post-traumatic period. Inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) have emerged as promising biomarkers for wound age estimation owing to their predictable temporal expression during wound healing. Aim: To evaluate the utility of inflammatory markers IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in determining wound age through histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Materials and Methods: A prospective clinicopathological study was conducted on 100 skin wound specimens obtained during medicolegal autopsies. Cases with known survival intervals were categorized into five groups according to wound age. Routine hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemical analysis for IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β were performed. Expression intensity was assessed semi-quantitatively and correlated with known wound age. Results: A progressive increase in expression of IL-6 and TNF-α was observed with increasing wound age. IL-6 demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy with sensitivity of 88.4% and specificity of 81.6%. TNF-α showed sensitivity of 84.2% and specificity of 76.3%. IL-1β exhibited variable expression and lower predictive value. Significant positive correlations were found between cytokine expression and wound age (p<0.001). Conclusion: IL-6 and TNF-α are reliable inflammatory biomarkers for wound age estimation, especially during the early post-traumatic interval. Combining immunohistochemical markers with routine histopathology enhances the accuracy of forensic wound dating.
6. MRI Staging of Carcinoma Rectum with Peroperative and Pathological Correlation
R. Sathiya, C. Kalaivani, SP. Sethuraman
R. Sathiya, C. Kalaivani, SP. Sethuraman
Abstract
Background: Carcinoma rectum is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Accurate preoperative staging is essential for determining optimal treatment strategies, particularly regarding the use of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and the selection of appropriate surgical techniques. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as the preferred modality for locoregional staging of rectal carcinoma, offering superior soft-tissue resolution and multiplanar capability. This study is aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 1.5-Tesla MRI in preoperative T-staging and nodal assessment of rectal carcinoma and to correlate these findings with peroperative and histopathological data. Methods: A hospital-based observational study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Fifty patients with histologically confirmed carcinoma rectum were enrolled. MRI was performed using a 1.5-Tesla unit employing T1-weighted, T2-weighted (axial, sagittal, and coronal), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) sequences. TNM staging based on MRI findings was correlated with intraoperative findings and postoperative histopathological examination (HPE) in 26 surgically managed patients. Results: The study population comprised 37 males (74%) and 13 females (26%), predominantly aged above 50 years. Adenocarcinoma was the most common histological type (94%). Mid-rectal location was most frequent (64%). MRI identified mesorectal fascia (MRF) invasion in 6 patients (12%) and extramural vascular invasion (EMVI) in 11 patients (22%). Lymph node involvement was detected in 27 patients (54%), predominantly in the mesorectal compartment. MRI staging demonstrated a sensitivity of 89%, specificity of 71%, and overall accuracy of 86.42% for T2 stage when compared to HPE. Among 31 post-chemoradiotherapy patients, tumour regression grade (TRG) assessment showed Grade 3 response in 55% of cases. Conclusion: MRI is a highly accurate and reliable modality for preoperative staging of carcinoma rectum. It provides critical information on T-stage, circumferential resection margin, extramural vascular invasion, and nodal status with sensitivity and specificity comparable to the gold standard histopathological assessment. DWI sequences are particularly valuable in treatment response evaluation and surveillance for recurrence. MRI should be adopted as the standard first-line imaging investigation in rectal cancer management.
7. AI Image Generation as a Tool in Plastic Surgery for Patient Education
Tanmayee Abhay Thite, Galav Tiwari, Vikas Kumar Malviya
Tanmayee Abhay Thite, Galav Tiwari, Vikas Kumar Malviya
Abstract
Aim: AI image generation is emerging as a practical adjunct in plastic surgery, especially for patient education, consultation, and expectation management. This paper explores its potential to improve communication while also examining the limitations related to anatomical accuracy, demographic bias, and ethical use. Materials and Methods: A narrative review framework was used to synthesize recent evidence on generative AI, text-to-image models, and AI-assisted visual tools in plastic surgery. Emphasis was placed on studies evaluating realism, representativeness, educational value, and bias in generated images across aesthetic and reconstructive contexts. Result: The available literature suggests that AI-generated images can support preoperative counselling, illustrate procedure concepts, and enhance patient understanding. However, studies also show that current models frequently overrepresent young, White, female patients in aesthetic contexts and may produce anatomically inaccurate or stereotyped outputs, limiting their reliability as standalone educational material. Conclusion: AI image generation has meaningful potential as a patient education tool in plastic surgery, but its use should remain supervised, transparent, and ethically framed. The strongest current role for this technology is as a visual aid that complements surgeon explanation rather than replacing clinical judgement or traditional counselling.
8. Dexmedetomidine versus Metoprolol for Hemodynamic Stability during Carbon Dioxide Pneumoperitoneum in Laparoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Seshi C., Senthilkumar T., Aravindhan N., Kalaiyarasi C.
Seshi C., Senthilkumar T., Aravindhan N., Kalaiyarasi C.
Abstract
Background: Carbon dioxide (CO₂) pneumoperitoneum, which is integral to laparoscopic surgery, predictably induces sympathetic activation that manifests as elevated mean arterial pressure (MAP), tachycardia, and increased systemic vascular resistance (SVR). These hemodynamic perturbations, if left uncontrolled, can jeopardize patient safety, particularly in those with underlying cardiovascular morbidity. Both alpha-2 adrenergic agonists and selective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blockers have been studied as pharmacological interventions for attenuating this response. This randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy and adverse effect profiles of dexmedetomidine (an alpha-2 agonist) and metoprolol (a selective beta-1 blocker) in maintaining perioperative hemodynamic stability in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic surgery. Methods: Sixty-two patients of either sex, aged 18–65 years, classified as ASA physical status I or II, were randomly allocated into two equal groups of 31 each. Group D received a bolus dose of dexmedetomidine 1 µg/kg intravenously (IV), administered over 10 minutes, commencing 5 minutes before CO₂ pneumoperitoneum. Group M received IV metoprolol 50 µg/kg over 10 minutes, also starting 5 minutes before pneumoperitoneum. MAP and heart rate (HR) were recorded at six time points: baseline, before pneumoperitoneum, 15 minutes after pneumoperitoneum, 30 minutes after pneumoperitoneum, after release of pneumoperitoneum, and after extubation. Adverse events including hypotension, bradycardia, and hypertension were also recorded. Results: Both groups demonstrated effective attenuation of MAP and HR throughout the perioperative period. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for MAP at any time point (P values ranged from 0.262 to 0.905). For HR, a statistically significant difference emerged from 30 minutes after pneumoperitoneum onward, with Group M showing lower heart rates (P = 0.009 at 30 min, P = 0.004 after release, P = 0.003 at extubation). However, adverse events were significantly more frequent in Group M: hypotension occurred in 4 patients (12.9%) and 0 patients in Groups M and D respectively (P = 0.000), while bradycardia requiring atropine occurred in 3 patients (9.66%) in Group M versus 1 patient (3.22%) in Group D (P = 0.000). Phenylephrine was required in 4 patients (12.9%) in Group M for intraoperative hypotension, while no patient in Group D required vasopressor support. Conclusion: Both dexmedetomidine and metoprolol effectively attenuate the hemodynamic stress response to CO₂ pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic surgery. Comparative efficacy in MAP control is equivalent between the two agents. However, the adverse effect profile of dexmedetomidine is significantly more favourable, with lower incidences of intraoperative hypotension and bradycardia. Dexmedetomidine is therefore recommended as a safer agent for perioperative hemodynamic management in laparoscopic procedures.
9. Knowledge, Attitude, And Practice Regarding Cervical Cancer Screening and HPV Vaccination Among Women/Health Personnel
Pedduri Sushma, Veneela Pasupuleti, Rita Ekka
Pedduri Sushma, Veneela Pasupuleti, Rita Ekka
Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is largely preventable through regular screening and HPV vaccination, yet awareness and utilization remain inadequate in many settings. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding CC screening and HPV vaccination among women and health personnel. Methods: This prospective hospital-based study was conducted in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kamineni Institute of Medical Sciences, Narketpally, from September 2025 to March 2026. A total of 240 participants, including 160 women and 80 health personnel, were enrolled using a structured pretested questionnaire. Data on sociodemographic details, knowledge, attitude, and preventive practice were collected and analysed using SPSS version 22.0. Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, logistic regression, and correlation analysis were applied. Results: Health personnel had significantly better awareness of CC, Pap smear, HPV infection, and HPV vaccination than women. Positive attitude towards screening and vaccination was also higher among health personnel. However, actual practice remained poor in both groups. Only a small proportion of women and health personnel had undergone Pap smear screening or received HPV vaccination. Conclusion: Despite relatively favourable awareness and attitude, preventive practices were inadequate. Focused education, counselling, and institution-based screening and vaccination strategies are essential.
10. Drug Utilization Pattern, Adverse Drug Reactions, and Cost Analysis of Anti-Epileptic Drugs in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Assam: A Prospective Observational Study
Bordoloi P., Devi T., Rajkhowa K.
Bordoloi P., Devi T., Rajkhowa K.
Abstract
Background: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder requiring long-term anti-epileptic drug (AED) therapy. Prolonged AED use is often associated with adverse drug reactions (ADRs), increased treatment cost, and concerns regarding rational prescribing. Objectives: To evaluate the utilization pattern of AEDs, assess ADRs, and analyse the cost implications of AED therapy in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Assam. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 328 patients receiving AED therapy over six months. Drug utilization was assessed using World Health Organization (WHO) prescribing indicators and Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Dose (ATC/DDD) methodology. ADRs were evaluated using Naranjo’s causality assessment scale and Hartwig’s severity assessment scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: Male patients constituted 59.76% of the study population. Generalized tonic–clonic seizures were the most common seizure type (68.29%). Polytherapy was prescribed more frequently (58.54%) than monotherapy (41.46%). Clobazam, levetiracetam, and phenytoin were the most commonly prescribed AEDs. A total of 125 patients experienced ADRs, predominantly central nervous system-related effects. Most ADRs were categorized as probable and mild in severity. Polytherapy was significantly associated with higher ADR incidence and treatment cost compared with monotherapy (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that polytherapy independently increased the likelihood of ADR occurrence. Conclusion: Polytherapy and conventional AED use were associated with greater ADR burden and higher treatment cost. Rational prescribing and regular ADR monitoring may improve patient safety and therapeutic outcomes in epilepsy management.
11. A Comparative Study of Fetomaternal Outcome in Pregnant Women with Advanced Maternal Age versus Young Pregnant Women in a Tertiary Care Center
Divya Chaudhary, Bhamini Jakhetiya, Kanchan Yadav, Arun Gupta, Shraddha Upadhyaya, Aditi Sharma
Divya Chaudhary, Bhamini Jakhetiya, Kanchan Yadav, Arun Gupta, Shraddha Upadhyaya, Aditi Sharma
Abstract
Introduction: Age is an important determinant for maternal and fetal outcome. With changing lifestyles and to accomplish their professional goals, women are deliberately planning pregnancy in advanced age. Aims & Objectives: The objective of the study was to compare maternal and fetal outcomes in women with advanced maternal age and young pregnant women and to evaluate the risk factors associated with advanced maternal age and analyse the relationship between maternal age and pregnancy outcome. Methodology: This retrospective, comparative clinical study was performed in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at a tertiary care centre in Southern Rajasthan over six months. All females who delivered during this period were divided into two age groups. Group A included pregnant women of age less than 35 years & Group B included patients over 35 years or above. Data was collected from the medical record room and was analysed statistically. Results: Most of the participants in this study were urban, educated, and booked. Significant Family history and past history (p-value .0003) were present in 40% and 68.57% of Group B females, respectively. Artificial reproductive techniques were used by 14.28% of Group B females. First-trimester complications were present in 28.57% and 71.43% Group A and Group B women, respectively (p-value=0.000336, significant). Most common being bleeding per vaginum. Artificial feeding was opted by 20% of Group B mothers. The Fisher exact test statistic value is 0.0112. Conclusion: Despite medical advancements, age continues to be a significant factor in pregnancy. Regardless of the order of their pregnancies, middle-aged women had more first trimester and postpartum complications and chose artificial feeding more.
12. Autopsy Study of Sudden Death Cases in the Age Group 20–40 Years at a Tertiary Health Care Center
Ashok Kumar Sharma, Aditya Saxena, Pankaj Kulshreshtha
Ashok Kumar Sharma, Aditya Saxena, Pankaj Kulshreshtha
Abstract
Aim: Sudden death in young adults is a major medico-legal and public health concern, especially when it occurs in apparently healthy individuals. The present autopsy-based study aimed to determine the demographic profile, pattern of causes, and major pathological findings among sudden death cases in the 20–40-year age group at a tertiary health care center. Sudden death in young persons is frequently linked to cardiovascular causes, but non-cardiac etiologies also contribute substantially, making postmortem evaluation essential for accurate diagnosis and prevention strategies. Materials and Methods: This retrospective descriptive autopsy study included all sudden death cases in individuals aged 20–40 years brought for medicolegal autopsy to a tertiary care center over the study period. Sudden death was defined as an unexpected natural death occurring within a short time of symptom onset in an apparently stable person. Data were collected from autopsy reports, histopathology records, and available clinical and police documentation. Variables analyzed included age, sex, residence, circumstances of death, gross autopsy findings, organ-specific causes, and histopathological correlations. Cases of traumatic death, decomposed bodies with inadequate evaluation, and incomplete records were excluded. The findings were summarized using descriptive statistics, and associations were tested using chi-square or Fisher’s exact test as appropriate. Result: The study showed male predominance among sudden death cases, with the highest frequency in the 31–40-year age group, followed by 20–30 years. Cardiovascular causes formed the largest group, especially ischemic heart disease, coronary atherosclerosis, acute myocardial infarction, and hypertrophic cardiac changes. Non-cardiac causes included pulmonary embolism, intracranial hemorrhage, bronchial asthma, and septic or infectious causes. A proportion of cases remained unascertained even after complete autopsy and histopathology, suggesting the possibility of primary arrhythmogenic disorders or subtle structural disease. Gross autopsy findings such as coronary narrowing, left ventricular hypertrophy, pulmonary edema, and thromboembolism were frequent accompanying observations. Conclusion: Sudden death in the 20–40-year age group is most often due to cardiovascular pathology, particularly premature coronary artery disease and structural cardiac abnormalities. Autopsy with histopathological examination remains the gold standard for identifying cause of death and for generating medico-legal as well as preventive health insights. Early recognition of risk factors, public awareness, and better screening of young adults may help reduce avoidable sudden deaths.
13. Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Delayed Tooth Eruption in Children
Pushkar Singh Parihar, Niharika Singh
Pushkar Singh Parihar, Niharika Singh
Abstract
Background: Tooth eruption is a critical developmental milestone in children, influenced by genetic, nutritional, and endocrine factors. Vitamin D plays a central role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism which is vital for mineralization of bone and teeth. This study examines the association between Vitamin D deficiency and delayed tooth eruption in children. Objective: To determine whether serum Vitamin D levels are associated with the timing of tooth eruption in children aged 6–12 years. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 150 children attending the outpatient department at Shyam Shah Medical College, Rewa. Eruption status was assessed clinically and correlated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Delayed eruption was defined using standardized periodontal eruption charts and age-matched norms. Serum Vitamin D levels were categorized as sufficient (>30 ng/mL), insufficient (21–30 ng/mL), and deficient (<20 ng/mL). Results: Of the 150 subjects, 62 (41%) had Vitamin D deficiency, 45 (30%) had insufficiency, and 43 (29%) had sufficient levels. Delayed tooth eruption was observed in 48 children (32%). A significant association was found between Vitamin D deficiency and delayed eruption (p < 0.01). Children with deficient Vitamin D had 3.2 times higher odds of delayed tooth eruption compared to those with sufficient levels. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with delayed tooth eruption in children. Early identification and correction of Vitamin D deficiency may support normal dental developmental patterns.
14. Dental Caries and Its Association with Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Children: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study
Pushkar Singh Parihar, Niharika Singh
Pushkar Singh Parihar, Niharika Singh
Abstract
Background: Dental caries is the most prevalent chronic infectious disease of childhood, affecting oral health and possibly contributing to systemic conditions including recurrent upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). Few studies from Central India have explored this association. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of dental caries in children aged 3–12 years attending a tertiary care hospital in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, and to investigate its association with the frequency of recurrent URTI. Methods: A hospital-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted at Shyam Shah Medical College & SGM Hospital, Rewa, from July 2023 to June 2024. A total of 312 children (age 3–12 years) were enrolled. Dental caries was assessed using the WHO DMFT/dmft index. URTI episodes were recorded from medical records and parental history. Logistic regression was used to assess association. Results: Dental caries prevalence was 63.5% (n=198). Mean dmft in primary dentition was 5.07 ± 2.61. Children with ≥6 URTI episodes/year had significantly higher caries prevalence (87.1%) compared to those with 0–2 episodes/year (42.9%; p<0.001). On multivariate logistic regression, frequent URTI (≥6/year) was independently associated with dental caries (aOR 6.72; 95% CI: 2.91–15.5; p<0.001), after adjusting for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and oral hygiene. Conclusions: A strong and independent association exists between dental caries and recurrent URTI in children. Integrated pediatric-dental screening programs and oral health promotion should be prioritized in tertiary care settings in Central India.
15. A Study of the Metrical and Non-Metrical Traits of the Human Skull: A Cadaveric Osteological Analysis
Vaishali Bhagwat, Nitin Masaram, Nagorao Dernase
Vaishali Bhagwat, Nitin Masaram, Nagorao Dernase
Abstract
Background: The human skull exhibits numerous metrical and non-metrical traits that are important in anthropology, forensic identification, and anatomical research. Metrical traits involve measurable parameters such as cranial length and breadth, while non-metrical traits include sutural variations, foramina, and accessory bones. These features helps in sex determination and population studies. Aim: To analyze the metrical and non-metrical traits of adult human skulls and evaluate their anthropological significance. Materials and Methods: The present osteological study was conducted between 2022 and 2025 in the Department of Anatomy. Fifty adult dry human skulls of unknown sex were examined. Standard anthropometric instruments were used for recording cranial length, breadth, height, and cephalic index. Non-metrical traits such as metopic suture, wormian bones, supraorbital notch/foramen, and accessory foramina were observed and documented. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results: The mean cranial length was 176.4 ± 6.2 mm and mean cranial breadth was 132.8 ± 5.4 mm. The average cephalic index was 75.3 indicating predominance of mesocephalic skull type. Metopic suture was observed in 8% skulls. Wormian bones were present in 26% specimens. Supraorbital foramen was seen bilaterally in 42% skulls. Conclusion: Considerable variation exists in both metrical and non-metrical traits of skull. These findings are useful in forensic identification, racial classification, and clinical practices involving cranial surgeries.