International Journal of

Current Pharmaceutical Review and Research

e-ISSN: 0976 822X

NMC Approved

Peer Review Journal

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1. Exploring Student Perspectives on Clinical Pharmacology as Elective Posting as a Part of CBME Elective Programme: An Observational Study
Madhuri Chatterjee, Vineet Kumar, Swagata Datta, Purnendu Mandal
Abstract
Background: Presently Medical education in India is in transforming phase from traditional curriculum to competency-based medical education (CBME) and clinical pharmacology as block 1 elective is a part of it. We found no research done in this field in our country and there is lack of knowledge about the impact of implementing clinical pharmacology as Block 1 elective posting. The areas like prescription audit, prescription writing, case follow up, Pharmacoeconomics, Peer group teaching and skill performance were included. Aims: Our aim was to formulate ideas for successful implementation of clinical pharmacology as elective posting. Settings and Design: The study was a prospective, observational, cross-sectional study done on final prof part 2 students of our institution who pursued clinical pharmacology as elective in SRIMS Durgapur from 12/05/2023 to 10/06/2023. Materials and Methods: The outcome measured in terms of validated feedback questionnaire supplied in printed format. Data were analysed using SPSS version 17 and Microsoft Excel 2007. The data obtained were expressed as mean, SD and SEM. Results: A total of 35 students from 38 allotted students responded. 94% students responded that the course details adequately explained to them. Nearly 91% students were able to interact ask questions to the facilitators. 89% students thought that facilitators focused on communication skills. Most of the students found (83%) the course organised well. Conclusions: The students chosen clinical pharmacology as elective were benefitted by getting more clinical pharmacology exposure that will help them in further development of clinical knowledge and practice.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

2. Psychiatric Symptoms in Primary Fibromyalgia and Fibromyalgia Secondary to Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comparative Study
Rahul Mishra, Jeetandra Kumar Sharma, Vinay Kumar Oddam, Pradeep Kumar Pathak, Bhavna Chopra, Rupesh Kumar Gupta
Abstract
Introduction: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common occurrence among patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study aimed to assess the variations in psychiatric comorbidities and life challenges between individuals with Rheumatoid arthritis plus FM (secondary fibromyalgia [SFM]) and those with primary FM (PFM). Materials and Methods: We recruited 45 patients with PFM and 53 with SFM for the study. This cross-sectional, observational study involved structured interviews with patients diagnosed with PFM and SFM to determine lifetime occurrences of major depression (MDD), panic disorder (PD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, participants were evaluated for childhood/adulthood adversities and the severity of FM-related symptoms. Results: Univariate analysis revealed significantly higher lifetime rates of MDD in PFM compared to SFM, as well as higher rates of PD, with no notable difference in PTSD rates. Furthermore, rates of sexual abuse and physical neglect were notably higher in PFM patients than in SFM patients. Life events occurring before the onset of FM differed between the PFM and SFM groups. In the logistic regression model, lifetime PD and physical neglect emerged as independent risk factors for PFM. Conclusion: These findings indicate that PFM and SFM exhibit differences in psychiatric comorbidities and environmental adversities, suggesting that a common pathogenesis may manifest through distinct pathways.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

3. Association of Automated Cell Counter RBC Histograms and Peripheral Smear in the Diagnosis of Anemia
Jaydeep Gorani, Hitesh Anadkat, Bimal Patel
Abstract
Background and Aim: Automate peripheral blood count for the diagnosis of anemia is a fundamental process, and the instrument can give some of the basic and advanced parameters; however, there is a need to depend on a manual microscopic scan of peripheral smear for the morphological correlation and other clues which the cell analyzers cannot determine. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between Abbott cell dyn ruby- 5 part analyzer automated haematology analyzer histograms and peripheral smear utilising blood samples from the pathology department at HIMS HASSAN. Material and Methods: In this investigation, 2000 patients’ peripheral blood smears were examined and linked with cell counters produced RBC indices and histograms. Source of data: CBC samples sent for analysis received at Department of Pathology, GAIMS, Bhuj, and Gujarat. RBC indices were observed in conjunction with the histogram pattern. • Microcytic hypochromic anaemia • normocytic normochromic anaemia • macrocytic anaemia • dimorphic anaemia • haemolytic anaemia. Results: The majority of those affected by anaemia were between the ages of 31 and 50. That the majority of patients (69.2%) had Microcytic hypochromic anaemia and displayed diverse histograms. In all, 14% of histograms were normal, 27% had a left-shifted curve, 43% had a broad-based curve, 5% had a short peak, and 6% had a bimodal peaked histogram. In our study, we observed cases of Microcytic hypochromic anaemia with less than normal ranges of Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and increased Red cell Distribution Width (RDW). Conclusion: Technologists can use histograms to help them identify the cases that call for specialised peripheral smear testing. The RBC Histogram becomes a valuable diagnostic tool when the proper interpretation of the curve is combined with the results of blood count features like red cell distribution width and red cell indices.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

4. Glycemic Status of Acute Organophosphorus Poisoning Patients at Presentation and its Correlation with the Severity of Poisoning in a Tertiary Care Centre of Tripura
Abir Bhowmik, Subrata Bhowmik, Subhradeep Pal, Aiswarya J Vinod
Abstract
Introduction: Organophosphorus (OP) poisoning is a burning health issue in a agriculture dependent country like India. Its exposure is a serious threat that may affect human and animal health because of their various toxicities. Glycemic status of the patient who has consumed organophosphorus compound may help us to predict the severity and prognosis in such patients. Aims and Objectives: (1) To check glycemic status by random blood glucose level at time of admission in acute organophosphorus poisoning. (2) To correlate the blood glucose level with severity and prognosis. Method: this was a prospective analytical study, done at Dept of medicine, AGMC & GBPH from July 2022 to June 2023 with 100 patients. Results: Patients were categorized into hypoglycemic (35%), euglycemic (53%) hyperglycemic (12%) & the outcome in terms of mortality was 57.14%, 5.66% and 41.67% in the respective groups. Further, random blood sugar was compared with POP and PSS to look for statistically significant association between the extremes of glycemic status and higher grades of clinical severity scores using Chi-square test. The established Peradeniya Organophosphorus Poisoning Scale (POP) and Poisoning Severity Scale (PSS) revealed the study to be statistically significant (p value= 0.001) indicating both the extremes of glycemic status are associated with high clinical severity and poorer outcomes.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

5. An Attempt to Revise and Update the Reference Interval of Lipase in the Population Attending a Teaching Hospital in Eastern India
Arindam Sur, Samarpita Mukherjee, Sharmistha Chatterjee, Indranil Chakraborty
Abstract
Background: As per the proposal of ISO: 15189: NABL -112& CLIA guidelines, a laboratory should ideally establish its own reference intervals for all the parameters specific to the population it serves. Accordingly, a project was taken up to revise and update the reference interval of lipase in the population attending the departmental clinical lab. Material & Methods: This observational, cross sectional database study was carried out at Department of Biochemistry in a teaching hospital. 126 individuals were included in the study provided they satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: On statistical analysis of the compiled data, it was found that the values of lipase ranged from 47.96 U/l – 51.79 U/l(95% confidence interval) with a mean was of 49. 87 U/L. Skewness was found to be 0.990 and kurtosis 1.572 which assured the normal distribution of healthy study population.  No significant age and sex differences were found among males and females. Significance was considered at P value <0.05. Conclusion: We found that the reference interval of the reagent manufacturers were set at a bit higher level for the population and it needs to be updated. This study also established reference interval of lipase did not show significant age and sex differences, suggesting that males and females share the same reference interval.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

6. Investigating the Factors Contributing to Medication Reconciliation Errors in an Indian Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital
Abhishek Acharya, Pankaj Arora, Namita Arora
Abstract
Medication errors represent a critical challenge in healthcare, posing risks to patient safety and well-being. This article explores the diverse spectrum of medication errors, aiming to shed light on their complexities and implications for clinical practice. Pharmaceutical omission accounted for 43.51% of all pharmaceutical errors and occurred nearly three times as often as the second most common form of mistake. During the study period, Pharmacist has reported highest medication errors [648 (48.04%)] followed by nursing staff and Doctors [461 (34.17%)] and [240 (17.79%)] respectively. The majority of medication order errors happened during hospital admission (60.12%), which is twice as high as the error rate during the hospital stay (23.8%). Medication omission (43.51%), dosage mistakes (13.79%), and data entry errors (12.08%) were the three most common kinds of errors across all ward specialties.  Medication errors pose significant challenges to patient safety and healthcare quality. By understanding the various types of medication errors, identifying their root causes, and implementing proactive prevention strategies, healthcare providers can mitigate risks and improve medication safety for all patients.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

7. Estimation of Vit D Levels in Patients with Low Back Ache at a Tertiary Care Centre in North India- A Prospective Study
Neeraj Mahajan, Aakash Deep, Arti Khurana, Sanjeev Gupta, Anil Kumar, Suraydev Aman Singh
Abstract
Background: Low back pain is a very common condition, about 90% of people suffer from it at some point in their lives. Low back pain remains a significant health problem in terms of low quality of life, loss of work, cost of evaluation and varied treatment approaches. Treatment of low backache not only includes treating it symptomatically, but also treating the underlying pathology so that the patient gets satisfactory and lasting relief. Several researchers have indicated that vitamin D deficiency may be possibly related to chronic low back pain. This study was aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and idiopathic low back pain in patients and to examine its effects on pain. Material & Methods:  This was a prospective observational study done at Government Medical College, Jammu on 200 patients who visited the out patient department of orthopaedics with complaints of idiopathic non specific low back pain for a period of atleast 3 months or more. Fasting venous blood samples were withdrawn and subjected to an automated chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) analyser to estimate serum Vit D3 levels. Results: Out of 200 patients, around 80 % patients of the patients were found to have inadequate VitD3 levels with 63% of patients being deficient while the rest 17% had insufficient Vit D levels. Conclusion: Evaluation as well as management strategy of Chronic low back ache patients is multidisciplinary. Clinical guidelines for the management of chronic low back pain should include an evaluation of the patient’s vitamin D3 status.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

8. Local Anaesthesia versus Spinal Anaesthesia in Inguinal Hernia Surgery: A Comparative Study
Mirat Dholakia, Navubha Sodha, Harsh Anadkat
Abstract
Background and Aim: Comparative studies on the recovery characteristics of local, general, and regional anaesthesia indicate that local anaesthesia is optimal for day care surgery. The objective of this study was to assess if using a local anesthetic approach is a viable substitute for spinal anaesthesia in hernia repair surgeries. This assessment focused on factors such as operating circumstances, satisfaction of both the patient and surgeon, postoperative pain management, and any potential consequences. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in the surgical department, medical ward, and affiliated hospital. A total of twenty-three individuals were evenly divided between Group A and Group B. Group A had inguinal hernia mesh repairs under local anaesthesia, whereas group B received spinal anaesthesia. Group A received local anaesthesia with 2% xylocaine with adrenaline at a dosage of 4-6 mg/kg (n=60).  Group B received spinal anaesthesia (SA) with a dosage of 0.3 mg/kg in adults and 0.4 mg/kg in children, using a 0.5% bupivacaine solution. The group consisted of 60 participants. Results: Out of the 56 individuals who had spinal anaesthesia, none reported any discomfort (VAS = 0) during surgery. However, two cases each suffered mild and moderate pain. Regarding local anaesthesia, 12 cases reported no discomfort (VAS = 0), 16 cases experienced mild pain (VAS 1-3), 24 cases had moderate pain (VAS 4-6), and 8 cases suffered from severe pain (VAS >= 7). Conclusion: Local anaesthesia is a viable and efficient approach for repairing inguinal hernias in adults. It is comparable to spinal anaesthesia in terms of patient satisfaction regarding factors such as surgery duration, post-operative pain, complications associated with spinal anaesthesia, recovery from anaesthesia (early post-operative ambulation), and length of hospital stay.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

9. Comparison of Hemodynamic Parameters in Severe Pre Eclamptic and Normotensive Parturients after Spinal Anesthesia during Caesarean Section
Debjani Basu, Manabendra Sarkar, Archana Roy, Soumya Adhya
Abstract
Introduction: Caesarean sections are now frequently performed under spinal anaesthesia to reduce the risk of airway difficulties and the medication transfer to the neonate associated with general anesthesia. Maternal hypotension following spinal anesthesia is a common side effect, even with adequate fluid loading. Aims: In severe pre-eclamptic and normotensive parturients undergoing caesarean sections, to compare the degree of hypotension and the amount of phenylephrine required intraoperatively to treat it in order to assess the safety and effectiveness of spinal anesthesia. Materials and Methods: The study is Observational prospective study. This study was carried out among patients scheduled for Caesarean section. Period Of Study: One and half year (March 2020 – August 2021). This study was conducted after obtaining permission from the institute’s Ethical committee, scientific committee as well as approval of the West Bengal University of Health Sciences. This was conducted at obstetric operation theatre of Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal. Result: The percentage change of mean SBP, DBP, and MAP from baseline did not differ statistically significant between the two groups. Group A (normotensive parturients) consumed more phenylephrine than patient of group B (severe pre eclamptic parturients) and the difference was statistically significant (100.00+14.76 vs. 28.57, p= 0.006). The incidence of hypotension was statistically significant, higher in group A (75% vs.57.1%) than in group B. Conclusion: We compared the changes in hemodynamic parameters between severe pre-eclampsia parturients and normotensive parturients in a prospective comparative study. Although it was not statistically significant, normotensive parturients in our research had more percentage of falls of MAP than parturients with severe pre-eclampsia. Additionally, we discovered that normotensive parturients required more phenylephrine than did parturients with severe pre-eclampsia.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

10. Comparative Evaluation of Terbinafine and Ciclopirox Olamine Cream for Treating Dermatophytosis: Alone Vs. Combination Therapy
Anjali Shreyas Palav, Jatin Jitendra Bamania, Miralben G Adroja, Chandni S Likhiya
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Various antifungal agents, including oral and topical formulations, have been developed for treating dermatophytosis. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of 1% terbinafine hydrochloride cream and 1% ciclopirox olamine cream, both separately and in combination, for dermatophytosis treatment. Materials and Methods: In this randomized comparative study, 90 patients diagnosed with tinea corporis, tinea cruris, or tinea faciei were allocated randomly into three groups, each comprising 30 patients. Group 1 received topical 1% terbinafine hydrochloride cream twice daily for 6 weeks. Group 2 received topical 1% ciclopirox olamine cream twice daily for 6 weeks. Group 3 received topical 1% terbinafine hydrochloride cream once daily in the morning and 1% ciclopirox olamine cream once daily in the evening for 6 weeks. Therapeutic outcomes were assessed clinically at 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment using a structured questionnaire. Results: After 6 weeks of treatment, Terbinafine group showed no erythema in 0 (0.00%) patient, moderate erythema in 2 (2.22%) patients, and mild erythema in 26 (28.89%) patients. In Ciclopirox group, mild erythema was observed in 19 (21.11%) patients after 6 weeks of treatment. In combination group, moderate erythema was observed in 3 (3.33%) patient, mild erythema in 22 (24.44%) patients, and no erythema in 5 patients after 6 weeks of treatment. None of the patients experienced severe erythema. Conclusion: Combination therapy with terbinafine hydrochloride and ciclopirox olamine demonstrated improved therapeutic response with a lower relapse rate and no significant side effects.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

11. Hoarseness of Voice: Analysis of Aetiopathological Factors and Clinical Correlations
Hitesh Satapara, Zincal Shah, Rinkal Diwan, Zeel Patel
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Hoarseness typically represents an initial indicator of both localized and systemic ailments. It is characterized by a voice that is perceived as rough, harsh, or breathy. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involve disruptions in vocal cord oscillation due to hypertonic dysphonia, which results from either incomplete glottal closure during phonation or increased vocal cord mass, potentially caused by tumors. Methods: This was a prospective study that included 89 patients chosen via a simple random sampling method. Participants ranged in age from 2 to 70 years and presented with a history of hoarse voice. They were assessed at the E.N.T. outpatient department of a tertiary care medical college and hospital in India. Results: The study identified vocal cord congestion as the most prevalent lesion. Vocal cord nodules was the second most common condition followed by vocal cord polyps. Each of the conditions including supraglottic malignancy and vocal cord growth was found in few patients. Hypopharyngeal malignancies and tonsillar malignancies were also identified in few patients. Also, cases of epiglottic cysts, vocal cord palsy, subglottic malignancy, laryngeal papilloma, vocal cord haemangioma, vocal cord hemorrhage, Reinke’s edema, and vocal cord edema were found. Conclusion: The investigation found that vocal cord congestion were the most common pathological finding, followed by vocal cord nodules then vocal cord polyps. Vocal cord palsy and malignancy related to vocal cord are very rare causes of hoarseness of voice. Factors contributing to these conditions included voice abuse, smoking, and the use of tobacco and betel nuts.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

12. Estimation of Physical Fitness Index in Relation to Body Mass Index Using the Modified Harvard Step Test
Lata S Gupta, Sheetal Yuvaraj Markam, Anamika Samant, Jyothi Vybhavi V S
Abstract
Background: Physical fitness encompasses more than just being free from debilitating diseases or deformities and the ability to efficiently carry out desk-bound tasks; it also involves a feeling of physical well-being and the ability to handle emergencies that require unusual physical exertion. The Modified Harvard Step Test (HST) is a relatively precise and dependable method for measuring the Physical Fitness Index (PFI). Factors such as body mass index impact cardiorespiratory endurance and lung function. The current study evaluates how body mass index influences cardiac and pulmonary fitness. Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the Department of Physiology on young and healthy adult male and female medical students. Assessment of Physical Fitness Index (PFI): The PFI level at which the subjects of the research were measured was provided through the use of a modified Harvard Step Test. Anthropometric measurements were noted for each participant and blood pressure was measured as per the standard protocol. PFI rating was done according to the modified Harvard Step Test for males and females. Results: The majority of the male participants had lower fitness levels. Fitness among females proved to be higher than in males as a whole. It may be because of the higher prevalence of physical activity in females compared to males of this group. This study found a positive correlation between physical activity and physical fitness. Regularly engaging in physical activity proved to be one of the keys to maintaining a proper fitness level. On the other hand, overweight and obesity were associated with a decline in physical fitness assessments. In the study, a correlation was found between exercise and heart rate variability during exercise. Individuals with higher fitness levels exhibited lower heart rate variability. Conclusion: The findings of the study confirm the traditional connection between exercise and fitness. Regular physical activity is a factor that may influence the level of fitness. Moreover, there was a correlation between fitness levels and heart rate variability during exercise, and the more fit individuals demonstrated lower variability. These results highlight the importance of exercise practice among medical students to increase their physical ability.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

13. Isolation and Antibiogram of Non-Fermentative Gram-Negative Bacilli in Various Clinical Specimens: Implications for Antibiotic Therapy
Vijay Vitore, Ahire Gunwant Vijay
Abstract
Background: A broad class of aerobic, non-spore-forming bacilli known as non-fermentative gram-negative bacilli (NFGNB) either do not use carbohydrates as a source of energy or break them down by alternative metabolic pathways to fermentation. Patients with certain illnesses or conditions are more likely to become infected with non-fermenters. These include cancers, especially those affecting the reticuloendothelial system, instrumentation, surgery, urinary tract catheterizations, intravascular catheterization, lumbar punctures, tracheostomy, dialysis, lavages, shunt placement, prosthetics, prolonged antibiotic use, and chronic infections. Additional risk factors include exudative lesions, burns, and open wounds. Aim: The study’s goal was to identify NFGNB down to the genus and species level and examine their pattern of antibiotic sensitivity and resistance so that the appropriate empirical therapy could be chosen. Material and Method: The Microbiology Department’s Bacteriology Section is where the current study was carried out. Depending on the clinical diagnosis of each patient, a total of 400 clinical samples were taken from patients who were hospitalized to the hospital’s ICU and different wards. Urine, pus, blood, ear, high vaginal, sputum, endotracheal secretions, tracheal aspirate, and other bodily fluids were among them. Of the total samples, 250 samples were taken from patients admitted to different hospital wards, and 150 samples were taken from patients in the intensive care unit.  In accordance with the guidelines set forth by the institutional ethics committee, each research subject signed an informed consent form.  Patients who wished to participate in the trial or their guardians gave written, informed consent. Results: Non-fermenting Gram-negative bacilli were isolated from 400 clinical specimens accounting for an isolation rate of 10.20%. two fifty specimens (62.5%) showed polymicrobial infection where non-fermenters were isolated along with other organisms, of which E. coli and S. aureus were commonly associated. Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates in our study were highly susceptible to Colistin (96.79%), Amikacin, Tobramycin (75%), Piperacillin/Tazobactam (62.85%) and imipenem (59.61%) Like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumanii was also highly susceptible to Colistin (85.10%). The drug Imipenem in our institute was more sensitive to Acinetobacter (75.31%) as compared to Pseudomonas (59.61%).Conclusion: NFGNBs are becoming more and more significant opportunistic pathogens, and they are immune to several conventional  antibiotics. Underlying host variables were highly correlated with the result for each of these organisms. Microbiologists and clinics alike have challenges due to the interaction between these multidrug-resistant bacteria and the multidrug-resistant population of immune-compromised patients. Reducing mortality and improving patient management would be achieved by early diagnosis and the implementation of empirical therapy based on the institute’s local antibiogram data.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

14. An Observational Study on Risk Factors and Outcomes of Severe Neonatal Jaundice Requiring Exchange Transfusion in Tertiary Care Hospital in Hyderabad
Varda Khan, Syed Akram Moin
Abstract
Aim: To find out the prevalence of specific risk factors among babies who received exchange transfusion for severe neonatal jaundice and to note their clinical outcome at the end of one month post procedure. Materials and Methods: Retrospective Observational Study done in NICU, SNCU and Level-3 ICU at Niloufer Hospital for Women and Children from 18 months. 56 neonates who received exchange transfusion for severe neonatal jaundice. Results: Majority of the babies were admitted on the day of birth (39%) followed by 1st DOL (14%) followed by 5th DOL (13%). Majority of the babies underwent ET on 1st DOL (18%) followed by day of birth (16%) followed by 5th DOL (16%) neonates. %). Maximum admissions for hyperbilirubinemia occurred on birth day itself.  Mean TSB on DOA was 24.58±4.68 mg/dl. Most common risk factors found during the study were absence of breast feeding (63%), Rh incompatibility (35.7%), ABO incompatibility (25%), Birth Asphyxia (14%), Sepsis (9%), GDM (9%), Preeclampsia (7%). Among the outcomes studied, 4 cases underwent mortality (7%). Of the cases that died, 2 were born preterm at 32 weeks and 35 weeks respectively. All babies had the uniform risk factor of lack of breastfeeding. Two cases had Rh incompatibility, of which one also had a positive sibling history. One case showed ABO incompatibility. 39.2% cases showed no morbidity. 53.5% cases showed morbidities, of which most commonly noted morbidities were thrombocytopenia(23%) followed by sepsis (21%) . Hypocalcaemia was found in 14.2 % cases. Conclusions: Exchange Transfusion, though a lifesaving procedure, effective in rapidly bring down bilirubin levels is not bereft of complications. Significant morbidities identified after the procedure must prompt us to be more stringent in preventive care aspects for severe neonatal jaundice.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

15. Exploring Medication and Mental Health in Epilepsy: A Cross-Sectional Study of Individuals under Therapy
Bimal Tamakuwala
Abstract
Introduction: Epilepsy is a neurological ailment that is defined by the occurrence of repeated seizures. It is a condition that impacts a large number of people globally. Gaining knowledge of the demographics, treatment patterns, and related variables is essential for the successful administration of care. The objective of this research was to examine the demographic features, drug use, mental health symptoms, and prognosis of epilepsy patients receiving therapy. Materials and Methods: We performed a cross-sectional research comprising 50 individuals with epilepsy who were receiving therapy. Structured questionnaires were used to gather data on demographics, drug utilization, adverse reactions, and mental health symptoms. The Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20) was used to evaluate symptoms related to mental health. The prognosis was classified as better, stable, worsened, or not relevant. The data were examined using descriptive statistics. Results: The research had an equal distribution of male and female participants. The majority consisted of adult individuals residing in urban regions. The majority of individuals had generalized epilepsy and had a familial predisposition to the condition. Approximately half of the individuals experienced five or fewer seizures before receiving therapy. Lamotrigine was the predominant antiepileptic medication, with 46% of individuals reporting adverse effects. There was a high incidence of mental health complaints, including headaches, reduced appetite, and disrupted sleep patterns. The prognosis exhibited variability, with 30% of cases demonstrating improvement, 40% remaining stable, and 20% experiencing deterioration. Conclusion: This research offers significant findings about the demographic characteristics, treatment behaviours, and mental health symptoms of individuals with epilepsy. Gaining insight into these aspects may assist healthcare practitioners in customizing treatment plans and support methods to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

16. A Study of Intravenous Dexmedetomidine as an Adjunct to Subarachnoid Block
Ajay Prajapati, Bansi Thakkar, Parth Pandya, Vidhi Patel, Kaushik Prajapati
Abstract
Introduction: Subarachnoid anaesthesia is a frequently used method for doing procedures on the lower abdomen and lower limbs. Dexmedetomidine, a drug that activates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, has been examined as a supplement to subarachnoid block in order to evaluate its impact on maintaining stable blood pressure during surgery and in the recovery period. Methods: A randomized controlled experiment was performed on a sample of 60 patients classified as ASA grade I or II, aged between 20 and 60 years, who were having procedures on the lower abdomen and lower limbs. The patients were assigned randomly to two groups: Group D got dexmedetomidine, whereas Group C received normal saline. Demographic information, as well as heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and respiratory rate (RR) during surgery, were documented at different intervals and analyzed. Results: There were no notable disparities between the groups in relation to demographic characteristics. The intraoperative heart rate (HR) was consistently lower in Group D compared to Group C starting from 5 minutes after the subarachnoid block, and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Group D exhibited a consistent and substantial decrease in blood pressure compared to other groups starting from 10 minutes after the subarachnoid block (p < 0.001). The statistical analysis, known as RR, did not reveal any significant differences between the groups at any time point (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The addition of dexmedetomidine to a subarachnoid block led to a significant decrease in intraoperative heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) as compared to the use of normal saline. Nevertheless, there were no notable disparities in respiratory rate across the groups. Dexmedetomidine is a valuable addition to subarachnoid anaesthesia for maintaining stable blood pressure during procedures involving the lower abdomen and lower limbs.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

17. Histopathological Pattern of Primary Ovarian Germ Cell Tumour in a Tertiary Care Centre from North East India: A Retrospective Study
Junu Devi, Manjula Choudhury, Valina Brahma, Daljeet Kaur, Jabin Musfique, Azharul Islam Laskar
Abstract
Introduction: Primary ovarian germ cell tumors are rare and a heterogenous group of neoplasms with various histological pattern. It account for for 20% of all ovarian neoplasms and most commonly seen in young female and children and clinically presents with pain abdomen, abdominal lump. Benign ovarian germ cell tumors are more common than malignant tumors which accounts for about 2.5% of all ovarian malignancies. Aim of this study is to determine the clinical presentation of germ cell tumors of ovary in relation to age, parity, symptoms and evaluate the different histomorphological patterns and frequency of various germ cell tumors. Materials and Methods: It is a hospital based retrospective cross sectional study conducted for a period of one and half year in a tertiary care centre of north east India. Study data were retrieved from the histopathology section of Department of Pathology Gauhati medical college and Hospital. All the cases were rechecked and slides were reviewed systematically for histopathological diagnosis. Results: Most commonly affected age group is 26-45 year, mean age 32.8 years. Abdominal pain with lump was most common presentation. Six (18.75%) patients were nulliparous, 18(56.25%) parous and 8(25.0%) were unmarried girls. Out of 32 germ cell tumors 27(84.38%) were benign 5(15.62%) were malignant (P<0.002). Among the 32 germ cell benign cystic teratoma 27(84.38%) was the most common benign neoplasm and mixed germ cell tumor 2(6.25%) was the most common malignant neoplasm. Conclusion: Primary ovarian germ cell tumor are uncommon, most of the tumor seen in 26 to 45 years, malignant germ cell tumor are common in younger age group. Mature teratoma is most common benign tumor and mixed germ cell tumor is most common malignant tumor and surgery is the treatment of choice.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.

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