| Publisher: Sultan Qaboos University, Oman
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Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.371  Citation Impact (citeScore): 1 Number of Followers: 0  Open Access journalISSN (Print) 2075-051X - ISSN (Online) 2075-0528 Published by Sultan Qaboos University, Oman  [4 journals]
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- Monkeypox (mpox) Outbreak
Authors: Salah T Al Awaidy, Faryal Khamis, Malik Sallam, Ramy M Ghazy, Hassan Zaraket
Pages: 1 - 4
Abstract: NONE
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.8.2022.046
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Effects of Waterpipe on Oral Health Status
Authors: Ricardo Grillo, Mehdi Khemiss, Yuri Slusarenko da Silva
Pages: 5 - 12
Abstract: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the cytotoxic and genotoxic impacts of waterpipe smoking on oral health. The databases MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and Dimensions were searched to find studies evaluating whether waterpipe smokers exhibited any cytotoxic or genotoxic effects on their oral cells compared to non-smokers, with regard to mouth neoplasms. Particularly, changes in DNA methylation and p53 expression were assessed. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were adopted for the systematic review. Review Manager was utilised for statistical analysis with a significance level at P <0.05. To assess the grades of the included articles, a risk of bias analysis was summarised. A forest plot, including some of the included articles included, was created regarding the different grades. A total of 20 studies were included in this review. The results showed that waterpipe smoking has cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on oral cells, with a risk difference of 0.16. Although the published articles are few in number, all confirm the devastating effects of waterpipe smoking related to the carcinogenicity. Waterpipe smoking is harmful to oral health. It causes a series of detrimental cellular and genetic modifications such as acanthosis, epithelial dysplasia and hyperparakeratosis. In addition, waterpipe smoke contains several carcinogenic compounds. As it releases many harmful organic compounds, waterpipe smoking increases the incidence of oral cancer. Keywords: Mouth Neoplasms; Oral Health; Smoking Waterpipes; Tobacco Use; Toxicity Tests.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.6.2022.043
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Social Relationships and Onset of Functional Limitation among Older Adults
with Chronic Conditions
Authors: Dandan Jiao, Kumi Watanabe, Yuko Sawada, Munenori Matsumoto, Ammara Ajmal, Emiko Tanaka, Taeko Watanabe, Yuka Sugisawa, Sumio Ito, Rika Okumura, Yuriko Kawasaki, Tokie Anme
Pages: 13 - 21
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to examine the longitudinal association between social relationships and physical functioning among community-dwelling older adults with chronic conditions. Methods: Self-reported questionnaires were distributed and collected between 2014 and 2017 from participants ≥65 years old. The Index of Social Interaction was used to evaluate social relationships and the instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) subscale of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence was used to examine functional status. Results: A total of 422 participants (190 males and 232 females) were included in the final analysis. High social relationships demonstrated significant adverse effects (odds ratio [OR] = 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.64–0.93) on the decline of IADL in the overall sample, particularly for females (OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.55–0.93) but not as much for males (P = 0.131). Conclusion: This finding suggests that functional limitation was influenced by social relationships among disabled older adults and the influence of social relationships on functional limitation differed based on gender. Keywords: Interpersonal Relations; Functional Status; Gender; Aged; Chronic Disease; Longitudinal Studies; Health Behaviour; Japan.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.5.2022.035
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Patterns of Movement Performance among Japanese Children and Effects of
Parenting Practices
Authors: Zhu Zhu, Cunyoen Kim, Dandan Jiao, Xiang Li, Ammara Ajmal, Munenori Matsumoto, Yuko Sawada, Toshiyuki Kasai, Taeko Watanabe, Etsuko Tomisaki, Emiko Tanaka, Sumio Ito, Rika Okumura, Tokie Anme
Pages: 22 - 31
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to examine the long-term effects of parenting practice during preschool years on children’s movement performance in primary school. Methods: This three-year longitudinal study included 225 children aged 3–6-years-old. Parents reported baseline parenting practice and evaluated children’s movement performance three years later. Latent class analysis was used to explore latent classes of movement performance. A post hoc test was used to identify the characteristics of different patterns. Finally, adjusted multinomial logistic regression models were used to test the influence of parenting practice on identified patterns of movement performance. Results: Children in this study were grouped into three movement performance patterns, labelled as ‘least difficulties’ (n = 131, 58.2%), ‘low back pain’ (n = 68, 30.2%) and ‘most difficulties’ (n = 26, 11.6%). After controlling for age, gender, having siblings or not, family structure, standardised body mass index, sleep condition and dietary habits, the researchers found that if parents played games with children frequently, the children would have a 0.287 times lower probability of being in the ‘low back pain’ class (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.105–0.783). In addition, if parents take children to meet peers of a similar age frequently, children would have a 0.339 times lower probability of being in ‘most difficulties’ class (95% CI: 0.139–0.825). Conclusion: Primary healthcare providers should pay careful attention to children with movement difficulties. The study provides longitudinal evidence to support the applicability of positive parenting practice in early childhood to prevent children’s movement difficulties. Keywords: Movement; Parenting; Latent Class Analysis; Child; Longitudinal Study; Japan.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.008
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Evolution of Minimally Invasive Adrenal Surgery at a Tertiary Care Centre
in Oman
Authors: Najeeb AbuDraz, Mohamed S Al-Masruri, Ghalib Al Badaai, Yamam Al-Shamari, Omayma Elshafie, Khurram M Siddiqui
Pages: 32 - 35
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to review the case records and report the outcomes of open and laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) cases. Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent adrenal surgery from January 2010 to December 2020 at Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. Demographic details, indications, surgical approaches, intra-operative data, complications, final pathology and outcome at the last follow-up were analysed. Results: A total of 52 patients underwent 61 adrenalectomies; six patients had a bilateral procedure while three patients had to undergo revision surgery resulting in a total of 55 individual procedures. Open adrenalectomy (OA) was performed on 11 patients and 44 patients underwent LA. Most patients (n = 27) were obese with a body mass index >30. Functional adenoma was excised in 36 patients with final diagnosis of Conn’s syndrome in 15, pheochromocytoma in 13 and Cushing’s syndrome in nine patients. Five patients had surgery for oncological indications. Non-functional adenoma was excised in 13 patients, with a mean size of 8.9 cm (range: 4–15 cm). The mean duration of surgery was less in laparoscopic procedure compared to open (199 versus 246 minutes). The mean estimated blood loss in LA was significantly less (108 versus 450 mL; P <0.05). Out of 55 procedures, only one patient developed Clavien-Dindo grade 2 complication. Conclusion: Both LA and OA were safely performed at the researchers’ institution. There is a growing trend for LA, and with experience, the duration of surgery and estimated mean blood loss are demonstrating a positive trend. Keywords: Adrenalectomy; Laparoscopic Surgical Procedure; Adrenal Gland Neoplasia; Adrenal Cancer; Pheochromocytoma; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.4.2022.031
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis
Authors: Mahmood M Al Awfi, Salim K Al Rahbi
Pages: 36 - 41
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to retrospectively describe the clinicopathological pattern and management experience of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis in women receiving care at the Royal Hospital, a tertiary care centre in Oman. The study then compared the researchers’ experience with the current literature trends. Methods: The data of patients from January 2012 to December 2017 were reviewed retrospectively, after receiving ethical approval from the Centre of Studies and Research. Results: This retrospective study included 64 patients were confirmed to have idiopathic granulomatous mastitis. All patients were in the premenopausal phase, with only one being nulliparous. Mastitis was the most common clinical diagnosis; furthermore, half of the patients had a palpable mass. Most patients had received antibiotics during the span of their treatment. Drainage procedure was done in 73% of the patients, whereas excisional procedure was done for 38.7%. Only 52.4% of patients were able to achieve complete clinical resolution within six months of follow-up. Conclusion: There is no standardised management algorithm due to the paucity of high-level evidence comparing different modalities. However, steroids, methotrexate and surgery are all considered to be effective and acceptable treatments. Moreover, current literature tends towards multimodality treatments planned tailored case-to-case based on the clinical context and patients’ preference. Keywords: Granulomatous Mastitis; Mastitis; Breast Diseases; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.4.2022.030
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Comparison of Tissue Adhesive Glue with Subcuticular Absorbable Suture for
Skin Closure Following Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Aditya Musham, Evangeline MK Samuel, Ashok K Sahoo, Elamurugan TP, Manwar AS
Pages: 42 - 47
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to compare the skin closure time, postoperative pain and the scar outcome between tissue adhesive and sub-cuticular sutures in thyroid surgery. Methods: This study was conducted in Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, a tertiary care hospital in India from March 2017 to December 2019. Adult patients undergoing thyroid surgery were included while those with previous neck surgery, history of keloids/hypertrophic scars and those undergoing concomitant neck dissections were excluded. Following platysma closure, patients were randomised into two groups (tissue adhesive and subcuticular sutures) using the Serially Numbered Opaque Sealed Envelopes technique. A sample size of 64 in each group was calculated for this prospective, single-blinded and randomised controlled trial. The primary outcome was the skin closure time. The secondary outcomes were postoperative pain at 24 hours and scar scoring at 1st and 3rd postoperative month. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Results: A total sample of 124 patients were included in this study, with 61 patients assigned to the suture group and 63 assigned to the tissue adhesive group. The median skin closure time and postoperative pain was significantly lower in the tissue adhesive group as compared to the suture group (P <0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in scar outcome at the 1st or 3rd months between both groups (P = 0.088 and 0.137, respectively). There were no wound-related complications in either group. When a subgroup analysis was conducted, no difference was seen in the scar outcome or wound-related complications in patients with comorbidities. There were no instances of allergic contact dermatitis to the tissue adhesive. Conclusion: The use of tissue adhesive leads to lower operative time and less postoperative pain in thyroid surgeries. The scar outcome is comparable between tissue adhesives and subcuticular sutures. Keywords: Thyroidectomy; Wound Closure Technique; Tissue Adhesives; Sutures; India.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.005
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Acquired Uterine Vascular Anomaly
Authors: Kulsoom Fatima, Mustafa BA Zubairi, Muhammad Azeemuddin, Raza Sayani
Pages: 48 - 54
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to retrospectively review imaging findings and the outcomes of uterine artery embolisation (UAE) in symptomatic uterine vascular anomalies (UVA). Methods: This study included a total of 15 patients with acquired UVA admitted to the Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, from 2010 to 2020. These patients were evaluated using ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, either alone or in combination. All patients had a history of dilatation and curettage or uterine instrumentation and underwent angiography and embolisation of the uterine arteries. The primary outcome post embolisation was assessed clinically and/or in combination with ultrasound. Post-procedure pregnancies were also recorded. Results: Non-invasive imaging was abnormal in all patients; however, this pre-intervention imaging was unable to accurately classify the type of vascular anomaly, except in the case of a pseudoaneurysm. Conventional angiography showed uterine artery hyperaemia in six patients, arteriovenous malformation in seven patients and pseudoaneurysm in two patients. The technical success rate was 100% and no repeat embolisation was needed. The follow-up ultrasound in 12 patients revealed a resolution of the abnormal findings, while the remaining three were found to be normal on clinical follow-up. Seven patients (46.7%) had a normal pregnancy 15.7 months after the procedure (range: 4–28 months). Conclusions: UAE is a safe and effective management option for intractable severe bleeding in patients with UVA post instrumentation and it was found that the procedure does not impair future pregnancy. Keywords: Uterine Artery Embolization; Pseudoaneurysm; Arteriovenous Malformation; Ultrasonography; X-Ray Computed Tomography; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Pakistan.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.006
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Radiologic Assessment of Orbital Dimensions among Omani Subjects
Authors: Eiman Al Ajmi, Marwa Al Subhi, Mallak Al Maamari, Humoud Al Dhuhli, Srinivasa R Sirasanagandla
Pages: 55 - 60
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to determine the orbital dimensions of Omani subjects who had been referred for computed tomography (CT) of the brain at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman. Good knowledge of the normal orbital dimensions is clinically essential for successful surgical outcomes. Racial, ethnic and regional variations in the orbital dimensions have been reported. Methods: A total of 273 Omani patients referred for CT scans of the brain were retrospectively evaluated using an electronic medical records database. The orbital dimensions were recorded using both axial and sagittal planes of CT images. Results: The mean orbital index (OI) was found to be 83.25 ± 4.83 mm and the prevalent orbital type was categorised as the mesoseme. The mean orbital index was 83.34 ± 5.05 mm and 83.16 ± 4.57 mm in males and females, respectively, with their difference not being statistically significant (P = 0.76). However, a statistically significant association was observed between the right and left orbits regarding horizontal distance (P <0.05) and vertical distance (P <0.01) of orbit and OI (P <0.05). No significant difference between the OI and age groups was observed in males and females. The mean interorbital distance and interzygomatic distance were found to be 19.45 ± 1.52 mm and 95.59 ± 4.08 mm, respectively. These parameters were significantly higher in males (P <0.05). Conclusion: Results of the present study provide reference values of orbital dimensions in Omani subjects. Mesoseme, a hallmark of Caucasian people, is discovered to be the prevalent orbital type of Omani subjects. Keywords: Computed tomography; Ethnicity; Orbit; Biological Variation; Hypertelorism; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.3.2022.023
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Epidemiology of Common Ocular Manifestations among Patients on
Haemodialysis in West Bank, Palestine
Authors: Yousef Shanti, Hamza Hamayel, Anas Yasin, Abdul-Raheem Abu Shanab, Osama Hroub, Zakaria Hamdan, Mujahed Shraim
Pages: 61 - 67
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of ocular manifestations and associated factors in patients on haemodialysis. Methods: A cross-sectional study of patients on haemodialysis from a haemodialysis unit in Nablus, Palestine, was conducted. Medical examination for ocular manifestations (intraocular pressure, cataract, retinal changes and optic neuropathy) was performed using Tono-Pen, portable slit-lamp and indirect ophthalmoscope. Predictor variables were age, gender, smoking, medical comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, ischaemic heart disease [IHD], peripheral arterial disease [PAD]) and use of antiplatelet or anti-coagulation medications. Results: A total of 191 patients were included in this study. The prevalence of any ocular manifestation in at least one eye was 68%. The most common ocular manifestations were retinal changes (58%) and cataract (41%). The prevalence of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and NPDR or PDR was 51%, 16% and 65%. Two patients had PDR in one eye and NPDR in the other, and therefore, they were counted only once making the total for this category 71 rather than 73 patients. An increase in age by one year increased the odds of having cataract by 1.10 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06–1.14). Patients with diabetes had higher odds of having cataract (odds ratio [OR] = 7.43, 95% CI: 3.26–16.95) and any retinal changes (OR = 109.48, 95% CI: 33.85–354.05) than patients without diabetes. Patients with diabetes and IHD or PAD had higher odds of having NPDR than those with diabetes without IHD or PAD (OR = 7.62, 95% CI: 2.07–28.03). Conclusion: Retinal changes and cataract are common ocular manifestations among patients on haemodialysis. The findings emphasise the importance of periodic screening for ocular problems in this vulnerable population, especially older patients and those with diabetes, to prevent visual impartment and associated disability. Keywords: Kidney Failure, Chronic; Renal Dialysis; Eye Diseases; Eye Manifestations; Cross-Sectional Studies; Palestine.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.4.2022.032
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- The Association of Human Leukocyte Antigens Complex with Type 1 Diabetes
in the Omani Population
Authors: Mohammed Al-Balushi, Samiya Al-Badi, Saif Al-Yaarubi, Hamad Al-Riyami, Azza Al-Shidhani, Shaima Al-Hinai, Ali Alshirawi, Sidgi Hasson, Elias Said, Ali Al-Jabri, Aliya Al Ansari
Pages: 68 - 75
Abstract: Objectives: Identification of the high risk alleles, genotypes and haplotypes of the human leukocyte antigens (HLA) in different populations is beneficial for understanding their roles in type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis and intervention practices. This study aimed to identify T1D-associated HLA gene alleles in the Omani population. Methods: The present case-control study included 73 diabetic seropositive children (mean age 9.08 ± 3.27 years) attending the paediatric clinic at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Muscat, Oman, and 110 healthy controls. HLA–A, -B, -C, -DRB1 and -DQB1 genes were genotyped using a sequence-specific primer polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR). Results: Two HLA class I alleles (B*08, B*58) and three class II alleles (DQB1*02, DRB1*03 and DRB1*04) were associated with T1D susceptibility, while one class I (B*51) and three class II (DQB1*05, DQB1*06 and DRB1*16) alleles were associated with T1D protection. HLA-DRB1*03 and DQB1*02 alleles showed the strongest risk association among all alleles. Six DRB1 residues (E9, S11, S13, Y30, V70 and K71) were significantly associated with T1D susceptibility. Heterozygous genotypes, HLA-DRB1*03/*04 and DQB1*02/*03 were significantly associated with T1D susceptibility (P <0.0001, odds ratio [OR] = 63.21 and P = 0.02, OR = 3.63, respectively). Furthermore, a significant combined action of DRB1*03-DQB1*02 haplotype in T1D risk (P = 0.000176, OR = 15) and DRB1*16-DQB1*05 haplotype in protection (P = 0.0312, OR = 0.48) was detected. Conclusion: Known HLA class II gene alleles are associated with T1D in Omani children. Keywords: Type 1 Diabetes; Human Leukocyte Antigens; Genotype; Alleles; Residues; Haplotypes, Case-Control Study; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.2.2022.016
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Cilia Ultrastructure Associated with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia in Omani
Patients
Authors: Kawther Al Adawi, Taher Baomar, Marwa Al Riyami, Nawal Al Shamli, Khoula Al Shidhani, Aliya Al Ansari, Hussein Al Kindi
Pages: 76 - 80
Abstract: Objectives: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a disorder affecting the structure and function of the motile cilia of the respiratory system. Transmission electron microscopy is one method that can be used to examine ciliary ultrastructure in airway biopsies. Although the role of ultrastructural findings in PCD has been described in the literature, this role has not been well-studied in the Middle East or, specifically, Oman. This study aimed to describe ultrastructural features in Omani patients with high suspicion of PCD. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 129 adequate airway biopsies obtained from Omani patients attending pulmonary clinics at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman, from 2010 to 2020 who were suspected of having PCD. Results: Ciliary ultrastructural abnormalities in the current study population were outer dynein arm (ODA) associated with inner dynein arm (IDA) defects (8%), microtubular disorganisation associated with IDA defect (5%) and isolated ODA defect (2%). Most of the biopsies showed normal ultrastructure (82%). Conclusion: In Omani patients suspected to have PCD, normal ultrastructure was the most common feature. Keywords: Cilia; Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia; Biopsy; Transmission Electron Microscopy; Ultrastructure; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.4.2022.029
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Establishing Trimester-Specific Haemoglobin A1c Reference Intervals in
Pregnant Women
Authors: John Punnose, Rajeev K Malhotra, Komal Sukhija, Rashika M Rijhwani, Asha Sharma, Naimaa Choudhary, Prassan Vij, Renuka Joseph
Pages: 81 - 89
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to define trimester-specific haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) reference intervals in healthy, pregnant South Asian women. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at St. Stephen’s Hospital, Delhi, India, between January 2011 and December 2016. Healthy pregnant women were compared to a control group of healthy non-pregnant women. Pregnant participants had term deliveries of babies with appropriate gestational weights. The HbA1c levels were calculated in terms of non-parametric 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles for women in first (T1), second (T2) and third (T3) trimester groups. Statistical tests were used to obtain the normal HbA1c reference values and were considered significant when P <0.05. Results: This study included a total of 1,357 healthy pregnant women and a control group of 67 healthy, non-pregnant women. Pregnant women had a median HbA1c of 4.8% (4–5.5%) or 32 mmol/mol (20–39 mmol/mol); non-pregnant women had a median HbA1c of 5.1% (4–5.7%) or 29 mmol/mol (20–37 mmol/mol; P <0.001). The HbA1c levels for the T1, T2 and T3 groups were 4.9% (4.1–5.5%) or 30 mmol/mol (21–37 mmol/mol), 4.8% (4.5–5.3%) or 29 mmol/mol (20–34 mmol/ mol) and 4.8% (3.9–5.6%) or 29 mmol/mol (19–38 mmol/mol), respectively. The HbA1c values were significant when comparing T1 versus T2 (P <0.001), T1 versus T3 (P = 0.002) and T1 versus the non-pregnant group (P = 0.001). However, T2 versus T3 was not significant (P = 0.111). Conclusion: Compared to non-pregnant women, HbA1c levels were lower in pregnant women, despite women in the T2 and T3 groups having a higher body mass index than the women in the T1 and non-pregnant groups. Further research is recommended to understand the factors responsible and validate these findings. Keywords: Asian; Gestational Diabetes; HbA1c; Pregnancy Trimesters; Reference Values; India.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.3.2022.022
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Traditional and Complimentary
Medicine in Oman
Authors: Hassan Al-Riyami, Ahmed Al-Maskari, Sunil K Nadar, Mohammed Almaskari
Pages: 90 - 98
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding traditional medicine (TM) in Oman and examine the factors that necessitate its use. Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among the general population from November 2019 and March 2020. All Omani nationals above the age of 18 were eligible to be enrolled. The questionnaire consisted of questions on the knowledge, attitudes and use regarding traditional medicine in Oman. Results: A total of 598 responses to the questionnaire were received (response rate: 85.4%), of which 552 were deemed complete. Most responses were received from males (62.5%) and the sample had a mean age of 33.6 ± 7.7 years. A majority of the respondents (90%) were aware of the different types of TM in Oman; a high percentage (81.5%) felt that it was effective. Most (67.8%) had tried at least one method of TM use. Individuals who were older had tried TM compared to those who had not (34.5 ± 7.8 years versus 31.8 ± 7.2 years; P <0.001); in addition, more males than females (72.2% versus 27.8%; P <0.001) and those with full-time employment than those without had tried TM (84.2% versus 14.2%; P <0.001). Herbal medications (65.8%) and traditional massage (60.4%) were the most common forms of TM practice. Among females, herbal medications (69.2%) and massage (63.5%) are most often used; among males, cupping (65.2%) followed by herbal medications (64.4%) and massage (59.3%) were used more often. Notably, back pain (74.3%) was the most common condition for which TM was reportedly used, with only a small percentage (8.3%) reporting any concomitant side-effects. Conclusion: There is widespread use of TM among Oman’s urban population. An improved understanding of their benefits will facilitate their incorporation into modern health care services. Keywords: Traditional Medicine; Complementary Medicine; Knowledge; Attitude; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.007
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Simple Arthroscopic Technique to Perform Retrograde Drilling for
Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Condyles with the Use of Anterior Cruciate
Ligament Guide
Authors: Nikolaos Koukoulias, Angelo V Vasiliadis, Theofilos Dimitriadis
Pages: 99 - 103
Abstract: This technical note describes a simple arthroscopic technique that was introduced without the need for further staff during an operation to address osteonecrosis of the medial femoral condyle. A 2.4 mm pin was positioned through the sleeve of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tibial guide and marked with a steri-strip at its body, aiming at 5–10 mm distance between the tips of guide and the pin. The steri-strip serves as a marker and as a stop for inadvertent violation of the cartilage. The tip of the ACL was positioned just over the bone lesion, while the marked 2.4 mm pin was inserted through the ACL tibial guide from anterior surface of the femur. A stab incision was made and without advancing the sleeve to the bone, the pin was drilled to the marked position while cartilage integrity was confirmed arthroscopically. This arthroscopic technique is simple, fast and effective and is performed without the need for special equipment. Keywords: Osteonecrosis; Knee Joint; Arthroscopy; Decompression; Greece.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.8.2022.047
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Loeffler's Syndrome and Multifocal Cutaneous Larva Migrans
Authors: Abheek Sil, Dibyendu B Bhanja, Atanu Chandra, Surajit K Biswas
Pages: 104 - 108
Abstract: Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a zoonotic skin disease that is frequently diagnosed in tropical and subtropical countries. Loeffler’s syndrome (LS) is a transient respiratory ailment characterised by pulmonary infiltration along with peripheral eosinophilia and commonly follows parasitic infestation. We report a 33-year-old male patient who presented to a tertiary care hospital in eastern India in 2019 with LS that was attributed secondary to multifocal CLM. Treatment with seven-day course of oral albendazole (400 mg daily) coupled with nebulisation (levosalbutamol and budesonide) led to complete resolution of cutaneous lesions and respiratory complaints within two weeks. There was complete resolution of pulmonary pathology at four-weeks follow-up. Keywords: Loeffler's syndrome; Peripheral Eosinophilia; Cutaneous Larva Migrans; Helminths; Albendazole; Case Report; India.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.5.2022.036
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis
Authors: Anila Vasireddy, Kanthilatha Pai, Varsha M Shetty, Raviraja V Acharya, Ramamoorthi Kusugodlu, Akhila Doddamani, Sharath P Madhyastha
Pages: 109 - 112
Abstract: Scrub typhus is a disease endemic to the Indian subcontinent caused by the obligate intracellular pleomorphic organism, Orientia tsutsugamushi. Scrub typhus, among other acute febrile illnesses, manifests as prodromal symptoms of fever, malaise, myalgia and anorexia followed by a distinct maculopapular rash, hepatosplenomegaly and lymphadenopathy. We report the case of a patient presenting to tertiary care hospital in southern India in 2021 who developed a rare cutaneous vasculitis secondary to infection with Orientia tsutsugamushi. After performing the Weil-Felix test, a diagnostic titre of >1:640 against OXK was obtained. Furthermore, a skin biopsy was carried out which confirmed the diagnosis of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. The patient was treated with doxycycline and showed drastic improvement in his symptoms. Keywords: Scrub Typhus, Rickettsia; Vasculitis; Doxycycline; India.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.011
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Urethral Caruncle with Associated Renoureteric Anomalies
Authors: Sohail Ahmad, Akash B Pati, Santosh K Mahalik, Kanishka Das
Pages: 113 - 115
Abstract: A urethral caruncle is a rare differential diagnosis for a prolapsed mass at the urethral meatus. The aetiopathogenesis of this entity is unclear. We report a three-year-old female patient who presented to a tertiary care teaching hospital in India in 2019 with intermittent bleeding from the introitus for a month. Investigations revealed a urethral caruncle and associated renal anomalies which has not been described in the previous literature. The patient was discharged with a prescription of a Sitz bath twice daily and advised to apply betamethasone (0.1%) cream locally once daily. There was a significant improvement after six weeks of therapy; at two-years follow-up, the lesion had disappeared completely. Keywords: Crossed Fused Ectopia; Case Report; India.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.009
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- A Central Venous Catheter Line Misadventure
Authors: Edwin Stephen, Maitha Al Asmi, Thekra Al Hadhrami, Mohsin Al Riyami, Mohammed Al Badri, Hanan Al Mawaali, Khalifa Al Wahaibi
Pages: 116 - 118
Abstract: We report a 32-year-old female patient who was referred to a tertiary care hospital in Muscat, Oman, in 2021 with an iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) that presented as a neck swelling which developed few weeks after an attempt of central venous catheterisation through the right internal jugular vein. The fistula was corrected surgically with a successful outcome. AVF is an abnormal communication between an artery and vein which can occur as a congenital anomaly, after trauma or iatrogenic following central venous catheter or endovenous thermal ablation. Keywords: Arteriovenous Fistula; Iatrogenic Disease; Central Venous Catheter; Critically Ill; Intensive Care Unit; Case Report; Oman.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.1.2022.010
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Progressive Dilatation as a Successful Treatment for Y Duplication of
Urethra
Authors: Akash B Pati, Subrat K Sahoo, Bikasha B Tripathy
Pages: 119 - 121
Abstract: Duplication of urethra is a rare congenital anomaly; a Y-shaped urethral duplication is the rarest variant and lacks a standardised treatment plan. We report a nine-year-old male patient with a Y-duplication of urethra diagnosed during neonatal age who presented to a tertiary care teaching hospital in India in 2018. The patient had undergone a vesicostomy on the seventh day of life for passing urine per anus and was lost to follow-up thereafter. At eight years of age, there was a failed attempt at disconnection of the duplicated urethral tract from the anus after colostomy. The patient was managed successfully by progressive dilatation of the orthotopic urethra, which required multiple stages, followed by separation of the urethra from the rectum. At three-years follow-up the patient was continent and asymptomatic. Keywords: Urethral Duplication; Case Report; India.
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.9.2021.138
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Imaging Features of Dyke-Davidoff-Masson Syndrome
Authors: Asma AlHatmi, Talal Almashaikhi, Eiman Al Ajmi
Pages: 122 - 124
Abstract: NONE
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.9.2022.055
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Large Intraosseous Haemangioma of the Sacral Vertebra
Authors: Nerbadyswari Deep, Sudipta Mohakud, Mantu Jain, Suprava Naik, Manas Baisakh
Pages: 125 - 126
Abstract: NONE
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.3.2022.024
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Bullous Allergic Contact Dermatitis Caused by Potassium Dichromate
Authors: Francisco J Navarro-Triviño, Álvaro Prados-Carmona, Juan Pablo Velasco-Amador, Ricardo Ruiz-Villaverde
Pages: 127 - 128
Abstract: NONE
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.5.2022.037
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
- Long-Standing Lymphocutaneous Sporotrichosis
Authors: Israel Perez-López, Ricardo Ruiz-Villaverde
Pages: 129 - 130
Abstract: NONE
PubDate: 2023-02-23
DOI: 10.18295/squmj.8.2022.048
Issue No: Vol. 23, No. 1 (2023)
