Tropical doctor
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We assessed the involvement of vitamin A deficiency (VAD) and anaemia as co-morbidities associated with severe forms of protein-energy malnutrition in hospitalized children. In a descriptive case series study of 57 children, one clinical case of xerophthalmia was diagnosed: 44.0% had levels of serum retinol <20 µg/dL and 88.0% had Hb <11 g/dL, of whom 30.0% had haemoglobin levels below 7.0 g/dL.
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The relative rarity of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) in the developing world makes its diagnosis a challenge to many physicians. This study audits the management of HPS at a tertiary hospital in South Africa, with a view to defining its regional pattern. This is a retrospective review of records of all patients (n = 63) managed for HPS over an eight-year period (2002-2010). ⋯ The overall complication rate was 14.3% and the mortality rate was 0%. Despite the rarity of HPS in the Third World, the outcome of its management is favourable. However, the sensitivity of abdominal ultrasound for diagnosing HPS is low.
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We attempt to describe the clinical features of venomous snake bites in southern Iran. In this study the complication rate has been markedly reduced compared with other developing countries. The availability of antivenom at primary health-care centres and rapid transportation facilities may change the morbidity associated with snake bites.