Saudi Med J
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Comparative Study
Prevalence of HBV, HCV, HIV-1, 2 and HTLV-I/II infections among blood donors in a teaching hospital in the Central region of Saudi Arabia.
Several infectious diseases are transmissible by blood transfusion, especially viral infections. The most common blood-transmitted viruses are hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). These viruses cause fatal, chronic and life-threatening disorders. The prevalence of these viruses varies by nationality and geography. The purpose of this study was to establish the current prevalence of hepatitis viruses (B and C) and human retroviruses (HIV-1, 2 and human T-lymphotropic virus type I and II, HTLV-I /II) among blood donors at King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH), Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). ⋯ This study highlights the prevalence rates of HBV and HCV among different groups. The prevalence varies from one group to another, being the lowest among Saudi and young donors. Therefore, extensive recruitment of Saudi and young donors should help ensure a long-term increase in the blood supply without jeopardizing safety.
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Disease burden and case management of bacterial meningitis among children under 5 years of age in Saudi Arabia.
This study was designed to explore the case management and disease burden of bacterial meningitis among children below the age of 5 years in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. ⋯ The study being based on a population based surveillance gave a better overview on causative organisms of meningitis emphasizing that Gram stain, serology of CSF and culture (of CSF and blood) should be used. A high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose meningitis in children. Lumbar tap should be encouraged and supported in terms of training and more authorization to apply in diagnostic tests of such conditions. Audiometric measurement is a crucial need in the assessment of meningitis cases and in the process of their follow up. This type of service is clearly missing in our system. Influential steps are to be planned to avail this service.
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Comparative Study
Tetanus experience in a public hospital in Western Saudi Arabia.
Tetanus although rare, has not been eradicated and continues to present from time to time. Early diagnosis and management may be life saving. This study aims to evaluate all patients admitted with clinical diagnosis of tetanus in King Abdul-Aziz Hospital Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the last 3 years. ⋯ Tetanus is still a problem in developing countries. It is a potentially fatal disease, without early medical intervention. Primary immunization and scheduled booster immunization are important preventive measures that have greatly reduced the incidence of tetanus.