Pattern of cutaneous tuberculosis among children and adolescent

Cutaneous tuberculosis is one of the most subtle and difficult diagnoses for dermatologists practicing in developing countries. It has widely varied manifestations and it is important to know the spectrum of manifestations in children and adolescent. Sixty cases (age<19 years) of cutaneous tuberculosis were included in this one period study. The diagnosis was based on clinical examination, tuberculin reaction, histopathology, and response to antitubercular therapy. Histopahology revealed 38.3% had skin tuberculosis and 61.7% had diseases other than tuberculosis. Among 23 histopathologically proved cutaneous tuberculosis, 47.8% had scrofuloderma, 34.8% had lupus vulgaris and 17.4% had tuberculosis verrucosa cutis (TVC). Most common site for scrofuloderma lesions was neck and that for lupus vulgaris and TVC was lower limb. Cutaneous tuberculosis in children continues to be an important cause of morbidity, there is a high likelihood of internal involvement, especially in patients with scrofuloderma. A search is required for more sensitive, economic diagnostic tools. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v38i3.14335 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2012; 38(3): 94-97 (December)

Comparison of genes as target for molecular diagnosis of peste des petits ruminants in goats

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) are an acute viral disease of sheep and goats. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential for successful control. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), a molecular diagnostic test based on amplification of the gene target is more sensitive than other tests. The study was to find an efficient primer set and structural gene, which would be more specific and sensitive for detecting PPR virus (PPRV) in field samples. Six primer sets for six structural genes of PPR were used. Primer against NP gene (np3/np4) was specific and sensitive. To ensure efficient amplification and detection of viruses in field samples, more than one set of primers should be used and F and N gene specific primers were the most suitable. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v29i2.14343 Bangl. vet. 2012. Vol. 29, No. 2, 56-62

Effects of Nishyinda, black pepper and cinnamon extract as growth promoter in broilers

An extract of nishyinda (Vitex negundo) leaves, black pepper (Piper nigrum) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) (polyherbal extract) were used as growth promoter in broilers. A total of 20 day-old broiler chicks were purchased and after seven days of acclimatization randomly divided into two equal groups. No vaccination schedule was practised and no antibiotics were added in rations. Group A served as control while group B was supplemented with polyherbal extract 1 mL/litre in drinking water. Weekly body weight gain up to six weeks was measured and blood tests were performed at 21 and 42 days. Polyherbal extract significantly (P<0.05) improved weight gain. There was no change in haematological parameters. It can be concluded that the polyherbal extract was safe as a growth promoter in broiler production without adverse effects on chicken health. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bvet.v29i2.14345 Bangl. vet. 2012. Vol. 29, No. 2, 69-77

Evaluation of adenosine deaminase activity for diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion

Background: Tuberculosis is a leading cause of worldwide preventable morbidity and mortality from an infectious agent. A defi nite diagnosis of tubercular pleural effusion can be diffi cult to make because of low sensitivity and/or specifi city of noninvasive traditional diagnostic tools. This study is done to fi nd out a sensitive and specifi c marker for early diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion. Materials and Methods: One hundred and three pleural effusion cases were enrolled in the study, out of which 62 were tuberculous pleural effusion cases and 49 were non-tuberculous cases. Results: Considering 40 U/L as a cut off value for Adenosine deaminase assay level, the test result was positive in 58 out of 62 patients of tuberculosis indicating sensitivity of the test as 94%; however, among 41 non-tuberculous patients, 5 presented ADA activity level more than 40U/L, which lowers the specifi city of the test to 88%. ADA levels were signifi cantly higher in tuberculous than in non tuberculous cases (P value <0.001). Conclusion: It may be concluded that ADA levels are signifi cantly high in patients with tuberculous pleural effusion compared to that in non tuberculous group. Sensitivity (94%) and specifi city (88%) of the test in tuberculous pleural effusions are very high, when cut off value set at 40U/L. The result indicated that the analysis of ADA levels in pleural effusion constitute a very useful marker for the diagnosis of TPE which, in addition, can be made quickly in a non- invasive way. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 367-373 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7860

Severe haemolytic anaemia due to ingestion of naphthalene (mothball) containing coconut oil

Naphthalene, a widely used industrial and household chemical, has rarely been an agent of poisoning worldwide. Severe haemolysis from naphthalene poisoning is rare and can be a challenge to clinicians. We report a 22-year-old female, who accidentally ingested naphthalene mixed coconut oil and got admitted with recurrent vomiting, headache and passage of dark urine. Severe intravascular haemolysis with hypotension and neutrophilic leukocytosis was detected. She was treated with red blood cell transfusions, intravenous saline infusion and ascorbic acid.

Discovery of potential targets of selenomethionine-mediated chemoprevention in colorectal carcinoma mouse model using proteomics analysis

Despite some controversy, selenomethionine (SeMet)-mediated protection against colorectal cancer (CRC) might be a very promising non-cytotoxic option. However, responsive molecular targets and underlying mechanisms of SeMet-mediated chemoprevention are still unclear. Our aim was to discover new targets of SeMet-mediated chemoprevention in CRC using proteomics analysis. We found dietary SeMet supplementation before carcinoma initiation effectively suppressed polyp incidence and dysplastic lesions without any adverse effects. To determine chemopreventive targets of SeMet, we employed two-dimensional gel electrophoresis-based proteomics analysis in CRC mouse model. Pretreatment with SeMet apparently modulated the expression of 30 proteins with functions in major processes like chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis as discovered through pathway analysis with Pathway Studio software. We validated four proteins selected from pathway analysis including prohibitin, purine nucleoside phosphorylase, annexin 2 and c-reactive protein by immunohistochemistry. 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), a known oxidative stress marker, was decreased by SeMet treatment in CRC mice as seen by immunohistochemistry. Further network analysis was done among these new four validated proteins, 8-OHdG and colorectal cancer. These four proteins found by proteomics analysis might be considered as potential chemopreventive biomarkers of SeMet against colon cancer and can help develop and improve approaches in preventive, therapeutic and prognostic aspects.

Histomorphological study of germinal centre of vermiform appendix in Bangladeshi cadaver

The study was done to find out the number of germinal centre in human vermiform appendix of Bangladeshi people to magnify the knowledge regarding the diverse number of germinal centre of human vermiform appendix in our population in the department of Anatomy, Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh from July 2006 to June 2007. Total 40 appendices were collected for histological study of different age and sex during postmortem examination in the autopsy laboratory of department of Forensic Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College. This cross sectional study was done by convenient sampling technique. For convenience of differentiating the changes in number of germinal centre of vermiform appendix in relation to age and sex, findings were classified in four groups, Group A up to 20 years, Group B 21-35 years, Group C 36-55 years and Group D 56-70 years. In the present study the number of germinal centre was highest in Group B (52.38%) but in Group D it was nil. Here mean number of germinal centre in male (1.05) were more than in female (0.8).

Wilson's disease in children with blindness: an atypical presentation

Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disease affecting copper metabolism causing copper induced organ damage. Common organs involved are liver and central nervous system. But RBC, eye, kidneys and bone may also be affected. In WD main defect remains in copper transporter protein p type ATPase resulting from gene mutation in chromosome 13. Neurological manifestations in WD develop due to deposition of copper in different brain areas like basal ganglia, cerebral cortex, corticospinal and corticobulbar pathway. Different types of neurological manifestations develop in WD but visual impairment is very rare. A 14 years old boy of WD presented to us with blindness, tremor and slurred speech along with end stage liver disease. Blindness was thought to be due to optic neuropathy which reversed after drug treatment.

Outcome of adult acute lymphoblastic leukaemia following induction chemotherapy with modified MRC UKALL XII/ECOG E2993 protocol

Cure rates for adult acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in developing countries are significantly lower because of problems unique to these countries. Recent studies have reported complete response rates for any induction regimen of more than 90% in adult ALL patients. This study was conducted to evaluate the response rate of induction chemotherapy in adult ALL patients in the Department of Haematology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, from January 2007 to December 2008. In this observational study, 35 newly diagnosed ALL patients classified either as L1/L2 according to French-American-British (FAB) classification, aged between 15 to 60 years were assigned for induction therapy with modified MRC UKALL XII/ECOG E2993 protocol. But ultimately 30 patients completed therapy and available for statistical analysis. Among the studied 30 cases 12(40%) patients after phase 1 and overall 24 (80%) patients after phase 2 induction therapy, achieved morphologic complete remission (CR). After phase 2 therapy 6 (20%) patients fell in the group of non responders (NR) as the blast percentage was > or = 5% at the time of bone marrow evaluation. This study shows the response rates in adult ALL with induction therapy slightly below the anticipated response rates of developed countries which may be due to little modification of the original protocol.

Plasma total homocysteine is not associated with peripheral neuropathy in a groups Bangladeshi type 2 diabetic subjects

Aims: The present study was undertaken to explore the relationship of plasma homocysteine in the pathogenesis of neuropathy in diabetic patients.Subjects and Methods: Forty two type 2 diabetic patients [22 with neuropathy (DN group) and 20 without neuropathy (DNN group)], age range between 35-70 years had relatively controlled glycemia and duration of diabetes 7-15 years, were studied. Motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities and action potential amplitudes of peripheral nerves were determined by following standard protocol. HbA1c was estimated by modified HPLC (BIO-RAD Variant, USA). Serum C-peptide was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbentassay (ELISA), plasma total homocysteine by Fluorescent Polarization Immunoassay (FPIA). Results: Age, BMI and blood pressure of the study subjects were. Duration of diabetes between DN and DNN groups was comparable. DN group had significantly higher fasting glucose levels (9.8±3.8, mmol/l) compared to the DNN group (6.9±1.8, p=0.004). This trend was also reflected in the HbA1c level: 8.7± 2.1 vs 7.2±1.6 in DN group and DNN group respectively (p=0.009). The two diabetic groups had relatively higher absolute C-peptide level compared to the controls (p=ns). DN and DNN groups had significantly higher plasma homocysteine level compared to the Controls. But between the two diabetic groups no significant difference was observed. Ulnar and peroneal motor nerve conduction velocities and compound muscle action potentials in the diabetic neuropathy group significantly lower compared to diabetic counterpart and the controls. Ulnar and sural sensory nerve conduction velocities and action potentials were significantly lower in the diabetic neuropathy group compared to the diabetic counterpart and the controls. Plasma homocysteine did not show any correlation with nerve conduction velocities  and action potential amplitudes.Conclusions: The data concluded that (i) Diabetic neuropathy may not  be related to hyperhomocysteinemia in type 2 diabetic patients of Bangladeshi origin; (ii) Hyperglycemia, even at milder level, is related to neuronal dysfunction in these subjects; and (ii) Hyperinsulinemia don't seem to be prerequisite for neuropathy in these subjects. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i4.12607 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 04 Oct’12  

Factors affecting the first service conception rate of cows in smallholder dairy farms in Bangladesh

The successful outcome of an insemination is a combination of both male and female fertility-linked factors. We investigated the first service conception rate of cows at artificial insemination (AI) in the smallholder dairy farms in Bangladesh. Frozen straws were prepared from ejaculates of Bos indicus (n = 7) and Bos indicus × Bos taurus (n = 7) AI bulls. Fertility was determined from 6101 first services in cows that were performed by 18 technicians in four regions between April 2004 and March 2005. Pregnancy was diagnosed by rectal palpation between 60 and 90 days post-insemination. The Asian version of Artificial Insemination Database Application (AIDA ASIA) was used for bulls-, cows- and AI-related data recording, and later retrieved for analysis. The mean ± SD number of inseminations performed from individual bulls and their conception rates were 436.0 ± 21.6 and 50.7 ± 1.9%, respectively. Logistic regression demonstrated body condition scores (BCS), heat detection signs, months of AI and their interactions had greatest effects (odds ratios: 1.24-16.65, p < 0.04-0.001) on first service conception rate in cows. Fertility differed (p < 0.02-0.001) between the regions, previous calving months, months of AI, BCS, parity and heat detection signs of cows. Inseminations based on mounting activity (n = 2352), genital discharge (n = 3263) and restlessness and/or other signs (n = 486) yielded a conception rate of 53.6%, 48.8% and 50.1%, respectively (p < 0.05). Conception rate between technicians ranged between 43.4% and 58.6% (p < 0.05). The days interval from calving to first service (overall mean ± SD = 153.4 ± 80.6) had relationship (p < 0.001) with BCS, months of previous calving and parity of the cows. Fertility at AI in smallholder farms can be improved by training farmers on nutrition and reproductive management of the cows.

Sedative and anxiolytic effects of the methanolic extract of Leea indica (Burm. f.) Merr. leaf

The sedative and anxiolytic potential of Leea indica (Burm. f.) Merr., a Bangladeshi tribal medicinal plant was studied for the first time. The crude methanol extract of L. indica leaves was evaluated for its central nervous system (CNS) depressant effect using rodent behavioral models, such as hole cross, open field and thiopental sodium induced sleeping time tests for its sedative properties and an elevated plus-maze (EPM) test for its anxiolytic potential, respectively. The methanol extract of L. indica at doses of 200 mg/kg, p.o. and 400 mg/kg, p.o., displayed a dose dependent suppression of motor activity, exploratory behavior (in hole cross and open field tests) and prolongation of thiopental induced sleeping time in mice; the highest CNS depressant effect was shown at a dose of 400 mg/kg, p.o. In the EPM test, both dose of methanol extract significantly (p < 0.01) increased exploration to and time spent by the treated mice in EPM open arms in a dose dependent manner. These results provide in vivo evidence that leaves of L. indica in general have significant sedative and anxiolytic effects. However, these results may rationalize the scientific basis for use of this plant in traditional medicine for treatment of anxiety and related disorders.

Weight of uterus in bangladeshi cadaver

This cross sectional descriptive study was done to see the weight of uterus in Bangladeshi cadavers to increase the knowledge regarding variational anatomy in our country. Sixty post mortem specimens containing uterus, uterine tube, ureter and surrounding structures were collected by non random or purposive sampling technique from cadavers of different groups and fixed in 10% formol-saline solution. This study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy of Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh from July 2006 to June 2007. Gross and fine dissection was carried out to study the weight of uterus. In this study our findings were compared with those of the references. Maximum weight of the uterus was found in age group B (13 to 45 years). It is about 51.35 ± 17.95 gm.

To evaluate the extent of awareness about hazards of blood transfusion among the blood recipients

This cross-sectional, observational study was carried out among the blood receiving patients conducted in the Department of Transfusion Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from April 2008 to August 2009, over 126 purposively selected, to evaluate the extent of awareness about hazards of blood transfusion among the blood recipient. In this study 74.1% of male and 73.3% of female respondents had correct knowledge of blood transfusion (p>0.05). In literate group 85(91.4%) had knowledge about blood donation and transfusion compared to 8(8.6%) in illiterate group with significant statistical difference (p=0.001). Different misconception and lack of awareness about safe blood transfusion is present among people receiving blood and blood products. Illiterate persons have significant less level of knowledge about safe blood transfusion. So the number of educational programs on blood-donation should be expanded and transmitted to encourage possible receivers to take blood from nonprofessional volunteer donor and to carry out relevant screening tests before receiving blood products. Furthermore, they should know that all measures besides screening tests are implemented by blood banks to ensure that blood donation is safe for donors and that transfusion of the donated blood is safe for recipients.

Coronary angiographic profile in bangladeshi patients with metabolic syndrome and ischemic heart disease

The metabolic syndrome, which is characterized by a constellation of fasting hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL cholesterol, hypertension, and/or abdominal obesity, is a risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) and cardiovascular events. We evaluated interrelationships between angiographic CAD and the metabolic syndrome, in 478 patients who were referred for coronary angiography to evaluate suspected myocardial ischemia in the department of cardiology of BSMMU between June 2007 and May 2008. We applied the criteria for the metabolic syndrome proposed by ATP III guideline. Study populations were divided into two groups on the basis of presence or absence of metabolic syndrome. Age was similar in both groups. Body mass index (BMI) was higher (26.22 ± 1.94 vs. 22.07 ± 1.55) in metabolic syndrome group (p ≤ 0.0001). All parameters, waist circumference (103.16 ± 10.21 vs. 91.45 ± 7.61) cm, blood pressure both systolic (141.34 ± 21.49 vs. 127.94 ± 13.01) and diastolic (86.8 5 ± 8.42 vs. 79.28 ± 7.77) mm of Hg, serum triglyceride (248.32 ± 77.88 vs. 128.35 ± 19.00)mg/dl, fasting blood glucose (125.40 ± 22.86 vs. 95.65 ± 10.63)mg/dl were significantly higher in metabolic syndrome group (p value=0.0001), whereas HDL (33.10 ± 6.55 vs. 39.30 ± 6.17)mg/dl was lower (p value = 0.0001). More subjects in metabolic syndrome were having type B (55.60% vs. 31.00%) and type C (9.50% vs. 2.70%) lesion as compared to non-metabolic syndrome group. Involvement of left main artery was more (4.80% vs. 0.90%) in metabolic syndrome group. Metabolic syndrome has primary predictive ability for CAD. A metabolic profile should form part of the risk assessment in all patients with coronary disease, not just those who are obese.

Chronic mastitis is associated with altered ovarian follicle development in dairy cattle

Connection between mastitis and fertility is multifaceted; therefore, several aspects need more elucidation. In particular, the aim was to investigate if naturally occurring chronic mastitis has an effect on ovarian function. At the time of slaughter, a milk sample and both ovaries were collected from 68 cows. The presence and intensity of chronic mastitis was diagnosed by the combined evaluation of bacteriological examination and somatic cell count of the milk of each individual quarter according to the measures of the National Mastitis Council. Animals were divided into 4 groups characterized by a low (n=15), mild (n=14), intense (n=19), or severe (n=16) degree of infection. A count of visible follicles on each ovary was followed by a quantitative analysis of microscopic traits on a selected group of animals (n=16). The latter included the classification and count of the entire preantral follicle population, and the morphometric analysis of the vascular bed extension and connective stroma in the cortical region. Finally, the expression of growth and differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) was studied. The number of follicles with diameters ranging from 1 to 3 mm and 4 to 7 mm was not affected by the degree of infection. A significant effect of the degree of udder infection was observed on the number of follicles with a diameter larger than 8 mm. Furthermore, the intensity of mastitis had no effect on the number of primordial and primary follicles, but severely affected cows showed a lower number of secondary follicles (0.5±0.1 vs. 0.2±0.03). Quantitative analysis demonstrated a decrease in the density of blood vessels (6.30±1.08 vs. 4.68±0.28) expressed as ratio of vascular bed/total area) and a higher incidence of fibrous stroma (1.60±0.99 vs. 6.04±3.08 expressed as ratio of connective tissue/total area) in the cortical area of the most affected animals. Finally, the level of GDF-9 protein within the oocytes of different follicle size was lower in the animals with the severe form of chronic mastitis (1.34±0.05 vs. 0.78±0.21 expressed as arbitrary units). In conclusion, decreased fertility of cows with chronic mastitis takes place through an effect on the ovary altering the dynamics of folliculogenesis. Within the ovary, this implies a reduction of the vascular bed and an increase in the fibrotic tissue together with a direct effect on oocyte-specific factors as GDF-9, all of which are essential regulatory elements of folliculogenesis.

EFFECT OF PROBIOTICS AND ANTIBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTATION ON BODY WEIGHT AND HAEMATO-BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN BROILERS

The study was carried out to know the effects of probiotics (Proetxin® Boost, Novartis Bangladesh Ltd.) and antibiotic (oxytetracycline-Renamycin®, Renata Animal Health) on growth performances and haemato-biochemical parameters of "Shaver Star Bro" broiler chickens during September and October 2003. A total of 20, day old broilers were randomly selected and assigned into four equal groups n = 5) as A, B, C and D. Group A was considered as control group fed with commercial ration while groups B, C and D were fed with commercial ration with the addition of 200 mg probiotics / liter drinking water, 100 mg probiotics and 50 mg antibiotic (oxytetracycline- Renamycin®) / liter drinking water and 100 mg antibiotic (oxytetracycline- Renamycin®) / liter drinking water respectively up to 35 days of age. The results showed that the body weight gains differed significantly (p < 0.05) at the 2nd, 4th and 5th weeks of age in different treatment groups. The meat yield not differed significantly (p > 0.05). The drumstick, wing differed significantly (p < 0.01) and spleen weight differed at p < 0.05 among different groups. The mean haemato-biochemical values of Hb, ESR, PCV, heterophil, eosinophil, basophil, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, SGPT and SGOT were differed significantly (p < 0.01) in different groups. The present findings suggest that supplementation of probiotics has significant effect on growth performance and certain haemato-biochemical parameters of broiler chickens as compared to antibiotic supplementation.

CLINICAL AND LABORATORY DIAGNOSES OF NEWCASTLE AND INFECTIOUS BURSAL DISEASES OF CHICKENS

A comparative study was conducted to compare the disease diagnostic parameters (clinical signs & postmortem findings, organism isolation, serological test and molecular method) used to diagnose the Newcastle disease (ND) and infectious bursal disease (IBD) during the period from March 2009 to February 2010 in the laboratory of the Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh. A total of 187 sick and dead chickens (63 broilers and 124 layers) of different ages (1 week to >15 weeks) were collected from 12 selective poultry farms (4 broilers and 8 layers) of Mymensingh and Gazipur districts. Clinically, 7 (14.89%) of 63 affected broiler and 27 (30.68%) of 124 affected layer chickens were diagnosed as Newcastle disease (ND) whereas, 11 (23.4%) of 63 affected broiler and 6 (4.82%) of the 124 affected layer birds were diagnosed as IBD on the basis of clinical history, clinical signs and postmortem findings. Virus isolation from field samples was performed by inoculating each suspected sample into 10-day-old chicken embryos. Out of 34 ND suspected field samples, 26 (5 broilers and 21 layers) were positive for NDV isolation and 11 (8 broilers and 3 layers) of 17 IBD suspected field samples, were positive for IBDV isolation. For confirmatory diagnosis, virus detection was confirmed by serological tests (HI and AGID) and RT-PCR assay. Out of 34 clinically diagnosed ND field samples, 20 (5 broiler & 15 layer) were positive by RT-PCR assay and 15 (10 broiler & 5 layer) of 17 IBD suspected field samples, were positive by both AGIDT and RT-PCR assay. Of the 26 HA positive NDV suspected AF, 19 (4 broilers and 15 layers) were positive by both HI & RT-PCR assay whereas, 10 (7 broilers and 3 layers) of 11 IBDV isolation positive tissue suspension were positive by both AGIDT & RT-PCR assay in the laboratory. Therefore, it may be concluded that serological (HI & AGIDT) and molecular (RT-PCR) techniques which allow rapid identification of most of samples are the reliable, sensitive, specific and more accurate methods to detect the viruses for the confirmatory diagnosis of diseases.DOI = http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v8i2.11196 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2010). 8 (2) : 131-140 

CLINICAL AND LABORATORY DIAGNOSES OF COMMON BACTERIAL DISEASES OF BROILER AND LAYER CHICKENS

The study was undertaken with a view to compare clinical and laboratory diagnoses of various bacterial diseases of poultry during the period from March 2009 to February 2010 in the laboratory of the Dept. of Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh. A total of 135 sick and dead chickens (47 broilers and 88 layers) were collected from 12 different poultry farms (4 broilers and 8 layers) of Mymensingh and Gazipur districts which were subjected for clinical followed by laboratory diagnosis. Clinical diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical history, clinical signs and postmortem findings of the affected birds whereas; confirmatory diagnosis was made by using cultural examination, Gram’s staining and different biochemical tests. In this study, out of 47 broilers, 16 (34%) chickens were clinically diagnosed as colibacillosis, 11 (23.40%) as salmonellosis and 2 (4.25%) as fowl cholera. In the same way, out of 88 layer chickens, 28 (31.82%) were diagnosed as colibacillosis, 16 (18.18%) as salmonellosis and 11 (12.50%) as fowl cholera. In laboratory, out of 47 suspected broiler chickens, 12 (25.53%) chickens were diagnosed as colibacillosis, 7 (14.89%) as salmonellosis and 0 (0%) as fowl cholera. Correspondingly of the 88 layer chickens 22 (25%) were diagnosed as colibacillosis, 11 (13.64%) as salmonellosis and 8 (9.09%) as fowl cholera. So the findings concluded that clinical diagnosis is not always accurate like laboratory diagnosis because in most cases clinical history, clinical signs and post-mortem lesions of different bacterial diseases including mixed infections are almost similar to other related diseases and it is recommended to confirm laboratory diagnosis before treatment of the diseases.DOI = http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v8i2.11188 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2010). 8 (2) : 107-115 

Congenital hypertrichosis (Were Wolf Syndrome): a case report

Hypertrichosis is abnormal increase in body hair, when it becomes extensive known as Were Wolf Syndrome. Any part of body can be affected and body hairs are longer and darker. Hairs may be of any type like lanugo, vellous or terminal. It may be present since birth or may occur later in life. A 8 years old boy was admitted in our hospital with excess body hair, he was diagnosed as a case of Were Wolf syndrome after excluding possible acquired causes of hypertrichosis. He had history of delayed developmental milestone and has been suffering from epilepsy. He was treated with developmental stimulation and anti epileptic drug. Then he was discharged after proper counseling.

Evaluation of PCR with culture for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem in most developing countries. The present study was carried out among 100 clinically suspected pulmonary TB patients. One hundred sputum specimens were collected one from each of the suspects attending DOT'S corner of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based method detecting IS6110 sequence present in all Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains using sputum samples in comparison to culture on Lowenstein-Jensen mediums. The PCR was done using primers mtb1 & mtb2 which commonly target an insertion sequence of the organism (IS6110). Out of 100 samples, 18 (18%) showed PCR positive, whereas culture in Lowenstein-Jensen media were positive in 19(19%). In PCR 1 was false negative but none was false positive. In present study, sensitivity and specificity of PCR found 94.74% and 100% respectively. Analyzing the findings of the present study, it can be concluded that the PCR technique is a rapid and alternative method of culture on Lowenstein-Jensen medium for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. In the present study, only presence or absence of M. tuberculosis was determined.

Thyroid hormone status in apparently healthy elderly persons

Thyroid disorders are frequent in elderly population and difficult to recognize because of their atypical presentation, and the absence of classic signs and symptoms. Nonspecific symptoms, even in the absence of thyroid dysfunction, are common in this age group, including fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, failure to rehabilitate, and difficult to concentrate. Symptoms of aging can be confused easily with hypothyroidism. The interpretation of thyroid function tests is also cumbersome in aged individuals because of the difficulty in differentiating physiologic age-associated changes from alterations secondary to acute or chronic non-thyroidal illness. In the present study, a total 100 subjects were included. Subjects were divided into two groups: Group I - Control (n=50) and Group II - Case (n=50). Fifty apparently healthy young adults were taken as control (Group I) and 50 apparently healthy elderly subjects were included in case (Group II). Group I was subdivided into two groups- Group IA: young male (n=25) and Group IB: young female (n=25). Group II was also subdivided into two groups - Group IIA: elderly male (n=25) and Group IIB: elderly female (n=25). All the subjects were selected from the local community of Mymensingh Sadar, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh and Community Based Medical College, Bangladesh, Mymensingh. In the present study, the difference of mean serum T3 concentration between Group I (control) and Group II (elderly subjects) was not found to be significant (p>0.05). Significant difference in serum TSH concentration between Group IA and Group IIA was to be found (p<0.001). The difference of mean serum T4 concentration between Group IB and Group IIB was not found significant (p>0.05). Significant difference in mean serum TSH concentration between Group IB and Group IIB was to be found (p<0.001).

Proteinuria is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke among diabetic patients

This study was done to assess the relationship between proteinuria and ischemic stroke in subjects with diabetes mellitus, and to determine whether proteinuria is an independent risk factor for stroke. This comparative study was conducted in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital from January 2009 to June 2010. It was done to establish the relationship between proteinuria (Microalbuminuria) and ischemic stroke among diabetic patients. Other risk factors were also assessed. Patients were divided in Group A - diabetic patients with ischemic stroke (n=50) and Group B diabetic patients without stroke (n=50). Mean age of the Group A & B were 60.16±8.33 and 57.19±7.73 years (p=0.068). Mean Blood sugar (2 hours after Break Fast) was 14.68±4.32mmol/L in Group A and 14.75±4.02mmol/L in Group B (p>0.05). Albumin Creatinine ratio was abnormal in 84.0% in Group A and 22.0% in Group A (p=0.001) [Odds ratio (95%CI) = 18.61 (6.78-51.09)]. Logistic regression analysis has also shown that microalbuminuria (ACR) is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke (p=0.001), [Odds ratio (95%CI) = 19.811(5.915-66.348)]. In diabetic patients increased urinary protein is a risk factor for stroke. Estimation of urinary protein (Microalbuminuria) may be used as a predictor for ischemic stroke in patients with diabetes.

Botanicals to control soft rot bacteria of potato

Extracts from eleven different plant species such as jute (Corchorus capsularis L.), cheerota (Swertia chiraita Ham.), chatim (Alstonia scholaris L.), mander (Erythrina variegata), bael (Aegle marmelos L.), marigold (Tagetes erecta), onion (Allium cepa), garlic (Allium sativum L.), neem (Azadiracta indica), lime (Citrus aurantifolia), and turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) were tested for antibacterial activity against potato soft rot bacteria, E. carotovora subsp. carotovora (Ecc) P-138, under in vitro and storage conditions. Previously, Ecc P-138 was identified as the most aggressive soft rot bacterium in Bangladeshi potatoes. Of the 11 different plant extracts, only extracts from dried jute leaves and cheerota significantly inhibited growth of Ecc P-138 in vitro. Finally, both plant extracts were tested to control the soft rot disease of potato tuber under storage conditions. In a 22-week storage condition, the treated potatoes were significantly more protected against the soft rot infection than those of untreated samples in terms of infection rate and weight loss. The jute leaf extracts showed more pronounced inhibitory effects on Ecc-138 growth both in in vitro and storage experiments.