ABSTRACT
Background: Increased COVID-19 transmission among the populace may be caused by healthcare workers (HCWs) who lack knowledge, awareness, and good preventive practices. Additionally, it may cause elevated stress levels, anxiety, poor medical judgement, and situational overestimation. Objectives: The present survey aimed to assess knowledge and risk perception regarding COVID-19 among HCWs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. Methodology: A web-based online, pre-tested questionnaire comprising 26 items was circulated via social media in April 2020 amongst HCWs in major tertiary care facilities in KP. Results: The study's results, revealing both the commendable knowledge levels among HCWs about COVID-19 and their heightened risk perception, highlight the critical need for targeted interventions to address the potential impact on self-protective behaviour and mental health within this vital workforce. This insight is important for designing strategies that not only enhance HCWs' well-being but also ensure the continued effectiveness of healthcare delivery during pandemics. The percentage mean score (PMS) of COVID-19 knowledge was 85.14±10.82. Male HCWs and those with an age older than or equal to 32 years demonstrated a higher knowledge score (85.62±11.08; P=0.032 and 87.59±7.33, P=0.021, respectively). About 76% of HCWs feared contracting COVID-19. Nearly 82% of respondents were mentally preoccupied with the pandemic and also terrified of it. 'Of these, 81% were nurses, 87% had a job experience of 6-8 years and 54.45% were frontline workers. Feelings of panic and concern about the pandemic were found to be more in HCWs who were physicians above the age of 32, and who had 3-5 years of work experience. HCWs' overall risk perception was found to be significantly different between males (7.04±2.26) and females (8.01±1.97), job experience of 6-10 years (8.04±177) with 3-5 years and younger than or equal to 2 years job experience (7.18±2.43,6.93±2.22), respectively, and between frontline HCWs (7.50±2.10) and non-frontline HCWs (6.84±2.40). Conclusion: HCWs demonstrated good knowledge about COVID-19. As the risk perception of COVID-19 among HCWs is high, it can raise concerns about their self-protective behaviour, and mental health. These issues need to be addressed.
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BACKGROUND: Cutaneous Larva Migrans (CLM) is one of the most common zoonotic dermatoses in subtropical and tropical regions and some European countries. It is caused by different types of hookworm, such as Ancylostoma braziliense, Ancylostoma caninum, and Uncinaria stenocephala. It is usually easy to diagnose, but the atypical presentation may occasionally mimic other dermatoses. CASE REPORT: A 32-year-old man presented with an extensive eczematous rash that developed during a recent vacation in Thailand. He didn't respond to antihistamines and systemic steroids. Finally, he was diagnosed with an atypical presentation of CLM and treated successfully with anthelminthic therapy. CONCLUSION: The report of an atypical presentation of CLM is crucial to increase awareness among healthcare workers, helping in early diagnosis and reducing potential psychological distress that patients may face.
ABSTRACT
This study paper's main goal is to report rare cases of skull base meningiomas that exemplify the complexities of diagnosis, therapy, and postoperative care. By describing these rare cases, we hope to advance knowledge of the clinical signs, difficulties, and prognoses of skull base meningiomas in a challenging anatomical setting. In the posterior cranial fossa, our investigation reveals a unique example of skull base meningioma that involved numerous cranial nerves and complex vasculature. A variety of visual abnormalities were present in the patient's clinical presentations, highlighting the wide range of symptoms that these tumors might cause depending on their precise positions. These cases highlight the critical importance of preoperative imaging, including high-resolution MRI and angiography, as well as the diagnostic difficulties these tumors pertain. By reporting these instances, our research adds to the body of knowledge about skull base meningiomas and offers insightful information about the nuances of their therapies. Our findings highlight the importance of individualized treatment plans, interdisciplinary cooperation, and the demand for continued study to better comprehend these convoluted tumors. Such studies are essential for advancing our knowledge of these enigmatic tumors, guiding clinical judgment, and eventually improving patient outcomes. These findings are important because they can fill information gaps, improve treatment plans, and encourage additional research in neuro-oncology. Abstract: This study presents a series of three rare cases of skull base meningiomas, emphasizing the complexities in diagnosis, treatment, and postoperative care. The patients' clinical presentations and imaging highlighted the diverse symptoms and challenges associated with these tumors, found in intricate anatomical locations. The cases underscore the crucial role of preoperative high-resolution imaging and angiography in diagnostic accuracy. Surgical intervention, guided by a multidisciplinary approach, is pivotal in managing these demanding cases. Histopathological examinations confirmed atypical meningiomas. The postoperative phases involved meticulous care to ensure optimal recovery and functional outcomes. Our findings contribute to the understanding of skull base meningiomas, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment plans and ongoing research to improve patient outcomes in neuro-oncology.
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth is a significant mental health risk for women globally. However, it remains a neglected cause, particularly in low-income countries like Pakistan. This paper explores the unique challenges faced by women in such settings, including limited access to healthcare and social support, cultural norms, and stigma surrounding mental health. The diagnosis and causes of postpartum PTSD are discussed, along with its effects on both mothers and their infants. The lack of awareness and training among healthcare professionals in recognizing and treating postpartum PTSD is highlighted as a major barrier to adequate care. To address these challenges, the paper proposes a comprehensive approach, including raising public awareness, providing mental health support and resources, and integrating postpartum mental health into medical education. Trauma-focused therapies are recommended for effective treatment. The paper concludes with the need for more research in low-income countries and emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting women with postpartum PTSD to improve their well-being and maternal and child health.
ABSTRACT
Key Clinical Message: Accidental displacement of mandibular third molars or their roots into neighboring anatomical spaces, notably the submandibular region, during extraction, is a rare but significant complication. Comprehensive preoperative assessment, meticulous surgical techniques, and precise radiographic imaging play pivotal roles in successful management. Adhering to established protocols is imperative to mitigate potential complications and ensure optimal outcomes. Abstract: In this report, we emphasize the critical importance of comprehensive preoperative preparation to tailor surgical approaches and techniques in accordance with recognized surgical principles. Oral and maxillofacial surgery often involves the extraction of impacted lower third molars, a common surgical procedure. However, this procedure can present potential complications such as hemorrhage, tissue damage, infection, alveolar osteitis, paresthesia, and mandible dislocation. Unintentional displacement of a mandibular third molar or its root fragments into adjacent anatomical areas, such as the maxillary sinus or submandibular space, is a rare intra-operative exodontia complication that is seldom documented. A 44-year-old male patient presented with complaints of pain, discomfort, and limited mouth opening. He had previously attempted to have a tooth extracted, but the procedure resulted in a misplaced tooth. A painful, indurated swelling was observed at the patient's left mandibular angle. Radiographic analyses revealed a radiopaque lesion resembling the third molar tooth root. Utilizing orthopantomography and CT images, the misplaced root in the left submandibular region was accurately located. The tooth was successfully extracted following the elevation of a lingual flap. The patient was prescribed antibiotics and painkillers for 7 days, and he reported an uneventful recovery with no complications on the eighth postoperative day. Accidental displacement of lower third molars or root fragments into neighboring anatomical areas is a rare but potentially concerning complication. Common sites of displacement include the submandibular, sublingual, and pterygomandibular spaces. Risk factors for displacement encompass improper use of surgical instruments and variations in patient anatomical characteristics. The ease of extraction can be influenced by various factors, including the degree of impaction, root structure, and dental inclination. Recommended screening examinations include panoramic radiography, intraoral periapical (PA) radiography, and occlusal radiography. Precise diagnosis and localization necessitate radiographic assessments such as CT scans and panoramic radiography. Postoperative care involves administering analgesics, antibiotics, suturing, wound irrigation, and managing potential complications like swelling, discomfort, infection, and nerve damage. Accidental displacement of lower third molars or their roots into the submandibular region is an infrequent yet potential complication. Thorough case assessment and adherence to established protocols for appropriate access, judicious bone removal, and avoiding excessive force are imperative for clinicians in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
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Natural disasters are catastrophic occurrences that can seriously harm infrastructure, inflict property damage, and even result in fatalities. Water supply and sanitation systems can be disrupted in flooded areas, raising the risk of infectious diseases. It is advised that public health responders do a disease risk assessment of such a catastrophic event to ascertain the disaster's consequences and the health requirements. This editorial provides an overview of the transmission of infectious illnesses after hydrometeorological disasters. It also discusses the effects of such catastrophes on individuals' psychological and physical health who live in disaster-prone locations.
ABSTRACT
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is a subperitoneal intrusion of endometrial tissue. Resulting endometrial nodules may develop on the uterosacral ligament, urinary tract, rectovaginal, and retrocervical areas, and less commonly in the urinary bladder, thoracic, and neural regions. Genetics, age, and environmental factors determine the progression of the disease. DIE manifests with numerous symptoms, which are similar to unrelated diseases, namely dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, urinary tract infections, and infertility. Transvaginal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and physical examination may detect and differentiate endometriosis lesions from other diseases. Its clinical management typically involves laparoscopic surgery and hormonal therapy. These are designed to improve the quality of life and to address individual reproductive goals. This pictorial essay aims to provide clinical cases to highlight the characteristic radiological findings in each diagnostic modality and in addition to elucidate the current clinical management of DIE.
