Analysis of diagnosis announcements in Abidjan pediatric oncology unit 2 years after introduction of the African Pediatric Cancer Announcement Guideline.

INTRODUCTION: Announcing the diagnosis allows the therapeutic alliance between physicians and patients to be sealed and it prevents abandonment of treatment. To compensate for the deficit in information received by the families, the Franco-African Group of Pediatric Oncology (FAGPO) has published an "African Pediatric Cancer Announcement Guide" for the group's pediatric oncology units. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the announcements made to parents and children 2 years after the provision of this guide. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey conducted from March to July 2016. In total, 69 parents of children followed up in the pediatric oncology unit of Abidjan were interviewed regarding the characteristics of the announcement that was made to them and the information given to the sick child. RESULTS: Of all the accompanying individuals, 91% reported having benefited from the announcement made with empathy, mainly by a physician. In approximately one quarter of the cases the information had been given to a third party. The main barriers to information were: the negative experiences of parents, the medical terminology, and communication problems. The sick child was rarely informed. DISCUSSION: The information given was in accordance, in content and form, with the data from Western and African literature. The lack of information given to the child has a dual explanation: the primacy of the community over the individual advocated by African culture and the non-integration of the rights of children in the current code of ethics. CONCLUSION: The information provided could be improved by practical training of physicians in the technique of breaking bad news to patients and their families and the use of a code of ethics in accordance with the principle of autonomy.

Les complications de la circoncision au CHU de Yopougon

Circoncision masculine - méthodes

Prise en charge des vaginites dans les pays à ressources limitées d'Afrique subsaharienne. Quelle place pour l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine et prednisolone ?

Contexte : La vaginite est un motif fréquent de consultation gynécologique. Dans les pays à ressources limitées, en l'absence de laboratoires d'analyses microbiologiques des sécrétions vaginales, le traitement est prescrit sur la base de l'évaluation clinique.Objectif général : Evaluer l'efficacité de notre pratique concernant la prise en charge des vaginites en situation de vie réelle, par la prescription de l'associationternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®).Méthodologie : Nous avons réalisé, dans trois structures sanitaires d'Abidjan, une étude prospective observationnelle sur cinq mois. Elle a inclus, de façon aléatoire, 233 patientes qui ont donné leur consentement écrit et signé et qui présentaient des signes cliniques évidents de vaginites. N'ont pas été incluses les patientes enceintes et allaitantes, celles qui présentaient des co-infections, des infections sexuellement transmissibles, le VIH, une hypersensibilité ou une idiosyncrasie à l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®). Les patientes ont été divisées en deux groupes : le groupe de référence (n = 200) pour lequel une analyse microbiologique des sécrétions vaginales était effectuée 2 à 4 jours avant la mise sous traitement et le groupe contrôle (n = 33) pour qui le traitement était débuté d'emblée. Les critères d'évaluation étaient la présence des symptômes cliniques et leur cinétique d'évolution, le bilan microbiologique réalisé 10 à 14 jours après le début du traitement et la survenue d'effets indésirables liés à l'utilisation du médicament (notamment les picotements ou les irritations locales). Les tests statistiques utilisés pour la comparaison des effectifs étaient le khi-deux et le Fisher exact avec un seuil de signification de 5% (p < 0,05).Résultats et discussion : Avant l'instauration du traitement, les leucorrhées pathologiques (178/233) et le prurit vulvaire (157/233) étaient les principaux symptômes rencontrés dans les deux groupes. La prédominance des leucorrhées pathologiques était très significativement différente dans le groupe référence versus le groupe contrôle (p = 0,001).Lors de la visite de contrôle, il n'y avait pas de différence significative entre les deux groupes concernant la présence d'une récidive (p = 0,99). Ainsi l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®) pourrait représenter une option thérapeutique intéressante chez les femmes présentant des signes cliniques évidents de vaginite, en l'absence d'analyse microbiologique préalable des sécrétions vaginales. L'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®) a démontré son efficacité thérapeutique en cas de vaginite à Candida albicans (VC), de Vaginose Bactérienne (VB), de vaginite à Trichomonas vaginalis (VT), et même en cas d'infection mixte (VM). En effet il a été observé une amélioration significative et rapide (3 à 4 jours maximum) des symptômes (p = 0,001) et un faible taux de récidive biologiquement prouvée dans les deux groupes (3,4%). Durant toute la durée du traitement, les patientes n'ont déclaré aucune réaction allergique liée à l'utilisation de l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®) (picotements ou irritations locales) et 97,3% des patientes ont été globalement très satisfaites de l'utilisation de l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®).Conclusion : Dans nos pays à ressources limitées, sous-médicalisés, l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®) apparaît comme une option thérapeutique intéressante pour traiter les vaginites d'origine mycosique, parasitaire, bactériologique et mixte. Cette étude a montré que l'association ternidazole, néomycine sulfate, nystatine, prednisolone (Tergynan®) pouvait être administrée, en initiation de traitement des vaginites dès leur apparition sans besoin de procéder à des prélèvements préalables des sécrétions vaginales

[Evolution aspect of anatomy clinical lesions of urogenital fistula (UGF) in Cocody Teaching Hospital urological unity from 1990 to 2011]. / Aspect évolutif des lésions anatomo-cliniques des fistules urogénitales (FUG) dans le service d'urologie du CHU de Cocody de 1990 à 2011.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to compare anatomy pathological lesions seeing in urogenital fistula in Cocody Teaching Hospital between two decades, 1990 to 2000 and 2000 to 2010. MATERIEL AND METHOD: This survey is retrospective and carries on 20 years (January 1990 to December 2011) 190 urogenital fistulas (140 cases between 1990 and 1999; 50 from 2000 to 2011) hospitalized in our unity. Anatomy clinical characteristics of these fistulas were determined by clinical or paraclinical examination. RESULTS: Between 1990 and 1999, fistulas were classified in 20 bladder-uterine fistulas (14.29%), 16 uretro-vaginal fistulas (11.43%) and 104 bladder-vaginal fistulas (74.29%) of whom 80 isolated UGFs and 24 UGFs associated with recto-vaginal fistula. These 104 UGFs were located at: bladder neck 22 cases (21.15%), bladder trigonal 46 cases (44.23%), urethra 14 cases (13.46%). Twenty-two bladder sphincter were destroyed and represented 21.15% of fistula's bladder-vaginal fistula and 15.71% of all UGFs. The average fistula diameter was 3 cm [extremes: 1 and 12 cm]. In 22 cases (15.71%), fistula diameter was more than 10 cm. It was bladder neck and sphincter destruction. Hundred and twenty-six fistulas were isolated (90%). Only 10% (14 cases) were associated. Fistulas were primitive in 85.71% of cases (120/140), recurrent in 7 cases (7.86%) and multi-recurrent (>3 reinterventions) in 9 cases (6.43%). From 2001 to 2011, no bladder-uterine fistulas were seen, but: 6 (13.95%) isolated uretero-vaginal fistulas and 6 (13.95%) uretero-vaginal fistulas associated with bladder-vaginal fistula, 31 (62%) bladder-vaginal fistulas of whom 20 (64.52%) bladder trigonal fistulas, 6 (19.34%) retro-trigonal fistulas and 2 (6.45%) urethral fistulas. Only three (9,68%) recto-vaginal fistulas were associated. The average fistula diameter was 2 cm. The fistulas were isolated in 40 cases (80%) and associated (VVF+uretero vaginal F) in 10 cases (20%). Thirty-five cases (70%) were primitive and 10 cases (20%) recurrent of whom 5 (10%) many recurrent. Fistulas were classified in simple fistula in 7 cases (14%) and complex fistula in 43 cases (86%) CONCLUSION: UGF remained relatively frequent in Cocody Teaching Hospital, but the lesions have favorably evolved in the last decade. Simple type of fistula became more frequent than complex ones. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

[Epidemiology of otomycoses at the University Hospital of Yopougon (Abidjan-Ivory Coast)]. / Épidémiologie des otomycoses au centre hospitalier et universitaire de Yopougon (Abidjan-Côte d'Ivoire).

OBJECTIVE: Otomycosis is a fungal infection, which leads to a damage of the external auditory meatus. The disease is worldwide in distribution but is said to be more common in tropical countries. Though otomycosis presumably occurs frequently in Africa, reports on its incidence and etiology are rare from Côte d'Ivoire. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of the disease and to identify aetiological agents as well as the risk factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the Otorhinolaryngology Department of the University Teaching Hospital of Yopougon from September 2007 to February 2008. For laboratory investigation, specimens were collected by means of a sterile swab. Samples were inoculated on Sabouraud's Dextrose Agar with and without antibiotics and incubated at 30°C for a period of 1 to 2 weeks. Identification was performed by direct microscopic examination on Cotton Blue Mount preparation and slide culture examination was used for differentiation of morphology. Biotyping was performed using Carbohydrate Fermentation tests, Carbohydrate Assimilation Tests (galerie Api 20 CAux TM - Sanofi Pasteur), Germ tube Test, detection of chlamydospore formation on corn meal agar. RESULTS: A total of 110 patients (sex-ratio=1.2) with suspected cases of otomycosis were investigated. Itching, otalgia, and hypoacusis were the symptoms reported by the patients and the apparent signs were debris in the ear, scabs and inflammation of the external auditory meatus. Of these, 88 cases (80%) were confirmed specifically of mycotic etiology on the basis of positive culture with 92 isolates consisting of yeasts (65.2%) and moulds (34.8%). The predominant etiological agents were Aspergillus flavus (28.4%), Candida guilliermondii (19.3%) and Candida parapsilosis (18.2%). The predisposing factors included previous otological pathology (P=0.010), frequent scratching of the external ear canal and use of ear drops (RR=3.47; IC 95%=1.3-9.27). CONCLUSION: This study revealed the great prevalence of otomycosis in Abidjan, some predisposing factors and the aetiological agents. Management of otomycosis must include mycological examination for diagnosis and information for changing behaviour patterns leading to infection.

Connaissances et utilisation de la contraception d'urgence chez les adolescentes

Objectifs. Evaluer l'etendue des connaissances; les attitudes et la pratique de la contraception d'urgence chez les jeunes filles eleves en Cote d'Ivoire; ainsi que les facteurs influencant sa connaissance et sa perception. Methode. Il s'agissait d'une etude transversale descriptive realisee au Lycee Classique d'Abidjan; un etablissement d'enseignement general. Seules les filles de terminale ont ete selectionnees car; a la fois les plus exposees aux grossesses precoces et ayant une activite sexuelle averee. La collecte des donnees s'est deroulee sur un mois; en mars 2010. Resultats. Cinquatre-quatre pour cent (54%) ignoraient l'existence de la contraception d'urgence. Parmi celles qui en avaient entendu parler; 41;7% ne possedaient guere de connaissances precises sur la methode de contraception d'urgence. Les sources d'informations formelles etaient associees a une bonne connaissance de cette methode. Globalement; 78;1% avaient une attitude favorable. Cependant il existait une crainte chez certaines participantes de voir cette methode se substituer au preservatif. Son usage etait faible pour 5;5% des enquetes. Le premier obstaclea son utilisation semble etre du au manque d'information du public. Conclusion. Il existe un besoin urgent de sensibilisation des jeunes ivoiriennes a la contraception d'urgence; et surtout aux methodes disponibles; ainsi qu'au delai correct d'emploi. Ainsi; elles pourront y avoir recours beaucoup plus facilement

[Hepatitis B: cross-sectional study of knowledge and immunization among students at University of Cocody, Ivory Coast]. / Connaissance et couverture vaccinale contre l'hépatite virale B (HVB) : étude transversale parmi les étudiants de l'université de Cocody, Côte d'Ivoire.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate knowledge about hepatitis B and vaccination coverage among students at Cocody's University, Ivory Coast. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the academic year 2005-2006 (2557 students). Parameters were collected by interview using a survey chart. Factors influencing knowledge and vaccination against hepatitis B were analyzed by logistic regression. RESULTS: The majority of students (n=1174, 69.4% [95% CI 68-71]) knew about hepatitis B. Only 17.5% and 26.1% of students respectively were aware of sexual and blood transmission. None of the students were aware of maternal-fetal transmission. Factors associated with knowledge of hepatitis B were enrollment in health sciences (Odds Ratio=24.19 [95% CI 8.65-76.63]) and having a scholarship (Odds Ratio=2.34 [95% CI 1.54-3.56]). Vaccination coverage against hepatitis B was low (Odds Ratio=3.7% [95% CI 3-4]). Factors associated with vaccination were: knowledge of hepatitis B (Odds Ratio=6.83 [95% CI 4.57-10.27]), enrollment in health sciences (Odds Ratio=3.59 [95% CI 2.60-4.96]), marriage (Odds Ratio=2.04 [95% CI 1.13-3.64]) and having a scholarship (Odds Ratio=1.60 [95% CI 1.09-2.35]). CONCLUSION: Knowledge and vaccination coverage against hepatitis B among students at Cocody's University is low. Students should be given information about hepatitis B and access to free vaccination. Students enrolled in health sciences should be vaccinated before admission because of specific risks of contamination, for themselves and for their patients.

[Central corneal thickness and potential error in Goldmann applanation tonometry of the Black African patient suffering from primary open-angle glaucoma: 340 eyes surveyed]. / Epaisseur cornéenne centrale et erreur potentielle de la tonométrie à aplanation de Goldmann chez le patient noir africain atteint de glaucome primitif à angle ouvert. A propos de 340 yeux.

INTRODUCTION: Goldmann applanation tonometry is the reference method for measuring IOP. This tonometric model is influenced by corneal thickness, which varies according to race. Most studies have been conducted on Caucasian or Black American subjects. Studies on Black African subjects being rare, the goal of our study was to measure the central corneal thickness and its impact on Goldmann applanation tonometry on Black African subjects suffering from primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Our retrospective study focused on POAG eyes. The central corneal thickness was measured using an ultrasonic pachymeter (Quentel Médical). RESULTS: 340 eyes from 170 patients made up the sample. The mean age of our patients was 44.4 +/- 12.7 years, with a mean central corneal thickness of 519.6 +/- 32.6 microm. Of our patients, 57.6% had a central corneal thickness less than 527 microm, 30.6% between 527 and 560 microm, and 11.8% had a central corneal thickness greater than 560 microm. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Compared to Black American and Caucasian subjects, the Black African glaucoma subject differs in the early age of glaucoma onset and the thinness of the cornea. Corneal thickness evaluation induces a potential error in IOP measurement on Black African glaucoma subjects. On the Black African subject, Goldmann tonometry is therefore affected by an error rate estimated at 69.4% (57.6% underevaluation and 11.8% overevaluation). Pachymetry is therefore a necessity for the Black African glaucoma patient requiring IOP adjustment.

[Detection by RT-PCR of the 1st cases of Astrovirus in human stools in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire]. / Détection par RT-pCR des premiers cas d'Astrovirus dans les selles humaines à Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.

Viral gastroenteritis are a problem of public health because of the high rate of morbidity and mortality, particularly in children. Among the etiologic agents, human Astroviruses are the third agents most often incriminated after Rotaviruses and Caliciviruses. Symptoms of gastroenteritis caused by Astroviruses are generally moderated compared with those observed with Rotaviruses and rarely involve hospitalization. In sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Côte d'Ivoire, the majority of viral gastroenteritis is attributed to Rotavirus with rates varying from 20 to 26%. No study on the circulation of human Astroviruses has been carried out in Côte d'Ivoire. Our objective was to detect human Astroviruses in the diarrhoeal stools in Abidjan. Seventy-two samples of human diarrhoeal stools were collected in ambulatory patients. This population was made up of 44 patients from 0 to 15 and 28 patients over 15 years old. The concentration of the viral particles of the samples was followed by the extraction of the RNA by the modified method of Boom. The extracted RNA were amplified by RT-PCR by using specific primers targeting a portion of the 3' end of the open reading frame ORF la of the genome of human Astroviruses. The amplified fragment was 192 pb. The genome of human Astroviruses was detected in 3 stools out of the 72 samples. That is a frequency of 4%. Among these 3 stools, 2 came from 4 month and 3 year-old children and the 3rd stool came from a 33 year-old patient. For the first time this survey has pointed out the circulation of human Astroviruses in the Côte d'Ivoire population. This survey also showed that human Astroviruses could be found in children as well as in adults.

[Smoking in school: Cocody, Abidjan]. / Tabagisme en milieu scolaire dans la commune de Cocody à Abidjan.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study on smoking in school was conducted in public, private, and international secondary schools in Cocody, Abidjan, between March 18 and May 4, 2003. Data were collected with an anonymous individual questionnaire from 1000 pupils. RESULTS: Pupils smoked for the first time at an early age, 13.9 years on average. The prevalence of smoking was 15.9%, with a strong proportion of girls who smoked (10.6%). Smoking was particularly prevalent in private and international schools. Many pupils (37.7%) stated their teachers also smoked in the school and in their presence. Only 13.8% of parents knew their children smoked. Favoring factors observed were the influence of smoking parents (26.5%), influence of smoking peers (67.6%). Two motivations were predominant: curiosity and imitation. Most pupils bought their cigarettes with their pocket money (62.7%). Most smokers smoked in night clubs and bars (74.3%) and drank alcohol (69%). Less than two-thirds of the pupils were knowledgeable about the consequences of smoking: basically they knew about lung diseases (62.9%), and particularly lung cancer (63% of lung diseases). The majority of the pupils were aware of the nicotine content of cigarettes (52.8%).

[In vivo sensitivity of Plasmodium falciparum to amino-4-quinolines and sulfadoxine pyrimethamine in Agou (Ivory Coast)]. / Sensibilité in vivo de Plasmodium falciparum aux amino-4 quinoléines et à la sulfadoxine pyriméthamine à Agou (Côte d'Ivoire).

A comparative study of the in vivo sensitivity of Plasmodium falciparum to amodiaquine versus chloroquine has been made among children in Agou (south Côte d'Ivoire). In case of resistance to these drugs, the association of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine was administered and followed by a J14 checking. We have noticed: (1) 8.47% of amodiaquine resistance versus 36.96% of chloroquine resistance (all these resistances are from type II), (2) a good clinical efficiency of the 4 amino quinolines. Only 1.69% of the subjects having resistant stocks to amodiaquine have gone feverish down to J7 whereas 10.47% of subjects have clinically resisted to chloroquine, (3) a good tolerance of drugs and an excellent clinical and parasitological efficiency of the second intention treatment. These data are in favour of using first the 4 amino quinolines (particularly the amodiaquine) in the treatment of simple bout of malaria to Plasmodium falciparum in this region. In case of resistance to these drugs, we recommend the combination sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine.