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Papers by Meseret Workineh

Research paper thumbnail of Research Article Establishment of Normal Reference Intervals for CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+ to CD8+ Ratio of T Lymphocytes in HIV Negative Adults from University of

Copyright © 2014 Addisu Gize et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative... more Copyright © 2014 Addisu Gize et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Background. Reference values for the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+ to CD8+ ratio T lymphocyte subsets are adopted from textbooks. But for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients, correct interpretations of the laboratory results from normal reference interval aremandatory.This studywas, therefore, planned to establish normal reference interval for T lymphocytes subset count and CD4+ to CD8+ ratio.Methods.A cross-sectional study was conducted on apparently healthy adult individuals who visited voluntary counseling andHIV testing clinic Gondar University Hospital fromApril toMay, 2013.Whole blood was analyzed using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (BD FACS, San Jose, CA) machine to enumerate the T-cell subpopulations. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Author ’ s response to reviews Title : Vitamin D deficiency among newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients and their household contacts : a comparative cross-sectional study Authors

Research paper thumbnail of Role Of Vitamin-D Supplementation In TB/HIV Co-Infected Patients

Infection and Drug Resistance, 2020

Objective: This review aimed to assess the role of vitamin D supplementation on the decrement of ... more Objective: This review aimed to assess the role of vitamin D supplementation on the decrement of mortality and morbidity rate among tuberculosis (TB)/human immune deficiency virus (HIV) co-infected clients. Method: Pub Med, google scholar and google search were accessed to find out all document to describe this review article. Results: Nowadays TB/HIV co-infection has become a major global concern, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Mycobacterium tuberculosis and HIV infections are coendemic and more susceptible to the progression of TB. Immunosuppression associated with HIV is a strong risk factor for the reactivation of latent TB to the active form. Immune cells like macrophages recognized Mycobacterium tuberculosis through TLR2/1, and it increases the expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and CYP27B1. The synthesis of 1,25dihydroxy vitamin D promotes VDR-mediated transactivation of the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin and the killing of intracellular Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Cathelicidins have a direct antimicrobial effect through membrane disruption. Besides, it has also antiviral effects via inhibition of retrovirus (HIV) replication. In fact, as some studies showed, there was a lower induction of cathelicidin in monocytes who have low vitamin D levels. Conclusion: Therefore, vitamin D supplementation can be directly involved in the reduction of TB/HIV co-infection and its progression.

Research paper thumbnail of Anemia and thrombocytopenia in the cohort of HIV-infected adults in northwest Ethiopia: a facility-based cross-sectional study

EJIFCC, 2018

Background Anemia and thrombocytopenia are frequent hematological abnormalities in patients with ... more Background Anemia and thrombocytopenia are frequent hematological abnormalities in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, there is a paucity of data on the prevalence and correlates of these hematological abnormalities among HIV infected adults in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and correlates of anemia and thrombocytopenia in a cohort of HIV-1 infected adults in northwest Ethiopia. Methods A total of 320 HIV-infected adults were enrolled into the study, from March 2016 to July 2016. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the study participants were recorded. Blood samples were collected from each patient to determine hematological and immunological parameters. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with each hematological abnormality. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. A p-value <0...

Research paper thumbnail of Microbiological and Immunological Aspects of Narcolepsy

Universal Journal of Microbiology Research

Research paper thumbnail of Whole Blood Stimulation Assay as a Treatment Outcome Monitoring Tool for VL Patients in Ethiopia: A Pilot Evaluation

Journal of Immunology Research

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a lethal disease if left untreated. Current treatments produce var... more Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a lethal disease if left untreated. Current treatments produce variable rates of treatment failure and toxicity without sterile cure, rendering treatment efficacy monitoring essential. To avoid repeated invasive tissue aspirates as well as empirical treatment, there is a need for new tools that allow a less-invasive and early assessment of treatment efficacy in the field. Cross-sectional studies have suggested levels of cytokines/chemokines after whole blood stimulation as good markers of cure, but longitudinal studies are lacking. In this study, we followed 13 active VL cases in an endemic area in Ethiopia by measuring the production of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IP-10, IL-2, IL-10, MCP-1, and MIG before, during, and at the end of treatment. After 24 hours of stimulation of whole blood with soluble Leishmania antigen, we observed an early, robust, and incremental increase of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IP-10 levels in all patients during treatment. Moreover, based on the IF...

Research paper thumbnail of Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for HIV, Hepatitis B and C among blood Donors in South Gondar District blood Bank, Northwest Ethiopia

BMC Infectious Diseases

Background: Despite the undeniable significance of blood transfusion in saving a millions life in... more Background: Despite the undeniable significance of blood transfusion in saving a millions life in emergencies and medical treatment, the quality of blood faced challenges from transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) such as HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), HBV (hepatitis B virus) and HCV (hepatitis C virus). This cross-sectional study was undertaken with the aim of determining the seroprevalence and risk factors of HIV, HBV, and HCV among blood donors. Methods: An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted at Debre Tabor district hospital from January 2017 to February 2018. Blood samples from volunteer donors collected; serum separated and screened with ELISA tests for detection of anti-HIV, hepatitis-B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV. Fishers' exact test was employed to see the association between variables as well logistic regression tests were applied to identify potential risk factors. P-value of less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result: A total of 310 volunteer donors were included in the study. The proportion of blood donors having at least one viral-TTI was 12.6% while the magnitudes of HIV, HBV, and HCV were 2.6, 5.8 and 4.2%, respectively. Educational status and multiple sexual behaviors are significantly associated with HIV acquisition whilst marital status was significantly associated with HBsAg seropositivity. Conclusion: Seroprevalence of transfusion-transmissible infections was high and alarming therefore proper screening of donated blood with test methods having better diagnostic performance should be employed. Also encouragement of blood donation from voluntary donors and creating awareness on the general public regarding HIV, HBsAg and HCV transmission and prevention should be strengthen.

Research paper thumbnail of Magnitude of Anemia in Geriatric Population Visiting Outpatient Department at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: Implication for Community-Based Screening

Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research

Objective. This study is aimed at assessing the magnitude and its associated factors of anemia in... more Objective. This study is aimed at assessing the magnitude and its associated factors of anemia in geriatric population visiting outpatient department at the University of Gondar referral hospital, northwest Ethiopia. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted among elder patients in Gondar town, North Gondar District, in May 2013. A total of 200 randomly selected geriatric population participated in the study. Summary statistics were computed and presented in tables and figure. Both bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression were fitted to identify associated factors. A P value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result. The median age of the study participants was 65 years (Interquartile range (IQR): 8 years). The prevalence of anemia in the geriatric patients was 54.5% (n=109), of which 61.5% (n=67) were males. Mild type anemia was predominant, 55.96% (n=61). Geriatric patients with an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (AOR = 9.04, 95% CI: 4...

Research paper thumbnail of Level of Interferon - Gamma, Interlukin – 6, Frequency of Monocyte and Lymphocyte Subsets among Newly Diagnosed Tuberculosis Patients in Northwest Ethiopia

Journal of Advances in Microbiology

Research paper thumbnail of Rubella virus infections and immune status among pregnant women before the introduction of rubella vaccine in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

International Journal of Infectious Diseases

Research paper thumbnail of Agreement between direct fluorescent microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen concentration techniques in detection of pulmonary tuberculosis in northwest Ethiopia

Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences

BACKGROUND: The sensitivity of smear microscopy for diagnosis of tuberculosis might be improved t... more BACKGROUND: The sensitivity of smear microscopy for diagnosis of tuberculosis might be improved through treatment of sputum with sodium hypochlorite and application of fluorescent microscopy. This study aimed to determine the agreement between direct Fluorescent Microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen concentration technique by their ability of detecting acid fast bacilli in resource poor settings. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted at Gondar University Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Three sputum specimens were collected from consecutive TB suspects. Direct and concentrated sputum smears were air-dried, heat-fixed and stained by auramine O and Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques respectively. The stained slides were examined for acid fast bacilli using direct Fluorescent Microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen concentration techniques. RESULTS: Of 293 specimens, 4.4% and 2.4 % were AFB positive by direct fluorescent microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen bleach concentrated techniques respectively. There was high percentage of tuberculosis positivity from early morning sputum samples (2.4%) compared to first spot (1.4%) and second spot (1.7%) sputum samples when using Ziehl-Neelsen sodium hypochlorite concentration technique. A moderate agreement was seen between the two methods (Kappa=0.484, P value<0.001). CONCLUSION: Direct fluorescent microscopy has shown high positivity rate compared to Ziehl-Neelsen concentration technique. A moderate agreement was seen between the two methods. Thus, Ziehl-Neelsen bleach sedimentation technique is recommended for detection of pulmonary tuberculosis at peripheral health service level when Fluorescent Microscopy is not available

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin D deficiency among newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients and their household contacts: a comparative cross-sectional study

Archives of Public Health, 2017

Background: Recent studies suggest that the incidence and severity of tuberculosis is associated ... more Background: Recent studies suggest that the incidence and severity of tuberculosis is associated with low levels of vitamin D. Even though individuals living in Ethiopia have a high exposure to sunlight which is a source of vitamin D, tuberculosis is still one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin D deficiency in newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients, household contacts and community controls in Gondar, Ethiopia. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study design was conducted. Blood samples were collected from newly diagnosed smear positive pulmonary TB patients, their household contacts and community controls. Serum 25(OH)-vitamin D 3 was determined by an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. A serum level of 25(OH)-vitamin D 3 below < 50 nmol/L was defined as vitamin D deficiency and <25 nmol/L as severe vitamin D deficiency. Results: A total of 126 newly diagnosed smear positive TB patients, 57 house hold contacts and 70 apparently community controls were included in the study. The mean ± SD age (years) of TB patients, house hold contacts and community controls was 29.8 ± 11.9, 24.3 ± 14.7 and 27.3 ± 7.6 respectively. Ninety out of 126 (71.4%) TB patients were underweight with a BMI of < 18.5 kg/m 2. The mean 25(OH)-vitamin D 3 level of TB patients (30.1 ± 19.3 nmol/L) was significantly lower than community controls (38.5 ± 20.9 nmol/L, P = 0.005 and household contacts (37.7 ± 12. 8 nmol/L, P =0.031).). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was higher in TB patients (83.3%) than in community controls (67.1%, P = 0.009). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was also found higher in household contacts (80.7%). Severe vitamin D deficiency was observed in 53%(67/126), 30% (21/70), 19.3%(11/57) of TB patients, community controls and household contacts respectively. Low BMI (AOR = 2.13; 95%CI: 1.02, 3.28) and being positive for tuberculosis (AOR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.06, 2.86) were significant predictors of severe vitamin D deficiency. Conclusion: High prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was found among newly diagnosed TB patients and in their household contacts. The present study warrants further studies to determine the role of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis in Ethiopia.

Research paper thumbnail of Immunological and hematological reference intervals among HIV-seronegative pregnant women in northwest Ethiopia

International Journal of Women's Health, 2017

Background: Pregnancy is a state characterized by profound physiological hematological changes. H... more Background: Pregnancy is a state characterized by profound physiological hematological changes. However, hematological reference intervals being used in clinical practice in Ethiopia are derived from nonlocal general populations, despite the significant variations reported previously. The aim of this study was to determine the immunological and hematological reference intervals in healthy pregnancy among HIV-seronegative pregnant women in northwest Ethiopia. Materials and methods: A total of 200 healthy, HIV-seronegative pregnant women were enrolled from February 2015 to June 2015 in a cross-sectional study setting at Gondar University Hospital. Sociodemographic and obstetric data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Blood samples collected from each participant were used to define the immunological and hematological parameters. The mean, median, and 95% interval values were calculated for the immunological and hematological parameters. P-value ,0.05 was considered statistically significant for all variables. Results: This study found that there were changes in CD4+ T-cell count, platelet count, and hematocrit (HCT) values as pregnancy advances. The calculated combined reference intervals for the absolute CD4+ T-cell count and platelet count were 712.47-760.67 and 221.25-240.14, respectively. A progressive decline in the platelet count was observed as pregnancy advanced, with 95% intervals of 224.53-253.21, 209.50-237.38, and 213.70-247.86 in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively (P=0.27). There was a statistically significant increase in mean (±standard deviation [SD]) HCT with gestational age, being 39.18±6.70, 41.96±3.70, and 40.53±3.77 in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively (P=0.03). The overall 95% interval for hemoglobin (HB) concentration was 12.99-13.36 g/dL, HCT 40.19%-41.49%, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 93.33-94.63 fL, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 28.88-34.81 pg. Compared with the reference ranges derived from other studies, we found considerable variations in CD4+ T-cell count, HB, HCT, and MCV values. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the differences in immunohematological profile among pregnant women and nonpregnant women from Ethiopia and other countries, in addition to suggesting the need for such establishment of local reference values for different populations.

Research paper thumbnail of Seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus among voluntary counseling and testing clients at the University of Gondar Teaching Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of A 5-year trend of <em>Helicobacter pylori</em> seroprevalence among dyspeptic patients at Bahir Dar Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

Research and Reports in Tropical Medicine, 2016

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is a major public health problem affecting half of the ... more Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is a major public health problem affecting half of the world's population. The prevalence of H. pylori varies in different societies and geographical locations. Thus, timely information on H. pylori epidemiology is critical to combat this infection. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and trend of H. pylori infection over a period of 5 years among dyspeptic patients at

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence and clinical correlates of Schistosoma mansoni co-infection among malaria infected patients, Northwest Ethiopia

BMC Research Notes, 2015

Background: In Ethiopia, where malaria and schistosomiasis are co-endemic, co-infections are expe... more Background: In Ethiopia, where malaria and schistosomiasis are co-endemic, co-infections are expected to be high. However, data about the prevalence of malaria-schistosomiasis co-infection and their clinical correlation is lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni co-infection and associated clinical correlates in malaria patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2013 at Chwahit Health Center, in northwest Ethiopia. Blood film positive malaria patients (N = 205) were recruited for the study. Clinical, parasitological, hematological, and biochemical parameters were assessed from every study participant. Stool samples were also collected and processed with Kato-Katz technique to diagnose and classify intensity of Schistosoma mansoni. Results: The prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni and malaria co-infection was 19.5 %. The age group of 16-20 years old was significantly associated with co-infection. Co-infected patients with a moderate-heavy egg burden of Schistosoma mansoni had significantly high mean Plasmodium parasitemia. On the other hand, age group of 6-10 years old and moderate-heavy Schistosoma mansoni co-infection were significantly associated with severe malaria. Conclusions: Prevalence of malaria and Schistosoma mansoni co-infection in the study area was considerably high. Severity of malaria and parasitemia of Plasmodium were associated with certain age groups and intensity of concurrent Schistosoma mansoni. Further study is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of interaction between malaria and Schistosoma mansoni.

Research paper thumbnail of Establishment of Normal Reference Intervals for CD3 + , CD4 + , CD8 + , and CD4 + to CD8 + Ratio of T Lymphocytes in HIV Negative Adults from University of Gondar Hospital, North West Ethiopia

AIDS Research and Treatment, 2014

Background.Reference values for the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+to CD8+ratio T lymphocyte subsets a... more Background.Reference values for the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+to CD8+ratio T lymphocyte subsets are adopted from textbooks. But for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients, correct interpretations of the laboratory results from normal reference interval are mandatory. This study was, therefore, planned to establish normal reference interval for T lymphocytes subset count and CD4+to CD8+ratio.Methods.A cross-sectional study was conducted on apparently healthy adult individuals who visited voluntary counseling and HIV testing clinic Gondar University Hospital from April to May, 2013. Whole blood was analyzed using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (BD FACS, San Jose, CA) machine to enumerate the T-cell subpopulations.Results.Out of the total 320 study participants, 161 (50.3%) were men and 159 (49.7%) were women. The normal reference intervals were (655–2,823 cells/μL), (321–1,389 cells/μL), and (220–1,664 cells/μL) for CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+T lymphocyte subsets, r...

Research paper thumbnail of Epidemiology of intestinal schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminthiasis among primary school children in Gorgora, Northwest Ethiopia

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of Paracheck Pf® test with conventional light microscopy for the diagnosis of malaria in Ethiopia

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2012

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of CareStart™ HRP2/pLDH COMBO rapid malaria test with light microscopy in north-west Ethiopia

Malaria Journal, 2012

Background: In Ethiopia, light microscopy is the gold standard for malaria diagnosis although it ... more Background: In Ethiopia, light microscopy is the gold standard for malaria diagnosis although it is not available in most peripheral health facilities. It is time consuming, requires trained personnel and needs careful preparation and application of reagents to ensure quality results. This study was aimed at testing the diagnostic performance of CareStart™ malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) with reference to light microscopy for the diagnosis of falciparum and vivax malaria in Ethiopia. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 254 patients suspected to have malaria at Kola Diba Health Center in the late malaria transmission peak season from November 2011 to December 2011. The samples were examined immediately by light microscopy and the RDT (CareStart™ Malaria HRP2/pLDH COMBO Test kit). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16 and the JavaStat two-way contingency table analysis. Results: The overall sensitivity and specificity of CareStart TM RDT was found to be 95% (90-97.9%, 95% CI) and 94.2% (90.9-96%, 95% CI), respectively. The sensitivity of the CareStart TM RDT for Plasmodium falciparum or mixed infection was calculated to be 92.9% (82.5-98%, 95%CI) while a sensitivity of 90.9% (74.1-98.4%, 95%CI) was found for non-falciparum species. The specificity for P. falciparum or mixed infections was found to be 95.4% (92.5-96.8%, 95%CI) while it was 97.3% (94.8-98.4%, 95%CI) for non-falciparum species. There was an excellent agreement between the two tests with a kappa value of 0.918. Conclusion: The CareStart TM RDT test showed good sensitivity and specificity with an excellent agreement to the reference light microscopy. The RDT could therefore be used in place of light microscopy, which in poor setups cannot be used routinely.

Research paper thumbnail of Research Article Establishment of Normal Reference Intervals for CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+ to CD8+ Ratio of T Lymphocytes in HIV Negative Adults from University of

Copyright © 2014 Addisu Gize et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative... more Copyright © 2014 Addisu Gize et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Background. Reference values for the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+ to CD8+ ratio T lymphocyte subsets are adopted from textbooks. But for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients, correct interpretations of the laboratory results from normal reference interval aremandatory.This studywas, therefore, planned to establish normal reference interval for T lymphocytes subset count and CD4+ to CD8+ ratio.Methods.A cross-sectional study was conducted on apparently healthy adult individuals who visited voluntary counseling andHIV testing clinic Gondar University Hospital fromApril toMay, 2013.Whole blood was analyzed using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (BD FACS, San Jose, CA) machine to enumerate the T-cell subpopulations. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Author ’ s response to reviews Title : Vitamin D deficiency among newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients and their household contacts : a comparative cross-sectional study Authors

Research paper thumbnail of Role Of Vitamin-D Supplementation In TB/HIV Co-Infected Patients

Infection and Drug Resistance, 2020

Objective: This review aimed to assess the role of vitamin D supplementation on the decrement of ... more Objective: This review aimed to assess the role of vitamin D supplementation on the decrement of mortality and morbidity rate among tuberculosis (TB)/human immune deficiency virus (HIV) co-infected clients. Method: Pub Med, google scholar and google search were accessed to find out all document to describe this review article. Results: Nowadays TB/HIV co-infection has become a major global concern, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Mycobacterium tuberculosis and HIV infections are coendemic and more susceptible to the progression of TB. Immunosuppression associated with HIV is a strong risk factor for the reactivation of latent TB to the active form. Immune cells like macrophages recognized Mycobacterium tuberculosis through TLR2/1, and it increases the expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and CYP27B1. The synthesis of 1,25dihydroxy vitamin D promotes VDR-mediated transactivation of the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin and the killing of intracellular Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Cathelicidins have a direct antimicrobial effect through membrane disruption. Besides, it has also antiviral effects via inhibition of retrovirus (HIV) replication. In fact, as some studies showed, there was a lower induction of cathelicidin in monocytes who have low vitamin D levels. Conclusion: Therefore, vitamin D supplementation can be directly involved in the reduction of TB/HIV co-infection and its progression.

Research paper thumbnail of Anemia and thrombocytopenia in the cohort of HIV-infected adults in northwest Ethiopia: a facility-based cross-sectional study

EJIFCC, 2018

Background Anemia and thrombocytopenia are frequent hematological abnormalities in patients with ... more Background Anemia and thrombocytopenia are frequent hematological abnormalities in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, there is a paucity of data on the prevalence and correlates of these hematological abnormalities among HIV infected adults in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and correlates of anemia and thrombocytopenia in a cohort of HIV-1 infected adults in northwest Ethiopia. Methods A total of 320 HIV-infected adults were enrolled into the study, from March 2016 to July 2016. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the study participants were recorded. Blood samples were collected from each patient to determine hematological and immunological parameters. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with each hematological abnormality. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. A p-value <0...

Research paper thumbnail of Microbiological and Immunological Aspects of Narcolepsy

Universal Journal of Microbiology Research

Research paper thumbnail of Whole Blood Stimulation Assay as a Treatment Outcome Monitoring Tool for VL Patients in Ethiopia: A Pilot Evaluation

Journal of Immunology Research

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a lethal disease if left untreated. Current treatments produce var... more Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a lethal disease if left untreated. Current treatments produce variable rates of treatment failure and toxicity without sterile cure, rendering treatment efficacy monitoring essential. To avoid repeated invasive tissue aspirates as well as empirical treatment, there is a need for new tools that allow a less-invasive and early assessment of treatment efficacy in the field. Cross-sectional studies have suggested levels of cytokines/chemokines after whole blood stimulation as good markers of cure, but longitudinal studies are lacking. In this study, we followed 13 active VL cases in an endemic area in Ethiopia by measuring the production of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IP-10, IL-2, IL-10, MCP-1, and MIG before, during, and at the end of treatment. After 24 hours of stimulation of whole blood with soluble Leishmania antigen, we observed an early, robust, and incremental increase of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IP-10 levels in all patients during treatment. Moreover, based on the IF...

Research paper thumbnail of Seroprevalence and associated risk factors for HIV, Hepatitis B and C among blood Donors in South Gondar District blood Bank, Northwest Ethiopia

BMC Infectious Diseases

Background: Despite the undeniable significance of blood transfusion in saving a millions life in... more Background: Despite the undeniable significance of blood transfusion in saving a millions life in emergencies and medical treatment, the quality of blood faced challenges from transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) such as HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), HBV (hepatitis B virus) and HCV (hepatitis C virus). This cross-sectional study was undertaken with the aim of determining the seroprevalence and risk factors of HIV, HBV, and HCV among blood donors. Methods: An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted at Debre Tabor district hospital from January 2017 to February 2018. Blood samples from volunteer donors collected; serum separated and screened with ELISA tests for detection of anti-HIV, hepatitis-B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV. Fishers' exact test was employed to see the association between variables as well logistic regression tests were applied to identify potential risk factors. P-value of less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result: A total of 310 volunteer donors were included in the study. The proportion of blood donors having at least one viral-TTI was 12.6% while the magnitudes of HIV, HBV, and HCV were 2.6, 5.8 and 4.2%, respectively. Educational status and multiple sexual behaviors are significantly associated with HIV acquisition whilst marital status was significantly associated with HBsAg seropositivity. Conclusion: Seroprevalence of transfusion-transmissible infections was high and alarming therefore proper screening of donated blood with test methods having better diagnostic performance should be employed. Also encouragement of blood donation from voluntary donors and creating awareness on the general public regarding HIV, HBsAg and HCV transmission and prevention should be strengthen.

Research paper thumbnail of Magnitude of Anemia in Geriatric Population Visiting Outpatient Department at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: Implication for Community-Based Screening

Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research

Objective. This study is aimed at assessing the magnitude and its associated factors of anemia in... more Objective. This study is aimed at assessing the magnitude and its associated factors of anemia in geriatric population visiting outpatient department at the University of Gondar referral hospital, northwest Ethiopia. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted among elder patients in Gondar town, North Gondar District, in May 2013. A total of 200 randomly selected geriatric population participated in the study. Summary statistics were computed and presented in tables and figure. Both bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression were fitted to identify associated factors. A P value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result. The median age of the study participants was 65 years (Interquartile range (IQR): 8 years). The prevalence of anemia in the geriatric patients was 54.5% (n=109), of which 61.5% (n=67) were males. Mild type anemia was predominant, 55.96% (n=61). Geriatric patients with an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (AOR = 9.04, 95% CI: 4...

Research paper thumbnail of Level of Interferon - Gamma, Interlukin – 6, Frequency of Monocyte and Lymphocyte Subsets among Newly Diagnosed Tuberculosis Patients in Northwest Ethiopia

Journal of Advances in Microbiology

Research paper thumbnail of Rubella virus infections and immune status among pregnant women before the introduction of rubella vaccine in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

International Journal of Infectious Diseases

Research paper thumbnail of Agreement between direct fluorescent microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen concentration techniques in detection of pulmonary tuberculosis in northwest Ethiopia

Ethiopian Journal of Health Sciences

BACKGROUND: The sensitivity of smear microscopy for diagnosis of tuberculosis might be improved t... more BACKGROUND: The sensitivity of smear microscopy for diagnosis of tuberculosis might be improved through treatment of sputum with sodium hypochlorite and application of fluorescent microscopy. This study aimed to determine the agreement between direct Fluorescent Microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen concentration technique by their ability of detecting acid fast bacilli in resource poor settings. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted at Gondar University Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Three sputum specimens were collected from consecutive TB suspects. Direct and concentrated sputum smears were air-dried, heat-fixed and stained by auramine O and Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques respectively. The stained slides were examined for acid fast bacilli using direct Fluorescent Microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen concentration techniques. RESULTS: Of 293 specimens, 4.4% and 2.4 % were AFB positive by direct fluorescent microscopy and Ziehl-Neelsen bleach concentrated techniques respectively. There was high percentage of tuberculosis positivity from early morning sputum samples (2.4%) compared to first spot (1.4%) and second spot (1.7%) sputum samples when using Ziehl-Neelsen sodium hypochlorite concentration technique. A moderate agreement was seen between the two methods (Kappa=0.484, P value<0.001). CONCLUSION: Direct fluorescent microscopy has shown high positivity rate compared to Ziehl-Neelsen concentration technique. A moderate agreement was seen between the two methods. Thus, Ziehl-Neelsen bleach sedimentation technique is recommended for detection of pulmonary tuberculosis at peripheral health service level when Fluorescent Microscopy is not available

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin D deficiency among newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients and their household contacts: a comparative cross-sectional study

Archives of Public Health, 2017

Background: Recent studies suggest that the incidence and severity of tuberculosis is associated ... more Background: Recent studies suggest that the incidence and severity of tuberculosis is associated with low levels of vitamin D. Even though individuals living in Ethiopia have a high exposure to sunlight which is a source of vitamin D, tuberculosis is still one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin D deficiency in newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients, household contacts and community controls in Gondar, Ethiopia. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study design was conducted. Blood samples were collected from newly diagnosed smear positive pulmonary TB patients, their household contacts and community controls. Serum 25(OH)-vitamin D 3 was determined by an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. A serum level of 25(OH)-vitamin D 3 below < 50 nmol/L was defined as vitamin D deficiency and <25 nmol/L as severe vitamin D deficiency. Results: A total of 126 newly diagnosed smear positive TB patients, 57 house hold contacts and 70 apparently community controls were included in the study. The mean ± SD age (years) of TB patients, house hold contacts and community controls was 29.8 ± 11.9, 24.3 ± 14.7 and 27.3 ± 7.6 respectively. Ninety out of 126 (71.4%) TB patients were underweight with a BMI of < 18.5 kg/m 2. The mean 25(OH)-vitamin D 3 level of TB patients (30.1 ± 19.3 nmol/L) was significantly lower than community controls (38.5 ± 20.9 nmol/L, P = 0.005 and household contacts (37.7 ± 12. 8 nmol/L, P =0.031).). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was higher in TB patients (83.3%) than in community controls (67.1%, P = 0.009). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was also found higher in household contacts (80.7%). Severe vitamin D deficiency was observed in 53%(67/126), 30% (21/70), 19.3%(11/57) of TB patients, community controls and household contacts respectively. Low BMI (AOR = 2.13; 95%CI: 1.02, 3.28) and being positive for tuberculosis (AOR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.06, 2.86) were significant predictors of severe vitamin D deficiency. Conclusion: High prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was found among newly diagnosed TB patients and in their household contacts. The present study warrants further studies to determine the role of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis in Ethiopia.

Research paper thumbnail of Immunological and hematological reference intervals among HIV-seronegative pregnant women in northwest Ethiopia

International Journal of Women's Health, 2017

Background: Pregnancy is a state characterized by profound physiological hematological changes. H... more Background: Pregnancy is a state characterized by profound physiological hematological changes. However, hematological reference intervals being used in clinical practice in Ethiopia are derived from nonlocal general populations, despite the significant variations reported previously. The aim of this study was to determine the immunological and hematological reference intervals in healthy pregnancy among HIV-seronegative pregnant women in northwest Ethiopia. Materials and methods: A total of 200 healthy, HIV-seronegative pregnant women were enrolled from February 2015 to June 2015 in a cross-sectional study setting at Gondar University Hospital. Sociodemographic and obstetric data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Blood samples collected from each participant were used to define the immunological and hematological parameters. The mean, median, and 95% interval values were calculated for the immunological and hematological parameters. P-value ,0.05 was considered statistically significant for all variables. Results: This study found that there were changes in CD4+ T-cell count, platelet count, and hematocrit (HCT) values as pregnancy advances. The calculated combined reference intervals for the absolute CD4+ T-cell count and platelet count were 712.47-760.67 and 221.25-240.14, respectively. A progressive decline in the platelet count was observed as pregnancy advanced, with 95% intervals of 224.53-253.21, 209.50-237.38, and 213.70-247.86 in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively (P=0.27). There was a statistically significant increase in mean (±standard deviation [SD]) HCT with gestational age, being 39.18±6.70, 41.96±3.70, and 40.53±3.77 in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively (P=0.03). The overall 95% interval for hemoglobin (HB) concentration was 12.99-13.36 g/dL, HCT 40.19%-41.49%, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 93.33-94.63 fL, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 28.88-34.81 pg. Compared with the reference ranges derived from other studies, we found considerable variations in CD4+ T-cell count, HB, HCT, and MCV values. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the differences in immunohematological profile among pregnant women and nonpregnant women from Ethiopia and other countries, in addition to suggesting the need for such establishment of local reference values for different populations.

Research paper thumbnail of Seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus among voluntary counseling and testing clients at the University of Gondar Teaching Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of A 5-year trend of <em>Helicobacter pylori</em> seroprevalence among dyspeptic patients at Bahir Dar Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

Research and Reports in Tropical Medicine, 2016

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is a major public health problem affecting half of the ... more Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is a major public health problem affecting half of the world's population. The prevalence of H. pylori varies in different societies and geographical locations. Thus, timely information on H. pylori epidemiology is critical to combat this infection. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and trend of H. pylori infection over a period of 5 years among dyspeptic patients at

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence and clinical correlates of Schistosoma mansoni co-infection among malaria infected patients, Northwest Ethiopia

BMC Research Notes, 2015

Background: In Ethiopia, where malaria and schistosomiasis are co-endemic, co-infections are expe... more Background: In Ethiopia, where malaria and schistosomiasis are co-endemic, co-infections are expected to be high. However, data about the prevalence of malaria-schistosomiasis co-infection and their clinical correlation is lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni co-infection and associated clinical correlates in malaria patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2013 at Chwahit Health Center, in northwest Ethiopia. Blood film positive malaria patients (N = 205) were recruited for the study. Clinical, parasitological, hematological, and biochemical parameters were assessed from every study participant. Stool samples were also collected and processed with Kato-Katz technique to diagnose and classify intensity of Schistosoma mansoni. Results: The prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni and malaria co-infection was 19.5 %. The age group of 16-20 years old was significantly associated with co-infection. Co-infected patients with a moderate-heavy egg burden of Schistosoma mansoni had significantly high mean Plasmodium parasitemia. On the other hand, age group of 6-10 years old and moderate-heavy Schistosoma mansoni co-infection were significantly associated with severe malaria. Conclusions: Prevalence of malaria and Schistosoma mansoni co-infection in the study area was considerably high. Severity of malaria and parasitemia of Plasmodium were associated with certain age groups and intensity of concurrent Schistosoma mansoni. Further study is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of interaction between malaria and Schistosoma mansoni.

Research paper thumbnail of Establishment of Normal Reference Intervals for CD3 + , CD4 + , CD8 + , and CD4 + to CD8 + Ratio of T Lymphocytes in HIV Negative Adults from University of Gondar Hospital, North West Ethiopia

AIDS Research and Treatment, 2014

Background.Reference values for the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+to CD8+ratio T lymphocyte subsets a... more Background.Reference values for the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+to CD8+ratio T lymphocyte subsets are adopted from textbooks. But for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients, correct interpretations of the laboratory results from normal reference interval are mandatory. This study was, therefore, planned to establish normal reference interval for T lymphocytes subset count and CD4+to CD8+ratio.Methods.A cross-sectional study was conducted on apparently healthy adult individuals who visited voluntary counseling and HIV testing clinic Gondar University Hospital from April to May, 2013. Whole blood was analyzed using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (BD FACS, San Jose, CA) machine to enumerate the T-cell subpopulations.Results.Out of the total 320 study participants, 161 (50.3%) were men and 159 (49.7%) were women. The normal reference intervals were (655–2,823 cells/μL), (321–1,389 cells/μL), and (220–1,664 cells/μL) for CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+T lymphocyte subsets, r...

Research paper thumbnail of Epidemiology of intestinal schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminthiasis among primary school children in Gorgora, Northwest Ethiopia

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of Paracheck Pf® test with conventional light microscopy for the diagnosis of malaria in Ethiopia

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2012

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of CareStart™ HRP2/pLDH COMBO rapid malaria test with light microscopy in north-west Ethiopia

Malaria Journal, 2012

Background: In Ethiopia, light microscopy is the gold standard for malaria diagnosis although it ... more Background: In Ethiopia, light microscopy is the gold standard for malaria diagnosis although it is not available in most peripheral health facilities. It is time consuming, requires trained personnel and needs careful preparation and application of reagents to ensure quality results. This study was aimed at testing the diagnostic performance of CareStart™ malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) with reference to light microscopy for the diagnosis of falciparum and vivax malaria in Ethiopia. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 254 patients suspected to have malaria at Kola Diba Health Center in the late malaria transmission peak season from November 2011 to December 2011. The samples were examined immediately by light microscopy and the RDT (CareStart™ Malaria HRP2/pLDH COMBO Test kit). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16 and the JavaStat two-way contingency table analysis. Results: The overall sensitivity and specificity of CareStart TM RDT was found to be 95% (90-97.9%, 95% CI) and 94.2% (90.9-96%, 95% CI), respectively. The sensitivity of the CareStart TM RDT for Plasmodium falciparum or mixed infection was calculated to be 92.9% (82.5-98%, 95%CI) while a sensitivity of 90.9% (74.1-98.4%, 95%CI) was found for non-falciparum species. The specificity for P. falciparum or mixed infections was found to be 95.4% (92.5-96.8%, 95%CI) while it was 97.3% (94.8-98.4%, 95%CI) for non-falciparum species. There was an excellent agreement between the two tests with a kappa value of 0.918. Conclusion: The CareStart TM RDT test showed good sensitivity and specificity with an excellent agreement to the reference light microscopy. The RDT could therefore be used in place of light microscopy, which in poor setups cannot be used routinely.