Raid Umran - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Raid Umran

Research paper thumbnail of Diagnostic value of serum procalcitonin level in differentiating bacterial from nonbacterial meningitis in children

PubMed, Dec 1, 2014

Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal dise... more Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its prognosis is critically dependent on rapid diagnosis and treatment. The use of biological markers, like procalcitonin, has been proposed to facilitate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was assessment the diagnostic values of serum procalcitonin (PCT) assay in the diagnosis and differentiation of acute bacterial from non bacterial meningitis. Methods: 45 patients with suspicion of meningitis were enrolled in the study and were clinically evaluated and investigated by lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, C-reactive protein and differential leukocyte count. Patients with clinical and laboratory suggestion of bacterial causes were regarded as bacterial meningitis group (29 patients), and those who were suggestive of nonbacterial causes were regarded as nonbacterial group (16 patients). Findings: Serum procalcitonin levels were significantly higher in bacterial meningitis group (637±325 pg/ml) compared with non-bacterial meningitis (380±170 pg/ml); P<0.001. Procalcitonin levels were more sensitive and specific (79%, 81%) than C-reactive protein (76%, 75%) and white blood cell count (72%, 75%) in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Conclusion: Elevated serum procalcitonin level could be a predictor of bacterial causes of meningitis and is more sensitive and specific than other diagnostic predictors.

Research paper thumbnail of Causes of Neonatal Re-admission in 24 hours after Cesarean Section

Kufa medical journal, Jun 15, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of * Corresponding Author; Diagnostic Value of Serum Procalcitonin Level in Differentiating Bacterial from Nonbacterial Meningitis in Children

Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal dise... more Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its prognosis is critically dependent on rapid diagnosis and treatment. The use of biological markers, like procalcitonin, has been proposed to facilitate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was assessment the diagnostic values of serum procalcitonin (PCT) assay in the diagnosis and differentiation of acute bacterial from non bacterial meningitis. Methods: 45 patients with suspicion of meningitis were enrolled in the study and were clinically evaluated and investigated by lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, C-reactive protein and differential leukocyte count. Patients with clinical and laboratory suggestion of bacterial causes were regarded as bacterial meningitis group (29 patients), and those who were suggestive of nonbacterial causes were regarded as nonbacterial group (16 patients). Findings: Serum procalcitonin lev...

Research paper thumbnail of Bubble Nasal CPAP in the Management of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (One Year Experience in Low Resources Unit) ‫ت‬ ‫تحت‬ ‫الخديج‬ ‫بقاء‬ ‫مدة‬ ‫وطول‬ ‫الجهاز‬ ‫وضع‬ ‫في‬ ‫التاخير‬ ‫و‬ ‫السينية‬ ‫االشعه‬ ‫ة‬ ‫صور‬ ‫في‬ ‫الشديدة‬ ‫التنفس‬ ‫عسر‬ ‫نسبه‬ ‫لد

Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficiency or dysf... more Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficiency or dysfunction of pulmonary surfactant. The use of CPAP for RDS Produces more regular breathing pattern, establishes and maintains functional residual capacity, decreases upper airway resistance, results in progressive alveolar recruitment, inflates collapsed alveoli and reduces intrapulmonary shunting, decreases upper airway collapsibility and reduces obstructive apneas, promotes the release of and conservation of surfactant on the alveolar surface. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of using bubble CPAP in the management of respiratory distress syndrome and to identify the risk factors associated with its failure. Patients and methods: 63 newborns who have been diagnosed as RDS were started on Bubble CPAP with bi-nasal prongs. Bubble CPAP was considered to be successful if the respiratory distress improved and the baby could be successfully weaned off from CPAP. Based on radiological fi...

Research paper thumbnail of “Neonatal Outcomes In A Level II Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit”

Pediatrics International, 2016

Improvement of neonatal mortality is a challenge in developing countries such as Iraq due to incr... more Improvement of neonatal mortality is a challenge in developing countries such as Iraq due to increased demand and overload of maternity services. The aim of this study was to document the number, disease patterns and outcome of admitted newborns and the improvement after implementation of clinical protocols, and to identify possible future target measures.

Research paper thumbnail of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Levels in Term Newborns with Hypoxic–Ischemic Encephalopathy

American Journal of Perinatology, 2016

Objective This study aims to evaluate the correlation of changes in serum insulin-like growth fac... more Objective This study aims to evaluate the correlation of changes in serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels with the clinical staging of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in term newborns. Study Design A prospective study of 29 newborns with HIE (stage I = 15, stage II + III = 14) and 28 healthy term newborns as the control group was performed in the neonatal intensive care unit. IGF-1 levels were obtained within 6 hours after birth from HIE and control groups and again on day 3 from HIE group. HIE was classified using the Sarnat staging I to III. Results IGF-1 levels were significantly lower in the HIE group than in the control group (p = 0.024). It was lower in the HIE stage II to III group compared with HIE stage I group at birth (p &lt; 0.0001) and on day 3 (p = 0.009). The mean IGF-1 levels were significantly higher on day 3 than on day 1 among stage II to III HIE (p = 0.006) and it was inversely correlated with staging (R = - 0.475, p = 0.009). There was a significant correlation between IGF-1 levels and Apgar score at 5 (R = 0.39, p = 0.042) and 10 minutes (R = 0.38, p = 0.035). Conclusions IGF-1 was lower in HIE and inversely correlated with clinical staging. It was increased with clinical improvement in the subsequent days.

Research paper thumbnail of A case report: Antenatal diagnosis of Rare Presentation of congenital Lober Emphysema

Research paper thumbnail of Short Term Neonatal Outcome following Spinal versus General Anesthesia for Repeated Elective Cesarean Section in Iraq

Background: With the increase in the rate of cesarean delivery worldwide and particularly in Iraq... more Background: With the increase in the rate of cesarean delivery worldwide and particularly in Iraq, the use of spinal anesthesia as a new alternative to general anesthesia was increasing to reach high rate in the last years. Objectives: To evaluate the influence of type of anesthesia used in cesarean delivery on the short term neonatal outcome in Iraqi population. Methods: A prospective comparative study of 437 pregnant women and their newborn babies were recruited in five categories according to the gestational ages. The mothers included have 36wk gestational age and go on, delivered by repeated elective CS, have single viable fetus and normal on going pregnancies. All mothers and newborn parameters were registered. The study population divided in to two groups depending on the type of anesthesia used; 246 cases with spinal and 191 with general anesthesia. Results: There was no difference in the mother's age, weight, parity, newborn 1 st minute Apgar score and type of anesthesia...

Research paper thumbnail of Impact of timing of the repeated elective cesarean section on the early neonatal outcomes

International Journal of Advanced Research

Research paper thumbnail of 5TH Europaediatrics 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Diagnostic value of serum procalcitonin level in differentiating bacterial from nonbacterial meningitis in children

Iranian Journal of Pediatrics

Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its pr... more Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its prognosis is critically dependent on rapid diagnosis and treatment. The use of biological markers, like procalcitonin, has been proposed to facilitate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was assessment the diagnostic values of serum procalcitonin (PCT) assay in the diagnosis and differentiation of acute bacterial from non bacterial meningitis. 45 patients with suspicion of meningitis were enrolled in the study and were clinically evaluated and investigated by lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, C-reactive protein and differential leukocyte count. Patients with clinical and laboratory suggestion of bacterial causes were regarded as bacterial meningitis group (29 patients), and those who were suggestive of nonbacterial causes were regarded as nonbacterial group (16 patients). Serum procalcitonin levels were significantly higher ...

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Maternal Supplementation with Iron on Neonatal Iron Status and Birth Weight

Background: Iron is an essential micronutrient that plays a significant role in critical cellular... more Background: Iron is an essential micronutrient that plays a significant role in critical cellular functions in all organ systems in all species. Iron is particularly vital for early brain growth and function in humans since it supports neuronal and glial energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis and myelination. Methods: 93 infants born through normal vaginal and cesarean delivery, enrolled in this study. According to maternal iron supplementation the sample divided in to two groups: iron supplemented group or a non-iron supplemented group. Women in the iron supplemented group consumed daily prenatal supplements. At the time of delivery, 5-ml of blood was obtained from the umbilical cord after early ligation of the cord, for each sample (Hb), (MCV), (RDW), (CBI) and (TIBC) was measured. Maternal age, Gestational age, parity birth weight, and baby sex were also recorded. Results: The mean of neonatal birth weight was higher in iron supplemented group (2589.29±638.74gm) than that ...

Research paper thumbnail of Cord Blood Lipid Profile in Premature, Near-Term and Term Newborn Infants

Introduction: The fetus needs a considerable amount of cholesterol for the development of tissues... more Introduction: The fetus needs a considerable amount of cholesterol for the development of tissues and organs. Studies have suggested that genetic and environmental factors influence the composition of cord blood lipoproteins. In this study, we aim to assess the effect of gestational age, sex and birth weight on the cord blood lipoproteins. Methods: We collected umbilical cord blood samples from 91 newborn infants, delivered normally, or by caesarean section. According to their gestational age, the samples were divided into 3 groups: the premature (≤ 34 weeks of gestational age), the near -term (35 – 37 weeks of gestational age), and the term group (≥ 38 weeks of gestational age). Serum was used to measure cholesterol, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) by the enzymatic auto-analyzer. SPSS 17 software was used for ANOVA test, Student t-test and Spearman correlation test. P-value less than 0.05 was regarded as significant. Results: The results of this study indicate that...

Research paper thumbnail of Bubble Nasal CPAP in the Management of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (One Year Experience in Low Resources Unit)

Abstract Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficienc... more Abstract Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficiency or dysfunction of pulmonary surfactant. The use of CPAP for RDS Produces more regular breathing pattern, establishes and maintains functional residual capacity, decreases upper airway resistance, results in progressive alveolar recruitment, inflates collapsed alveoli and reduces intrapulmonary shunting, decreases upper airway collapsibility and reduces obstructive apneas, promotes the release of and conservation of surfactant on the alveolar surface. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of using bubble CPAP in the management of respiratory distress syndrome and to identify the risk factors associated with its failure. Patients and methods: 63 newborns who have been diagnosed as RDS were started on Bubble CPAP with bi-nasal prongs. Bubble CPAP was considered to be successful if the respiratory distress improved and the baby could be successfully weaned off from CPAP. Based on radiol...

Research paper thumbnail of Association between Low Cord Serum Cortisol Level and Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn in Late Preterm and Term Neonates Delivered by Elective Cesarean Section

American Journal of Perinatology

Objective Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), a common neonatal respiratory morbidity, is a... more Objective Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), a common neonatal respiratory morbidity, is associated with failure of adequate clearance of fetal lung fluid. Glucocorticoids have an important role in lung maturity and the mechanisms of lung fluid clearance. The aim of this study is to assess the association between umbilical cord cortisol levels and transient TTN in late preterm and term neonates delivered by elective cesarean section (CS). Study Design A case-control study of 37 newborns diagnosed with TTN (cases) was compared with 40 healthy newborns (controls). All infants were delivered by elective CS without labor. Umbilical cord cortisol levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Mean cord cortisol levels were significantly lower in cases than controls (131.36 vs. 233.32 nmol/L, p = 0.0001; odds ratio [OR] = 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.40–9.53), respectively. Cord serum cortisol correlated inversely with the duration of tachypnea and th...

Research paper thumbnail of Significance of Serum Procalcitonin Level in the Early Diagnosis of Neonatal Sepsis

Background: Sepsis in neonates presents itself with non-specific clinical features which makes ea... more Background: Sepsis in neonates presents itself with non-specific clinical features which makes early diagnosis difficult. However, procalcitonin (PCT) and other inflammatory markers have recently been considered as sensitive markers for the early detection of neonatal sepsis. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of PCT in the early detection of neonatal sepsis and compare it with C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cells count.Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 40 neonates who were divided into two groups. The case or sepsis group consisted of 18 neonates with the clinical symptoms of sepsis and positive culture. On the other hand, the control group contained 22 healthy neonates with negative culture. Demographic characteristic of all the participants was recorded during the clinical follow-up. Moreover, blood samples were collected from each neonate for hematological analysis, blood culture, serum CRP measurement, and PCT analysis...

Research paper thumbnail of Increased Nucleated Red Blood Cells in Infants of Diabetic Mothers

New Iraqi Journal of Medicine

Background: The erythroblasts or normoblast or nucleated red blood cells (NRBC) is an immature fo... more Background: The erythroblasts or normoblast or nucleated red blood cells (NRBC) is an immature form of the red blood cells a precursor of reticulocytes. The aim of the study was to find the normative value of NRBC in healthy term newborns in a sample of Iraqi people and to evaluate NRBC as a marker for chronic intra uterine fetal hypoxia in infants of diabetic mothers. Patient and method: In this prospective study a cord blood specimens of (130) term newborn were examined for nucleated red blood cell (NRBC) per 100 WBC. The cases divided in to two groups: First group includes (100) newborns of non diabetic mothers. Second group (30) newborns of diabetic mothers. Results: The mean value of NRBC per 100 WBC in infant of non diabetic mothers (control group) is (2.43). It was found that there is significant increased in mean of NRBC in the group II (infant of diabetic mothers) which is (18.5, p< 0.0001). It was concluded that in infants of diabetic mothers as the chronic intra uterin...

Research paper thumbnail of Rituximab For Sight-Threatening Refractory Pediatric Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease

Modern Rheumatology, 2015

ABSTRACT Rituximab was trialed in a refractory Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH). A 10-year-old ... more ABSTRACT Rituximab was trialed in a refractory Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH). A 10-year-old girl with panuveitis recalcitrant to treatment, including corticosteroids, was diagnosed with VKH 20 months later. Following Rituximab at 0, 1, 6, and 18 months, response was favorable after the second dose, usual life activity resumed after the third (uveitis was inactivated, vision improved), and eyes stabilized 9 months after the fourth. Rituximab is effective in the treatment and long-term control of advanced, pediatric VKH.

Research paper thumbnail of Erythroblastemia and thrombocytopenia in small for gestational age infants

Journal of the Faculty of Medicine, Baghdad

Research paper thumbnail of Effect Of Nasal Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure On Neonatal Mortality Rate In Iraqi Population in Al-Zahra'a Teaching Hospital in An'najaf city

Background: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a noninvasive method for applying a con... more Background: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a noninvasive method for applying a constant distending pressure level (above atmospheric) during inhalation and exhalation to support spontaneously breathing newborn infants with respiratory distress, The clinical goals of CPAP are to maintain the Functional Residual Capacity of the lungs and support gas exchange to reduce apnea, work of breathing, and lung injury. Aims: To show the effect of using CPAP in NICU on the neonatal morbidity and mortality. Method: A Clinical Trial study was carried out on 63 patients newly delivered with respiratory distress and put on BCPAP from the period

Research paper thumbnail of Diagnostic value of serum procalcitonin level in differentiating bacterial from nonbacterial meningitis in children

PubMed, Dec 1, 2014

Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal dise... more Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its prognosis is critically dependent on rapid diagnosis and treatment. The use of biological markers, like procalcitonin, has been proposed to facilitate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was assessment the diagnostic values of serum procalcitonin (PCT) assay in the diagnosis and differentiation of acute bacterial from non bacterial meningitis. Methods: 45 patients with suspicion of meningitis were enrolled in the study and were clinically evaluated and investigated by lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, C-reactive protein and differential leukocyte count. Patients with clinical and laboratory suggestion of bacterial causes were regarded as bacterial meningitis group (29 patients), and those who were suggestive of nonbacterial causes were regarded as nonbacterial group (16 patients). Findings: Serum procalcitonin levels were significantly higher in bacterial meningitis group (637±325 pg/ml) compared with non-bacterial meningitis (380±170 pg/ml); P<0.001. Procalcitonin levels were more sensitive and specific (79%, 81%) than C-reactive protein (76%, 75%) and white blood cell count (72%, 75%) in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Conclusion: Elevated serum procalcitonin level could be a predictor of bacterial causes of meningitis and is more sensitive and specific than other diagnostic predictors.

Research paper thumbnail of Causes of Neonatal Re-admission in 24 hours after Cesarean Section

Kufa medical journal, Jun 15, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of * Corresponding Author; Diagnostic Value of Serum Procalcitonin Level in Differentiating Bacterial from Nonbacterial Meningitis in Children

Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal dise... more Objective: Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its prognosis is critically dependent on rapid diagnosis and treatment. The use of biological markers, like procalcitonin, has been proposed to facilitate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was assessment the diagnostic values of serum procalcitonin (PCT) assay in the diagnosis and differentiation of acute bacterial from non bacterial meningitis. Methods: 45 patients with suspicion of meningitis were enrolled in the study and were clinically evaluated and investigated by lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, C-reactive protein and differential leukocyte count. Patients with clinical and laboratory suggestion of bacterial causes were regarded as bacterial meningitis group (29 patients), and those who were suggestive of nonbacterial causes were regarded as nonbacterial group (16 patients). Findings: Serum procalcitonin lev...

Research paper thumbnail of Bubble Nasal CPAP in the Management of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (One Year Experience in Low Resources Unit) ‫ت‬ ‫تحت‬ ‫الخديج‬ ‫بقاء‬ ‫مدة‬ ‫وطول‬ ‫الجهاز‬ ‫وضع‬ ‫في‬ ‫التاخير‬ ‫و‬ ‫السينية‬ ‫االشعه‬ ‫ة‬ ‫صور‬ ‫في‬ ‫الشديدة‬ ‫التنفس‬ ‫عسر‬ ‫نسبه‬ ‫لد

Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficiency or dysf... more Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficiency or dysfunction of pulmonary surfactant. The use of CPAP for RDS Produces more regular breathing pattern, establishes and maintains functional residual capacity, decreases upper airway resistance, results in progressive alveolar recruitment, inflates collapsed alveoli and reduces intrapulmonary shunting, decreases upper airway collapsibility and reduces obstructive apneas, promotes the release of and conservation of surfactant on the alveolar surface. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of using bubble CPAP in the management of respiratory distress syndrome and to identify the risk factors associated with its failure. Patients and methods: 63 newborns who have been diagnosed as RDS were started on Bubble CPAP with bi-nasal prongs. Bubble CPAP was considered to be successful if the respiratory distress improved and the baby could be successfully weaned off from CPAP. Based on radiological fi...

Research paper thumbnail of “Neonatal Outcomes In A Level II Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit”

Pediatrics International, 2016

Improvement of neonatal mortality is a challenge in developing countries such as Iraq due to incr... more Improvement of neonatal mortality is a challenge in developing countries such as Iraq due to increased demand and overload of maternity services. The aim of this study was to document the number, disease patterns and outcome of admitted newborns and the improvement after implementation of clinical protocols, and to identify possible future target measures.

Research paper thumbnail of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Levels in Term Newborns with Hypoxic–Ischemic Encephalopathy

American Journal of Perinatology, 2016

Objective This study aims to evaluate the correlation of changes in serum insulin-like growth fac... more Objective This study aims to evaluate the correlation of changes in serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels with the clinical staging of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in term newborns. Study Design A prospective study of 29 newborns with HIE (stage I = 15, stage II + III = 14) and 28 healthy term newborns as the control group was performed in the neonatal intensive care unit. IGF-1 levels were obtained within 6 hours after birth from HIE and control groups and again on day 3 from HIE group. HIE was classified using the Sarnat staging I to III. Results IGF-1 levels were significantly lower in the HIE group than in the control group (p = 0.024). It was lower in the HIE stage II to III group compared with HIE stage I group at birth (p &lt; 0.0001) and on day 3 (p = 0.009). The mean IGF-1 levels were significantly higher on day 3 than on day 1 among stage II to III HIE (p = 0.006) and it was inversely correlated with staging (R = - 0.475, p = 0.009). There was a significant correlation between IGF-1 levels and Apgar score at 5 (R = 0.39, p = 0.042) and 10 minutes (R = 0.38, p = 0.035). Conclusions IGF-1 was lower in HIE and inversely correlated with clinical staging. It was increased with clinical improvement in the subsequent days.

Research paper thumbnail of A case report: Antenatal diagnosis of Rare Presentation of congenital Lober Emphysema

Research paper thumbnail of Short Term Neonatal Outcome following Spinal versus General Anesthesia for Repeated Elective Cesarean Section in Iraq

Background: With the increase in the rate of cesarean delivery worldwide and particularly in Iraq... more Background: With the increase in the rate of cesarean delivery worldwide and particularly in Iraq, the use of spinal anesthesia as a new alternative to general anesthesia was increasing to reach high rate in the last years. Objectives: To evaluate the influence of type of anesthesia used in cesarean delivery on the short term neonatal outcome in Iraqi population. Methods: A prospective comparative study of 437 pregnant women and their newborn babies were recruited in five categories according to the gestational ages. The mothers included have 36wk gestational age and go on, delivered by repeated elective CS, have single viable fetus and normal on going pregnancies. All mothers and newborn parameters were registered. The study population divided in to two groups depending on the type of anesthesia used; 246 cases with spinal and 191 with general anesthesia. Results: There was no difference in the mother's age, weight, parity, newborn 1 st minute Apgar score and type of anesthesia...

Research paper thumbnail of Impact of timing of the repeated elective cesarean section on the early neonatal outcomes

International Journal of Advanced Research

Research paper thumbnail of 5TH Europaediatrics 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Diagnostic value of serum procalcitonin level in differentiating bacterial from nonbacterial meningitis in children

Iranian Journal of Pediatrics

Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its pr... more Acute bacterial meningitis in pediatrics remains a serious and potentially lethal disease. Its prognosis is critically dependent on rapid diagnosis and treatment. The use of biological markers, like procalcitonin, has been proposed to facilitate the accuracy of the initial diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was assessment the diagnostic values of serum procalcitonin (PCT) assay in the diagnosis and differentiation of acute bacterial from non bacterial meningitis. 45 patients with suspicion of meningitis were enrolled in the study and were clinically evaluated and investigated by lumbar punctures for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, C-reactive protein and differential leukocyte count. Patients with clinical and laboratory suggestion of bacterial causes were regarded as bacterial meningitis group (29 patients), and those who were suggestive of nonbacterial causes were regarded as nonbacterial group (16 patients). Serum procalcitonin levels were significantly higher ...

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Maternal Supplementation with Iron on Neonatal Iron Status and Birth Weight

Background: Iron is an essential micronutrient that plays a significant role in critical cellular... more Background: Iron is an essential micronutrient that plays a significant role in critical cellular functions in all organ systems in all species. Iron is particularly vital for early brain growth and function in humans since it supports neuronal and glial energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis and myelination. Methods: 93 infants born through normal vaginal and cesarean delivery, enrolled in this study. According to maternal iron supplementation the sample divided in to two groups: iron supplemented group or a non-iron supplemented group. Women in the iron supplemented group consumed daily prenatal supplements. At the time of delivery, 5-ml of blood was obtained from the umbilical cord after early ligation of the cord, for each sample (Hb), (MCV), (RDW), (CBI) and (TIBC) was measured. Maternal age, Gestational age, parity birth weight, and baby sex were also recorded. Results: The mean of neonatal birth weight was higher in iron supplemented group (2589.29±638.74gm) than that ...

Research paper thumbnail of Cord Blood Lipid Profile in Premature, Near-Term and Term Newborn Infants

Introduction: The fetus needs a considerable amount of cholesterol for the development of tissues... more Introduction: The fetus needs a considerable amount of cholesterol for the development of tissues and organs. Studies have suggested that genetic and environmental factors influence the composition of cord blood lipoproteins. In this study, we aim to assess the effect of gestational age, sex and birth weight on the cord blood lipoproteins. Methods: We collected umbilical cord blood samples from 91 newborn infants, delivered normally, or by caesarean section. According to their gestational age, the samples were divided into 3 groups: the premature (≤ 34 weeks of gestational age), the near -term (35 – 37 weeks of gestational age), and the term group (≥ 38 weeks of gestational age). Serum was used to measure cholesterol, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) by the enzymatic auto-analyzer. SPSS 17 software was used for ANOVA test, Student t-test and Spearman correlation test. P-value less than 0.05 was regarded as significant. Results: The results of this study indicate that...

Research paper thumbnail of Bubble Nasal CPAP in the Management of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (One Year Experience in Low Resources Unit)

Abstract Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficienc... more Abstract Background: Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a clinical manifestation due to a deficiency or dysfunction of pulmonary surfactant. The use of CPAP for RDS Produces more regular breathing pattern, establishes and maintains functional residual capacity, decreases upper airway resistance, results in progressive alveolar recruitment, inflates collapsed alveoli and reduces intrapulmonary shunting, decreases upper airway collapsibility and reduces obstructive apneas, promotes the release of and conservation of surfactant on the alveolar surface. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of using bubble CPAP in the management of respiratory distress syndrome and to identify the risk factors associated with its failure. Patients and methods: 63 newborns who have been diagnosed as RDS were started on Bubble CPAP with bi-nasal prongs. Bubble CPAP was considered to be successful if the respiratory distress improved and the baby could be successfully weaned off from CPAP. Based on radiol...

Research paper thumbnail of Association between Low Cord Serum Cortisol Level and Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn in Late Preterm and Term Neonates Delivered by Elective Cesarean Section

American Journal of Perinatology

Objective Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), a common neonatal respiratory morbidity, is a... more Objective Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), a common neonatal respiratory morbidity, is associated with failure of adequate clearance of fetal lung fluid. Glucocorticoids have an important role in lung maturity and the mechanisms of lung fluid clearance. The aim of this study is to assess the association between umbilical cord cortisol levels and transient TTN in late preterm and term neonates delivered by elective cesarean section (CS). Study Design A case-control study of 37 newborns diagnosed with TTN (cases) was compared with 40 healthy newborns (controls). All infants were delivered by elective CS without labor. Umbilical cord cortisol levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Mean cord cortisol levels were significantly lower in cases than controls (131.36 vs. 233.32 nmol/L, p = 0.0001; odds ratio [OR] = 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.40–9.53), respectively. Cord serum cortisol correlated inversely with the duration of tachypnea and th...

Research paper thumbnail of Significance of Serum Procalcitonin Level in the Early Diagnosis of Neonatal Sepsis

Background: Sepsis in neonates presents itself with non-specific clinical features which makes ea... more Background: Sepsis in neonates presents itself with non-specific clinical features which makes early diagnosis difficult. However, procalcitonin (PCT) and other inflammatory markers have recently been considered as sensitive markers for the early detection of neonatal sepsis. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of PCT in the early detection of neonatal sepsis and compare it with C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cells count.Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 40 neonates who were divided into two groups. The case or sepsis group consisted of 18 neonates with the clinical symptoms of sepsis and positive culture. On the other hand, the control group contained 22 healthy neonates with negative culture. Demographic characteristic of all the participants was recorded during the clinical follow-up. Moreover, blood samples were collected from each neonate for hematological analysis, blood culture, serum CRP measurement, and PCT analysis...

Research paper thumbnail of Increased Nucleated Red Blood Cells in Infants of Diabetic Mothers

New Iraqi Journal of Medicine

Background: The erythroblasts or normoblast or nucleated red blood cells (NRBC) is an immature fo... more Background: The erythroblasts or normoblast or nucleated red blood cells (NRBC) is an immature form of the red blood cells a precursor of reticulocytes. The aim of the study was to find the normative value of NRBC in healthy term newborns in a sample of Iraqi people and to evaluate NRBC as a marker for chronic intra uterine fetal hypoxia in infants of diabetic mothers. Patient and method: In this prospective study a cord blood specimens of (130) term newborn were examined for nucleated red blood cell (NRBC) per 100 WBC. The cases divided in to two groups: First group includes (100) newborns of non diabetic mothers. Second group (30) newborns of diabetic mothers. Results: The mean value of NRBC per 100 WBC in infant of non diabetic mothers (control group) is (2.43). It was found that there is significant increased in mean of NRBC in the group II (infant of diabetic mothers) which is (18.5, p< 0.0001). It was concluded that in infants of diabetic mothers as the chronic intra uterin...

Research paper thumbnail of Rituximab For Sight-Threatening Refractory Pediatric Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease

Modern Rheumatology, 2015

ABSTRACT Rituximab was trialed in a refractory Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH). A 10-year-old ... more ABSTRACT Rituximab was trialed in a refractory Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH). A 10-year-old girl with panuveitis recalcitrant to treatment, including corticosteroids, was diagnosed with VKH 20 months later. Following Rituximab at 0, 1, 6, and 18 months, response was favorable after the second dose, usual life activity resumed after the third (uveitis was inactivated, vision improved), and eyes stabilized 9 months after the fourth. Rituximab is effective in the treatment and long-term control of advanced, pediatric VKH.

Research paper thumbnail of Erythroblastemia and thrombocytopenia in small for gestational age infants

Journal of the Faculty of Medicine, Baghdad

Research paper thumbnail of Effect Of Nasal Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure On Neonatal Mortality Rate In Iraqi Population in Al-Zahra'a Teaching Hospital in An'najaf city

Background: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a noninvasive method for applying a con... more Background: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a noninvasive method for applying a constant distending pressure level (above atmospheric) during inhalation and exhalation to support spontaneously breathing newborn infants with respiratory distress, The clinical goals of CPAP are to maintain the Functional Residual Capacity of the lungs and support gas exchange to reduce apnea, work of breathing, and lung injury. Aims: To show the effect of using CPAP in NICU on the neonatal morbidity and mortality. Method: A Clinical Trial study was carried out on 63 patients newly delivered with respiratory distress and put on BCPAP from the period