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Urinary tract infections in pregnancy caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria: An emerging therapeutic threat

1,2Ogban, G. I., *1,2Iwuafor, A. A., 3Idemudo, C. U., 2Ben, S. A., 4Ushie, S. N., and 1,2Emanghe, U. E.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology Main Laboratory, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria

3Department of Public Health, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria 4Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria *Correspondence to: tonyiwuafor@unical.edu.ng; +2348033441539

Abstract:
Background: Severe infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) have mortality rate exceeding 50%. On the strength of this, this study sought to determine the prevalence of urinary tract infection (UTI) in pregnancy caused by CRE and associated risk factors in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Nigeria, with the aim of making recommendations that can stem the tide of UTI caused by this bacterial strain in the hospital. Continue reading “Urinary tract infections in pregnancy caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria: An emerging therapeutic threat”

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Detection of microbial pathogens colonizing foot ulcers of diabetic patients in Enugu, Nigeria

*1Ugwu, O. B., 1Udeani, T. K. C., 2Anigbo, C. L., and 3Anigbo, C. S.
1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
2Livingston Specialist Hospital, Ituku Street, New Heaven, Enugu, Nigeria
3Department of Hematology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: cynthiaogochukwu@gmail.com; +234906496450

Abstract:
Background: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a major complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. There is high rate of bacteria colonization especially in those with tendencies for poor wound dressing. This is accompanied by high rate of inappropriate antibiotic usage. The aim of this study is to characterize microbial pathogens colonizing foot ulcers of diabetic patients in Enugu, Nigeria, and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility of these isolates.

Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of consecutively enrolled diabetic patients with foot ulcers in two tertiary healthcare facilities in Enugu, Nigeria, between May 2021 and February 2022. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic and clinical data of the patients. Pus samples and/or tissues were collected from the ulcer lesion of each patient for aerobic and anaerobic microbial cultures and biochemical identification using standard conventional techniques.

Results: A total of 310 diabetic patients with foot ulcers were recruited into the study, with 62.3% (193/310) males and 37.7% (117/310) females, and mean age of 56.0±13.9 years. Bacteria and yeast were isolated from samples of 280 (90.3%) patients while samples of 30 (9.7%) patients had no microbial growth. Males had higher frequency of microbial isolates (90.7%, 175/193) than females (89.7%, 105/117), while the age group ≤ 40 years had higher frequency of microbial isolates (100%, 43/43) compared to other age groups, although the differences are not statistically significant (p>0.05). The distribution of the isolates showed that 15.7% (44/280) were monomicrobial while 84.3% (236/280) were polymicrobial. The highest single isolate was Bacteroides fragilis with 5.0% (14/280), followed by Staphylococcus aureus with 3.2% (9/280). Bacteroides fragilis and S. aureus occurred as the highest combined bacteria isolates with 5.7% (16/280). Most of the patients were colonized by combination of bacterial isolates. The susceptibility indicates that most of the anaerobic bacteria were sensitive to metronidazole while S. aureus isolates were resistant to ofloxacin at a rate of 65.0%. Conclusion: The findings in this study showed that there is high bacteria and fungi colonization of foot ulcers of diabetic patients in Enugu, Nigeria. Routine care of wounds especially frequent changes of dressing materials and the use of potent antiseptics, are recommended.

Keywords: Diabetic foot ulcer; chronic wounds, polymicrobial, antimicrobial resistance

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Detection of microbial pathogens colonizing foot ulcers of diabetic patients in Enugu, Nigeria

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Phylogenetic diversity and susceptibility of Candida species from women using contraceptive devices in northcentral Nigeria

*1,2Adogo, L. Y., 2Chuku, A., 2Joseph, N. F., 3Ombugadu, A., 4,5Reuben, R. C., and 1,2Ajide, B.

1Department of Biological Sciences, Bingham University, Karu, Nigeria

2Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Lafia, Nigeria

3Department of Zoology, Federal University of Lafia, Nigeria

4German Centre of Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103, Leipzig, Germany 5Department of Experimental Interaction Ecology, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Puschstraße 4, 04103, Leipzig, Germany *Correspondence to: lillian.adogo@binghamuni.edu.ng

Abstract:
Background: The use of contraceptive devices predisposes women to vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) globally. Despite the high incidence of VVC and antifungal resistance to azoles, the genetic diversity and resistance pattern among contraceptive users in Nigeria is poorly investigated. This study therefore sought to characterize and determine the phylogenetic breadth of Candida species as well as their resistance to antifungal agents. Continue reading “Phylogenetic diversity and susceptibility of Candida species from women using contraceptive devices in northcentral Nigeria”

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Hydroxychloroquine and zinc ameliorate interleukin-6 associated hepato-renal toxicity induced by Aspergillus fumigatus in experimental rat models

*Okoye, J. O., Basil, A. T., Okoli, O. G., Achebe, P. O., Obi, C. M., and Ekekwe, N. E.
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: jog.okoye@unizik.edu.ng; +2347031119994; ORCID: 0000-0002-7194-5592

Abstract:
Background: In Nigeria, immunocompromised persons, particularly those living with HIV, are at an increased risk of developing invasive pulmonary aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus fumigatus. Interestingly, this condition produces symptoms that can be easily mistaken for those of COVID-19. This misdiagnosis results in their treatment with zinc and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). To better understand the pathophysiology of aspergillosis and determine the therapeutic and toxic effects of zinc and HCQ, this study examined liver and renal functions in experimental rat models.

Methodology: Twenty-eight Albino rats, randomised into 7 groups (n=4 each) designated A to G, were used for this study. Group A rats received standardized rat chow and distilled water only. Group B rats received moderate dose of HCQ only. Group C to G rats received immunosuppressive agents (an alkylating agent: cyclo- phosphamide and a steroid: hydrocortisone) to simulate an immunocompromised state before being infected with A. fumigatus suspension (AFS). Group C rats received AFS without treatment. Group D rats simultaneously received AFS and low dose of HCQ. Group E rats simultaneously received AFS and moderate dose of HCQ. Group F rats simultaneously received AFS and high dose of HCQ, and Group G rats simultaneously received AFS and moderate dose of HCQ and zinc. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10, liver enzymes, and renal parameters were measured using standard methods. The weights of the lungs, liver, and kidneys of each rat were measured after being sacrificed. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the means (±SD) of the biochemical variables and relative weight of the organs, while Post Hoc test was used for group comparison. Pearson’s correlation was used to determine relationship between parameters, with significant levels established at p<0.05. Continue reading “Hydroxychloroquine and zinc ameliorate interleukin-6 associated hepato-renal toxicity induced by Aspergillus fumigatus in experimental rat models”

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Molecular detection of hepatitis E virus among swine and poultry birds in Lagos, Nigeria

1,2Salu, O. B., 3,4Mutiu, B. P., 1Etok, M. J., 2Orenolu, M. R., 2Anyanwu, R. A., 2Abdullah, M. A., 3,5Saka, B. A., 3,6Abdus-Salam, I. A., 7Macaulay, R. M., 2,8Oyedeji, K. S., and *1,2,9Omilabu, S. A.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine University of Lagos (CMUL), P.M.B. 12003, Lagos, Nigeria

2Centre for Human and Zoonotic Virology (CHAZVY), Central Research Laboratory, College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL)/Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos, Nigeria

3Lagos State Bio-bank Laboratory, Mainland Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM), Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

5Centre for Biomedical Research Initiatives (CBRI), Nigeria

6Lagos State Ministry of Health (LSMOH), Alausa Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

7Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture (LSMOA), Alausa Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

8Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine University of Lagos (CMUL), P.M.B. 12003, Lagos, Nigeria

9Department of Microbiology, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, P.M.B. 2013, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: somilabu@unilag.edu.ng; Tel: +2348023119431

Abstract:
Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the only hepatitis virus that replicates in humans and a wide range of animal hosts, is a significant public health enteric virus with a growing trend of infection globally. The public and environmental implications associated with HEV as a zoonotic transmitted virus remain to be fully elucidated. Thus, with the limited information on HEV in other species other than humans in Nigeria, this study aimed to detect by molecular methods HEV among some livestock in Lagos, Nigeria. Continue reading “Molecular detection of hepatitis E virus among swine and poultry birds in Lagos, Nigeria”

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Antimicrobial resistance profiles of bacteria from Enterobacteriaceae family of laying chicken in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria

*1Ojja, C. V., 2Amosun, E. A., and 3Ochi, E. B.

1,2Avian Medicine Programme, Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute (Including Health and Agriculture), University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria

2Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria

3Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Juba, Juba, South Sudan *Correspondence to: ojja.christopher@paulesi.org.ng; vukenichris170@gmail.com; +211923419563

Abstract:
Background: Antibiotics are significant for improving the health and productivity of chickens, but overuse and misuse of antibiotics have led to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which has resulted in ineffective treatment of infectious diseases with associated mortality in chicken and potential spread of AMR pathogens to humans. The objective of the study was to evaluate the AMR profiles of Enterobacteriaceae from faecal samples of laying chicken in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria. Continue reading “Antimicrobial resistance profiles of bacteria from Enterobacteriaceae family of laying chicken in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria”

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Evaluation of antimicrobial properties of five medicinal plants used against bacterial infections in Jalingo, Nigeria

*1Zenoh, D. A., 2Josephus, B., 3Halley, N., 1Endurance Okpan., 1Henry Chukwuemeka., and 1Akumbo Gemenen

1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Nigeria
2Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Nigeria
3Federal Medical Center Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria
*Correspondence to: zenoh.d@tsuniversity.edu.ng; +234 8053852525

Abstract:
Background: The prevalent utilization of medicinal plants in communities underscores their promise as antimicrobial agents amid rising antibiotic resistance. This study assesses five medicinal plants; Bambusa vulgaris, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Heteropogon contortus, Moringa oleifera, and Carica papaya against clinical isolates of Salmonella Typhi and Shigella dysenteriae. Continue reading “Evaluation of antimicrobial properties of five medicinal plants used against bacterial infections in Jalingo, Nigeria”

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Isolation and biocontrol of bacteriophages from wastewater in the city of Lomé, Togo: potential application as a novel source for antimicrobial therapy

1Ouedraogo, A. K., *1Hoekou, Y., 2Gbekley, H. E., 1Pissang, P., 1Kpatagnon K., 1Sossou, K., 2Melila, M., 3Djeri, B., and 1Tchacondo, T.

1Laboratory of Biomedical and Food Sciences and Environmental Health, Advanced School of Biological and Food Processing Techniques, Université de Lomé, Togo
2Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of the Department of Biochemistry, Université de Lomé, Togo
3Laboratory of Microbiology and Food Quality Control, Advanced School of Biological and Food Processing Techniques, Université de Lomé, Togo

*Correspondence to: yhoekou@gmail.com; 0022890259591

Abstract:
Background: Bacteriophages offer one of the most promising solutions to the challenges of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria. The aim of this study is to investigate bacteriophages as a source of new antimicrobial therapy.

Methodology: Waste water samples were randomly collected from 8 different locations in the city of Lomé for bacteriophage isolation. The phages were isolated using multi-resistant clinical isolates (Escherichia coli 1642 and Staphylococcus aureus 0868) as hosts by means of a spot test. The host range of the phages was determined also by a spot test using 8 other clinical bacterial isolates including two reference strains (E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 29213). The virulence of the phages and their effects on bacterial growth were assessed by in vitro experiments using E. coli 1642 BBec phage suspension. Continue reading “Isolation and biocontrol of bacteriophages from wastewater in the city of Lomé, Togo: potential application as a novel source for antimicrobial therapy”

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Aerobic vaginitis in women seen at the laboratory of the university hospital of Befelatanana, Antananarivo, Madagascar

*1Rakotovao-Ravahatra, Z. D., 2Razanadrakoto, I. I., 2Rafaramalala, S. S., 3Rakotovao, A. L., and 3Rasamindrakotroka, A.

1Laboratory of Joseph Raseta Befelatanana, University Hospital, Antananarivo, Madagascar

2Malagasy Medical Analysis Laboratory, Androhibe, Antananarivo, Madagascar

3Medical Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antananarivo, Madagascar

*Correspondence to: ravahatradomoina@yahoo.fr; +261 34 09 301 20

Abstract:
Background: Vaginitis is common in women. The present study aims to identify the factors associated with aerobic vaginitis (AV) in women and evaluate the antibiotic resistance of bacteria responsible for this vaginitis.

Methodology: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 840 patients and analysis of the results of their cytobacteriological examinations of cervicovaginal samples from January 01, 2020 to December 31, 2022 at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Joseph Raseta Befelatanana (CHUJRB) laboratory, Antananarivo, Mada- gascar. Continue reading “Aerobic vaginitis in women seen at the laboratory of the university hospital of Befelatanana, Antananarivo, Madagascar”

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HIV status of individuals who underwent pre-employment medical screening at a federal tertiary health institution in southeast Nigeria

1Ehidiamhen, F. E., 2Agwu, U. M., *3Eze, G. O., 1Ogbata, S. E., 4Chukwu, C. G., 1Akujobi, C. N., and 5Nnoli, M. A,

1Department of Pathology, David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, PMB 337, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

2Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, PMB 337, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

3Department of Clinical Sciences and Training, David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, PMB 337, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

4Department of Planning, Research and Statistics, David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, PMB 337, Uburu, Ebonyi State Nigeria 5Department of Pathology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: godsoneze46@gmail.com; +2348066656631; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1776-1036

Abstract:
Background: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) targets the host immune system, particularly the CD4 T cells. The host resistance to opportunistic and non-opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, severe bacterial infections, and several malignancies is weakened as a result of destruction of these CD4 cells by HIV. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of HIV among individuals who participated in pre-employment medical screening at David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, with the aim of connecting those who are HIV-positive to voluntary counseling and treatment programs. Continue reading “HIV status of individuals who underwent pre-employment medical screening at a federal tertiary health institution in southeast Nigeria”