DEPARTMENT OF RADIOGRAPHY

Background: Radiographic contrast agents are widely used for diagnostic enhancement, yet concerns remain about their toxic effects on vital organs. Statement of Problem: Despite the popularity of contrast media as a radiological technique, the possible systemic and organ-level impact of this method has not been properly examined, particularly in Nigeria. Thus, the research assesses and contrasts the biological effects of selected contrast agents use in Wistar-rats so as to support the evidence that can be used to guide the use of safer contrast media that is evidence-based. Aim: This experimental study compared the biochemical, histopathological, and behavioral effects of ionic (Urographin) and non-ionic (Iohexol) contrast media on Wistar rats. Methods: Nine rats were randomized into three groups: control, Urographin, and Iohexol. Kidney and liver markers, body weight, and behavior were assessed, followed by histological evaluation. Results: Urographin produced higher renal stress, with urea increasing from 36.4 to 41.3 mg/dL (+13.5%) and creatinine rising from 3.98 to 4.15 mg/dL (+4.3%) compared to Iohexol (urea 40.1 mg/dL, +10.2%; creatinine 4.05 mg/dL, +1.8%). Kruskal–Wallis analysis showed borderline group differences for creatinine (p = 0.0628), sodium (p = 0.0628), and potassium (p = 0.0594), while other renal markers were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Hepatic markers showed a marked increase in AST with Urographin (96.9 to 162.5 U/L, +67.7%; p ≈ 0.0665), compared to Iohexol (119.9 U/L, +23.7%), while ALT changes were modest (p > 0.05). Total bilirubin increased by 22.1% in the Urographin group versus 8.6% in the Iohexol group. Body weight declined significantly more with Urographin (−5.8%) than Iohexol (−2.0%), with a borderline statistical trend (p = 0.064). Behaviorally, both agents caused reduced activity, piloerection, and appetite loss, but these signs were more severe in the Urographin group. Histopathology revealed mild hepatitis and pyelonephritis in Iohexol-treated rats, compared to zonal necrosis, vascular congestion, and glomerular degeneration in Urographin-treated rats. Conclusion: Both contrast media induced biochemical and tissue injury, but Urographin demonstrated greater toxic potential. Iohexol may therefore be considered the safer alternative for contrast-enhanced procedures.

The paper determined the attitudes and perceptions of radiographers towards patients with HIV/AIDS in the selected hospitals within Edo State, Nigeria. The cross- sectional was a descriptive design and 60 registered radiographers were selected, which included the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo Specialist Hospital and Raytouch Diagnostics. The structured and self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data which were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 30.0. The findings showed that the attitude and perception of radiographers towards HIV/AIDS patients were generally positive as indicated by high mean score of compliance to universal precautions (Mean = 4.07) and fairness to patients (Mean = 3.78). However, some neutral answers revealed some remaining fear, lack of trust in regular routine HIV care and difficulty with poor facilities. The correlation between the years of practice (Spearman = 0.016, p = 0.902) and attitude was not significant, which indicated that the years of experience did not define positive attitudes alone. The research established that the radiographers are characterized by a commendable professionalism with regard to HIV/AIDS patients but need the unceasing training and enhanced institutional subsidies to uphold this standard. It suggests continuous professional growth, enhanced infection-control facilities, and stigma-reduction measures in order to boost the confidence and quality of care delivery of radiographers

This study assessed the public perception and awareness of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool beyond pregnancy among undergraduate students in the University of Benin, Ugbowo campus. Although ultrasound is widely recognized for its use in obstetric imaging, its broader diagnostic applications remain underappreciated by the public. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design
was adopted, targeting students from the Faculties of Arts, Life Sciences, and Basic Medical Sciences. Using a stratified random sampling method, a total of 327 questionnaires were distributed and completed. Data were collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Findings revealed that 60.24% of respondents were female, while the majority (53.21%) were between 20 and 23 years old. Most respondents (40.37%) were from the Faculty of Arts, with the 300-level students contributing the largest group (24.46%). The study showed that although most students were aware of ultrasound as a tool for pregnancy monitoring, their knowledge of its use in other diagnostic areas such as abdominal, cardiac, and musculoskeletal examinations was limited. Despite this, respondents generally perceived ultrasound positively, describing it as safe, affordable, and advantageous
compared to other imaging modalities like CT and MRI. The study concludes that while awareness of ultrasound beyond pregnancy remains inadequate, students hold favorable attitudes toward its diagnostic potential. It recommends strengthening health education initiatives, integrating basic diagnostic imaging information into university health programs, and organizing awareness campaigns to broaden public understanding of ultrasound’s diverse clinical applications.