SCHOOL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Radiology request forms (RRFs) are crucial tools that facilitate communication between referring clinicians and radiology departments, ensuring appropriate and justified imaging studies. When these forms are poorly completed, it can lead to diagnostic mistakes, treatment delays, unnecessary radiation exposure, and increased healthcare costs. This study evaluated how thoroughly referring physicians completed RRFs at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and RayTouch Diagnostic Center in Benin City. A retrospective review of 1,600 forms submitted from June to November 2024 assessed key elements such as patient data, clinical background, requested imaging,and physician information. Completion rates were generally high—83.2% for patient identification, 94.2% for clinical history, 95.2%forimaging requests, and 94.9% for physician details—with UBTH performing better overall. Nevertheless, notable gaps, especially inpatient identification, were observed. Survey responses from21healthcare professionals revealed that incomplete forms often led to repeated tests, diagnostic errors, and operational inefficiencies. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between the two facilities. These results highlight the importance of implementing electronic RRF systems, ongoing training for clinicians, and institutional policies to improve documentation. Such measures could enhance diagnostic precision, reduce unnecessary procedures, and improve patient safety.

Reports indicate that cerebellar disorders are induced by exposure to heavy metals, such as Mercury, via oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and Purkinje cell apoptosis, thus disrupting motor coordination and cognitive processing. Catechin (CA), a flavonoid in green tea, exhibits antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a potential therapeutic agent against heavy metal toxicity. This study investigated the activity of catechin in the cerebellum of Wistar rats exposed to Mercury chloride. Sixty-four Wistar rats were randomly assigned into eight groups (n=8), and treated for twenty-eight days, as follows; A (control), B (5 mg/kg body weight [bw] of mercury chloride [HgCl2]), C (10 mg/kg bw of CA and HgCl2), D (20 mg/kg bw of CA and HgCl2), E (200 mg/kg bw of Vitamin E and HgCl2), F (10 mg/kg bw of Catechin only), G (20 mg/kg bw of Catechin only) and H (200 mg/kg bw of Vitamin E only). Thereafter, weights, neurobehavioral activities, mercury concentration, antioxidant enzymes activity, lipid peroxidation, and histology of the cerebellum were assessed. In-silico studies were utilized to investigate multi-targeted protective potential of catechin, by assessing its interactions with key mediators of inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Findings showed that HgCl₂ treatment significantly decreased (p<0.05) body weight and antioxidant enzymes, while significantly increasing (p<0.05) lipid peroxidation, mercury concentration, and neurobehavioral deficits, with cerebellar histology revealing Purkinje cell alterations, vacuolations, and pyknotic nuclei. Conversely, groups pre-treated with CA showed an attenuation of the HgCl2-induced adverse effects. In-silico results showed catechin bound more strongly to Nrf2, TNF-α, IL-6, NF-ĸB, and Caspase-3 than amantadine and riluzole, highlighting its multi-targeted antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic potential.
This study highlights catechin as a safe, natural therapeutic for HgCl2-induced cerebellar disorder, offering a promising alternative to conventional drugs with fewer side effects Furtherstudies exploring the translational application of catechin in clinical trials are recommended

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Since the beginning of the epidemic, approximately ninety-one million four hundred thousand people have been infected with HIV, and about forty-four million one hundred thousand have died from AIDS-related illnesses. Globally, in 2024, forty million eight hundred thousand people were living with HIV, six hundred thirty thousand people died from AIDS-related illnesses, and one million three hundred thousand people were newly infected with HIV. Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/ Lamivudine/Dolutegravir (TLD) is one of the therapeutic regimens used in the management of HIV infection. This study assessed the effects of TLD on the histomorphometric and reproductive parameters of the ovary, uterus, and placenta of adult Wistar rats. A total of fifty adult female Wistar rats, weighing between 140 g and 194 g, were used for the study. The rats were randomly assigned to control and treated groups, consisting of twenty-five rats, and were further subdivided into five subgroups of five rats each. Both groups received growers mash and distilled water; however, the treated group was administered a daily oral dose of a combination drug consisting of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (5 mg/kg body weight), Lamivudine (5 mg/kg body weight), and Dolutegravir (0.8 mg/kg body weight) via an orogastric tube. After ninety days of TLD administration, animals with regular four-day estrous cycles were weighed and mated. The animals were categorized into pregestational, gestational, and postnatal groups. The pregestational group was used to evaluate the effects of TLD on antioxidant status, hormonal profile, and histomorphometry of the ovary and uterus. The gestational group was used to assess implantation/resorption, and placenta parameters, while the postnatal group was used to evaluate litter size, litter weight, intrauterine and neonatal death, growth retardation, and congenital anomalies. This study reveals that TLD treatment resulted in a significant decrease in body weight (p < 0.05) but did not significantly affect ovarian, uterine weights and uterine horn length (p > 0.05). Ovarian antioxidant status showed no significant changes; however, the uterus exhibited reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) activities. The placenta showed significantly reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Serum testosterone levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in litter number, implantation sites, or number of placenta (p > 0.05). However, litter size and placenta weights were significantly reduced, with evidence of intrauterine growth retardation and low birth weight. Histological findings revealed impaired follicular maturation characterized by atretic follicles, follicular and luteal cysts, narrowing of the endometrial cavity, and thickened endometrium in the treated group. Additionally, dilation, congestion, and vacuolation of the feto-maternal vascular bed were observed. In conclusion, TLD exerted notable adverse effects on reproductive parameters in female Wistar rats, suggesting the need for caution in its use among women of reproductive age

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is Oxidative stress and inflammation are interconnected thatcontribute to a tropical fruit renowned for its hydrating qualities and rich nutritional content. It contains vital micronutrients such as vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as minerals and phytochemicals like lycopene and L-citrulline. These bioactive compounds possess significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to maintaining normal physiological function and protecting body systems from oxidative damage. Several studies have reported that natural fruit extracts, including watermelon juice, can enhance behavioral responses and regulate biochemical and hematological indices under oxidative or inflammatory stress conditions (Perkins-Veazie & Collins, 2021; Olayemi et al., 2020). physiological disturbances tissue injury, aging, and disease development. An imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the body’s antioxidant defenses can result in cellular damage affecting major organs, particularly the brain and circulatory system (Adebayo et al., 2019). Such pathological conditions often impair locomotor performance and alter blood and immune parameters. Therefore, evaluating the influence of watermelon juice—a naturally antioxidant-rich beverage—offers valuable insights into dietary interventions that may alleviate oxidative damage and preserve normal physiological functions.

Self-medication, defined as the use of medication without medical consultation, is prevalent among women of reproductive age globally and presents notable heath concerns. This study assess the knowledge, practices and influencing factors of self-medication among women aged 15-49 in Uselu Community, Benin City, Nigeria. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were gathered from 323 respondents through a structured questionnaire, with findings analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results revealed that 86.69% of respondents had prior knowledge of self-medication, often acquired from internet/social media, family, and friends. Despite this awareness, 95.67% had engaged in self-medication within the past year, primarily for minor ailments such as headaches, menstrual pain, and other minor ailments. Analgesics (41.17%) and antibiotics (39.32%) were the most commonly used drugs, with many respondents self-medicating frequently. Influential factors included financial constraints, convenience, ease of access to over-the-counter medications, and long wait times at healthcare facilities. Additionally, social and cultural factors played a role, as family influence and traditional beliefs often guided self-medication practices. This study highlights significant risks associated with this practice, including adverse drug reactions, potential for antimicrobial resistance, and complications in pregnancy, thereby underscoring the need for educational interventions.Recommendations include increasing awareness of the dangers of unsupervised medication use and strengthening regulatory frameworks to limit easy access to potentially harmful drugs. This research study contributes to public health by emphasizing the need for targeted health education and accessible healthcare services to mitigate the adverse effects of selfmedication within this demographic. Keywords: Self-medication, knowledge, women of reproductive age, Nigeria, practice

Bilateral orchidectomy is a surgical procedure usually carried out for males with prostate cancer and other diseases affecting both testes. This study was carried out to observe the effect of bilateral orchidectomy on the gonadotropin hormones, (LH, FSH), PRL and the steroid hormones, (Progesterone, Testosterone and Oestrogen). Ten (10) male Wistar rats were used for the experiment. The rats were divided into two experimental groups: 1- control (Co) (n=5), 2 - Treatment group (Tr) (n=5). The rats in the treatment group were bilaterally orchidectomized under chloroform anaesthesia. The rats were sacrificed after 4 weeks. Blood samples were collected from the IVC and assayed for LH, FSH, Prolactin, Progesterone, Testosterone and Oestrogen hormones. The study showed that bilateral orchidectomy increased serum levels of LH and FSH concentrations (3.247±0.152 and
1.177±0.039) which were statistically significant (p<0.05). There was no change in the serum level of Prolactin (p>0.05). However there was statistically significant decrease (p<0.05) in the serum concentrations of Progesterone, Testosterone and Oestrogen. This study showed that bilateral orchidectomy increased serum level of LH and FSH, the two hormones principally required for stimulating Testosterone production and spermatogenesis respectively. The sex steroids, Progesterone, Testosterone and Oestrogen were decreased. Testosterone is needed for spermatogenesis and in conjunction, FSH results in spermiation. The decrease in testosterone therefore may lead to infertility in the castrated rats.

Computed Tomography (CT) has become indispensable in modern diagnostics, yet it exposes patients to relatively high doses of ionizing radiation that may pose long-term health risks. This study assessed the level of knowledge and awareness of radiation hazards among patients undergoing CT examinations in selected diagnostic facilities within Benin City, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 200 respondents using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The instrument contained sections on demographic characteristics, knowledge of CT radiation, and awareness of radiation-related health risks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a significance level of p < 0.05. Findings revealed generally poor knowledge of CT-related radiation among patients. Only 28.5% correctly identified that CT employs ionizing radiation, while 32% recognized that CT delivers higher doses than conventional X-rays. Awareness of the ALARA principle was particularly low (14%). Although 42% of respondents acknowledged that radiation could have internal health effects, many were uncertain about cumulative exposure risks and the vulnerability of pregnant women and children. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between knowledge and demographic factors such as age (p = 0.014), educational level (p = 0.001), and occupation (p = 0.034), while gender showed no significant relationship (p = 0.072). The study concludes that most CT patients in Benin City possess inadequate knowledge and limited awareness of radiation hazards, which could hinder informed decision-making and safe imaging practices. It recommends that radiographers and radiologists provide structured pre-examination counseling, strengthen patient-education programs, and adopt policy-based communication standards to improve radiation literacy

Chest radiography is an important diagnostic method in evaluating thoracic diseases, especially among elderly patients where cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders are prevalent. However, the extent to which radiological findings correspond with clinicians’ preliminary diagnoses varies. This study assessed the correspondence between clinical and radiological diagnoses in chest X-ray examinations among elderly patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using 204 chest X-ray records of patients aged 60 years and above. Data on age, gender, clinical diagnosis, radiological findings, and correspondence (Yes/No) were extracted and analyzed using SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while chi-square and independent-samples t-tests determined associations at a significance level of p < 0.05. The mean age of patients was 64.98 ± 5.20 years, with 138 (69.3%) females and 61 (30.7%) males. The most frequent clinical diagnosis was hypertension 37 (18.1%), while normal chest 65 (31.9%) was the commonest radiological finding. 130 (65.7%) of cases showed correspondence between clinical and radiological diagnoses. A significant association existed between clinical and radiological correspondence (χ² = 122.77, df = 83, p = 0.003). The t-test showed a significant difference in mean age between corresponding and non-corresponding groups (t(192) = -2.20, p = 0.029). A moderate to high diagnostic correspondence (65.7%) was observed, indicating that chest radiography remains valuable in confirming or excluding thoracic pathology among elderly patients. Diagnostic accuracy was higher among younger elderly patients (60–65 years) compared to those above 70 years

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of stroke and it's associated risk factors among patients admitted at the neurological ward of University of a tertiary health facility. The objectives this research work aims to determine the prevalence of Cerebrovascular accident, identify the associated risk factors, determine the percentage of stroke survivors and distribution of mortality rate. The study employed a retrospective descriptive survey design method. The area of study was the neurology
ward in the University of Benin Teaching hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Of a total population of two thousand three hundred and thirty-nine patients admitted, one thousand three hundred and ninety-seven patients were diagnosed of CVA and their data was collated. Purposive sampling technique was used. A well-structured checklist was used to elicit items relevant to the research objectives. The study showed that the prevalence of CVA was 58.9% of the total population, and the most prevalent risk factors were hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The percentage of survivors was 69.4% and the distribution of mortality was highest amongst the males, age group 50-69, married patients, tertiary level of education, Christians, and Bini. The study therefore recommends that community education on lifestyle modifications, beneficial nutritional practices, maintaining appropriate body weight should be ensured. Also health workers should make anthropometric measurements, blood pressure and blood glucose level a routine procedure to ensure prompt treatment and eradication of these risk factors.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant opportunistic pathogen and a public health concern due to its multidrug-resistant nature and potential for zoonotic transmission. This study investigated the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of MRSA in apparently healthy dogs in Ekosodin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 160 dogs were sampled, and nasal swabs were processed using standard microbiological techniques. Staphylococcus aureus isolates were identified based on colonial morphology, Gram staining, and biochemical tests (catalase and coagulase). Methicillin resistance was determined phenotypically using cefoxitin (30 µg), while antibacterial susceptibility testing was performed using the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Out of the 160 dogs sampled, 146 (91.3%) were positive for S. aureus, and 142 (97.3%) were confirmed as MRSA, corresponding to an overall MRSA prevalence of 88.8%. MRSA carriage was highest in dogs aged 0–1 year (100%), and gender had no significant effect on prevalence. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed high resistance among MRSA isolates to amoxicillin, erythromycin, cefuroxime, ceftazidime, gentamicin, streptomycin, azithromycin, and fluoroquinolones, with partial sensitivity retained for rifampicin (58.1%), ciprofloxacin
(46.5%), and levofloxacin (51.2%). MSSA isolates were generally more susceptible, showing statistically significant higher sensitivity to ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, erythromycin, and cefuroxime (with p-value of 0.047, 0.004 and 0.005 respectively). These findings highlight the widespread carriage of multidrug-resistant MRSA among dogs in the study area, underscoring the need for prudent antibiotic use, improved hygiene, and public awareness to mitigate potential zoonotic transmission.