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Feb20
cavitation
Cavity: a cavity is gas containing space with in the lung surrounded by a wall greater than 1mm thick (a gas containing space possessing wall 1mm or thinner is a bulla). The wall thickness up to 5mm is benign and between 5 to 15 mm may be benign or malignant and above 15mm is definitely malignant. see example in photo album nazira x-ray


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Feb20
cavity
Cavity: a cavity is gas containing space with in the lung surrounded by a wall greater than 1mm thick (a gas containing space possessing wall 1mm or thinner is a bulla). The wall thickness up to 5mm is benign and between 5 to 15 mm may be benign or malignant and above 15mm is definitely malignant.


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Feb14
case history of kamlesh
Kamlesh aged 17 years female from dwaraka delhi attened opd in very critical condition. Now after three months of treatment she improved a lot. Compare x-rays which are in photo album


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Feb07
This Smartphone Attachment developed which Can Test for HIV and Syphilis in 15 Minutes working as mini laboratory first time in world
This Smartphone Attachment developed which Can Test for HIV and Syphilis in 15 Minutes working as mini laboratory first time in world
PROF.DRRAM ,HIV/AIDS,SEX Diseases, Weakness & Hepatitis Expert
profdrram@gmail.com,+917838059592,+919832025033,DELHI,INDIA
HIV/ AIDS,CANCER MODERN MEDICINES AVAILABLE AT CHEAP RATE.
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A smartphone accessory that can detect HIV and syphilis has been developed by Columbia University researchers.The low-cost device can spot markers of the infectious diseases from a finger prick of blood in 15 minutes. It’s the first smartphone accessory that replicates all the functions of a laboratory-based blood test, according to the researchers.
The device was tested by health care workers in Rwanda who used it to analyze blood samples from 96 patients. The health care workers were given 30 minutes of training on the device, and 97 percent of the patients had a positive response to the device.
The findings were published Feb. 4 in the journal Science Translational Medicine.
“Our work shows that a full laboratory-quality immunoassay can be run on a smartphone accessory,” team leader Samuel Sia, an associate professor of biomedical engineering at Columbia Engineering, said in a university news release.
“This kind of capability can transform how health care services are delivered around the world,” Sia added.
However, one expert was more cautious about the possibilities of the device.
“This is a new technology that uses smartphones to detect antibodies against HIV and syphilis. Although an encouraging development, there are significant limitations, such as comparison with confirmatory tests in standardized laboratories,” said Dr. Ambreen Khalil, an infectious disease specialist at Staten Island University Hospital, in Staten Island, N.Y.
Khalil noted that the device might work well in areas where it is hard to get adequate health care and medical resources are limited.
“It would be interesting to evaluate its performance in other settings as well,” Khalil said.
The device—called a dongle—is small and light enough to fit into a hand, uses little power and will cost about $34 to make, according to the researchers.
“Our dongle presents new capabilities for a broad range of users, from health care providers to consumers,” Sia said.
“By increasing detection of syphilis infections, we might be able to reduce deaths by 10-fold. And for large-scale screening, where the dongle’s high sensitivity with few false negatives is critical, we might be able to scale up HIV testing at the community level with immediate antiretroviral therapy that could nearly stop HIV transmissions and approach elimination of this devastating disease,” he added.


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Jan16
ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME
ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME
Dr.S.ABBAS ALI
MD, DFM, DNB, MNAMS
FCGP, MCCP (Cardiology)
PGDHSc(Ultrasonography)
PGDHSc(Echocardiogram)
DEFINITION
ACS includes Unstable angina and evolving MI which share a common underlying pathology – plague rupture, thrombosis and inflammation. It results from reduction of flow through the affected epicardidal coronary artery. The flow reduction may be caused by completely occlusive thrombus or sub totally occlusive thrombus. A totally occlusive thrombus results in STEMI and a sub totally occlusive thrombus results in NSTEMI. Management of ACS is beyond the limit of Family physician and during evolution history and all risk factors should noted and diagnosed confidently and then refer to tertiary health care.
RISK FACTORS
NON MODIFIABLE MODIFIABLE Controversial risk factors
Age
Gender
Family history of IHD or premature death or MI in first degree relative Smoking
Hypertension
Diabetes
Hyperlipidemia
Obesity
Sedentary life styles
Poor oral hygiene
Cocaine use
Stress
Type A personality Raised Apolipoprotein
Raised homocysteine
Raised fibrinogen
Hyperinsulinemia
ACE genotype
TYPES
• STEMI (ST segment elevation MI)- results from totally occlusive thrombus of epicardial coronary artery.
• NSTEMI (non ST segment elevation MI) – results from subtotal occlusion of epicardial coronary artery.
ST SEGEMENT ELEVATION MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
1. There is total occlusion of the epicardial coronary
artery
2. The thrombus is fibrin rich hence called red
thrombus. Fibrinolytics are drug of choice
3. there is macro-infarction and time bound necrosis
of myocardium
4. Early reperfusion is the key to treatment
CLINICAL FEATURES
• Sudden onset of chest pain – substernal may radiate, pain lost for 30 minutes and it is not relieved by rest or sublingual nitrates. There may be associated dyspnoea, sweating, weakness, vomiting along with clinical features of cardiac failure.
• ECG FEATURES: patients with STEMI present with ST segment elevation. Many may ultimately develop a Q wave on the ECG. Those who undergo a successful fibrinolysis or primary PCI may not develop a Q wave on the ECG. A new onset LBBB with classical chest pain is also considered STEMI Fibrinolysis or primary PCI is the treatment of choice.
TREATMENT – immediate in the first 30 minutes
• If the chest pain is typical ACS give 325 mg of aspirin (not enteric coated) to be chewed (if there is no aspirin allergy)
• Clopidogrel 300 mg stat
• Sub lingual nitrates if HR >50 and <100/minute ; SBP >90 or if there is no BP fall of > 30 from base line (b) no prior sildenefil intake for 24 hours or Tadalafit for 48 hours © No RV infarction
• Sedation IV morphine 5-10mg +metoclopramide 10mg iv (not IM because of risk of bleeding with thrombolysis)
• Arrange emergency ambulance
• Re-assurance
• O2 inhalation – in icu
• Firbrinolytics or primary PCI
NON ST SEGMENT ELEVATION MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
• It results from sub-total critical occlusion of the epicardial coronary artery
• The thrombus is platelet rich hence called white thrombus. Hence fibrinolytics are contraindicated. Anticoagulants (UFH/LMWH), antiplatelets and other cardiac medications are treatment of choice
• The distinction between USA/NSTEMI is made by the presence or absence of serum cardiac marker such as Treponin
• There is a micro-infarction, hence treponin is done.
• The myocardium is still viable with high possiblity of developing necrosis, if the occlusion becomes total
• The risk determines intervention
CLINICAL FEATURES:
• PAIN is similar to anginal pain but may be more severe usually lasting upto 20 minutes. Pain is present at rest, there may be decreasing tolerance for exertion,
• clinical signs may be unremarkable. If some patients with large area of myocardial ischaemia or a large NSTEMI the physical findings can include diaphoresis, pale cool skin, tachycardia, S3,S4 or murmur of papillary dysfunction, basal rales and some time hypotension resembling large STEMI
DIAGNOSIS
For diagnosis at least three of four diagnostic tool required for general physician.
• Clinical history
• ECG
• Cardiac biomarkers
• Stress testing or angiography (optional)
ECG: In UA, ST-segment depression, transient ST-segment elevation, and/or T-wave inversion occur in 30 to 50% of patients. These patients do not develop Q waves. Both are differentiated by presence of treponin in blood. If Treponin levels are high then it is called NSTEMI and If treponin levels were normal then it is called Unstable angina. In patients with the clinical features of UA, the presence of new ST-segment deviation, even of only 0.05 mV, is an important predictor of adverse outcome. T-wave changes are sensitive for ischemia but less specific, unless they are new, deep T-wave inversions ( 0.3 mV).
CARDIAC ENZYMES OR CARDIAC BIOMARKERS
• Treponin T and I: cardiac Treponin T and I are the most sensitive and specific markers of myocardial necrosis. Serum levels increase within 3-12 hours from the onset of chest pain. If normal after 6 hours and ECG normal the risk of missing MI is very tiny.
• CK-MB: the levels raise with in 3-12 hours.
• Myoglobin: the levels raise with 1-4 hours from the onset of chest pain. They highly sensitive but not specific.
OTHER INVESTIGATIONS REQUIRED
x-ray chest PAview
haemogram
lipid profiles
liver profiles
serum electrolytes
blood sugar fasting and pp
HBA1c
Serum calcium Serum uric acid
FT4 FT3 TSH
Blood urea@serum creatinine
Serum Vitamin D
Serum B12
Serum testosterone
Prothrombin time and APTT
TREATMENT – IMMEDIATE WITH IN 30 MINUTES
• If the chest pain is typical ACS give 325 mg of aspirin (not enteric coated) to be chewed (if there is no aspirin allergy)
• Clopidogrel 300 mg stat
• Sub lingual nitrates if HR >50 and <100/minute ; SBP >90 or if there is no BP fall of > 30 from base line (b) no prior sildenefil intake for 24 hours or Tadalafit for 48 hours © No RV infarction
• Sedation IV morphine
• Re-assurance
• Firbrinolytics should not be given. LMWH or UFH or Fondaprinax can be given
• Conservative or invasive tretment depends upon risk stratification (TIMI score)
TIMI SCORE: TIMI risk score is simple tool composed of 7 (1 point) risk indicators rated on presentation
• Age 65 years or above
• At least 3 risk factors of CAD
• Prior coronary stenosis of 50% or more
• ST Segment deviation on ECG presentation
• At least 2 anginal events in prior 24 hours
• Use of aspirin in prior 7 days
• Elevated serum cardiac biomarkers


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Jan12
PALLIATIVE CARE IN FAMILY PRACTICE AND BENIFITS TO PATIENTS
PALLIATIVE CARE IN FAMILY PRACTICE AND BENIFITS TO PATIENTS

Dr.S.Abbas Ali
MD,DFM,DNB,MNAMS
PGDHSc (Echocardiogram)
PGDHSc (Ultrasonography)
FCGP, MCCP(Cardiology)


Palliative care (from Latin palliare, to cloak) is any form of medical care or treatment that concentrates on reducing the severity of the symptoms slows its progress rather than providing a cure. However, it may occasionally in conjunction with curative therapy, providing that the curative therapy will cause additional morbidity. It aims at improving quality of life, by reducing eliminating pain and other physical symptoms, enabling the patient to ease or psychological and spiritual problems, and supporting the partner and carers.
According to W.H.O. statement
Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the problems associated with life threatening illness, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual.
Palliative care neither aims to hasten nor postpone dying. It is characterized concern for symptom relief and promotion of general well-being and spiritual, psychological and social comfort for the person with a life threatening or life illness. The need to maintain quality of life has become increasingly important, just in the dying stages, but also in the weeks, months and years before death. Worldwide increase in life expectancy has led to a corresponding increase in incidence of age-related chronic illnesses and palliative care increasingly cares patients with illnesses other than cancer such as end-stage heart, lung, kidney, disease, motor neuron disease, and dementia. The patient and family are both focus of palliative care, with emphasis placed upon the well-being of family caregivers as well as the patient. In addition, palliative care is no longer restricted to adults and many teams and hospices now exist for children of any age.
With the ageing population, the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS, the growth of non-communicable illnesses such as cancer and the prevalence of other chronic illnesses, it is vital to ensure that the needs of elder people affected by terminal illness both as patients and families and carers are being met.
Unfortunately, the reality is that at this stage this is simply not possible. Not even the most basic palliative care is being provided in India. Less than 1% of the population has access to palliative care. 40% of those seen by palliative care units are over 60.
Key issues are:
• An immediate need to reach out to where palliative care currently does not exist.
• The lack of manpower – a serious barrier to scale up of services.
• Palliative care is presently not recognized as a medical speciality and palliative care is not on the undergraduate medical syllabi.
• A need to develop state policy as well as developing and building a community voice in order to affect change.
• Strengthening of the key institutions who provide and co-ordinate palliative care
• Facilitating coordination



The solution for all these issues is to integrate palliative care with family medicine, because the illnesses which require palliative care are now more than ever illnesses typical of family medicine. They touch many systems and have profound psychosocial ramifications. Most of the care is provided in the community requires co-ordination of many specialities and resources, with the foundation being a strong doctor-patient relationship. Which is central to the role of family physician.
A ‘Family Physician’ is a multi-competent specialist who not only provides the point of first contact, but also provides the continuum of care. The principles of family medicine indicate that there is lot of scope in palliative care.
• Doctor-patient relationship is central to the role of family physician: The chronic nature of the illnesses requiring palliative care and their complex health and psychosocial issues are best addressed in the context of family medicine rather than in any other health care setting.
• The family physician is an expert clinician: In India Family medicine is a post graduate medical qualification which requires three years rigorous training and submission of thesis. Palliative care and elderly care are in family medicine syllabus. So family physician is an expert clinician. He can use his clinical skills and clinical acumen in dealing with presentations of rare diseases or common diseases with unusual presentations requiring palliative care. He can not only provide palliative care (pain and symptom control) but also provides other services like diagnosis and staging, monitoring for adverse drug effects, monitoring of improvements and deteriorations, diagnosis and treatment of intercurrent illnesses, recognition of emergencies, family support, spiritual and emotional support.
• Family physician is a resource to a defined practice population: this is true and he is better option for patient’s requiring palliative care. He is from their own community and near to patient’s house. With 4 or 5 cases of palliative care in his area, he can provide better quality care.
• Family medicine is a community based discipline: Knowledge about and advocacy for services and support for patients and carers are important constructs for the practice of family medicine and for caring of patients requiring palliative care.

BENEFITS:
1. No other specialists except family physician can achieve the palliative care goal, the best quality of life for patients and families by providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms, integrates the psychological and spiritual aspects of care and offers a support system to help family cope during the patient’s illness and in their own bereavement.
2. Home based palliative care can reduce the costs of treatment; it can reduce the frequency of futile hospital care and decrease the possibility of conflict and litigation between families and health care workers.
3. Effective communication skills are integral part of family medicine and they have very important role on providing of palliative care. There should be multiple counseling sessions of adequate duration in palliative care, only family physician (due to his proximity to patient’s house) can give the satisfaction to family and patient by spending adequate time and opportunity to ask questions and to express their views and emotions. It can resolve the feelings of guilt or remorse of family members and make them to feel that dying as a normal process.


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Jan12
PREVALENCE HIV INFECTION AMONG TUBERCULOSIS AND NON TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS - CASE CONTROL STUDY
PREVALENCE OF HIV INFECTION AND IT’S AMONG TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS AND NON-TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS – CASE CONTROL STUDY
DR.S.ABBAS ALI
MD, DFM, DNB, MNAMS
FCGP, MCCP (CARDIOLOGY)
PGDHSc (Ultrasonography)
PGDHSc (Echocardiogram)
M : 9412178773
Email: dr_s_abbas20@yahoo.co.in


Abstract
Objectives: To determine the prevalence of HIV infection and its clinical profile among tuberculosis patients (Cases) and Non-TB patients (Controls)
Methods: A case-control study study was conducted at District Hospital, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh during the period September 2009 to February 2011. 252 proven Tuberculosis patients as cases and 252 non-tuberculosis patients (having similar clinical features like TB) as controls selected stratified random sampling method
Results: Out of 252 tuberculosis patients 26 were HIV seropositive and none was positive in Non-TB patients. The percentage of prevalence in TB patients was 10.3%. The prevalence in males 13.2% (19/143) and in females, 6.4% (7/252), 12 (46.15%) were married and 14 (53.85%) were singles, 17 (65.38%) patients were Hindus and 9 (34.62%) were Muslims. 14 (53.85%) patients were from rural areas and 12 (46.15%) patients were from urban areas. 96.2% HIV –TB patients has income below 10000/Rs and all most all HIV – TB patients has heterosexual sexual behavior and not used protective measures during unprotected extramarital sex. The most peculiar clinical features of HIV seropositive TB patients of this study were chronic diarrhea (73%) aphthous ulceration (92.3%), pain in abdomen (38.4%) oral candidiasis (26%) lymphadenopathy (39.8%).
Conclusions: HIV seroprevalence was higher among TB patients and calls for routine HIV screening and counseling of TB suspects for holistic management.


INTRODUCTION
Tuberculosis is a major opportunistic infection of HIV patients’ world wide and despite the synergy between the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) epidemics; the public health responses have largely been separate. Detection of HIV among TB patients is crucial to the holistic management of HIV-TB co-infected patients. The joint statement by the American Thoracic Society, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends that all patients with tuberculosis (TB) undergo testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection after Counseling (Blumberg et al 2003).
As per NATIONAL AIDS CONTROL ORGANIZATION, HIV/AIDS epidemiological surveillance and estimation report for the year 2005. (Available from: http:// www.nacoonline.org/fnlapil06rprt.pdf [Last accessed on 2010 Sep 20]) an estimated 5% TB patients were HIV infected. Routine HIV testing in tubercular patients is NOT the national policy. Many patients were being treated for tuberculosis under programme conditions without knowledge of the presence or absence of concurrent HIV infection. Relapse rate is high in HIV-TB, which may be due to re-infections rather than true relapse of TB. This thesis finding stresses the importance of HIV screening of high risk TB patients such as drivers, labors, businessmen at least, to avoid confusion during management and treatment of Tuberculosis patients.
OBJECTIVES:
To determine the prevalence of HIV infection and its clinical profile among tuberculosis patients (Cases) and Non-TB patients (Controls). The parameters evolved were socio-demographic factors, habits, sexual behavior, clinical and radiological features.
Methods
Setting: DISTRICT HOSPITAL, MATHURA, UTTAR PRADESH
Duration: September 2009 to February 2011
Study design: Retrospective case control study
ESTIMATION OF SAMPLE SIZE: Sample size estimated on 50% power, 95% of confidence level 10% exposure in TB patients (Cases) and 5% exposure in non-ill group (controls) by statistician calculator (Epi Info version 6 November 1993). This had given a sample size of 252 patients for each group such as cases and controls. Services of Eminent Statistician utilized in estimation of sample size.
Method of sampling: Stratified systematic Random sampling system
Identification of cases and controls: From OPD register, 252 Tuberculosis patients (all three categories) were drawn. Stratified random sampling technique was used in the selection of cases. Only proven TB patients whose HIV status was not known at the time of TB diagnosis were included in the analysis to draw the true prevalence of HIV infection among TB patients. TB diagnosis was done on the basis of smear microscopy, chest radiography, and clinical signs/symptoms as per the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP).
The controls are free from disease under study but have similar symptomatology. From OPD register controls were drawn from diagnosed cases of acute bronchitis, allergic bronchitis, and acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and malignant pleural effusion. I selected one control for each case (252) from the eligible source population, matched on age, gender and calendar year. Stratified Random sampling technique was used in the selection of controls.
DATA COLLECTION:
The study was clinic based and data collected by me. The study protocol includes the information regarding life style and socio-demographic factors ( patient age, gender, religion, occupation, marital status, income, place of residence, education, habits), detailed history of the disease and physical examination of each patient (both cases and controls) included in the study was done and following information such as clinical features, radiological features, category TB, Sputum AFB status, type of TB, Risk factors responsible for the spread of HIV, HIV Virus subtype responsible for HIV infection and CD4 cell count of HIV patients were recorded. A chest X-ray was taken from all patients to study the radiological pattern. Information collected about them was treated as confidential and the study did not interfere with the normal management of the patients
Data were collected between September 2009 and February 2011, and a total of 504 (252 cases and 252 controls) participants were recruited as study subjects. Informed consent in their own language was obtained from the patients prior to enrolment. For those below 20 years, permission was sought from their parents/guardians.
HIV DETECTION:
During a regular follow-up visit and after pretest counseling, blood samples were collected for HIV antibodies screening and were tested initially by the three Rapid card tests as per the guidelines laid down by NACO (Testing strategy III) and positive test result was disclosed to the patients by post test. The results were again confirmed by ELISA test for HIV antibodies was done on all patients (cases and controls) included in the study. A patient was said to be positive for HIV when tested for positive by two different HIV test kits done on different occasions. Western Blot was not done due to lack of availability. All the ethical issues were observed during data collection. The HIV positive TB patients referred to nearest ART centre (convenient to patients) either Delhi or Agra and they are carefully and patiently followed and their CD4 cell count collected and studied during the follow up of ATT treatment at DOTS centre and the response with ART observed.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:
The data of cases and controls were analyzed using EPI info software version 6 (1993) and SPSS soft ware version 17. The socio-demographic variable differences in prevalence of HIV infection between cases and controls was statistically assessed using Chi-square test. Qualitative data was compared and analyzed in terms of percentages. Results of the two groups were compared using appropriate statistical technique. The statistical significance of the values was expressed through p – values, where ever the p – values are not significant, the odds ratio was expressed. A two-tailed p-value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant results.
Results:
252 confirmed and microbiologically proven TB patients (cases) and 252 non TB patients having similar clinical features like cases, aged between 18 – 57 years were screened for HIV-1/2 antibodies by ELISA method. Of these, 26 cases were found to be HIV-positive in TB patients and none was found in controls. Seroprevalence of HIV infection among TB patients was 10.3% (26/252). HIV seropositivity observed 10.9% (6) were in the age group of 18-27 ( 4 females and 2 males), 14.7% patients (11 males and 3 females) were in the 28-37 age group, 10% (6 males) were in the age group of 38 – 47 and none was found in the age group of 48 – 57. The mean age of prevalence of HIV infection was 34.5 years. Out of 252 controls no HIV seropositive were found in any age group.
The HIV infection was found to be more in males i.e. 13.2% (19/143) than in females, 6.4% (7/252), 12 (46.15%) were married and 14 (53.85%) were singles, 17 (65.38%) patients were Hindus and 9 (34.62%) were Muslims. 14 (53.85%) patients were from rural areas and 12 (46.15%) patients were from urban areas. 25 (96.2%) HIV-TB patients income was below Rs.10000/month and majority were transport drivers 8 (30.8%) labors 5 (19.3%), businessmen, farmers and house wives of these occupations and they have low literacy levels.
All the 26 (100%) HIV-TB patients had given heterosexual sexual behavior, and all are not using condoms and practicing unsafe sex. 77% (20) patients had given extra-marital unsafe sex with sex worker and multiple partners. None gave homosexual history, blood transfusion, and IV drug abuse or using unsterilized needles. 19.2 %( 5) patients had given history of migration. Six (23.9%) female patients had acquired the infection probably by heterosexual contact with infected spouse. past history of unprotected extra-marital sex was revealed in 77% (20) of HIV seropositive tuberculosis patients and it will be major risk factor for transmission of HIV infection and Alcoholism 73% (19/26), migration to cities or metros for work, low literacy, and poverty were the other factors fuelling the spread of HIV infection according to this study.
The most peculiar clinical features of HIV seropositive TB patients of this study were chronic diarrhea (73%) aphthous ulceration (92.3%), pain in abdomen (38.4%) oral candidiasis (26%) lymphadenopathy (39.8%). The fever, loss of weight, loss of appetite, cough were common to both TB and HIV-TB. The difference in signs and symptoms among the HIV positive and HIV negative TB patients was found to be statistically significant. 17 (65.4%) HIV seropositive TB patients had sputum AFB negative and 9 (34.6%) had sputum AFB positive.
. In this study extensive cavitatory lesions were common in Tuberculosis patients but in Co-infected (HIV-TB) patients’ ill-defined fibrotic lesions on upper lobe were more common and HIV-1 was the predominant viral subtype. Out of 26 HIV seropositive TB patients, 16 (61.5%) had Pulmonary tuberculosis patients, 6 (20.1%) had extra-pulmonary tuberculosis and 4 (15.4%) had combined variety. The main site of extra-pulmonary involvement was mesenteric lymphadenopathy and abdomen (8 patients) followed by pleural (1) and cervical lymphadenopathy (1) and brain (1). In this study we found 69.2% of cases (18 patients) were found in Category I, 27% of cases (7 patients) found in Category 2, and 3.8% of cases (1 patient) found in category 3. Maximum number of cases observed in category 1
In this study of CD4 cell count, 7 (26.9%) patients were found in the category range of 51 – 100 which includes 5 (21.3%) males and 2(28.6%) females. In this range we found 3 (18.8%) pulmonary, 2 (33.3%) extra pulmonary and 2(50%) combined tuberculosis patients. In the range 101 – 200, we found 12 (46.2%) (10 (52.6%) males and 2 (28.6%) females) cases, in which 9 (56.2%) were pulmonary, 2 (50%) combined and 1 (16.7%) extra-pulmonary. In the range 201 – 300 we found 7 (26.9%) (4 (21.1%) males and 3 (42.8%) females) cases, of which 4 pulmonary and 3 extra-pulmonary. The mean CD4 cell count was 182.
Discussion:
The present study demonstrated prevalence of HIV infection among tuberculosis patients was 10.3%. No HIV infection found in controls. Mohanty et al. (Ind.j.tub 1994) reported 5.89% of HIV infection in tuberculosis patients from Mumbai. Vasudevaiah et al. (Indian j.tub 1997) reported HIV seropositivity in tuberculosis patients attending the Govt.Hospital for chest diseases, Gorimedu, Pondicherry was 4% in 1994, 3.5% in 1995 and 4.9in 1996. The HIV/AIDS epidemiological and surveillance project 2005 conducted by National AIDS control organization, Ministry of health and family welfare, Govt. of India, estimated 9% of HIV infection among tuberculosis patients. The findings of above studies are very much agreement of this project and indicating that the risk of HIV infection among tuberculosis patients was increasing. The HIV seroprevalence of 10.3% among TB patients in our study is a cause for alarm, especially in view of the fact that HIV seroprevalence among TB patients is a good indicator of the spread of HIV infection in the general population.
The prevalence of HIV seropositivity in tuberculosis patients in the present study was 10.3%, which is higher than the HIV prevalence found in other studies in India. In the twin studies from Pondicherry, Siva Raman et al (1992) and Arora et al (1993) reported HIV seroprevalence of 2.7% and 3.4% respectively in tubercular patients. Mohanty et al (1994) reported a seroprevalence of 5.89% from Mumbai. The high prevalence of HIV infection in tubercular patients in these two places, Mumbai and Pondicherry is because of prevalence of HIV infection there. Mumbai is a metropolitan city and prostitution is rampant there. Immigrant populations who come here in search of work were easy target to the prostitutes, from whom they contact the HIV infection. Infact, the prostitutes in Mumbai have been reported to have a very high sero prevalence of HIV infection up to 51% (Lal et al 1994). Though, Mathura is less industrialized and the higher seropositivity (10.3%) in tuberculosis is causing concern. In this study, the most of the HIV-TB patients were drivers, labors, and cattle businessmen. These people do not have proper sex and health education, and most of the time they were away from their families and homes, befalls easy prey to the prostitution, which may be the cause of significantly higher HIV seropositivity. As compared to previous reports from Delhi of 4.4% in 1995-1999, 9.4% in 2000-2002, and 8.3% in 2003-2005. Ramachandran et al (Indian J Med Res 2003) have reported a seroprevalence of 4.7% in Tamil Nadu in 1997-1998. The trend observed over the years highlights the importance of continuous surveillance and in-time appropriate preventive measures.
In this study, 252 controls of unknown HIV status having similar symptomatology to cases had screened for HIV antibodies. No HIV infection was identified in controls. The percentage of diseases collected as controls were allergic bronchitis 22.3%, acute exerbations of chronic bronchitis 10.3%, COPD 26.2%, emphysema 12.6%, acute bronchitis 17.9%, malignant lung disease 5.5%, malignant pleural effusion 5.2% and bronchiectasis 4.8%. Few authors like J cadranel, D Garfield et al (2010) reported lung cancers were reported in higher frequency in HIV patients. These study findings were contrary to the findings of above author. It may be possible; we screened lung cancer patients of unknown HIV status and not in confirmed HIV patients.
SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS
AGE AND SEX
The study population comprised of 252 confirmed TB patients as cases, who were screened for presence of HIV antibodies. Of these, 143 (56.7%) were males and 109 (43.7%) were females. The HIV prevalence in relation to gender in TB patients was 13.2% (19) in males and 6.4% (7) in females. The overall male: female ratio was 2.7:1. The overall prevalence of HIV infection in TB patients was 10.3%. No HIV infection was found in controls. In control group the distribution of males 59.2% (149) and females 40.8% (103). The mean age of prevalence of HIV infection was 34.5 years and the main age group affected was 18 – 47 which is the sexually active age and is also the most productive in one's life. In Mumbai, Mohanty et al. (Ind.j.tub 1993) reported highest seroprevalence (71.7%) in the 21 – 40 year age group. Talib et al (Journal of infectious diseases, 1993) also reported maximum HIV cases in the age group of 20 – 39 years. So the findings of this project were very much agreement of the above studies. The HIV prevalence in relation to gender in TB patients was 13.2% (19) in males and 6.4% (7) in females. The overall male: female ratio was 2.7:1. NACO epidemiological report – 2005, reported 39% were females and 61% were males. The striking male predominance noted in the present study has also been reported by other authors. Such as Deivanayagam CN et al, (Ind.J.Tuberculosis:2001) Bhagyabati DS et al (Journal, Indian Academy of Clinical Medicine 2005), and Swaminathan S et al (2002). So the findings of this study were very much in agreement of the above studies.
MARITAL STATUS
Out of the 26 tubercular patients with HIV seropositive TB patients 14 (53.85%) were singles and 12 (46.15%) were married which includes unmarried singles and married singles due to divorce and separation. Prevalence was significantly high among singles. This finding is also consistent with previous reports, which found single, unmarried persons more vulnerable to HIV infection. Single unmarried persons are more likely to maintain multiple sex partners or be involved in high risk sexual behaviors (homosexuality, commercial sex work, alcohol use and intravenous drug abuse) that make them vulnerable to infection with HIV.
RELIGION
Out of 26 HIV seropositive tubercular patients, 17 (65.38%) patients were Hindus and 9 (34.62%) were Muslims. In 226 HIV seronegative tubercular patients 125 (55.31%) were Hindus, 76 (33.63%) were Muslims and 25 (11.06%) were others which includes Christians and Punjabis. No HIV seropositives were identified in controls. Dermal et al. (Indian J Community Med 2002) reported HIV positivity was seen equally among all religions and both sexes.
PLACE OF RESIDENCE
Out of 26 HIV seropositive tubercular patients, 14 (53.85%) patients were from rural areas and 12 (46.15%) patients were from urban areas. It signifies that prevalence was higher in rural areas. It may be due to change in life styles, behavior, migration and effective ways of communication like transport, travel including tourism. The epidemiological report of NACO – 2005, reported HIV infection in rural areas was 58.7% and in urban areas was 41.3%. These findings were very much in agreement with the findings of this study.
INCOME
Out of 26 HIV seropositive tubercular patients, 14 (53.85%) patients were found their income below 3000/-Rs and nil, 8 (30.76%) patients were found their income below 5000/-Rs/month, 3 (11.54%) were found their income below 10000Rs/month and 1 (3.85%) was identified income below Rs20000/month. The majority of HIV patients were found low income groups. Theur et al. (J.infectious diseases 1990) from California and Prasad et al (2003) from India reported HIV infection was more common in poor socio-economic status.
LITERACY
Out of 26 HIV seropositive TB patients 7 (26.92) were illiterates, 9 (34.62%) were studied up primary level, 5 (19.23%) were studied up to upper primary level, 4 (15.38%) were completed secondary education and 1 (3.85%) was found graduate. In this study we observed majority of HIV-TB patients were having low levels of literacy.
OCCUPATION
Out of 26 HIV seropositive TB patients 7.7% (2) were businessmen, farmers 7.7% (2) drivers were 30.8% (8), labors 19.3 (5) housewives 26.8% (7) professionals 7.7 (2). The occupational profile of our patients revealed that a majority of them were transport drivers, laborers, businessmen and house wives of these occupations. Mohanty et al. (Ind.j.tub 1993) reported 36.8% patients working as manual laborers while Rajsekaran et al. found majority (55.6) of patients working as farm labors. Jenkins et al. (Clin Infect Dis 2000) reported high prevalence of HIV infection in occupations involving mobility. Other authors have found seropositivity rate was highest among those who were unemployed (40%) followed by the business professionals (35%). The percentage of the professions is thus seen to vary in different studies, largely due to the differences in the occupational patterns and the source from where the patients were selected.
LIFE STYLES AND RISK FACTORS
HABITS
Out of 26 HIV-TB patients, 69.3% (18) of patients were alcoholics 73% (19) were smokers, 100% (26) patients had given history of tobacco chewing and substance abuse was not seen in seropostive TB patients. In comparison of cases and controls the percentage of prevalence of bad habits was more in HIV seropositives. In this study alcoholism was found to be contributing factor for visiting commercial sex workers and thus seems to the risk factor. Similar observations reported by Katarina et al. (Med J Armed Forces India 2000)
RISK FACTORS
Heterosexual route and extra-marital sex and unsafe sex with single/multiple partners and commercial sex workers were most important risk factors of this thesis study. Arora et al (Indian chest diseases, Allied science 1993) reported a history of heterosexual promiscuity in 75% of the HIV seropositive cases. Mohanty et al (Ind.j.tub 1993) reported 95%, and Talib et al (1999) reported 100% of heterosexual promiscuity. All these were in concordance with the findings of this project. The heterosexual transmission (100%) remains the commonest mode of transmission in this study since other sexual practices being very uncommon in my area. Six females seemed to have acquired infection from their infected husbands. More than 77% had extra-marital relations. There was however no case of transmission that could be attributed to blood transfusion or IV drug abuse, contrary to several studies reported from other parts of India and abroad.
CLINICAL FEATURES
In this study, General weakness or asthenia was common in both TB and HIV-TB patients (100%) but General weakness is observed in higher degree in HIV-TB patients. Asthenia observed 41.7% in controls. Fever was observed (100%) both in TB and HIV-TB patients but in controls it was observed in 11.9%. Cough, dyspnoea and chest pain observed in more or less same proportion in controls, TB and HIV-TB patients. Haemoptysis was present in 34% of TB patients which was massive in some patients, 19.2% in HIV-TB patients and 8% in controls. Loss of appetite was observed in equal proportions (100%) both in TB and HIV-TB patients but it was observed in 49% of controls. Loss of weight more than 10% was observed in equal proportions (100%) in TB and HIV-TB patients. Ascitis and herpes zoster was observed in equal proportions in TB and HIV-TB patients. The most peculiar clinical features of HIV-TB in this study were recurrent fever (100%), chronic diarrhea (73%) aphthous ulceration (92.3%), pain in abdomen (38.4%) oral candidiasis (26%) lymphadenopathy (39.8%). The fever, loss of weight, loss of appetite, cough were common to both TB and HIV-TB. The mean duration of the most common presenting symptom (cough) was 12 weeks while fever and weight loss had mean duration of about 14 and 12 weeks, respectively, at the time of presentation. Mean duration of anorexia was 15 weeks and for dyspnoea it was about 8 weeks. The average (mean) duration of symptoms at the time of presentation was 12.2 weeks, which is in overall suggestive of late presentation and contributing to the delay in the diagnosis of TB. The duration of illness in the present study ranged from 2 weeks to 2 years. In controls the mean duration of cough and dyspnoea ranged from 2 weeks to 5 years. General weakness or asthenia was more intense in HIV seropositive TB patients in comparison of Controls and cases. Kenya medical research institute, cohort study in 1990, reported cough, fever, dyspnoea, loose motions, loss of weight, loss of appetite, candidiasis, and itchy rash were common symptoms in HIV-TB patients. Saumya Swaminathan et al in their study reported haemoptysis 18%, oral candidiasis 38% of HIV-TB patients. Bissue F et al (J.Inter.med.1994) in their study quoted fever in91%, cough 84%, and weight loss > 10kg in 70% in HIV-TB patients. Similar observations were reported by K.C.Mohanty. (Ind.j.tub 1993)These findings were very much in agreement with the results of this study. The average duration of symptoms was 12.2 weeks, indicating that there was a delay in diagnosing tuberculosis and starting treatment. Whether the delay was at the patient or provider level needs further investigation. The duration of illness in our patients ranged from 2 weeks to 2 years. Swaminathan et al. found that the duration of illness in their cases before seeking treatment was 12 weeks. Fever, weight loss, cough, and lymphadenopathy which were consistent with studies by Kumar et al (2002) and by Putong et al.(2002) But Dey et al (2003) found rapid weight loss was most common presentation in seropositive patients, and cough was the most common symptom of TB in immunocompetent subjects. In the series reported by Mohanty et al. fever was the most common complaint, while Deivanayagam et al. (Ind.J.Tuberculosis:2001) reported cough with expectoration in majority of their patients.
TYPE OF HIV VIRUS
In this study all the 26 HIV-TB patients were found HIV-1 infection (100%). Migliori et al. (1992) found 59 (18.3%) out of 323 tuberculosis patients seropositive for HIV-1 antibody. Similar reports observed by Bonney EY et al (2008). The screening of 200 blood samples at National Institute of Virology, Pune by Indian council of medical research in 1992, identified HIV-1 infection was more frequent as compared to HIV-2 infection was very much similar to the findings of this project.
SPUTUM AFB
Out of 26 HIV seropositive tubercular patients, 17 (65.4%) patients had sputum AFB negative and 9 (34.6%) had sputum AFB positive. Beauliev et al (1993) reported sputum smear positivity in 22.8% of HIV-TB patients and in 56.2% of patients sputum AFB negative. Elliot et al (1993) similarly reported 76% sputum negative in comparison with 24% of sputum positive. Similar observations made by Kiel et al, (Chest:1989:95) Col. A K Praharaj et al (MJAFI 2004) and Levy R et al (Am.J.of Public health 1991) in their study. These studies findings were very much in agreement of findings of this project. The reason could be attributed to predominance of non-cavitatory lesions and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis in HIV patients
RADIOLOGICAL FEATURES
In this study, out of 26 seropositive TB patients 6 (23.1%) patients had normal x-ray, 12 (46.2%) patients had unilateral lesions on upper lobe, and 8 (30.7%) patients had bilateral lesions on upper lobe. 4 (15.3%) patients had cavitatory, 13(50%) patients had ill defined fibrotic lesion, 1(3.8%) patient had mililary and 2 (7.6%) patients had pleural thickening. In seronegative TB patients 29 (12.8%) had normal x-ray, 86 (38.1%) patients had unilateral lesions on upper lobe, and 111 (49.1%) patients had bilateral lesions on upper lobe. 149 (65.9%) patients had cavitatory, 35 (19.02%) patients had ill defined fibrotic lesion, 11(4.7%) patient had mililary and 16 (7.9%) patients had pleural thickening and 22 (8.7%) had hydropneumothorax. In this study we observed extensive cavitatory lesions were common in Tuberculosis patients but in Co-infected (HIV-TB) patients’ ill-defined fibrotic lesion on upper lobe were more common. The results were similar to the study published by K C Mohanty et al. (Ind.j.tub 1993). Many other studies have also reported a lower prevalence of radiological presentations in HIV-TB patients. According to Park text book of S.P.M. 16th edition, chest radiography may be less useful in people with HIV because they have less cavitations. Cavities usually develop because the immune response to tubercular bacilli leads to some destruction of lung tissue. In people with HIV, who do not have a fully functioning immune system, there is less tissue destruction and hence less cavitations was very much agreement of findings this study. The pattern of pulmonary involvement and the frequency of extra pulmonary involvement in this study were not different from other Indian reports.
DISEASES CLASSIFICATION
Out of 26 HIV seropositive TB patients, 16 (61.5%) had Pulmonary tuberculosis patients, 6 (20.1%) had extra-pulmonary tuberculosis and 4 (15.4%) had combined variety. The main site of extra-pulmonary involvement was mesenteric lymphadenopathy and abdomen (8 patients) followed by pleural (1) and cervical lymphadenopathy (1) and brain (1). ). Anuradha et al (1993) reported pleuro-pulmonary tuberculosis is more common. Houston et al (1994) reported extra-pulmonary tuberculosis more common than pulmonary tuberculosis. NACO, Govt. of India has reported in 200, TB as the commonest opportunistic infection (62.3%) in the HIV infected persons. The incidence of combined pulmonary and extra pulmonary TB infection was significantly higher in the seropositive patients, a finding that is consistent with a study by Jones et al. (Am Rev Respir Dis 1993) The findings of this thesis were very much agreement of the above studies.
CATEGORY OF TB
In this study we found 69.2% of cases (18 patients) were found in Category I, 27% of cases (7 patients) found in Category 2, and 3.8% of cases (1 patient) found in category 3. Maximum number of cases found in category I. Range et al (1996) reported an increase of HIV reactivity in newly registered tuberculosis patients 33% to 46%. Mohanty et al. (Ind.j.tub 1993) reported 5.89% of new cases of pulmonary tuberculosis HIV infection. Anastasias et al (International journal of tuberculosis and lung diseases 1997) made a retrospective study of 295 patients from 1991 to 1994 in Durban among the group of highest risk for HIV infection and reported the prevalence of HIV infection was 13.1% in patients with drug resistant tuberculosis and 14.9% in patients with drug sensitive tuberculosis. The above finding were very much agreement of findings of dissertation.
CD4 CELL COUNT
In this study of CD4 cell count, 7 (26.9%) patients were found in the category range of 51 – 100 which includes 5 (21.3%) males and 2(28.6%) females. In this range we found 3 (18.8%) pulmonary, 2 (33.3%) extra pulmonary and 2(50%) combined tuberculosis patients. In the range 101 – 200, we found 12 (46.2%) (10 (52.6%) males and 2 (28.6%) females) cases, in which 9 (56.2%) were pulmonary, 2 (50%) combined and 1 (16.7%) extra-pulmonary. In the range 201 – 300 we found 7 (26.9%) (4 (21.1%) males and 3 (42.8%) females) cases, of which 4 pulmonary and 3 extra-pulmonary. The mean CD4 cell count was 182. In this study we observed, CD4 Cell count was lowest less than 100/cmm in those patients with combined (pulmonary and extra pulmonary) lesions and all 26 our patients presented with an initial CD4 count of less than 300/µl consistent with many studies such as Sharma sk et al ((2004). Badri et al from South Africa reported most of the TB affected patients (67%) had CD4 level of more than 200/cmm. This could be attributed to late presentation primarily due to patient ignorance and lack of suspicion at primary health care level.
CONCLUSIONS
The present study has shown that the prevalence of HIV infection among tuberculosis patients was very high in compare of non-tuberculosis patients having similar clinical features. The extent of prevalence was 10.3% in tuberculosis patients. This is of great concern especially as it might affect both patient management and public health prospective.
Despite the synergy between the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) epidemics, the public health responses have largely been separate. Intensive efforts and early diagnosis of HIV infection among tuberculosis patients was crucial for holistic management of HIV-TB patients. With this study screening of HIV antibodies in TB patients adds one more classification, which will be more helpful in predicting prognosis of disease.
Classification
TB: it is assumed all TB cases (pulmonary and extra-pulmonary) were curable. It can be easily diagnosed by AFB sputum and x-ray chest PA View
Resistant TB: it includes MDR-TB and XDR-TB, which can be easily predicted with the help of previous prescriptions. Management of Resistant TB was beyond the reach of family physician and can be referred higher centre.
HIV-TB: Can be easily diagnosed in TB patients by rapid card tests. Beside ATT it requires services of nearest ART centre.
Knowledge of HIV status in a TB patient is critical from both patient and public health perspectives. In those patients who test seropositive for HIV, better care can be provided in the form of effective combined antitubercular (ATT) therapy and antiretroviral treatment. ATT was alone insufficient for the treatment of HIV seropositive TB and it was observed during this study that curative outcome was more with addition of antiretroviral therapy. If a HIV-positive TB patient on ATT worsens or fails to improve with therapy, the possibility of other co-existing opportunistic infections or immune reconstitution syndrome should be considered. Knowledge of a person's HIV serostatus also provides the opportunity to administer prophylaxis for opportunistic infections and thereby reduces morbidity and mortality. The spouse and relatives of HIV-seropositve patients may also be counseled on HIV infection and its modes of transmission and prognosis, preventing the spread of infection. Spouses may be educated on safe sex practices and may be offered testing themselves.




What is already known on the topic?
Tuberculosis is the commonest opportunistic infection of HIV infection or AIDS
What this study adds
HIV – TB was on the rise. So routine screening of TB suspects were necessary for Holistic management of TB and HIV-TB patients.

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Jan12
MANAGEMENT OF LATENT TUBERCULOSIS
MANAGEMENT OF LATENT TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION
DR.S.ABBAS ALI
MD, DFM DNB MNAMS (FAM.MED)
PGDHSc (ECHOCARDIOGRAM)
PGDHSc (ULTRASONOGRAPHY)
FCGP MCCP (CARDIOLOGY)

In general practice it is routine to see a number of latent Tuberculosis patients having symptoms like general weakness, diminished appetite, low body weight, mild fever, cough, fibrotic lesions in x-ray chest and investigations were normal except positive PPD.
Although the therapy of active pulmonary tuberculosis has improved considerably with highly effective short-course regimens, little progress has been made in the treatment of latent tuberculosis. Daily therapy with INH for 12 months has been the standard regimen for several decades. Currently, using INH daily for a 9-month course of therapy is preferred . An acceptable alternative is to use isoniazid daily for 6 months or rifampin daily for 4 months but drug induced hepatitis is a major disadvantage with this combination. Our experience shows isoniazid and ethambutol combination for 6 months is very good alternative for the treatment of latent tuberculosis. Compliance is good and side effects were also less with this combination. Before starting therapy, it should be necessary to rule out active tuberculosis. Active tuberculosis need four drugs for treatment. The dosage of INH is 300mg/day for adult and 10mg/kg body weight for children and ethambutol 15 mg/ kg body weight for children and 800mg for adults.
INDICATIONS
PPD-positive with HIV infection
PPD-negative with HIV infection in high risk group (eg., drug users)
PPD positive household contacts
PPD negative household contacts especially children
PPD positive with parenchymal scarring revealed on Chest roentgenogram
PPD positive staff of facilities in which many people could be exposed.


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Nov01
evolution of family medicine
FAMILY MEDICINE
DR.S.ABBAS ALI
MBBS, DFM, MD, DNB, MNAMS
PGDHSc(Echocardiogram)
PGDHSc(ultrasonography)
FCGP, MCCP
If we look at the history of medicine during last 100 years, it has moved from organism to organ, from organ to cell and from cell to molecular properties. The vast increase of medical knowledge during the 20th century has contributed to increasing complexity of specialization with in the medical profession. There are at present 20 recognized specialties and many more subspecialties. Some specialties have emerged based on clearly defined skills such as surgery, radiology, and anesthesia, some based on parts of the body such as ENT ophthalmology, cardiology and gynecology and some based on particular age group such as pediatrics, geriatrics and obstetrics. Again in each speciality, there has been a growth of subspecialties as for example, neonatology, perinatology, pediatric cardiology, pediatric neurology, and pediatric surgery – all in pediatrics. A super specialist or sub specialist is one who learns more about less and less. He is concerned with particular organ or part of the body. The specialization and micro specialization contributed the mushrooming growth of large luxurious super speciality hospital. No doubt, specialization raised the standards of medical care but it favors high cost, low coverage, and elite oriented health services.
Despite spectacular advances in medical advances and massive expenditure, the death rates and life expectancy in the developed countries have remained unchanged. So the developed and developing countries needed a specialization which focuses on organism or specialization in general practice which give comprehensive and personalized health care. In 1966 two reports namely Mills commission report, Willard committee reporting United States made similar recommendations. In 1971 the American academy of general practice which began in 1947 changed its name to American academy of Family physicians. The emergence of new speciality family medicine has been hailed as a rediscovery of the human, social and cultural aspects of health and disease.
The American Academy of Family Practice (AAFP) defines family medicine as a “medical specialty which provides continuing, comprehensive health care for the individual and family. It is a specialty in breadth that integrates the biological, clinical and behavioral sciences. The scope of family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes, each organ system and every disease entity.” Family medicine aims to provide initial, continuing and comprehensive care, while centering this process on the patient-physician relationship in the context of the family. These physicians emphasize disease prevention and health promotion, and when referral is indicated, the physician remains the coordinator of patient care.
In Family medicine referral system is not just sending patients to super speciality hospital or sub specialists but they consider it as two way exchange of information by referring to particular sub specialist and follow-up care of those who referred in consultation with sub specialist. It will ensure continuity of care and inspire confidence of the patients. The family doctor serves as a patient advocate in dealings with sub-specialists, third-party payers, employers and others. Ideally, this leads to decreased disintegration of patient care in inpatient settings, higher patient satisfaction, and increased cost-effectiveness.
Family medicine is different from Community medicine. Community medicine specialists deals with populations and try to measure the needs of populations both sick and well and engaged in services to meet those needs. They do not provide comprehensive health services to individuals or Family. Family medicine is horizontal speciality like internal medicine and pediatrics, shares of large areas of content with other clinical disciplines. Family medicine is different from Internal medicine. The specialty of internal medicine is comprised of physicians trained in adult medicine who provide the majority of health care to adults in the hospital or clinic. The internist do not trained in maternity and child care and they do not treat children and neonates. The family medicine specialist trained in adult medicine, paediatrics and neonatology, obs&gyanaecology, surgery including minor orthopedics and community medicine. So A single post graduate in family medicine can meet the requirements of physician, surgeon, paediatrician, obstetrician and gynaecologist and community medicine specialist of PHCs, CHCs and district hospitals. No doubt we need specialists and subspecialists at the level of tertiary health care services but at the same same we need more and more Family Physicians at the level of primary and secondary health care services.


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Nov01
KNOW ABOUT NEW SPECIALIZATION FAMILY MEDICINE
FAMILY MEDICINE – NEW SPECIALIZATION – MOST NEED FOR DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

Dr.S.ABBAS ALI
MD, DFM, DNB(FAM.MED)
MNAMS (Family Medicine)
FCGP, MCCP (Cardiology)
PGDHSc(Ultrasonography)
PGDHSc(Echocardiogram

Family medicine is defined as a field of specialization which provide comprehensive and holistic health care services centered on the family as the unit – from first contact to the ongoing care of chronic problems including promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative health care services. Family medicine is different from Community medicine. Community medicine specialists deals with populations and try to measure the needs of populations both sick and well and engaged in services to meet those needs. They do not provide comprehensive health services to individuals or Family. Family medicine is horizontal speciality like internal medicine and pediatrics, shares of large areas of content with other clinical disciplines. Family medicine is different from Internal medicine. The specialty of internal medicine is comprised of physicians trained in adult medicine who provide the majority of health care to adults in the hospital or clinic. The internist do not trained in maternity and child care and they do not treat children and neonates. In short, Family medicine specilist is specialist in internal medicine, paediatrics, Obs&gynae, surgery and community medicine. single specialization for all the problems of family and needed for developing nations.
Medicine has moved from organism to organ, from organ to cell and from cell to molecular properties. The vast increase of medical knowledge during the 20th century has contributed to increasing complexity of specialization with in the medical profession. There are at present 20 recognized specialties and many more subspecialties. Some specialties have emerged based on clearly defined skills such as surgery, radiology, and anesthesia, some based on parts of the body such as ENT ophthalmology, cardiology and gynecology and some based on particular age group such as pediatrics, geriatrics and obstetrics. Again in each speciality, there has been a growth of subspecialties as for example, neonatology, perinatology, pediatric cardiology, pediatric neurology, and pediatric surgery – all in pediatrics. A super specialist or sub specialist is one who learns more about less and less. He is concerned with particular organ or part of the body. The specialization and micro specialization contributed the mushrooming growth of large luxurious super speciality hospital. No doubt, specialization raised the standards of medical care but it favors high cost, low coverage, and elite oriented health services.
Despite spectacular advances in medical advances and massive expenditure, the death rates and life expectancy in the developed countries have remained unchanged. So the developed and developing countries needed a specialization which focuses on organism or specialization in general practice which give comprehensive and personalized health care. In 1966 two reports namely Mills commission report, Willard committee reporting United States made similar recommendations. In 1971 the American academy of general practice which began in 1947 changed its name to American academy of Family physicians. The emergence of new speciality family medicine has been hailed as a rediscovery of the human, social and cultural aspects of health and disease.
The American Academy of Family Practice (AAFP) defines family medicine as a “medical specialty which provides continuing, comprehensive health care for the individual and family. It is a specialty in breadth that integrates the biological, clinical and behavioral sciences. The scope of family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes, each organ system and every disease entity.” Family medicine aims to provide initial, continuing and comprehensive care, while centering this process on the patient-physician relationship in the context of the family. These physicians emphasize disease prevention and health promotion, and when referral is indicated, the physician remains the coordinator of patient care.
In Family medicine referral system is not just sending patients to super speciality hospital or sub specialists but they consider it as two way exchange of information by referring to particular sub specialist and follow-up care of those who referred in consultation with sub specialist. It will ensure continuity of care and inspire confidence of the patients. The family doctor serves as a patient advocate in dealings with sub-specialists, third-party payers, employers and others. Ideally, this leads to decreased disintegration of patient care in inpatient settings, higher patient satisfaction, and increased cost-effectiveness.
National board of examinations, New Delhi requirements of family medicine specialization include after passing primary, 3 year mandatory training in the recognized centers of NBE, acceptance of thesis, pass in final examination. The training programmes address a large breadth of topics; general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, maternity care, gynecology, care of the surgical patient, musculoskeletal and sports medicine, emergency care, mental health, community medicine, skin, diagnostic imaging and nuclear medicine, and management of health systems


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