Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Urinary Mercury Level, Neurobehavioral Performance, and Some Biochemical Markers in Children with Amalgam Restorations
1
13
EN
Merfat
Oreby
Departments of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
Nahed
Abu Hamila
Department of Pedodontics, Faculty of dentistry, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
Tarek
Al-nimer
Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
Hanaa
Hibishy
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
Mohammed
Seleem
Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19415
At present, there is a lack of scientific evidence on toxicity from low-level mercury exposure in children. Despite the debate over the safety of dental amalgam fillings, amalgam is still widely used to restore posterior teeth in pediatric dentistry. Although, children could be at greater risk to harm from low-level exposure due to their developing nervous systems. Hence, this research was carried out to define some potential health effects from dental amalgam on children's health. Children were selected from those attending the Pedodontic clinic, Faculty of Dentistry, Tanta University. They were subjected to clinical examination, neurobehavioral and intelligence quotient (IQ) assessment, urinary mercury level, serum; malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), zinc (Zn), and gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) measurement. The present study revealed thatthe mean urinary mercury level was significantly higher in the amalgam group (8.15+0.99μg/L) than in the control group (3.53+0.94 μg/L). The urinary mercury level in children who had more than two amalgams or had duration 2 years or more was higher than children who had less than 2 amalgams or had duration less than 2 years. There was no difference in IQ between children with and without amalgam fillings. The children who had amalgam restoration were estimated to be more withdrawn, more anxious/depressed, and to have more social problems than the control group. Furthermore, greater attention problems and delinquent/rule-breaking problems were recorded in the children with amalgam filling than in the control children. Also there was significant increase of serum MDA level and significant decrease of serum levels of GSH, Zn, and GABA levels in amalgam group than the control. These changes were more evident in children who had more than 2 amalgams or had duration 2 years or more.
mercury,intelligence,Neurobehavioral Performance, Malondialdehyde,reduced glutathione,Zinc, Gamma amino butyric acid
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19415.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19415_59388d547b7c5125a667ddfdee3d600c.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
The Histological Changes and Caspase-3 Expression during Wound Healing in Contused Skeletal Muscle in Male Albino Rats
14
22
EN
Irene
Fawzy
Forensic Medicine & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt.
Morid
Hanna
Forensic Medicine & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
Nashwa
El-Tahawy
Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt.
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19475
Wound age estimation is one of the most critical issues for forensic pathologists. This study aimed to assess the time dependant histological changes versus the expression of Caspase 3 histochemically during contused skeletal muscle healing to discuss the practical suitability of the latter as a parameter for wound age determination in the living instead of histological change. Forty -six male albino rats were used in this study and divided into five groups, control group and four contused groups. At 12 hours, 3, 5 and 7 days after contusion, rats were killed and muscle samples were dissected from right hind limb of all rats. Histological examination was made and changes of Caspase-3 activity were assessed by imunohistochemistry, the results showed normal morphology of striated muscles and no Caspase-3 was detected in skeletal muscle in the control group. Light microscopic examination of contused groups revealed that polymorphonulcear cells (PMNs) were detected at 12 hours post contusion. Degenerated skeletal muscle fibers were phagocytosed gradually at 3 days, while most of degenerated fibers were phagocytosed and disappeared at 5 days post injury. From 3 days post-injury, fibroblast cells were present in the wound zones, and multinucleated myotubes augmented remarkably at 5–7 days. The expression level of Caspase-3 in the peripheral area of contused rat skeletal muscle increased gradually and maximized on the fifth day after injury, and then decreased gradually. Caspase-3 was also detected in the regenerated skeletal muscle within 7 days after injury. In conclusion, the expression of Capase-3 in the peripheral area of contused rat skeletal muscle indicated that it may play a pivotal role in apoptosis of the wounded skeletal muscle and may be used as a marker for wound age estimation in the living human being instead of histological changes
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19475.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19475_82436b82aed17633adeec29eb0beccdb.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Cytogenetic Evaluation of the Genotoxicity in Cultured Lymphocytes of Some Tramadol-Dependent Egyptians
23
36
EN
Enas
El-Maddah
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
Amany
Mousa
Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19478
Tramadol is a widely used, synthetic opioid analgesic for the prevention and treatment of moderate to severe pain in acute or chronic conditions. Several studies have been performed to evaluate its safety. Among the various possible toxic effects for this drug overdose is its potential genotoxicity. The purpose of the present study was to assess the possible genotoxic effects of tramadol dependence in humans using the chromosomal aberration (CA), sister chromatid exchange (SCE), and the micronucleus (MN) assays. This work was carried out on 30 adult male subjects ranged in age from 20 to 35 years; 10 of them were used as controls, 10 subjects had orally taken tramadol for 2-3 years, and another 10 subjects had orally taken tramadol for 4-5 years. Those poisoned subjects (No=20) were admitted to Tanta Poison Center in the period from June 2011 to January 2012 and were diagnosed as tramadol overdose on top of dependence. The results showed elevation in the frequencies of chromosomal aberrations, SCEs and micronuclei in cultured lymphocytes from tramadol-dependent patientswhich were related to the duration of drug intake.
tramadol,genotoxicity,chromosomal aberrations,sister chromatid exchange,micronucleus
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19478.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19478_0bad1a5acd29802b9ed77e797beec513.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Study of Electrocardiographic Changes Associated with Acute Poisoning in Tanta Poison Center
37
52
EN
Mona
Heshmat
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Aisha
Maklad
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Raghda
Elsheikh
Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Enas
Elmadah
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Amira
Wahdan
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19480
Poisoning or intoxication is the occurrence of harmful effects resulting from exposure to a foreign substance. According to the Center for Disease Control, approximately 1 million of the 110 million annual emergency department (ED) visits are related to poisoning and other toxic effects. Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a noninvasive, relatively inexpensive diagnostic test that provides important information regarding not only the heart, but also non-cardiac events impacting the cardiac system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the electrocardiographic changes conducted on 282 cases of acute poisoning admitted to Tanta Poison Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta Emergency University Hospital during the period from the start of July - 2009 to the end of June - 2010. In order to fulfill this aim, each patient was subjected to history taking, complete physical examination, laboratory investigations and ECG analysis. This study found that poisons associated with ECG changes account for 58.5 % of patients included in this study. Furthermore, 36.17% of patients are mainly in the middle age group between 20 and 30 years. Organophosphorus compounds (34.4%) were responsible for most cases of intoxication of ECG changes. Sinus tachycardia (73.94%) was the commonest ECG change among them. Followed by prolonged QT corrected for heart rate (QTc) interval (21.82 %) and sinus bradycardia (11.51 %).
Intoxication,poison center,ECG & sinus tachycardia
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19480.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19480_1e6bb48e93ffb2d6053a670c764ec407.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Poisoning Severity Score as a Predictor of Cardiotoxicity Induced by Anticholinesterase Pesticides, Digoxin and Beta Blockers
53
66
EN
Ayman
Zaaqoq
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Hany
Gamaluddin
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Enas
El-Taftazani
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Gamal
Al-Sayed
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Samar
Ahmed
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19482
Poisoning and fatalities by cardiotoxic agents represent a challenging health problem in Egypt. An important action to combat this problem is to predict or, at least, early diagnose cardiac involvement. To do so, the clinician needs both bedside skills and appropriately selected laboratory testing. The Poisoning Severity Score (PSS) has been evaluated in one study which found it to be useful in identifying serious and complicated cases of poisoning. The aim of this study was to investigate effectiveness of the PSS in predicting cardiotoxicity, as well as correlations of different demographic, exposure, clinical and laboratory findings to cardiotoxicity. <strong>Methodology</strong>: Over a period of 4 months, we investigated 59 patients with anticholinesterases (n=28), digoxin (n=17), and beta-blocker toxicities (n=14) admitted to Poison Control Center of Ain Shams University Hospitals (PCCA), Cairo, Egypt, in addition to 16 healthy controls. For each, age, sex, mode of exposure, compound involved, time elapsed between exposure and admission, length of hospital stay, clinical, laboratory, and electrocardiographic findings were recorded. Also, PSS was calculated. <strong>Results</strong>: Female gender, lag between exposure and admission, length of ICU stay, and total length of hospital stay were significantly correlated to the severity of cardiotoxicity. Vomiting, metabolic acidosis, respiratory alkalosis, and PSS were independent predictors of cardiotoxicity. A PSS of 2 had a sensitivity of 88% and a specificity of 64.7% in predicating cardiotoxicity. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: Implication of PSS in prediction and early diagnosis of cardiotoxicity is easy, available, cheap, and reliable, whatever the type of toxic exposure.
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19482.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19482_6552cd8868d51c5526ec70704641ef31.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
The Different Responses of Some Adult Albino Rats’ Body Organs to the Genotoxic Effect of Cadmium
67
74
EN
Zeinab
Abd Elhaleem
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Emad
Ahmed
Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19536
Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most toxic environmental pollutants affecting the DNA. Cadmium interferes with DNA repair process and induces oxidative stress leading to DNA damage. Since the most recent molecular cancer genetic and cytogenetic data have provided strong evidence that genetic damage can be the initial step of the malignant process, the early detection of DNA-damaging effect of Cd in different organs is very important to avoid its carcinogenic potential .Hence, this study was undertaken to determine the response of some different rat organs to the genotoxic effect of Cd. The study was conducted on 48 adult male albino rats divided into three main groups; group I (negative control group) consisted of 15 rats, group II (positive control group) consisted of 15 rats, received 1 ml distilled water daily by gavage and group III (cadmium group) consisted of 18 rats, received cadmium chloride in a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight daily by gavage. Each one of these three main groups was subdivided according to the experimental period into three equal subgroups; (a), (b), and (c). The experimental period was two weeks for subgroups Ia, IIa, and IIIa, four weeks for subgroups Ib, IIb, and IIIb and eight weeks for subgroups Ic, IIc, and IIIc. Determination of possible DNA damage using comet assay in lymphocytes, bone marrow (BM), lung, liver, and kidney along with malondialdehyde and Cd levels were carried out. The results of this study revealed a heterogeneous response of the studied organs to the genotoxic effect of Cd. Lymphocytes and BM were early affected while the liver showed the highest genetic damage with longer exposure period. These findings suggest that lymphocytes and BM are more sensitive to Cd genotoxicity than the lung, liver, and kidney. So lymphocytes and BM can be used as early determinants of Cd-induced genetic damage. Considering these issues, health educational programs should be implemented to highlight the dangerous impact of Cd on health. Moreover, persistence of this metal in the environment requires a long-term move towards minimizing human exposure through environmental management and preservation of lower Cd levels wherever possible. Also, further studies are needed to detect the genotoxicity of Cd in other organs.
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19536.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19536_c61b46b6f6580b14b50436bdf43fffc5.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Study of the Role of Antioxidant (Vitamin C) on Modulation Toxicity of Chronic Use of Monosodium Glutamate in Liver of Albino Rats
75
87
EN
Hosam Eldin
Osman
Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Taif University (KSA) and Al-Azhar University (Egypt)
Said
Elshama
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Taif University and Suez Canal University (Egypt)
Ayman
El-Kenawy
Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Taif University and Menoufiya University (Egypt)
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19538
<strong>Introduction: </strong>Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is now used in many foodstuffs as a food additive and flavour enhancer. Although it has classified as safe food ingredient, the use of MSG remains controversial. MSG is a slow excitotoxin food additive which can cause generation of numerous amounts of free radicals which affects many organs such as liver. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and inhibits chemical carcinogenesis by protecting the body against oxidative stress.<strong> Aim of the study: </strong>Study role of antioxidant (vitamin C) on modulation biochemical, histological, histochemical and ultrastructural changes of liver caused by chronic use of MSG.<strong> Materials and Methods</strong>: Sixty adult albino rats divided into equal three groups, first group (control) received 1ml of saline daily for three months, Second group received MSG 6mg/g/BW/day for three months, third group received MSG 6mg/g/BW/day and vitamin C 500 mg /kg /b.w /day, orally and for three months. Biochemical changes were investigated by the liver function tests. Assessment of histopathological changes of liver was done by using light microscope, transmission electron microscope, histochemical studies and immuohistochemical studies.<strong> Results:</strong> After chronic use of MSG, light microscope and transmission electron microscope examination revealed severe histopathological changes such as hepatic architecture destruction and dilatations of the central veins with statistical significant increase of liver enzymes. Histochemical studies revealed severe reduction of carbohydrates and proteins; pyknotic nucleus, vacuolated cytoplasm, swollen mitochondria and vesiculated rough endoplasmic reticulum with significant positive stained nuclei with ki-67 and p53. Administration of Vitamin C with MSG led to significant improvement of biochemical and pathological changes of liver. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> Chronic use of MSG caused hepatotoxicty of rats which is improved by administration of Vitamin C with it
Monosodium glutamate,vitamin c,Liver
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19538.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19538_fa4a746d4550eaeefbe5c805568d0e2e.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Assessment of Nephrotoxicity of Repeated Use of Monosodium Glutamate in Adult Albino Rats
88
96
EN
Hosam Eldin
Osman
Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Taif University (KSA) and Al-Azhar University (Egypt)
Said
Elshama
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Taif University and Suez Canal University (Egypt)
Ayman
El-Kenawy
Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Taif University and Menoufiya University (Egypt)
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19539
<strong>Introduction:</strong> Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is one of the most common food additives. It is not a nutrient, vitamin, or mineral and has not any health benefits. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicates that monosodium glutamate is a safe food additive, but some studies indicated that it has a toxic effect. So, its use remains controversial in spite of its increasing consumption in fast and canned foods. The kidney has a vital role for elimination of MSG because it performs the excretion of many toxic metabolic waste products. <strong>Aim of the study: </strong>Study of biochemical, histological, ultrastructural and histochemical changes of kidney caused by repeated intake of MSG.<strong> Materials and Methods</strong>: Sixty albino rats divided into three equal groups, first group (control) received 2ml of distilled water daily for 12 weeks, Second and third group received 7.5 and 15 mg/kg/day of MSG orally for 12 weeks respectively. Biochemical changes were investigated by the renal function tests. Assessment of histopathological changes of kidney was done by using light microscope, electron microscope, and histochemical studies.<strong> Results:</strong> After repeated use of MSG, light microscope and electron microscope examination revealed histopathological changes such as hypertrophy and degeneration of renal tubules epithelium, enlarged glomeruli with narrowing glomerular capsular space and flat epithelium of Bowman<sup>,</sup>s capsule, focal loss of the brush border of epithelial lining of proximal renal tubules, disturbance of the nuclear membrane, degenerated rough endoplasmic reticulum, increased number of lysosomes and cell death. Histochemical studies showed degenerative and necrotic areas of renal tissues especially renal tubules and glomeruli. These changes induced statistical significant increase of serum urea and creatinine<strong>. Conclusions:</strong> repeated use of MSG caused nephrotoxicity of rats manifested as renal histopathological, ultrastructural, histochemical, and biochemical changes in a dose-dependent manner.
Monosodium glutamate,histopathology,biomarkers,kidney
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19539.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19539_ef5d1a44e08f48869e71a3c316692111.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
A Clinical Study of Acute Hydrogen Cyanamide Toxicity in the Period between 2006-2009 in the Poison Control Center, Ain Shams University
97
103
EN
Hany
Gamaluddin
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. Cairo, Egypt
Suzan
Mahmmoud
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. Cairo, Egypt
Mona
Mosa
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. Cairo, Egypt
Heba
Halawa
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. Cairo, Egypt
Eman
Khalifa
0000-0001-7626-1619
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. Cairo, Egypt
dr.emankhalifa10@yahoo.com
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19540
Hydrogen cyanamide is an active ingredient of Dormex® used as a plant growth regulator. Reports of the acute toxic effects of hydrogen cyanamide are limited. The emerging problem of Dormex toxicity approximately started in Egypt since 1997 and led to many deaths. Therefore, the <strong>aim of this study</strong> was to illustrate acute toxic effects of hydrogen cyanamide. <strong>Subjects and Method</strong>: The study was carried out on hydrogen cyanamide intoxicated cases presented to the poison control center (PCC), Ain Shams University Hospitals in the period between January 2006 and December 2009. Symptoms, signs, laboratory investigations, and complications were recorded at the time of presentation. The study was conducted on 12 patients with acute Dormex toxicity in addition to 10 healthy individuals serving as control. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: Dormex is highly toxic and may cause serious poisoning with acute toxic effects on central nervous system, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, liver, kidney, and hematological system. So awareness of this complications and early aggressive treatment are recommended to reduce mortality.
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19540.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19540_7c14d4250582492cf4f650fae47950c7.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
DNA Fragmentation in Spermatozoa due to Cadmium and Lead Intoxication among Some Egyptian Population
104
112
EN
Afaf
Attia
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Adel
Zalata
Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19542
The present study aimed to throw the light on cadmium and lead concentrations in seminal plasma among some Egyptian men with infertility history that are likely to be representative of those toxins among the Egyptian general population and to predict the most affected semen parameters by the above metals. In addition, the current study aims to explore the possible correlation of spermatozoa DNA damage with the cadmium and lead metals concentration. Ninety semen samples obtained from patients attending the andrology out-patient's clinic, Mansoura University Hospital. Studied groups include group of idiopathic infertile men (n=46) and group of fertile healthy men (n=44) who matched according to age and residence. Semen analysis results revealed highly statistical significant differences on comparing infertile to fertile groups. There was highly statistical significant increase in cadmium and lead seminal plasma levels on comparing infertile to fertile groups. DNA laddering test revealed 82.6% DNA damage in infertile group comparing to 11.4% in fertile group. The results revealed a positive correlation between both metals level and spermatozoa DNA damage percentage in infertile group. Linear regression analysis revealed that exposure to cadmium affected sperm motility then sperm function while, exposure to lead affected sperm motility then morphology. In conclusion, chronic low-level exposure to environmental toxicants such as cadmium and lead impair male reproductive ability.
Male infertility,cadmium,Lead,Semen Analysis,DNA Laddering
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19542.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19542_84bda0f5c51aedf0ebcc92836338ab30.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Impact of Some Toxic Factors Influencing Autism: A Case Control Study among Some Egyptian Children
113
118
EN
Sohayla
Attalla
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Afaf
Attia
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Salwa
Tobar
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Eman
El-Sheshtawy
Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19544
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed clinically on the basis of deficits in social interaction, communication, and range of interests and activities. While, the neurobiologic basis for autism is now established, the specific etiology is unknown. The study tried to put hand on the most offending toxic risk factors for autism through detecting the levels of mercury and lead in the hair of autistic children and whether their levels are correlated with the changes in hair copper and zinc levels. Results showed the lead and mercury were detected in the hair samples of autistic children. The lead levels were significantly increased while mercury levels were significantly decreased in comparison to control group. There were changes in both copper and zinc levels in the hair samples of autistic children as copper levels were significantly higher in autistic cases than in control while, zinc levels were significantly lower in autistic cases than in control. There was positive correlation of Child Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and mercury levels while; Intelligence Quotient (IQ) has significant negative correlation with hair lead levels. By using logistic regression model in the current study, it is found that levels of hair mercury followed by copper then lead were associated with statistically significant increased risk of autism. In conclusion, infantile zinc deficiency and toxic metal accumulation may play principal roles in the pathogenesis of autism.
Toxic Autism, Heavy Metals, Mercury,Lead,zinc,copper
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19544.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19544_51e74542965c54c6b1fe2863882df3b9.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Pholcodine Containing Cough Medications as a Defense in the Court
119
127
EN
Abdel Aziz
Ghanem
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Sahar
El-Dakroory
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Rania
Abdel Rahman
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Osama
Shabka
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19545
Urine drug screens (UDSs) beyond the health care and criminal justice systems have increased throughout the past decade. A proper knowledge of medications that cross-react with UDSs are essential for accurate interpretation of the results. This study aims to evaluate one of the cough medications which may interfere with drug abuse testing and to highlight its plausibility as a defense in the court against dependence. Urine samples were collected from 30 patients presented to Mansoura Toxicology Unit with disturbed conscious level. Thorough history taking, routine laboratory investigations and toxicological analysis of urine for drugs of abuse by enzyme multiplied immunoassay (EMIT) and thin layer chromatography (TLC) were done. EMIT assay revealed that opiates, cannabinoids, benzodiazepines and barbiturates were positive in 100%, 76.7%, 36.6% and 20% of samples respectively. Confirmatory analysis demonstrated positive TLC of morphine in 96.7%, codeine in 43.3%, pholcodine and ephedrine in 53.3% of samples. The opiate positive results in persons taking pholcodine cough syrup proved the plausibility of this drug as a defense in the court in cases with legal and clinical forensic issues. However, each case must be considered on its own merits bearing in mind the need for caution when interpreting the analytical data especially when suspecting the use of pholcodine containing cough mixtures. It is advisable to search for pholcodine and ephedrine to exclude the possibility of taking antitussives containing these compounds. Further studies should be performed to assess the urgent need to schedule these medications. Meanwhile, these drugs should not be sold without a prescription and a warning against positive opiate assay must be written in their pamphlet.
Pholcodine,forensic drug testing,false positive opiate
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19545.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19545_6021d8d7cbaa9f4186e160f47a61032a.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Plasma Lactate as a Prognostic Biomarker in Acute Carbon Monoxide Toxicity
128
134
EN
Hany
Abd El Razik
Fellow of Clinical Toxicology, Poison Control Center of Ain Shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt.
Mahmoud
Abd El Wahab
Fellow of Biochemistry, Poison Control Center of Ain Shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt.
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19546
Patients with acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning have been found to have a correlation between initial clinical severity on admission and blood lactate levels. Recently, it is suggested that the lactate level may be a useful prognostic factor in cases study. The purpose of this study was to assess whether plasma lactate levels can be used as a biomarker for the assessment of severity and outcome of acute carbon monoxide poisoning. Selected Forty patientswhom presented to the Poison Control Centre (PCCA) of Ain Shams University Hospitals after acute CO poisoning, over 1 year, were included in this study. Based on clinical criteria, patients were classified into 3 groups (mild, moderate and severe). Blood pH, Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), blood sugar (B.S), and lactate level were estimated in the blood of all patients. Our results revealed thatthe blood lactate level was significantly increased in all poisoned patients and the dead patients showed significant increase of blood lactate at time of admission when compared with the survived patients. The correlation study revealed positive correlation between plasma lactate level with B.S levels, COHb levels and the delay time and negative correlation with blood pH. It is concluded that the initial blood lactate may correlate with the patient outcomes and prove to be a useful prognostic factor in acute CO poisoning. Thus lactate level is recommended to be considered in cases of acute CO poisoning.
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19546.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19546_26c04b65dd795708c68102abcd963b9f.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Role of Apoptosis in Dermatotoxic and Carcinogenic Effects in Some Asphalt Road Paving Egyptian Workers
135
144
EN
Ghada
Eshak
Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
Morid
Hanna
Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
Manal
Ahmed
Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
Ghada
Nassef
Dermatology, STDs, and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19547
This study aimed firstly to assess the dermatotoxic and carcinogenic risk associated with chronic asphalt fumes exposure, and secondly to investigate the cancer causal relationship by examining the expression pattern of P53, Bax and Bcl-2 apoptotic proteins in skin specimens from road paving workers. The study was conducted on one hundred and fifty two male subjects classified into 122 asphalt fumes exposed workers and 30 non exposed workers; skin examination and skin biopsies were obtained from all participants after written consent. Biopsies were examined histopathologically and immunohistochemically. Results showed that 58.19 % of exposed workers had erythema, itching, excoriations, chronic dermatitis, chemical keratosis, keratoacanthoma (K.A) and 7.38% of exposed workers had squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Imunohistochemically, wild type P53 was significantly higher in all asphalt exposed workers and mutant type P53 was significantly higher in SCC lesions when compared with control. A significant increase in Bax expression was observed in all exposed workers.A significant decrease in Bcl-2 expression was noted in all workers while none of SCC cases were positive for Bcl-2. It could be concluded that chronic exposure to asphalt fumes may increase the risk for developing dermatotoxic and/or cancer through disturbing P53, Bax and Bcl-2 apoptotic proteins
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),dermatotoxicity,apoptosis,skin cancer,asphalt workers
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19547.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19547_00628ca67a57a76bdb7a19c398fd3309.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Pattern of Poisoning In Upper Egypt (Ministry of Justice): Retrospective, Epidemiological Study from 2005 to 2010
145
153
EN
Heba
Yassa
Forensic and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
Safaa
George
Forensic and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
Nady
Abd Eldaim
Assiut Forensic Medicine Institute, Assiut, Egypt
Fahd
Mohammed
Assiut Forensic Medicine Institute, Assiut, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19548
Poisoning is a great problem affecting people in the all age stages and may lead to death, disease or disability, which may continue throughout the life. <strong>Methods:</strong> Retrospective study in the Forensic Medicine Laboratory Institute in Upper Egypt from 2005 to 2010. Age, sex, residence and type of poisons were analyzed to determine the toxicity pattern in this area. <strong>Results:</strong> the study revealed that the toxicity is more common in males than females (62.5% and 37.5% respectively). Age distribution of toxicity is (30 - Conclusion: Pesticides exposure and drug abuse are two big problems in our community. Drug abuse is a growing problem should be dealt with quickly because it affects the youth group.
Poisoning,Drug abuse,Pesticides
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19548.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19548_6430fad7287f8971f9aaf16c37c14e5e.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Medicolegal Aspects of Mental Disorders: A Retrospective Study during the Period 2005-2010
154
163
EN
Wafaa
Abdel Moneim
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
Zaghloul
Mohammed
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
Safaa
George
Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
Fahd
Mohamed
Ministry of Justice, Assiut, Egypt
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19549
The World is suffering from an increasing burden of mental disorders and a widening treatment gap; about 450 million people worldwide suffer from a mental disorder or behavioral disorders.<br /> This study evaluate the size of the mental disorder problem in Assuit Governorate during the period from 2005 to 2010 through collection of cases of mental disorders files from archive of Assuit Medico-Legal Department of Ministry of Justice during the period from 2005 to 2010.<strong> Methods: </strong>Data of cases suffering from mental disorders was collected from the archive of Assiut Medico-Legal Department of Ministry of Justice during the period from 2005 – 2010. The collected data included number of mental disorders cases, age, sex, and residence, sociodemographic factors, type of complaint of the plaintiff, the common types of mental disorders, and types of the problems with mental disorders civil or criminal.<strong> Results:</strong> The total number of the cases with mental disorders in the period from 2005 to 2010 was 163 cases, the highest percent of mental disorders cases occurred in the year 2008 with a percent of 19, 64 % from all mental disorders cases during the period from 2005 to 2010 followed by the year 2009 with a percent of 19% while the lowest number of cases was in 2006 with a percent of 11.66 %. The highest frequency of mental disorders occurred in the middle age group from 20- < 30 years, with male predominance. Males represent about triple the number of females. The frequency of mental disorders was the highest in Assiut City (65) cases (39.88 %) while the least percentage was 2 cases (1.23 %) in El Ghanaime. Most of the cases (61.59 %) had with primary mental disorders while only (37.43 %) had secondary mental disorders and both of them were more common in males. The Classification according to psychiatric consultants who contracting with the Assuit Medico-Legal Department of Ministry of Justice. The majority of cases (159 cases) in this study were presented with civil problems and only 4 cases were presented with criminal problems.<strong> Conclusion:</strong> the problem of mental disorder is considered one of the challenges that face the Egyptian community so all efforts must cooperate to eliminate and treat all the problems associated with it.
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19549.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19549_0a35056e28d72eaf5e2fe3b947ec6182.pdf
Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology Department
Ain Shams Journal of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology
1687-1030
2636-3356
19
2
2012
06
01
Work-related Disability among Egyptian Workers
164
175
EN
Hoda
El-Ghamry
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
Amany
Mohammad
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
Dina
Badran
Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
Mohammad
Nouri
Sudanese Federal Ministry of Health, Sudan.
10.21608/ajfm.2012.19550
Thorough knowledge of the trends of workplace disabilities is essential for the development of strategies for better assessment and fair judgment. The aim of this study was to focus on cases of disability in workplaces presented to the forensic medicine authority in Cairo, Ministry of Justice during 2008 and 2009. The information used was obtained from reports written by Medico Legal Experts (MLE), and then submitted to statistical analysis. There were a total of 142 cases of workplace disabilities in different establishments. Most cases lie between 18 and 34 years of age.Limitation of joint movements was the most frequent type of injury (49.3%), followed by fractures and nerve, tendon or muscle injuries (26.8%) each. Caught by machine was the most frequent event (40%), followed by falls/slips (20%). Hands were the most affected part of the body (28.2%). After assessment by MLE, the highest number of workplace disabilities fell in the 0 to 20% range, and presented in 86 victims (60.6%). Disabilities due to falls/slips and being hit by object scored the highest rating percentages. Of all current study cases, general establishments recorded 89.2 % where private ones were only 10.8 %. This study recommended to revising Egyptian laws regularly, concerning the work accident notification form, for better accident analysis and employees protection and to get suitable compensation in cases of work-related disability.
Workplace,Disability,Egyptian,Medico-legal Expert (MLE)
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19550.html
https://ajfm.journals.ekb.eg/article_19550_19fd0dffb7647c4f072b430f5c00320c.pdf