Khalij-Libya Journal of Dental and Medical Research

Normative Values of Intraocular Pressure and Optic Disc Cup-to-Disc Ratio in Adults in Benghazi, Libya

2025-12-22T19:43:59+02:00

Intraocular pressure and the optic disc cup-to-disc (C/D) ratio are essential clinical parameters in the early detection of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Variations in these measurements may occur due to age, gender, and individual anatomical differences, making population-based data important for clinical interpretation. This study aimed to evaluate intraocular pressure and optic disc cup-to-disc ratio among adult patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Ophthalmology Outpatient Department of Benghazi Eye and Ophthalmic Surgery Teaching Hospital between January and March 2025. Adults aged 18 years and older attending for routine eye examinations or minor non-glaucomatous complaints were recruited. Intraocular pressure was measured in both eyes using Goldmann applanation tonometry between 9:00 and 11:00 AM. Optic disc C/D ratio was assessed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy with a fundus lens. A total of 139 participants were analyzed (mean age: 60.28 ± 9.08 years; 59.4% females). The mean IOP was 13.36 ± 2.80 mmHg in the right eye and 12.79 ± 2.62 mmHg in the left eye. The mean C/D ratio was 0.36 ± 0.19 in the right eye and 0.37 ± 0.19 in the left eye. IOP showed no statistically significant association with age or gender. However, males had significantly higher C/D ratios in both eyes compared to females (p < 0.05). Intraocular pressure values were within normal limits and were not significantly influenced by age or gender. Optic disc C/D ratios demonstrated significant gender-related differences, with higher values observed in males. Routine assessment of optic disc morphology is recommended, with consideration of gender-related differences.

Incontinentia Pigmenti (IP) in Late Preterm Infant

2025-12-28T11:14:17+02:00

Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare X‑linked dominant neurocutaneous disorder that predominantly affects females and is often lethal in males. It is caused by mutations in the IKBKG (NEMO) gene, leading to dysregulation of NF‑κB signalling and multisystem involvement. We report the case of a female infant born preterm at 34+6 weeks to a mother with type 2 diabetes and hypothyroidism. The infant presented at birth with vesiculobullous skin lesions that evolved into pustular and crusted eruptions along Blaschko lines, consistent with IP. A family history revealed two older sisters with similar cutaneous findings in later stages, strengthening diagnostic suspicion. The neonatal course was complicated by hypoglycaemia requiring intensive glucose therapy and subsequent hypernatremic dehydration managed with careful fluid balance. Empirical antibiotics were initiated for presumed sepsis but discontinued after negative cultures. Dermatology review, genetic counselling, and multidisciplinary follow‑up were arranged. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of early IP presentations, which may mimic neonatal infection, and underscores the importance of recognising Blaschko line distribution and eliciting family history. Vigilant monitoring for metabolic disturbances and systemic complications, alongside coordinated multidisciplinary care, is essential to optimise outcomes in affected neonates.

The Effect of Radiocontrast Exposure on Kidney Function of Cardiac Catheterization Patients

2026-01-12T13:18:52+02:00

One of the important organs in the body is the kidneys, and its primary function is to remove excess fluids and salts from the body and regulate blood pressure and many other balance factors. One medically important diagnostic and therapeutic procedure is cardiac catheterization, which can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI). Risk factors that predict the development of acute renal failure after cardiac catheterization include exposure to contrast materials. It is one of the essential elements of angiography. Providing contrast dye has disadvantages, especially in those who already have renal impairment, as they may develop contrast-induced nephropathy. This study aimed to investigate cardiac catheterization patients who were injected with contrast agent and compare the results of kidney function before and after cardiac catheterization for 3 days, and also compare the volume of contrast agent that was injected and the dose of radiation to which the patient is exposed, and compare kidney function (creatinine and urea) before and after cardiac catheterization. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in private clinics, and 119 cases who underwent cardiac catheterization were collected; their ages ranged from 28 to 90 years. COBAS INTEGRA 400 PLUS was used to analyze the samples. The contrast agents used in angiography are Ultravist 370, Omnipaque 350, and Visipaque 320. The dose varies according to the patient's age, weight, and health condition. The results of the urea and creatinine test before and after cardiac catheterization showed that only urea levels changed after cardiac catheterization, and the results were statistically significant, P < 0.05. While the levels of urea and creatinine in people with chronic kidney disease did not differ, the results did not differ as urea decreased after cardiac catheterization. While comparing males and females, the results were found to be statistically significant, P < 0.05 for males. In light of the results of the study and its discussion, it was concluded that the contrast materials used in cardiac catheterization affect the kidney functions of patients. Kidney function levels may be affected by some factors, including contrast volume and intravenous fluids after cardiac catheterization. Medical history and duration of illness.

Assessment of Self-Reported Oral Health Status and Oral Hygiene Habits Among Pregnant Women in Libya

2026-01-12T11:23:43+02:00

Oral health during pregnancy is critical for maternal and fetal well-being. Limited data exist regarding pregnant women’s oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Libya. This study aimed to evaluate self-reported oral health status and hygiene habits among pregnant women. The findings may contribute to enhancing maternal oral health programs and guiding future policy interventions. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 159 pregnant women attending antenatal care at Gharyan Teaching Hospital and affiliated clinics, Libya, from July to November 2025. Participants completed a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The majority of participants were aged 21–30 years (54.1%) and had university-level education (61.0%). While most women brushed their teeth (95.0%), only 36.5% reported brushing twice daily, and 20.8% visited the dentist regularly. Knowledge regarding the relationship between oral health and overall health was high (86.2%), but awareness of preventive measures, such as fluoride toothpaste (37.7%) and alternative cleaning methods (39.0%), was limited. Overall, 77.4% of participants demonstrated adequate oral health knowledge (score ≥7). Higher education level and visiting a dentist during pregnancy were significantly associated with adequate knowledge (p = 0.024 and p = 0.005, respectively). Age, parity, trimester, and perceived oral health status were not significantly associated with knowledge. Pregnant women in this study demonstrated good general awareness of oral health but suboptimal preventive practices and limited knowledge of specific oral hygiene measures. Targeted oral health education and accessible dental services during pregnancy are recommended to improve maternal oral health outcomes in Libya.

Association Between Calcium Status, Diet, and Lifestyle Factors Among School-Aged Children in Al Bayda, Libya

2026-01-13T17:29:55+02:00

The acquisition of peak bone mass during early and middle childhood is a fundamental determinant of long-term skeletal integrity. In Al-Bayda, Libya, unique environmental variables—including extreme seasonal thermoregulation challenges—may significantly alter behavioral and physical activity patterns, potentially compromising mineral homeostasis within the pediatric population. This study aimed to evaluate serum calcium status among children aged 5–10 years in Al-Bayda and to delineate the dietary, environmental, and lifestyle factors associated with deficiency. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 198 children (75 males; 123 females) at the Al-Bayda Specialized Laboratory. Following the quantification of serum calcium levels, a structured 25-item validated questionnaire was administered to caregivers to assess nutritional habits, sedentary versus active behaviors, and clinical symptomatology. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-tests and Odds Ratio (OR) calculations to identify significant correlates of deficiency. Quantitative analysis indicated that 86% of the cohort maintained normocalcemia (mean = 9.815 mg/dL), whereas 14% exhibited clinical deficiency (mean = 7.770 mg/dL). High-frequency fast-food consumption was identified as the primary dietary risk factor, yielding a 32.3-fold increase in the likelihood of deficiency. Conversely, daily milk consumption (OR = 12.38) and regular solar radiation exposure (OR = 53.48) served as the most robust protective factors. Clinically, calcium depletion was strongly associated with osteodynia (74.1%), dental caries (74.1%), and a universal prevalence of anorexia (100%). Notably, children with calcium deficiency were 35.6 times more likely to present with clinical markers indicative of impaired immune function. Pediatric calcium status in Al-Bayda is predominantly influenced by modifiable lifestyle behaviors rather than age-dependent physiological variables. The profound correlation between insufficient heliotherapy, poor dietary quality, and mineral depletion underscores the exigency for targeted public health interventions. Enhancing community literacy regarding safe UV exposure and implementing fortified school-based nutritional programs are imperative to mitigate the risk of impaired skeletal development in this region.

Intracellular Signaling Mechanisms Governing Odontoblast Differentiation During Physiological Dentin Repair: An Experimental Study in Dental Clinics of Alexandria, Egypt

2026-01-21T17:08:48+02:00

Natural dentin repair is a biologically mediated process that preserves tooth vitality through odontoblast activity and intracellular signaling pathways. This study employed a mixed methods design, combining laboratory experiments with descriptive analytical surveys of dentists in Egypt, to investigate the mechanisms of odontoblast differentiation and assess clinical knowledge and practices related to regenerative dentistry. Laboratory analyses included microscopic and molecular techniques to evaluate cellular signaling during dentin repair, while questionnaires were distributed to 100 dentists across public and private sectors. Data were analyzed using quantitative statistics, qualitative assessments, and integrative interpretation of laboratory and clinical findings. Results revealed significant positive correlations between dentists’ knowledge of intracellular signaling and their clinical practices, with Spearman correlation coefficients ranging from 0.52 to 0.65 (p = 0.01). A majority of respondents (80%) reported experience with mesenchymal stem cell therapy for craniofacial bone remodeling or dental tissue regeneration, and 70% observed improvements in bone density, while 65% reported enhanced dental tissue regeneration. Imaging studies were widely used, with 85% of participants undergoing radiographic or CT evaluations to monitor progress. Despite these encouraging outcomes, only 35% of dentists were familiar with molecular techniques targeting signaling pathways, and just 40% reported applying clinical strategies to enhance odontoblast differentiation. Notably, 75% expressed interest in specialized training to improve their knowledge and practices in regenerative dentistry. The study concludes that while theoretical awareness of dentin repair mechanisms is relatively strong, clinical application remains limited. Bridging this gap through structured training and evidence-based protocols will be essential for integrating molecular insights into routine dental practice, thereby improving dentin repair outcomes and long-term tooth vitality.