Andargachew Almaw

Background and Aims: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia, particularly among university students living in communal settings. However, limited data exist on the trends of these infections among university students. This study aimed to assess the 5‐year stool‐test positivity proportion and trends of IPIs among symptomatic students attending the Debre Tabor University student clinic. Methods: A retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted using data extracted from laboratory registration books at the DTU student clinic from 2021 to 2025. A total of 7778 saline wet‐mount stool examination records from students suspected of IPIs were reviewed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were computed, and the chi‐square test was used to compare infection rates between genders. All confidence intervals were calculated using the exact Clopper‐Pearson binomial method. Results: A total of 7778 stool examination records were reviewed. Of these, 189 records were excluded due to incomplete data, and 7589 records were included in the final analysis. The overall stool‐test positivity for intestinal parasites among symptomatic clinic attendees was 30.3% (2299/7589; 95% CI: 29.3–31.3). Protozoan infections accounted for 28.8% (2187/7589; 95% CI: 27.8–29.8), while helminthic infections were less common at 1.5% (112/7589; 95% CI: 1.2–1.8). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was the most prevalent parasite (15.8%; 1201/7589; 95% CI: 14.9–16.7), followed by Giardia lamblia (12.8%; 966/7589; 95% CI: 12.0–13.6). Annual positivity rates ranged from 27.4% (2024) to 31.6% (2021), but the Cochran‐Armitage test for trend showed no statistically significant linear trend ( Z = −0.89, p = 0.37). Conclusion: This study identified a substantial stool‐test positivity proportion (30.3%) among symptomatic students attending the DTU student clinic for suspected IPIs. E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia were the predominant parasites identified. These findings highlight the need for improved sanitation infrastructure, health education, and targeted screening programs for students presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Background and Aims: Clinical specimen rejection is a significant issue in laboratory medicine, particularly in resource‐limited settings such as Ethiopia. Understanding the underlying reasons for specimen rejection is crucial for implementing effective strategies to minimize errors, enhance laboratory performance, and improve patient care. The aim of this study was to assess the rate and reasons for clinical specimen rejection at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Laboratory from June 17 to July 16, 2025. Methods: An institution based cross‐sectional study was conducted from June 17 to July 16, 2025. It included all specimens submitted for diagnostic testing during the study period. Data were analyzed using STATA version 17. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the rejection rate and identify possible reasons. Binary and Multivariable logistic regression was used to show the association between the rejection rate and independent variables and p ‐value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Out of 952 specimens analyzed, 58; 6.09% (95% CI: 4.6–7.6) were rejected. Mislabeled samples (17; 29.3%) and clotted samples (15; 25.86%) were the common causes of specimen rejection. Most rejections were associated with specimens collected by non‐laboratory health professionals 35 (60.3%), not trained refresher training 44 (75.9%), and those with over 6 years of experience 40 (69%). The highest rejection rates were observed from the inpatient service and during the day shift, 51 (87.94%) and 45 (77.58%), respectively. Samples not collected by laboratory personnel and health professionals not taken refresher training had higher odds of rejection. Conclusion: The present study showed that the overall specimen rejection rate was relatively high from previous studies conducted. Mislabeled samples, clotted specimens, and low sample volume were the most common reasons of rejection. Samples taken by health professionals not taking refresher training and collected by health professionals other than laboratory personnel showed high risk to be rejected.

Background and Aims: Intestinal parasitic infections pose significant public health challenges in developing countries. They are major concerns in rehabilitation centers for individuals with mental disabilities. However, little attention has been given to preventing these infections among the mentally disabled groups. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors in psychiatric patients. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional study at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia between August 2024 and October 2024, on 402 participants enrolled by convenient sampling technique. The sociodemographic and clinical data were collected by psychiatry specialists. Stool samples were examined using wet mount, formol‐ether concentration, and modified acid‐fast staining techniques. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 23. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions determined the association between variables. Factors with p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, 26.6% (107/402); [95% CI: 22.1%–31.3%] of the study participants had intestinal parasitic infections. Ascaris lumbricoides ,9% (36/402); [95% CI: 6.5%–12.2%], was the most prevalent. Rural residence AOR = 3.5 (95% CI: 1.06–11.75), Large family size AOR = 2.9 (95%CI: 1.93, 5.46), Drinking surface water AOR = 2.6 (95%CI: 1.65, 5.00), in accessibility of latrine utilization AOR = 2.3 (95%CI: 1.34, 5.20), being bare footed AOR = 3.5 (95% CI: 1.23, 9.96), consuming raw vegetables/fruits AOR = 6.8 (95% CI: 4.38,10.63), and untrimmed finger nails AOR = 2.5 (95% CI: 1.80, 6.56) were significant factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections in psychiatric patients. Conclusion: The study revealed the significant prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in psychiatric patients. Rural residence, larger family size, drinking surface water, unavailability of latrine, not wearing shoes, consuming uncooked vegetables/fruits, and untrimmed fingernails are the significant risk factors favouring the acquisition and spread of intestinal parasitic infections in psychiatric patients.

Background and Aims: Human schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease causing organ damage and developmental delays in children. Updated data on its distribution is vital for targeted interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of Schistosoma haematobium infection among school‐age children in Dubti city district, Northeast Ethiopia. Methods: A school‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022. A total of 416 school children were recruited using systematic random sampling. Data on socio‐demographic and environmental factors were collected via a structured questionnaire. Urine samples were analyzed using sedimentation and filtration techniques. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 23, employing descriptive statistics and both univariate and multivariate logistic regression to identify associated factors. Results: Of the 405 samples analyzed, the prevalence of S. haematobium was 60.2% (95% CI: 55.41%, 64.90%). The prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium using two diagnostic techniques, with the filtration method 244 (60.2%) showing significantly higher sensitivity than the sedimentation method 161 (39.8%). Multivariable analysis revealed that sex (AOR = 0.568), residence (AOR = 0.490), swimming habits (AOR = 2.079), washing clothes near drainage (AOR = 2.68), and the source of water for domestic purposes (AOR = 3.311) were statistically significant factors associated with infection. Conclusion: The study found a high prevalence of S. haematobium among school children. To combat this, interventions should focus on providing safe water, conducting mass drug administration in schools, and implementing health education programs.

Background and Aims: Tuberculosis is a major infectious disease that affects hematological profiles. However, limited data assess changes in hematological profiles among patients with pulmonary and multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the hematological profiles of pulmonary and multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis patients at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from January 1 to May 30, 2023. Methods: An institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted on 159 study participants selected by the consecutive sampling technique. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected through a structured questionnaire and checklist, respectively. A complete blood count was performed using an automated hematology analyzer, and a sputum sample was analyzed using the Gene Xpert MTB/RIF. The data were entered into Epi‐Data software and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. The median values of hematological parameters were compared using the Kruskal–Wallis H test. A p ‐value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The median and interquartile ranges of red blood cell parameters (red blood cell, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean cell volume, and mean cell hemoglobin concentration) were significantly lower in pulmonary tuberculosis patients compared to those with multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis and healthy controls. In pulmonary tuberculosis patients, the magnitude of anemia and neutrophilia was 18.2% (29/159) and 9.4% (15/159), respectively. Meanwhile, eosinophilia 8.2% (13/159) and neutropenia 6.3% (10/159) were high among multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis patients. Conclusion: Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis show lower red blood cell parameters, higher counts of white blood cells and neutrophils compared to multi‐drug‐resistant tuberculosis and healthy controls. Multi‐drug‐resistant tuberculosis patients also exhibit reduced red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels versus healthy individuals. Both pulmonary tuberculosis and multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis patients displayed various hematological abnormalities like anemia, leucopenia, neutropenia, eosinophilia, and thrombocytopenia. Therefore, assessing these hematological profiles can aid in diagnosing and monitoring tuberculosis patients.

Background: Turnaround time refers to the time it takes from receiving a sample in the lab to delivering test results to clinicians or stakeholders. This study aimed to determine the magnitude of prolonged turnaround time in the hematology laboratory of three selected hospitals in the South Gondar zone, North West Ethiopia. Methodology: An institutional‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted from September to December 2023 in the hematology laboratory of selected South Gondar zone hospitals. Debre Tabor's Comprehensive Specialized Hospital was selected purposefully as the sole referral hospital, while Addis Zemen and Nefas Mewcha primary hospitals were randomly selected. The final sample size was 2401. Missing values ( n = 70) were managed using the deletion method, assuming data were Missing completely at Random (MCAR). The final dataset included 2331 dataset. Result: Of the 2331 samples, 807 (34.6%: 95% CI 32.8%–36.6%) had prolonged turnaround time. Poor sample condition caused delays in 382 (16.4%) samples. Workday of the weeks, clotted blood samples, and blood fill levels were significantly associated with prolonged TAT. Conclusion: The magnitude of prolonged TAT in hematology laboratories is high. The delays are primarily driven by preanalytical factors, specifically poor sample condition (clotting and improper fill levels) and timing of collection (Fridays). Interventions should focus on enhancing preanalytical sample quality management and optimizing laboratory workflows to reduce prolonged TAT.

Malaria is a significant public health concern, particularly in endemic regions. Asymptomatic blood donors pose a risk for transfusion-transmitted malaria,

Background: Intestinal parasite infections (IPIs) are significant public health concerns, particularly for those with HIV/AIDS. Low hygiene standards, tainted water, and inadequate sanitation all contribute to Ethiopia’s high frequency of IPIs. HIV patients are still susceptible to several parasitic illnesses even after antiretroviral medication (ART) and deworming efforts have been implemented. The data in the study area are restricted, despite the fact that few studies describe IPIs among HIV patients. Furthermore, by taking sociodemographic and clinical aspects into account, this study produced thorough 5‐year data. In order to fill in the gaps in local epidemiological data and guide focused treatments, this study evaluated the frequency of IPIs and the factors that are linked to them among HIV patients receiving ART. Objective: To assess the frequency of IPIs and related variables in HIV/AIDS patients receiving ART at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (DTCSH), Ethiopia. Methods: A 5‐year retrospective hospital‐based study was conducted using medical records of 600 HIV patients on ART at DTCSH. Included were data registered between May 2020 and May 2025. Data on sociodemographic, CD ₄ counts, ART duration, and IPIs were extracted from patient cards using a convenient sampling technique. SPSS Version 26 was utilized for data entry and analysis. Descriptive statistics along with bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted. All variables in the multivariable logistic regression were deemed statistically significant if their p value was less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. Text, tables, and graphs were used to display the data. Results: Out of 600 records, 33.5% of people have IPIs. Entamoeba histolytica (59.7%) and Giardia lamblia (33.3%) were the most common parasites found. Individuals with age over 60 years and those living in rural areas had considerably higher IPIs ( p < 0.05). However, when comparing patient records examined in the first year to those in the fifth, the frequency of IPIs declined. Furthermore, those with low CD ₄ counts (less than 200 cells/μL), advanced WHO clinical stages (3‐4), and shorter ART durations (less than 5 years) had significantly higher likelihood of IPIs ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: Among HIV patients receiving ART, IPIs remain prevalent. Important determinants of IPIs include age, place of residency, CD ₄ count, WHO stages, and adherence to ART. Long‐term ART adherence has shown protective advantages, underscoring its importance in reducing the burden of IPIs. Enhancing the management of parasitic infections and HIV requires integrated strategies that include improved sanitation, frequent testing, and health education. Future large‐scale research is also necessary.

Background: Accurate hematological analysis relies heavily on the integrity of blood samples, which can be compromised by pre‐analytical errors such as hemolysis and clotting. This study aimed to determine the frequency and associated factors of clotted and hemolyzed samples in selected hospitals in South Gonder, Ethiopia. Methods: This institutionally based cross‐sectional study was conducted from September to December 2023 in northwestern Ethiopia at the medical hematology laboratories of selected South Gonder Zone hospitals. Debre Tabor's specialized referral hospital was selected. Addis Zemen and Nefas Mewcha primary hospitals were chosen at random. Results: Among the 2331 test samples, 829 (35.6%) were clotted, and 269 (11.5%) were hemolyzed. We found a significant association of clotting with contamination, inadequate sample volume, puncture site other than the median cubital region, more than three attempts to collect blood, and the use of a partially filled collection tube when attempting another vein puncture. Conclusion: On the basis of our observations, the findings presented here have a significant impact on patient diagnosis and treatment, leading to delayed or inaccurate diagnoses, inappropriate treatment decisions, increased risk of adverse events, and increased healthcare costs.

Background and Aims: Both intestinal parasitic infections and diabetes mellitus are major global health concerns, particularly in developing countries. The compromised immunity of diabetic patients increases their susceptibility to intestinal parasites. However, little is known about the burden of these infections among diabetic patients in Ethiopia, especially in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections among diabetic patients at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Methods: A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from December 1 to 30, 2024. A total of 262 participants were selected using systematic sampling. Data on sociodemographic and clinical factors were collected through a semi‐structured questionnaire. Stool samples were examined using direct wet mount, formol‐ether concentration, and modified Ziehl–Neelsen staining techniques. Data were entered into EPiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Logistic regression was employed to identify risk factors, with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals calculated. A p ‐value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 20.6% (95% CI: 15.9–26.0). Among the identified parasites, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar had the highest prevalence (26 cases, 9.9%), followed by Cryptosporidium spp . (15 cases, 5.7%) and Giardia lamblia (9 cases, 3.4%). Improper latrine utilization (AOR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.13–3.81), consumption of unwashed vegetables or fruits (AOR = 3.62, 95% CI: 1.14–7.70), drinking well or spring water (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.45–5.27), and the presence of domestic animals in the house (AOR = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.18–3.98) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections among diabetic patients. Conclusions: Intestinal parasitic infections are prevalent among diabetic patients, with key risk factors including improper latrine utilization, consumption of unwashed fruits or vegetables, drinking well or spring water, and the presence of domestic animals in the household.