Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130405

Authors: Farida ILIMI, Amel Leila REBOUH, Hamida GUENDOUZ, Lyès RAHAL

Affiliations: Etablissement Public Hospitalier Djillali Rahmouni, Alger – Algérie.

Abstract

In older healthcare facilities where architectural constraints limit full technical compliance of the operating theater, optimizing organizational processes represents a major lever for improving patient safety. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of implementing standardized procedures on adherence to perioperative practices and the incidence of surgical site infections (SSI). Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental, longitudinal, prospective study was conducted in the general surgery department of EPH Djillali Rahmouni. It included 334 consecutive patients who underwent elective surgery for digestive cancer — 167 in 2017 (baseline phase) and 167 in 2018 (intervention phase, following protocol standardization). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, applying Pearson’s chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test, and Student’s t-test. Results: The implementation of standardized procedures led to significant improvements in protocol adherence: compliance with the skin preparation protocol increased from 0% to 89.8% (p < 0.001), and pre-incision antibiotic prophylaxis from 0% to 95.8% (p < 0.001). Surgical safety checklist compliance doubled, rising from 20% to 48% (p < 0.05), and adherence to staffing limits in the operating room improved from 36% to 94% (p < 0.05). The SSI incidence rate decreased from 8.4% to 6.6%, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. Conversely, a significant reduction in bacteremia was observed, from 20% to 8.3% (p = 0.003). Discussion and Conclusion: Despite significant architectural constraints, organizational standardization markedly improved process indicators and perioperative safety. Although the overall reduction in SSI did not reach statistical significance, this approach represents an essential step toward continuous quality improvement. Further studies incorporating multivariate analysis of risk factors will be needed to confirm the long-term clinical impact. The introduction of standardized procedures and protocols for surgical activity at EPH Djillali Rahmouni in 2017, followed by their strict application in 2018, contributed to measurable improvements in operating room performance.

Keywords: digestive surgery; perioperative safety; surgical site infection; quality management.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130404

Authors: Meriem TAGUIA¹, Razika SALAH MARS²

Affiliations: 1- Service de pathologie et chirurgie buccales CHU Annaba, faculté de médecine d’Annaba – Algérie. 2- Service de pathologie et chirurgie buccales CHU Constantine – Algérie.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of dentists regarding medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) in the municipality of Annaba. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 dentists practicing in the municipality of Annaba. Participants completed a questionnaire consisting of two parts. The first part collected demographic data, including sex and specialty. The second part addressed bisphosphonates and their indications, identification of patients at risk of MRONJ, other medications associated with osteonecrosis of the jaws, the definition of MRONJ, its clinical manifestations, risk factors, and prevention methods. Results: Among the dentists surveyed, 60.8% were aware of MRONJ; however, only 35.1% were able to provide a correct definition. The majority (79.7%) had never encountered a patient with MRONJ. Only 18.9% were aware of the association between the risk of MRONJ in osteoporotic patients and the prolonged use (>4 years) of oral bisphosphonates or intravenous zoledronate, while 68.9% were unaware of this relationship and the remaining respondents answered incorrectly. Most participants were unfamiliar with the medications predisposing to MRONJ, and 59.5% incorrectly cited radiotherapy as a causative factor. Dento-alveolar surgery was identified as the primary local risk factor, and the mandible as the most frequently affected anatomical site. Conclusion: Dentists practicing in the municipality of Annaba demonstrated an overall low level of knowledge regarding MRONJ, although their awareness of preventive measures was satisfactory. These findings underscore the need to strengthen training programs related to MRONJ and its management within dental practice.

Keywords: Osteonecrosis of the jaws, medications, bisphosphonates, dentists’ knowledge, prevention.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130403

Authors: Zoheir BOUCHAIR¹, Khalida CHARAOUI², Amira BELHAMRA¹, Mohamed BENTAMENE¹, Imene NEHAL¹, Rabeh KHENNAOUI¹, Ali BELMIR¹

Affiliations: 1- Chirurgie générale au urgences chirurgicales CHU de Constantine – Algérie. 2- Service d’infectiologie, CHU de Constantine – Algérie.

Abstract

Introduction: Colon cancer is frequently diagnosed at the stage of complications, accounting for 60% to 70% of cases. In the absence of a consensus regarding the emergency management of left-sided colon cancer, the decision to restore bowel continuity is guided by the local condition of the colon and the patient’s overall health status; however, it often ultimately rests with the surgeon, depending on their availability, experience, workload, and on-call circumstances. Materials and Methods: This prospective comparative study evaluated two surgical techniques — single-stage surgery and two-stage surgery — over a 4-year period. A total of 124 patients admitted to the surgical emergency department for acute bowel obstruction secondary to a colonic tumor were included. The two approaches were assessed based on the following criteria: feasibility and short- to medium-term outcomes; morbidity and mortality; length of hospital stay; and short- to medium-term overall survival. Results: Single-stage surgery was performed in 62.1% of patients. This included 56 resections with anastomosis — 16 with intraoperative colonic lavage and 40 without — as well as one subtotal colectomy. No significant differences were observed in the quality of resection, length of hospital stay, or pTNM staging between the two groups. However, patients managed with single-stage surgery experienced a lower rate of postoperative complications. Conclusion: Acute bowel obstruction due to left-sided colon cancer remains a common surgical emergency, and its operative management lacks true standardization, leaving considerable discretion to the treating surgeon. A growing body of evidence comparing single-stage versus two-stage approaches favors the former, underscoring the need for further well-designed studies to establish a clear and widely accepted management consensus.

Keywords: Colon, obstruction, surgical treatment, therapeutic choice.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130402

Authors: Mohammed Nazim BENNAOUM^1,2, Abdelmadjid MEGUEDAD ^1,3, Affaf ADDA^1,2, Chafika MANOUNI^1,3, Mohamed CHEKKAL^1,2

Affiliations: 1- Faculté de médecine, Université Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella. 2- Service d’hémobiologie et banque de sang, EHU Oran. 3- Service d’hépato-gastro-enterologie, EHU Oran – Algérie.

Abstract

Introduction: Portal vein thrombosis is characterized by the formation of a thrombus within the portal vein. Development of portal vein thrombosis can be secondary to genetic abnormalities, circumstantial factors, iatrogenic or related to other pathologies. Material and methods: In this case study, 67 patients with portal vein thrombosis and 105 healthy individuals as controls were enrolled. We studied the relationship between hemostasis disorders and development of portal vein thrombosis. Results: The mean age of the patients was 44 years with a sex ratio of 0.59. Antithrombin deficiency was found in 37% of patients and 8% of controls. Protein C deficiency was observed in 40% of patients and was absent in controls. Protein S deficiency was present in 27% of patients and 3% of controls. Consequently, a significant statistical relation was found between development of portal vein thrombosis and deficit of physiological coagulation inhibitors. Factor V Leiden and antiphospholipid antibodies were found in 2% and 3% of patients respectively, however, the relation with portal vein thrombosis was not statistically established. Combined deficit of more than one physiological coagulation inhibitor was found in 48% of patients. Conclusion: Deficiency of physiological coagulation inhibitors was a major cause of portal vein thrombosis. However, the constitutional or acquired origin of these defects has not been determined.

Keywords: Portal vein thrombosis, Physiological coagulation inhibitors, Hemostasis.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130401

Authors: Khatima MEZHOUD¹, El Amine CHEROUAL², Imene BOUFENARA¹, Manar BOUHEDJA¹, Wail BOUDRAA¹.

Affiliations: 1- Université de Constantine3 Salah Boubnider – Algérie. 2– Université de Sétif – Algérie.

Abstract

Introduction. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance and conserve fungal biodiversity in Algeria, this study presents a comprehensive inventory of macromycetes across three regions of Eastern Algeria: Constantine, Skikda, and Jijel. Field surveys were conducted between November 2024 and May 2025, covering multiple mushroom fruiting periods. The primary objective is to contribute to a better understanding of local fungal diversity by documenting the species present, along with their taxonomic and ecological characteristics. Methods. Species identification was based on classical macroscopic criteria (morphology, coloration, odor, and texture), spore print analysis, and the use of specialized literature and digital tools to refine taxonomic classification. This combined approach enabled accurate identification of all species collected in the field. Results. A total of 41 macromycete species were accurately identified. The results reveal a clear predominance of the phylum Basidiomycota, with the majority of species belonging to the order Agaricales. The most represented families are Inocybaceae, Agaricaceae, and Polyporaceae. The recorded fungi are distributed between lignicolous habitats (decaying wood) and terricolous habitats (forest soils). Ecologically, the majority of species are saprophytic, playing an essential role in the decomposition of organic matter, while a smaller number of mycorrhizal and parasitic species were also recorded. Regarding edibility, approximately one-third of the identified species are edible, whereas the remainder are either inedible or toxic. Conclusion. This inventory highlights the richness and diversity of macromycetes in the forests of Eastern Algeria. The resulting dataset constitutes a valuable resource for future mycological research in the region and may inform the development of fungal biodiversity conservation strategies.

Keywords: Macromycetes, fungal biodiversity, inventory, Algeria.

Original Articles / Articles originaux

Epidemiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of community-acquired complicated intra-abdominal infections at the university hospital center of Constantine, Algeria. Khalida CHARAOUI, Nadia BOULAKEHAL, Zoheir BOUCHAIR, Ali BELMIR, Omar KAOUECHE, Kaddour BENLABED, Rafik KARA-MOSTEFA, Hichem MAKHLOUFI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130301

Screening for irreversible airflow obstruction in patients with coronary artery disease. Zohra KHELIFI, Hacène MEHDIOUI, Leila BELKADI, Mohamed BOUGRIDA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130302

Is severe sleep apnea syndrome associated with more extensive coronary involvement? Angiographic and clinical analysis in 241 patients admitted for a first NSTE-ACS: an Algerian prospective study. Sofiane GHEMRI, Adlane REZZOUG, Sihem ATOUB, Nachida BENMIRADI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130303

Medico-economic analysis of hospital costs related to the management of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at the hospital and university establishment of   November 1st, 1954 of Oran. Melissa CHABANE, Habiba FETATI, Halima ROUABAH, Souhila BOUATTAM, Saîda Hanane ZITOUNI-NOURINE, Fatma BOUDIA, Houari TOUMI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130304

Benefits of surface-guided respiratory gating radiotherapy in the treatment of left breast cancer: a study of 32 patients. Lilia NAOUN, Hadjar GOSSA, Karima MELAIS, Amina AMIRECHE, Billel BACHA, Nacereddine SANAH, Abdesselem BRIHMAT. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130305

Evaluation of atlas-based automatic segmentation (abas) in head and neck cancer radiotherapy: experience of the Annaba University Hospital. Lilia NAOUN, Sanah NACERDDINE, Karima MELAIS, Soumeya MANSOURI, Amina AMIRECHE, Abdesselem BRIHMAT. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130306

Comparison of the impact of amitriptyline and prazepam on sleep quality in patients with pregabalin use disorder. Fatema Zohra BENABED, Ibtissem BOUTRIF, NH BENZAZOU, Meriem BENABED, Nesrine FEKAR, Souad GUENDOUZ, Mohammed Adil SELKA, Fatma BOUDIA, Hassene BOUCIF, Houari TOUMI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130307

Acute Kidney Injury in Preeclampsia: Identification of Predictive Factors and Prognostic Assessment. Ouafa GUELLATI, Ouissem GUELLAT, Mehdi MIADI, Imed DIABI, Amina BELLILI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130308

Bacteriology and epidemiology of community-acquired and nosocomial peritonitis at Mustapha Hospital in Algiers, Algeria. Nassila Farah LALLAOUI, Maissem MADOUI, Hayet MADANE, Wahiba AMHIS, SAMIRGOURARI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130309

Clinical symptoms are associated with ultrasound synovitis in digital osteoarthritis. Sihem KOURTAA, Assia HADDOUCHE, Sabrina HAID, Naouel KHALDOUN, Fella HANNI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130310

High-dose vitamin B6 in Algeria: descriptive study of prescriptions and clinical effects in 22 patients. Fazia KERKOUB, Naila KERKOUB, Rachid DJAFER. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130311

Type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents at the Annaba University Hospital: epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects. Hasna SEHAB, Zahira BOUDIAF, Djamila BELAMRI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130312

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Uveitis in Spondyloarthritis. Sabrina HAID, Sihem KOURTAA, Naouel KHALDOUN, Imen MEGATELI, Aicha LADJOUZE-REZIG, Fella HANNI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130313

Before the COVID-19 Era, Were Coronaviruses Involved in Cases of Encephalitis and Meningoencephalitis? A Cohort Study. Nora RIGHI, Meriem DEBBABI, Rihab FELLAH, Mélissa DOUMANDJI, Yahia Abdelmoumen MEKKI, Bruno LINA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130314

Encephalitis and Meningoencephalitis in Children in Batna, Algeria. Nora RIGHI, Loubna RAHMOUNE, Mélissa DOUMANDJI, Rihab FELLAH, Yahia Abdelmoumen MEKKI, Daniel FLORET, Bruno LINA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130315

Review articles / Mises au point

Prognostic imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma: from diagnosis to stratification. Hichem El Azhari BENMAMAR, Mustapha BOUMENDJEL, Youcef KHENCHOUL, Dalal ZERROUK. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130316

Medical certification of causes of death in Algeria: challenges and prospects for a national mortality registry. Ali AIT-MOHAND. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130318

Case reports / Cas cliniques

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome : two cases highlighting diagnostic and aesthetic challenges. Amine RAHOU, Saliha BOUKHEMACHA, Najib TALEB, Malika BACHAOUI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130317

Bilateral hemorrhagic suffusion in Parafalcine region of the brain revealing cerebral venous thrombosis in a young woman: a case report. Abdourahaman ABOUBACAR NAHANTCHI, Djibrilla BEN ADJI, Mamane MAIKASSOUA, Babana ADAMOU, Ousmane ISSOUFOU HAMA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130319

Association of glioblastoma and cerebral sarcoma: clinical case and literature review. Asma MOUS,Lotfi TALEB, Abdelbaki BOUKERCHE. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130320

Ileal perforation secondary to fish bone ingestion: case report and literature review. Dalila REMACHE, Sana CHABOU, Salim MAKHLOUFI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130321

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in a Morbidly Obese Patient : A Case Report. Nabila CHOUBANE. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130322

Cervicofacial Actinomycosis Mimicking a Tumor in a Child. Samia BICHA, Nadim ABDELMOUMEN. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130323

Total duodeno-pancreatectomy for intraductal papillary and mucinous tumor of the pancreas: report of a complex case. Youcef KHENCHOUL, Hichem El Azhari BENMAMAR, Mustapha BOUMENDJEL, Dalel ZERROUK, Imen HAMIOUDA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130324

Retinal vasculitis during a flare of systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report. Naoual KHALDOUN, Sabrina HAID, Sihem KOURTAA, Naghib BOUILOUTA, Amina LOUAHCHI, Fella HANNI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130325

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130325

Authors: Naoual KHALDOUN¹, Sabrina HAID¹, Sihem KOURTAA¹, Naghib BOUILOUTA², Amina LOUAHCHI², Fella HANNI¹.

Affiliations: 1- Service de rhumatologie. EHS Boukhroufa-Ben Aknoun. Alger. 2- Ophtalmologue, cabinet libéral. Alger – Algérie.

Abstract

Retinal vasculitis is a rare but serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that can threaten vision and lead to permanent blindness. We report the case of a patient hospitalized for an SLE flare who presented with sudden visual loss. Ophthalmologic examination and fluorescein angiography revealed active retinal vasculitis with peripheral ischemic areas and macular edema. High-dose corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy — intravenous cyclophosphamide followed by azathioprine maintenance — were promptly initiated. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and urgent intervention in lupus-related retinal vasculitis. Despite a previously mild disease course over nearly nine years, limited to articular, cutaneous, and hematological manifestations, the patient developed a major sight-threatening complication. Rapid initiation of intensive therapy, combined with multidisciplinary ophthalmologic and rheumatologic follow-up, led to progressive recovery of visual acuity and complete resolution of retinal lesions. This report underscores the unpredictable nature of SLE and the need for continuous monitoring, while emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, urgent treatment, and coordinated care between rheumatologists and ophthalmologists in preventing severe visual complications. Retinal involvement should be systematically investigated in any patient presenting with ocular symptoms during an SLE flare.

Keywords: lupus, retinal vasculitis, blindness, immunosuppressants.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130324

Authors: Youcef KHENCHOUL¹, Hichem El Azhari BENMAMAR², Mustapha BOUMENDJEL³, Dalel ZERROUK⁴, Imen HAMIOUDA⁵

Affiliations: 1- Service de Chirurgie (A) Ibn Sina, CHU Benbadis, Constantine – Algérie. 2- service d’imagerie médical CHUC – Algérie. 3- service de gastro entérologie CHUC – Algérie. 4- service d’oncologie médicale CHUC – Algérie. 5- Doctorante en génétique, Constantine  – Algérie

Abstract

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas (IPMNs) are rare cystic neoplasms with significant malignant potential. Treatment is primarily based on surgical resection, tailored to the patient’s radiological and clinical profile. This case report highlights a specific technical approach in the management of a complex IPMN. A 69-year-old patient was admitted for a cystic pancreatic mass associated with dilation of both the main pancreatic duct (Wirsung duct) and the common bile duct. Imaging findings were suggestive of a main-duct IPMN. Following multidisciplinary discussion, the decision was made to perform a total pancreatectomy extended to the spleen, with digestive reconstruction involving two anastomoses: a choledochojejunostomy and a gastrojejunostomy. The postoperative course was complicated by the occurrence of a digestive fistula. Histopathological analysis confirmed an intestinal-type IPMN with focal gastric differentiation, without invasion or lymph node involvement (pTis N0 R0). Although technically demanding, this surgical approach achieved complete tumor resection with functional reconstruction. It demonstrates that a personalized management strategy, guided by malignancy risk criteria, can ensure both oncological efficacy and surgical safety. The surgical management of main-duct IPMNs requires adaptation to the anatomical and pathological specificities of each patient. This case contributes to the existing literature on the management of complex IPMNs and digestive reconstruction in the context of extended resection, and underscores the importance of preserving and ligating the left gastric vein in order to avoid extended gastric resection.

Keywords: IPMN, pancreas, pancreatic surgery, total pancreatectomy, clinical case.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130323

Authors: Samia BICHA ^{1,2,3 ,} Nadim  ABDELMOUMEN⁴

Affiliations: 1- Constantine 3 University. 2- Research Laboratory LR2M. 3- Pediatrics Department B, Constantine University Hospital Center. 4-Pathological Anatomy Laboratory, Constantine University Hospital Center – Algeria.

Abstract

Cervicofacial actinomycosis is a rare bacterial infection in children that often presents with nonspecific symptoms mimicking malignancy or other inflammatory processes, posing significant diagnostic challenges. We report the case of a 3-year-old boy who presented with a one-month history of a painless, firm, immobile 10 cm mass on the left side of his neck, following a brief febrile episode. Physical examination revealed a hard, non-tender mass fixed to deep structures with associated satellite lymphadenopathy, while the oral cavity appeared normal. Initial inflammatory markers were unremarkable, and bacteriological analysis of the ultrasound-guided biopsy was negative, likely due to prior antibiotic exposure and suboptimal anaerobic culture conditions. Cervical computed tomography demonstrated a heterogeneous mass infiltrating adjacent muscles. The diagnosis was ultimately confirmed by histopathological examination, which revealed a mixed inflammatory infiltrate with granulomatous features and characteristic actinomyces grains. The patient was successfully treated with a 21-day course of intravenous ceftriaxone — owing to a documented penicillin allergy — followed by oral antibiotic therapy, for a total treatment duration of six weeks, resulting in complete resolution of the lesion. This case underscores the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for cervicofacial actinomycosis in children presenting with persistent cervical masses, particularly in the context of a preceding febrile episode. It further highlights that a multidisciplinary approach integrating clinical assessment, imaging, and histopathology is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management.

Keywords: Actinomycosis, Cervicofacial, Neck Mass, Children, and Diagnosis.

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130322

Authors: Nabila CHOUBANE

Affiliations: Department of Medical and Surgical Emergency, Bab El Oued University Hospital, University of Health Sciences ; Faculty of  Medicine Youcef Elkhattib, Algiers – Algeria.

Abstract

Morbid obesity is an increasingly pressing challenge for emergency departments, owing to structural and technical limitations that compromise the delivery of appropriate care. A 48-year-old man with morbid obesity (body mass index [BMI] = 49 kg/m²) was admitted for acute respiratory distress secondary to severe pneumonia. Care was hampered by inadequate equipment, difficult venous access, and the inability to perform essential diagnostic investigations. Orotracheal intubation proved anatomically challenging. Despite transfer to the intensive care unit and prompt initiation of treatment, the patient died within 48 hours. This case underscores the urgent need for adapted hospital infrastructure, specific clinical protocols, and targeted staff training to ensure adequate care for patients with morbid obesity.

Keywords: Morbid obesity, Emergency care, Acute respiratory distress, Airway management, Resource-limited settings, Case report.