Volume 13 issue 3 (March 2026)

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

Retinal vasculitis during a flare of systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report

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.

Total duodeno-pancreatectomy for intraductal papillary and mucinous tumor of the pancreas: report of a complex case

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.

Cervicofacial Actinomycosis Mimicking a Tumor in a Child

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.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in a Morbidly Obese Patient : A Case Report

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.

Ileal perforation secondary to fish bone ingestion: case report and literature review

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130321

Authors: Dalila REMACHE1, Sana CHABOU2, Salim MAKHLOUFI1

Affiliations: 1-Department of surgery A, University Hospital of Constantine, University of Constantine3, Algeria. 2- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, EHS Sidi Mabrouk, University of  Constantine3, Algeria.

Abstract

Introduction: Intestinal perforations caused by fish bones are an uncommon but recognized cause of digestive tract perforation, often presenting with variable clinical features. Abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) remains the cornerstone for diagnosis. Case report: We describe the case of a 60-year-old woman admitted with diffuse abdominal pain initially localized to the right iliac fossa, accompanied by vomiting. Plain abdominal radiography revealed pneumoperitoneum, confirmed by CT scan, which demonstrated diffuse, multi-compartmental pneumoperitoneum without intraperitoneal fluid or clinical signs of peritonitis. CT also identified two foreign bodies within the ileum. The surgical procedure consisted of extraction of the fish bones and closure of the perforations. Conclusion:  This case highlights an atypical presentation characterized by the coexistence of two fish bones and two ileal perforations, along with diffuse pneumoperitoneum in the absence of clinical peritonitis. It underscores the pivotal role of CT imaging in rapidly identifying unusual scenarios.

Keywords: fish bone, foreign body, perforation, ileum.

Association of glioblastoma and cerebral sarcoma: clinical case and literature review

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130320

Authors: Asma MOUS¹,Lotfi TALEB¹, Abdelbaki BOUKERCHE²

Affiliations: 1- Faculté de Médecine Dr Benaouda Benzerdjeb, Université Abou Bekr Belkaid de Tlemcen ; Service de Radiothérapie, EHS.CAC Ahmed Ben Bella, Tlemcen – Algérie. 2- Faculté de Médecine, Université d’Oran 1 ; Service de Radiothérapie, EHS en oncologie Emir Abdelkader d’Oran – Algérie.

Abstract

The association of glioblastoma and cerebral sarcoma constitutes an exceptionally rare and complex clinicopathological entity, first described by Stroebe in 1895. We present the case of a 30-year-old woman with a personal history of neurofibromatosis type 1 who was diagnosed with a mixed brain tumor. The diagnosis of glioblastoma associated with sarcoma was confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Therapeutic management consisted of two neurosurgical resections one month apart, followed by concomitant chemoradiotherapy and subsequently adjuvant chemotherapy.

Keywords: glioblastoma, sarcoma, central nervous system, radiotherapy, chemotherapy.

Bilateral hemorrhagic suffusion in Parafalcine region of the brain revealing cerebral venous thrombosis in a young woman: a case report

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130319

Authors: Abdourahaman ABOUBACAR NAHANTCHI1, Djibrilla BEN ADJI1,2, Mamane MAIKASSOUA2,4, Babana ADAMOU4, Ousmane ISSOUFOU HAMA4

Affiliations: 1- Service de Neurologie de  lHôpital de Référence de Maradi – Niger. 2- Université Dan Dicko Dankoulodo de Maradi – Niger. 3- Services d’Anesthésie et Réanimation de  lHôpital de Référence de Maradi – Niger. 4- Service de  Neurochirurgie de lHôpital de Référence de Maradi – Niger.

Abstract

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a neurological emergency. In young women, CVT occurs more frequently postpartum than during pregnancy. The clinical manifestations are polymorphic, characterized by neurological or psychiatric signs. The presence of cerebral hemorrhage on imaging in CVT poses a diagnostic challenge. We report the case of a 20-year-old Nigerien woman who was admitted to the neurology department of Maradi Referral Hospital for bilateral hemorrhagic suffusion in the parafalcine region of the brain, revealing cerebral venous thrombosis. The patient received treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin) at an anticoagulant dose for 10 days, followed by acenocoumarol and triple antibiotic therapy with metronidazole, gentamicin, and ceftriaxone, as well as motor rehabilitation. At three-month follow-up, the clinical outcome was characterized by recovery of muscle strength in the upper limbs and partial recovery in the lower limbs, with the ability to walk without assistance, and complete resolution of aphasia.

Keywords: Hemorrhagic cerebral, venous thrombosis, Postpartum.

Medical certification of causes of death in Algeria: challenges and prospects for a national mortality registry

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130318

Authors: Ali AIT-MOHAND

Affiliations: Faculté de médecine – Université Mouloud Mammeri de Tizi-Ouzou – Algérie

Abstract

Medical certification of causes of death is a core component of health information systems and a key tool for health planning, epidemiological surveillance, and the evaluation of public health policies. In Algeria, although administrative death registration has achieved high coverage, the production and use of medical cause-of-death data remain incomplete and heterogeneous across wilayas. The regulatory reform introduced by Executive Decree No. 22-78 of April 28, 2022, which established a medical death certificate aligned with World Health Organization standards, represents a major regulatory advancement. However, its impact remains contingent on the consolidation of existing institutional arrangements and is constrained by the absence of a structured and sustainable national mortality registry. This review analyzes the organization of medical certification of causes of death in Algeria, describes recent developments, and discusses persistent system limitations in light of international experiences, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It critically examines prospects for digitalization of the medical death certificate and highlights key conditions required for the effective institutionalization of a national mortality registry, which is essential for improving health governance and ensuring international comparability of mortality data.

Keywords: mortality, causes of death, medical death certificate, mortality registry, Algeria.

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome : two cases highlighting diagnostic and aesthetic challenges

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130317

Authors: Amine RAHOU, Saliha BOUKHEMACHA, Najib TALEB, Malika BACHAOUI

Affiliations: Faculté de Médecine de l’Université Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella. Service de Médecine Interne, EHU 1er Novembre 1954, Oran, Algérie.

Abstract

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare orofacial granulomatosis that primarily affects young adults, with an estimated incidence of less than 0.1% and a slight female predominance. The diagnosis relies on a characteristic clinical triad: recurrent orofacial swelling, fissured tongue, and recurrent peripheral facial palsy; however, this complete triad is observed in only 8 to 25% of cases. Labial biopsy may reveal non-caseating epithelioid granulomas, which are essential for excluding other granulomatous conditions. We report two cases of young women presenting with the complete MRS triad. Both cases were characterized by recurrent lip swelling and successive episodes of facial palsy, resulting in significant functional and aesthetic impairment. Biopsy, imaging, and immunological workup excluded alternative diagnoses. Initial systemic corticosteroid therapy proved ineffective in both patients, necessitating the introduction of methotrexate, which led to notable clinical improvement. The etiopathogenesis of MRS remains poorly understood, with genetic, environmental, and immunological factors potentially implicated. Diagnosis is frequently delayed, particularly in monosymptomatic presentations. Treatment is primarily based on corticosteroid therapy, whereas immunosuppressants and reconstructive surgery are reserved for severe or disfiguring forms. Given the considerable aesthetic and psychosocial burden of the disease, a multidisciplinary approach — including psychological support — is warranted.

Keywords: Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome, peripheral facial paralysis, fissured tongue, orofacial swelling, non-caseating granuloma.