Analytical performance evaluation of the H100 lifotronic system for HBA1c measurement and hemoglobin fraction analysis

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DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130215

Authors: Hichem BENGHEZEL, Mourad SADELAOUD

Affiliations: Laboratoire d’Analyses Médicales Sadelaoud Batna – Algérie.

Keywords: H100 Lifotronic, HbA1c, Hemoglobin fractions, Method comparison, versatility.

Abstract

Background: Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a key biomarker for the diagnosis and long-term monitoring of diabetes mellitus. However, its measurement may be affected by hemoglobin variants and quantitative abnormalities, highlighting the need for analytical methods that are both robust and informative. Ion-exchange HPLC systems provide reliable HbA1c measurement together with direct visualization of hemoglobin profiles. Objective: To evaluate the analytical performance and clinical relevance of the H100 Lifotronic system for HbA1c measurement and hemoglobin fraction analysis, in comparison with the Tosoh G11 (HPLC) and the Sebia MiniCAP (capillary electrophoresis). Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical comparison study conducted under routine laboratory conditions. A total of 520 EDTA whole blood samples were analyzed for HbA1c comparison between the H100 and Tosoh G11 systems, according to CLSI EP09-A3 guidelines. A subgroup of 35 samples with hemoglobin variants (HbS, HbC) was evaluated separately. Comparison with the Sebia MiniCAP involved 54 samples for HbF, HbA₂, HbS, and HbC analysis. Correlation analysis, bias estimation, and regression analysis were performed. Results: The comparison between H100 and Tosoh G11 showed excellent agreement for HbA1c (r = 0.995), with a mean relative bias of approximately 2%, well below the ±3% clinical acceptability threshold. The bias was stable across the analytical range, with near-zero bias at higher HbA1c values. In samples with hemoglobin variants, correlation remained high (r = 0.962), with a mean relative bias of 2.98%. Comparison with the Sebia MiniCAP demonstrated almost perfect agreement for HbF (r ≈ 0.99). Overall agreement for HbA₂ was satisfactory, although expected discrepancies were observed in the presence of HbC, related to co-migration in capillary electrophoresis. HbS and HbC fractions were reliably identified by both techniques. Conclusion: The H100 Lifotronic system demonstrates strong analytical performance for HbA1c measurement, comparable to a reference HPLC analyzer, while offering integrated hemoglobin fraction analysis. This versatility, based on a single chromatographic platform, represents a significant clinical and organizational advantage, particularly in settings where diabetes and hemoglobinopathies coexist.

A deceptive form of laryngeal tuberculosis

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DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130214

Authors: Salah Eddine DERADJ, Samir BENYAHIA.

Affiliations: 1- Université Ferhat Abbas, faculté de médecine, Sétif, Algérie. 2- Université Youcef Al Khatib, faculté de médecine, Alger, Algérie.

Keywords: laryngeal tuberculosis; laryngeal carcinoma; histopathology; anti-tuberculosis therapy.

Abstract

Laryngeal tuberculosis is a rare entity, accounting for less than 1% of tuberculosis localizations. Its pseudo-tumoral forms represent a major diagnostic challenge, particularly in elderly patients or heavy smokers, in whom laryngeal carcinoma is often suspected first. We report the case of an 81-year-old heavy smoker presenting with bilateral exophytic vocal cord lesions mimicking squamous cell carcinoma. Histological examination revealed caseating granulomatous inflammation. The clinical outcome was favorable under prolonged anti-tuberculosis therapy. This case highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of chronic laryngeal lesions in endemic areas.

Volume 13 issue 2 (February 2026)

Original Articles / Articles originaux

Development of an Extemporaneous Loperamide Hydrochloride Syrup. Sarah BOUAMEUR, Meriem DADOUCH, Yamina SEFFIH, Amani MEDJAHED. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130201

CKD–MBD in chronic hemodialysis patients. Are we compliant with the KDIGO 2017 recommendations?. Nouara BENKACIMI, Saliha LAHFAYA, Farida AIT MESSAOUD, Fatima TAOURIRI, Sabiha BELHAOUA, Amina MAADADI, Abdelkader HASROUF,  Mourad KASTALI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130205

First pollen calendar for Batna and its surrounding areas (Tazoult, Hamla): results of an aeropalynological study conducted during the pollen year 1 November 2022–31 October 2023. Abdelkader AMROUNE, Nabil MOHAMDI, Mohammed Tahar BEN MOUSSA, Dorra GHARBI, Dalila SMATI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130208

Economic burden of managing acute coronary syndrome at the cardiology department of Oran University Hospital – Algeria. Zakaria GHOUAIMI, Mohamed KERROUCHE, Yahia BOUDALI, Fatima Zohra KOUAIDIA,  Mohamed Amine BENDADA, Chahira FELLAG, Nadia BENATTA, Houari TOUMI. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130209

Chronic hemodialysis undernutrition: prevalence and associated factors. Djaouida KERBI BOUGHAZI, Mohamed BENKHALEF, Yasmina Raphael BOUCHERIT BENARAB. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130212

Analytical performance evaluation of the H100 lifotronic system for HBA1c measurement and hemoglobin fraction analysis. Hichem BENGHEZEL, Mourad SADELAOUD. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130215

Review articles / Mises au point

Endometriosis and unexplained musculoskeletal manifestations in reproductive-age women: A narrative review. Kamel REMITA, Atef DARWISH. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130206

Case reports / Cas cliniques

Polyarteritis nodosa associated with HBV revealed by prolonged fever. Nadir BENABDERRAHMANE, Mohamed Lyes DJAMA, Hayet BACHA, Yasmine BAGHDALI, Hind ARZOUR, Hayat KHALFAT, Charaf Amir ZINE, Malika BOUCELMA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2025.130202

Open-heart surgery for a symptomatic papillary fibroelastoma of the posterior papillary muscle of the mitral valve: A case report. Redha LAKEHAL, Radouane BOUKARROUCHA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130203

A giant retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma: a rare entity to know. A Case report. Louiza IAICHE ACHOUR,Lydia BOUKARMA, Sihem MAMMERI, Zakaria SEOUDI, Razika IBAGHRACHE, Abdelkrim ANOU. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130204

Vulvar Hidradenoma Papilliferum: When Common Symptoms Mask a Rare disease. Atef DARWISH, Dina DARWISH, Amany OMAR, Ruba M ALSOLAIMAN. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130207

Prosthetic Repair Failure in a Ventral Hernia in the Setting of an Untreated Ovarian Teratoma: A Learning Case Report. Sonia MEDAREGNAROU BOUBIR. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130210

Laparoscopic left hepatic lobectomy for cystic echinococcosis of the liver. Zakaria SEOUDI, Razika IBAGHERACHE, Mohamed STOUTAH, Radhia BOUDJEMA, Louiza IAICHE ACHOUR, Farouk BAKHTI, Abdelkrim ANOU. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130211

Complex cystic lesion of the male breast revealing an intracystic papillary carcinoma: radiological analysis, a case report and review of the literature . Radia BENYAHIA,  Fadwa HOCINE, Ryma ADJROUD, Ouardia ALLICHE, Mohamed SERIR. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130213

A deceptive form of laryngeal tuberculosis . Salah Eddine DERADJ, Samir BENYAHIA. DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130214

Complex cystic lesion of the male breast revealing an intracystic papillary carcinoma: radiological analysis, a case report and review of the literature 

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DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130213

Authors: Radia BENYAHIA,  Fadwa HOCINE, Ryma ADJROUD, Ouardia ALLICHE, Mohamed SERIR.

Affiliations: Département d’imagerie médicale, Centre Pierre et Marie Curie, Université d’Alger 1, Algérie.

Keywords: intracystic papillary carcinoma; male breast cancer; ultrasound; mammography.

Abstract

Male breast cancer is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases. Intracystic papillary carcinoma (IPC) of the breast is an extremely rare malignant tumor, particularly in men. It is a subtype of non-invasive encapsulated carcinoma that often presents with a benign appearance on imaging. We report the case of a 42-year-old man who presented with a right breast mass. Ultrasound revealed a solid-cystic lesion classified as BI-RADS 4. The biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of IPC. This case highlights the role of breast imaging in the detection and diagnostic guidance of rare papillary lesions in men.

Chronic hemodialysis undernutrition: prevalence and associated factors 

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130212

Authors: Djaouida KERBI BOUGHAZI, Mohamed BENKHALEF, Yasmina Raphael BOUCHERIT BENARAB

Affiliations: Clinical Physiology and Functional Explorations Department, Ibn Rochd Hospital, CHU Annaba – Algeria.

Keywords: chronic kidney disease, hemodialysis, anthropometry, malnutrition, nutritional assessment, dietary intake.

Abstract

Introduction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) involves multiple factors that contribute to an altered nutritional status. Among these, protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a major concern, as it negatively affects patient prognosis. Its prevalence varies depending on the diagnostic method used. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with chronic kidney disease. Materials and Methods. This descriptive, cross-sectional, non-interventional study evaluated the nutritional status of adult patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), aged 18 to 65 years, of both sexes. The assessment included dietary surveys, clinical examinations, and biochemical tests. The study was conducted in the hemodialysis unit of the Nephrology, Hemodialysis, and Transplantation Department at Ibn Sina University Hospital in Annaba, between October 2016 and January 2017. All participants completed a standardized questionnaire, underwent clinical and anthropometric assessments, and provided blood samples for biochemical analysis. Nutritional intake was also evaluated. Malnutrition was diagnosed using two tools: the Quetelet index (Body Mass Index) and the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA). Results.
A total of 74 patients were included. The overall prevalence of malnutrition was 16.2% according to the Quetelet index and 28.4% based on the SGA score. Mean protein and energy intake levels were suboptimal, averaging 23.64 ± 28.77 kcal/kg/day and 0.87 ± 0.30 g protein/kg/day (based on dry weight), respectively. Conclusion. Patients with chronic kidney failure are at high risk of malnutrition. This highlights the need for systematic nutritional screening, individualized dietary interventions, and regular psychological support to optimize adherence to therapeutic diets and improve patient outcomes.

Laparoscopic left hepatic lobectomy for cystic echinococcosis of the liver

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130211

Authors: Zakaria SEOUDI1, Razika IBAGHERACHE1, Mohamed STOUTAH1, Radhia BOUDJEMA2, Louiza IAICHE ACHOUR1, Farouk BAKHTI1, Abdelkrim ANOU1

Affiliations: 1- Department of General, Oncologic & Emergency Surgery. Douera University Hospital. Faculty of Medicine. Blida1 University. Algeria. 2- Department of Anesthesiology, Resuscitation & Intensive Medicine. Douera University Hospital. Blida1 University. Algeria.

Keywords: hepatic echinococcosis, radical resection, laparoscopic surgery.

Abstract

Liver involvement is the most common manifestation of cystic echinococcosis and generally necessitates surgical treatment. Although there is no clear consensus on whether radical or conservative surgery should be performed, selecting the most appropriate treatment to achieve the lowest morbidity, mortality, and recurrence rates is essential. With the dramatic development of minimally invasive techniques, there has been a gradual shift toward laparoscopic surgery, particularly favoring radical procedures, which have become an emerging approach in the management of hepatic cystic echinococcosis. We present the case of a 39-year-old man referred to our institution following diagnosis of isolated cystic echinococcosis of the left hepatic lobe, identified on medical imaging with positive hydatid serology. The patient received preoperative albendazole therapy, followed by successful radical laparoscopic surgical resection. Postoperative recovery was rapid and uneventful, allowing discharge on the fifth postoperative day. At 4-month follow-up, the patient demonstrated excellent clinical progress with complete resolution of symptoms.

Prosthetic Repair Failure in a Ventral Hernia in the Setting of an Untreated Ovarian Teratoma: A Learning Case Report

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130210

Authors: Sonia MEDAREGNAROU BOUBIR

Affiliations: Batna University Hospital Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Batna 2, Algeria.

Keywords: incisional hernia, mesh repair, ovarian teratoma, intra-abdominal pressure, evisceration, hernia recurrence.

Abstract

Prosthetic repair of ventral incisional hernias may fail in the presence of unaddressed intra-abdominal pathologies that increase postoperative risk. We report the case of a 58-year-old obese woman (BMI 41 kg/m²) with a recurrent ventral incisional hernia and an untreated mature ovarian teratoma. Retromuscular mesh repair was performed without teratoma excision. Postoperative complications included respiratory distress, renal dysfunction, and two eviscerations requiring reoperations. The teratoma was ultimately excised, and bowel resection was performed. The patient later presented with hernia recurrence. This case highlights the importance of considering and, when appropriate, addressing coexisting intra-abdominal pathology prior to abdominal wall reconstruction with prosthetic material to potentially reduce postoperative morbidity and recurrence risk.

Economic burden of managing acute coronary syndrome at the cardiology department of Oran University Hospital – Algeria

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130209

Authors: Zakaria GHOUAIMI1, Mohamed KERROUCHE2, Yahia BOUDALI3, Fatima Zohra KOUAIDIA1,  Mohamed Amine BENDADA4, Chahira FELLAG5, Nadia BENATTA2, Houari TOUMI1

Affiliations: 1- Pharmacovigilance Department, Oran University Hospital, Algeria. 2- Cardiology Department, Oran University Hospital, Algeria. 3- Epidemiology Department, Béjaya University Hospital Center, Algeria. 4- Oncology Department, CAC Bechar, Algeria. 5- Central pharmacy, Oran University Hospital, Algeria.

Keywords: Acute coronary syndrome; Hospital cost; Microcosting; Algeria; Health economics.

Abstract

Introduction: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a major cardiovascular emergency associated with considerable clinical and economic burden. In middle-income countries, data on hospital costs remain limited. Objective: To describe the components and direct hospital costs of ACS in an Algerian public hospital. Methods: A descriptive health economics study of the « cost of illness » type was conducted among 229 patients hospitalized for ACS in the cardiology department of Oran University Hospital. Only direct hospital costs, both medical and non-medical, were included. The estimation was based on the micro-costing method, incorporating clinical, organizational, and logistical expenses. Costs, expressed in Algerian dinars (DZD), were converted to euros (€). Results: The mean total hospitalization cost was DZD 315,921 (€2,368.80) for patients who received thrombolysis, DZD 241,550 (€1,811.10) for those who underwent coronary angiography/PCI, and DZD 180,413 (€1,352.70) for patients who did not undergo revascularization (p < 0.001). A strong positive correlation was observed between length of hospital stay and total cost (ρ = 0.673; p < 0.001). Non-medical costs (salaries, logistics, maintenance) constituted the predominant share. Conclusion: PCI appears to be the most efficient strategy in the context studied, combining shorter hospital stays and resource optimization despite high initial technical costs. These results highlight the need to integrate economic evaluation into national policies for ACS management and to encourage multicenter studies that include long-term costs.

First pollen calendar for Batna and its surrounding areas (Tazoult, Hamla): results of an aeropalynological study conducted during the pollen year 1 November 2022–31 October 2023

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130208

Authors: Abdelkader AMROUNE1, Nabil MOHAMDI1, Mohammed Tahar BEN MOUSSA1, Dorra GHARBI2,3, Dalila SMATI4

Affiliations: 1.Département de Pharmacie – Faculté de Médecine- Université de Batna 2 – Algérie. 2- Université du Nord-Ouest, Potchefstroom, Afrique du Sud. 3- Analyse et Expérimentation de l’écosystème, Gif sur Yvette, France. 4- Faculté de Pharmacie – Université des Sciences de la Santé-Alger – Algérie.

Keywords: Aeropalynology; Pollen calendar; Batna; Allergenic pollen; Cupressaceae.

Abstract

Objectives: Airborne pollen is a major cause of respiratory diseases, whose clinical expression is closely related to the bioclimatic context and the structure of local vegetation. This study aimed to provide the first detailed aeropalynological characterization of the atmosphere of Batna and its nearby areas (Tazoult, Hamla), located in the semi-arid Mediterranean zone of eastern Algeria, in order to describe the composition, intensity, and seasonal dynamics of the pollen spectrum and to establish a reference pollen calendar directly applicable in allergology. Materials and Methods: A prospective descriptive study was conducted over a full pollen year, from November 1, 2022, to October 31, 2023. Atmospheric particles were continuously collected using a Hirst-type volumetric sampler (Lanzoni VPPS 2000), installed in accordance with international recommendations, and subsequently analyzed by light microscopy for pollen identification and counting. For each taxon, the Annual Pollen Index (API), Monthly Pollen Indices (MPIs), and the Main Pollen Season (MPS) were calculated. The pollen calendar was established by retaining taxa with an API of at least 36 grains/m³/year. Results: A total of 31,853 pollen grains/m³ were recorded, distributed among 34 pollen types belonging to 28 families, with a marked predominance of trees and shrubs (85.40% of the API) over herbaceous taxa (12.70%) and Poaceae (1.60%). Four taxa accounted for 83.23% of the annual load: Cupressaceae (66.28%), Quercus sp. (9.77%), Chenopodiaceae–Amaranthaceae (3.80%), and Olea europaea L. (3.38%). The temporal distribution was highly skewed, with 88.41% of the annual load recorded from February to June, and a « hyper-pollinic » March alone accounting for 52.28% of the API. The calendar retained 24 taxa, 58% of which had confirmed allergenic potential, and made it possible to distinguish three pollen seasons and three successive allergenic pollen periods. Conclusion: This work provides the first aeropalynological reference for the Batna region, characterized by a high pollen load and the dominance of Cupressaceae in a semi-arid setting. The resulting data offer an operational basis for improving the diagnosis, prevention, and management of pollen allergies and support the implementation of regional monitoring and dissemination tools for allergenic pollen information.

Vulvar Hidradenoma Papilliferum: When Common Symptoms Mask a Rare disease

Fulltext (PDF)

DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130207

Authors: Atef DARWISH1,2, Dina DARWISH2, Amany OMAR3, Ruba M ALSOLAIMAN4

Affiliations: 1- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut University, Egypt. 2- Senior consultant of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AlEmadi Hospital, Doha, Qatar. 3- Department of Pathology, Minia University, Egypt and AlEmadi Hospital, Doha, Qatar. 4- Specialist of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AlEmadi Hospital, Doha, Qatar.

Keywords: Hidradenoma Papilliferum, Pruritus vulvae , Vulvar, Apocrine, Case report.

Abstract

Background: Chronic pruritus vulvae is a common gynecological complaint most often attributed to infectious, inflammatory, or dermatologic causes. Consequently, management frequently relies on topical treatments, which may delay the identification of less common etiologies. Hidradenoma papilliferum is a rare, benign tumor arising from anogenital mammary-like (apocrine) glands, typically presenting as a small, slow-growing vulvar nodule. Although histologically well-characterized, its clinical diagnosis can be challenging, particularly when lesions are small, asymptomatic on palpation, or partially concealed, leading to misdiagnosis and prolonged patient discomfort. Case presentation: We present a 32-year-old single female patient who experienced months of persistent vulvar discomfort, itching, and occasional vaginal discharge that did not respond to multiple courses of systemic and local antibiotics in addition to intermittent topical steroids. Moreover, she received systemic antihistamines to mitigate her symptoms. Physical examination during a second-opinion visit revealed a small (<1 cm), non-tender vulvar nodule. Excision was easily performed under local anesthesia, and histopathology confirmed hidradenoma papilliferum as an uncommon, benign apocrine tumor. Following excision, the symptoms resolved completely, with no recurrence at six-month follow-up. Conclusions: Small vulvar lesions such as hidradenoma papilliferum should be included in the differential diagnosis of any case of persistent or refractory pruritus vulvae. Clinically, thorough vulvar palpation in such cases before insertion of a vaginal speculum is mandatory to exclude any external vulvar causative lesion and avoid diagnostic delay. Not all vulvar symptoms are infectious or dermatologic in origin, and early identification of localized lesions can prevent unnecessary treatments and patient frustration.