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Castle A, Shazi G, Naidoo T, Govender A, Gqaleni N, Wong EB, Iwuji C, Herbst K, Steyn AJC, Siedner MJ. A roadmap for navigating partner engagement in community-based autopsy studies: Lessons from the field in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.11.14.24317019. [PMID: 39606406 PMCID: PMC11601782 DOI: 10.1101/2024.11.14.24317019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2024]
Abstract
Background The measurement of cause-specific mortality is critical for health system planning but remains a challenge in many low-resource settings due to societal, legal, and logistical barriers. We present a co-development process with community members for the design and implementation of an autopsy program to improve cause of death data in a historically underserved population. Methods We sought to develop an autopsy program at the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) Health and Demographic Surveillance Site (HDSS). The project proposes to obtain consent from families of deceased adults, to perform diagnostic autopsies by a trained pathologist, and to process samples to determine causes of death. Prior to launching the program, we engaged key partners in learning their perspectives about such a program and understanding the landscape of challenges needed for successful implementation. Herein, we describe lessons from interactions with these partners, including 1) the AHRI community advisory board (CAB), 2) the South Africa Department of Health (SA DoH), 3) local traditional authorities, 4) funeral home personnel, 5) traditional healers, and 6) healthcare providers. We also detail the development of community outreach efforts used to inform the public about the program. Results The partners provided valuable feedback on the study design and informed us of issues that needed to be addressed: community concerns about organ retention and sale (CAB), implications of how autopsy findings could spur litigation and erode trust in healthcare providers who determined alternate causes of death (SA DoH), a cultural practice that conflicts with the autopsy procedure (traditional healers), the need to educate families before they engage with funeral businesses (funeral homes), and enhancing our death referral network through healthcare providers. This led to protocol changes and an adapted community engagement strategy, which included educating healthcare providers, hosting community dialogs, broadcasting radio advertisements, and developing a film to describe autopsy procedures to families considering participation. Conclusions We present a comprehensive model of partner engagement for a community-based autopsy program in South Africa, leading to the co-development of a program that incorporates local customs around death while promoting buy-in and support from the government, civil society, and medical partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Castle
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Gugu Shazi
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Threnesan Naidoo
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ashendree Govender
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nceba Gqaleni
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Emily B. Wong
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Collins Iwuji
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Dept of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Kobus Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- DSI-SAMRC South African Population Research Infrastructure Network, South Africa Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Adrie JC Steyn
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Mark J. Siedner
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Kaba M, Solomon K, Awoke T, Yalew T, Mekasha A, Muhe L. " We want to know the cause of neonate's death to prevent similar incident in the future …": A Formative Study to Introduce Minimally Invasive Tissue Sampling Procedure at Community Level in Butajira. Ethiop J Health Sci 2024; 34:351-358. [PMID: 39944380 PMCID: PMC11811380 DOI: 10.4314/ejhs.v34i5.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Diagnostic autopsy has been in use for long to determine the cause of death. Since recently however 'Minimally Invasive Tissue Sampling' (MITS) is introduced to determine definitive cause of neonatal death. This study describes locally established facilitators to introduce MITS procedures to determine cause of neonatal death in Ethiopia. Methods Exploratory study was conducted in Butajira community where twenty-two key informants representing community opinion leaders' health care workers, five in depth interviews with parents who recently lost neonates and eight FGDs with community members were completed to generate evidences in line with the research question. Interviews and discussions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed facilitated by open-code software. Thematic analysis was applied to identify and interpret patterns of the evidences. Results In Butajira, ANC and delivery in health facilities was found to have improved over the years. Yet, child death remains an outstanding problem. While different factors were identified to cause the death of a child, relatively few participants choose to accept newborn death as a natural occurrence or will of the creator. Majority of the study participants expressed interest to know definitive cause of death using MITS. Yet, awareness about MITS and how it works was unanimously desired. It was found that husbands and wives are key to authorize MITS procedure while community opinion leaders including religious leaders were identified as key to influence parental decisions for the procedure. Conclusion Building awareness of the community members and engagement of opinion leaders is critical to introduce MITS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tewodros Yalew
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University
| | - Amha Mekasha
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University
| | - Lulu Muhe
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University
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Sreenivas A, Jaihind Jothikaran TA, Lewis L, Mathew M. Community perceptions of postmortem examination and minimally invasive tissue sampling in neonates:a qualitative study in South India. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:804. [PMID: 37990299 PMCID: PMC10664656 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06123-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postmortem examination is the gold standard for establishing the cause of death. Minimally Invasive Tissue Sampling (MITS) of organs is a novel approach that can be used as an alternative to postmortem examination. In this study, the community perceptions in two states in South India towards neonatal postmortem and the acceptance towards the MITS technique is studied. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted among the participants from Kerala and Karnataka to understand the perception towards postmortem and the acceptance of the novel MITS technique. The interviews were audio recorded, and a thematic analysis was done to identify the overarching themes and codes. RESULTS The knowledge and attitude of participants on conventional and MITS postmortem techniques, reasons for refusal, and the need for raising awareness were identified in the study. Participants favored the MITS techniques as it was less disfiguring and less time-consuming. The major concerns for refusal of conventional postmortem were that the procedure was disfiguring, time-consuming, and caused emotional stress to the parents. CONCLUSIONS Participants favored the MITS approach over conventional postmortem as it caused less disfigurement and was conducive to the religious practice of burial of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athira Sreenivas
- Department of Pathology, Centre for Foetal and Perinatal Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Teddy Andrews Jaihind Jothikaran
- Department of Social and Health Innovation, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Leslie Lewis
- Department of Pediatrics, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Mary Mathew
- Department of Pathology, Centre for Foetal and Perinatal Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
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Otieno P, Akelo V, Khagayi S, Omore R, Akoth K, Nyanjom M, Ngere S, Ochola K, Maixenchs M, Kone A, Blevins J, Zielinski-Gutierrez E, Barr BAT. Acceptability of minimally invasive autopsy by community members and healthcare workers in Siaya and Kisumu counties, western Kenya, 2017-2018. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001319. [PMID: 37747874 PMCID: PMC10519588 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, nearly six million children under the age of five (<5s) die annually, a substantial proportion of which are due to preventable and treatable diseases. Efforts to reduce child mortality indicators in the most affected regions are often undermined by a lack of accurate cause of death data. To generate timely and more accurate causes of death data for <5s, the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) Network established mortality surveillance in multiple countries using Minimally Invasive Tissue Sampling (MITS) in <5 deaths. Here we present acceptability of MITS by community members and healthcare workers in Siaya and Kisumu counties, western Kenya. From April 2017 to February 2018, we conducted 40 in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions with healthcare workers and community members, before and during CHAMPS implementation. Participants were purposively selected. Field observations to understand traditional death-related practices were also performed. Interviews were transcribed into Nvivo 11.0 for data organization and management. Analysis was guided by the grounded theory approach. Facilitators of acceptability were desire to understand why death occurred, timely performance of MITS procedures, potential for MITS results in improving clinical practice and specific assistance provided to families by the CHAMPS program. However, cultural and religious beliefs highlighted important challenges to acceptability, including CHAMPS teams recruiting after a child's death, rumours and myths, unmet expectations from families, and fear by healthcare workers that some families could use MITS results to sue for negligence. Increasing MITS uptake requires sustained strategies to strengthen the identified facilitators of acceptability and simultaneously address the barriers. MITS acceptance will contribute to better characterization of causes of death and support the development of improved interventions aimed at reducing <5 mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Otieno
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Victor Akelo
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Sammy Khagayi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Richard Omore
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Kelvin Akoth
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Maryanne Nyanjom
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Sara Ngere
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ken Ochola
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Maria Maixenchs
- IS Global, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ahoua Kone
- Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - John Blevins
- Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - Beth A. Tippett Barr
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kisumu, Kenya
- Nyanja Health Research Institute, Salima, Malawi
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Suwalowska H, Kingori P, Parker M. Navigating uncertainties of death: Minimally Invasive Autopsy Technology in global health. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2180065. [PMID: 36853068 PMCID: PMC9988304 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2180065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Global health practitioners and policymakers have become increasingly vocal about the complex challenges of identifying and quantifying the causes of death of the world's poorest people. To address this cause-of-death uncertainty and to minimise longstanding sensitivities about full autopsies, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have been one of the foremost advocates of minimally invasive autopsy technology (MIA). MIA involves using biopsy needles to collect samples from key organs and body fluids; as such, it is touted as potentially more acceptable and less invasive than a complete autopsy, which requires opening the cadaver. In addition, MIA is considered a good means of collecting accurate bodily samples and can provide the crucial information needed to address cause-of-death uncertainty. In this paper, we employ qualitative data to demonstrate that while MIA technology has been introduced as a solution to the enduring cause-of-death uncertainty, the development and deployment of technologies such as these always constitute interventions in complex social and moral worlds; in this respect, they are both the solutions to and the causes of new kinds of uncertainties. We deconstruct the ways in which those new dimensions of uncertainty operate at different levels in the global health context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina Suwalowska
- Ethox Centre, Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Halina Suwalowska Ethox Centre and Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford | OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Patricia Kingori
- Ethox Centre, Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Michael Parker
- Ethox Centre, Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Suwalowska H. The invisible body work of 'last responders' - ethical and social issues faced by the pathologists in the Global South. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:4183-4194. [PMID: 35587285 PMCID: PMC9901416 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2076896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper utilises empirical data to explore the value of 'body work' performed by last responders charged with the duty of dead body management, with a focus on the Global South. While frontline staff work to save lives, little is known about the experiences and roles of those who care for the dead in global health in times of crises and even during normal times. This paper discusses ethical and socio-cultural challenges pathologists face in 'working on the bodies of others' while conducting any form of post-mortem procedures - necessary for ascertaining and recording the causes of death. Identifying and reporting the cause of death have significant public health benefits and provide closure for bereaved families. Despite the foregoing, the pathology field does not attract funding from governments or donors, and it is overlooked compared to other disciplines. Autopsy procedure bears social stigma - as it is associated with body mutilation and therefore disrespecting the dead; certain cultural beliefs or taboos about impurity and death persist, further raising some social and ethical tensions. As a result, the dearth of autopsy procedures contributes to the cause of death uncertainty in global health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina Suwalowska
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Ethox Centre, Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, Halina Suwalowska Old Road Campus, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
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7
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Onyango DO, Akelo V, van der Sande MAB, Ridzon R, Were JA, Agaya JA, Oele EA, Wandiga S, Igunza AK, Young PW, Blau DM, Joseph RH, Yuen CM, Zielinski-Gutierrez E, Tippett-Barr BA. Causes of death in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected children aged under-five years in western Kenya. AIDS 2022; 36:59-68. [PMID: 34586084 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Describe the causes of death among infants and children less than 5 years stratified by HIV status. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of causes of death ascertained through minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) in the Kenya Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance site. METHODS We included decedents aged 28 days to less than 5 years, whose death was reported within 36 h, underwent MITS, and had HIV test results and causes of death determined. MITS specimens were tested using Taqman Array Cards, culture, cytology, histopathology and immunohistochemistry and HIV PCR. A panel evaluated epidemiologic, clinical, verbal autopsy and laboratory data to assign causes of death using ICD-10 guidelines. Causes of death and etiological agents were stratified by HIV status. RESULTS Of 176 included decedents, 14% (n = 25) were HIV-infected, median viral load was 112 205 copies/ml [interquartile range (IQR) = 9349-2 670 143). HIV-disease (96%; n = 24) and malnutrition (23%; n = 34) were the leading underlying causes of death in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected decedents, respectively. Malnutrition was more frequent in the causal chain of HIV-infected (56%; n = 14) than HIV-uninfected decedents (31%; n = 49) (P value = 0.03). Viral pneumonia was twice as common in HIV-infected (50%; n = 9) than HIV-uninfected decedents (22%; n = 7) (P value = 0.04). CONCLUSION Nearly all HIV-infected decedents' underlying cause of death was HIV disease, which was associated with malnutrition. Our findings underscore the need for strengthening early identification and management of HIV-infected children. Prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of malnutrition could be instrumental in improving the survival of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dickens O Onyango
- Kisumu County Department of Health, Kisumu, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Julius Global Health, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Victor Akelo
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kisumu and Nairobi
| | - Marianne A B van der Sande
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Julius Global Health, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Renee Ridzon
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kisumu and Nairobi
| | - Joyce A Were
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Janet A Agaya
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Steve Wandiga
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Peter W Young
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kisumu and Nairobi
| | - Dianna M Blau
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Rachael H Joseph
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kisumu and Nairobi
| | | | | | - Beth A Tippett-Barr
- Division of Global HIV & TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kisumu and Nairobi
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Ritter JM, Seixas JN, Walong E, Dawa J, Onyango C, Pimenta FC, da Gloria Carvalho M, Silva-Flannery L, Jenkinson T, Howard K, Bhatnagar J, Diaz M, Winchell JM, Zaki SR, Chaves SS, Martines RB. Histopathology Is Key to Interpreting Multiplex Molecular Test Results From Postmortem Minimally Invasive Tissue Samples. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:S351-S359. [PMID: 34910182 PMCID: PMC8672755 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) is an alternative to complete autopsy for determining causes of death. Multiplex molecular testing performed on MITS specimens poses challenges of interpretation, due to high sensitivity and indiscriminate detection of pathogenic, commensal, or contaminating microorganisms. METHODS MITS was performed on 20 deceased children with respiratory illness, at 10 timepoints up to 88 hours postmortem. Samples were evaluated by multiplex molecular testing on fresh tissues by TaqMan® Array Card (TAC) and by histopathology, special stains, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and molecular testing (PCR) on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. Results were correlated to determine overall pathologic and etiologic diagnoses and to guide interpretation of TAC results. RESULTS MITS specimens collected up to 3 days postmortem were adequate for histopathologic evaluation and testing. Seven different etiologic agents were detected by TAC in 10 cases. Three cases had etiologic agents detected by FFPE or other methods and not TAC; 2 were agents not present on TAC, and 2 were streptococci that may have been species other than those present on TAC. Result agreement was 43% for TAC and IHC or PCR, and 69% for IHC and PCR. Extraneous TAC results were common, especially when aspiration was present. CONCLUSIONS TAC can be performed on MITS up to 3 days after death with refrigeration and provides a sensitive method for detection of pathogens but requires careful interpretation in the context of clinicoepidemiologic and histopathologic findings. Interpretation of all diagnostic tests in aggregate to establish overall case diagnoses maximizes the utility of TAC in MITS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana M Ritter
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Josilene N Seixas
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Edwin Walong
- College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jeanette Dawa
- College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Washington State University, Global Health Programs (Kenya office), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Clayton Onyango
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fabiana C Pimenta
- Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Maria da Gloria Carvalho
- Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Luciana Silva-Flannery
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tiffany Jenkinson
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Katie Howard
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Julu Bhatnagar
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Maureen Diaz
- Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonas M Winchell
- Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sherif R Zaki
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sandra S Chaves
- Influenza Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya and Influenza Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Roosecelis B Martines
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Dawa J, Walong E, Onyango C, Mathaiya J, Muturi P, Bunei M, Ochieng W, Barake W, Seixas JN, Mayieka L, Ochieng M, Omballa V, Lidechi S, Hunsperger E, Otieno NA, Ritter JM, Widdowson MA, Diaz MH, Winchell JM, Martines RB, Zaki SR, Chaves SS. Effect of Time Since Death on Multipathogen Molecular Test Results of Postmortem Specimens Collected Using Minimally Invasive Tissue Sampling Techniques. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:S360-S367. [PMID: 34910183 PMCID: PMC8672767 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We used postmortem minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) to assess the effect of time since death on molecular detection of pathogens among respiratory illness–associated deaths. Methods Samples were collected from 20 deceased children (aged 1–59 months) hospitalized with respiratory illness from May 2018 through February 2019. Serial lung and/or liver and blood samples were collected using MITS starting soon after death and every 6 hours thereafter for up to 72 hours. Bodies were stored in the mortuary refrigerator for the duration of the study. All specimens were analyzed using customized multipathogen TaqMan® array cards (TACs). Results We identified a median of 3 pathogens in each child’s lung tissue (range, 1–8; n = 20), 3 pathogens in each child’s liver tissue (range, 1–4; n = 5), and 2 pathogens in each child’s blood specimen (range, 0–4; n = 5). Pathogens were not consistently detected across all collection time points; there was no association between postmortem interval and the number of pathogens detected (P = .43) and no change in TAC cycle threshold value over time for pathogens detected in lung tissue. Human ribonucleoprotein values indicated that specimens collected were suitable for testing throughout the study period. Conclusions Results suggest that lung, liver, and blood specimens can be collected using MITS procedures up to 4 days after death in adequately preserved bodies. However, inconsistent pathogen detection in samples needs careful consideration before drawing definitive conclusions on the etiologic causes of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Dawa
- Washington State University, Global Health Programs (Kenya Office), Nairobi, Kenya.,College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edwin Walong
- College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Clayton Onyango
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Mathaiya
- Department of Pathology, Thika Level 5 Hospital, Kiambu County, Kenya
| | - Peter Muturi
- Washington State University, Global Health Programs (Kenya Office), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Milka Bunei
- Washington State University, Global Health Programs (Kenya Office), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Walter Barake
- College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Josilene N Seixas
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lillian Mayieka
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Melvin Ochieng
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Victor Omballa
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shirley Lidechi
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Hunsperger
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nancy A Otieno
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jana M Ritter
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Marc-Alain Widdowson
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya.,Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Maureen H Diaz
- Respiratory Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonas M Winchell
- Respiratory Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Roosecelis B Martines
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sherif R Zaki
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sandra S Chaves
- Influenza Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nairobi, Kenya
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Caballero MT, Grigaites SD, De la Iglesia Niveyro PX, Esperante S, Bianchi AM, Nuño A, Valle S, Afarian G, Ferretti AJP, Baglivo SJ, De Luca J, Zea CM, Caporal P, Labanca MJ, Diamanti A, Alvarez-Paggi D, Bassat Q, Polack FP. Uncovering Causes of Childhood Death Using the Minimally Invasive Autopsy at the Community Level in an Urban Vulnerable Setting of Argentina: A Population-Based Study. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:S435-S441. [PMID: 34910178 PMCID: PMC8672764 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Precise determination of the causal chain that leads to community deaths in children in low- and middle-income countries is critical to estimating all causes of mortality accurately and to planning preemptive strategies for targeted allocation of resources to reduce this scourge. Methods An active surveillance population-based study that combined minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) and verbal autopsies (VA) among children under 5 was conducted in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from September 2018 to December 2020 to define the burden of all causes of community deaths. Results Among 90 cases enrolled (86% of parental acceptance), 81 had complete MITS, 15.6% were neonates, 65.6% were post-neonatal infants, and 18.9% were children aged 1–5 years. Lung infections were the most common cause of death (CoD) in all age groups (57.8%). Among all cases of lung infections, acute bronchiolitis was the most common CoD in infants aged <12 months (23 of 36, 63.9%), and bacterial pneumonia was the most common cause in children aged >12 months (8 of 11, 72.7%). The most common comorbid condition in all age groups was undernutrition in 18 of 90 (20%). It was possible to find an immediate CoD in 78 of 81 subjects where MITS could be done. With this combined approach, we were able to determine that sudden infant death syndrome was overestimated in state reports. Conclusions CoD determination by a combination of MITS and VA provides an accurate estimation of the chain of events that leads to death, emphasizing possible interventions to prevent mortality in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio T Caballero
- Fundacion INFANT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sebastian Diaz Grigaites
- Morgue Judicial del Instituto de Ciencias Forenses Conurbano Sur, Ministerio Público de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Lomas de Zamora, Argentina
| | | | - Sebastian Esperante
- Fundacion INFANT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Gabriela Afarian
- Morgue Judicial del Instituto de Ciencias Forenses Conurbano Sur, Ministerio Público de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Lomas de Zamora, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | - Paula Caporal
- Hospital De Niños Sup. Sor Maria Ludovica, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Maria Jose Labanca
- Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Adriana Diamanti
- Morgue Judicial del Instituto de Ciencias Forenses Conurbano Sur, Ministerio Público de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Lomas de Zamora, Argentina
| | - Damian Alvarez-Paggi
- Fundacion INFANT, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, CP Maputo, Mozambique.,Institución Catalana de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain.,Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid, Spain
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11
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Das MK, Arora NK, Debata P, Chellani H, Rasaily R, Gaikwad H, Meena KR, Kaur G, Malik P, Joshi S, Kumari M. Why parents agree or disagree for minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) to identify causes of death in under-five children and stillbirth in North India: a qualitative study. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:513. [PMID: 34784903 PMCID: PMC8597286 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02993-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Information on exact causes of death and stillbirth are limited in low and middle income countries. Minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) is increasingly practiced in place of autopsy across several settings. A formative research documented the experiences of counselling and consenting for MITS in north India. Methods This exploratory qualitative study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. During the early implementation of MITS, observations of the counselling and consenting process (n = 13) for under-five child death and stillbirths were conducted. In-depth interviews with MITS team members (n = 3) were also conducted. Observation and interview data were transcribed and inductively analysed using thematic content analysis to identify emerging themes and codes. Results The MITS team participated in daily ward rounds for familiarisation with parents/families. Following death declaration the counselling was done in counselling corner of the ward or adjacent corridor. Mostly the counselling was targeted at the father and family members present, using verbal explanation and the consent document in local language. The key concerns raised by parents/family were possible disfigurement, time needed and possible benefits. Most of the parents consulted family members before consent. Among those who consented, desire for next pregnancy, previous pregnancy or neonatal loss and participation of treating senior doctor were the key factors. The negative experience of hospital care, poor comprehension and distance from residence were the factors for consent refusal. Lesser number of parents of deceased children consented for MITS compared to the neonates and stillbirths. Conclusions The initial experiences of obtaining consent for MITS were encouraging. Consent for MITS may be improved with active involvement of the treating doctors and nurses, better bereavement support, private counselling area along with improvement in quality of care and communication during hospitalisation. Special efforts and refinement in counselling are needed to improve consent for MITS in older children. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-021-02993-6. Information about exact cause of death and stillbirth are essential for appropriate care of children and pregnant women. Autopsy assists in establishing exact cause of death, but not preferred by the parents/families. Minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) is a suitable alternate to autopsy for establishing causes of death and stillbirth. A pilot project on MITS was initiated at a tertiary care hospital in north India (New Delhi). An exploratory formative research was conducted to document the experiences of counselling and consenting for MITS. Under this study, observation of the counselling and consenting process for conduct of MITS in under-five children (including neonates) and stillbirths were done. Additionally, in-depth interviews with MITS team members were also conducted. Counselling for MITS was done in one corner of the ward or adjacent corridor and mostly targeted at the father and family members present. Counselling was primarily verbal explanation in local language. The key concerns from parents/family were disfigurement, time needed and possible benefits. Most of the parents consulted family members before decision. Benefit during next pregnancy, past previous pregnancy or neonatal loss and senior treating doctor’s involvement were key factors for consent. Poor quality of care and comprehension were the reasons for refusal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pradeep Debata
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harish Chellani
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Reeta Rasaily
- Division of Division of Reproductive Biology Maternal and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harsha Gaikwad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - K R Meena
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Gurkirat Kaur
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | | | - Shipra Joshi
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | - Mahisha Kumari
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
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12
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Das MK, Arora NK, Kaur G, Malik P, Kumari M, Joshi S, Rasaily R, Chellani H, Gaikwad H, Debata P, Meena KR. Perceptions of family, community and religious leaders and acceptability for minimal invasive tissue sampling to identify the cause of death in under-five deaths and stillbirths in North India: a qualitative study. Reprod Health 2021; 18:168. [PMID: 34348749 PMCID: PMC8336381 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01218-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Minimal invasive tissue sampling (MITS) has emerged as a suitable alternative to complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA) for determination of the cause of death (CoD), due to feasibility and acceptability issues. A formative research was conducted to document the perceptions of parents, community and religious leaders on acceptability of MITS. Methods This qualitative study was conducted at and around the Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi, India. Participants for in-depth interview included the parents who had either child or neonatal death or stillbirth and the key community and religious representatives. The focus group discussions (FGDs) involved community members. Process of obtaining consent for MITS was observed. Data were analyzed inductively manually for emerging themes and codes. Results A total of 104 interviews (parents of deceased children, neonates or stillbirths, n = 93; community members, n = 8 and religious leaders, n = 7), 8 FGDs (n = 72) were conducted and process of obtaining consent for MITS (n = 27) was observed. The participants were positive and expressed willingness to accept MITS. The key determinants for acceptance of MITS were: (1) understanding and willingness to know the cause of death or stillbirth, (2) experience of the healthcare received and trust, (3) the religious and sociocultural norms. Parents and community favored for MITS over CDA when needed, especially where in cases with past stillbirths and child deaths. The experience of treatment, attitude and communication from healthcare providers emerged as important for consent. The decision making process was collective involving the elders and family. No religious leader was against the procedure, as both, the respect for the deceased and need for medical care were satisfied. Conclusions Largely, MITS appeared to be acceptable for identifying the causes of child deaths and stillbirths, if the parents and family are counseled appropriately considering the sociocultural and religious aspects. They perceived the quality of care, attitude and communication by the healthcare providers as critical factors for acceptance of MITS. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12978-021-01218-4. India tops the chart of childhood deaths and stillbirths globally. The causes of many childhood deaths and stillbirths remain unknown or ill-defined in India. For planning the health policies, program and clinical practices, the cause of death (CoD) and stillbirth are primarily determined by verbal autopsy (VA) method, which has several inherent limitations. The acceptance and implementation of complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA) or full autopsy for CoD determination is limited. Minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) is a suitable alternative to full autopsy for CoD determination. MITS has been found to be acceptable and being implemented in some low and middle income countries. Considering the multi-religion and sociocultural contexts of India, an understanding about the perceptions, practices, acceptance and barriers among the parents, community members and religious leaders regarding MITS was necessary for designing appropriate communication strategies and materials for consent. A qualitative study was undertaken in New Delhi, India using in-depth interviews with the parents of deceased children and stillbirths, community leaders, community health workers and religious leaders and focus group discussions with the community members and observation of obtaining consent for MITS. The parents and community members were positive about MITS and expressed willingness to accept it over full autopsy to know the CoD and stillbirths. The factors like past stillbirths and child deaths, experience of the healthcare received and trust, the religious and sociocultural norms emerged as important determinants for acceptance of MITS. The religious leaders were also positive about MITS if needed for treatment and benefit of the family.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gurkirat Kaur
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | | | - Mahisha Kumari
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | - Shipra Joshi
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | - Reeta Rasaily
- Division of Reproductive Biology Maternal and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harish Chellani
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harsha Gaikwad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Pradeep Debata
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - K R Meena
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
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13
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Möbius D, Fitzek A, Hammer N, Heinemann A, Ron A, Schädler J, Zwirner J, Ondruschka B. Ultrasound in legal medicine-a missed opportunity or simply too late? A narrative review of ultrasonic applications in forensic contexts. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:2363-2383. [PMID: 34292383 PMCID: PMC8295453 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02661-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Conventional autopsies remain the gold standard of postmortem healthcare quality assurance and help gathering extended knowledge on diseases. In answer to constantly declining autopsy rates non- or minimally invasive autopsy methods were introduced. Ultrasound is a well-established tool for imaging commonly used in clinical practice. This narrative review aims to summarize the current literature regarding the feasibility and validity of ultrasound in a forensic context. Material and methods A PubMed database search was carried out. Abstracts were scanned for pre-defined ex- and inclusion criteria, followed by a snowball search procedure applied to the primarily included articles. Results Forty-five publications met our inclusion criteria. The selected articles concern the feasibility of ultrasound in pre- or postmortem settings, forensic age estimation, and minimally invasive approaches. For imaging, ultrasound was deemed a reliable tool for the examination of epiphyses und superficial wounds, with limitations regarding internal organs and image quality due to postmortem changes. Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive approaches yielded higher success rates for adequate tissue sampling. Many investigations were carried out in low- and middle-income countries focusing on infectious diseases. Conclusion Ultrasound seems a promising but underutilized imaging tool in legal medicine to date. Promising approaches on its feasibility have been conducted. Especially for minimally invasive methods, ultrasound offered significant improvements on qualified biopsy sampling and thus appropriate diagnostics. Moreover, ultrasonic evaluation of epiphyses for age estimation offered valuable results. Nevertheless, further assessment of ultrasonic feasibility in forensic contexts is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Möbius
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Antonia Fitzek
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Niels Hammer
- Institute of Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Fraunhofer IWU, Dresden, Germany
| | - Axel Heinemann
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Ron
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Schädler
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johann Zwirner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Benjamin Ondruschka
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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14
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Islam MS, Al-Masud A, Maixenchs M, Cossa S, Guilaze R, Diarra K, Fofana I, Hussain F, Blevins J, Kone A, Arifeen SE, Mandomando I, Bassat Q, Sage EO, Gurley ES, Munguambe K. Rumor surveillance in support of minimally invasive tissue sampling for diagnosing the cause of child death in low-income countries: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244552. [PMID: 33507902 PMCID: PMC7842994 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In low-and middle-income countries, determining the cause of death of any given individual is impaired by poor access to healthcare systems, resource-poor diagnostic facilities, and limited acceptance of complete diagnostic autopsies. Minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS), an innovative post-mortem procedure based on obtaining tissue specimens using fine needle biopsies suitable for laboratory analysis, is an acceptable proxy of the complete diagnostic autopsy, and thus could reduce the uncertainty of cause of death. This study describes rumor surveillance activities developed and implemented in Bangladesh, Mali, and Mozambique to identify, track and understand rumors about the MITS procedure. Our surveillance activities included observations and interviews with stakeholders to understand how rumors are developed and spread and to anticipate rumors in the program areas. We also engaged young volunteers, local stakeholders, community leaders, and study staff to report rumors being spread in the community after MITS launch. Through community meetings, we also managed and responded to rumors. When a rumor was reported, the field team purposively conducted interviews and group discussions to track, verify and understand the rumor. From July 2016 through April 2018, the surveillance identified several rumors including suspicions of organs being harvested or transplanted; MITS having been performed on a living child, and concerns related to disrespecting the body and mistrust related to the study purpose. These rumors, concerns, and cues of mistrust were passed by word of mouth. We managed the rumors by modifying the consent protocol and giving additional information and support to the bereaved family and to the community members. Rumor surveillance was critical for anticipating and readily identifying rumors and managing them. Setting up rumor surveillance by engaging community residents, stakeholders, and volunteers could be an essential part of any public health program where there is a need to identify and react in real-time to public concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Saiful Islam
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Abdullah Al-Masud
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Maria Maixenchs
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Saquina Cossa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rui Guilaze
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | - Issa Fofana
- Center for Vaccine Development, Bamako, Mali
| | - Faruqe Hussain
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - John Blevins
- Emory Global Health Institute, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Ahoua Kone
- Emory Global Health Institute, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Shams El Arifeen
- Maternal and Child Health Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Inácio Mandomando
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (University of Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Emily S. Gurley
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Epidemiology, John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Khátia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane Universities, Maputo, Mozambique
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15
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Mawalla WF. The contribution of autopsy in COVID-19 pandemic: Missed opportunity in Sub-Saharan Africa. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL: REPORTS 2020; 2:100136. [PMID: 38620603 PMCID: PMC7462550 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2020.100136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
'Autopsy studies are for the living and not the dead!' This statement underlines the central role of autopsy studies in refining and informing the medical and forensic science body of knowledge. Significant outbreaks, like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, have continued to reveal the capacity gap in autopsy practice, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite the importance of autopsy in investigating previous infectious disease outbreaks, health systems in SSA still assign a lesser priority to autopsy and forensic practice. Some of the critical factors hindering routine clinical autopsy are the lack of experts and facilities, and a health system that focuses less on postmortem examination. Societal traditions and cultural beliefs against the practice of autopsy and manipulation of the dead body are also significant barriers. Nevertheless, strengthening the role of autopsy in clinical practice may help clinicians to more quickly address clinical questions associated with highly infectious outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F Mawalla
- Department of Pathology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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16
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Blum LS, Karia FP, Msoka EF, Oshosen Mwanga M, Crump JA, Rubach MP. An In-Depth Examination of Reasons for Autopsy Acceptance and Refusal in Northern Tanzania. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 103:1670-1680. [PMID: 32748779 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncertainty about the causes of death (COD) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) has been recognized as a constraint to global health and development. Although complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA) is the best way to assess COD, it is uncommon in LMICs because of low investment priority and assumptions about poor acceptability. Social science research was conducted from May 2016 through July 2017 to examine issues related to acceptability of CDAs in northern Tanzania where autopsy was being offered in two referral hospitals to assess COD associated with febrile illness. Initial formative research entailed 29 key informant interviews, seven observations of burial practices, and four group discussions. In-depth interviews were conducted with families of deceased, including nine families that accepted and 11 families that refused CDA. The formative research identified concepts related to death, understandings of CDA, and cultural practices and psychosocial considerations associated with death that informed the authorization process. Most families who accepted CDA cited the desire to get clarity regarding the COD as a primary reason for acceptance. An unexpected finding was that CDA is perceived as a means to determine witchcraft involvement, a common explanation for COD and a common reason for postmortem acceptance. Death resulting from chronic illness or conditions presumed to have a clinical diagnosis were reasons for CDA to be viewed as unnecessary. The timing, way families were approached, and content of information shared during authorization influenced acceptance and refusal of CDA. Findings show that CDAs can be acceptable in settings where traditional disease models prevail.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francis P Karia
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania.,Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | | | - John A Crump
- Centre for International Health, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.,Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.,Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Matthew P Rubach
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.,Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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Lewis C, Hutchinson JC, Riddington M, Hill M, Arthurs OJ, Fisher J, Wade A, Doré CJ, Chitty LS, Sebire NJ. Minimally invasive autopsy for fetuses and children based on a combination of post-mortem MRI and endoscopic examination: a feasibility study. Health Technol Assess 2020; 23:1-104. [PMID: 31461397 DOI: 10.3310/hta23460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Less invasive perinatal and paediatric autopsy methods, such as imaging alongside targeted endoscopy and organ biopsy, may address declining consent rates for traditional autopsy, but their acceptability and accuracy are not known. OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to provide empirical data on the acceptability and likely uptake for different types of autopsy among key stakeholders (study 1); and to analyse existing autopsy data sources to provide estimates of the potential efficacy of less invasive autopsy (LIA) and its projected utility in clinical practice (study 2). REVIEW METHODS Study 1: this was a mixed-methods study. Parents were involved in research design and interpretation of findings. Substudy 1: a cross-sectional survey of 859 parents who had experienced miscarriage, termination of pregnancy for fetal anomaly, stillbirth, infant or child death, and interviews with 20 responders. Substudy 2: interviews with 25 health professionals and four coroners. Substudy 3: interviews with 16 religious leaders and eight focus groups, with 76 members of the Muslim and Jewish community. Study 2: a retrospective analysis of national data in addition to detailed information from an existing in-house autopsy database of > 5000 clinical cases that had undergone standard autopsy to determine the proportion of cases by clinical indication group for which tissue sampling of specific internal organs significantly contributed to the diagnosis. RESULTS Substudy 1: 91% of participants indicated that they would consent to some form of LIA, 54% would consent to standard autopsy, 74% to minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) and 77% to non-invasive autopsy (NIA). Substudy 2: participants viewed LIA as a positive development, but had concerns around the limitations of the technology and de-skilling the workforce. Cost implications, skills and training requirements were identified as implementation challenges. Substudy 3: religious leaders agreed that NIA was religiously permissible, but MIA was considered less acceptable. Community members indicated that they might consent to NIA if the body could be returned for burial within 24 hours. Study 2: in 5-10% of cases of sudden unexplained death in childhood and sudden unexplained death in infants, the final cause of death is determined by routine histological sampling of macroscopically normal organs, predominantly the heart and lungs, and in this group routine histological sampling therefore remains an important aspect of investigation. In contrast, routine histological examination of macroscopically normal organs rarely (< 0.5%) provides the cause of death in fetal cases, making LIA and NIA approaches potentially highly applicable. LIMITATIONS A key limitation of the empirical research is that it is hypothetical. Further research is required to determine actual uptake. Furthermore, because of the retrospective nature of the autopsy data set, findings regarding the likely contribution of organ sampling to final diagnosis are based on extrapolation of findings from historical autopsies, and prospective data collection is required to validate the conclusions. CONCLUSIONS LIA is viable and acceptable (except for unexplained deaths), and likely to increase uptake. Further health economic, performance and implementation studies are required to determine the optimal service configuration required to offer this as routine clinical care. FUNDING The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Lewis
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - John C Hutchinson
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Child Health/University College London, London, UK
| | - Megan Riddington
- Department of Psychological Services, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Melissa Hill
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Owen J Arthurs
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Angie Wade
- Institute of Child Health; Population, Policy and Practice, University College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline J Doré
- Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lyn S Chitty
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Genetics and Genomic Medicine, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Neil J Sebire
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Child Health/University College London, London, UK
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Das MK, Arora NK, Rasaily R, Kaur G, Malik P, Kumari M, Joshi S, Chellani H, Gaekwad H, Debata P, Meena KR. Perceptions of the healthcare providers regarding acceptability and conduct of minimal invasive tissue sampling (MITS) to identify the cause of death in under-five deaths and stillbirths in North India: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:833. [PMID: 32887603 PMCID: PMC7472696 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05693-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background India contributes the highest share of under-five and neonatal deaths and stillbirths globally. Diagnostic autopsy, although useful for cause of death identification, have limited acceptance. Minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) is an alternative to autopsy for identification of the cause of death (CoD). A formative research linked to pilot MITS implementation was conducted to document the perceptions and attitudes of the healthcare professionals and the barriers for implementation. Methods This exploratory qualitative study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi, India included the hospital staffs. In-depth interviews were conducted with the doctors, nurses and support staffs from pediatrics, neonatology, obstetrics and forensic medicine departments. Inductive data analysis was done to identify the emerging themes and codes. Results A total of 26 interviews (doctors, n = 10; nurses, n = 9 and support staffs, n = 7) were conducted. Almost all professional and support staffs were positive about the MITS and its advantage for CoD identification including co-existing and underlying illnesses. Some opined conduct of MITS for the cases without clear diagnosis. All participants perceived that MITS would be acceptable for parents due to the non-disfigurement and preferred by those who had unexplained child deaths or stillbirths in past. The key factors for MITS acceptance were appropriate communication, trust building, involvement of senior doctors, and engagement of the counselor prior to deaths and training of the personnel. For implementation and sustenance of MITS, involvement of the institute authority and government stakeholders would be essential. Conclusions MITS was acceptable for the doctors, nurses and support staffs and critical for better identification of the causes of death and stillbirths. The key facilitating factors and challenges for implementing MITS at the hospital in Indian context were identified. It emphasized on appropriate skill building, counseling, system organization and buy-in from institution and health authorities for sustenance of MITS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Reeta Rasaily
- Division of Reproductive Biology Maternal and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Gurkirat Kaur
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | | | - Mahisha Kumari
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | - Shipra Joshi
- The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | - Harish Chellani
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harsha Gaekwad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Pradeep Debata
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - K R Meena
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
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Hutchinson JC, Shelmerdine SC, Lewis C, Parmenter J, Simcock IC, Ward L, Ashworth MT, Chitty LS, Arthurs OJ, Sebire NJ. Minimally invasive perinatal and pediatric autopsy with laparoscopically assisted tissue sampling: feasibility and experience of the MinImAL procedure. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2019; 54:661-669. [PMID: 30620444 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Less invasive autopsy techniques in cases of fetal or infant death have good acceptability among parents, but the published sampling adequacy in needle biopsy studies is generally poor. Minimally Invasive Autopsy with Laparoscopically assisted sampling (MinImAL) has the potential to increase the diagnostic yield of less invasive autopsy by improving the quality and quantity of tissue samples obtained, whilst permitting visualization, extraction and examination of internal organs through a small incision. The aim of this study was to present the findings of our experience with the MinImAL procedure in cases of fetal, neonatal and pediatric death. METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of 103 prospectively recruited unselected cases of fetal, neonatal or pediatric death that underwent the MinImAL procedure at a tertiary referral center over a 5-year period. Following preprocedure 1.5-T whole-body postmortem magnetic resonance imaging, MinImAL autopsy was performed. Procedure duration, sampling adequacy and cause of death were assessed. Chi-square analysis was used to compare the 'unexplained' rate of intrauterine deaths in the cohort with that in a previously published cohort of > 1000 cases of intrauterine death examined by standard autopsy. RESULTS MinImAL autopsy was performed successfully in 97.8% (91/93) of the cases undergoing a complete procedure. There was a satisfactory rate of adequate histological sampling in most major organs; heart (100%, 91 cases), lung (100%, 91 cases), kidney (100%, 91 cases), liver (96.7%, 88 cases), spleen (94.5%, 86 cases), adrenal glands (89.0%, 81 cases), pancreas (82.4%, 75 cases) and thymus (56.0%, 51 cases). Procedure duration was similar to that of standard autopsy in a previously published cohort of intrauterine deaths. The unexplained rate in stillbirths and intrauterine fetal deaths that underwent MinImAL autopsy was not significantly different from that following standard autopsy. CONCLUSIONS The MinImAL procedure provides good histological yield from major organs with minimal cosmetic damage and can be learned by an autopsy practitioner. The MinImAL procedure is an appropriate minimally invasive alternative for the investigation of perinatal and pediatric deaths in which consent to full autopsy is withheld, and may have applications in both high- and low/middle-income settings. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Hutchinson
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - S C Shelmerdine
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - C Lewis
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - J Parmenter
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - I C Simcock
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - L Ward
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - M T Ashworth
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - L S Chitty
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - O J Arthurs
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - N J Sebire
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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20
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Salzberg NT, Sivalogan K, Bassat Q, Taylor AW, Adedini S, El Arifeen S, Assefa N, Blau DM, Chawana R, Cain CJ, Cain KP, Caneer JP, Garel M, Gurley ES, Kaiser R, Kotloff KL, Mandomando I, Morris T, Nyamthimba Onyango P, Sazzad HMS, Scott JAG, Seale AC, Sitoe A, Sow SO, Tapia MD, Whitney EA, Worrell MC, Zielinski-Gutierrez E, Madhi SA, Raghunathan PL, Koplan JP, Breiman RF. Mortality Surveillance Methods to Identify and Characterize Deaths in Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance Network Sites. Clin Infect Dis 2019; 69:S262-S273. [PMID: 31598664 PMCID: PMC6785672 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite reductions over the past 2 decades, childhood mortality remains high in low- and middle-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In these settings, children often die at home, without contact with the health system, and are neither accounted for, nor attributed with a cause of death. In addition, when cause of death determinations occur, they often use nonspecific methods. Consequently, findings from models currently utilized to build national and global estimates of causes of death are associated with substantial uncertainty. Higher-quality data would enable stakeholders to effectively target interventions for the leading causes of childhood mortality, a critical component to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by eliminating preventable perinatal and childhood deaths. The Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) Network tracks the causes of under-5 mortality and stillbirths at sites in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia through comprehensive mortality surveillance, utilizing minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS), postmortem laboratory and pathology testing, verbal autopsy, and clinical and demographic data. CHAMPS sites have established facility- and community-based mortality notification systems, which aim to report potentially eligible deaths, defined as under-5 deaths and stillbirths within a defined catchment area, within 24-36 hours so that MITS can be conducted quickly after death. Where MITS has been conducted, a final cause of death is determined by an expert review panel. Data on cause of death will be provided to local, national, and global stakeholders to inform strategies to reduce perinatal and childhood mortality in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navit T Salzberg
- Emory Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Epidemiologia y Salud, Spain
| | - Allan W Taylor
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sunday Adedini
- Medical Research Council, Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation: Vaccine Preventable Diseases, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Nega Assefa
- College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Dianna M Blau
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Richard Chawana
- Medical Research Council, Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation: Vaccine Preventable Diseases, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Kevin P Cain
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - J Patrick Caneer
- Public Health Informatics Institute, The Task Force for Global Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mischka Garel
- Emory Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Emily S Gurley
- icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Reinhard Kaiser
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Karen L Kotloff
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Inacio Mandomando
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Instituto Nacional de Saude, Ministerio de Saude, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Timothy Morris
- Public Health Informatics Institute, The Task Force for Global Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Hossain M S Sazzad
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- PEI, Infectious Disease Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - J Anthony G Scott
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna C Seale
- College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Antonio Sitoe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Samba O Sow
- Centre pour le Développement des Vaccins (CVD-Mali), Ministère de la Santé, Bamako, Mali
| | - Milagritos D Tapia
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ellen A Whitney
- International Association of National Public Health Institutes, US Office at Emory Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mary Claire Worrell
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Shabir A Madhi
- Medical Research Council, Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation: Vaccine Preventable Diseases, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Pratima L Raghunathan
- Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jeffrey P Koplan
- Emory Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Robert F Breiman
- Emory Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Uneke CJ, Uro-Chukwu HC, Chukwu OE. Validation of verbal autopsy methods for assessment of child mortality in sub-Saharan Africa and the policy implication: a rapid review. Pan Afr Med J 2019; 33:318. [PMID: 31692720 PMCID: PMC6815483 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2019.33.318.16405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Reliable data on the cause of child death is the cornerstone for evidence-informed health policy making towards improving child health outcomes. Unfortunately, accurate data on cause of death is essentially lacking in most countries of sub-Saharan Africa due to the widespread absence of functional Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) systems. To address this problem, verbal autopsy (VA) has gained prominence as a strategy for obtaining Cause of Death (COD) information in populations where CRVS are absent. This study reviewed publications that investigated the validation of VA methods for assessment of COD. A MEDLINE PubMed search was undertaken in June 2018 for studies published in English that investigated the validation of VA methods in sub-Saharan Africa from 1990-2018. Of the 17 studies identified, 9 fulfilled the study inclusion criteria from which additional five relevant studies were found by reviewing their references. The result showed that Physician-Certified Verbal Autopsy (PCVA) was the most widely used VA method. Validation studies comparing PCVA to hospital records, expert algorithm and InterVA demonstrated mixed and highly varied outcomes. The accuracy and reliability of the VA methods depended on level of healthcare the respondents have access to and the knowledge of the physicians on the local disease aetiology and epidemiology. As the countries in sub-Saharan Africa continue to battle with dysfunctional CRVS system, VA will remain the only viable option for the supply of child mortality data necessary for policy making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chigozie Jesse Uneke
- African Institute for Health Policy and Health Systems, Ebonyi State University, PMB 053 Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | | | - Onyedikachi Echefu Chukwu
- African Institute for Health Policy and Health Systems, Ebonyi State University, PMB 053 Abakaliki, Nigeria
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22
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Factors Influencing Acceptance of Post-Mortem Examination of Children at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. Ann Glob Health 2019; 85. [PMID: 31276331 PMCID: PMC6634467 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.2504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical autopsies are not often part of routine care, despite their role in clarifying cause of death. In fact, autopsy rates across the world have declined and are especially low in sub-Saharan Africa. OBJECTIVES We set out to identify factors associated with acceptance of pediatric autopsies among parents of deceased children less than five years old, and examined local preferences for minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) procedures during post-mortem (PM) examinations. METHODS From December 2016 to September 2017, we contacted 113 parents/next of kin who had been previously approached to consent to a PM examination of their deceased child as part of a Kenyan study on cause of death. Interviews occurred up to three years after the death of their child. FINDINGS Seventy-three percent (83/113) of eligible study participants were enrolled, of whom 62/83 (75%) had previously consented to PM examination of their child. Those who previously consented to PM had higher levels of education, were more likely employed, and had more knowledge about certain aspects of autopsies than non-consenters. The majority (97%) of PM consenters did so because they wanted to know the cause of death of their child, and up to a third believed autopsy studies helped advance medical knowledge. Reasons for non-consent to PM examination included: parents felt there was no need for further examination (29%) or they were satisfied with the clinical diagnosis (24%). Overall, only 40% of study participants would have preferred MITS procedures to conventional autopsy. However, 81% of autopsy non-consenters would have accepted PM examination if it only involved MITS techniques. CONCLUSION There is potential to increase autopsy rates by strengthening reasons for acceptance and addressing modifiable reasons for refusals. Although MITS procedures have the potential to improve autopsy acceptance rates, they were not significantly preferred over conventional autopsies in our study population.
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Das MK, Arora NK, Rasaily R, Chellani H, Gaikwad H, Banke K. Exploring family, community and healthcare provider perceptions and acceptability for minimal invasive tissue sampling to identify the cause of death in under-five deaths and stillbirths in North India: a qualitative study protocol. Reprod Health 2019; 16:3. [PMID: 30626421 PMCID: PMC6327493 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-019-0665-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Around 5.4 million under-five deaths occur globally annually. Over 2.5 million neonatal deaths and an equivalent stillbirths also occur annually worldwide. India is largest contributor to these under-five deaths and stillbirths. To meet the National Health Policy goals aligned with sustainable development targets, adoption of specific strategy and interventions based on exact causes of death and stillbirths are essential. The current cause of death (CoD) labelling process is verbal autopsy based and subject to related limitations. In view of rare diagnostic autopsies, the minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) has emerged as a suitable alternate with comparable efficiency to determine CoD. But there is no experience on perception and acceptance for MITS in north Indian context. This formative research is exploring the perceptions and view of families, communities and healthcare providers regarding MITS to determine the acceptability and feasibility. METHODS The cross-sectional study adopts exploratory qualitative research design. The study will be conducted in New Delhi linked to deaths and stillbirths occurring at a tertiary care hospital. The data from multiple stakeholders will be collected through 53-60 key-informant in-depth interviews (IDIs), 8 focus group discussions (FGDs) and 8-10 death or stillbirth event observations. The IDIs will be done with the parents, family members, community representatives, religious priests, burial site representatives and different health care providers. The FGDs will be conducted with the fathers, mothers, and elderly family members in the community. The data collection will focus on death, post-death rituals, religious practices, willingness to know CoD, acceptability of MITS and decision making dynamics. Data will be analysed following free listing, open coding, selective coding and theme identification. Subsequently 8-10 parents will be approached for consent to conduct MITS using the communication package to be developed using the findings. DISCUSSION The study will provide in-depth understanding of the cultural, social, religious practices related to child death and stillbirth and factors that potentially determine acceptance of MITS. The findings will guide development of communication and counselling package and strategies for obtaining consent for MITS. The pilot experience on obtaining consent for MITS will inform suitable refinement and future practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoja Kumar Das
- The INCLEN Trust International, F1/5, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase 1, New Delhi, 110020, India.
| | - Narendra Kumar Arora
- The INCLEN Trust International, F1/5, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase 1, New Delhi, 110020, India
| | - Reeta Rasaily
- Division of Reproductive Biology and Maternal Health, Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harish Chellani
- Department of Pediatrics, Safdarjung Hospital & Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Harsha Gaikwad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Safdarjung Hospital & Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Kathryn Banke
- Global Health, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
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Fernandes F, Castillo P, Bassat Q, Quintó L, Hurtado JC, Martínez MJ, Lovane L, Jordao D, Bene R, Nhampossa T, Ritchie PS, Bandeira S, Sambo C, Chicamba V, Mocumbi S, Jaze Z, Mabota F, Ismail MR, Lorenzoni C, Sanz A, Rakislova N, Marimon L, Cossa A, Mandomando I, Vila J, Maixenchs M, Munguambe K, Macete E, Alonso P, Menéndez C, Ordi J, Carrilho C. Contribution of the clinical information to the accuracy of the minimally invasive and the complete diagnostic autopsy. Hum Pathol 2018; 85:184-193. [PMID: 30496801 PMCID: PMC6478426 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2018.10.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Although autopsy diagnosis includes routinely, a thorough evaluation of all available pathological results and also of any available clinical data, the contribution of this clinical information to the diagnostic yield of the autopsy has not been analyzed. We aimed to determine to which degree the use of clinical data improves the diagnostic accuracy of the complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA) and the minimally invasive autopsy (MIA), a simplified pathological postmortem procedure designed for low-income sites. A total of 264 coupled MIA and CDA procedures (112 adults, 57 maternal deaths, 54 children, and 41 neonates) were performed at the Maputo Hospital, Mozambique. We compared the diagnoses obtained by the MIA blind to clinical data (MIAb), the MIA adding the clinical information (MIAc), and the CDA blind to clinical information (CDAb), with the results of the gold standard, the CDA with clinical data, by comparing the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes and the main diagnostic classes obtained with each evaluation strategy (MIAb, MIAc, CDAb, CDAc). The clinical data increased diagnostic coincidence to the MIAb with the gold standard in 30 (11%) of 264 cases and modified the CDAb diagnosis in 20 (8%) of 264 cases. The increase in concordance between MIAb and MIAc with the gold standard was significant in neonatal deaths (κ increasing from 0.404 to 0.618, P = .0271), adult deaths (κ increasing from 0.732 to 0.813, P = .0221), and maternal deaths (κ increasing from 0.485 to 0.836, 0.;P < .0001). In conclusion, the use of clinical information increases the precision of MIA and CDA and may strengthen the performance of the MIA in resource-limited settings. The addition of clinical data increases the diagnostic accuracy of the minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) and complete diagnostic autopsy in 12% and 8% of the cases, respectively. The increase in concordance from MIA blind to clinical data to MIA enhanced with clinical data was significant in neonatal, adult, and maternal deaths and was also evident in children, although it did not reach statistical significance. The use of clinical data may improve the diagnostic precision of the MIA in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Fernandes
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique; Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Paola Castillo
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique; ICREA, Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain; Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Universitat de Barcelona, 8950 Barcelona, Spain; Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Llorenç Quintó
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Hurtado
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel J Martínez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lucilia Lovane
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Dercio Jordao
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rosa Bene
- Department of Medicine, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | | | - Sónia Bandeira
- Department of Pediatrics, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Calvino Sambo
- Department of Pediatrics, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Valeria Chicamba
- Department of Pediatrics, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Sibone Mocumbi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Zara Jaze
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Flora Mabota
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Mamudo R Ismail
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique; Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Cesaltina Lorenzoni
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique; Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Ariadna Sanz
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalia Rakislova
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lorena Marimon
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anelsio Cossa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | - Jordi Vila
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Maixenchs
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Khátia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Eusebio Macete
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Pedro Alonso
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Clara Menéndez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique; Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaume Ordi
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Carla Carrilho
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique; Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, 1100 Maputo, Mozambique
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Ben Taher M, Pearson J, Cohen M, Offiah AC. Acceptability of post-mortem imaging among Muslim and non-Muslim communities. Br J Radiol 2018; 91:20180295. [PMID: 30059236 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20180295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: People's views regarding autopsy vary according to their cultural and religious beliefs. This paper aims to determine the opinions towards this procedure among Muslims resident in Libya and Muslims and non-Muslims resident in the UK. Our long-term goal is to improve autopsy rates; whether conventional or through the use of post-mortem imaging. METHODS: 400 questionnaires were distributed to the three communities, interrogating belief about post-mortem investigations. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric statistics were used to analyse the data. RESULTS: Of the 400 distributed questionnaires, there was a high return rate of 320 (80%). All groups felt that children should be buried sooner than adults(p < 0.001), but 77% of Libyan Muslims thought that children should be buried within 12 h of death compared to 16% of UK Muslims and only 7% of UK non-Muslims (p < 0.001). More non-Muslims were unconcerned about a negative impact of traditional autopsy on the dignity of the corpse than Muslims (p < 0.001) and more Muslims responded that autopsy has a negative emotional effect on the family (p < 0.001). Type of death altered what sort of investigations were desired. In the case of homicide, Libyan Muslims were less likely to prefer CT (p < 0.001) or MRI (p = 0.001). Sex had no effect on the results of the survey. CONCLUSION: Post-mortem imaging is acceptable to both Muslims and non-Muslims in Libya and the UK, but Muslims have a significant preference for post-mortem imaging compared to autopsy, except in homicidal cases. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: (1) The ability of post-mortem imaging to preserve the dignity of the corpse is independent of religion, however, significantly more Muslims feel that autopsy has a negative emotional effect on the family of the deceased. (2) A significant majority of Muslims in Libya prefer to bury children within 12 h of death, while a delay of up to a week is acceptable in UK. (3) Muslims resident in UK have an attitude closer to that of the indigenous (non-Muslim) population and therefore, educational programmes may be successful in changing attitudes of Muslims in Libya and other predominantly Muslim countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ben Taher
- 1 Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK
| | - Jean Pearson
- 2 Corporate Information and Computing Services, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK
| | - Marta Cohen
- 3 Department of Pathology, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Western Bank , Sheffield , UK
| | - Amaka C Offiah
- 1 Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield , Sheffield , UK.,4 Department of Radiology, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Western Bank , Sheffield , UK
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Maixenchs M, Anselmo R, Sanz A, Castillo P, Macete E, Carrilho C, Ordi J, Menendez C, Bassat Q, Munguambe K. Healthcare providers' views and perceptions on post-mortem procedures for cause of death determination in Southern Mozambique. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200058. [PMID: 29979720 PMCID: PMC6034841 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) is being investigated as an alternative to the complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA), gold standard for CoD determination, in settings where CDA is unfeasible and/or unacceptable. We aimed to explore healthcare providers' views and perceptions on theoretical and factual acceptability of the CDA and the MIA. METHODS A qualitative study, combining ethnographic and grounded-theory approaches, was conducted within a project aiming to validate the MIA tool against the CDA for CoD investigation. We present data on in-depth and semi-structured interviews of 33 healthcare providers operating within the formal and informal health services in Southern Mozambique. MIA perception was analysed through the theory of diffusion of innovations. RESULTS All participants considered CDA useful for CoD determination. CDA was perceived reliable, but the unpleasant nature of the procedure and its associated infection risk were the main perceived disadvantages. Participants considered the MIA simple, easy and quick to perform; likely to meet families' expectations to know the CoD, and able to provide evidence-based knowledge for disease management. Concerns were raised on its reliability compared to the CDA. Family's emotional status and accessibility to decision-makers were mentioned as principal barriers for MIA performance. The main jeopardizing factors for MIA implementation were the shortage of required resources and the significant proportion of people dying at home. Key facilitators for MIA acceptance included the need for the support from community and religious leaders, provision of clear information to the community, and accompaniment to bereaved families. CONCLUSIONS Healthcare providers consider the MIAs potentially more acceptable and feasible than CDAs in places where the latter have shown significant implementation challenges. A clear understanding of healthcare provider's perceived barriers and facilitators for conducting post-mortem procedures in general, and MIAs in particular, will shed light on their future field implementation for more robust mortality surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Maixenchs
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rui Anselmo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Ariadna Sanz
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paola Castillo
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eusebio Macete
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- National Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carla Carrilho
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jaume Ordi
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Menendez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (University of Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Khatia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
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Lewis C, Hill M, Arthurs OJ, Hutchinson C, Chitty LS, Sebire NJ. Factors affecting uptake of postmortem examination in the prenatal, perinatal and paediatric setting. BJOG 2017; 125:172-181. [PMID: 28190300 PMCID: PMC5763339 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Postmortem examination is the single most useful investigation in providing information to parents about why their baby or child died. Despite this, uptake remains well below the recommended 75%. Objective To address the question ‘what are the barriers and motivators to perinatal, prenatal and paediatric PM examination?’ Search strategy Key databases including Pubmed and CINAHL; Cochrane library, websites of relevant patient organisations, hand search of key journals, first and last authors and references. Selection criteria Peer‐reviewed qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods research examining factors affecting uptake or decline of perinatal or paediatric postmortem examination. Data collection and analysis Narrative synthesis; findings were compared across studies to examine interrelations. Main results Seven major themes describing barriers to postmortem uptake were identified: dislike of invasiveness, practicalities of the procedure, organ retention issues, protective parenting, communication and understanding, religion and culture and professional or organisational barriers. Six major themes related to factors which facilitated parental consent were identified: desire for information, contributing to research, coping and well‐being, respectful care, minimally invasive options, and policy and practice. There were a number of themes in the literature that reflected best practice. Conclusion Findings highlight the need for better health professional education and the fact some concerns may be mitigated if less invasive methods of postmortem were routinely available. New consent packages and codes of practice may have a positive impact on perception of examination after death. The landscape is changing; further research is necessary to assess the impact on postmortem uptake rates. Tweetable abstract Systematic review to explore the barriers and motivators to perinatal, prenatal and paediatric postmortem examination. Systematic review to explore the barriers and motivators to perinatal, prenatal and paediatric postmortem examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lewis
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - M Hill
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - O J Arthurs
- UCL Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - C Hutchinson
- UCL Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - L S Chitty
- North East Thames Regional Genetics Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - N J Sebire
- UCL Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Das A, Chowdhury R. Searching cause of death through different autopsy methods: A new initiative. J Family Med Prim Care 2017; 6:191-195. [PMID: 29302514 PMCID: PMC5749053 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_194_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A lawful disposal of human dead body is only possible after establishment of proper and valid cause of death. If the cause is obscure, autopsy is the only mean of search. Inadequacy and unavailability of health care facility often makes this situation more complicated in developing countries where many deaths remain unexplained and proper mortality statistics is missing, especially for infant and children. Tissue sampling by needle autopsy or use of various imaging technique in virtopsy have been tried globally to find out an easier alternative. An exclusive and unique initiative, by limited autopsy through tissue biopsy and body fluid analysis, has been taken to meet this dire need in African and some of Asian developing countries, as worldwide accepted institutional data are even missing or conflicting at times. Traditional autopsy has changed little in last century, consisting of external examination and evisceration, dissection of organs with identification of macroscopic pathologies and injuries, followed by histopathology. As some population groups have religious objections to autopsy, demand for minimally invasive alternative has increased of late. But assessment of cause of death is most important for medico-legal, epidemiological and research purposes. Thus minimally invasive technique is of high importance in primary care settings too. In this article, we have made a journey through different autopsy methods, their relevance and applicability in modern day perspective considering scientific research articles, textbooks and interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Das
- Department of Forensic and State Medicine, Medical College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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Castillo P, Martínez MJ, Ussene E, Jordao D, Lovane L, Ismail MR, Carrilho C, Lorenzoni C, Fernandes F, Bene R, Palhares A, Ferreira L, Lacerda M, Mandomando I, Vila J, Hurtado JC, Munguambe K, Maixenchs M, Sanz A, Quintó L, Macete E, Alonso P, Bassat Q, Menéndez C, Ordi J. Validity of a Minimally Invasive Autopsy for Cause of Death Determination in Adults in Mozambique: An Observational Study. PLoS Med 2016; 13:e1002171. [PMID: 27875530 PMCID: PMC5119723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an urgent need to identify tools able to provide reliable information on the cause of death in low-income regions, since current methods (verbal autopsy, clinical records, and complete autopsies) are either inaccurate, not feasible, or poorly accepted. We aimed to compare the performance of a standardized minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) approach with that of the gold standard, the complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA), in a series of adults who died at Maputo Central Hospital in Mozambique. METHODS AND FINDINGS In this observational study, coupled MIAs and CDAs were performed in 112 deceased patients. The MIA analyses were done blindly, without knowledge of the clinical data or the results of the CDA. We compared the MIA diagnosis with the CDA diagnosis of cause of death. CDA diagnoses comprised infectious diseases (80; 71.4%), malignant tumors (16; 14.3%), and other diseases, including non-infectious cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, kidney, and lung diseases (16; 14.3%). A MIA diagnosis was obtained in 100/112 (89.2%) cases. The overall concordance between the MIA diagnosis and CDA diagnosis was 75.9% (85/112). The concordance was higher for infectious diseases and malignant tumors (63/80 [78.8%] and 13/16 [81.3%], respectively) than for other diseases (9/16; 56.2%). The specific microorganisms causing death were identified in the MIA in 62/74 (83.8%) of the infectious disease deaths with a recognized cause. The main limitation of the analysis is that both the MIA and the CDA include some degree of expert subjective interpretation. CONCLUSIONS A simple MIA procedure can identify the cause of death in many adult deaths in Mozambique. This tool could have a major role in improving the understanding and surveillance of causes of death in areas where infectious diseases are a common cause of mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Castillo
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel J. Martínez
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esperança Ussene
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Dercio Jordao
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Lucilia Lovane
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Mamudo R. Ismail
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carla Carrilho
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Cesaltina Lorenzoni
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Fabiola Fernandes
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rosa Bene
- Department of Medicine, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Antonio Palhares
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Viera Dourado, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Luiz Ferreira
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Viera Dourado, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Marcus Lacerda
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Viera Dourado, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | | | - Jordi Vila
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Hurtado
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Maria Maixenchs
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Ariadna Sanz
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Llorenç Quintó
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eusebio Macete
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Pedro Alonso
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Menéndez
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jaume Ordi
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Maixenchs M, Anselmo R, Zielinski-Gutiérrez E, Odhiambo FO, Akello C, Ondire M, Zaidi SSH, Soofi SB, Bhutta ZA, Diarra K, Djitèye M, Dembélé R, Sow S, Minsoko PCA, Agnandji ST, Lell B, Ismail MR, Carrilho C, Ordi J, Menéndez C, Bassat Q, Munguambe K. Willingness to Know the Cause of Death and Hypothetical Acceptability of the Minimally Invasive Autopsy in Six Diverse African and Asian Settings: A Mixed Methods Socio-Behavioural Study. PLoS Med 2016; 13:e1002172. [PMID: 27875532 PMCID: PMC5119724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) is being investigated as an alternative to complete diagnostic autopsies for cause of death (CoD) investigation. Before potential implementation of the MIA in settings where post-mortem procedures are unusual, a thorough assessment of its feasibility and acceptability is essential. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted a socio-behavioural study at the community level to understand local attitudes and perceptions related to death and the hypothetical feasibility and acceptability of conducting MIAs in six distinct settings in Gabon, Kenya, Mali, Mozambique, and Pakistan. A total of 504 interviews (135 key informants, 175 health providers [including formal health professionals and traditional or informal health providers], and 194 relatives of deceased people) were conducted. The constructs "willingness to know the CoD" and "hypothetical acceptability of MIAs" were quantified and analysed using the framework analysis approach to compare the occurrence of themes related to acceptability across participants. Overall, 75% (379/504) of the participants would be willing to know the CoD of a relative. The overall hypothetical acceptability of MIA on a relative was 73% (366/504). The idea of the MIA was acceptable because of its perceived simplicity and rapidity and particularly for not "mutilating" the body. Further, MIAs were believed to help prevent infectious diseases, address hereditary diseases, clarify the CoD, and avoid witchcraft accusations and conflicts within families. The main concerns regarding the procedure included the potential breach of confidentiality on the CoD, the misperception of organ removal, and the incompatibility with some religious beliefs. Formal health professionals were concerned about possible contradictions between the MIA findings and the clinical pre-mortem diagnoses. Acceptability of the MIA was equally high among Christian and Islamic communities. However, in the two predominantly Muslim countries, MIA acceptability was higher in Mali than in Pakistan. While the results of the study are encouraging for the potential use of the MIA for CoD investigation in low-income settings, they remain hypothetical, with a need for confirmation with real-life MIA implementation and in populations beyond Health and Demographic Surveillance System areas. CONCLUSIONS This study showed a high level of interest in knowing the CoD of a relative and a high hypothetical acceptability of MIAs as a tool for CoD investigation across six distinct settings. These findings anticipate potential barriers and facilitators, both at the health facility and community level, essential for local tailoring of recommendations for future MIA implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Maixenchs
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde da Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rui Anselmo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde da Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | - Frank O. Odhiambo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Clarah Akello
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Maureen Ondire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - S. Shujaat H. Zaidi
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sajid Bashir Soofi
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zulfiqar A. Bhutta
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kounandji Diarra
- Centre pour le Développement des Vaccins (CVD-Mali), Bamako, Mali
| | - Mahamane Djitèye
- Centre pour le Développement des Vaccins (CVD-Mali), Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Samba Sow
- Centre pour le Développement des Vaccins (CVD-Mali), Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Selidji Todagbe Agnandji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Hôpital Albert Schweitzer, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bertrand Lell
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Hôpital Albert Schweitzer, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mamudo R. Ismail
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carla Carrilho
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Ordi
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Menéndez
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde da Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Quique Bassat
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde da Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Khátia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde da Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
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Bates M, Shibemba A, Mudenda V, Chimoga C, Tembo J, Kabwe M, Chilufya M, Hoelscher M, Maeurer M, Sinyangwe S, Mwaba P, Kapata N, Zumla A. Burden of respiratory tract infections at post mortem in Zambian children. BMC Med 2016; 14:99. [PMID: 27363601 PMCID: PMC4929772 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-016-0645-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autopsy studies are the gold standard for determining cause-of-death and can inform on improved diagnostic strategies and algorithms to improve patient care. We conducted a cross-sectional observational autopsy study to describe the burden of respiratory tract infections in inpatient children who died at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia. METHODS Gross pathology was recorded and lung tissue was analysed by histopathology and molecular diagnostics. Recruitment bias was estimated by comparing recruited and non-recruited cases. RESULTS Of 121 children autopsied, 64 % were male, median age was 19 months (IQR, 12-45 months). HIV status was available for 97 children, of whom 34 % were HIV infected. Lung pathology was observed in 92 % of cases. Bacterial bronchopneumonia was the most common pathology (50 %) undiagnosed ante-mortem in 69 % of cases. Other pathologies included interstitial pneumonitis (17 %), tuberculosis (TB; 8 %), cytomegalovirus pneumonia (7 %) and pneumocystis Jirovecii pneumonia (5 %). Comorbidity between lung pathology and other communicable and non-communicable diseases was observed in 80 % of cases. Lung tissue from 70 % of TB cases was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis by molecular diagnostic tests. A total of 80 % of TB cases were comorbid with malnutrition and only 10 % of TB cases were on anti-TB therapy when they died. CONCLUSIONS More proactive testing for bacterial pneumonia and TB in paediatric inpatient settings is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Bates
- HerpeZ, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia. .,University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia. .,Department of Infection, Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, and NIHR Biomedical Research centre at UCL Hospitals, London, UK.
| | - Aaron Shibemba
- Department of Pathology & Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Victor Mudenda
- Department of Pathology & Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Charles Chimoga
- HerpeZ, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - John Tembo
- HerpeZ, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,Institute for Infectious Diseases, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mwila Kabwe
- HerpeZ, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Moses Chilufya
- HerpeZ, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael Hoelscher
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Centre of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Maeurer
- Therapeutic Immunology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Microbiology, and Department of Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sylvester Sinyangwe
- Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Peter Mwaba
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,Ministry of Health, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nathan Kapata
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,National Tuberculosis Control Programme, Ministry of Community Development, Maternal and Child Health, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Alimuddin Zumla
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Infection, Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, and NIHR Biomedical Research centre at UCL Hospitals, London, UK
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Bates M, Brantsaeter AB. Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) in Africa: a neglected but important pathogen. J Virus Erad 2016; 2:136-42. [PMID: 27482452 PMCID: PMC4967964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In Africa, human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an important pathogen in a diverse range of patient groups. Congenital CMV infection is common, and most children undergo primary infection during the first year of life. Preliminary studies suggest that these early primary CMV infections could have population-wide effects on growth and development. In most studies of adults, CMV seroprevalence is close to 100%, but some studies have found that significant minorities of adults are seronegative. CMV is a common cause of pneumonia and meningitis in hospitalised immunosuppressed patient groups, and CMV DNAemia may be an important marker of rapid progression and poor outcomes of HIV infection, despite roll-out of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Diagnosis and treatment of CMV-related disease is broadly neglected in Africa, and no randomised clinical trials of anti-CMV drugs have been conducted to date. Autopsy is rarely performed in Africa, but identifies CMV as a frequent pathogen when it is carried out. Here we review the available literature on CMV in Africa, primarily in adult patients, and discuss this in the context of contemporary understanding of CMV as a human pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Bates
- HerpeZ,
University Teaching Hospital,
Lusaka,
Zambia
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Programme,
University Teaching Hospital,
Lusaka,
Zambia
| | - Arne Broch Brantsaeter
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Department of Acute Medicine,
Oslo University Hospital Ullevål,
Oslo,
Norway
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Abstract
Clara Menéndez and colleagues consider the importance of conducting autopsies and possible alternative methods for determining cause of death in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Paola Castillo
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro L. Alonso
- Global Malaria Program, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jaume Ordi
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Menéndez
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- * E-mail:
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Castillo P, Ussene E, Ismail MR, Jordao D, Lovane L, Carrilho C, Lorenzoni C, Lacerda MV, Palhares A, Rodríguez-Carunchio L, Martínez MJ, Vila J, Bassat Q, Menéndez C, Ordi J. Pathological Methods Applied to the Investigation of Causes of Death in Developing Countries: Minimally Invasive Autopsy Approach. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132057. [PMID: 26126191 PMCID: PMC4488344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Complete diagnostic autopsies (CDA) remain the gold standard in the determination of cause of death (CoD). However, performing CDAs in developing countries is challenging due to limited facilities and human resources, and poor acceptability. We aimed to develop and test a simplified minimally invasive autopsy (MIA) procedure involving organ-directed sampling with microbiology and pathology analyses implementable by trained technicians in low- income settings. METHODS A standardized scheme for the MIA has been developed and tested in a series of 30 autopsies performed at the Maputo Central Hospital, Mozambique. The procedure involves the collection of 20 mL of blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and puncture of liver, lungs, heart, spleen, kidneys, bone marrow and brain in all cases plus uterus in women of childbearing age, using biopsy needles. RESULTS The sampling success ranged from 67% for the kidney to 100% for blood, CSF, lung, liver and brain. The amount of tissue obtained in the procedure varied from less than 10 mm2 for the lung, spleen and kidney, to over 35 mm2 for the liver and brain. A CoD was identified in the histological and/or the microbiological analysis in 83% of the MIAs. CONCLUSIONS A simplified MIA technique allows obtaining adequate material from body fluids and major organs leading to accurate diagnoses. This procedure could improve the determination of CoD in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Castillo
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esperança Ussene
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Mamudo R. Ismail
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Dercio Jordao
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Lucilia Lovane
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carla Carrilho
- Department of Pathology, Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | - Marcus V. Lacerda
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Viera Dourado, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Antonio Palhares
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Viera Dourado, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | | | - Miguel J. Martínez
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Vila
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Clara Menéndez
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jaume Ordi
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB), Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
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Bates M, Mudenda V, Shibemba A, Kaluwaji J, Tembo J, Kabwe M, Chimoga C, Chilukutu L, Chilufya M, Kapata N, Hoelscher M, Maeurer M, Mwaba P, Zumla A. Burden of tuberculosis at post mortem in inpatients at a tertiary referral centre in sub-Saharan Africa: a prospective descriptive autopsy study. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2015; 15:544-51. [PMID: 25765217 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(15)70058-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with subclinical tuberculosis, smear-negative tuberculosis, extrapulmonary tuberculosis, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and asymptomatic tuberculosis are difficult to diagnose and may be missed at all points of health care. We did an autopsy study to ascertain the burden of tuberculosis at post mortem in medical inpatients at a tertiary care hospital in Lusaka, Zambia. METHODS Between April 5, 2012, and May 22, 2013, we did whole-body autopsies on inpatients aged at least 16 years who died in the adult inpatient wards at University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia. We did gross pathological and histopathological analysis and processed lung tissues from patients with tuberculosis through the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay to identify patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. The primary outcome measure was specific disease or diseases stratified by HIV status. Secondary outcomes were missed tuberculosis, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and comorbidities with tuberculosis. Data were analysed using Pearson χ(2), the Mann-Whitney U test, and binary logistic regression. FINDINGS The median age of the 125 included patients was 35 years (IQR 29-43), 80 (64%) were men, and 101 (81%) were HIV positive. 78 (62%) patients had tuberculosis, of whom 66 (85%) were infected with HIV. 35 (45%) of these 78 patients had extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The risk of extrapulmonary tuberculosis was higher among HIV-infected patients than among uninfected patients (adjusted odds ratio 5·14, 95% CI 1·04-24·5; p=0·045). 20 (26%) of 78 patients with tuberculosis were not diagnosed during their life and 13 (17%) had undiagnosed multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Common comorbidities with tuberculosis were pyogenic pneumonia in 26 patients (33%) and anaemia in 15 (19%). INTERPRETATION Increased clinical awareness and more proactive screening for tuberculosis and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in inpatient settings is needed. Further autopsy studies are needed to ascertain the generalisability of the findings. FUNDING UBS Optimus Foundation, EuropeAID, and European Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Bates
- Department of Infection, Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK; University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Victor Mudenda
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Aaron Shibemba
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jonas Kaluwaji
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - John Tembo
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mwila Kabwe
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Charles Chimoga
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Lophina Chilukutu
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Moses Chilufya
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nathan Kapata
- National Tuberculosis Control Programme, Ministry of Community Development, Maternal and Child Health, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Michael Hoelscher
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Centre of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Maeurer
- Therapeutic Immunology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Microbiology, and Department of Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Mwaba
- University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Alimuddin Zumla
- Department of Infection, Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK; University of Zambia and University College London Medical School Research and Training Project, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia; National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University College London Hospitals, London, UK.
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Yawson AE, Tette E, Tettey Y. Through the lens of the clinician: autopsy services and utilization in a large teaching hospital in Ghana. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:943. [PMID: 25533037 PMCID: PMC4307638 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Declining hospital autopsy rates in many countries have generated considerable concern. The survey determined challenges of the autopsy service in a large Teaching Hospital in Ghana, from the perspective of clinicians. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of doctors at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) over in 2012. The data was collected using a 69 item self-administered structured questionnaire. In all a total of 215 questionnaires were sent out and 119 doctors responded. Data was collected on the challenges of the autopsy services and barriers to autopsy request from the perspectives of clinicians. Survey data were analyzed by simple descriptive statistics (i.e. proportions, ratios and percentages. Data from survey was analyzed with SPSS version 21. Results The most common reasons for requesting autopsies were to answer clinical questions, 55 (46.2%) and in cases of uncertain diagnosis, 54 (45.4%). Main demand side barriers to the use of autopsy services by clinicians were reluctance of family to give consent for autopsy 100 (84%), due to cultural and religious objections 89 (74.8%), extra funeral cost to family53 (44.5%) and increased duration of stay of body in the morgue 19 (16%). Health system barriers included delayed feedback from autopsy service 54 (45.4%), difficulties following up the autopsy process 40 (33.6%) due to uncertainties in the timing of particular events in the autopsy process, and long waiting time for autopsy reports 81 (68.1%). More than a third of clinicians 43 (36.2%), received full autopsy report beyond three weeks and 75 (63.1%) clinicians had concerns with the validity of reports issued by the autopsy service (i.e. reports lack specificity or at variance with clinical diagnosis, no toxicological, histological or tissue diagnoses are performed). Conclusion The autopsy service should restructure itself efficiently and management should support the provision of histological and toxicological services. Strengthening internal and external quality improvement and control of autopsies in the Hospital are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred E Yawson
- Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Room 46, P, O, Box 4236, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana.
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Tette E, Yawson AE, Tettey Y. Clinical utility and impact of autopsies on clinical practice among doctors in a large teaching hospital in Ghana. Glob Health Action 2014; 7:23132. [PMID: 24499743 PMCID: PMC3914029 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v7.23132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Revised: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autopsies can provide a good indication of the quality of patient care, in terms of the accuracy of clinical diagnosis and the quality of treatment given. DESIGNS This was a cross-sectional study among clinicians at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) in 2012. Data were collected with a 69-item, self-administered, structured questionnaire. A total of 215 questionnaires were sent out and 119 clinicians responded. Data were collected on the benefits and utility of autopsies for medical practice, care of patients, and management of clinical wards. Survey data were analyzed by simple descriptive statistics (i.e. proportions, ratios, and percentages). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. OBJECTIVE This study examined the views of clinicians regarding the utility of autopsies and their influence on clinical practice in a large teaching hospital in Ghana. RESULTS Overall, clinicians in KBTH agreed that autopsy reports are useful in answering clinical questions (55/119; 46.2%), confirming or verifying clinical diagnoses (54/119; 45.4%), providing information on unsuspected diagnoses (40/119; 33.6%), and for medical education (90/119; 75.6%). Overall, 70/119 (58.8%) of clinicians agreed that autopsy findings improve completeness and reliability of death certification and provide information on clinical effectiveness of treatment and patient management. However, only 23/119 (19.3%) of sampled clinicians had personal interactions with a pathologist during autopsy processes and 93/119 (78.2%) had not attended any autopsy demonstrations in the past 6 months. Attendance of pathologists at clinicopathological meetings of clinical departments of KBTH was minimal. Unfortunately, the use of autopsy reports for auditing clinical diagnostic performance was not seen as essential. CONCLUSION Strengthening the interaction between doctors and pathologists is essential in improving the autopsy process and utilization in the hospital. KBTH should create opportunities for doctors to attend autopsy demonstrations and for pathologists to attend clinicopathological meetings in the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edem Tette
- Department of Community Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | - Alfred E Yawson
- Department of Community Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana; ;
| | - Yao Tettey
- Department of Pathology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana; Office of the Provost, College of Health Sciences, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW According to the WHO, lower respiratory tract infections are one of the most prevalent causes of death in Africa. Estimates based on verbal autopsies are inaccurate compared with the gold standard for determining cause of death, the anatomical postmortem. Here, we review all respiratory postmortem data available from Africa and assess disease prevalence by HIV status in both adults and children. RECENT FINDINGS Pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis was detected in over 50% of HIV-infected adults, four to five-fold more prevalent than in HIV-uninfected cases. Overall tuberculosis was less prevalent in children, but was more prevalent in HIV-uninfected compared with HIV-infected children. Bacterial pneumonia was more prevalent in children than adults and was relatively unaffected by HIV status. Pneumocystis jirovecci and human cytomegalovirus pneumonia were detected almost exclusively in HIV-infected mortalities, twice as prevalent in children as in adults. Coinfections were common and correlation with premortem clinical diagnoses was low. SUMMARY Respiratory tract infections are important causes of mortality in Africa. Of the 21 reviewed studies, only four studies (all adults) were undertaken in the last decade. There is hence an urgent need for new postmortem studies to monitor cause of death in new and emerging patient groups, such as those on antiretroviral therapy and HIV exposed uninfected children.
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Bassat Q, Ordi J, Vila J, Ismail MR, Carrilho C, Lacerda M, Munguambe K, Odhiambo F, Lell B, Sow S, Bhutta ZA, Rabinovich NR, Alonso PL, Menéndez C. Development of a post-mortem procedure to reduce the uncertainty regarding causes of death in developing countries. LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH 2013; 1:e125-6. [PMID: 25104253 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(13)70037-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Quique Bassat
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique; Barcelona Centre for International Health Research, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jaume Ordi
- Barcelona Centre for International Health Research, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Vila
- Barcelona Centre for International Health Research, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mamudo R Ismail
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine/Eduardo Mondlane University and Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carla Carrilho
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine/Eduardo Mondlane University and Maputo Central Hospital, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Marcus Lacerda
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr Heitor Viera Dourado, Manaus, Brazil; Universidade do Estado de Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | - Frank Odhiambo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/CDC Research and Public Health Collaboration, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Bertrand Lell
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon; Institute for Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Samba Sow
- Centre pour les Vaccins en Dévelopement, Bamako, Mali
| | | | - N Regina Rabinovich
- Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro L Alonso
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique; Barcelona Centre for International Health Research, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Menéndez
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique; Barcelona Centre for International Health Research, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Horey D, Flenady V, Heazell AEP, Khong TY. Interventions for supporting parents' decisions about autopsy after stillbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013; 2013:CD009932. [PMID: 23450611 PMCID: PMC11625498 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009932.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stillbirth remains one of the least understood areas of infant death and accurate data on the causes of stillbirth are the cornerstone of stillbirth prevention. An autopsy examination remains the gold standard post-mortem investigation for stillbirth. However, decisions about post-mortem investigations, particularly autopsy are difficult. The purpose of this review is to examine the effectiveness of methods to help parents who have experienced a stillbirth decide whether to have post-mortem investigations, including whether to have an autopsy performed. OBJECTIVES The primary objectives were a) to examine the effectiveness of interventions to support parents' decisions about autopsy consent after a stillbirth on outcomes for parents, and b) to determine autopsy rates. Secondary objectives were to identify issues related to the acceptability of any interventions to parents and the feasibility of their implementation. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (29 October 2012), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2012, Issue 10), MEDLINE (1966 to 24 July 2012) and EMBASE (1980 to 24 July 2012), Current Controlled Trials metaRegister (mRCT) (18 September 2012) and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform Search Portal (ICTRP) (18 September 2012). We also searched the websites of the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity (SANDS) and International Stillbirth Alliance (ISA) (18 September 2012) and then subsequently searched the websites of all the ISA member organisations. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions designed specifically to support parents who have experienced a stillbirth make decisions about their options for post-mortem investigations including all investigations after stillbirth compared with usual care. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened citations against the selection criteria. MAIN RESULTS No studies meeting the review inclusion criteria were identified. A search of 40 websites associated with supporting parents who experience stillbirth also found little reference to, or information about autopsy or other post-mortem examinations. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Support for parents making decisions about autopsy or other post-mortem examinations after stillbirth must rely on the ad hoc knowledge and experience of those involved at the time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dell Horey
- Faculty of Health Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia.
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Banyini AV, Rees D, Gilbert L. "Even if I were to consent, my family will never agree": exploring autopsy services for posthumous occupational lung disease compensation among mineworkers in South Africa. Glob Health Action 2013; 6:19518. [PMID: 23364088 PMCID: PMC3556717 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v6i0.19518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Context In the South African mining sector, cardiorespiratory-specific autopsies are conducted under the Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (ODMWA) on deceased mineworkers to determine eligibility for compensation. However, low levels of autopsy utilisation undermine the value of the service. Objective To explore enablers and barriers to consent that impact on ODMWA autopsy utilisation for posthumous monetary compensation. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with mineworkers, widows and relatives of deceased mineworkers as well as traditional healers and mine occupational health practitioners. Results A range of socio-cultural barriers to consent for an autopsy was identified. These barriers were largely related to gendered power relations, traditional and religious beliefs, and communication and trust. Understanding these barriers presents opportunities to intervene so as to increase autopsy utilisation. Conclusions Effective interventions could include engagement with healthy mine-workers and their families and re-evaluating the permanent removal of organs. The study adds to our understanding of utilisation of the autopsy services.
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Turner GDH, Bunthi C, Wonodi CB, Morpeth SC, Molyneux CS, Zaki SR, Levine OS, Murdoch DR, Scott JAG. The role of postmortem studies in pneumonia etiology research. Clin Infect Dis 2012; 54 Suppl 2:S165-71. [PMID: 22403232 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cir1062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of etiology in severe pneumonia remains a challenging area. Postmortem lung tissue potentially increases the sensitivity of investigations for identification of causative pathogens in fatal cases of pneumonia and can confirm antemortem microbiological diagnoses. Tissue sampling allows assessment of histological patterns of disease and ancillary immunohistochemical or molecular diagnostic techniques. It may also enhance the recognition of noninfectious conditions that clinically simulate acute pneumonia. Biobanking of lung tissue or postmortem culture isolates offers opportunities for new pathogen discovery and research into host-pathogen interactions. The Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health study proposes a percutaneous needle biopsy approach to obtain postmortem samples, rather than a full open autopsy. This has the advantage of greater acceptability to relatives, but risks greater sampling error. Both approaches may be susceptible to microbiological contamination or pathogen degradation. However, previous autopsy studies have confirmed the value of histological examination in revealing unsuspected pathogens and influencing clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of future pneumonia cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth D H Turner
- Mahidol-Oxford Research Unit, and Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Horey D, Flenady V, Heazell AEP, Khong TY. Interventions for supporting parents’ decisions about autopsy after stillbirth. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Mudenda V, Lucas S, Shibemba A, O'Grady J, Bates M, Kapata N, Schwank S, Mwaba P, Atun R, Hoelscher M, Maeurer M, Zumla A. Tuberculosis and Tuberculosis/HIV/AIDS-Associated Mortality in Africa: The Urgent Need to Expand and Invest in Routine and Research Autopsies. J Infect Dis 2012; 205 Suppl 2:S340-6. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jir859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Cox JA, Lukande RL, Kateregga A, Mayanja-Kizza H, Manabe YC, Colebunders R. Autopsy acceptance rate and reasons for decline in Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Trop Med Int Health 2011; 16:1015-8. [PMID: 21564428 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2011.02798.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the autopsy acceptance rate and reasons for decline at Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. METHODS The next of kin of patients who died in a combined infectious diseases and gastro-enterology ward of Mulago Hospital were approached to answer a questionnaire concerning characteristics of their deceased relative. During the interview their consent was asked to perform a complete autopsy. If autopsy was declined, the next of kin were asked to provide their reason for the decline. RESULTS Permission to perform an autopsy was requested in 158 (54%) of the 290 deaths that occurred during the study period. In 60 (38%) cases autopsy was accepted. Fifty-nine autopsies were performed. For 82% of refusals a reason was listed; mainly 'not wanting to delay the burial' (58%), 'no use to know the cause of death' (16%) and 'being satisfied with the clinical cause of death' (10%). CONCLUSION The autopsy rate achieved under study conditions was 38% compared to rates of 5% in Mulago Hospital over the past decade. Timely request and rapid performance of autopsies appear to be important determinants of autopsy acceptance. A motivated team of pathologists and clinicians is required to increase autopsy acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janneke A Cox
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Trials and tribulations of an African-led research and capacity development programme: the case for EDCTP investments. Trop Med Int Health 2010; 15:489-94. [PMID: 20180932 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2010.02479.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We describe the initiation and establishment of The University of Zambia - University College London Medical School (UNZA-UCLMS) Research and Training Project, an entirely African scientist-led, south-north partnership. In its 16 year existence, the project, by successfully obtaining competitive grant funding, has transformed itself into one of Africa's most productive African-led R&D programmes with training and visible research outputs. The project serves as a role model and now networks R&D and training activities with six southern African (10 institutions) and six European countries. This project case study illustrates that deep commitment is essential for success and that the factors which facilitate success in R&D in Africa need to be evaluated. The long-term prospects for sustaining the UNZA-UCLMS Project appear bright and are dependent on several factors: the ability to retain trained African scientists; obtaining continued competitive or donor grant funding support; and serious investment by the African governments involved. The recent 255 million Euros EDCTP investment in sub-Saharan Africa through south-north partnerships is expected to enhance existing African-led R&D programmes. African governments and scientists must rise to the challenge.
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Oluwasola OA, Fawole OI, Otegbayo AJ, Ogun GO, Adebamowo CA, Bamigboye AE. The autopsy: knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of doctors and relatives of the deceased. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2009; 133:78-82. [PMID: 19123741 DOI: 10.5858/133.1.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Despite the crucial role that autopsy plays in the development of the science and practice of medicine, autopsy rates have been declining throughout the world in recent decades. OBJECTIVE To identify factors influencing the acceptance of autopsies in Nigeria. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey of the knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of doctors and relatives of deceased patients on factors influencing acceptance of autopsy at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. RESULTS Only 38% of relatives had satisfactory knowledge about autopsy and about 50% of doctors knew that physicians' desire for autopsy should not override patients' consent. Doctors identified difficulty in obtaining consent from relatives of deceased patients, administrative problems in requesting autopsy, and delay in obtaining autopsy report as major reasons responsible for the decline in autopsy requests, whereas relatives of the deceased cited fear of mutilation, concerns about delaying the funeral, and objection by the patient before death as reasons for refusal to grant permission for an autopsy. Sociodemographic factors such as age, occupation, religion, ethnicity, and level of education significantly influenced willingness to give consent for autopsy. CONCLUSIONS There is need for concerted effort on the part of clinicians, pathologists, the public, and the government to resuscitate and sustain the practice of autopsy in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olayiwola Abideen Oluwasola
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
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Stawicki SP, Gracias VH, Schrag SP, Martin ND, Dean AJ, Hoey BA. The dead continue to teach the living: examining the role of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in the setting of postmortem examinations. JOURNAL OF SURGICAL EDUCATION 2008; 65:200-205. [PMID: 18571133 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsurg.2007.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2007] [Revised: 11/08/2007] [Accepted: 11/14/2007] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
High-resolution imaging methods are used more frequently in the setting of postmortem investigation. Used for some time in forensics, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are now being evaluated as complementary or even as alternative means of postmortem examination. We review briefly the history of autopsy and the reasons for the gradual decrease in autopsy rates. An overview of advantages and limitations of modern imaging autopsy techniques is then presented, which includes a discussion of the potential role of imaging autopsy in medical and surgical education. Potential future applications of this technology in postmortem analysis, which includes the incorporation of ultrasound technology, are then discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Peter Stawicki
- Department of Surgery, Division of Traumatology and Surgical Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Abstract
The autopsy is now often regarded as of marginal use in modern clinical practice. In this Review we contend that the autopsy remains an important procedure with substantial, if largely underused, potential to advance medical knowledge and improve clinical practice. Many doctors lack familiarity with autopsy practices, and are insufficiently aware of the benefits for not only bereaved families but also present and future patients. In this Review, which has an international perspective, we consider the ascent and decline of the autopsy, the legal frameworks that govern its use, the value and potential pitfalls of alternatives to the conventional method, and the autopsy's role in undergraduate medical education. We also draw attention to the continuing ability of autopsies to improve the completeness and reliability of death certification, which is important for public-health strategies and for some bereaved families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian L Burton
- Academic Unit of Pathology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK.
| | - James Underwood
- Academic Unit of Pathology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
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