1.First successful whole lung lavage for pulmonary alveolar proteinosis in Mongolia: A Case Report
Amartuvshin G ; ; Altanzul L ; Ichinnorov D ; ; Naidansuren Ts ; Solongo B ; Densenbal D ; ; Tumen-Ulzii G ; ; Allabyergyen M ; Tumurjin G ; Khaliun P ; Tamir L ; Erdenetuya E ; Byambasuren S ; Ankhzaya B ; Ganbold L ; Manaljav Ts ;
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;93(3):212-216
Background:
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disorder characterized by the accumulation of surfactant within the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory insufficiency. Although the disease is uncommon, it significantly affects patients’ quality of life and requires specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Whole lung lavage (WLL) is considered the standard treatment; however, it has not been widely implemented in Mongolia. We report the first successful case of WLL performed for PAP in Mongolia.
Case Presentation:
A 56-year-old male presented with dyspnea. Chest computed tomography demonstrated a bilateral “crazy paving” pattern. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was positive for periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) staining, and anti–GM-CSF antibodies were detected, confirming the diagnosis of PAP. WLL was performed under general anesthesia using a double-lumen endotracheal tube with bronchoscopic guidance. One lung was ventilated with 100% oxygen while the contralateral lung was sequentially lavaged with 800–1000 mL of warm (37°C) saline per cycle until the effluent became clear. A total of approximately 20 liters of saline was used.
Result:
The procedure was completed successfully without complications. Following treatment, the patient showed marked clinical improvement with reduced dyspnea and increased exercise tolerance. Oxygen saturation improved from 88% to 93%, and spirometric parameters (FVC, FEV₁) demonstrated improvement. Chest imaging revealed a reduction in pulmonary opacities.
Conclusion
This case demonstrates the successful implementation of whole lung lavage (WLL) in Mongolia and highlights its importance in improving the diagnostic and therapeutic capacity for rare pulmonary diseases such as pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. The procedure resulted in significant improvement in clinical, functional, and radiological parameters, consistent with findings from international studies. Early diagnosis of PAP and the adoption of standardized protocols in accordance with international guidelines are essential to optimize treatment outcomes and enhance patients’ quality of life.
2.Study of the factors associated with colorectal cancer
Ankhzaya B ; Enkhmend Kh ; Nomin-Erdene D ; Bolor U ; Nyamsuren M ; Sonor Z ; Chinzorig M ; Erkhembayar E ; Tsenguun G ; Yumchinsuren Ts ; Ganchimeg D ; Tegshjargal B ; Tulgaa L ; Batbold B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2025;211(1):18-27
Introduction:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) data from 2022, 19.9 million people were
diagnosed with cancer globally, and 9.7 million people died from the disease. In recent years,
the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been rapidly increasing, ranking 4th among all
cancers with 18.4 cases and 8.1 deaths per 100,000 population. In Mongolia, 826 new cases
of CRC have been registered over the past six years, with an incidence rate of 8.2 cases and
a mortality rate of 5.03 per 100,000 population. It is projected that by 2030, the incidence will
reach 13.28 cases and the mortality rate will rise to 8.72 per 100,000 population. We aimed
to comprehensively examine the risk factors for colorectal cancer among the population
of Mongolia, establish a scientific basis for early detection and prevention, and strengthen
preventive measures.
Materials and Methods:
A case-control study was conducted from 2022 to 2024. The study enrolled a total of 305
subjects, including 98 patients with colorectal cancer, 101 patients with colon polyps, and
106 healthy subjects. The risk. questionnaire consisted of 50 questions divided into 10
sections. All statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 23.0 software (SPSS Inc.,
Chicago, IL, USA) and P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. categorical
data was represented as numbers and percentages. Pearson’s chi-squared and Fisher’s
exact test were used to compare categorical variables. Multivariate logistic regression was
used to identify the risk factor associated with recurrence. The study protocol was approved
by Ethics Review Committee of Ministry of Health of Mongolia on 17 March 2023 (approval
number: 23/012).
Results:
The average age of the participants was 57.1±12.8 years. Among all study participants,
37.6% (115) were male and 62.4% (188) were female. Comparison of colorectal cancer
incidence by age and gender revealed no statistically significant differences (p=0.021;
p=0.422). Regular physical exercise was found to have a protective effect against colorectal
cancer (p=0.076; OR 0.341 95% Cl 0.118-.0986). The frequency of fruit consumption, 4 to 6
times per week (p=0.008, OR 0.08, 95% Cl 0.01-0.45), frequency of vegetable consumption
4 to 6 times per week (p<0.00; OR 0.07, 95% Cl 0.02-0.19), no dining out (0.007, OR 0.3,
95% Cl 0.18-0.68), and meat consumption (p=0.001) are decreased risk of colorectal cancer.
Conclusion
The patient's age and the presence of colon polyps are risk factors for colorectal cancer,
while regular physical activity and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are protective factors
that help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
3.Survey of citizens’ esophageal and gastric cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Uvs, Zavkhan, and Khovd aimags
Ulziisaikhan B ; Ankhzaya B ; Bayar D ; Oyun-Erdene B ; Tegshjargal B ; Tulgaa L ; Sodgerel B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2021;197(3):80-86
Introduction:
Cancer continues to be one of the world’s major health issues, with Mongolia continues
to lead Asia in esophageal (100’000: 17.1) and gastric cancer incidence (100’000: 41.0). In the
previous decade, 8,137 new cases of gastric cancer were reported in Mongolia. According to TNM
staging, eight out of every ten people are diagnosed late, recognizing the need to improve people’s
knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
Methods:
The survey was carried out using a questionnaire. A total of 320 participants between 17-
80 ages from the aimags of Uvs, Khovd, and Zavkhan were chosen at random for the survey, and
data was collected through social media. SPSS (v28.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) software was
used for statistical analysis.
Results:
The survey included 110, 106, and 104 participants from the aimags of Uvs, Zavkhan,
and Khovd. A total of 320 participants, with 20.9% (67) and 79.1% (253) being male and female
respectively. The average age was 35.56±9.15 years. The participants’ mean knowledges, attitudes
and practices scores were 7.54±2.7, 9.6±2.2, and 3.82±1.1 respectively in the first survey. Following
the advocacy campaign, the mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores increased to 9.3±2.7,
10.1±2.2, and 4.00±1.2, respectively.
Conclusion
The attitudes and practices of the participants were related to their level of knowledge.
It is critical to increase health education and advocacy efforts in order to develop the appropriate
attitudes and behaviors to reduce cancer-related deaths.
Result Analysis
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