1.Assessment of diagnostic delay and direct costs among hospitalized patients with tuberculosis
Altanchimeg B ; Purevsod L ; Munkhzul B ; Oyungerel R ; Gantugs Yu
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;96(6):116-120
Background:
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern worldwide and continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Delays in diagnosis and care seeking exacerbate disease severity and increase financial burdens on healthcare systems and patients. In Mongolia, comprehensive evidence on diagnostic delays and direct hospitalization costs for TB patients remains limited.
Aim:
To evaluate the duration of diagnostic delay and estimate direct medical costs incurred during hospitalization among TB patients, as well as to identify associated factors.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using medical records of 285 newly diagnosed TB patients hospitalized at the National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) in 2024. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26 and MS Excel. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Result:
The mean age of participants was 42.6±16.0 years, and 56.5% (n=161) were male. Median patient delay was 14 days (IQR: 5–31), median diagnostic delay was 4 days (IQR: 0–14), and mean hospital stay was 21.0±16.0 days. Median direct costs per patient were: diagnostic cost 262.0 thousand MNT (IQR: 187.0–363.0), treatment cost 490.9 thousand MNT (IQR: 234.4–884.1), and total cost 761.7 thousand MNT (IQR: 460.4–1247.6). Multivariate linear regression revealed that patient delay >14 days was significantly associated with higher total costs (=659.333, p=0.004).
Conclusion
1. The median patient delay among patients with tuberculosis was 14 days (IQR, 5–31), while the median diagnostic delay was 4 days (IQR, 0–14). Overall, 61.6% of patients experienced patient delay, and 63.5% experienced diagnostic delay.
2. The median total direct medical cost among hospitalized patients was 761.7 thousand Mongolian Tugriks (MNT). A patient delay of more than 14 days was significantly associated with increased total direct medical costs (β=659.333, P=.004).
2.Factors associated with complications and recurrence of erysipelas
Purevsod L ; Nomin B ; Khorolgarav G ; Davaakhuu B ; Oyungerel R ; Baatarkhuu O ; ; Nyamtsengel V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;94(4):37-42
Background:
Erysipelas is an acute, recurrent infectious disease caused by Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus. Recurrence occurs in 12–29% of patients, and complications in approximately 31%. International studies indicate that age, sex, and skin conditions are key factors influencing complications and recurrence. In Mongolia, the incidence of erysipelas has not steadily declined, and there is a lack of studies investigating clinical and laboratory predictors of complications and recurrence.
Aim::
This study aimed to investigate clinical and laboratory predictors of complications and recurrence among erysipelas cases registered in Mongolia.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 165 patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of erysipelas at the National Center for Communicable Diseases between 2020 and 2024 were randomly selected. Data were collected based on the “Clinical Guidelines for Erysipelas.” Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26, and ROC curve analysis along with regression models were used to determine risk and predictive factors. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
The mean age of participants was 50.4±14.2 years; 76.5% were female, and 32.1% were herders. Recurrence was observed in 55.1% of patients (42.8% repeated episodes, 57.2% recurrent cases), and complications occurred in 10.3%. Among patients with complications, lesions were most commonly located on the face (41.2%) and predominantly presented as erythematous-bullous forms (70.6%). The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was 7.1 (AUC: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.79–0.91, p=0.001), and the systemic inflammatory response index was 3.9 (AUC: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.88–0.98, p=0.001), indicating high levels. Multivariable regression analysis showed that risk factors for complications included age >45 years (aOR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.7, p=0.004), female sex (aOR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.7–4.6, p=0.001), and occupation (herder) (aOR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.3–5.4, p=0.001). Chronic tonsillitis was significantly associated with recurrence (OR=3.8, 95% CI: 2.5–5.7, p=0.001). Cox regression analysis demonstrated that each additional year of age increased the risk of complications by 2% (HR=1.02, 95% CI: 1.01–1.03, p=0.003), while the presence of chronic tonsillitis increased the risk of recurrence by 7.69 times (HR=7.69, 95% CI: 5.15–11.49, p=0.001).
Conclusion
Cellular ratio indicators in erysipelas are useful for assessing inflammatory activity and disease progression. Age, sex, occupation, and the presence of chronic tonsillitis significantly influence the risk of complications and recurrence in erysipelas.
3.Clinical manifestations of acute hepatitis C virus infection with syphilis co-infection
Nomin B ; Bayarnyam T ; Oyungerel M ; Nyamtsengel V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;94(4):74-77
Background:
Mongolia, as a country with a high burden of liver disease caused by viral infections, has prioritized reducing the spread of viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in line with the WHO strategy for 2022–2030. Orders A/133 (2023) and A/18 (2024) issued by the Ministry of Health mandate that healthcare providers initiate screening of hospitalized patients for hepatitis B and C viruses, syphilis, and HIV infection. Among infectious diseases registered in Mongolia, STIs rank among the leading causes, with more than 40% of reported cases being newly diagnosed syphilis. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and syphilis are transmitted via the parenteral route, can lead to chronic disease, and co-infection represents a serious condition that accelerates liver damage and negatively affects treatment outcomes. Syphilis infection places additional stress on liver function and exacerbates HCV-related inflammation.
Aim:
This study aimed to investigate how syphilis co-infection affects the biochemical and clinical course of acute hepatitis C virus infection.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective, hospital-based cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 74 patients diagnosed with acute hepatitis C virus infection and treated at the National Center for Communicable Diseases between 2025 and 2026 were randomly selected. Data were collected from medical records. Patients were divided into two groups based on syphilis serology results: HCV mono-infection and HCV with syphilis co-infection. Differences between variables in the two groups were analyzed using the T-test, with statistical analysis performed using SPSS version 26. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
Of the study participants, 17 (23%) had syphilis co-infection. There were no statistically significant differences in age and sex between the groups (p=0.982). In the co-infected group, 23.5% had high RPR titers (indicative of active/new infection). Clinically, general signs of infection and intoxication (35.3%), fatigue (100%), dyspeptic syndrome (100%), and intoxication syndrome (100%) were predominant. Biochemical analysis showed significantly higher levels in the co-infected group compared to the mono-infected group: total bilirubin (192.4 vs 110.5 μmol/L, p<0.01), alkaline phosphatase (245.8 vs 132.1 U/L, p=0.004), and ALT (1240.5 vs 850.2 U/L, p=0.03). Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that the mean time for ALT normalization was longer in the co-infected group (26.4 days) compared to the mono-infected group (20.7 days) (p=0.006), indicating prolonged recovery.
Conclusion
Syphilis co-infection worsens the clinical course of acute hepatitis C, deepens jaundice and cholestatic syndrome, and prolongs the normalization of biochemical parameters.
4.Changes in rat behavior, lung, and hippocampal effects due to vaping exposure
Oyungerel S ; Tumenbayar B ; Javzandulam B ; Chimegsaikhan S ; Khulan B ; Altantsetseg B ; Mandakh-erdene B ; Munkhsoyol E
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):141-146
Background:
Nicotine-containing vaporized liquids—composed of
propylene glycol, glycerin, water, flavorings, and the thickening agent
vitamin E acetate—have been implicated in the development of EVALI.
Under conditions of low liquid levels and overheating, these substances
release toxic carbonyl compounds (e.g., formaldehyde, acetaldehyde,
acrolein). In a 2019 national survey, 3.5% of adolescents aged 13–15
reported cigarette use, and 10% used e-cigarettes.
Aim:
To study the changes in the behavior, lung, and hippocampal
structures of rats due to the effects of electronic cigarettes and their
vapor.
Materials and Methods:
In this study, nineteen 14-day-old SHR rats
were exposed to 1 g/mg/day of nicotine and dry hit vapor (control, nicotine
and dry hit groups) for four weeks. Behavioral assessments (Open
Field Test, Elevated Plus Maze, Conditioned Place Preference), bronchoalveolar
lavage (BAL), and histological analysis of lung and hippocampal
tissue were conducted.
Results:
The dry hit vapor group showed significantly reduced body
weight (p=0.034), increased anxiety (p=0.006, p=0.025), and avoidance
of the smoky chamber. BAL revealed elevated total cells, neutrophils,
and macrophages (p=0.01, p=0.04) in both nicotine and dry hit groups.
Lung tissue exhibited alveolar septal thickening, inflammation, and emphysema-
like changes. Extensive neuronal death was observed in the
hippocampus.
Conclusion
Anxiety-like behavior was observed in both the burn and
control groups. Analysis of BAL in the dry hit group revealed inflammation
predominantly characterized by macrophage infiltration. Histological
examination of lung tissue from both experimental groups
demonstrated a reduction in the number of alveoli, accompanied by
acute inflammation and thickening of the interalveolar septa. In the hippocampal
region, neuronal loss and a reduction in neuronal density
were also observed.
5.Histology of the fetal lungs at the different gestational age
Talalaev A G ; Davidov I S ; Oyungerel S ; Tumenbayar B ; Javzandulam E ; Khulan B ; Altantsetseg B ; Mandakh-Erdene B ; Nyamsuren P ; Chimegsaikhan S
Diagnosis 2025;115(4):11-16
The study is devoted to the morphological characteristics of the maturation of lung tissue structures in the fetal period. Fetal histology of the lungs presents the intrauterine development of lung tissue in four successive stages: pseudoglandular, canalicular, saccular and alveolar, each has specific morphological criteria. The following morphological features are predetermined: the development of alveolar epithelium, the ratio of mesenchyme towards the area in alveolar spaces, the degree of proliferation and location of vessels of the microcirculatory bed towards prealveolar partitions. During the fetal period the alveolar columnar epithelium is flattened and differentiates into alveolocytes type I lung histology with the demonstration of histological preparations of the lungs at different stages of intrauterine development. Keywords: fetal lungs, prealveolar structures, pseudoglandular stage, canalicular stage, alveolar stage, alveolar capillary membrane, immunohistochemical study. 16 and II, the area of the mesenchyme gradually decreases and by the birth of a full-term newborn kid it is present mainly in the thickness between the alveolar septa, microcirculation vessels, initially laying deep in the thickness of the mesenchymal tissue, gradually proliferate, approach the pre-alveolar epithelium, channeling it with the formation of alveolar capillary membranes. Air exchange in the lung tissue is mainly provided with two factors: the presence of second-order alveolocytes capable of producing surfactant, and a sufficient formation of alveolias well. This work summarizes the basics of fetal lung histology with the demonstration of histological preparations of the lungs at different stages of intrauterine development.
6.Modern advances in epilepsy treatment and diagnosis
Otgonbayar B ; Oyungerel S ; Chimegsaihan S ; Javsandulam E ; Khulan B ; Altantsetseg B ; Mandakh-Erdene B ; Oyun-Erdene S ; Suvd N ; Tumenbayar B
Diagnosis 2025;113(2):35-39
Abstract
Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affects millions of people worldwide. Significant advancements in both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have greatly improved outcomes, particularly for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy. Modern neurostimulation techniques such as Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS), Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency in these patients. Additionally, emerging technologies like gene therapy and optogenetics are being explored to better understand the underlying mechanisms of epilepsy and hold promise as future treatment modalities.Traditional imaging techniques often fail to detect subtle epileptogenic zones. However, the introduction of ultra high-field 7T MRI scanners represents a major breakthrough. These advanced scanners use eight transmitters to generate higher-resolution images, reducing signal dropout and enabling the identification of previously undetected lesions. In one study involving 31 patients, 58% had their treatment plans modified based on 7T MRI findings, highlighting its potential to inform surgical decision-making. In terms of pharmacological treatment, newer medications such as sultiame, cannabidiol (CBD), and non-pharmacological approaches like the ketogenic diet have emerged as additional therapeutic options for drug-resistant epilepsy. These developments contribute to more effective, personalized management strategies for epilepsy. In summary, the landscape of epilepsy diagnosis and treatment is rapidly evolving. Innovations in imaging and therapeutic interventions are offering new hope for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Ongoing research and clinical trials remain essential to further refine these approaches and improve patient outcomes.
7.Assessment of rational use of antibiotics among hospitalized pregnant women at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health
Oyungerel V ; ; Temuulen T ; Sosorbaram A ; Purevsuren S ; Tungalag B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;90(6):178-183
Background:
Pregnancy induces multiple physiological, metabolic, and immunological alterations that increase susceptibility to infections, often necessitating antibiotic therapy. Evaluating the rational use of antibiotics among pregnant
women is crucial for optimizing antimicrobial stewardship at the hospital level, improving clinical pharmacy services,
and reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Aim:
To assess the rational use of antibiotics, including indication, selection, dosage, and treatment duration—among
hospitalized pregnant women in the Department of High-Risk Pregnancy and the Department of Preterm Birth at the
National Center for Maternal and Child Health.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective study was conducted using a specifically designed data collection form to assess
antibiotic use among inpatients at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health. Descriptive statistical analyses were
performed using SPSS version 29.0.
Results:
A total of 348 pregnant inpatients were included, with a mean age of 31.6 ± 6.9 years. The mean length of hospital stay was significantly longer in the Department of Preterm Birth (12.5 ± 5.0 days) compared to the Department of
High-Risk Pregnancy (5.9 ± 2.0 days; p < 0.001). The indications for antibiotic use were therapeutic in 39.1%, prophylactic in 33.0%, and unspecified in 21.3% of cases. The most frequently prescribed antibiotic regimen was a combination
of β-lactams and metronidazole (29%). While the dosing of cefazolin and cefotaxime was largely appropriate, notable
dosing discrepancies were observed in the dosing of ampicillin and azithromycin. Based on the U.S. FDA pregnancy risk
classification, among a total of 762 antibiotic prescriptions, 87.0% belonged to category B, 8.8% to category C, and 4.2%
to category D, with no significant variation across trimesters (p = 0.695).
Conclusion
The assessment of antibiotic use among hospitalized pregnant women at the National Center for Maternal
and Child Health revealed that 39.1% of the prescriptions were therapeutic, 33.0% were prophylactic, and 21.3% lacked
a clear indication for use. β-lactam antibiotics were the most commonly used agents, frequently combined with metronidazole. Based on the FDA classification system, 87% of the prescribed antibiotics belonged to category B, 8.8% to
category C, and 4.2% to category D. These findings indicate inappropriate antibiotic use and insufficient implementation
of antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Therefore, strict adherence to antibiotic stewardship programs and strengthening
of clinical pharmacy services are necessary to improve antibiotic use practices.
8.Title: Effect of Cacalia hastate.L 60 mg/kg for 7 and 14 days in treatment on model of Gastric ulcer
Khulan B ; Ariunaa S ; Javzandulam E ; Chimegsaikhan S ; Jargalsaikhan B ; Mandakhaa B ; Tumenbayar B ; Oyungerel S ; Altantsetseg B
Diagnosis 2024;110(3):14-18
<b>Introductionb> Gastric ulcer is one of the most common disorders considering the gastrointestinal tract, it affects 5% of the population around the world, so its prevention and management are considered very important challenges. Researchers have revealed several causes
of gastric ulcer; these include an imbalance between aggressive and intrinsic defensive
factors. Gastric ulcer is a very common gastrointestinal disease that may lead to
dangerous complications and even death.
The aggressive factors include non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs(NSAID),alcohol,
psychological stress and Helicobacter pylori infection, cytoprotective intrinsic factors
include mucosal blood flow, bicarbonate, mucus, cell renewal, growth factors, NO
and prostaglandins, NSAID-induced gastric damage is known to be the most common
and dangerous side-effect of these drugs and accounts for 25% of gastric ulcer cases.
Indomethacin (INDO) is considered to be the most common NSAID known to induce experimental gastric ulcer and has been documented to have a higher potential to cause gastric injury than other commonly used NSAIDs.
Most of the drugs which are used for wound healing are imported in Mongolia. It is required to develop drug formulation and increase local productions used for the treatment of wound healing. For the
purpose of solving the above problems, we aimed to prepare new drug formulation from Cacalia hastata L. for the treatment.
of wound healing. Cacalia hastata L. is
a medicinal plant, member of the family
Asteraceae. Cacalia hastata L. is widely
used for the Mongolian traditional medicine
to
treat wound healing, gastric ulcer,
poisoning fever, liver fever, bile fever, oral
cavity, and gynecological diseases
9.Presenting the results of tuiplan treatment to diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis
Jimsee Ts ; Naranjargal Ch ; Oyungerel A ; Zolzaya B
Diagnosis 2024;110(3):82-86
Background:
Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in people aged 30-40 years. The cause of this disease has not yet been solved, but it is believed to be due to the weakening of the body’s resistance. It is a phenomenon that causes the body to become sick due to changes in the immune system that protects the body from the external environment. In general, genetic diseases, bacterial and viral infections are believed to be the source of arthritis. Physical and mental stress increases the risk of developing this condition. Drug treatment and surgery are often used selectively in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. Tuiplan treatment has recently been recommended as one of the traditional medical treatments, but there are few studies evaluating the results.
Clinical case:
Patient A, a 55-year-old woman. From 2009, the small joints of the hands began to swell and turn red. Since May 2010, both large and small joints have been swollen and painful to move. rheumatism was diagnosed after giving general blood test, urine test and immunological tests. Since June 2010, he has been using anti-inflammatory steroids and gold and silver needles, but the pain has not subsided. Pain: Stinging, hot and red pain in wrists, fingers, knees, and ankles. When you get up in the morning, you wake up stiff. Morning stiffness lasts 30 minutes. The pain is worse when moving at night.
Urine: Red, smelly and sticky.
Pulse: Fine, quick, intense, throbbing pulsation.
Treatment process:
The therapists used Tuiplan treatment for 21 days under the supervision of a doctor in a warm, well ventilated, closed, window-free room, taking the Tuiplan treatment together with the treatment in a heavy or closed way once a year or 3 times in 3 years.
Conclusion:
It is proved that the use of Tuiplan treatment in the treatment of chronic diseases is less dangerous, the recurrence of the disease is less, and complete recovery is possible if the disease is maintained. The results of the treatment were calculated and monitored by laboratory tests before and after the administration of Tuiplan.
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank the honorable, Dr.Mendsaikhan, consultant physician, doctor, and professor for helping, advising, and guiding me in my research work
10.A result of the detection of homozygous deletion of SMN1 gene in the spinal muscular atrophy
Esukhei E ; Khandsuren B ; Erdenetuya D ; Bolormaa D ; Mandakhnar M ; Oyungerel B ; Sarantsetseg S ; Yundendash D ; Nyam-Erdene N ; Batchimeg B ; Altansukh Ts ; Munkhbayar S ; Chimeglkham B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2024;207(1):20-29
Background:
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a degenerative neuromuscular disease that causes progressive
muscle weakness and atrophy due to the loss of the motor neurons. Approximately 95% of patients
with SMA are homozygous for the deletion of SMN1 exon 7. With an incidence of 1/10.000 and a carrier
frequency of 1/40 to 1/50, SMA is the most common genetic cause of death in infants.
Purpose:
To detect homozygous deletion of SMN1 exon 7 and to analyse the SMN1 copy number by molecular
genetic analysis.
Materials and Methods:
In this study, 3 SMA patients with SMN1 gene homozygous deletion and 17 people of their relatives were
included. Molecular genetic analysis was performed in the Central Scientific Research Laboratory of the
Institute of Medical Sciences. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood, and its purity was assessed by
spectrophotometer. Homozygous deletion of SMN1 gene was analyzed with allele-specific PCR, and
the SMN1 gene copy number was evaluated by real-time PCR.
Results:
Among the five participants diagnosed with SMA by clinical symptom and electromyographic test, three
cases were found to have homozygous deletion of exon 7 of the SMN1 gene, while two cases did not
exhibit such mutation by the allele specific PCR analysis.
The mean age of study participants was 27.76±16.07 (ranging from 8 months to 52 years).
Six of the 7 relatives of the first proband had 1 copy number of SMN1 (0.75±0.29) or were carriers
of SMA, while one had 3 copy numbers (2.99) or no deletion of SMN1 gene. Additionally, 6 of the 7
individuals of the second proband had 1 copy number of the SMN1 gene (0.72±0.14), and 1 person
had 2 copy numbers. All 3 relatives of the third proband had 1 copy number of SMN1 gene (0.96±0.37).
Conclusion
We consider that determination of SMN1 gene homozygous deletion and carrier testing
can be performed by the PCR method locally. Further, it is necessary to implement the molecular
genetic testing method into practice and to study the requirements and needs of early detection of SMA
in the newborn screening program of Mongolia.
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