1.A study on corneal morphometric parameters among Mongolian adults
Bayarmaa Kh ; Bayarmagnai L ; Bayasgalan P ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):56-61
Background:
The corneal endothelium, the innermost layer of the cornea, is composed of hexagonal cells that maintain
corneal transparency and provide essential nutrients to the stroma. These cells play a critical role in preserving visual acuity. Previous studies have demonstrated that endothelial cells do not regenerate, and their density progressively declines
with age, accompanied by morphological alterations. Given the individual variability in corneal thickness and endothelial
morphology, establishing normative reference values is crucial for diagnosing corneal diseases, planning corneal transplantation, and optimizing surgical strategies for cataract surgery. However, there is a scarcity of data regarding central
corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, and cell morphology among Mongolian adults. This knowledge gap provided
the rationale for the present study.
Aim:
To study the central corneal thickness and endothelial cell morphology in Mongolian adults.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted using an analytical cross-sectional design. A total of 198 individuals
aged 20 to 79 years were randomly selected, and comprehensive ophthalmic examinations were performed. Corneal parameters—including central corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, mean cell area, coefficient of variation of cell size,
and the percentage of hexagonal cells—were quantitatively assessed using a non-contact specular microscope. Ethical
approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences
(Approval No. 2024/3-06), and written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to enrollment.
Results:
The mean age of the study participants was 48.4±14.5 years, with 48.9% (n=97) being male and 51.1% (n=101)
female. In the central cornea, the mean endothelial cell density (ECD) was 2857.14±291.49 cells/mm², the mean central
corneal thickness (CCT) was 526.25±33.67 µm, the mean cell area was 335.11±37.82 µm², the percentage of hexagonal
cells was 64.81±3.94%, and the coefficient of variation (CV) in cell size was 0.31±0.04. With increasing age, both ECD
and the percentage of hexagonal cells showed a statistically significant decline, while the mean cell area and CV demon
strated a significant inverse correlation (P=0.0001). No statistically significant differences were observed in corneal thickness or endothelial morphometric parameters between the right and left eyes or between sexes. Among the Mongolian
adults, the endothelial cell density decreases by approximately 0.3% annually (r=0.2107, p<0.0001).
Conclusion
1. The mean central corneal thickness (CCT) in adult Mongolian individuals was 526.25±33.67 μm, which is comparable to reported averages from other populations. However, the mean endothelial cell density (ECD) was relatively
higher, measured at 2857.14±291.49 cells/mm².
2. With advancing age, a progressive decline in central endothelial cell density and the proportion of hexagonal cells
was observed, whereas the coefficient of variation (CV) in cell size and the mean cell area showed a corresponding
increase
2.Determination sugar and brix content in Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages
Nyamsuren A ; Khaliun B ; Uranchimeg L ; Nandin-Erdene O ; Gantuya D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):30-34
Background:
The main risk factors for childhood overweight and obesity include the consumption of sugar-sweetened
beverages and other sweetened foods. The sugar content of sugar-sweetened beverages was different from the nutritional
information on the packaging.
Aim:
To determine sugar and brix content in domestic manufactured sugar-sweetened beverages, and compare information on the packaging and regulatory standards.
Materials and Methods:
The sugar and brix content in sugar-sweetened beverages was determined by laboratory anal
ysis, including 150 domestically manufactured sugar-sweetened beverages. Laboratory analysis carried out in the Chemical toxicology laboratory of the National Reference Laboratory for Food Safety, MASM, determined sugar using a
saccharometer and brix using refractometry.
:
Results: The study included 150 Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages, including 20.7% (n=31) carbonated drinks,
47.3% (n=71) fruit drinks, 16.0% (n=24) tea drinks, 1.3% (n=2) energy drinks, 14.7% (n=22) flavored water. Sugar content 0.0–15.6% in sugar-sweetened beverages. The laboratory analysis results compared with information on the packaging 72.0% (n=108) difference between 0.1–11.3%, 10.7% (n=16) same, do not have sugar content in the nutritional information on the packaging 17.3% (n=26). Brix contained 0.2–13.0% carbonated drinks, 4.9–15.7% fruit drinks, 0.6–9.8%
tea drinks, 7.7–16.0% energy drinks, and 0.1–9.7% flavored water.
Conclusions
1. Sugar content 0.0–15.6%, brix 0.0–16.0% in Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages.
2. The laboratory analysis results compared with nutritional information on the packaging 72.0% (n=108) difference
between 0.1–11.3%, 10.7% (n=16) same nutritional information on the packaging, do not have sugar content in the
nutritional information on the packaging 17.3% (n=26).
3. 37.3% of Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages are unsatisfied with regulatory standards.
3.Central serous chorioretinopathy
Temuulen B ; Baasansuren G ; Byambadorj M ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):257-262
Background:
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is described by researchers as a condition that results from fluid
under the retinal pigment epithelium, originating from the choroid of the eye. This disease usually affects the central part
of vision and may resolve on its own over time, though in some cases, it can persist for long periods or recur. In our country, there is a lack of research regarding this condition, which led to the motivation for gathering and reviewing existing
works on this topic.
Aim:
To collect and analyze a review of the studies on central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).
Methods:
We reviewed and analyzed literature related to CSCR published in electronic sources such as Thomson Reuters, PubMed-central database, and Google Scholar using literature review methods.
Results:
CSCR is most commonly seen in individuals aged 35-55 years, with a significantly higher prevalence in men
(9.9/100,000) compared to women (1.7/100,000). Researchers found that the prevalence of CSCR is nearly the same
among populations in Europe, Africa, and Asia. CSCR typically affects one eye, but it occurs in both eyes in up to 40%
of cases. Weenink A (2001) studied the family members of 27 patients with bilateral CSCR, finding that 52% of family
members had been diagnosed with CSCR, and 27.5% of them had chronic CSCR in at least one eye. This suggests a
potential genetic predisposition to CSCR. According to researchers, while CSCR can be diagnosed clinically, additional
imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography are frequently used to rule out other
diagnoses and guide treatment.
Conclusion
CSCR generally has a favorable prognosis, but recurrences and its effects on visual function indicate the
need for effective management strategies. To maintain long-term visual improvement, it is essential to provide healthcare
services tailored to the patient’s specific conditions and risk factors.
4.Quality Assurance of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit - A Single Center Study
Sarantuya Ts ; Amarjargal B ; Tungalag B ; Khishgee D ; Amarmend T ; Delgertsog T ; Amarjargal E ; Sarantuya G ; Gan-Orshikh L ; Enkhjargal B ; Sarantsatsral D ; Burentungalag A ; Nandintsetseg B ; Tserendolgor Ts ; Sattgul Sh ; Javzanpagma E ; Suvdantsetseg B ; Khashchuluun O ; Ouynkhishig N ; Munkhtuya E ; Uranchimeg M ; Oyuntungalag L ; Myadagmaa B ; Bat-Erdene I ; Batgombo N ; Saranbaatar A
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):165-170
Background:
Accreditation of healthcare institutions serves as a fundamental mechanism for ensuring patient safety
and validating the quality of medical services provided to the population. At Intermed Hospital, a quality measurement
system for healthcare services has been established since 2015, encompassing 126 quality indicators at both institutional
and departmental levels. This system facilitates continuous quality improvement efforts. In this context, quality indicators
specific to the endoscopy department play a pivotal role in objectively assessing the quality of endoscopic services.
Aim:
To assess the quality indicators in gastrointestinal endoscopy unit.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective single-center study was conducted by collecting data from the Intermed hospital’s
electronic information systems which included HIS and PACS and Quality and Safety Department’s Database and the results
were processed using the SPSS software. Ethical approval was granted by the Intermed hospital’s Scientific research
committee. The quality of endoscopic services in the Intermed hospital was assessed based on: a) the average values of
four quality indicators measured monthly; b) sample survey data from five categories of quality indicators.
Results :
Between 2016 and 2024, the quality indicators of the endoscopy unit measured as the level of early warning
score evaluations for patients was 95.97%±3.33, the level of cases where peripheral blood oxygen saturation decreased
during sedation was 1.54%±3.78, the level of cases where patients experienced paradoxiical response during sedation was
5.82%±1.75, surveillance culturing level for validation of endoscopy reprocessing was 11.6%. The endoscopic documentation
quality by peer review showed 95.7-100%, the colonoscopy quality indicators were followings as adenoma
detection rate: 24.5% Cecal intubation rate: 99.1%, 95.2%, Colonoscope withdrawal average time: 13.28±10.62 minutes,
Bowel preparation quality (Boston Scale): 89.3% 95.7%), patient discharge from the recovery room, Average discharge
time post-procedure: With propofol alone: 30.92 minutes; With propofol and fentanyl combined: 31.52 minutes, The intermediate
risk was 0.28% by the TROOPS evaluation during procedural sedation.
Conclusion
The quality benchmark levels for these endoscopic units, as determined by a single-center study, can be
effectively implemented by benchmark endoscopy centers to enhance their quality and safety operations.
5.Genetic and risk factors of age-related macular degeneration
Ariunzaya A ; Chimedlkhamsuren G ; Bayarlakh B ; Suvd T ; Baasankhuu J ; Sarantuya J ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2024;210(4):18-25
Background:
Worldwide, the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 50 is age-related macular
degeneration (AMD), which is a complication of the exudative “wet” and dry type. AMD is a
multifactorial neurodegenerative disease relating with a combination of environmental and
genetic factors, and a contribution of age effect and smoking also, obesity was investigated
to be associated with the disease. Number of previous studies have shown that the
polymorphisms in the ARMS2, CFH and VEGF-A genes are associated with AMD. Therefore,
we investigated the associations between the five common vascular endothelial growth factor
(VEGF) polymorphisms and AMD with its therapeutic results.
Materials and Methods:
Totally 161 AMD patients and 223 controls were enrolled in this case-control study. A
prospective analysis of 66 eyes of 34 patients with neovascular AMD evaluated intravitreal
bevacizumab injections. The polymorphisms in CFH, ARMS2 and VEGF-А were detected
by using the methods of allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (ASPCR) and PCR based
restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Statistical analyses were performed by
SNPalyze software.
Results:
Results of the study showed that rs1061170, rs1065489, and rs800292 polymorphisms are
associated with arterial hypertension. Anti-coagulant intake rs1061170 polymorphism T/C,
C/C/C/C risk genotype (OR=5.04, 95% CI, 1.81-14.09, p=0.002, RERI=2.568, AP=0.509,
S=2.7302) , combined effect of G/C/C/C/ /G, G/A risk genotype (OR=6.52, 95% CI, 2.88
14.79, p<0.001, RERI=4.187, AP=0.642, S=4.136) are associated with increased risk of AMD. In the study, in 66 eyes of a total of 34 people who received intravitreous injection
treatment, the central retinal thickness before and after treatment was 294.59±83.52 before
treatment, 262.74±87.02 on the first day after treatment, 259.5±111.83 after one month,
248.98±84.96 after 3 months, and 262.69 after 6 months. ±110.59, after 1 year it decreased
to 259.19±112.29 (95% CI, 226.74-291.65), which is a statistically significant difference. A
comparative study of polymorphisms in therapeutic and non-therapeutic groups revealed
statistically significant differences in the G/G groups of rs2010963 polymorphisms. Also,
people with G/G genotype of rs2010963 polymorphism are more effective in treatment than
people with other genotypes.
Conclusion
Individual factors such as not wearing sunglasses and arterial hypertension and using anti
coagulant medication have been identified as risk factors for AMD. The result showed that
polymorphisms of ARMS2, CFH, VEGF genes can be a genetic risk factor for AMD. The
decreased in central retinal thickness and improving VA after anti-VEGF treatment confirm the
effectiveness of the treatment. Also, people with G/G genotype of rs2010963 polymorphism
are more effective in treatment than people with other genotypes. Identification of genetic
markers that affect clinical response may result in optimization of anti-VEGF therapy.
6.Trifocal intraocular lens implantation to treat visual demands in Mongolian patients
Narangarav G ; Tsendjargal G ; Davaa D ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2023;203(1):17-21
Introduction:
Intraocular lens (IOL) implants are monofocal and trifocal lenses which helps to clear up the vision after cataract surgery.
Goal:
In this work, we aimed to compare the monofocal and trifocal IOL implantation during phacoemulsification surgery.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted on 133 participants. Females comprised n=81, mean n=52 into equal groups. Preoperative and Postoperative cataract surgery UCVA and BCVA were measured and compared during the after 1 day, week 1, 2 weeks and month1.
Statistical analysis:
The results of the study were processed using the SPSS 25.0 program after coding the data and checking for typographical errors. The normality of the data distribution was tested by inspecting a histogram. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's test. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value lower than 0.05
Ethical statement:
The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (No.2021/05/21). All patients provided written informed consent before participating in this study.
Results:
The mean preoperative UCVA was 1.09±0.45D in monofocal IOL group, 0.99±0.49D in trifocal IOL group. At the first week: The mean postoperative UCVA at one week was 0.34±0.29D and 0.27±0.17D, in each group respectively. The mean postoperative BCVA in the first week was 0.28±0.27D and 0.20±0.15D in each group respectively. The mean postoperative UCVA at 1 month was 0.27±0.24D and 0.15±0.16D in each group, while BCVA was 0.26±24.94D and 0.06±0.63D.There was a highly significant statistical difference between the result of UCVA preoperative and the results of UCVA at the early and last postoperative follow up.
Conclusion
From our results, the best corrected visual acuity and was better for Trifocal group than Monofocal group. It is evident that post-operative near UCVA and BCVA was statistically significant at monofocal and trifocal groups.
7.The comparison of retinal findings in end stage of CKD and in diabetic renal failure
Altantsetseg A ; Uranchimeg D ; Batzorig B
Innovation 2021;14(1-Ophthalmology):14-17
Background:
Retinal pathologic features are associated with inflammatory processes and
endothelial dysfunction, leading to circulatory abnormalities and reduced vascular reactivity.
Both retinopathy and nephropathy involve thickening of basement membrane and muscular
layers and increased leakage. These pathologic and hemodynamic abnormalities may occur
throughout the body and their effects on the retinal vasculature may be useful indicators of
cumulative microvascular damage from hypertension, inflammation, diabetes mellitus, and other
processes. Type 2 MPGN is an uncommon renal condition associated with electron dense deposits
in the lamina densa of the glomerular basement membrane with C3 found in the capillary loops
and mesangium. The deposits in the basement membrane can lead to a breakdown of the
blood-retinal barrier by interfering with the RPE layer, and type 2 MPGN has been described in
association with central serous retinopathy.
Purpose:
To assess the retinal findings in end stage of Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetic
renal failure
Methods:
Data of diabetic renal failure (n=20, mean age 56.8±11.6), and end stage of CKD(n=83,
mean age 48.2± 11.6) were cross-sectional analyzed. Nonmydriatic fundus photographs of the
disc and macula in both eyes were obtained in all the subjects. The photographs were assessed
by ophthalmologist using the standard protocols. The following parameters were recorded:
BCVA, IOP, BP GFR, serum Creatinine, ophthalmic and fundus examination.
Results:
Greater severity of retinopathy was associated with DM. The presence of vascular
abnormalities usually associated with Diabetes Mellitus ( DM) and was not associated with lower
estimated glomerular filtration rate. All of patients with DM (n=20, 100%) ,they have Diabetic
retinopathy. We found sight direct relationship between retinal posterior pole deposit with CKD
patients. Some of patients who have end stage of CKD, (n=18, 11%) they have retinal deposit on
their posterior pole.
Conclusion
Our findings show ,In participants with end stage of CKD, there was no significant
severe retinopathy. In summary, our study demonstrates that DM, is one of the leading cause of
irreversible vision loss. Every patients with DM need the ophthalmic follow up examination in every
six months.
8.Findings of the assessment on social and the environmental accessibility for people with vision and hearing impairment
Batdulam T ; Chimedsuren O ; Uranchimeg D
Innovation 2021;14(1-Ophthalmology):32-35
Background:
According to the WHO, WB estimation, there are over 1 billion people living with some form of
disability in the world.2 Out of which, 284 million people have vision impairment, 360 million people have hearing and speech impairment, ten percent of them living in developing countries.3 According to the National Statistical Office’s 2018 data there are 105,730 people with disabilities in the country which is 3.2% of the total population.4 In Mongolia, 28% of the disabled population in the working age are employed while 43% of the population aged 6-18 are illiterate. People with vision, hearing and intellectual disabilities have the same right to access health, education, employment, social welfare and protection services as others, but due to the lack of access to facilities and public transport, they cannot fully access social services. Also, the legal framework that provides equal opportunities for social contacts is not enough. There is virtually no comprehensive study on access of social service and environmental accessibility for the disabled people in the country. Therefore, there is a need to study in detail of social services and environmental accessibility of the people with visual and hearing impairment and adapt their demands into policy and develop policy recommendations and to further improve legal regulations.
Purpose:
Main objective of the study is to assess social service delivery and environmental accessability of the
people with visual and hearing impairment
Methods:
The direct-observation, household based survey and document review, methods have been used
for this study. Direct observation method has been applied for 100 public constructions. Total of 100 disabled people, out of 50 people with visual impairment and 50 people with hearing impairment has been covered for the public transportation accessibility assessment questionnaire survey. Information and communication accessibility studies carried out among 100 organizational websites and 31 broadcasting internet television including Univision and Sky media.
Household survey covered 148 people with visual and hearing impairments to assess social service accessibility.
Results:
The public construction’s environmental accessibility for the people with vision impairment was
assessed at 48.8 percent: 36.8% for the people with poor vision impairment and very bad for blind people at only 16.5%. The public transportation accessibility assessed as not accessible (3.43 odds) for people with vision impairment and as moderate accepable for blind people (2.87 odds). Information and communication accessibility through website assessed at 25% for people with vision impairment which shows not sufficiently accessible for blind people (32%). Total accessibility of information regarding to the organizational website assessed at 34.8% which shows moderately accessible. Services of the Univision, Sky media internet TV (IPTV) wasn’t accessible for people with vision impairment. Regarding to the people with hearing impairment, public construction environmental accessibility assessed at 31.7%, 48.5% for people with moderate hearing impairment which is average accessibility and 21% people with severe hearing problem. The public transport accessibility assessed in high discrepancy (3.51 odds ratio) which means there is an in-sufficient access. Information and communication accessibility for people with hearing impairment assessed at 5% which shows very bad accessibility.
Health service coverage is 64% for the people with vision impairment while 36% for the people of hearing impairment. Education service coverage for vision impairment people is 36% and 18% to people with hearing impairment. Regarding to the accessibility to social service, the coverage is 33% for people with vision impairment and 31% for the people with hearing impairment. Employment rate among people with vision disability resulted in 19% and 24 % for the people with hearing imapirment.
Conclusion
The public constructions accessibility for people with vision and hearing impairment (37.7%),
public transport accessibility (2.90 odds ratio), information accessibility (34.8%) assessed at “moderately
accessible”. Assessment result of below 50% considered as “insufficient” for education service -27%, employment service-21.5%, social welfare services -32%. There is a need for special laws and regulations concerning to social services and environment accessibility.
9.Clinical features of ophthalmology in thyroid disease
Oyungerel B ; Erdenezul G ; Misheel B ; Uranchimeg D ; Chimedlkhamsuren G ; Nomin-Erdene M ; Sarantuya J
Innovation 2021;14(2-Ophthalmology):6-10
Background:
TED (thyroid eye disease) is an inflammatory disease of the orbit caused by
autoimmune diseases of the thyroid, which adversely affect the vision, appearance, and quality
of life. Exophthalmos and eyelid retraction are the main features of TED, which can lead to ocular
motility, diplopia, optic neuropathy, and permanent vision loss. The study aims to determine the
most common clinical signs of TED in Mongolians and define whether there is a correlation with
the levels of thyroid autoantibodies.
Methods:
The study involved 102 patients with TED and 81 patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy.
The clinical features of TED were identified and evaluated by activity score (CAS) and severity of
GO using the European Group of Graves’ Orbitopathy (EUGOGO).
Results:
The mean age of TED patients was 42.6±11.2, which was younger than GD patients
(P=0.012). The current smoker was 24 patients (23.5%) with TED, which is relatively higher than GD
(P=0.0001). The most common ocular signs were eyelid retraction 80 (78.4%), proptosis 77 (75.5%),
diplopia 14 (13.7%) and 4% vision loss. There were no differences in proptosis between the right (18
mm, median) and left eye (17.8 mm, median) (P>0.05). The mean CAS score was 3.09±1.72 and
varied depending on gender and smoking. According to EUGOGO, 62.7% of the patients were
moderately severe. Only 7 % of the patients were in the sight-threatening stage, presenting optic
neuropathy and corneal breakdown. The mean TSI level in patients with TED was 37.95 ± 35.41 IU
/ ml, which was 2.7 times higher than the mean in patients with GD.
Conclusions
Eyelid retraction and exophthalmos are the most common clinical signs of TED.
Early diagnosis of these features can prevent complications of the disease. Determining serum TSI
levels will help in the treatment and monitoring of TED.
10.VEGF-A and ARMS2 gene polymorphism on AMD susceptibility
Ariunzaya A ; Chimedlkhamsuren G ; Suvd T ; Sarantuya J ; Uranchimeg D ; Baasankhuu J
Innovation 2019;13(1-Ophthalmology):10-13
Background:
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition, that occurs
people aged above 50, leads to gradual loss of the vision because of a damage in the macula,
which is located in the center of the retina. Several polymorphisms in different genes have been
proposed as factors that increase the disease susceptibility. Therefore, we investigated the
association between rs833061 polymorphism of VEGF-A gene and rs10490924 polymorphism of
ARMS2 gene and AMD in order to analyze with other similar studies by meta analysis.
Purpose:
To investigate the polymorphisms of VEGF-A gene and ARMS2 gene on AMD susceptibility
Methods:
is case-control study was conducted on 74 AMD patients and 32 unaffected age-and gender-matched control individuals. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral
venous blood. The single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified by restriction fragment length
polymorphism (RFLP) method and results confirmed by gel electrophoresis. The REVIEW MANAGER
5.2 software and MetaXL was used for meta-analysis
Results:
We did not find statistically significant differences in С allele and СС genotype frequency
of rs833061 polymorphism of VEGF-A gene between patients and controls. However, analysis of
rs10490924 polymorphism of ARMS2 gene shows that T allele (OR=2.72, 95% CI, 1.47 – 5.02, p=0.001),
TT genotype (OR=4.54, 95% CI, 1.49 – 13.87,p=0.019) were significantly associated with AMD risk.
Haplotype analysis of these SNPs showed that C+T haplotype was statistically significantly different
(OR=5.23, 95% CI, 1.76-15.54, p=0.002) between patients and controls.
Conclusion
As shown by results, rs10490924 polymorphism of ARMS2 gene show that T allele,
TT genotype and C+T haplotype were significantly associated with AMD risk In meta-analysis, T
allele of rs10490924 polymorphism of ARMS2 gene was significantly associated with AMD risk in all
ethnicity that include Asian and Caucasian. However, T allele prevalence was higher in Asians.
Result Analysis
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