Clinical and Laboratory Observation of Brucellosis: Ardahan

Abstract

Brucellosis is a major public health problem due to its non-specific symptoms and variable clinic. It was aimed to evaluate the clinical case of 11 infected individuals who were diagnosed with brucellosis and admitted to the hospital in the Eastern Anatolia Region (Ardahan Province), where this zoonotic infection is endemic. This is a retrospective study of patients admitted to Ardahan Göle State Hospital whose medical records and clinical findings were reviewed until October 2023 (Approval of Ardahan University Scientific Research and Publication Ethics Committee (Protocol No: 2022-2ÖNP-0115, Approval Date: 04.01.2023- Number: E-67796128-000-2200042053). The data included in the study were obtained from 64% women and 36% men. Analyses showed a significant decrease in hct, albumin and hemoglobin levels (p<0.001; p<0.05; p<0.01, respectively). In addition, statistically significant increases were found in wbc, crp and total Bilirubin levels (respectively, p<0.01; p<0.001; p<0.01). The clinical symptoms of this infection, which can affect any organ and system, may vary. Therefore, monitoring of variable findings, especially in endemic regions, should bring brucellosis to mind. Although there is no culture in the diagnosis, the need for serological tests is important.