Epidemiologic pattern of meningococcal meningitis in northern Cameroon in 2007-2010: contribution of PCR-enhanced surveillance.

Objectives: Monitoring acute bacterial meningitis in northern Cameroon.

Methods: Health professionals collected cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens from patients presenting with clinical symptoms of meningitis. Specimens were tested using gram stain, latex agglutination test, and culture.

[Aetiologic factors and clinical features associated with thrombocytopenia in Cameroonese adults: the importance of Plasmodium falciparum malaria].

In order to determine the main aetiologies associated with thrombocytopenia in a hospital setting of Cameroon, 180 adults with platelet counts <100x10(9)/L were examined and screened for a full blood count, thick and thin blood films, basic coagulation tests (activated partial thromboplastine time, a one-stage Quick's prothrombin time and a bleeding time), an HIV screening test as well as a bone marrow aspirate using standard methods. Other tests were selectively done as dictated by the suspected diagnosis. The major clinical findings among 180 cases included fever >37.