ABSTRACT
Introduction: Giant Hydronephrosis (GH) is characterised by an extensive collection of urine in the kidney due to ureteral obstruction, often exceeding one litre or a kidney weighing more than 1.6% of total body weight. It is commonly seen in under-resourced areas and is usually caused by congenital Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction. Symptoms include abdominal distention, flank pain, dyspnoea, constipation, fever, and sepsis. Progressive renal damage can occur due to increased intrapelvic pressure. Case Report: A 17-year-old male from a rural area presented with a massive abdominal distention that had been growing since birth. The patient had limited access to medical care, leading to the condition being neglected for years. Upon examination, the abdomen was enlarged but not tender, and vital signs were normal. Laboratory tests and imaging revealed a massive fluid-filled mass, suspected to be GH. Surgery confirmed a hydronephrotic cavity due to a PUJ obstruction. The patient underwent a left nephroureterectomy and was discharged after an uneventful recovery. Discussion: Congenital anomalies of the genitourinary tract (CAKUT) are a significant part of paediatric surgical cases worldwide. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible renal damage. In under-resourced areas, a lack of awareness and constrained access to medical care can delay diagnosis and treatment. Conclusions: The reported case is notable for the large volume of urine retained in GH and the minimal symptoms, which delayed medical attention. A high index of suspicion is required for CAKUT in young patients. Early surgical management is recommended to preserve renal function.

ABSTRACT
Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health challenge, with Indonesia ranking second in TB burden. In East Nusa Tenggara, TB case detection and treatment coverage remains below national targets. A secondary analysis was conducted using cross-sectional data from the 2025 Tuberculosis Information System (SITB), including TB notifications, treatment outcomes for drug-sensitive (DS) and drug-resistant (DR) TB, and population-based case characteristics. Drug-sensitive TB treatment achieved high success in several districts, while drug-resistant TB outcomes were lower due to mortality and treatment discontinuation. TB notifications remain suboptimal, influenced by environmental factors such as poor household ventilation and uneven distribution and activity of health cadres. Strengthening human resources and ensuring active, village-level cadre engagement are essential for improving TB case detection and treatment outcomes. Mapping epidemiological patterns can guide targeted interventions and support policy development to enhance TB control in East Nusa Tenggara.

ABSTRACT
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. In addition to hepatic damage, HBV disrupts haematopoiesis, iron metabolism, and immune regulation, resulting in altered haematological and inflammatory profiles. Understanding these changes may improve disease monitoring and patient management. Objective: This study evaluated the serological status of HBV and the associated variations in haematological parameters, serum ferritin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) among individuals in Abakaliki metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,000 adults recruited from selected healthcare facilities in Abakaliki. Venous blood samples (6 mL) were collected and separated into EDTA and plain tubes for haematological and biochemical analyses. HBV screening was carried out using a rapid diagnostic test, and serological markers were determined using ELISA. Haematological parameters were analysed using an automated analyzer, while ferritin and IL-6 were measured using ELISA and fluorescence immunoassay methods, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Active HBV infection occurred in 7.5% of participants, while 30.8% had inactive infection, 27.5% were vaccinated, and 16.7% were uninfected. Significant variations were observed in RBC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, TWBC, and platelet count across the groups (p < 0.05). The active infection group showed the lowest RBC and platelet counts but the highest TWBC and IL-6 levels. Ferritin was lowest in active cases and highest in vaccinated individuals. Gender analysis revealed similar trends in males and females, though lymphocyte and monocyte counts were significantly higher in males with active infection. Conclusion: HBV infection significantly alters haematological indices and inflammatory markers, particularly in individuals with active disease. Routine m