International Journal of Medical Science and Dental Research

Current Issue Volume 8 Issue 3 (May-June 2025)

    • Malignant Transformation of Ovarian Dermoid-A Case Report
      Abstract: Mature cystic teratomas, also called dermoids, typically make up about 20% of growths on the ovaries. These benign germ cell tumors consist of at least two of the three layers that form in early development (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm).1 In many instances, dermoids don't cause any symptoms and are found incidentally. However, they can lead to symptoms if they become large and press on nearby tissues. A serious complication that can arise from mature cystic teratomas is the development of cancer, which occurs in up to 2% of cases, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common type (80%).2 This case report will examine an instance where an ovarian dermoid transformed into a malignancy, along with potential treatment approaches.



        • Measuring the Self-Efficacy about Self-Care among Students at Baghdad University Campus
          Abstract:: This descriptive study, aiming to assess self-efficacy in self-care, was conducted at the University of Baghdad, specifically targeting students at the College of Nursing and the College of Education/Ibn-Rushed. Data was collected from a non-probability (purposive) sample of 255 students between February 19th and March 27th, 2025, using a 10-item self-care self-efficacy scale administered through interviews. The study period spanned from December 30th, 2024, to May 21st, 2025. Descriptive statistical analysis procedures (frequencies, percentages) and the mean of score were used in analyzing data using the SPSS version 16.
          The results of the study:: Showed that the study findings indicate that the students generally demonstrated a moderate level of self-efficacy in their ability to practice self-care. Specifically, a large majority (68.2%) expressed being somewhat confident, while nearly a third (31.4%) reported being extremely confident in their self-care capabilities.
          Conclusions:: Self-efficacy regarding self-care, the students generally showed a moderate level. Most students felt somewhat confident in their self-care abilities, while a substantial portion reported being extremely confident. The authors recommend addressing the moderate self-care efficacy observed among Baghdad University students, particularly the predominantly female and first-year cohorts, targeted self-care programs are recommended. Furthermore, integrating self-care education into the curriculum, especially within the IbnRushed College of Education, could normalize and emphasize its importance. Finally, further research is needed to understand the factors influencing these moderate levels and to explore variations across colleges and income levels for more tailored interventions.


          Keywords: Self-efficacy, Students’ Self-care, Baghdad University Campus



            • Probiotic Gel (Lactobacillus Rhamnosus) as Local Drug Delivery in the Management of Chronic Periodontitis
              Abstract:
              Introduction:: Periodontitisis a polymicrobial and multifactorial infection affecting the tooth supporting structures. There are increasing number of researchers seeking alternatives to antibiotics due to resistance and emergence of new pathogenic strains. Natural polymeric biomaterials have shown promising results in periodontics. Therefore, this study evaluates the effects of 1% (w/v) probiotic lactobacillus rhamnosus gel as an active agent, on periodontal indices and periodontopathogens, Porphyromonasgingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, adjunctive to scaling and root planning (SRP) in comparison to SRP alone. Materials and Methods::Thirty patients with chronic periodontitis were included and categorized into Control group: SRP alone, and Test group: SRP along with probiotic lactobacillus rhamnosus gel. Clinical parameters like PI, GI, GBI, PPD and CAL were assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Subgingival plaque samples were collected at baseline and 1 month to assess periodontopathogens. GCF samples were collected at baseline and 1 month to assess MMP8 values. Results::Statistically significant improvement occurred in clinical parameters in test group at 6 months compared to baseline. Statistically significant reduction in the mean CFU counts of the periodontopathogens was seen within the groups. Statistically significant reduction in MMP8 values were also seen between the groups. Conclusion::Probiotic lactobacillus rhamnosus gel as a local drug delivery can be used in the non-surgical treatment of chronic periodontitis.


              Keywords: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, local drug delivery, periodontitis, probiotic, scaling