Spectrum of Endoscopic Findings in Nigerians with Dyspepsia

Abstract

Background: Dyspepsia is a common gastrointestinal disorder originating from the gastroduodenal region, and is the most common indication for upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy. There are differing information on the commonest endoscopic findings in patients with dyspepsia from Nigeria.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the spectrum of endoscopic findings in patients with dyspepsia.
Patients and Methods: This is a hospital-based prospective study carried out at the Endoscopy Unit of Federal Medical Centre, Yola from November, 2006 to May, 2010. Patients with clinical features of dyspepsia who underwent upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy as part of their workup were recruited. Their biodata, history and duration of dyspepsia were noted on a proforma. The spectrum of endoscopic findings was also noted.
Results: A total of 259 patients with dyspepsia had upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy. Ninety-nine (38.2%) were males while 160 (61.8%) were females, giving a male to female ratio of 1:1.6. Clinically significant endoscopic findings were seen in 241(93.1%) patients while gastroduodenitis was the commonest finding. One hundred and two (39.4%) patients had two endoscopic findings, and 7(2.7%) had three findings.
Conclusion: Majority of patients with dyspepsia had clinically significant endoscopic findings. Gastroduodenitis was the commonest endoscopic finding.

Keywords: Spectrum, Endoscopy, Dyspepsia, Gastroduodenitis, Nigerians