Abstrakt

Are physicians suspicious enough? Assessing knowledge level in diagnosing multiple myeloma in Nigeria.

Olanrewaju Osho P1, Osho E2, Maltida O1, Okunnuga N3, Alabi B1, Oni O1*

Multiple myeloma (Kahler’s disease) is a hematological disorder resulting from proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow characterized by hypercalcaemia, bone lesion, renal impairment, and anaemia which causes a monoclonal protein-secreting disorder called paraproteinemias. Globally, it is commoner in blacks than in Caucasians and Asians although Africans show a lower incidence rate. It is a disease of the elderly with a median age incidence of 65 years in Western countries and 58 years in Nigeria. The male to female ratio is 2-3:1. Objectives: This study was carried out to assess the extent of knowledge of physicians with regards to multiple myeloma. Our research also explored the state of multiple myeloma diagnosis across health care facilities in Ondo State, outlining the challenges resulting from lack of knowledge and proposing possible solutions. Methodology: The research was conducted among physicians working across Ondo State. This was a specific and direct study of physicians and specialists working at the health facilities using a semi- structured questionnaire. SPSS version 23 was used for statistical analysis and chi square was used to check the significant association in the study with p-value <0.05 being significant. Results: A total of 205 doctors were involved. There was a general poor knowledge of the disorder although the specialists had a better understanding. Bone pain and anemia are the major clinical features seen in their patients with multiple myeloma. Significant association exists between area of specialty, years of experience and knowledge of physicians in the studied population. Conclusion: There’s poor knowledge which was influenced by years of experience, area of specialty and lack of retraining programmers among other factors. To aid early referral, we recommend that physicians have a high index of suspicion. In patients with multiple myeloma, newer treatment options should be considered.