REVIEW OF THE PATTERN OF ENDOCRINE ADMISSIONS AT THE EMERGENCY UNIT OF A TERTIARY HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: The medical emergency unit serves as the initial point of contact for individuals with acute medical conditions, including communicable and non-communicable diseases. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for a significant proportion of global deaths, with a paradigm shift from communicable to NCDs. Understanding the patterns of medical admissions, particularly those related to endocrine disorders, is crucial for efficient healthcare delivery.

Methodology: This retrospective study was conducted at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Nigeria, focusing on endocrine-related admissions from January to December 2019. Data were collected from medical emergency records, including patient age, sex, and endocrine indication for admission. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

Results: The study included 126 endocrine-related admissions, with an average patient age of 59.5 years. More than 60% of patients were aged 60 or older, and females accounted for 57.9% of admissions. Hyperglycaemia, hypoglycaemia, and diabetes mellitus foot syndrome were the primary indications for admission. Diabetes-related emergencies, particularly hyperglycaemic emergencies, were the most common presentations. Older age groups were more commonly affected, possibly due to associated risk factors. Thyrotoxicosis presents less frequently.

Conclusion: Hyperglycaemic emergencies, notably related to diabetes, were the predominant cause of endocrine-related admissions in the medical emergency unit. This study highlights the importance of effective planning, delivery, and implementation of healthcare services to manage hyperglycaemic emergencies and other endocrine-related conditions in emergency settings. The findings underscore the need for guidelines tailored to the management of these conditions and call for further research to enhance health planning and emergency service delivery.