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Published on: September 5, 2017
Prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection in children with tuberculosis
T Shahab1, M S Zoha, M Ashraf Malik
1Department of Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, UP 202 002, India.
Insights
This study found a 2% prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seropositivity in children with tuberculosis. Regular HIV screening is suggested for children with disseminated tuberculosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health issue, particularly in children.
- Co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can complicate TB diagnosis and management.
- Estimating the prevalence of HIV in pediatric TB cases is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of HIV seropositivity among children diagnosed with tuberculosis.
- To investigate the characteristics of HIV-positive children with TB.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study screened 250 children under 12 years with diagnosed TB for HIV infection.
- HIV diagnosis was confirmed using two consecutive positive ELISA tests and a supplemental western blot.
- Parents of HIV-positive children were also screened for HIV and TB.
Main Results:
- Five cases (2%) of HIV seropositivity were identified among the 250 children with TB.
- All five HIV-positive children had disseminated tuberculosis.
- Parental screening data was also collected.
Conclusions:
- A 2% prevalence of HIV co-infection was found in children with tuberculosis.
- Disseminated tuberculosis in children warrants regular screening for HIV.
- Early detection of HIV in pediatric TB cases can improve outcomes.
Abstract:
This prospective study was carried out in the pediatric ward and outpatient department of a tertiary care centre to estimate the prevalence of HIV seropositivity in children with tuberculosis. Two hundred and fifty consecutive children below 12 years of age with (pulmonary and extrapulmonary) tuberculosis diagnosed between March 1999 and July 2000 were screened for HIV infection. A patient was labeled as HIV positive if two consecutive ELISA tests were found positive using different antigen/principle. Supplemental western blot test was also done. Parents of seropositive children were also screened for HIV infection and tuberculosis. Total 5 cases were HIV positive giving a seroprevalence of 2%. All the five patients had disseminated tuberculosis. We suggest regular screening of children with disseminated/miliary tuberculosis for HIV co-infection.
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