Immunosuppression and GB virus C-RNA detection among HIV-infected patients in Cambodia

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs are crucial for managing HIV infection.
• GB virus C (GBV-C) is a common human virus with complex interactions with HIV.
• Understanding coinfections in HIV patients is vital for effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of GBV-C RNA in HIV-infected patients starting ART in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
• To investigate factors associated with GBV-C RNA detection in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 213 patients initiating ART.
• GBV-C RNA was detected using molecular assays.
• Multivariate analysis was employed to identify independent predictors of GBV-C RNA detection.

Main Results:

• GBV-C RNA was detected in 35 (16.4%) of the 213 patients.
• A significant negative association was observed between GBV-C RNA detection and CD4 cell counts < 100 cells/microl.
• Low CD4 cell counts, active tuberculosis, anemia, and use of traditional medicine were independently associated with lower GBV-C RNA detection rates.

Conclusions:

• GBV-C infection is prevalent in HIV-infected individuals in Cambodia.
• Factors such as advanced immunosuppression (low CD4 counts), comorbidities like tuberculosis and anemia, and traditional medicine use influence GBV-C RNA detection.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the clinical significance of GBV-C in HIV-coinfected patients.