TB/HIV co infection in Georgia

HIV and TB co-infection is a considerable problem worldwide. HIV significantly increases the morbidity and mortality from TB and often makes the diagnosis more challenging. In this study we attempted to evaluate the prevalence of TB among newly diagnosed HIV infected persons and determine the rate of HIV infection among active TB patients in Georgia. The prospective observational study has been conducted in Georgia since January 01, 2006. All newly diagnosed HIV positive persons were screened for active and latent TB infection and the prevalence of TB was identified. During the same time period HIV screening was performed in all identified active TB cases. Up to 22% (16.7 to 22%) of HIV positive individuals were found to have active TB, and 22.4 to 32.6% had LTBI. The prevalence of HIV among TB patents ranged from 1.7 to 2.2%. The study showed significant prevalence of TB (both active and latent TB) among HIV patients. Because of problems with TB diagnosis in HIV patients, the real prevalence may be underestimated. The alarming statistical data should force us towards meticulous and scrupulous screening for tuberculosis among HIV positive individuals. The prevalence of HIV among TB patents was not very high, ranging from 1.7 to 2.2%, but we recommend routine screening for HIV in all active TB patients.