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Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
Published on: July 24, 2013
Human immunodeficiency virus in institutionalized elderly people
Milton Luiz Gorzoni1, Sueli Luciano Pires2, Lilian de Fátima Costa Faria3
1MD, PhD. Associate Professor, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP), and Head of Area III of the Department of Internal Medicine and Coordinator of the Geriatrics Sector, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Four HIV-positive men were identified in a long-term care institution (LTCI) for the elderly. These individuals were diagnosed through serological screening and are treatable with antiretroviral drugs.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited research exists on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive individuals residing in long-term care institutions (LTCIs).
- This study addresses the gap by investigating the prevalence of HIV in an LTCI for the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence and characteristics of HIV-positive individuals within a long-term care facility for the elderly.
- To inform healthcare practices regarding HIV management in institutionalized elderly populations.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted at a 405-bed LTCI.
- Medical records of 405 residents tested for HIV were analyzed for demographics, diagnoses, co-infections, medications, and CD4 counts.
Main Results:
- Four HIV-positive male residents were identified (mean age 71.2 years).
- Common co-infections included syphilis and hepatitis B/C. Stroke sequelae and dementia were prevalent diagnoses.
- Antiretroviral therapy and other medications were administered; estimated CD4 count was 341/mm³.
Conclusions:
- HIV-positive individuals are present in LTCIs for the elderly.
- Diagnosis is feasible through serological screening.
- Treatment with antiretroviral drugs is an established option for these individuals.
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