Prevalence of Asymptomatic Microalbuminuria in HIV Positive Children in India
Gorav Sharma1, Sheila S Mathai2
1Department of Pediatrics, Armed Forces Medical College, Wanowrie PO, Pune, Maharashtra, 411040, India.
Insights
Twenty percent of children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) showed microalbuminuria, indicating early kidney issues. Regular screening is recommended for these asymptomatic children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection can lead to various complications, including renal involvement.
- Early detection of kidney dysfunction in HIV-positive children is crucial for timely intervention.
- Covert or early renal disease may present without overt symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of early renal abnormalities in HIV-positive children.
- To assess the incidence of microalbuminuria and other signs of glomerular and tubular dysfunction.
- To identify potential risk factors or associations with renal involvement.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 250 HIV-positive children aged 2-18 years.
- Participants were evaluated for microalbuminuria, glomerular, and tubular dysfunction.
- Data collection occurred between January 2014 and June 2015 at a tertiary care hospital.
Main Results:
- Microalbuminuria was detected in 51 out of 250 (20%) children.
- No other evidence of renal dysfunction was observed in the study population.
- The incidence of microalbuminuria was similar in children on (20%) and not on (21%) Anti Retroviral Therapy (ART).
- Children with microalbuminuria had significantly lower overall CD4 counts.
Conclusions:
- Microalbuminuria is a significant finding in 20% of asymptomatic HIV-positive children.
- This suggests early-stage glomerular dysfunction in this population.
- Regular renal screening and follow-up are essential for HIV-positive children.
Objective:
To study the prevalence of covert or early renal involvement among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive children.
Methods:
A cross-sectional observational study was carried out on 250 HIV positive children (2-18 y) on follow-up in a tertiary care hospital from January 2014 through June 2015. Those who met the study criteria were evaluated for microalbuminuria and glomerular and tubular dysfunctions.
Results:
Fifty-one out of two hundred fifty (20%) children were found to have microalbuminuria though none had any other evidence of renal dysfunction. The incidence of microalbuminuria in children on Anti Retroviral Therapy (ART) and those not on ART was 20% and 21% respectively. Neither was there any difference in those with a CD4 count ≤500/cu mm compared with those with counts >500/cu mm. However, the overall CD4 counts were significantly lower in children with microalbuminuria.
Conclusions:
Microalbuminuria was detected in 20% of asymptomatic HIV positive children suggesting early glomerular dysfunction and need for regular screening and follow-up.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction


