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Cryptococcus neoformans seropositivity and some haematological parameters in HIV seropositive subjects
Rebecca C Chukwuanukwu1, Nkemjika Uchenna2, Smart I Mbagwu3
1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nigeria.
Background:
Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes meningitis worldwide and may be fatal in immunocompromised subjects. In Nigeria, cases have been reported with prevalence between 4 and 13.1% in Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients depending on the study subjects. This study was designed to assess the prevalence of cryptococcosis, CD4+T cell counts and possible effect on haematological parameters in HIV seropositive subject in Nnewi, South-Eastern Nigeria.
Method:
A total of four hundred and twenty-nine (429) subjects were recruited for the study. Of these, two hundred and ninety (290) were HIV positive and one hundred and thirty-nine (139) were HIV seronegative subjects recruited from the voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) unit and HIV care clinic at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria. Their ages were between 18-80 years. One hundred and thirty nine (139) apparently healthy HIV seronegative subjects were recruited as controls. Blood samples were taken for C. neoformans by Antigen lateral flow assay (CrAgLFA), HIV testing, CD4+T cell, platelet and Full blood count (FBC).
Results:
Our results show that of the two hundred and ninety (290) who were HIV positive subjects investigated for cryptococcosis, 4 (1.4%) tested positive for CrAg of whom 1(25%) were male and 3(75%) were female. All those with cryptococcosis had their CD4 count below 200 cells/μL, three of them were on ART and one was not. There were significant differences in the CD4 counts (P<0.05) between those infected and not infected with C. neoformans. None of the control group tested positive to cryptococcosis.
Conclusion:
Widespread use of anti-retroviral therapy may have reduced C. neoformans infection. However, the threat remains and there may be a possibility that women may be a more vulnerable population.
Insights
Cryptococcosis remains a threat in HIV patients in Nigeria, with a 1.4% prevalence observed. Women with cryptococcosis had significantly lower CD4 counts, indicating higher vulnerability.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen causing meningitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Prevalence of cryptococcosis in Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients in Nigeria ranges from 4-13.1%.
- This study investigated cryptococcosis, CD4+ T cell counts, and hematological parameters in HIV-positive individuals in Nnewi, Nigeria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of cryptococcosis among HIV-positive individuals in Nnewi, South-Eastern Nigeria.
- To assess CD4+ T cell counts and their correlation with cryptococcal infection.
- To evaluate the impact of cryptococcosis on hematological parameters in HIV-positive patients.
Main Methods:
- A total of 429 subjects (290 HIV-positive, 139 HIV-negative controls) were recruited.
- Cryptococcal Antigen Lateral Flow Assay (CrAgLFA) was used to detect C. neoformans.
- CD4+ T cell counts, platelet counts, and Full Blood Count (FBC) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- A prevalence of 1.4% (4 out of 290) for cryptococcosis was found in HIV-positive subjects.
- All individuals with cryptococcosis had CD4 counts below 200 cells/μL.
- Significant differences in CD4 counts were observed between infected and non-infected individuals (P<0.05).
Conclusions:
- While widespread anti-retroviral therapy (ART) may reduce C. neoformans infections, the threat persists.
- Women may represent a more vulnerable population to cryptococcosis.
- Monitoring CD4+ T cell counts remains crucial for managing cryptococcosis in HIV patients.
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