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Case Report: In Situ and Systemic Immune Response to Mucosal Leishmaniasis in an HIV-Infected Patient
Valdir Sabbaga Amato1,2, Lucas Augusto Moyses Franco1, Regina Maia de Souza1
1Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Laboratório de Parasitologia, São Paulo, Brazil.
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|December 18, 2023
Summary
This study details a case of mucosal leishmaniasis in an HIV-infected patient, revealing a mixed Th1/Th2 immune response with T cell activation and exhaustion. Understanding these immune profiles is crucial for managing co-infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- HIV/AIDS Research
Background:
- Mucosal leishmaniasis (ML) in HIV-infected patients presents unique immunological challenges.
- Limited data exists on the in situ and systemic immune responses in this patient population.
Observation:
- A case study of a recently diagnosed HIV-infected patient with progressive ML affecting the nasal septum.
- The patient presented with a low CD4 count (85 cells/mm3), nasal ulceration, crusting, and pruritus over two years.
Findings:
- Immune evaluations revealed a mixed T-helper 1/T-helper 2 (Th1/Th2) pattern.
- T cell activation, memory, and exhaustion assays indicated an activated and exhausted immune status.
Implications:
- This case highlights the complex immune dysregulation in HIV-associated ML.
- Further research into immune modulation strategies is warranted for effective treatment of co-infections in HIV patients.
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