Case report of HIV associated arthritis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Case Study

Background:

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection affects children globally, often presenting with early clinical symptoms.
• Musculoskeletal manifestations are a recognized, yet diverse, complication of pediatric HIV/AIDS.
• Arthritis can be a predominant, yet sometimes overlooked, presenting symptom in children with HIV.

Observation:

• A pediatric case of HIV infection presented with severe anemia (Hb: 2.6 g/dl) and significant inflammatory markers.
• Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP: 161 mg/l) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR: 46 mm/h) indicated systemic inflammation.
• Leukocytosis (12,100 cells/cu mm) and thrombocytosis (524,000 cells/ku mm) were noted alongside Enterococcus spp. in urine culture.

Findings:

• The case highlights arthritis as a primary manifestation in a child with HIV infection.
• Diagnostic workup included bone marrow aspiration and biopsy for comprehensive microbiological analysis.
• Laboratory findings revealed significant anemia and pronounced inflammatory responses.

Implications:

• Recognizing arthritic manifestations is crucial for prompt diagnosis in pediatric HIV.
• Effective management of arthritis in HIV-infected children presents unique therapeutic challenges.
• Early identification of HIV-associated arthritis can prevent diagnostic delays and optimize patient outcomes.