A Cross-Sectional Study of Audiological Assessment in HIV Positive Children

Hearing loss is a significant but often under-recognized complication in pediatric HIV-positive patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and types of hearing loss, their correlation with CD4 + counts, and the potential impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in this population. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 50 pediatric HIV-positive patients aged 5-17 years attending a tertiary care hospital. Audiological assessments included Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA), Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAE), and Impedance Audiometry. Data were analyzed to determine the prevalence and type of hearing loss, and correlations with CD4 + counts and ART regimens were explored. Hearing loss was identified in 21% of the ears examined (n = 14), predominantly sensorineural in nature (76.2%). Mild impairment hearing loss (26-40 dB) was the most common, affecting 80.95% of the ears. A significant association was found between lower CD4 + counts and the presence of hearing loss (333.62 ± 111.47 cells/mm³ compared to 671.75 ± 340.85 cells/mm³ in those without hearing loss, p = 0.001). There was no significant association of hearing loss with ART regime. Hearing loss as a morbidity was seen in 21% ears. A significant association was seen between hearing loss and lower CD4 + counts in pediatric HIV-positive patients, emphasizing the need for regular audiological monitoring.