HIV AND TUBERCULOSIS CO-INFECTION IN A REFERRAL CHEST HOSPITAL
V K Kataria1, D Rosha2, K K Maudar3
1Classified Specialist in Pathology (Microbiology), Military Hospital, Namkum, Ranchi-834 010.
Insights
Tuberculosis patients in the Armed Forces were screened for HIV, revealing a 1.06% co-infection rate. This study highlights lower HIV prevalence alongside tuberculosis in military personnel compared to the general population.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) co-infection presents significant global health challenges.
- Understanding the prevalence of TB/HIV co-infection in specific populations, such as military personnel, is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the co-infection rate of tuberculosis and HIV among serving personnel of the Armed Forces.
- To compare the seroprevalence of HIV in tuberculosis patients within the Armed Forces to that of the civil population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of Armed Forces personnel admitted with tuberculosis between April 1996 and 1999 was assessed.
- Initial HIV testing was performed using spot kits, with positive results confirmed by ELISA on two separate samples.
- Data on patient demographics, risk factors (alcohol, smoking, sexual history), and sputum smear results were collected.
Main Results:
- Out of 1.06% of tuberculosis patients, 60 individuals were found to be HIV positive.
- The majority of co-infected individuals (80%) were in the sexually active age group.
- Alcohol and smoking were associated with 80% of cases, and 46.7% reported exposure to sex workers.
Conclusions:
- The seroprevalence of HIV in association with tuberculosis is lower in the Armed Forces compared to the civil population.
- Findings underscore the importance of screening for HIV in military tuberculosis patients, considering associated risk factors.
Abstract:
Serving personnel of Armed Forces admitted with tuberculosis between Apr 1996-1999 were evaluated for co-infection of tuberculosis and HIV. Sixty (1.06%) of tuberculosis patients were found to be HIV positive. Initial test was done by spot kits and subsequently confirmed by ELISA on two different samples. Majority of the cases were in sexually active age group 48 (80%). Alcohol and smoking was associated in 80% cases. Thirty six (60%) were sputum smear positive for AFB. Twenty eight (46.7%) gave history of exposure to sex workers. Family members were not available for study. Sero prevalence of HIV in association with tuberculosis is less in Armed Forces compared to civil population.
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