Cryptosporidiosis in HIV infected patients in Thailand

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P Moolasart1, B Eampokalap, M Ratanasrithong

  • 1Bamrasnaradura Infectious Disease Hospital, Nonthaburi, Thailand.

The Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health
|June 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Cryptosporidiosis is a common cause of chronic diarrhea and weight loss in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This study found Cryptosporidium in 8.8% of HIV-infected patients with diarrhea in Thailand.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Tropical Medicine
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Chronic diarrhea and weight loss are frequent in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
  • Cryptosporidium is a known cause of debilitating secretory diarrhea in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence, clinical features, and laboratory findings of cryptosporidiosis.
  • To investigate cryptosporidiosis in HIV-infected patients, including adults and children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study conducted over 6 years (1988-1993) at Bamrasnaradura Hospital, Thailand.
  • Stool specimens from 250 HIV-infected patients with diarrhea were analyzed for Cryptosporidium.
  • Prevalence, clinical symptoms, and fecal leukocyte presence were documented.

Main Results:

  • Cryptosporidium was detected in 22 (8.8%) of the patients.
  • Prevalence was higher in children (19%) than adults (7.9%).
  • Common symptoms included chronic watery diarrhea (84.6%) and weight loss/malnutrition (100%). Fecal leukocytes were infrequent (15.4%).

Conclusions:

  • Cryptosporidiosis is a significant cause of diarrhea in HIV-infected individuals in Thailand.
  • Early detection and management of cryptosporidiosis are crucial for improving outcomes in HIV patients.
  • Further research into effective treatments for cryptosporidiosis in immunocompromised populations is warranted.

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