Prevalence of HIV in tuberculous patients presenting to TB clinic of a Divisional Headquarters Hospital

Abstract

Background: Although the vast majority of patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection and tuberculosis live in the developing countries but co-infection is a threat around the world. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of HIV in tuberculous patients in our set-up.

Methods: This observational study was conducted at DHQ Hospital Kohat, from January 2008 to July 2010. All tuberculous patients presenting at Tuberculosis Centre were screened for HIV with rapid test. All positive cases were further tested on ELISA. These patients were registered at ARV Centre Kohat and their CD4 count was performed and treatment for tuberculosis/HIV was monitored.

Results: During the study period, out of 1262 patients with tuberculosis were reported. Of these 679 (53.8%) were females while 583 (46.2%) males. Among these 9(0.7%) were HIV positive. Of HIV positive patients 7 were males and 2 females.

Conclusion: Testing tuberculous patients for HIV allows early diagnosis and timely HIV treatment. Joint effort of National AIDS Control Program and National TB Control Program is a matter of great urgency at basic health levels to control the co-infections.