Haematological abnormalities associated with paediatric HIV/AIDS in Lagos

Authors: Adetifa, I. M. O.; Temiye, E. O.; Akinsulie, A. O.; Ezeaka, V. C.; Iroha, E. O.

Source: Annals of Tropical Paediatrics: International Child Health, Volume 26, Number 2, June 2006 , pp. 121-125(5)

Publisher: Maney Publishing

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Abstract:

Introduction: In HIV-1-infected children, haematological disturbances include bone marrow abnormalities and peripheral cytopenias. All three major cell lineages can be depressed.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of baseline haematological parameters was undertaken in 68 children with confirmed HIV infection. In all cases, a complete blood count was done and some had CD4+ counts and HIV RNA PCR. The CD4+ count was analysed by the Coulter manual latex particle monoclonal antibody method^� and HIV RNA PCR by Roche^� Amplicor Monitor, version 1.5.

Results: Anaemia (<100 g/L) was present in 77.9%, severe (<60 g/L) in 5.9%, moderate (60–70 g/L) in 32.3% and mild (80–99 g/L) in 39.7%. The mean haemoglobin concentration decreased as disease progressed (p<0.05); 6% had leucopenia, 17.5% had neutropenia and 2.5% (one case) had thrombocytopenia; also, the four (6%) subjects with leucopenia were in clinical stages B and C. Neutropenia, lymphocytopenia and thrombocytopenia were seen more in clinical stages B and C, though this relationship was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Both the erythroid and other cells lines are affected by HIV/AIDS and other associated factors. Anaemia is the most common haematological abnormality. The severity of peripheral cytopenias is related to the disease burden.

Document Type: Research Article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1179/146532806X107467

Affiliations: Department of Paediatrics, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria

Publication date: 2006-06-01

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