4. Effect of HIV on Haematological Parameters of People Living with HIV/AIDS attending UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
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Abstract
Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a critical health issue that significantly impacts the haematological parameters of infected individuals, leading to various complications. Objectives: The study investigated the effects of HIV on the haematological parameters of patients who have tested positive at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital (UTH), Osogbo. It aimed to evaluate the differences in haematological parameters between these groups and understand the relationship between the severity of HIV infection, the impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the risk of haematological complications. Methodology: A total of 115 subjects were grouped into two: 95 subjects who were HIV-positive and 20 HIV-negative control patients. The blood sample was obtained and tested for a variety of haematological parameters like White blood cell count (WBC), Packed cell volume (PCV), Red blood cell count (RBC), Mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and Hemoglobin (HGB) using the haematological autoanalyser. The data obtained were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. A p-value of 0.05 indicated a significant difference in the haematological parameters between the two groups. Results: The findings indicate that HIV-positive patients exhibit significant abnormalities in several haematological parameters. A notable decrease in platelet counts and neutrophil levels was observed in the HIV-positive group, suggesting an increased risk of thrombocytopenia and immunosuppression. Other parameters, such as Lymphocyte and red blood cell counts, did not show significant differences, indicating that some haematological parameters remain unaffected by HIV. Conclusion/Recommendations: The study concludes that while some haematological parameters are significantly altered in HIV-positive patients, others remain stable, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and targeted interventions to manage haematological complications in HIV patients. Further research with larger sample sizes and comprehensive data on ART history and comorbidities is recommended to understand these relationships better and improve patient outcomes.