Lower Genital Tract Infections in HIV-Infected Women: Can We Afford to Miss?

Abstract

Objectives: To study prevalence of lower genital tract infections (LGTI) (bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and candidiasis) in HIV-seropositive women and correlation with CD4 counts and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted in 200 HIV-1-seropositive women (18 to 45 years) attending ART clinic of PGIMS, Rohtak. Vaginal samples sent for laboratory diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and candidiasis, CD4 count determined and data analyzed using Chi-square method. Results: Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, and trichomoniasis was 47.7, 43.2, and 8.8 % respectively, 30 % women with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl had LGTI, and 17.4 % women with CD4 >200 Cell/μl had LGTI. Of 70 women not on ART, 18.6 % had LGTI and 30 of 130 on ART had LGTI. Conclusions: HIV-seropositive women had higher prevalence of LGTI especially at lower CD4 counts and women on ART did not have a lower prevalence of LGTI and should be screened for LGTI to decrease HIV transmission.