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Nutritional Status, Serum Proteins, and Some Trace Elements in HIV Drug-Naive Patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Michael Chukwuemeka Ugwu 1* M.Sc., Innocent Ikechi Ogbu 1 Ph.D., Nancy Amalachukwu Mbachu 2 Ph.D., Perekeme Frank Kendabie 3 SBMS., Ozoemena Christian Ike 4 M.Sc.
Number of views: 66
Background and Aims: This cross-sectional study examined the nutritional status,
serum proteins, and some trace elements in human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV)
drug-naive patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy.
Material and Methods: Twenty-five drug-naive subjects, 25 subjects on highly
active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and 20 control subjects aged 21 to 65 years
were conveniently recruited. Serum total protein, albumin, and hemoglobin were
assayed spectrophotometrically. In contrast, iron, copper, zinc, and selenium were
assayed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. CD4 count was done by Flow
Cytometry. Then, the nutritional assessment was performed using a subjective global
assessment questionnaire.
Results: Weight, body mass index, and mid-upper arm circumference were
significantly lower (p = 0.000) in the drug-naive HIV subjects than in subjects on
HAART and control. Serum total protein and copper were significantly higher (p =
0.000) in drug-naive HIV subjects compared to subjects on HAART and control. In
contrast, albumin, globulin, albumin-globulin ratio, hemoglobin, iron, zinc, and
selenium were significantly lower (p = 0.000) in drug-naive HIV subjects compared
to HIV subjects on HAART and control subjects. The CD4 count of drug-naive HIV
subjects was significantly lower (p = 0.000) compared to subjects on HAART. In
addition, malnutrition was higher in the drug-naive subjects.
Conclusions: Monitoring the course of HIV infection and malnutrition can be aided by
incorporating measurements of nutritional status and some trace elements into routine
laboratory tests.