Clinical presentations and outcomes of TB among HIV-positive patients

Abstract

A retrospective cohort study reviewed the hospital records of 200 consecutive HIV patients and followed for 6 months period of TB treatment. Sociodemographic details, symptoms, and signs, results of investigations were recorded at the time of presentation, while diagnosis, and clinical outcomes were done at the end of the follow up period. The aim of the study was to determine the clinical manifestations and outcomes in tuberculosis among HIV-positive patients in Bamrasnaradura Hospital, Nonthaburi. Also, predictive factors for loss of follow up in these patients were determined. The results showed that extrapulmonary TB (58%) was more common, and lymphadenopathy (52%) was the most common sign on examination. Chest x-rays were positive in only 55% cases, while AFB examinations were positive in 48.5%. After 6 months, 30% patients were alive, 12% patients died, and 50% patients were lost to follow up. Factors such as low socioeconomic status (p<0.001), past history of TB (p<0.003) etc were statistically significant in predicting the likely loss of follow up and thus, nonadherence in TB management among HIV- positive patients. In conclusion, tuberculosis in HIV patients presents as extrapulmonary involvement more frequently. The diagnosis is more difficult in cases of HIV. Patients' noncompliance is the biggest problem in management of TB in these patients, but there are predictors which can help us identify the likely patients, and thus, improve their management and clinical outcomes.