Prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis among HIV/AIDS infected individuals attending gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Zaria

Abstract

Background: Diarrhea remains one of the most important health problems globally and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among immune compromised individuals. It accounts for over 50 million deaths (in all ages) world-wide and ranks 3rd among diseases responsible for human mortality globally.

Aim: This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of cryptosporidiosis in patients who presented with diarrhea attending Gambo Sawaba General Hospital Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Methods: The study was cross-sectional study in which a total of 110 diarrheic stool samples were processed using formol ether Concentration Techniques and Stained for oocysts of Cryptosporidium species using modified ZN staining method while direct sample was screened for other enteric parasites.

Results: The overall prevalence rate of cryptosporidium oocyst in the diarrhetic HIV/AIDS patient was 10%. Other parasites isolated were Ascaris lumbricoides 3.6% and Entamoeba histolytica 4.6%. Cryptosporidium infection was associated with those who defecate in pit latrine with a prevalence of 9.1% at (P=0.476) and those who drank well water without boiling with a prevalence of 7.2% at (P=0.419). There was no statistical difference between Cryptosporidium infection and those who eat undercooked food with a prevalence of 6.4% at (P=0.680). The oocysts were detected more frequently in female with 6.3% than male participants with 3.6% prevalence and patients between age group of 25-54 years were most affected with a prevalence of 2.7%.

Conclusion: A prevalence of 10% of cases among this study group is high, hence should be considered in planning interventions aimed at optimizing management of HIV/AIDS and other immune-suppressed patients.