Sero-Prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis among People Living with HIV/AIDS in North-western Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Cryptosporidium species are obligate, intracellular, protozoan parasites belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa, which is a  substantial threat to HIV/AIDS-infected individuals with an estimated risk of infection of around 52% in developing countries.

Aim: The  study was aimed at determining the Sero-Prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis among people living with HIV/AIDS in North-western Nigeria.      

Methods: Structured questionnaires were administered to 90 participants who were selected by inclusion criteria sampling technique  with a total of 90 blood samples collected from them. Serological analysis of the blood samples was carried out using the Human    Cryptosporidium parvum (CP) ELISA detection test Kit. (Melsin Medical Co., Limited, China LOT NUMBER: 20191023), and CD4 cell count was performed.

Results: Out of the 100 participants, 19(19%) were found to be positive for Cryptosporidium parvum and 81(81%) were  negative with an overall prevalence of 19%. There was no statistical significance between Cryptosporidium infection and those who used  pit latrine (p=0.347), eating outside (p=0.494), reared animals (p=0.838) and the type of water source (p=0.641). The association between   Cryptosporidium parvum and the CD4+ count of the participants was determined using a statistically insignificant chi-square test (p=  0.409). The higher the CD4+ count, the lesser the risk for Cryptosporidium parvum infection.

Conclusion: This study reveals an overall Sero-Prevalence of 19% of C. parvum among HIV/AIDS patients and there is no association between CD4+ count and infection of  Cryptosporidium parvum.