Changes in Lipids and Routine Haematological Parameters as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection Progresses to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the changes in some lipids and routine haematological parameters that take place as immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection progresses to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Fifty HIV positive asymptomatic adults were recruited for the study, out of whom 30 developed clinical AIDS. Statistically significant decreases were observed for packed cell volume (PCV), haemaglobin (Hb), total white blood cell count (WCC), absolute neutrophil count, absolute lymphocyte count, LDL-cholesterol (P < 0.001) total cholesterol (P < 0.002) and triglyceride (P < 0.005) in HIV infections when compared with age and sex-matched control subjects. However, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) increased significantly (P < 0.001) in HIV infection. During AIDS episodes, a further decrease was observed for PCV, Hb, LDL-cholesterol (P < 0.001), and HDL cholesterol (P < 0.02). Increased levels were observed for WCC, ESR and triglyceride (P < 0.001). Whereas there was hypocholesterolaemia in HIV infection, hypertriglyceridaemia was observed in AIDS. The understanding of these various modifications will be of importance in AIDS management, intervention, and patients\' education in order to minimize the effects of associated complications.

Key words: HIV progression, AIDS, lipids, haematological profiles

Journal of Medical Laboratory Science Vol.13(1) 2004: 23 - 29