<i>Helicobacter pylori</i> and <i>Treponema pallidum</i> (syphilis) co-infection among HIV patients attending a private clinic in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This delve examined the periodicity of polyinfection of Helicobacter pylori and Treponema pallidum in HIV-infected individuals who visited Capitol Hills Clinic in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. Syphilis and H. pylori infections are major worldwide health issues that have diverse clinical presentations and consequences. It is essential to comprehend the co-infestation rates of syphilis and H. pylori in HIV patients to effectively manage patient care, given the resurgence of syphilis and the ongoing incidence of H. pylori. A study employing a cross-sectional design was carried out, which included a hundred individuals living with HIV who were receiving medical treatment at Capitol Hills Clinic. Blood samples were obtained and examined using fast diagnostic test kits to spot the existence of H. pylori and Treponema pallidum. The study involved the analysis of demographic characteristics, such as occupation, age, marital status, religion, and sex, to discover how these components are related to the prevalence of co-infestation. Results from the study showed that 67% of HIV-infected patients had a significant co-infection incidence of H. pylori, but no cases of Treponema pallidum were observed. The incidence of H. pylori differed among various age groups, with the greatest incidence seen among those aged 21-40 years (71%). Gender-wise, males showed a somewhat greater prevalence (69%) compared to females (65%). Marital status seems to have an impact on the prevalence, as married persons exhibited a greater prevalence rate of 71% compared to singles, who had a prevalence rate of 64%. The findings underscore the significance of frequent screening for H. pylori and syphilis co-illnesses among HIV patients, especially in places with a high burden of both infections like Nigeria. These co-infections might complicate the clinical management of HIV, potentially leading to increased morbidity and mortality.