Anaemia and immunological markers in HIV patients on antiretroviral drugs (HAART)

Among those with HIV, anaemia is a strong risk factor for disease progression and death independent of CD4 count. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of ARV drugs on anaemia and immunological markers in HIV patients. A total of forty four patients placed on HAART (Niverapine + Stavudine/Zidovudine + Lamivudine) were enrolled for the study. CD4 cell count was done using Becton Dickinson (BD) FACSCount analyser, while platelets, lymphocytes%, neutrophils%, and Haemoglobin (Hb) were determined using QBC Autoread analyser. All the parameters were repeated at 12th week and 24th week after placement on drug regimen. The mean CD4 cells count was 198.26 cells/µl, 240.37 cells/µl and 360.45 cells/µl for baseline, 12th and 24th week respectively. Total WBC count was 7.62x109 /L, 7.3x109 /L and 7.39 x109 /L, while lymphocytes% count was 39.2%, 43.2% and 43.2%. The neutrophils% count was 58.8%, 39.7% and 59.7%. The platelets count was 29.5 x109 /L, 303.6 x109 /L and 286 x109 /L (Values represent baseline 12th week and 24th week respectively). Results between baseline and 12th week, CD4, Hb, and WBC count showed significant increase (P<0.05) as well as 12th and 24th week CD4, Hb and ESR, showed significant increase. It was concluded that HAART results in improved in immunological response and reduces incidence of anemia in HIV/AIDS patients.