TOXOPLASMIC ENCEPHALITIS IN PATIENTS WITH HIV/AIDS: A HOSPITAL BASED CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Reema Mukherjee; Dharmendra Kumar

Volume : VI, Issue : I, January - 2017

TOXOPLASMIC ENCEPHALITIS IN PATIENTS WITH HIV/AIDS: A HOSPITAL BASED CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Reema Mukherjee, Dharmendra Kumar

Abstract :

Background: Toxoplasma encephalitis (TE) is one of the leading causes of central nervous system (CNS) infection in AIDS. Here we describe the clinical and radiological features of TE in HIV positive patients. Methods: We carried out a hospital based cross sectional study on 100 consecutive HIV positive patients between May 2003 to April 2005.

Results: Of 100 HIV positive patients reporting to the hospital during the study period, 07 had TE thus prevalence of infection was 7%. The mean age was 36.5 � 08 years and the mean CD4 cell count was 122 cells/mm³. Headache and fever were the most common presenting symptoms in 100% of our patients Ring enhancing lesions were the most common ain scan finding in 100% of patients. CD4 cell count of less than 100cells/mm3 was associated with TE in our patients. Prompt treatment was instituted for all 07 patients and none of our patients died. Conclusion: Toxoplasma encephalitis continues to be a cause for concern in HIV positive patients.