Background:

The nuances in anti retroviral therapy has resulted in a significant increase in the life expectancy of patients infected with HIV.A variety of gastro intestinal disorders occur in these patients, related or unrelated to HIV. We share our experience in the management of common gastrointestinal(GI) disorders in these patients.

Aims and Objectives:

            We intend to study the difference in management strategies for gastrointestinal surgical disorders between retroviral and non retroviral patients and also assess the outcome of treatment in retroviral patients.

Materials and Methods:

            This is a prospective observational study of 34 retroviral patients treated for a heterogeneous group of GI disorders. All were treated on standard guidelines. The primary outcome measure was morbidity of any form. The secondary outcome measure was mortality.

Results:

            There was no increase in morbidity and mortality when CD4 count  >500.

Conclusion:

             Retroviral disease does not alter the management strategy or the course of the disease in patients with CD4 count >500 /cmm