Assessment of Platelet Counts and Use of Thrombocytopenia to Predict Low CD4 Count in Anti-retroviral Therapy (ART)-Naive HIV-Positive Children in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

A bstract Background: Thrombocytopenia is associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease progression and reduced survival in children. Objectives: To assess the platelet counts and the use of thrombocytopenia to predict low CD4 count in anti-retroviral therapy (ART)-naive HIV-positive children in Enugu, Nigeria. Materials and methods: This study was a prospective observational study carried out at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, involving 200 children (100 test subjects and 100 test controls). Biodata was collected with a proforma, and blood samples were subsequently collected and analyzed for platelet count and CD 4 count. Data generated were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SSPS) version 22. Results: The prevalence of thrombocytopenia was similar in both groups (7% vs. 6%; p = 0.774). There was no significant association between participants’ age and thrombocytopenia (p = 0.500). Likewise, CD4 count was not significantly associated with thrombocytopenia (p = 0.239). Conclusion: The prevalence of thrombocytopenia is comparable between the two groups. Thrombocytopenia should not be considered as one of the criteria for commencement of anti-retroviral medications in anti-retroviral therapy-naive HIV-positive children.