Plasma Folate Levels in HIV-Positive Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Alani Akanmu, Vincent Osunkalu, Adewumi Adediran, Titilope Adeyemo Onogu, Ernest Ralph Akinde, Hab Coker
Primary Institution: College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria
Hypothesis
This study aims to determine plasma folate levels in newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve, HIV-positive patients and relate this to other hematological changes.
Conclusion
Plasma folate level is a predictor of anemia in early HIV infections.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean plasma folate concentration among the study group was significantly lower than that for the control group.
- Prevalence of anemia among the study group was 72%.
- Plasma folate correlated positively with CD4 cell count and inversely with viral load.
Takeaway
This study found that people with HIV often have low folate levels, which can lead to anemia, making it important to check folate levels when someone is diagnosed with HIV.
Methodology
200 participants were recruited, including 100 HIV-positive treatment-naïve patients and 100 HIV-negative controls, with blood samples analyzed for plasma folate and hematological parameters.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing folate levels and anemia in HIV patients.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 100 HIV-positive patients and 100 HIV-negative controls, with mean ages of 32 and 38 years respectively.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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