HIV Infection Is Associated with a Lower Incidence of Constriction in Presumed Tuberculous Pericarditis: A Prospective Observational Study
2008

HIV Infection and Lower Risk of Constriction in Tuberculous Pericarditis

Sample size: 185 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ntsekhe Mpiko, Wiysonge Charles S., Gumedze Freedom, Maartens Gary, Commerford Patrick J., Volmink Jimmy A., Mayosi Bongani M.

Primary Institution: University of Cape Town

Hypothesis

People with HIV-associated tuberculous pericardial effusion may have a lower incidence of pericardial constriction than those without HIV.

Conclusion

HIV infection is associated with a lower incidence of pericardial constriction in patients with presumed tuberculous pericarditis.

Supporting Evidence

  • Patients with clinical features of HIV infection had a lower incidence of constriction compared to those without.
  • None of the HIV seropositive patients developed constriction.
  • The study included 185 patients with presumed tuberculous pericarditis.

Takeaway

This study found that people with HIV are less likely to develop a serious heart condition after having tuberculosis-related heart fluid.

Methodology

A prospective observational study assessing the incidence of constrictive pericarditis among patients with presumed tuberculous pericardial effusion.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to high mortality in patients with clinical signs of HIV infection before they could be assessed for constrictive pericarditis.

Limitations

The study had a short follow-up period of six months and relied on clinical diagnosis without microbiological confirmation for most cases.

Participant Demographics

Median age of participants was 33 years, with a mix of HIV positive and negative individuals.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.005

Confidence Interval

95% CI 5.9–18%

Statistical Significance

p=0.005

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0002253

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