Hemoplasma Infection in HIV-positive Patient, Brazil
2008

Hemoplasma Infection in HIV-positive Patient

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Pires dos Santos Andrea, Pires dos Santos Rodrigo, Biondo Alexander W., Dora José M., Goldani Luciano Z., Tostes de Oliveira Simone, de Sá Guimarães Ana Maárcia, Timenetsky Jorge, Autran de Morais Helio, González Félix H.D., Messick Joanne B.

Primary Institution: Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Hypothesis

Hemoplasma infections may occur more frequently than recognized, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Conclusion

Hemoplasma infections can be associated with immunocompromised states, such as HIV, and may be underdiagnosed.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient had a history of night sweats, loss of appetite, and lymphadenomegaly.
  • Blood cultures yielded no bacterial growth, indicating a specific infection.
  • PCR tests confirmed the presence of Mycoplasma haemofelis and Bartonella spp. in the patient and his cats.

Takeaway

This study talks about a sick man with HIV who got an infection from a tiny germ that usually affects cats. It shows that people with weak immune systems can get these infections too.

Methodology

The patient's blood was tested for various infections using PCR, and DNA was extracted for analysis.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

A 34-year-old HIV-positive male patient.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3201/eid1412.080964

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