Understanding CSF Pleocytosis in HIV Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Marra Christina M, Maxwell Clare L, Collier Ann C, Robertson Kevin R, Imrie Allison
Primary Institution: Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
Hypothesis
What is the relationship between CSF pleocytosis, CNS antiretroviral penetration, adherence to antiretroviral medication regimens, and neurological symptoms in HIV-infected individuals?
Conclusion
CSF pleocytosis is linked to identifiable clinical features in HIV patients, and using antiretroviral agents reduces the likelihood of pleocytosis.
Supporting Evidence
- CSF pleocytosis was significantly related to lack of current antiretroviral use.
- Higher CD4 counts were associated with increased odds of CSF pleocytosis.
- Detectable plasma HIV RNA was linked to higher odds of CSF pleocytosis.
Takeaway
Some people with HIV have extra white blood cells in their spinal fluid, but taking HIV medicine can help lower that number.
Methodology
The study involved clinically stable HIV-infected individuals who attended visits every 6 months for at least one year, undergoing various assessments including lumbar puncture and neuropsychological tests.
Potential Biases
The study was a convenience sample, which may affect generalizability.
Limitations
The sample size was modest, which may limit the power to detect some associations.
Participant Demographics
{"age":{"median":41.5,"range":"23-64"},"gender":{"male":39,"female":11},"race":{"White":33,"Black":10,"Hispanic":4,"Other":3},"education_years":{"median":13,"range":"9-18"}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.8–18.6
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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