Pediatric Ocular Manifestations of HIV/AIDS in Makurdi Benue State; a Hyperendemic State in Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Benue State; Nigeria; currently has the highest seroprevalence nationwide. Data available from developed countries and the few available ones from the developing countries have all indicated that the pattern and prevalence of HIV-related ocular morbidity in the paediatric population is quite different from those that occur in the adult population.This study is aimed at ascertaining the pattern of ocular affectations of HIV-infected paediatric age group. A retrospective study of all the children aged 1-16 years; diagnosed cases of HIV/AIDS who presented to the eye unit or were seen by Invitation for Consultation in other units of the Federal Medical Centre in Makurdi between June 2002 to May 2006. A register was open in the Eye Department of Federal Medical Centre between June 2002 to May 2007. Extracted from this register were the bio-data of the patients; Ocular presentation; corrected Visual acuity and Ocular diagnosis of all Seropositive HIV/AIDS children reviewed. Of all the358 seropositive children; only 121 ( 33.8) had ocular affectations. . There were 206 (57.5) males 152 (42.5) females. The most common anterior segment lesions were conjunctival microangiopathy; non-purulent conjunctivitis; recurrent chalazion and external hordeolum. The most prevalent posterior segment ocular lesions were peri-vasculitis; toxoplasmal retinochoroiditis retinal haemorhages; and macular edema. In conclusion; posterior segment and neuro-ophthalmic complications of the HIV/AIDS were the major causes of ocular morbidity and visual impairment. Ocular assessment is of paramount importance for early detection and management of vision threatening complication of HIV/AIDS in children