RESUMO
Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS] is being increasingly reported from various regions in Pakistan. With the unavailability and financial restriction of antiretroviral therapy, most patients will develop opportunistic infections in the course of their disease. Knowledge and recognition of these opportunistic infections has both individual and public health consequences. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on all HIV positive patients presenting to Liaquat National Hospital and one outpatient clinic at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi from November 1991 to July 2003. Demographic data and risk factors were recorded and detailed information was collected regarding the presence and characteristics of opportunistic infections in this population. A total of 85 patients were included in the study, of which 61 [71.8%] were male and 24 [28.2%] were female. Majority of the patients [50, 58.8%] were in the 31-45 year age group. At the time of presentation 65 [76.5%] of the patients were symptomatic. The gastrointestinal tract was the most commonly affected system [n = 69, 81%]. This was followed by pulmonary [n = 26, 40%], central nervous system [n = 13, 20%], and skin infections [n = 11, 15.3%]. Overall, oral candidiasis was the most common opportunistic infection diagnosed. This study shows that a wide spectrum of opportunistic infections occur in our population of patients with HIV/AIDS. A higher index of suspicion and improved availability of diagnostic tests are required to identify these infections. In addition, better access to antiretroviral therapy is needed to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease