A Study On Asymptomatic Vaginitis In Hiv Infection

ABSTRACT

Background: Vaginal discharge syndrome is common in women attending STI clinic. This may be vaginal/cervical and the presence of inflammation at these sites increase the risk of transmission and acquisition of HIV infection. Aim:To study the asymptomatic vaginitis in PLHAs. Materials & methods: An observational and prospective study for one year (year 2017) done in a tertiary care centre. A total of 152 women PLHAs participated and the diagnosis was made by correlation of clinical findings and microscopy.Results: The prevalence of asymptomatic vaginitis in PLHA was 79% (50/63 cases) which was considerably high when compared to STI clinic attendees. Vulvovaginal candidiasis was the commonest noted aymptomatic vaginitis followed by bacterial vaginosis. This states, it is the altered vaginal flora that causes asymptomatic vaginitis in PLHAs in common than the infections.Conclusion: This study stress the need for complete gynaecological evaluation and follow up in PLHAs.