Serologic investigations in a New York City cohort of parenteral drug users

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to be a major health problem for society. Intravenous drug users are the second largest risk group for HIV infection. The disease primarily affects immunologic functioning. This study examined the inherent immunologic dysfunction by measuring the seroprevalence of infection against pathogens often associated with HIV infection. Additionally, chi square analysis was used to compare intravenous drug users with a non-drug-using control group to see if any difference existed in the prevalence of antinuclear antibody, rheumatoid factor, abnormal titer of antibody to Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex virus (types 1 and 2). The intravenous drug users had a significantly greater level of antibody titers for antinuclear antibody and Toxoplasma gondii than did controls. Abnormal serologic results were not significantly associated with HIV seropositivity. The findings of this study suggest that intravenous drug users experience a greater prevalence of alteration in serologic markers unrelated to HIV exposure.