Cytopenias and Associated Factors in Patients Living With HIV on ARV Treatment in Cameroon: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Cytopenias are a frequent concern in the management of patients living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The study objective was to determine the burden of anemia and cytopenia among PLWHA on antiretroviral treatment in the Cameroonian context and to identify the associated factors. Methods: We conducted an analytical and cross-sectional study over 4 months. The study population consisted of PLWHAs on ARV treatment at the DREAM Center in Dschang. Blood samples were taken in EDTA and dry tubes. Complete blood counts, CD4 count, ferritin, and serum iron measurements were performed using flow cytometry, ELISA, and spectrophotometry methods. The results were recorded in an Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Results: 198 PLWHAs on ARV treatment with extremes aged 15-75 years were included in this study, with a sex ratio of 0.48 in favor of women. The frequency of anemia was 32.32%. Triple therapy (3TC + TDF + DLV) was the most commonly used regimen (75.76%). The frequency of anemias was 32.32%, and they were mainly normocytic and normochromic. 8.08% of the population had leukopenia, and 9.09% had thrombocytopenia. Advanced immunodeficiency (CD4 level: 200-500 C/mm³) was identified as a predictive factor for anemia in PLWH in this study (OR = 2.88 [0.82-10.11]; p = 0.097). Conclusion: Cytopenias in general, and anemias, in particular, are very common in patients with HIV/AIDS. These results raise the need for adequate follow-up of the sick population to limit the effects of these cytopenias for a healthier life of patients.

Keywords: PLWHA; anemia; associated factors; cytopenias; treatment.