R. Vasanthamoorthy, J. Balachandar
BACKGROUND As per UNAIDS data, India ranks third in the HIV epidemic in the world, with 2.1 million people living with HIV with 88000 new infections and 0.2% adult HIV prevalence (15-49 yrs. age group).1 Sexually transmitted infections are biological factors for both acquisition and transmission of HIV infection.2 STI are markers for high risk behaviour for HIV infections. There is compelling evidence that management of STIs has brought down the transmission of HIV. The aim of the study is to study the prevalence and epidemiological aspects of STI in HIV positive patients attending STD OPD in Govt. Vellore Medical College, Vellore. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective observational study of pts. who are registered at STD clinic, Government Vellore Medical College between January 2016 and Dec 2017. Inclusion Criteria- All newly diagnosed HIV pts. Attending our OPD were included and new STIs were included. Exclusion Criteria- Previously diagnosed HIV/STI were excluded. RESULTS 138 pts were identified to be HIV seropositive with coexistent STI. 66% rural and 34% were of urban origin. Predominant age grp 20 to 40 yrs. 4 males and 20 females had mixed STD and HIV. Vaginal discharge and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease seem to be predominant STI in female pts. CONCLUSION There is a high prevalence of STIs among HIV positive patients which is a very important factor for HIV transmission in society. Genital herpes and vaginal discharge were found to be the most common STIs among HIV positive individuals.
