Agents of diarrhea

FLT3L governs the development of partially overlapping hematopoietic lineages in humans and mice

FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (FLT3L), encoded by FLT3LG, is a hematopoietic factor essential for the development of natural killer (NK) cells, B cells, and dendritic cells (DCs) in mice. We describe three humans homozygous for a loss-of-function FLT3LG variant with a history of various recurrent infections, including severe cutaneous warts. The patients' bone marrow (BM) was hypoplastic, with low levels of hematopoietic progenitors, particularly myeloid and B cell precursors. Counts of B cells, monocytes, and DCs were low in the patients' blood, whereas the other blood subsets, including NK cells, were affected only moderately, if at all. The patients had normal counts of Langerhans cells (LCs) and dermal macrophages in the skin but lacked dermal DCs. Thus, FLT3L is required for B cell and DC development in mice and humans. However, unlike its murine counterpart, human FLT3L is required for the development of monocytes but not NK cells.

Occurrence and Molecular Characterization of Cryptosporidium Infection in HIV/Aids Patients in Algeria

The estimated prevalence rate of adults living with HIV infection in MENA is one of the lowest in the world. To date, no data on the genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium isolates from HIV/AIDS patients in Algeria were available. This study aimed to identify Cryptosporidium species and subtype families prevalent in Algerian HIV-infected patients and contribute to the molecular epidemiology mapping of Cryptosporidium in the MENA region. A total of 350 faecal specimens from HIV/AIDS patients were analysed using microscopy, and a Cryptosporidium infection was identified from 33 samples, with 22 isolates successfully sequencing and confirming species and subtypes. Based on sequence analysis, 15 isolates were identified as C. parvum with family subtypes IIa (n = 7) and IId (n = 8), while five were identified as C. hominis (family subtypes Ia (n = 2) and Ib (n = 3)) and two as C. felis. The C. parvum subtype families IIa and IId predominated, suggesting potential zoonotic transmission. More extensive sampling of both humans and farm animals, especially sheep, goats and calves, as well as a collection of epidemiological data are needed for a better understanding of the sources of human C. parvum infections in Algeria.

Epidemiology of Cryptosporidium Infections among People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria: Results of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Cryptosporidium is implicated in diarrhea epidemics in many parts of the world and is said to be the most common protozoan cause of diarrhea among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) globally. To provide data on the burden of Cryptosporidium infections among Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS, we reported the prevalence, geographic distribution and Cryptosporidium species diversity among this population in Nigeria.

METHODS

We used the PRISMA guidelines to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of articles published between January 1, 1995 and April 21, 2020. Pooled estimate (PE), heterogeneity, quality of each study and publication bias were determined using the random-effects model, Cochran's Q test, the 9 point Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument and the Egger's regression asymmetry test, respectively.

RESULTS

Forty-six articles reported 2612 positive cases of Cryptosporidium infections from 12,756 PLWHA examined in 20 Nigerian States and the Federal Capital Territory. Overall pooled estimate was 14.5% (95% CI 10.4-19.9) with a range of 0.3% (95% CI 0.0-1.8) to 43.7% (95% CI 35.6-52.3) across sub-groups, with the PEs in relation to CD4⁺ T cell count, species and age showing significant variations at p < 0.05. Cryptosporidium hominis was the most prevalent (3.5%, 95% CI 2.3-5.2) of the six Cryptosporidium species reported in Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

Cryptosporidium infections are moderately prevalent among PLWHA in Nigeria with the highest regional prevalence in the north-east. In addition to personal hygienic practices, the inclusion of Cryptosporidium screening as part of HIV/AIDS clinics in Nigeria will reduce the burden of the parasite among PLWHA in Nigeria.

Prevalence of enteric bacteria and enteroparasites in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals with diarrhoea attending antiretroviral treatment clinic, Arba Minch General Hospital, southern Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, only limited data are available regarding the prevalence of enteric bacterial pathogens and enteroparasites in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) -infected individuals with diarrhoea. Hence, this study aims to assess the prevalence of enteric bacteria and enteroparasites, and also the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacteria in them. An institution-based cross-sectional study was performed in HIV patients with diarrhoea, who visited the Anti-Retroviral Therapy Clinic of the Arba Minch General Hospital between 1 March and 31 August 2019. Data pertaining to sociodemographic characteristics and other factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool culture is of utmost importance in the case of HIV-infected individuals with diarrhoea. Stool samples were collected and examined for bacterial and parasitic pathogens following standard procedures. The antibiotic susceptibility test was performed as per the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Data were analysed using SPSS software. A total of 180 individuals were included in the stool collection process. The prevalence rates of enteric bacteria and enteroparasites were 8.3% and 36.1%, respectively. Parasitic infections were more frequent than bacterial infections in these HIV-infected individuals; commonly identified enteroparasites were Giardia lamblia (8.9%) and Cryptosporidium parvum (8.3%). Campylobacter sp. was the most predominant enteric bacterial isolate (4.4%), followed by Salmonella (2.1%) and Shigella (1.1%) species. CD4 counts <200 cells/μL was significantly associated with both bacterial infections (adjusted OR 9.55, 95% CI 1.54-59.3, p 0.015) and parasitic infections (adjusted OR 3.53, 95% CI 1.3-17.9, p 0.03). Multidrug resistance was also detected in 100%, 75% and 60% of Shigella, Campylobacter and Salmonella sp., respectively. We found that enteroparasitic infections were more frequent than bacterial infections. Statistical analysis revealed that CD4 T-cell counts <200 cells/μL, quality of drinking water sources, hand washing habits after toilet and the presence of domestic animals were significantly associated with the prevalence of enteric pathogens.

Prevalence and associated factors of intestinal parasite infection by HIV infection status among asymptomatic adults in rural Gabon

INTRODUCTION

Intestinal parasites infections are endemic in Gabon. Nevertheless, they are rarely described in people living with HIV (PLHIV).

OBJECTIVE

The frequency of intestinal parasite infection was estimated and compared between HIV-positive and HIV uninfected individuals in Gabon; factors associated with intestinal parasites were also analysed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Using a cross-sectional study design sociodemographic data, life style habits, antiretroviral therapy, cotrimoxazole use and CD4 cell count were recorded.. Stool samples from participants living in Koulamoutou and Oyem were analysed using microscopy. Chi-squared or fisher's exact tests and logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS

Among participants (n=332), female gender was predominant (73.7%; n=135/183) and the median age was 45 [33-57] years old. Among 183 samples, 53.6% (n = 98/183) were infected by intestinal parasites. The proportion was higher (72.1%) in HIV negative participants compared to PLHIV (42.6%) (p <0.01). PLHIV were more frequently poly-infected. Infection was frequent in patients using external toilets and tap water (>70.0%).

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of intestinal parasites is higher in seronegative participants but polyparasitism is more frequent in PLHIV. Strategies are focused on HIV negative population, but this study shows the importance of sensitization for PLHIV to improve their quality of life.

Cryptosporidiosis in HIV-positive patients and related risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Cryptosporidium is one of the major causes of diarrhea in HIV-positive patients. The aim of this study is to systematically review and meta-analyze the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in these patients. PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Cochrane and Ovid databases were searched for relevant studies dating from the period of 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2017. Data extraction for the included studies was performed independently by two authors. The overall pooled prevalence was calculated and subgroup analysis was performed on diagnostic methods, geographical distribution and study population. Meta-regression was performed on the year of publication, proportion of patients with diarrhea, and proportion of patients with CD4 < 200 cells/mL. One hundred and sixty-one studies and 51,123 HIV-positive participants were included. The overall pooled prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in HIV-positive patients was 11.2% (CI95%: 9.4%–13.0%). The pooled prevalence was estimated to be 10.0% (CI95%: 8.4%–11.8%) using staining methods, 13.5% (CI95%: 8.9%–19.8%) using molecular methods, and 26.3% (CI95%: 15.0%–42.0%) using antigen detection methods. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium in HIV patients was significantly associated with the country of study. Also, there were statistical differences between the diarrhea, CD4 < 200 cells/mL, and antiretroviral therapy risk factors with Cryptosporidiosis. Thus, Cryptosporidium is a common infection in HIV-positive patients, and safe water and hand-hygiene should be implemented to prevent cryptosporidiosis occurrence in these patients.

Multiple parasitic and viral infections in a patient living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy

Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are more prone for gastrointestinal infections causing diarrhoea, particularly with parasites. Parasitic infections have been regularly reported in such patients. A female patient confirmed positive for HIV 1 on antiretroviral therapy came with complaints of chronic diarrhoea for the past 7 months. Her initial CD4 count was 89 cells/μl of blood, and antibodies to cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 virus were found to be positive in the patient's serum, but there was no HIV-associated retinopathy. Her stool examination showed decorticated fertilised eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides, cysts of Blastocystis sp. and Entamoeba species in the unconcentrated sample and oocysts of Cystoisospora species, egg of Schistosoma haematobium and eggs of Trichuris trichiura in the concentrated. The patient responded well to cotrimoxazole and albendazole, and repeat samples were negative for all these parasites.

Association between enteric protozoan parasites and gastrointestinal illness among HIV- and tuberculosis-infected individuals in the Chowke district, southern Mozambique

Human immune deficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) infections remain major public health issues globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Impairment of both cell-mediated and humoral immunity by HIV and/or TB infections may limit the host's defences against other pathogens, including the diarrheagenic protozoan Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia intestinalis, and Entamoeba histolytica. During September-December 2015 a cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence and molecular diversity of these enteric parasites among HIV- and/or TB-infected patients at a medical reference centre in Chowke district, southern Mozambique. A total of 99 stool specimens were initially screened by direct microscopy and further confirmed and characterised by molecular methods. DNA sequence analyses of the genes encoding the small subunit ribosomal RNA and the 60-kDa glycoprotein were used for the typing and sub-typing of Cryptosporidium isolates, respectively. G. intestinalis-positive isolates by real-time PCR were subsequently typed at the glutamate dehydrogenase locus. Differential diagnosis of E. histolytica/dispar was achieved by real-time PCR. G. intestinalis (8.1%) was the enteric protozoan more frequently detected, followed by Cryptosporidium spp. (7.1%), and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (6.1%). Two HIV-infected (but not TB-infected) patients harbour G. intestinalis and Cryptosporidium spp. co-infections. Two (29%) G. intestinalis isolates were successfully characterised, revealing the presence of known AII and novel BIV genotypes. Four (57%) Cryptosporidium isolates were unmistakeable assigned to C. hominis, identifying two (IbA10G2 and IdA22) sub-types. Cryptosporidium infections were not associated to diarrhoea in HIV-positive patients, probably because improved immune function in the affected individuals due to antiretroviral therapy. G. intestinalis was considered a non-opportunistic pathogen, whereas the presence of E. histolytica could not be confirmed by molecular methods. Based on their common presence in the studied clinical population, we recommend the effective diagnosis and treatment of these enteropathogens for improving the management of HIV and TB patients.

Cryptosporidium and other intestinal parasitic infections among HIV patients in southern Ethiopia: significance of improved HIV-related care

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections are known to cause gastroenteritis, leading to higher morbidity and mortality, particularly in people living with HIV/AIDS. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium and other intestinal parasitic infections among HIV patients receiving care at a hospital in Ethiopia where previous available baseline data helps assess if improved HIV-related care has reduced infection rates.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hawassa University Hospital in southern Ethiopia from May, 2013 to March, 2014. A consecutive sample of 491 HIV- infected patients with diarrhea or a CD4 T cell count < 200 cells/μl were prospectively studied. A single stool sample was collected from each study participant and processed using direct, formol-ether concentration, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen techniques for the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium and other intestinal parasites. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University. Physicians managed participants found to be infected with any pathogenic intestinal parasite.

Results

The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among the study population was 35.8 %. The most prevalent parasites were Cryptosporidium (13.2 %), followed by Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (10.2 %), and Giardia lamblia (7.9 %). The rate of single and multiple infections were 25.5 and 10.3 %, respectively. Patients with a CD4 T cell count < 200 cells/μl had a similar rate of any intestinal parasitic infection or cryptosporidiosis compared to those with counts ≥ 200 cells/μl, but with some type of diarrhea.

Conclusion

The study shows high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in the study population. However, the results in the current report are significantly lower compared to previous findings in the same hospital. The observed lower infection rate is encouraging and supports the need to strengthen and sustain the existing intervention measures in order to further reduce intestinal parasitic infections in people living with HIV/AIDS.

Intestinal Parasite Profile in the Stool of HIV Positive Patients in relation to Immune Status and Comparison of Various Diagnostic Techniques with Special Reference to Cryptosporidium at a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and related opportunistic infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in susceptible population. This study aims to negate the paucity of data regarding the relation between CD4 levels, prevalence of enteric parasites, and the outcome of treatment with HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) and Cotrimoxazole in Kerala, India. Multiple stool samples from 200 patients in a cross-sectional study were subjected to microscopy and Cryptosporidium stool antigen ELISA. Parasites were identified in 18 samples (9%). Cystoisospora and Cryptosporidium spp. were seen in 9 cases (4.5%) and 5 cases (2.5%), respectively. Microsporidium spores and Chilomastix mesnili cysts were identified in 1 case each (0.5% each). Seven cases of Cystoisospora diarrhoea recovered after treatment with Cotrimoxazole. Diarrhoea due to Cryptosporidium spp. in all 5 cases subsided after immune reconstitution with HAART. This study concludes that a positive association was seen between low CD4 count (<200 cells/μL) and overall parasite positivity (P value < 0.01). ELISA is a more sensitive modality for the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium diarrhoea. Chilomastix mesnili, generally considered a nonpathogen, may be a cause of diarrhoeal disease in AIDS. Immune reconstitution and Cotrimoxazole prophylaxis remain to be the best therapeutic approach in AIDS-related diarrhoea.

Prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections among individuals living with HIV/AIDS at Felegehiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

HIV infection continues to pose a serious challenge to global health by predisposing patients to opportunistic infections. A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2012 to February 2013 to assess the enteric protozoan infection status among individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Felegehiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar, northwest Ethiopia.

METHODS

Stool specimens from 399 HIV-positive individuals were examined for the presence of trophozoites, cysts, and oocysts using direct wet mount, formol-ether sedimentation and modified Ziehl-Neelsen techniques. In addition, CD4+ T-cell counts were measured to evaluate the immune status of the study subjects.

RESULTS

An overall prevalence of 30.6% enteric protozoan infections was recorded. Pre-ART (antiretroviral treatment) individuals were more infected than patients on ART, although this was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The highest prevalence of enteric protozoan infection was due to Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar (19.3%), followed by Cryptosporidium spp (5.8%), Giardia lamblia (4.3%), and Isospora belli (1.3%). A CD4+ T-cell count of <200 cells/μl and status of being diarrhoeic were significantly associated with the overall prevalence of enteric protozoan infection.

CONCLUSIONS

A relatively high prevalence of enteric protozoan infection was observed among individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Routine stool and CD4+ T-cell examinations should be conducted to monitor the status of HIV/AIDS patients.

Study of opportunistic intestinal parasitic infections in human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients

Introduction:

Intestinal parasites predominantly coccidian parasites are a common cause for diarrhea in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted during January 2009-December 2010. A total of 1,088 stool samples from 544 seropositive HIV positive cases were examined microscopically for ova and cyst using wet mount preparations and stained smears. Out of 544 patients, 343 had prolonged diarrhea for more than 4 weeks, 57 had acute diarrhea of lesser than 7 days and 144 were asymptomatic cases who attended out-patient department; included in this study after taking consent from patients. Enteric pathogens were detected in 274 (50.36%) of the 544 patients.

Results and Conclusions:

The parasites identified were Cryptosporidium (135), Isospora belli (42), Cyclospora (12), Microsporidia (02), Entamoeba histolytica (49), Hookworm (34). Intestinal parasites in chronic diarrhea were significantly higher than the acute diarrhea (63.05% vs. 7.35%; P < 0.05). Parasitic pathogens were frequently associated with HIV-positive patients with diarrhea in Western India. Stools of all HIV-positive patients with diarrhea should thoroughly be investigated to identify etiologic agents for proper management.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted during January 2009-December 2010. A total of 1,088 stool samples from 544 seropositive HIV positive cases were examined microscopically for ova and cyst using wet mount preparations and stained smears. Out of 544 patients, 343 had prolonged diarrhea for more than 4 weeks, 57 had acute diarrhea of lesser than 7 days and 144 were asymptomatic cases who attended out-patient department; included in this study after taking consent from patients. Enteric pathogens were detected in 274 (50.36%) of the 544 patients.

Results and Conclusions:

The parasites identified were Cryptosporidium (135), Isospora belli (42), Cyclospora (12), Microsporidia (02), Entamoeba histolytica (49), Hookworm (34). Intestinal parasites in chronic diarrhea were significantly higher than the acute diarrhea (63.05% vs. 7.35%; P > 0.05). Parasitic pathogens were frequently associated with HIV-positive patients with diarrhea in Western India. Stools of all HIV-positive patients with diarrhea should thoroughly be investigated to identify etiologic agents for proper management.

Intestinal protozoans in adults with diarrhea

Background:

Diarrhea is one of the most common presenting complaints in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals.

Aims:

The study was designed to determine the magnitude of opportunistic and nonopportunistic intestinal parasitic infections among diarrheal patients and association between CD4⁺ T-cell counts and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected intestinal parasites.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 207 enrolled diarrheal patients attending HIV integrated counseling and testing center from January 2012 to December 2012. Stool samples were subjected to special modified Ziehl-Neelsen and chromotrope staining method for detection of opportunistic protozoans. Blood samples were also collected from all study subjects for HIV testing and CD4⁺ T-cell counts were estimated by only in HIV-infected patients.

Results:

Intestinal parasitic pathogens were detected in 46.1% HIV-infected patients and the major pathogens were opportunistic protozoans 32.2% (37/115), most common being Isospora belli 16.5% (19/115) followed by Cryptosporidium parvum 12.2% (14/115). In HIV noninfected diarrheal patients, major pathogens detected were Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar 8.7% (8/92) and Ascaris lumbricoides 3.3% (3/92).

Conclusions:

The opportunistic intestinal protozoans especially I. belli and C. parvum were most commonly isolated in HIV-infected patients with diarrhea. Majority of the infections occurred in patients when a CD4⁺ T-cell counts were less than 200 cells/μl.

Enteric pathogens in HIV-positive patients with diarrhoea and their correlation with CD4+ T-lymphocyte counts

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Opportunistic parasitic infections are among the most serious infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients and claim number of lives every year. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and to elucidate the association between intestinal opportunistic parasitic infection and CD4 (CD4+ T lymphocyte) counts in HIV-positive patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was done on 266 HIV-positive patients presenting with diarrhoea and 100 HIV-positive patients without diarrhoea attending the integrated counselling and testing centre (ICTC) of SMS hospital, Jaipur. Simultaneously, CD4+ T-cell count estimation was done to assess the status of HIV infection vis-à-vis parasitic infections. The identification of pathogens was done on the basis of direct microscopy and different staining techniques.

RESULTS

Out of 266 patients with diarrhoea, parasites were isolated from 162 (i.e. 60.9%) patients compared to 16 (16%) patients without diarrhoea. Cryptosporidium parvum (25.2%) was the predominant parasite isolated in HIV-positive patients with diarrhoea followed by Isospora belli (10.9%). Parasites were more commonly isolated from stool samples of chronic diarrhoea patients, (77% i.e. 128/166) as compared to acute diarrhoea patients (34% i.e. 34/100) (P<0.05). The maximum parasitic isolation was in the patients with CD4+ T cell counts below 200 cells/μl.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic diarrhoea in HIV-positive patients with CD4+ T-cell counts <200/μl has high probability of association with intestinal parasitic infections. Identification of these parasitic infections may play an important role in administration of appropriate therapy and reduction of mortality and morbidity in these patients.

To Study the Prevalence of Various Enteric Parasitic Infections Among HIV Infected Individuals in the P.D.U. Medical College and Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, India

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Enteric parasites are a major cause of diarrhoea in HIV infected individuals. The present study was undertaken to detect the enteric parasites in HIV infected patients with diarrhoea, who were at different levels of immunity.

METHODS

This study was carried out in the P.D.U Medical College and Civil Hospital, Rajkot, India. during the period from June 2009 to June 2010. A total of 100 stool samples from HIV seropositive patients were examined for opportunistic, gastrointestinal parasitic infections. The samples were classified according to the age groups, sex, and occupation, a history of diarrhoea and different categories of the CD4 cell count. The stool samples were collected and examined for enteric parasites by microscopy and by special staining methods. The CD4 cell counts were estimated by using the FACS count system.

RESULTS

The intestinal parasitic pathogens were detected in 28% patients. Among all, Isospora appeared to have the highest prevalence (18%), followed by Giardia lamblia (5%), Strongyloides stercoralies (3%) and Cryptosporidium parvum (2%). In the HIV infected patients with a CD4 count of < 200 cells/μl, Isospora was the most commonly observed (56%) pathogen. The proportion of the opportunistic pathogens in the patients with CD4 counts of <200 cells/μl was significantly higher as compared to those in the other two groups of patients with CD4 counts of >200 respectively.

INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS

Parasitic infections were detected in 28% of the HIV infected patients and a low CD4 count was significantly associated with an opportunistic infection. The detection of the aetiologic pathogens might help the clinicians in deciding the appropriate management strategies.

Clinical and Microbiological Profile of HIV/AIDS Cases with Diarrhea in North India

Intestinal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) especially in developing countries. The present study was conducted to assess the clinical and microbiological spectrum in HIV/AIDS cases with diarrhea and to correlate the occurrence of such pathogens with stool characters, HIV seropositivity status, and CD4 counts. Stools from 154 HIV seropositive subjects and 50 HIV negative controls were examined by direct microscopy, fecal cultures, and serological tests (Clostridium difficile Toxin A, Cryptosporidium antigen, and Entamoeba histolytica antigen ELISA). CD4 T cell enumeration was done using FACS count (Becton Dickinson). The study showed a male preponderance (112 males and 42 females). Weakness, abdominal pain, and anorexia were the most common symptoms. Coccidian parasites were the most common cause of diarrhea in HIV seropositive cases. C. parvum was seen in 60.42% while Isospora belli in 9.03%. Amongst the bacterial pathogens C. difficile was detected in 18.06%, diarrheagenic Escherichia coli in 11.11%, and Shigella spp. in 2.78%. Pathogen isolation rates were more in HIV seropositive cases and subjects with low CD4 T lymphocyte counts. Regular monitoring of CD4 T lymphocyte counts and screening for enteric pathogens will help improve the quality of life for PLWHA.

Efficiency of diagnostic methods for correlation between prevalence of enteric protozoan parasites and HIV/AIDS status--an experience of a tertiary care hospital in East Delhi

Since the beginning of the AIDS pandemic, opportunistic infections have been recognized as common complications of HIV infection. Enteric protozoan parasitic infections are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in HIV infected patients. The present study is, therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence of these parasites and study their association with immune status in HIV patients with emphasis on the correlation between various diagnostic techniques to give an accurate diagnosis to avoid empirical treatment. This prospective study, carried out between November 2009 and May 2010 included all HIV seropositive patients presenting with diarrhea to the ART center. A total of 64 stool samples were analyzed by wet mount examination, three different staining techniques, and antigen detection by ELISA for various enteric protozoan infections. Total prevalence of enteric protozoan parasites was 30%. Among the total cases, Cryptosporidium was seen in 12% cases followed by Giardia, E. histolytica and Isospora belli. The maximum diagnostic yield for coccidian parasites was with safranin-methylene blue staining technique. Parasitic burden contributes towards early morbidity in HIV infection. This study provides important information about prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasites in HIV infection. A combination of procedures should be carried out for the screening of stool specimens of HIV patients for better diagnosis and management.

Environmental and demographic risk factors associated with the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in the Alice rural settlements of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: a pilot study

We undertook this study to identify the risk factors and prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in HIV-positive and HIV-negative diarrhea patients in the Alice rural settlement in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A total of 180 stool specimens (35 HIV-positive diarrhea, 125 HIV-negative diarrhea patients, and 20 apparently healthy subjects) were screened for cryptosporidiosis using an ELISA-based approach. Sociodemographic information, water supply, and animal contact were recorded for diarrhea-positive patients. The data were analyzed using Pearson's chi2-test and Fisher's exact test. Cryptosporidium antigen was detected in 122 of 180 specimens (overall prevalence=67.8%). In HIV-positive diarrhea patients, the age groups 31-43 years (mean age 36.5 years) and 70-82 years (mean age 75.8 years) had a higher prevalence (100%) of the antigen than age groups 18-30 years (mean age 23.2 years) and 83-95 years (mean age 88.8 years) (50.0%). In HIV-negative diarrhea patients, the prevalence was highest (87.5%) at ages 18-30 years (mean age 23.2 years) and lowest (35.7%) at ages 83-95 years (mean age 88.8 years). Cryptosporidium antigenemia was slightly higher in females (78.2%, mean age 46.7 years) than in males (71.1%, mean age 42.6 years), but the difference was not significant (p>0.05). No apparently healthy control subject was infected with Cryptosporidium. HIV-negative patients had a significantly higher prevalence of antigen than HIV-positive patients, with farm animals considered a possible risk factor. In HIV-positive diarrhea patients, the prevalence peak was detected in more low income patients (85.7%) than in high income patients (32%). The high infection rate of specific groups was associated with exposure to a contaminated water supply. The results indicate that Cryptosporidium infection is highly prevalent in adult fecal specimens from the Nkonkobe Municipality, an indication of active infection that is likely to emerge as a major human pathogen in this locality owing to socioeconomic changes that favor transmission.

Diffuse small bowel thickening in AIDS patient--a case report

BACKGROUND

Diarrhea is common in HIV/AIDS patients, caused by both classic enteric pathogens and different opportunistic agents. Infection with these different pathogens may lead to similar radiological findings, thus causing diagnostic confusion.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 30-yr-old female with AIDS presented with chronic diarrhea of 4 months duration. She had diffuse small bowel thickening present on CT scan of her abdomen, with stool examination showing no parasites. She was erroneously diagnosed as abdominal tuberculosis and given antituberculosis drugs with which she showed no improvement. Repeat stool examination later at a specialized laboratory revealed Cryptosporidium parvum infection.The patient was given an extended course of nitazoxanide treatment, as her stool examination was positive for Cryptosporidium parvum even after 2 weeks of drug consumption. Parasite clearance was documented after 10 weeks of treatment. Interestingly, the bowel thickening reversed with parasitological clearance.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryptosporidium parvum may lead to small bowel thickening in AIDS patients. This small bowel thickening may reverse following parasitological clearance.

Enteric Pathogens in HIV/AIDS from a Tertiary Care Hospital

BACKGROUND

Patterns of enteric infections in HIV in developing countries may differ in several important ways from developed countries, the knowledge of which can often guide therapy when resource limitations hamper the exact diagnosis of the etiological agent in HIV-associated diarrhea.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this study was to define and compare the microbial etiologies of diarrhea in HIV-1 infected and non infected patients and in HIV infected non diarrheal patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted between April 2007 and July 2007 at the Department of Microbiology, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi. Stool samples from 50 HIV seropositive cases with diarrhea (study group), 50 HIV seropositive cases without diarrhea (control group I), and 50 HIV seronegative cases with diarrhea (control group II) were examined. After the diagnosis of HIV infection was made, routine parasitological and bacteriological detection was done. An ELISA was used for the detection of Clostridium difficile toxin and Cryptosporidium antigen in stool samples.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of enteric parasitosis in the study group was 20% and the bacteria identified were Escherischia coli in 24% of the case, Clostridium difficile in 10% of the cases, Salmonella species and Vibrio cholerae in 4% of the cases, and Shigella species in 2% of the cases. Candida species was identified in 36% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Identification of the etiological agent of diarrhea in a patient with AIDS is very important as it can help in the institution of appropriate therapy and the reduction of morbidity and mortality in these patients.

Enteric Bacterial Pathogens in HIV-Infected Children With Acute Diarrhea in Mulago Referral and Teaching Hospital, Kampala, Uganda

Objective. HIV-infected children develop severe bacterial infections. We set out to determine the enteric bacterial pathogens in HIV-infected children and HIV-negative controls with acute diarrhea and their antimicrobial sensitivities. Methods. Children below 5 years of age with acute diarrhea were screened for HIV and their stools were analyzed by culture and use of antisera and the sensitivities of the pathogens were determined using the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. Results. Of the 190 children, 47 were HIV positive. The prevalence rates of the pathogens in HIV-infected and -uninfected children were 19% (9/47) and 27% (38/143), respectively; odds ratio = 0.64 (95% confidence interval 0.20-1.97), P value .396. The pathogens in HIV-infected and -uninfected children were Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella species. Most isolates were resistant to cotrimoxazole. Conclusions. Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella species significantly cause acute diarrhea in HIV-infected and -uninfected children and they are highly resistant to cotrimoxazole.

Correlation between CD4 counts of HIV patients and enteric protozoan in different seasons - an experience of a tertiary care hospital in Varanasi (India)

BACKGROUND

Protozoan infections are the most serious among all the superimposed infections in HIV patients and claim a number of lives every year. The line of treatment being different for diverse parasites necessitates a definitive diagnosis of the etiological agents to avoid empirical treatment. Thus, the present study has been aimed to elucidate the associations between diarrhoea and CD4 counts and to study the effect of HAART along with management of diarrhoea in HIV positive patients. This study is the first of its kind in this area where an attempt was made to correlate seasonal variation and intestinal protozoan infestations.

METHODS

The study period was from January 2006 to October 2007 wherein stool samples were collected from 366 HIV positive patients with diarrhea attending the ART centre, inpatient department and ICTC of S.S. hospital, I.M.S., B.H.U., Varanasi. Simultaneously, CD4 counts were recorded to assess the status of HIV infection vis-à-vis parasitic infection. The identification of pathogens was done on the basis of direct microscopy and different staining techniques.

RESULTS

Of the 366 patients, 112 had acute and 254 had chronic diarrhea. The percentages of intestinal protozoa detected were 78.5% in acute and 50.7% in chronic cases respectively. Immune restoration was observed in 36.6% patients after treatment on the basis of clinical observation and CD4 counts. In 39.8% of HIV positive cases Cryptosporidium spp. was detected followed by Microsporidia spp. (26.7%). The highest incidence of intestinal infection was in the rainy season. However, infection with Cyclospora spp. was at its peak in the summer. Patients with chronic diarrhea had lower CD4 cell counts. The maximum parasitic isolation was in the patients whose CD4 cell counts were below 200 cells/microl.

CONCLUSION

There was an inverse relation between the CD4 counts and duration of diarrhea. Cryptosporidium spp. was isolated maximum among all the parasites in the HIV patients. The highest incidence of infection was seen in the rainy season.

Prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni and enteric bacterial pathogens among hospitalized HIV infected versus non-HIV infected patients with diarrhoea in southern India

A prevalence study on Campylobacter jejuni and other enteric bacterial pathogens was carried out in 200 HIV infected and 200 non-HIV infected subjects with diarrhoeal symptoms at an AIDS Hospital in southern India. Diarrhoeal specimens were inoculated onto standard culture media as well as onto Columbia and Campylobacter blood agar media for C. jejuni isolation. All the C. jejuni isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using Kirby-Bauer's method. A significant difference in recovery rates was observed between the 2 groups in relation to C. jejuni (p < or = 0.02; 95% CI 5.5 (1-10) and Shigella spp. (p < or = 0.02; 95% CI 6.5 (1-12). 21 isolates of Shigella spp., 16 C. jejuni, 5 Salmonella typhi, 3 Arcobacter spp., 3 Yersinia enterocolitica, and 2 Aeromonas hydrophila were recovered from the HIV infected cases. All the C. jejuni isolates were sensitive to ciprofloxacin whereas 1 strain was resistant to nalidixic acid. Interestingly, all the 29 Shigella spp. (21 from HIV and 8 from non-HIV cases) were resistant to erythromycin and most were resistant to many other antibiotics used. Our observations underline the need for epidemiological investigations to screen C. jejuni and Shigella spp. in HIV infected subjects with diarrhoea and analyse their antibiograms periodically to minimize disease burden in HIV/AIDS.

Cryptosporidiosis in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries

Cryptosporidium is a coccidian protozoan parasite of the intestinal tract that causes severe and sometimes fatal watery diarrhea in immunocompromised patients, and self-limiting but prolonged diarrheal disease in immunocompetent individuals. It exists naturally in animals and can be zoonotic. Although cryptosporidiosis is a significant cause of diarrheal diseases in both developing and developed countries, it is more prevalent in developing countries and in tropical environments. We examined the epidemiology and disease burden of Cryptosporidium in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries by reviewing 23 published studies of Cryptosporidium and the etiology of diarrhea between 1986 and 2006. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in humans ranged from 1% to 37% with a median of 4%, while in animals it was different for different species of animals and geographic locations of the studies. Most cases of cryptosporidiosis occurred among children less than 7 years of age, and particularly in the first two years of life. The seasonality of Cryptosporidium varied depending on the geographic locations of the studies, but it was generally most prevalent in the rainy season. The most commonly identified species was Cryptosporidium parvum while C. hominis was detected in only one study from Kuwait. The cumulative experience from Saudi Arabia and four neighboring countries (Kuwait, Oman, Jordan and Iraq) suggest that Cryptosporidium is an important cause of diarrhea in humans and cattle. However, the findings of this review also demonstrate the limitations of the available data regarding Cryptosporidium species and strains in circulation in these countries.

Factors contributing to spontaneous Enterocytozoon bieneusi infection in simian immunodeficiency virus-infected macaques

BACKGROUND

A cohort of SIV-infected macaques had been used to investigate the effect of dietary supplement, immune status, SIV/AIDS disease progression and serum micronutrients levels on spontaneous acquisition of Enterocytozoon bieneusi infection in SIV-infected macaques.

METHODS

Twenty-four SIV-infected macaques were randomized into 2 groups. One group received a vitamin/mineral supplementation and a second group received a placebo. Both groups were examined for E. bieneusi infection.

RESULTS

SIV-infected macaques were more prone to acquire E. bieneusi with the progression of SIV/AIDS, and the increased shedding of infectious spores was directly associated with decreased CD4 lymphocyte and increased circulating SIV, in both supplemented and unsupplemented groups of animals. Dietary supplementation, body composition factors and serum micronutrients levels however had no association with the acquisition of E. bieneusi infection in these animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Acquisition of E. bieneusi infection is related to SIV disease progression, CD4 counts and viral load but independent of changes in body composition and serum micronutrient levels.

Symptom management of HIV-related diarrhea by using normal foods: A randomized controlled clinical trial

The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to determine the efficacy of a dietary intervention to reduce the frequency of bowel movements and improve stool consistency as compared with subjects assigned to a control group. The study enrolled HIV patients with a history of three or more episodes of diarrhea for 3 weeks or more. Seventy-five subjects were enrolled, of which 38 were randomized to the treatment group and 37 to the control group. Six study sessions were scheduled over a 24-week period. At 24 weeks, the stool frequency reduced 28% in the treatment group and 15% in the control group (F = 9.22, p < .001) and stool consistency improved 20% in the treatment group and 8% in the control group (F = 9.98, p < .001). The results showed that the intervention was effective in reducing stool frequency and improving stool consistency in HIV patients with chronic diarrhea for up to 6 months of treatment.

Clinical trial recruitment and retention of a vulnerable population: HIV patients with chronic diarrhea

This article describes the recruitment and retention strategies implemented for a prospective, randomized, clinical trial conducted at a single study facility. The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of a nutritional intervention to reduce the episodes of diarrhea in patients with the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome. This article reviews the challenges faced by the research team during the conduct of the study and discusses the approaches implemented to reduce the barriers to study participation.

Bacterial diarrhea in persons with HIV infection, United States, 1992-2002

BACKGROUND

To describe trends in bacterial diarrhea among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons during 1992-2002, we examined data from a longitudinal record review study of persons with HIV infection who were receiving medical care in >100 medical facilities in 9 major United States cities.

METHODS

An analysis was performed using data from 44,778 persons who were followed up for a mean of 2.6 years. We calculated incidence rates and rate ratios for bacterial diarrhea, by stage of HIV disease, and determined odds ratios (ORs) to compare bacterial diarrhea diagnosis in 2002 versus 1992.

RESULTS

The mean annual incidence of bacterial diarrhea was 7.2 cases per 1000 person-years. The incidence of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, the most common bacterial cause of diarrhea, was 4.1 cases per 1000 person-years. Compared with persons without AIDS, persons with AIDS were more likely to have bacterial diarrhea (incidence rate ratio, 1.3-9.9, varying by clinical versus immunologic AIDS and type of bacterial diarrhea). Between 1992 and 2002, the overall rate of bacterial diarrhea in persons with clinical AIDS decreased (OR, 0.4; 95% confidence interval, 0.2-0.6). During the same period, bacterial diarrhea rates among other persons in the analysis did not significantly change.

CONCLUSIONS

C. difficile is the most common recognized cause of bacterial diarrhea among persons infected with HIV. The risk for bacterial diarrhea increases with increased severity of HIV disease. Health care professionals should be aware that patients with AIDS are at increased risk for bacterial diarrhea, and they should reinforce recommendations for decreasing the chances of acquiring bacterial diarrhea.

Diarrhea in liver transplant recipients: etiology and management

Diarrhea is common after liver transplantation (LT). The true incidence of diarrhea in liver transplant recipients is unknown but possibly ranges from 10% to 43% based on a few published studies in other solid organ and bone marrow transplantation. Infectious etiologies, including cytomegalovirus (CMV), Clostridium difficile, and occasional atypical intestinal infections, are the most common causes. Diarrhea is also a frequent side effect of immunosuppressive medications. To variable extents, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), cyclosporine A (CSA), tacrolimus, and sirolimus are all known to be associated with diarrhea. Rarely, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), lymphoproliferative disorder, de novo inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or colon cancer may present as diarrhea. Flare-up of preexisting IBD is also not uncommon after LT. However, the cause of acute diarrhea remains unidentified in 1 of 3 patients. This review summarizes the literature and provides recommendations on the management of acute diarrhea after LT. Although our focus is on LT, the etiology and management recommendations apply to most transplant recipients.

The efficacy and safety of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG on prolonged, noninfectious diarrhea in HIV Patients on antiretroviral therapy: a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study

PURPOSE

The aim of this placebo-controlled, crossover study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) in ameliorating gastrointestinal symptoms in HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy.

METHOD

Infectious causes for diarrhea (bacteria, ova, parasites, and viruses including cryptosporidium, microsporidia, and cyclospora) were excluded with fecal samples before the study. HIV-infected patients with diarrhea for more than 1 month received in randomized order probiotic LGG preparation (containing viable LGG 1-5 x 1010 cfu/dose) and placebo twice a day for 2 weeks. Gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed daily and included the daily number of bowel movements, classification of stool consistency (watery, semi-watery, loose, firm, or foaming), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) of gastrointestinal symptoms (flatulence, stomach pain, bloating disorders, general well-being).

RESULTS

Seventeen HIV-infected patients completed the study. There were no significant differences between the treatment groups in the frequency or the consistency of diarrhea. In the VAS assessments of gastrointestinal symptoms, no difference between LGG and placebo could be detected. No adverse events were reported. The number of HIV RNA copies in the blood and CD4 cell counts remained stable during the study.

CONCLUSION

Probiotic LGG preparation was well-tolerated in HIV infected patients. No significant differences in noninfectious diarrhea or gastrointestinal symptoms compared to placebo could be observed in this crossover study.

Testing strategies to reduce diarrhea in persons with HIV using traditional Chinese medicine: acupuncture and moxibustion

Diarrhea affects more than 60% of persons living with HIV/AIDS. Diarrhea can be caused by pathogens, neoplastic diseases, side effects of medications, malabsorption, and/or enteropathy. Activities of daily living and quality of life are often affected by HIV/AIDS-related diarrhea. Traditional Chinese medical interventions such as acupuncture and moxibustion show promise in the area of gastrointestinal symptom management. The purposes of this study were to (a) determine the influence of acupuncture and moxibustion in reducing the frequency of diarrhea and increasing stool consistency in HIV-infected men with chronic diarrhea (defined as three or more episodes of watery, liquid, or loose stools in a 24-hour period for 3 weeks or more), (b) ascertain the feasibility of the methodology for a future prospective randomized controlled trial, and (c) determine sample size estimate for a prospective randomized controlled trial. Using a time-series design, 15 HIV-positive men with chronic diarrhea received the same acupuncture/moxibustion treatment for six sessions over a 3-week period. Each participant maintained a daily stool frequency/consistency and medication diary. All treatments were administered by a licensed acupuncturist trained in traditional Chinese medicine. Based on the intent to treat analysis comparing the change in stool frequency from baseline (Week 1) to Week 3 and Week 4, stool frequency reduced approximately one episode per day (Week 3: p < .001; Week 4: p < .005). Stool consistency also improved, from baseline to Week 3 and Week 4, by more than 1 point on Hansen's stool consistency scale. Acupuncture and moxibustion are promising modalities for the symptom management of chronic diarrhea in HIV/AIDS. The results of this pilot study also establish the feasibility of a larger study and provide the empirical basis to serve as preliminary data from which to estimate statistical power and sample size for a larger efficacy study, inclusive of women as well as men.

Parasitic infections of the gastrointestinal tract

This article updates recent advances in the body of knowledge of diagnosis and treatment of intestinal parasites. The articles focus on the manifestations of disease in the immunocompetent adult host from developed countries. Specific pathogens discussed are Giardia lamblia and Dientamoeba fragilis, Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dipar, Blastocystis hominis, Cyclospora cayetanensis, and Cryptosporidium parvum.

Ribovirus emergentes implicados en las gastroenteritis

Los virus se sitúan en un lugar preferente entre los agentes causales de diarrea aguda, en particular en la infancia. En este contexto el papel de los astrovirus, coronavirus, torovirus y picobirnavirus es emergente. Los astrovirus se han detectado en las heces entre el 1,2 y el 20 % de niños con diarrea que requieren atención médica en una gran variedad de localizaciones geográficas. Se han descrito brotes epidémicos en escuelas, guarderías y salas pediátricas, y son más frecuentes entre niños de menos de 3 años. En climas templados se ha demostrado una mayor incidencia invernal, y en climas tropicales ésta es similar en todo el año, siendo su transmisión preferente por vía orofecal. Se han reconocido siete serotipos de astrovirus humanos, de los cuales el más común es el uno. Los viriones pueden eliminarse durante amplios períodos y detectarse mediante microscopia electrónica. En estudios epidemiológicos se emplean técnicas de enzimoinmunoanálisis para detectar el antígeno común de grupo y se han desarrollado también técnicas basadas en la detección de ácidos nucleicos mediante hibridación y amplificación (reacción en cadena de la polimerasa).

Los coronavirus entéricos se han asociado con frecuencia con enfermedad gastrointestinal en recién nacidos y niños menores de 12 años. El papel de los torovirus y picobirnavirus como causa de gastroenteritis es también emergente. Se necesitan estudios epidemiológicos para determinar su verdadera frecuencia en la comunidad, identificar sus mecanismos de transmisión y explicar la fisiopatología de los cuadros provocados por estos agentes.

Ordinary and opportunistic enteropathogens associated with diarrhea in Senegalese adults in relation to human immunodeficiency virus serostatus

OBJECTIVES

A survey was conducted in Dakar, Senegal, to identify major types and prevalences of bacteria, parasites, fungi, and Rotaviruses associated with diarrhea in relation to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serostatus with the goal to provide guidance to physicians for case management.

METHODS

Etiologic agents were identified in a case control study: cases were HIV-infected patients with diarrhea (HIV+ D+) and HIV seronegative patients with diarrhea (HIV D+); controls were HIV-infected patients without diarrhea (HIV+ D ) and seronegative controls without diarrhea (HID D ). Ordinary enteric pathogens were identified by conventional methods. Different Escherichia coli pathotypes were characterized by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), identification of HEp-2 cell adherence pattern, Sereny test, GM1-ELISA, and the suckling mouse assay. Opportunistic parasites, such as Cryptosporidium and Microsporidium, were identified by the Kinyoun method and trichromic stain of Weber, respectively. Rotaviruses were identified with a commercial latex agglutination kit. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out by the disk diffusion method.

RESULTS

Among the 594 patients examined, 158 were HIV+ D+, 121 were HIV2 D+, 160 were HIV+ D , and 155 were HIV D . The main etiologies of diarrhea were different according to HIV serostatus of patients. In immunocompetent adults the main causes of diarrhea were Shigella sp (12.4%), Entamoeba histolytica(10.7%), Salmonella enterica (6.6%), and Giardia (4.9%). In the immunocompromised host the more frequent pathogens were enteroaggregative E. coli (19.6%), Microsporidium (9.4%), Cryptosporidium sp (8.2%), Rotavirus (8.2%), Shigella sp (7.6%), Candida albicans (7.6%), E. histolytica (5.1%), S. enterica (4.4%), and Isospora belli (4.4%). Also, Blastocystis hominis has to be considered as an opportunistic parasite, because it was identified only in HIV-infected patients, with higher prevalence in adults with diarrhea (2.5% in HIV+ D+ patients; 0.6% in HIV+ D patients). High level of asymptomatic carriage of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura and some cases of multiple infections were observed. Fungi, Cryptosporidium sp and Microsporidium sp, were often identified in patients with low CD4 counts (range, 79 250 cells/mL). Independently from HIV-serostatus, CD4 count was lower in diarrheic persons, suggesting that diarrhea is a debilitating illness and that effective management of diarrhea can prevent immunosuppression. Isolated enteropathogenic strains displayed high resistance to most antibiotics used in Senegal for treating diarrhea (ampicillin, tetracycline, cotrimoxazole); they were susceptible to amikacin, gentamicin, and norfloxacin.

CONCLUSION

These epidemiologic data suggest that guidelines for the management of diarrhea during HIV infection in Dakar should be updated.

Microsporidial AIDS cholangiopathy due to Encephalitozoon intestinalis: case report and review

Microsporidia are increasingly recognized as opportunistic infections in immunodeficient patients, predominantly patients with AIDS. The two microsporidia most commonly associated with disease in AIDS patients are Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis (previously known as Septata intestinalis). The most common clinical presentation of microsporidiosis in AIDS patients is diarrhea, most commonly caused by the Enterocytozoon bieneusi species. Encephalitozoon intestinalis is a recently described species that has been reported to cause disseminated human infection including cholangitis. We report a case of AIDS cholangiopathy that presented with abdominal pain and cholestatic liver tests. Ultrasound examination and ERCP revealed a picture of sclerosing cholangitis. Bile samples obtained at ERCP were negative for microsporidia; stool studies for microsporidia and cryptosporidia were also negative. No organisms were identified on routine light microscopy of the biopsy specimens from the duodenum, ampulla, and bile duct. E. intestinalis spores were demonstrated in the bile duct biopsies, by methylene blue and azure 11 staining and confirmed by electron microscopy. Albendazole therapy was successful in eradicating E. intestinalis with clinical improvement and improvement in CD4 count. However, the cholangiographic picture did not improve and repeat cholangiography revealed progressive bile duct injury. Albendazole therapy was delayed and may have been too late to prevent bile duct damage; the drug had to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for compassionate use. This is an unusual case of sclerosing cholangitis caused by an unusual organism and requiring biliary sphincterotomy and stent placement for progressive stricturing despite eradication of the infection.

HIV and diarrhea in the era of HAART: 1998 New York State hospitalizations

BACKGROUND

This study reflects an attempt to identify the causes of diarrheal illness in hospitalized HIV patients in light of therapeutic advancements in HIV management.

METHODS

The study identifies the various etiologies associated with diarrhea among HIV patients hospitalized in New York State in 1998. Data for this study were extracted from the New York State Department of Health Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System. Pathogens recognized to cause diarrhea in persons with HIV and general codes identifying diarrhea were examined by using the principal and all secondary diagnoses based on the International Classification of Diseases 9th Revision Clinical Modification codes.

RESULTS

Based on the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System data set, more than 15,000 patients with HIV were hospitalized in 1998. Among the HIV patients hospitalized, 2.8% were admitted with a diarrheal diagnosis. The following diagnoses occurred the most frequently among HIV patients hospitalized with a diarrheal illness: Clostridium difficile (51.3%), other protozoal diseases (18.1%), and other organisms, not elsewhere specified (11.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

In the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy, diarrhea is still an occurring symptom in HIV patients. Despite the relatively small percentage of hospitalizations attributed to diarrhea, clinicians must remember that even "mild" to "moderate" diarrhea can have a debilitating impact among persons with the symptom.

A double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase II study to assess the safety and efficacy of orally administered SP-303 for the symptomatic treatment of diarrhea in patients with AIDS

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and effectiveness of orally administered SP-303 in patients with AIDS and diarrhea.

METHODS

This is a multicenter, phase II, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study. HIV-positive subjects with a history of a CD4 count <200 or an AIDS-defining illness were admitted to an inpatient study unit and screened for diarrhea defined as at least three abnormal (i.e., soft or watery) stools and >200 g of abnormal stool weight over a 24-h period. Subjects discontinued all antidiarrheal agents >24 h before enrollment. Stool samples were studied for routine pathogens. Subjects received 500 mg p.o. of SP-303 or placebo every 6 h for 96 h (4 days). Stool frequency and weights were recorded. Subjects were monitored for symptoms and side effects and were seen 1 wk later in follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 26 subjects received SP-303, and 25 received placebo. There were no significant demographic differences between treatment arms. A total of 41 subjects (80%) were receiving antiretroviral therapy and 39 subjects (77%) were receiving at least one protease inhibitor. Stool studies revealed no pathogens in 48 of 51 patients (94%). There were no serious adverse events or laboratory abnormalities. The SP-303 treatment group demonstrated a mean reduction from baseline stool weight of 451 g/24 h versus 150 g/24 h with placebo on day 4 of treatment (p = 0.14), and a mean reduction in abnormal stool frequency of three abnormal stools in 24 h versus two in 24 h in the placebo group (p = 0.30). Daily measures analysis over 4 days of treatment demonstrated that SP-303 subjects had a significant reduction in stool weight (p = 0.008) and abnormal stool frequency (p = 0.04) when compared to placebo-treated subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

SP-303 is safe and well tolerated. These results suggest that SP-303 may be effective in reducing stool weight and frequency in patients with AIDS and diarrhea.

Persistent diarrhea in the returned traveler

In conclusion, the causes of chronic diarrhea in the returned traveler are protean. Careful evaluation requires an understanding of where the traveler has been, when they were there, the type of diarrheal illness, medications taken, and knowledge of the patients' other medical problems. Protozoa, particularly G. lamblia, C. parvum, and C. cayatenensis, are among the more commonly identified agents. If the patient is immunocompromised, microsporidia and Isospora become more likely, and a prior history of antimicrobial use raises the possibility of C. difficile colitis. Occasionally helminths, which establish intimate contact with the intestinal mucosa, may also cause prolonged diarrhea. If these and other gastrointestinal insults, such as tropical sprue, small bowel overgrowth, lactose intolerance, and processes unrelated to travel are excluded by more invasive studies or clinical history, the patient can be reassured that idiopathic chronic diarrhea is usually self-limited.