Frequency of pediatric HIV infection among high-risk children admitted to a tertiary care hospital at Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND

Pediatric HIV remains a significant public health concern, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Pakistan. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for improving outcomes. This study aimed to determine the frequency of pediatric HIV infections among high-risk children admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Sukkur, Sindh.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

METHODOLOGY

A total of 125 high-risk children were screened for HIV via the HIV 1/2 rapid test cassette. Blood samples were collected, processed, and tested following standard safety protocols. Only screening tests were performed, and confirmatory tests such as PCR, CD4 counts, and genetic workups were not available.

RESULTS

Among 125 children, 12 (9.6%) tested HIV-positive. A male predominance was observed (58.3% male, 41.7% female). Three-fourths of HIV-positive cases were from Sindh, and one-fourth were from Balochistan. 50% had a history of unsafe injection practices, and 41.7% had a history of blood transfusion. None of the HIV-positive children had HIV-positive parents. Two HIV-positive children died during the study period. All tested negative for hepatitis B and C; 16.7% had tuberculosis co-infection. Only 33.3% of HIV-positive children were fully vaccinated.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the prevalence of pediatric HIV in Sukkur, emphasizing the need for enhanced screening, confirmatory diagnostics, and preventive strategies to curb transmission. The absence of advanced diagnostic facilities limits comprehensive disease evaluation and management.