Evaluation of Stavudine (d4T)-Containing Antiretroviral Regimen on Serum Lipids in HIV-Infected Children in North West, Nigeria

Abstract: Effective evaluation of HIV antiretroviral regimen is very crucial for the achievement of an increased level of CD4 Count and reduction in the viral replication. The present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of stavudine-containing antiretroviral regimens on serum total cholesterol and triglycerides in HIV infected children in north-western Nigeria. Sixty HIV-infected children were divided into four (4) groups of fifteen (15) children each; 0-11 months, 1-4 years, 5-7 years and 6-11 years and 60 age matched HIV non-infected children were also recruited for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on co-morbid medical conditions and mode of HIV transmission while serum total cholesterol and triglycerides were evaluated before treatment initiation and three months after. Mother-To child transmission of HIV (MTCT) was the major route of HIV infection in the HIV infected children with majority of the children been mixed fed. Total cholesterol levels were significantly decreased (p<0.05) while triglycerides were significantly higher (p<0.05) when compared with control groups at baseline. Three months after treatment initiation, a significant increase (p<0.05) was observed in the level of total cholesterol in the older age groups while a significant decrease was observed in total triglycerides level (P<0.05) to non infected levels which was more pronounced in the 0-11 months and 1-4 years age groups of the HIV-infected children when compared to baseline values. Evaluation and Monitoring of metabolic abnormalities in children on d4T-containing antiretroviral regimes can prevent premature treatment failure, poor adherence and drug induced hyperlipidemia. Keywords: HIV/AIDS; Antiretroviral; Stavudine; Total Cholesterol; Triglycerides; Mother-to child transmission of HIV; North western Nigeria. Title: Evaluation of Stavudine (d4T)-Containing Antiretroviral Regimen on Serum Lipids in HIV-Infected Children in North West, Nigeria Author: Nafisatu Kabir, Halima Kabir, Muhammad. K. Atiku, Suleiman. Y. Isah International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Research Publish Journals

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