Prevalence of Skin and Psychiatric Disorders among People Living with HIV in Kaduna: A Cross-Sectional Study
TL;DR
Skin disorders are prevalent among HIV patients in Kaduna and are associated with viral suppression and ART regimen, and routine dermatologic and mental health screening should be integrated into HIV care to improve patient outcomes.
Abstract
Background : HIV/AIDS remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria. Dermatologic and psychiatric manifestations are common but often under-recognized complications in people living with HIV (PLWH). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and types of skin and psychiatric disorders in HIV-infected individuals and evaluate their relationship with viral load and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods : A cross-sectional study was conducted at two HIV treatment centers in Kaduna State: Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital and 461 Nigerian Air Force Hospital. HIV-positive patients with skin disorders and documented viral load results were recruited through convenience sampling. Dermatological diagnoses were made by a consultant dermatologist, and psychological assessments were conducted using the GHQ-12 screening tool. Statistical analysis included Chi-square testing to determine associations between variables. Results : Of the 270 patients enrolled, 139 (51.5%) had skin disorders. Papulosquamous disorders were the most frequent (13.3%), followed by pigmentary disorders (7.8%), eczematous dermatitis (6.7%), and fungal infections (5.2%). A significant association was found between skin disorders and viral load suppression (p = 0.008), with unsuppressed viral load more common in patients with dermatologic conditions. ART regimen also showed significant association (p = 0.038). Analysis of the GHQ scores showed that 12% of all the participants have a high GHQ score, suggestive of a psychological disorder. The corresponding percentage for patients with skin disorders is 15% compared to those without skin disorders, 9.16%. Conclusion : Skin disorders are prevalent among HIV patients in Kaduna and are associated with viral suppression and ART regimen. Given their psychosocial and clinical implications, routine dermatologic and mental health screening should be integrated into HIV care to improve patient outcomes.