P53 PROTEIN LEVEL AND EVIDENCE OF ONGOING COAGULATION AMONG HIV-INFECTED PERSONS ACCESSING TREATMENT AT UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR TEACHING HOSPITAL NIGERIA

Abstract Objective The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has been associated with hemostatic disturbance. In Nigeria, particularly Calabar, not much is known about the nature of these derangement among infected subjects. This study was carried out with a view to assessing tumour suppressing activity and ongoing coagulation among HIV-infected subjects. The data presented is a side product of investigation on morbidity indicators among persons living with HIV infection in Calabar, Nigeria. Result The CD4 cell count and P53 protein level reduced while D-dimer level increased in HIV infection. Platelet count also reduced while platelet distribution width increased with the condition. While CD4 cell count improved with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy administration, D-dimer level, mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width reduced. This study observed reduced tumour suppression and increased coagulation activities alongside immunosuppression in HIV infection. Keywords: Coagulation, HIV infection, immunosuppression.