Spectrum of opportunistic infections and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in the era of highly active anti-retroviral treatment in Dawro Zone hospital: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVES: The study aims to elucidate the spectrum, magnitude and determining factors of the major opportunistic infections in PLHIV patients currently receiving HAART. RESULTS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Tercha Hospital from 744 patient cards. The overall all prevalence of opportunistic infection was 658 (88.4%) developed OIs. Pulmonary tuberculosis, 118 (18%), severe community acquired pneumonia 107 (16.3%) and oral candidiasis 103 (15.6%) were the most common opportunistic infections. Disease stage [AOR = 3.22:95% CI 1.76-5.66], CD4 level [AOR = 2.53:95% CI 1.19-5.37], drug adherence [AOR = 3.02:95% CI 1.57-5.77] and hemoglobin [AOR = 2.49:95% CI 1.34-4.62] showed significant association with OIs. Higher magnitude of opportunistic infection with considerable proportion of AIDS defining illness was detected. So empowerment of skilled man power, health education and provision of antimicrobials is mandatory.