Anxiety and depression among HIV patients of the infectious disease department of Conakry University Hospital in 2018.

Anxiety and depression continue to be significant comorbidities for people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression disorder among HIV patients at Conakry, Guinea. In this cross-sectional study, we described socio-demographic, clinical and psychosocial data related to anxiety and depression in 160 HIV patients of the University Teaching Hospital, Conakry, Guinea. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used for measuring depression and anxiety in the prior month. The HADS score of ⩾8 was used to identify possible cases of depression and anxiety. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. The prevalence of comorbid depression and anxiety among HIV patients was 8.1% and the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms among HIV-infected patients was 13.8% and 16.9%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that individuals having BMI ⩽ 18 (AOR = 3.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.37-9.57) and who did not receive antiretroviral treatment (AOR = 18.93, 95% CI 1.88-188.81) were significantly more likely to have depressive symptoms. Similarly, having age <40 years (AOR = 2.81, 95% CI 1.04-7.58) was also significantly associated with anxiety. Prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression was high in these HIV patients. This suggests a need for training on the screening and management of anxiety and depression among HIV patients.

[Report of a case of poisoning by double snake bite with neurotrope venom at the National Donka Hospital, Conakry (Guinea)]. / À propos d'un cas d'envenimation par double morsure d'un serpent à venin neurotrope à l'hôpital national Donka, Conakry (Guinée).

Poisoning by snake bites remains an important cause of death in developing countries and in Africa in particular. Positive diagnosis is mostly easy because of the interrogation of the family and the local reactions that occur in the bite area. However, it is easy to know the type of the snake because the description by the victim is often unclear. We report a case of poisoning due to double bite by an unidentified snake that led to a clinical picture dominated by neurological and respiratory signs, suggestive of a neurotoxin poisoning in a young man living in rural area. Despite the delay in the management due to the ritual traditional treatment, the symptoms improved after the administration of polyvalent anti-venom. This observation raises the delicate problem of identification of snakes from the clinical symptomatology observed, considering their variety

[Acute Flaccid Paralysis Secondary to Poliomyelitis: 11 Years of Monitoring in Guinea (2005-2015)]. / Paralysies flasques aiguës dues à des poliovirus : bilan de 11 années de surveillance en Guinée (2005-2015).

The sustained worldwide use of the two available types of polio vaccines has significantly reduced the incidence of this disease. Our main objective is to report a 11-year monitoring period for acute flaccid paralysis secondary to poliovirus in Guinea. It was a retrospective descriptive study for all cases of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) in which poliovirus was isolated by stool examination. During 11 years, 768 cases of AFP, including 8 cases of acute anterior poliomyelitis were collected at a frequency of 1%. The average age was 3.5 years with extremes of 1 year and 6 years, the most represented age group was 0-4 years with 7 cases. Six mothers were housewives doing gold panning as a revenue generating activity. The vaccine virus (serotype 2) was the most isolated with 6 cases.

L'utilisation soutenue à l'échelle mondiale des deux types de vaccins antipoliomyélitiques disponibles a considérablement diminué l'incidence de cette affection. Il s'agit ici d'une étude rétrospective de type descriptive, portant sur tous les cas de paralysie flasque aiguë (PFA) due aux poliovirus en Guinée chez lesquels le poliovirus a été isolé des selles, faisant l'état des lieux de 11 années de surveillance de la PFA. En 11 ans, 768 cas de PFA, dont huit cas de poliomyélite antérieure aiguë ont été enregistrés, soit une fréquence de 1 %. L'âge moyen était de 3,5 ans [1­6 ans]. La tranche d'âge de 0­4 ans était la plus représentée avec 7 cas. La majeure partie (6 cas) des mères des enfants étaient des agricultrices exerçant l'orpaillage. Les souches majoritairement isolées étaient dérivées du vaccin VDPV2.

Tetanus: epidemiology and Factors Associated with Death in the Departement of Tropical and infectious diseases of Donka National Hospital, Guinea.

In developing countries, tetanus remains a public health problem because of its frequency, severity, and still high mortality. The objective of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of patients hospitalized for tetanus and to identify the factors associated with dying from it. This retrospective, descriptive, and analytical study reviewed hospital records of all patients, of all ages and genders who were treated for tetanus in our department over a 5-year period. Among 3549 patients during the study period, 75 had tetanus (2.11%), and 71 of them were included in our study. The median age of patients was 35 years (range: 11-70 years) with a male prevalence of 80%. The most frequently affected socio-professional categories were students (21.1%), farmers (18.3%), workers (15.5%), and shopkeepers and tradespeople (15.5%). The main entry points were post-traumatic (40.9%), cutaneous (33.8%), and post-surgical (16.90%). Paroxysm (95.8%), trismus (93.0%), generalized contracture (67.6%), and dysphagia (46.5%) were the most frequent signs. Among these cases, 40.9% were severe (40.85%), 49.3% moderate (49.30%), and 9.6% benign. We recorded 34 deaths (48%). Factors associated with death were age> 60 years (P = 0.01), fever (P = 0.01), hypertension (P = 0.02), and HIV infection (P = 0.01). Tetanus remains a frequent disease with high lethality. Death is associated with specific factors that should be taken into account in the criteria for assessing its prognosis.

Depression and HIV: Epidemiological and clinical aspects at the Bamako University Hospital (Mali).

Depression plays an important role in clinical worsening, morbidity and mortality related to HIV/AIDS. To describe the epidemiological and clinical aspects of depressive disorders in people with HIV in Mali. This prospective study took place in the department of psychiatry and infectious diseases at the Bamako University Hospital from July 2004 through October, 2005 and included all HIV-positive antiretroviral-naive patients with depression, diagnosed according to ICD-10 criteria. The study included 84 HIV-positive patients with a depressive disorder; our total population of HIV-positive patients was 316 during the study period, for a prevalence rate of 26.7 % in this population. The mean age of these depressed patients was 36.7 ± 8.5 years (range: 20-57); 63.1% were women, 47.7% had not attended or at least not completed primary school; 66.6% were married, and 92.9% lived in urban areas. Sad mood, anxiety, and refusal to eat were reported by 27.7%, 10.9%, and 9.1%, respectively, as a reason for consultation. Depression was associated with an anxiety disorder in 33 (39.3%) and a delusional disorder in 14 (16.7%). Severe depression was associated with low BMI and at a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3. Depression was found at a high frequency in our study. Its detection, operational research about it, and improved management are recommended to improve the health of people living with HIV.

Cholera in pregnant women: the 2012 epidemic at the reference center at the Donka National Hospital in Conakry.

Cholera is an epidemic diarrheal disease transmitted through the digestive tract; it can cause obstetric complications in pregnant women. The objective of this study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of cholera in pregnant women, as well as its course, during the 2012 epidemic in Conakry. This retrospective, descriptive studied examined the records of this epidemic over a 7-month period (from May 15 to December 15, 2012). Of 2,808 cholera patients at our hospital, 80 were pregnant, that is, 2.85%. Their mean age was 30 years [range: 15-45 years], 94% were from Conakry (94%), and 69% were in the third trimester of pregnancy. Choleriform diarrhea and vomiting were the main signs, found respectively in 100% and 95% of the women; dehydration was mild for 16%, moderate for 45%, and severe for 39%. Support consisted of rehydration, by plans A (16%), B (45%) or C (39%) and antibiotic treatment based on erythromycin (85%), doxycycline (14%), or azithromycin (1%). Other drugs that were used included phloroglucinol-trimethylphloroglucinol (Spasfon(®)) for 45%, acetaminophen for 65%, and iron/folic acid for 1% of cases. The major obstetric complications were 4 intrauterine deaths (5%), 2 cases of threatened abortion (2%), 1 preterm delivery (1%), and 1 maternal death. The cholera outbreak in 2012 affected a large number of pregnant women in Conakry, most during their third trimester. The classic clinical manifestations were associated with obstetric complications and maternal-fetal risks.

Tetanus in women of childbearing age in the infectious disease department in the national hospital of Conakry (Guinea).

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the hospital prevalence rate of tetanus in women of childbearing age in the infectious disease department of Donka CHU in Conakry and to describe their sociodemographic characteristics and outcomes. METHODOLOGY: This descriptive retrospective study examined the records of all patients aged 15 to 495 years hospitalized for tetanus over a 10-year period. RESULTS: During the study period, 74555 patients were hospitalized - 239 for tetanus. In all, 22 woman of childbearing age had tetanus, that is, 9.2%. Their mean age was 325 years. Most of the women were married (13/22) and lived in Conakry (18/22); 165 were housewives, and 65 patients had begun but not completed the required vaccinations. The incubation period was >75 days for 165 patients. Tetanus infection resulted from medical procedures for 9 women and trauma for 6. We recorded 125 deaths. The average duration of hospitalization was 215 days. CONCLUSION: Preventing tetanus requires a reinforcement of vaccination drives and especially the implementation of policies for booster reminders.

[Epidemic meningitis in 2013 in Republic of Guinea: Nesseria meningitidis W135 emergence]. / Epidémie de méningite en République de Guinée en 2013 : émergence de Nesseria meningitidis W135.

A prospective study conducted from 1 January to 31 December 2013 described a meningitis epidemic in Republic of Guinea. The identification of the germs was based on Gram stain, latex agglutination and culture. During the study period, 480 suspected cases of meningitis were reported by 21 health districts. The average age was 18±8 years and 62.5% were men. The vaccination status was unknown in all patients. The largest attack rates were found in Siguiri (3.2 per 10,000), Kankan (2.6 per 10,000) and Dabola (3.9 per 10,000). The locality of Kintinian in Siguiri was the only one to cross the epidemic threshold. The identified microorganisms were Haemophilus influenzae (1 time), Pneumococcus (2 times), Neisseria meningitidis A (4 times) and W135 (10 times) with a total of 17 positive samples. All of these germs were sensitive to chloramphenicol, ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin. The average hospital stay was 6.5±2 days. The lethality was 13.8%. This meningitis epidemic was characterized by the emergence of Neisseria meningitidis W135. The monitoring of this serogroup should be increased and future vaccination strategies must include it presence.

2014 Anthrax epidemic in Koubia prefecture, Guinea-Conakry.

Anthrax disease is an anthropozoonosis caused by a Gram-positive bacterium, Bacillus anthracis. Our objective was to describe the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic features of the 2014 epidemic in Koubia prefecture. This retrospective study examined all of the anthrax cases reported in Fafaya, Koubia Prefecture. In March and April 2014, there were 39 cases of human anthrax reported, for an incidence of 1.135%. The mean age was 20.9 (± 18.3) with a sex ratio of 2.54 (28/11) in favor of men. Seventy-six percent (23/39) were single. More than one half were students (53.8%). The main clinical signs were fever in 71, 8% (n = 28 /), papules 59% (n = 23), vesicles of 59% (n = 23) Digestive and cutaneous signs represented 35.9 % and 64.1% respectively; 35% had ingested contaminated meat and 17.95% were in direct contact with a sick animal. We didn't find any correlation between the mode of infection and onset of signs. The fatality rate was 28.21%. The 2014 epidemic of anthrax disease in the Koubia prefecture was marked by a high incidence and lethality. Clinical manifestations were cutaneaous and digestive. These results may serve further interventions to fight against anthrax disease. They should mainly focus on an awareness of peasants, surveillance and vaccination of cattle. Other studies seem to be necessary.

[Evaluation of antiretroviral treatment in HIV infected adult in the department of dermatology venereology of the Donka national hospital]. / Evaluation du traitement antiretroviral chez l'adulte infecte par le VIH au service de dermatologie venereologie de l'hopital national Donka.

If the use of highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) have largely improved survival, morbidity and the quality of life of the people living with HIV in Northern countries as well as Southern countries and particularly in Africa, many obstacles have slowed down their use. Thus the follow-up of the patients under HAART in certain developing countries is still limited even non-existent. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this work was to bring the therapeutic outcomes obtained after a minimal six months period of follow-up among HIV+ patients admitted in external consultations or following hospitalizations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We carried out a retrospective and descriptive study concerning patients followed from January 1st, 2004 to December 31st, 2008 (5 years). RESULTS: Our study concerned 275 patients including 61.41% women with a sex-ratio (M/W) of 0.62. The average age of our patients was of 36.83 [rage: 18-70]. The initial average weight of our patients was 59.88 kg [range: 30-107] with the majority (66.91%) at the stage III of the WHO clinical classification. The serologic profile was dominated by HIV1 (97.09%) with a number of average CD4 of 210.99 cells/mm3 at the initiation of the ARV treatment. The evolution under treatment was marked clinically by an average ponderal gain of 7,45kg, with weight increasing from 59.88 kg to 67.33 kg between M0 and M54. Biologically, the number of average CD4 increased from 210.99 to 643 between M0 and M48 with an average gain of 432.01 cells/mm3. On the virological level, the plasmatic viral load was carried out for 64 patients out of 275. It was undetectable in 31 patients, be it 48.44%. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the therapeutic outcomes of the patients under HAART was good at the end of this study with a satisfactory clinical issue, marked by an increase in the average weight which corroborates a good immunological and virological response.

Si l'utilisation des multithérapies antirétro-virales (ARV) a grandement amélioré la survie, la morbidité et la qualité de vie des PVVIH dans les pays du Nord, dans les pays du Sud, et notamment en Afrique, de nombreux obstacles ont freiné leur utilisation. C'est ainsi que le suivi des patients sous ARV dans certains pays en voie de développement est encore timide voir inexistant. OBJECTIF: L'objectif de ce travail était de rapporter les réponses thérapeutiques obtenues après une période minimale de six mois de suivi chez des patients VIH+ admis en consultations externes ou à la suite d'hospitalisations. MATÉRIEL ET MÉTHODES: Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective de type descriptif concernant les patients suivis dans la période du 1er janvier 2004 au 31 décembre 2008, soit 5 ans. RÉSULTATS: Notre étude a concernée 275 patients dont 61,41% de femmes avec un sex-ratio (H/F) de 0,62. L'âge moyen de nos patients était de 36,83 [18 70]. Le poids moyen initial de nos patients était de 59,88 kg [30 ­107] avec la majorité (66,91%) au stade III de la classification clinique de l'OMS. Le profil sérologique était dominé par le VIH1 (97,09%) avec un nombre de CD4 moyen à 210,99 cellules/mm3à l'initiation du traitement ARV. L'évolution sous traitement a été marquée cliniquement par un gain pondéral moyen de 7,45kg, le poids moyen passant de 59,88 kg à 67,33 kg entre M0 et M54. Biologiquement, le nombre de CD4 moyen est passé de 210,99 à 643 entre M0 et M48 soit un gain moyen de 432,01 cellules/mm3. Sur le plan virologique, la charge virale plasmatique réalisée chez 64 patients sur 275 était indétectable chez 31 patients soit 48,44%. CONCLUSION: Globalement, la réponse thérapeutique était bonne au terme de cette étude avec une réponse clinique satisfaisante, marquée par une augmentation du poids moyen qui corrobore une bonne réponse immunologique et virologique.

[Causes of lymphocytic meningitis in people with HIV admitted to the Infectious Disease department of Conakry]. / Étiologies des méningites lymphocytaires chez les personnes vivant avec le VIH suivies dans le service des maladies infectieuses de Conakry.

OBJECTIVES: The advent of HIV infection has significantly changed the distribution of the causes of lymphocytic meningitis. The objective of this study was to identify these causes among persons with HIV hospitalized in the infectious disease department of the CHU of Conakry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study examined hospital records of patients with HIV infection admitted for lymphocytic meningitis over a 10-year period. RESULTS: Of the 8649 hospitalizations in the department during the study period, 3167 patients had HIV infection, and 85 of the latter were diagnosed with lymphocytic meningitis. Slightly more than half were male (sex ratio M/F = 1.1). Their mean age was 32 years. Of these 85 patients, 73 were positive for HIV-1 only and 12 for HIV1+2. A CD4 count was performed only in 13/85 patients and averaged 140 cells/mm3. The main causes associated with lymphocytic meningitis were cryptococcosis (58%), toxoplasmosis (5%), and tuberculosis (2%). Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Hæmophilus influenzae were also identified in 16% of cases. In 18% of cases no microbe was identified. The overall lethality rate was 68%; it reached 100% for tuberculous meningitis and for the cases without any identified cause and was 75%-76% for the patients with toxoplasmosis and cryptococcosis. The survival rate was 100% for all bacterial causes. CONCLUSION: A cause for lymphocytic meningitis was identified in more than 81% of the patients in our series, and the most common microbe was Cryptococcus neoformans. A better microbiological technical platform and improved accessibility to treatment would enable us to provide more relevant results and treatment.

[Canine and human rabies in Conakry: epidemiology and preventive aspects]. / La rage canine et humaine à Conakry : aspects épidémiologique et prophylactique.

In Guinea, stray dogs are present in large numbers in public places and around landfills. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of human exposure to rabies risk, the cases of human and canine rabies and to describe the epidemiological profile of the cases. This retrospective and descriptive study was conducted in health and veterinarian facilities within the city of Conakry. All records of patients admitted in these facilities because of animal bites and veterinary records for aggression by domestic animals from 2002 to 2012, so, during an 11-year period, were collected. During the study period, 7 994 people were concerned by domestic animal bites. Males were the most affected with 60.4% of all cases. Students represented the higher class with 36.0%, followed by workers (18%). The majority of injuries were to the lower limbs (54.4%). The dog has been implicated in the attacks in 98.8% of cases. Among the 2 916 biting dogs which were placed under observation, 14 developed clinical rabies. Among those assaulted, 11 cases of rabies were reported. From 7 994 victims of domestic animal bites, 2 634 received post-exposure prophylaxis and the dropout rate was 51%. Rabies is a real risk in Conakry. Provisions in terms of public health strategy must be taken to minimize it.

Ebola outbreak in Conakry, Guinea: epidemiological, clinical, and outcome features.

OBJECTIVES: The authors studied the epidemiological, clinical, and outcome features of the Ebola virus disease in patients hospitalized at the Ebola treatment center (ETC) in Conakry to identify clinical factors associated with death. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was conducted from March 25 to August 20, 2014. The diagnosis of Ebola virus infection was made on real-time PCR. RESULTS: Ninety patients, with a positive test result, were hospitalized. Their mean age was 34.12±14.29 years and 63% were male patients. Most worked in the informal sector (38%) and in the medical and paramedical staff (physicians 12%, nurses 6%, and laboratory technicians 1%). Most patients lived in the Conakry suburbs (74%) and in Boffa (11%). The main clinical signs were physical asthenia (80%) and fever (72%). Hemorrhagic signs were observed in 26% of patients. The comparison of clinical manifestations showed that hiccups (P=0.04), respiratory distress (P=0.04), and hemorrhagic symptoms (P=0.01) were more frequent among patients who died. Malaria (72%) and diabetes (2%) were the most frequent co-morbidities. The crude case fatality rate was 44% [95% confidence interval (33-54%)]. The average hospital stay was 7.96±5.81 days. CONCLUSION: The first Ebola outbreak in Conakry was characterized by the young age of patients, discrete hemorrhagic signs related to lethality. Its control relies on a strict use of preventive measures.

[Epidemiology of bacillary pulmonary tuberculosis according to HIV status of patients followed in the department of infectious diseases Conakry (Guinea)]. / Épidémiologie de la tuberculose pulmonaire bacillifère selon le statut VIH des patients suivis dans le service des maladies infectieuses de Conakry (Guinée).

Despite many efforts of prevention and the availability of free treatment, TB/HIV co-infection is still rampant in Guinea. The objective of this study was to describe the epidemiology of smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis according to HIV status among patients hospitalized in the infectious diseases department of Conakry University Hospital. This was a descriptive and analytical retrospective study of patient records admitted for pulmonary tuberculosis from January 2003 to December 2012. During this period, 1953 cases of tuberculosis were collected of which 346 (17.7%) were smear positive. There was a marked male predominance (59.7%). The average age was 38 ± 11 years. The majority of patients originated from the suburbs of Conakry and its surrounding prefectures (76.7%). People without profession were most represented (40.7%). A level of primary education was the most frequently reported (39.7%). Out of 325 patients tested for HIV, the serology was positive in 185 patients (56.9%). A contact with a TB patient was reported in 21.4% of HIV negative patients, and in 6.5% of the HIV-positive group (p = 0.0006). There was no difference between the two groups regarding clinical signs and symptoms. The mean CD4 count was comparable in both groups (p = 0.05). Lethality was higher among co-infected patients (30.4% against 15.56%; p = 0.00037). Strengthening the prevention of TB among PLWHA by the administration of isoniazide seems necessary and warrants further study on this subject in Guinea.

[Scorpion envenomation treated in the Infectious and Tropical Diseases at the Donka National Hospital, Guinea]. / Les envenimations scorpioniques traitées dans le service des maladies infectieuses et tropicales de l'hôpital national Donka, Guinée.

A retrospective descriptive study was conducted from 1(st) October 2010 to 30 November 2012 on the records of patients admitted for scorpion envenomation in the Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases at the Donka National Hospital. The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiological profile and clinical characteristics of scorpion envenomation in Maritime Guinea, from scorpion stings recently covered in this service. We collected 75 cases of scorpion envenomation. The median age was 21.5 with interquartile 8 and 20 and sex ratio was 1.29. The upper limbs were involved in 55% of cases, followed by the lower limbs (35%), trunk (6%), head and neck (4%). We observed 63% of patients with local signs, 30% mild and general clinical signs of 7% severe systemic symptoms. All patients received an analgesic and a heterologous antitoxin, associated with an antibiotic (87% of patients), a corticosteroid (72%), diazepam (13%) and furosemide (34.6%). The incidence of scorpion envenomation is not negligible despite underreporting of cases, most often treated in traditional medicine.

[The hospital-borne tetanus in the reference service of the Donka National Hospital in Conakry (2001-2011)]. / Le tétanos nosocomial dans le service de référence de l'hôpital National Donka à Conakry (2001-2011).

Become almost non-existent in the developed countries, the hospital-borne tetanus always stays of current events in our country in spite of the forensic problem which it puts. The objectives of this study were to determine prevalence of this affection, to describe its clinical picture and to determine its lethality. It is about a retrospective study of a duration of 11 years realized in the service of the infectious diseases of Conakry. Among 8649 hospitalizations from 2001 till 2012 we brought together 239 cases of tetanus (2.7%) among which 60 hospital-borne tetanus (0.7%). Men represented 73% of these cases, with a sex-ratio M/F of 2.7. The age bracket of 20-40 years was the most affected with 32 cases (53.3%). A single patient had begun his vaccinal calendar which had remained incomplete. Both national hospitals of the CHU of Conakry and private hospitals were the biggest suppliers of this hospital-borne tetanus with respectively 22 and 27 cases (36.6 and 45%). Tetanus related to IM of quinine represented 26 cases (43.3%) whereas the hernial cure was found in 16 cases (26.6%). The average duration of invasion and incubation was respectively 1.5 days and 6 days for the dead (n = 45.7%) and 2 days and 10.5 days for the survivors. Three-quarters of 60 patients died. The fight against this type of tetanus passes inevitably by an improvement of the working conditions, a strict application of the rules of asepsis and the in-service training of the medical and paramedical staff.

[Evaluation of antiretroviral treatment in HIV infected adult in the department of dermatological venereology of the Donka National Hospital]. / Evaluation du traitement antiretroviral chez l'adulte infecte par le VIH au service de dermatologie venereologie de l'Hopital National Donka.

If the use of highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) have largely improved survival, morbidity and quality of life of the people living with HIV in Northern and Southern countries, and particularly in Africa, many obstacles have slowed down their use. Thus the monitoring of patients under HAART in certain developing countries is still very low, if not non-existent. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to bring the therapeutic outcomes obtained after a minimal six months period of monitoring among HIV positive patients admitted in external consultations or following hospitalizations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We carried out a retrospective descriptive study concerning patients monitored from January 1st, 2004 to December 31st, 2008, that is to say 5 years. RESULTS: Our study consisted of 275 patients including 61.41% women with a man:woman sex-ratio of 0.62. The average age of our patients was of 36.83 [ranging from 18 to 70]. The initial average weight of our patients was 59.88 kg [range: 30-107] with the majority (66.91%) at stage III of the WHO clinical classification. The serologic profile was dominated by the HIV1 (97.09%) with a CD4 average of 210.99 cellules/mm3, the the start of the HAART. The evolution under treatment was marked clinically by an average ponderal gain of 7,45kg, with average weight going from 59.88 kg to 67.33 kg between M0 and M54. Biologically, the CD4 average went from 210.99 to 643 between M0 and M48 or an average gain of 432.01 cells/mm3. On the virological level, the plasmatic viral load carried out on 64 patients out of 275, was undetectable in 31 patients or 48.44% of cases. CONCLUSION: Our findings show that the therapeutic outcomes for patients under HAART was good and with a satisfactory clinical response, marked by an increase in the average weight which indicates a good immunological and virological response.

Si l'utilisation des multithérapies antirétrovirales (ARV) a grandement amélioré la survie, la morbidité et la qualité de vie des PVVIH dans les pays du Nord, dans les pays du Sud, et notamment en Afrique, de nombreux obstacles ont freiné leur utilisation. C'est ainsi que le suivi des patients sous ARV dans certains pays en voie de développement est encore timide voir inexistant. OBJECTIF: L'objectif de ce travail était de rapporter les réponses thérapeutiques obtenues après une période minimale de six mois de suivi chez des patients VIH+ admis en consultations externes ou à la suite d'hospitalisations. MATÉRIEL ET MÉTHODES: Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective de type descriptif concernant les patients suivis dans la période du 1er janvier 2004 au 31 décembre 2008, soit 5 ans. RÉSULTATS: Notre étude a concernée 275 patients dont 61,41% de femmes avec un sex-ratio (H/F) de 0,62. L'âge moyen de nos patients était de 36,83 [18 70]. Le poids moyen initial de nos patients était de 59,88 kg [30 ­107] avec la majorité (66,91%) au stade III de la classification clinique de l'OMS. Le profil sérologique était dominé par le VIH1 (97,09%) avec un nombre de CD4 moyen à 210,99 cellules/mm3à l'initiation du traitement ARV. L'évolution sous traitement a été marquée cliniquement par un gain pondéral moyen de 7,45kg, le poids moyen passant de 59,88 kg à 67,33 kg entre M0 et M54. Biologiquement, le nombre de CD4 moyen est passé de 210,99 à 643 entre M0 et M48 soit un gain moyen de 432,01 cellules/mm3. Sur le plan virologique, la charge virale plasmatique réalisée chez 64 patients sur 275 était indétectable chez 31 patients soit 48,44%. CONCLUSION: Globalement, la réponse thérapeutique était bonne au terme de cette étude avec une réponse clinique satisfaisante, marquée par une augmentation du poids moyen qui corrobore une bonne réponse immunologique et virologique.

[Antiretroviral therapy with three nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors in treatment-naive HIV-infected patients in Abidjan (Cote d'Ivoire)]. / Le traitement antirétroviral à base de trois inhibiteurs nucléosidiques de la transcriptase inverse chez les patients naïfs infectés par le VIH à Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire).

This study assesses the results of initial antiretroviral therapy with 3 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors over the first 12 months of treatment. Patients' general health improved significantly during the year, with a significant mean weight gain (from 59.3 kg to 65.12 kg) and a strong regression in the frequency of opportunistic infections over the study period, from 38% to 2% (P<0.0001). The mean CD4 T-cell count rose from 242.8 to 390.5 cell/mm(3), for a mean increase of 147.7 cells/mm(3). Accordingly, antiretroviral treatment with three nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors is effective and is a useful alternative in a country with limited resources.

[Causes and characteristics of patient death under ARV at the Dermatology-Venereology Department of the Donka National Hospital, GUINEA]. / Causes et caracteristiques des deces des patients sous ARV au service Dermatologie-Venereologie de L'Hopital National Donka, Guinee.

INTRODUCTION: The antiretroviral treatments led to a spectacular reduction of morbidity and mortality of HIV-infected patients, transforming it into a chronic infection. HIV infection remains potentially lethal and requires a long term treatment to obtain an immunological and virological control. The goal of this work was to describe the characteristics of the deaths during the ARV treatment. MATERIALS AND METHOD: We led a descriptive retrospective study of a 4 year period, from July 2004 to August 2007 which looked at 429 patient under ARV followed in the dermatology - venereology department of the Donka national hospital and whose death during hospitalization occurred for the study period. We excluded the patients who suffered loss of sight or who died during the ARV treatment period. RESULTS: On 429 included patients, recorded death rate was of 27,7%. The mean age of included patients was 42 ± 6.5 years old. Patients at the stage 3 and 4 of the WHO classification recorded the greatest number of death. There was no patient at stage I. More half of the patients were immunosuppressed with a count of CD4 < 200/mm3. In our study 66 patients died with a rate of CD4 < 200/mm3 21 patients with a rate of CD4 ranging between 200 and 499 or 17,6%. Only one patient had a rate of CD4 > 500/mm3 while 31 other patients did not have a CD4 at the time of the death. We recorded 57 deaths in the first 6 months of HAART (among which 32 occurred within the first 3 months) and 24 after. The leading causes of death were tuberculosis (47,05%) including 64,28% of pulmonary localization and 35,71% of extrapulmonary localization, followed by cerebral toxoplasmosis (19,62%) and Kaposi disease (15,12%). The other causes of death found were hepatitis B (4,20%) and neuro-meningeal cryptococcosis (2,52%). A socio-economic unstable situation was found at half of the patients For 14 case the cause of death remained unknown. There no was death due to side effects of the ARV therapy. 89,1% of the patients deceased were under protocol 2 INTI + 1 INNTI which represents the layout of first line in our country. CONCLUSION: The mortality of the infection by HIV remains high in spite of the introduction of ARV treatment into our service. The patients who passed away were mainly characterized by a low level of CD4 and a very advanced stage of the evolution of the infection to the initiation of the ARV. The leading causes of death were opportunist infections. An early tracking of the infection by HIV and an early and optimal assumption of responsibility of the opportunist infections could contribute to reverse the tendencies in Guinea.

Les traitements antirétroviraux (ARV) ont permis d'obtenir une réduction spectaculaire mais non complète de la morbidité et de la mortalité à VIH. Cependant malgré ces résultats positifs, plusieurs études rapportent des taux de mortalité élevée chez des patients soumis aux traitements ARV. Le but de ce travail était de décrire les caractéristiques des décès au cours du traitement ARV. MATÉRIEL ET MÉTHODE: Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective descriptive d'une période de 4 ans, allant de juillet 2004 à août 2007 portant sur 429 patients sous traitement ARV suivis dans le service de dermatologie-vénéréologie de l'hôpital national guinéen de Donka et dont le décès est survenu dans le service pendant la période d'étude. RESULTATS: Sur 429 patients sous ARV inclus dans l'étude, 119 étaient décédés soit une fréquence de 27,7%. L'âge moyen de nos patients était de 42 ± 6,5 ans. Il y avait une légère prédominance féminine (52,1%) avec un sex ratio F/H égal à 1,08. Les patients au stade 3 et 4 de la classification de l'OMS ont enregistré le plus grand nombre de décès. Aucun patient n'était au stade I. Plus de moitié des patients étaient dans un état de déficit immunitaire très profond (CD4 < 200 / mm3). Au cours de notre étude, 66 patients étaient décédés avec un taux de CD4 < 200 / mm3 soit 55%. Nous avons enregistré 57 décès (47,9%) dans les 6 mois suivants l'introduction du traitement anti VIH dont 32 (soit 26,9% de l'ensemble des décès enregistrés) dans les 3 premiers mois alors que 24 patients (20,2%) étaient décédés après 6 mois de traitement. Les principales causes de décès étaient la tuberculose (47,05%), dont 64,28% de localisation pulmonaire, suivie de la toxoplasmose cérébrale (19,62%) et la maladie de Kaposi (15,12%). Les autres causes de décès retrouvées étaient l'hépatite B (4,20%) et la cryptococcose neuro-méningée (2,52%). Pour 14 cas soit 11,76% la cause de décès était inconnue. Aucun décès dû aux effets secondaires des ARV n'était noté. La majorité (89,1%) des patients décédés étaient sous le protocole 2 INTI + 1 INNTI qui représente le schéma de première ligne dans notre pays. CONCLUSION: La mortalité de l'infection par le VIH reste élevée malgré l'introduction du traitement ARV dans notre service. Les patients décédés étaient principalement caractérisés par un faible taux de CD4 et un stade très avancé de l'évolution de l'infection à l'initiation des ARV. Les principales causes de décès étaient les infections opportunistes. Un dépistage précoce de l'infection par le VIH et une prise en charge précoce et optimale des infections opportunistes pourraient contribuer à inverser les tendances en Guinée.