The interplay of COVID-19 and HIV: A comprehensive review of clinical outcomes and demographic associations.

ABSTRACT

AIM: The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to global healthcare, particularly affecting respiratory systems and impacting individuals with pre-existing conditions, including those with HIV. METHOD: HIV's impact on clinical outcomes was assessed in four Statistical Population, synchronized with control groups. The study also explored the influence of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 treatments. Ultimately, a comparison was drawn between patients with and without HIV. RESULTS: In the first Statistical Population of COVID-19 patients with HIV, predominantly African-American men with risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes were present. Diagnostic results showed no significant differences between the two groups. In the second Statistical Population, half of the patients were asymptomatic, with diagnoses mostly based on clinical symptoms; 6 individuals developed severe respiratory illness. In the third Statistical Population, 81 % of patients were treated at home, and all hospitalized patients had CD4+ lymphocyte counts above 350 cells/mm³. Most patients improved, with fatalities attributed to comorbid conditions. In the fourth Statistical Population, HIV patients were less likely to benefit from antimicrobial drugs, and mortality was higher, though synchronized analysis did not reveal significant differences. CONCLUSION: HIV patients are more susceptible to COVID-19, but the direct impact is less significant than other factors. Additional factors contribute to increased risk, while early improvement, accurate diagnosis, and intensive care reduce fatalities.