Aids and cocaine addiction: review and research findings

ABSTRACT

Deep seated mycoses were the most common findings in cocaine addicts who died of AIDS in Trinidad, West Indies with Candida species, Histoplasma capsulatum and Aspergillus species being the most common. Contaminated smoke either from crack cocaine, marijuana or hemp was the suspected risk factor for the acquisition of Histoplasma capsulatum and Aspergillus infection. Pneumocysitis carinii was seen in 50 percent of cases. Pulmonary infections were a feature in all cases in the study and massive hepato-splenomegaly were the most common pathological findings in Histoplasmosis. In regions where Histoplasma capsulatum is endemic, the findings of massive Hepatosplenomegaly in patients should alert the physicians to the possibility of the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome as a differential diagnosis. Efforts should be made to expeditiously identify and treat these organism since they contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of cocaine addicts afflicted with AIDS. Prophylaxis for these specific infectious organisms should also be considered (AU)