Title: [HIV seropositivity in patients with herpes zoster]

POPLINE Document Number: 077288

Author(s):

Vasconcellos MR
Castro LG
dos Santos MF

Source citation:

REVISTA DO INSTITUTO DE MEDICINA TROPICAL DE SAO PAULO, 1990 Sep-Oct;32(5):364-9.

Abstract:

The relationship between zoster and seropositivity for HIV is studied. Serum samples from 66 patients presenting acute zoster infection were tested for HIV antibodies using ELISA. There was no previous selection of patients, which rendered the population studied unbiased. 7 patients (10.6%) were positive for HIV antibodies; 6 belonged to AIDS risk groups, all were male, and 6 were between the ages of 19 and 39 years (mean age = 31.7). Results suggest that the finding of zoster in younger age groups is not necessarily linked to HIV infection. When zoster is diagnosed in patients who belong to AIDS risk groups. Independently from their age, the association with HIV infection is statistically significant. In these cases, zoster can even be considered as a marker for HIV infection and it is mandatory to test these patients for HIV antibodies. (author's modified) (summaries in POR, ENG)

Keywords:

Brazil
HIV Infections
Antibodies
Age Factors
Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses
Viral Diseases
Analysis
Developing Countries
South America, Eastern
South America
Latin America
Americas
Diseases
Immunologic Factors
Immunity
Immune System
Physiology
Biology
Population Characteristics
Demographic Factors
Population
Examinations and Diagnoses
Research Methodology