Chronic kidney disease and its associated factors in HIV-infected individuals: a comparison of antiretroviral therapy naïve and experienced patients.

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as one of the primary comorbidity affecting individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), even after the initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of CKD and its associated factors among HIV-infected individuals who are HAART naïve compared to those who are HAART experienced.

Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Mizan Tepi University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from March to May 2022. A double population proportion formula was used to select 250 study participants, with 125 being HAART naïve and 125 being HAART experienced. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Serum creatinine levels were measured using a Mindray BS-200 chemistry analyzer, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. The level of urine protein was measured using a reagent strip within 30 min of collection. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Result: The mean (±SD) age of the HAART-naïve individuals was 35 ± 9.5, while that of the HAART-experienced individuals was 45 ± 9.9 years. Of the total participants, 67.2% participants were women. The overall prevalence of CKD among the HIV-infected study participants was 36.4%. The prevalence of CKD was 33.6% in HAART-naïve individuals and 39.2% in HAART-experienced individuals, with a p-value of 0.03. Male sex was identified as an independent factor associated with CKD in this study.

Conclusion: The prevalence of CKD was found to be higher among HAART-experienced individuals than HAART-naïve individuals. Regular renal function assessments should be conducted before and during HAART to mitigate the risk of renal dysfunction.