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The association of puerperal sepsis with HIV infection at two tertiary hospitals in Zimbabwe

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between HIV infection and puerperal sepsis among women in Zimbabwe. METHODS: A subanalysis was performed using data from a prospective cohort study conducted between September 2, 2014, and July 1, 2015, at two tertiary hospitals in Zimbabwe. Eligible participants were consecutive women who met the WHO criteria for puerperal sepsis. Variables assessed included HIV-infection status and the use of antiretroviral therapy. Severity of immunosuppression was defined by the number of T cells that expressed cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4). Endocervical swabs and blood samples were collected for microbial culture and susceptibility testing. RESULTS: ; P=0.030). Use of antiretroviral therapy did not independently influence clinical outcomes. Furthermore, infection with HIV did not influence the microorganisms isolated from blood or endocervical samples. CONCLUSION: Severe immunosuppression was associated with increased length of hospitalization among women with HIV who had puerperal sepsis.

Source: International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics

DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12695

Authors: Rumbidzai Majangara, Zvavahera M. Chirenje, Muchabaiwa F. Gidiri

Institution: University of Zimbabwe

Language: English

Topic: Neonatal and Maternal Infections

Subfield: Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, Fogarty International Center