Abstract:
To determine and compare WBC and lymphocyte distribution
between pregnant and non-pregnant women with HIV
infection.Thirty-six pregnant HIV infected adult women not on
antiretroviral therapy (ART) were compared with equal number
of non-pregnant HIV infected women of similar characteristics.
WBC and lymphocyte counts were obtained using a Coulter
AcT5 five-part differential analyzer while lymphocytes cell
subsets were done using a flow-cytometer. Statistical evaluations
and comparisons between variables were by non-parametric
computerized measures. Significance of the results was set at
P<0.05. No statistically significant differences were found in the
socio-economic and demographic characteristics of the study
participants (P>0.299). Significant difference were observed in
the total WBC (P=0.001), percentage lymphocyte counts,
absolute and percent CD4 cell counts (P=0.004 and P=0.005
respectively) and CD4/CD8 ratio. Immune status of Pregnant
HIV infected women is characterized of leucocytosis with
lymhocytopenia and stable CD4 counts compared to non-
pregnant HIV infected women. Larger Studies with more robust
designs to confirm the present study findings.
