Clinico-Epidemiological Profile of TB Coinfection in HIV Positive Patients: A Hospital-Based Observational Study

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains the most common opportunistic infection among HIV-positive individuals and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The interaction between TB and HIV significantly alters the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and outcomes of both diseases. The aim is to evaluate the clinico-epidemiological profile of TB coinfection in HIV-positive patients. Material and Methods: This observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center and included 250 HIV-positive patients diagnosed with tuberculosis. Data regarding demographic profile, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, type of TB, CD4 count, and treatment outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results: Among 250 HIV-positive patients, 70% had pulmonary TB, while 30% had extrapulmonary TB. The majority of patients were males (70.8%). The most affected age group was 31–45 years (50%) with Mean age of 38.85 years. Fever (67.6%), weight loss (6%), Anorexia (6.4%) and chronic cough (65.2%) were the most common symptoms. Patients with CD4 count <350 cells/mm³ showed a higher prevalence of extrapulmonary TB (p<0.05). Lymph node TB (28%) was the most common extrapulmonary manifestation. Treatment success rate was 78%, while mortality was observed in 12% of cases. Conclusion: TB coinfection in HIV patients shows a predominance of extrapulmonary involvement, especially in patients with low CD4 counts. Early diagnosis and integrated TB-HIV management strategies are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: HIV, Tuberculosis, Coinfection, CD4 Count, Extrapulmonary TB.