Alterations of growth and nutritional status in HIV-infected pediatric patients

Abstract

Background: Childhood is the most important period of physical growth and cognitive development. Studies show that growth and nutritional status of pediatric patients infected with HIV are often altered. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence in alterations of growth and nutritional status of HIV-infected pediatric patients treated at the HIV Clinic of the Instituto Nacional de Pediatría in México City. Materials and Methods: It was an observational, descriptive, transver- sal study. The final sample included 49 patients, 22 girls and 27 boys between 3 months and 18 years old. All participants underwent a com- plete nutritional assessment that included anthropometric, biochemical, clinical and dietary indicators. Results: The most common nutritional disorder was stunting. A higher prevalence of acute malnutrition was observed in infants, preschool- ers and hospitalized patients. The biochemical evaluation assessed the presence of dyslipidemia and anemia. The 46.9% of the sample showed abnormal plasma levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, or both. On clinical examination diarrhea was the most frequent symptom, which was observed in 100% of hospitalized patients. The dietary assessment showed that none of the patients followed the healthy diet baselines. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the importance of nutritional intervention in patients with HIV. The HIV Clinic of Instituto Nacional de Pediatría should consider including a nutritionist as part of the multidisciplinary team.

Keywords

• estado nutricional
• VIH
• niños