Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in people living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with progressive immune suppression, predisposing patients to opportunistic infections such as toxoplasmosis. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) who underwent viral load testing at the Matam Communal Medical Center, Conakry, Guinea.

Material and Methods: A prospective descriptive study was conducted from October 1, 2021 to October 31, 2023 among PLHIV followed at the Matam Communal Medical Center. Sociodemographic, immunological (CD4+ T-cell count), virological (HIV viral load), and serological data for Toxoplasma gondii were collected and analyzed.

Results: A total of 203 PLHIV were enrolled, with a predominance of females (67.49%) and a mean age of 39 years (range: 18–76 years). Among the 81 patients who underwent viral load testing, 70% (57/81) had a detectable viral load. Advanced immunodeficiency was common, with a mean CD4+ T-cell count of 124.52 cells/µL (range: 5–349 cells/µL). Nearly half of the patients with a detectable viral load (49%, 28/57) were seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii. Toxoplasma infection was more frequent among patients aged 21–40 and 41–60 years, females, and single individuals, and was predominantly associated with low CD4+ T-cell counts.

Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among PLHIV with detectable viral load and advanced immunosuppression. These findings highlight the need for strengthened biological monitoring and integrated management strategies to prevent and control opportunistic infections in PLHIV.