Aids and HIV Associated Disorders in Karachi

Abstract

In a seroepidemiological study of the prevalence of HIV infection in Pakistan, individuals from different groups were tested for HIV antibodies using second generation ELISA. Positive results were confirmed by western blot. Out of 413 individuals screened between Feb 1987 and Aug 1988, four cases were found positive by ELISA. Three cases were confirmed by western blot as well. Two cases were foreign nationals visiting Pakistan, one of them died of full-blown AIDS, the others did not show any AIDS related condition. The third case was a Pakistani national who presented with full-blown AIDS with toxoplasmosis. To our knowledge this is the first case of full-blown AIDS reported in a Pakistani national. Fourth case was an asymptomatic promiscuous lady who could not be traced further. Blood transfusion abroad and sexual contacts were responsible for HIV infection in these cases. Keywords: Aids; HIV, HTLV-III, Western blot, Professional Blood Donor, ELISA.