Opportunistic Intestinal Parasites, Helicobacter Pylori, and Coinfection in Patients Living With Hiv: Prevalence and Risk Factors; Hiv Pozitif Bireylerde Firsatci Bagirsak Parazitleri, Helicobacter Pylori Ve Koenfeksiyon: Prevalans Ve Risk Faktorleri Publisher



Ibrahim A ; Raissi V ; Gadalla M
Source: Turk Hijyen ve Deneysel Biyoloji Dergisi Published:2025

Abstract

Objective: In immunocompromised populations, such as patients living with HIV (PLWH), parasitic infections and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) are a major public health concern. Each of them infects the gastrointestinal tract and causes symptoms that are similar. The goal of this study was to establish the prevalence of H. pylori and its relationship with opportunistic parasites in PLWH, as well as to estimate co-infection risk and predictors. Methods: In Tehran, Iran, single fecal samples were collected from 70 PLWH ranging in age from 13 to 60 years. To detect ova, cysts, and coccidian, all stool samples were analyzed microscopically with Iodine and acid-fast stain. Using nested-PCR tests, H. pylori and Cryptosporidium copro-DNAs were detected. Results: Molecularly, H. pylori was detected in 21.4 % of PLWH; opportunistic and intestinal parasites were found in 74.3 %, with Cryptosporidium spp, Entameba. histolytica, and Giardia intestinalis predominating (28.5 %, 27.1 %, and 22.8 % respectively). H. pylori coinfection with Cryptosporidium spp. was detected in (53.85%) and Isospora spp (15, 38 %). The co-infection of Cryptosporidium spp., Isospora belli, various parasites, and H. pylori was reported to be linked with abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Conclusion: Our findings shed light on the prevalence of H. pylori infection in PLWH who also have opportunistic and intestinal parasites. The cooccurrence of H. pylori and Cryptosporidium could support the theory of co-infection. More research is needed to confirm the link between gut microbiomes and opportunistic and intestinal parasites, whether H. pylori provides appropriate conditions for them or vice versa. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.