A Cross-Sectional Study of Anemia in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients in Iran

Background: Anemia is a frequent complication of infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The causes of HIV-related anemia are multifactorial. This study was conducted to evaluate the factors associated with anemia in HIV-infected patients. Methods: A total of 642 patients with HIV/AIDS attending the HIV Clinic at Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran, Iran enrolled in this study. A detailed history and physical examination was done for all the patients. Investigations included CD4+ count, hemoglobin concentration, and red blood cells morphology. Results: Among HIV-infected patients, 87% were males. The mean duration of antiretroviral therapy was 17.9±9.2 months. The mean (±SD) hemoglobin level was 12.9 ±2.31 mg/dL. Evaluation of red blood cell morphology showed macrocytosis in 11%, normocytosis plus normochromia in 41.1%, and microcytosis plus hypochromia in 47.9% of the patients. The prevalence of anemia (defined as hemoglobin<10 mg/dL) was 10.3%. Anemia was positively associated with female sex (OR=3.01), CD4 level (CD4 count of <200) (OR=3.49), and antituberculous drug administration (OR=4.57). Conclusion: Female sex, stage of HIV infection, and antituberculous drug use were the most important factors associated with anemia in HIV-infected patients in our study.