Clinical Presentations of Newly Diagnosed HIV-Infected Patients at a University Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand

BACKGROUND: Epidemiology and clinical features of newly diagnosed HIV-infected patients vary and depend on period of time and geographical area. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted in adults with positive HIV antibody testing between January and December 2006 at a university hospital setting. RESULTS: Prevalence of HIV infection was 1.0%. There were 221 patients with a median age of 35.5 (range, 15.8-72.3) years, and 57% were males. The most common risk of HIV acquisition was heterosexual (63.8%). The most common reason for HIV testing was preoperative screening (41.2%). Of all, 52.9%, 37.1%, and 10% were diagnosed as AIDS, asymptomatic, and symptomatic patients, respectively. Median CD4 count at HIV diagnosis was 260 (range, 6-1284) cells/mm(3). AIDS-defining illnesses were found in 35.7%. Overall mortality rate was 1.8%. CONCLUSIONS: More than half of newly diagnosed HIV-infected patients have advanced HIV disease and are unaware of their HIV status. These results reflect inadequate education of HIV risks and voluntary HIV testing in Thailand.