Researchers Discover Schistosomiasis Treatment May Enhance Immune System in HIV/AIDS Patients
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Researchers have hypothesized that schistosomiasis—a disease caused by parasitic worms—may diminish our immunity against infections. This suggests that the progression of HIV/AIDS may accelerate in patients also infected with these worms.
Danish and Zimbabwean researchers published their findings online in The Journal of Infectious Diseases on December 1st.
The team studied two groups of schistosomiasis patients in Zimbabwe, some of whom were also HIV-positive. One group received immediate treatment for schistosomiasis, while the other had to wait three months for treatment.
In HIV-infected individuals, the number of CD4 cells—crucial for fighting infections—was measured to assess disease severity. A higher count indicates a greater ability to combat illnesses.
In the study, among patients suffering from both diseases who received schistosomiasis treatment, CD4 cell counts increased, and HIV levels in their bodies decreased. In contrast, those who had to wait for treatment saw no increase in CD4 cells, and their HIV levels continued to rise.
The research team also found that CD4 cells increased in individuals without HIV, indicating that schistosomiasis weakens the immune system of affected individuals.
The researchers noted that the precise rate of AIDS progression due to schistosomiasis remains unclear. They call for further studies in Africa, where the risk of contracting both diseases is high, to determine whether schistosomiasis treatment should be combined with HIV/AIDS management.
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