OCCURRENCE OF SKIN AND PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV IN KADUNA METROPOLIS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria. Dermatologic and psychiatric manifestations are common but often under-recognized complications in people living with HIV (PLWH). This study assessed the occurrence and patterns of skin and psychiatric disorders among PLWH in Kaduna metropolis and examined their association with viral load suppression and antiretroviral therapy (ART). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 270 HIV-positive patients attending two HIV treatment centres in Kaduna State. Dermatologic diagnoses were made by a consultant dermatologist, while psychological distress was screened using the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Viral load and ART regimen data were extracted from clinical records. Associations were assessed using chi-square tests. Skin disorders were present in 51.5 % of participants. Papulosquamous disorders (13.3 %) were the most common. A significant association was observed between skin disorders and unsuppressed viral load (p = 0.008), as well as ART regimen (p = 0.038). Psychological distress suggestive of psychiatric morbidity was identified in 12 % of participants and was more frequent among those with skin disorders. Dermatologic manifestations remain common among PLWH in Kaduna and are significantly associated with virological control and ART regimen. Integrating dermatologic and mental health screening into routine HIV care may improve overall patient outcomes.