Implement appropriate treatment

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 5 views

Differences in Protein Level C in HIV Patients with CD4 Value <200 cells/μl and CD4 ≥200 cells/μl at H. Adam Malik Medan Hospital

Introduction

HIV/AIDS is a global health crisis that affects millions of people worldwide. The virus attacks the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. One of the complications of HIV/AIDS is hypercoagulation, which can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions such as thromboembolism. Protein C, a natural anticoagulant, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of blood coagulation. In this study, we aim to investigate the differences in protein level C between HIV/AIDS patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl and CD4 ≥200 cells/μl at H. Adam Malik Medan Hospital.

Background

HIV/AIDS patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl are considered to be in the advanced stage of the disease. At this stage, the immune system is severely compromised, making patients more susceptible to opportunistic infections and complications. Protein C levels have been found to be lower in patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl compared to those with CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl. This is a significant finding, as low protein C levels can increase the risk of thromboembolism complications.

Objective

The primary objective of this study is to determine the difference in protein level C between HIV/AIDS patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl and CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl. Additionally, we aim to understand the implications of this condition on the health of HIV-infected patients.

Methodology

This study employed an analytic research design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 38 HIV/AIDS patients treated at the HIV care room and outpatient facilities at H. Adam Malik Medan Hospital participated in this study. Patients were grouped based on their CD4 values, with one group having CD4 values <200 cells/μl and the other group having CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl.

Results

The results of this study showed that the median protein C content in HIV/AIDS patients was 79.2%. The CD4 median value in the group was 192.50 cells/μl. Patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl had an average CD4 count of 58.03 ± 19.68 cells/μl, while those with CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl had an average CD4 count of 104.64 ± 26.47 cells/μl. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in protein level C between the two groups, with a P-value <0.001.

Discussion

The findings of this study indicate that protein C levels are closely related to the immunological conditions of HIV/AIDS patients. Protein C functions as a natural anticoagulant, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of blood coagulation. In patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl, low protein C levels can increase the risk of thromboembolism complications, which often occur in the advanced phase of HIV infection. This highlights the importance of monitoring protein levels in the clinical management of HIV/AIDS patients, particularly to prevent serious complications that can endanger lives.

It is essential to note that low protein C levels not only increase the risk of thromboembolism but also reflect the condition of a weak immune system. Appropriate treatment and intensive monitoring of CD4 levels and protein C can help improve the quality of life of HIV/AIDS patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study found a significant difference in protein level C between HIV/AIDS patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl and those with CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl. This finding emphasizes the importance of supervising protein C levels in the management of HIV/AIDS patients to prevent potentially fatal complications. Further research is needed to explore the implications of protein C levels on the health outcomes of HIV/AIDS patients.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, we recommend that healthcare providers:

Monitor protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients, particularly those with CD4 values <200 cells/μl.
Implement appropriate treatment to improve protein C levels and prevent thromboembolism complications.
Conduct regular follow-up to monitor CD4 levels and protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients.
Educate patients about the importance of protein C levels and the risks associated with low protein C levels.

By implementing these recommendations, healthcare providers can improve the quality of life of HIV/AIDS patients and prevent potentially fatal complications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Protein C Levels in HIV/AIDS Patients

Q: What is protein C, and why is it important in HIV/AIDS patients?

A: Protein C is a natural anticoagulant that plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of blood coagulation. In HIV/AIDS patients, low protein C levels can increase the risk of thromboembolism complications, which can be life-threatening.

Q: What is the normal range for protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients?

A: The normal range for protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients is not well established. However, studies have shown that protein C levels are lower in patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl compared to those with CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl.

Q: How can low protein C levels affect HIV/AIDS patients?

A: Low protein C levels can increase the risk of thromboembolism complications, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, low protein C levels can reflect the condition of a weak immune system, making patients more susceptible to opportunistic infections and complications.

Q: How can healthcare providers monitor protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients?

A: Healthcare providers can monitor protein C levels through blood tests, such as the activated protein C resistance (APCR) test. Regular follow-up appointments can also help healthcare providers track changes in protein C levels over time.

Q: What are the treatment options for HIV/AIDS patients with low protein C levels?

A: Treatment options for HIV/AIDS patients with low protein C levels may include anticoagulant medications, such as heparin or warfarin, to prevent thromboembolism complications. Additionally, healthcare providers may recommend lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, to improve overall health and well-being.

Q: Can protein C levels be improved in HIV/AIDS patients?

A: Yes, protein C levels can be improved in HIV/AIDS patients through treatment and lifestyle modifications. Healthcare providers may recommend anticoagulant medications, such as heparin or warfarin, to prevent thromboembolism complications. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments can help healthcare providers track changes in protein C levels over time.

Q: What is the role of CD4 counts in monitoring protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients?

A: CD4 counts are an important indicator of the immune system's health in HIV/AIDS patients. Patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl are considered to be in the advanced stage of the disease, and may be at higher risk for thromboembolism complications. Regular monitoring of CD4 counts can help healthcare providers identify patients who may be at higher risk for complications.

Q: Can protein C levels be used as a biomarker for HIV/AIDS disease progression?

A: Yes, protein C levels may be used as a biomarker for HIV/AIDS disease progression. Studies have shown that protein C levels are lower in patients with CD4 values <200 cells/μl compared to those with CD4 values ≥200 cells/μl. Regular monitoring of protein C levels can help healthcare providers track changes in disease progression over time.

Q: What are the implications of this study for HIV/AIDS patients and healthcare providers?

A: The findings of this study highlight the importance of monitoring protein C levels in HIV/AIDS patients, particularly those with CD4 values <200 cells/μl. Healthcare providers can use this information to develop targeted treatment plans and improve patient outcomes. Additionally, patients can benefit from regular monitoring of protein C levels to prevent potentially fatal complications.