The Burden of (Neuro)Cysticercosis Among People Living With HIV in Rural Tanzania

Technical University of Munich2,584 enrolled

Overview

This study aims to compare the burden of neurocysticercosis among people living with HIV to people not infected with HIV.

People living with HIV and matched HIV negative controls will be tested serologically for cysticercosis, examined neurologically and will undergo CT scanning to determine the prevalence and presentation of NCC. Furthermore, the immune system response in HIV patients with Taenia solium neurocysticercosis will be assessed.

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Enrollment

2,584

Conditions

Neurocysticercosis HIV/AIDS

Interventions

Diagnosis of (Neuro)cysticercosisDIAGNOSTIC_TEST

* Serological tests for cysticercosis * Neurological examination and cerebral CT scan for the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis * Stool testing for T. solium

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 14 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients who consent to participate in the study and testing. * Patients of age 14 years and above * Patient living inside the study catchment area * HIV-positive patients * Patient suspected of taeniasis or cysticercosis/neurocysticercosis Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with opportunistic infections. * Study participants taking anthelminthic drugs PZQ and ALB or have received them within the previous 12 months. * Pregnant women * Patients that are seriously ill. * Patients with epilepsy and other mental disorders that impair thoughts and emotions such as psychosis.

Locations (1)

National Institute of Medical Research

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Prevalence of cysticercosis

Prevalence of cysticercosis among people living with HIV and matched HIV-negative individuals in rural Tanzania where pig farming is common

Time frame: Single assessment at inclusion into study (serological testing)

Prevalence of neurocysticercosis

Prevalence of neurocysticercosis among people living with HIV and matched HIV-negative individuals in rural Tanzania where pig farming is common

Time frame: Single assessment through cerebral CT scan at inclusion into study

Secondary Outcomes

Th1 cytokines among neurocysticercosis patients

To compare the specific peripheral immune response against T. solium neurocysticercosis between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients measured by concentration of Th1 cytokines.

Time frame: One time assessment through immunological testing at inclusion into study

Data from ClinicalTrials.gov

This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.