1 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
2 Center of Excellence for the Care of People Living with HIV/AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
3 Laboratory of the University Clinics of Lubumbashi, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi Democratic Republic of Congo.
4 Psychology Practice “Être Toujours Meilleures,” Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
5 Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo.
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 28(01), 1728-1734
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2025.28.1.3403
Received on 25 August 2025; revised on 19 October 2025; accepted on 22 October 2025
Introduction: Despite expanded access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), opportunistic infections (OIs) remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the persistence of severe OIs in children under regular follow-up suggests the presence of underrecognized risk factors. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the occurrence of severe OIs among HIV-infected children in Lubumbashi.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective, analytical study from January 2020 to December 2024 at the HIV/AIDS Center of Excellence in Lubumbashi. A total of 175 children aged 2 to 14 years were included. Clinical, biological, nutritional, and behavioral data were analyzed using Jamovi software.
Results: Severe OIs were reported in 33.1% of cases. Factors significantly associated with adverse outcomes (death or sequelae) included CD4 count < 500 cells/mm³, ART adherence < 80%, delayed HIV diagnosis, and missed clinic visits. Conversely, adherence ≥ 95% was associated with a favorable outcome in 92.3% of cases.
Conclusion: Severe OIs remain common among children living with HIV despite regular care. Optimizing early diagnosis, improving ART adherence, and implementing targeted support strategies are essential to reduce HIV-related complications and improve pediatric outcomes in resource-limited settings.
Pediatric HIV; Opportunistic Infections; Adherence; Risk Factors; Democratic Republic of Congo
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Lokotshe Kanyama Astrid, Kanku Kazibale Bijou, Mbuyamba Mutombo Nathalie, Ndjibu Ebondo Jirene, Odon Panshi wa Panshi, Jerome Nyembo Lukamba, Manda Mukendi Dodo, Kasans Tshinyengo Franck, Tshibangu Manyonga Emmanuel, Kasamba Ilunga Eric, Shongo ya Pongombo Mick and Lungu Anzwal Philomène. Occurrence of Severe Opportunistic Infections in Children Living with HIV Under Regular Follow-Up in Lubumbashi: Associated Factors and Clinical Implications. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 28(01), 1728-1734. Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2025.28.1.3403.
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