Otorhinolaryngological manifestations and hearing status in pediatric HIV/AIDS patients: a cross-sectional study from Northern India

Background: Pediatric HIV/AIDS patients are prone to various otorhinolaryngological (ENT) manifestations due to immunosuppression. Despite the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), ENT complications remain prevalent, affecting the quality of life. This study evaluates the ENT manifestations and hearing status in pediatric HIV/AIDS patients, emphasizing the role of regular monitoring and multidisciplinary care. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at tertiary medical college and hospital, in Northern India from November 2018 to March 2020. 276 HIV-positive children under 18 years were assessed for ENT manifestations and audiological abnormalities. The study analyzed the correlation between these conditions and CD4 counts. Results: The majority of participants (39.9%) were aged 11-15 years, with a male predominance (63.8%). ENT manifestations were common, with chronic otitis media (19.6%) and oral candidiasis (19.2%) being the most frequent. Audiological assessments revealed hearing abnormalities in 25% of children, including 16.7% of children under 5 years with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Nasopharyngeal lymphoid hypertrophy (8.6%) was the most common rhinological issue, while cervical lymphadenopathy was found in 80.8% of cases. Low CD4 counts were significantly associated with oral candidiasis and gingivitis but not with otitis media or rhinological conditions. Conclusions: ENT complications remain prevalent in pediatric HIV patients despite ART. Regular ENT evaluations and early interventions are crucial for better management. Otorhinolaryngologists play a key role in multidisciplinary care to improve patient outcomes.