Paediatric antiretroviral therapy outcomes under HIV hospice care in South Africa

Aim: This study aims to evaluate outcomes of children with advanced HIV disease who are initiated on antiretroviral therapy under multiprofessional specialist paediatric hospice care. Design: A retrospective cohort file review methodology was undertaken in a specialist paediatric hospice in South Africa. Methods: Antiretroviral therapy was initiated for children with a CD4% of less than 15% (for children under 6 years of age) or a CD4 count under 200 for children over 6 years of age. According to the World Health Organization Europe (2007) staging criteria, all children were stage 3/4 HIV disease. Multiprofessional staff provided daily tailored assessment and care. Each child was followed for 6 months. Data on mortality, CD4 count, CD4 percentage, body weight, and viral load were measured at initiation and a follow-up after 6 months. Findings: Of the 37 children initiated on ART therapy, 31 survived at 6 months. From a baseline of mean body weight 13.3 kg, there was an average of 3.2 kg increase (P < 0.001). Mean CD4 counts more than doubled (P < 0.001), with a mean increase of 467 cells per mm(3) blood. Mean CD4 percentages increased from 13.6-19.4% (P < 0.001 >. Viral load decreased significantly from a median 271 000 copies per mm3 blood to a median of 25 (imputed value for undetectable viral load) (P < 0.001). Twenty-three children had an undetectable viral load. Conclusion: For children with advanced HIV disease, who are least likely to access or respond to treatment, this study demonstrates a novel approach to managing care successfully.