Assessment of Physical Growth in Male Children Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in Abakaliki

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection causes a derangement in growth. Antiretrovirals promote immune function restoration and improvement in the quality of life. Variables such as poor adherence to drugs and unsuppressed viral load may negatively influence growth in HIV-infected children. The study aimed at determining the growth in HIV-infected males aged 8–17 years in Abakaliki who were on antiretrovirals. Methods: Acase–control hospital-based study, involving 80 HIV-infected males aged 8–17 years who were matched for age and socioeconomic class with 80 HIV‑uninfected controls. Growth parameters including the heights, weights, and body mass index (BMI) of subjects and controls were measured, and Z scores for age derived for height, weight, and BMI. Results: The mean height of subjects (1.420 ± 0.18 m) was significantly lower than that of controls (1.515 ± 0.17 m). The mean weight of subjects (35.09 ± 12.48 kg) was significantly low compared to controls (42.21 ± 12.95 kg). A significant difference was documented in the mean BMI for age among subjects (16.78 ± 2.12 kg/m2 ) and controls (17.93 ± 2.27 kg/m2 ). There was a significant relationship between CD4 count and growth (BMI) (P = 0.006) and between duration on highly active antiretroviral therapy and growth (P = 0.024). Conclusion: HIV‑infected males had significantly impaired growth despite the use of antiretroviral drugs. Keywords: Children, human immunodeficiency virus antiretroviral drugs, males, physical growt

Glucose lowering effect of leaf extracts of Viscum Album in normal

<strong>BACKGROUND</strong>: The use of plants in the treatment of diabetes mellitus is a well-established practice in traditional medicine.<br /> Viscum album has been recommended for the treatment of several diseases. This study evaluated the glucose lowering<br /> effect of leaf extracts of this plant in normal and streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.<br /> <strong>METHODS</strong>: Leaf extracts of Viscum album were prepared with 80 % ethanol and administered to normal and diabetic<br /> New Zealand white rats. The LD50 was determined by the Karbar method. The glucose lowering effect was assessed in<br /> these animals in comparison to normal saline and glibenclamide. Blood glucose was estimated with the aid of a glucose<br /> sensor.<br /> <strong>RESULTS</strong>: The LD50 was 1520 mg/kg. A dose dependent lowering effect of the fasting blood glucose was observed in<br /> both the normal and diabetic rats, with maximum lowering occurring 6 hours after extract administration. The patterns<br /> of effect were similar to that produced by glibenclamide.<br /> CONCLUSIONS: Leaf extracts of Viscum album showed a significant glucose lowering effect in normal and diabetic rats.<br /> Extracts from this plant could therefore, be useful in controlling blood glucose level.<br /><strong> KEY</strong> <strong>WORDS</strong>: Animal models, diabetes mellitus, Viscum album, hypoglycemic effect, streptozotocin