The Impact of Helicobacter Pylori Infection on Immune Regulation and Clinical Course in HIV Patients in Ghana

The main objective of the study is to investigate the impact of H. pylori infection on immune activation and clinical outcome in HIV patients. Other specific study objectives are: 1. To investigate the effects of H. pylori infection on immune activation and the T-cell profile in HIV positive patients and compare those with HIV negative controls. 2. To assess the influence of H. pylori infection on virological and immune parameters, and on clinical progression of HIV infection (WHO stage, opportunistic infections). 3. To assess the prevalence of H. pylori infection among HIV patients in the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. 4. To assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms in HIV patients in Kumasi. 5. To assess the association of H. pylori infection with gastrointestinal symptoms and pathology in HIV patients. 6. To compare the clinical and immunological response to antiretroviral therapy and in HIV-patients with and without concomitant H. pylori infection.