Levels of Neutrophils, Interleukin-10 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha amongst People Living with Coinfection of HIV and Malaria in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

Introduction: Malaria and HIV are prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa, often leading to co-infection. In 2019, malaria affected nearly 229 million people worldwide, with the majority of cases in 29 African countries, particularly Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Despite progress in malaria control, the disease remains widespread, with millions of probable cases reported annually. HIV infection has been shown to limit the antibody response to malaria antigens. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) is a key cytokine involved in immune modulation. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is an important anti-inflammatory cytokine produced by various T cell subsets and is regulated by TGF-β. Neutrophils, the most abundant white blood cells, play a vital role in combating infections through phagocytosis and the release of antimicrobial substances. This study aims to evaluate the levels of neutrophils, IL-10, and TNF-α in individuals co-infected with HIV and malaria.

Aim: This study is aimed at investigating the levels of TNF-α, IL-10, and Neutrophils in study participants with coinfection of HIV and Malaria attending university of Benin teaching hospital.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study design was used.

Methodology: The study was carried out at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Edo State, Nigeria. The study lasted for a period of six months (From January, 2024 to June, 2024). A total of 210 samples were collected and used in the study, which included adults with HIV infection, with Malaria Infection and with the co-infection of HIV and Malaria who met the inclusion criteria and were reconfirmed throughout the study period. All samples were analyzed for full blood counts using Mindray BC-5000. Subsequently, the samples were processed for ELISA to evaluate the levels of TNF-alpha, andIL-10.

Results: Individuals with HIV-Malaria coinfection exhibited significantly elevated levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α) as compared to those with HIV or malaria, with p < 0.001 for both comparisons. Interleukin 10 (IL-10) levels were lower in co-infected individuals than in malaria only cases, p < 0.001, while neutrophil percentages were significantly reduced in coinfected individuals compared to those with HIV, p < 0.001 and malaria, p = 0.001.

Conclusion: The study showed that individuals with HIV-Malaria coinfection had significantly higher TNF-α levels and lower neutrophil percentages compared to those with HIV alone. In contrast, IL-10 levels were higher in those with malaria alone. Additionally, there were inverse correlations between TNF-α and neutrophils, and between IL-10 and TNF-α.