Prior Treatment for Tuberculosis is Associated with Salivary Gland Dysfunction in People with HIV

Abstract

Background: Since the introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy, several studies have reported an increase in salivary gland diseases and high prevalence of xerostomia and salivary gland dysfunction among people with HIV. Despite the extensive research on HIV there are few studies investigating its relation to salivary glands functionality.Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2021 to June 2021 at an HIV clinic in Botswana to determine the prevalence and risk factors of salivary gland hypo function among people with HIV. Salivary hypo function was defined as whole unstimulated saliva of < 0.1 ml/minute using the University of California School of Dentistry guidelines for saliva collection. Xerostomia was assessed using the Summated Xerostomia Inventory-Dutch Version questionnaire.Results: Out of 400 enrolled participants 65% were female with a mean age of 41.94 (SD 12.26,. Prevalence of salivary gland hypo function and xerostomia were 4% and 7% respectively. In the adjusted multivariable model salivary gland hypo function was significantly associated with age and history of TB treatment. Conclusion:Current study has identified history of TB treatment and younger age as a risk factors for salivary gland dysfunction in PWH. The findings prompt for further research to determine the relationship between TB treatment and salivary gland hypo function.