Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) and human immunodeficiency virus at Sekuru Kaguvi Eye Unit in Zimbabwe: the role of operational research studies in a resource poor environment?
OBJECTIVE
To determine the extent of association and relative risk of developing ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) among HIV positive patients seen in July 2004 at Sekuru Kaguvi Eye Unit, in Harare, Zimbabwe.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
Sekuru Kaguvi Eye Unit.


METHODS
All patients who presented with conjunctival growths in July 2004.


METHODS
Relative risk.


RESULTS
The relative risk of being HIV positive among patients with ocular surface squamous neoplasia was 3.6 with 95% CI 1.5 to 8.6. The mean CD4 cell count level was significantly lower among OSSN patients when compared to patients with non-ocular surface squamous neoplasia.


CONCLUSIONS
1. HIV related malignancies can be used as an indicator of when to commence patients on anti-retroviral (ARVs) when CD4 counts are not accessible; 2. Medical practitioners in resource-poor settings should conduct meaningful operational research as part and parcel of their routine clinical work using available resources, since funding is not readily available.
Chinogurei
T S
TS
Department of Surgery, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Avondale.
Masanganise
R
R
Rusakaniko
S
S
Sibanda
E
E
D000328:Adult; D018791:CD4 Lymphocyte Count; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D003230:Conjunctival Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D005134:Eye Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012306:Risk; D012307:Risk Factors; D015030:Zimbabwe / Q000453:epidemiology