Elusoji S O, Osime O C.
Multiple fistula in ANO in an HIV seropositive patient (The danger of stigmatisation)
Pak J Med Sci Jan - Mar 2007;23(1):122-3.
University of Benin Teaching Hospital UBTH Benin City, Nigeria

A 45-year-old man presented with a nine-month history of recurrent discharge from the anal region. He also had a history of weight loss. Examination revealed multiple fistulas-in-ano. The patient initially refused an HIV screening test; but later agreed. The result revealed HIV positive. As a result of the stigmatization associated with the diagnosis, the patient bluntly refused to bring the wife for screening and that he was not going to inform the wife of his diagnosis. The patient discharged himself against advise and went to seek traditional `doctors` herb. However, we were reliably informed that he died few months afterwards. The aim of this presentation is to highlight the degree to which stigmatization can influence patients` decision regarding HIV/AIDS and to emphasize the role of adequate health education to create more awareness. This will minimize the morbidity and mortality associated with HIV/AIDS.

Category: Case Reports
Keywords: HIV. AIDS. Anal Fissure.

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