The outcome of prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV infection at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Western Region of Saudi Arabia: A Descriptive Study

OBJECTIVES: To describe the effectiveness of HIV guidelines in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). METHODS: A retrospective review from January 2009 to December 2018 at the King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The main outcome measures were characteristics of HIV-exposed patients and transmission rate. RESULTS: A total of 18 HIV-positive mothers and their 26 infants were included. The mean age of mothers at delivery was 31.69 years, and 50% were under 30 years old. All mothers received lifelong ART, except one who was not diagnosed until the 27th week of gestation. Among the mothers, 83% complied with treatment regimens, and 11% had ART resistance. Human immunodeficiency virus polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was undetectable in 19 pregnancies. Seven mothers had opportunistic infections and treatment was immediately initiated. After reviewing the infants’ HIV PCR tests, the transmission rates of HIV were 0% for both spontaneous vaginal delivery and cesarean section. CONCLUSION: Many challenges face the efforts to decrease vertical HIV transmission, and a particular focus on the transitions between stages of care is needed. We believe that early screening, counseling, and regular follow-up have contributed to MTCT elimination.