Comparative analysis of clinical characteristics of talaromycosis in HIV-positive and HIV-negative hosts

This study retrospectively analyzes the clinical characteristics of talaromycosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive and HIV-negative hosts. Seven cases of HIV-positive hosts and 23 cases of HIV-negative hosts infected with Talaromyces marneffei were collected. Their respective clinical characteristics were compared. Patients in the HIV-negative group were more likely to have chest tightness and dyspnea, higher peripheral blood leukocyte counts, CD4+ T-lymphocyte values, CD4+ T/CD8+ T ratios, and cavities, nodules, and masses in the lungs. Patients in the HIV-positive group were more likely to have mediastinal, hilar, and distal lymph node enlargements. Patients in the HIV-negative group were more likely to have dual infections, and those in the HIV-positive group were more likely to have multiple infections. The mortality rate was higher in the HIV-negative group. Talaromycosis in HIV-negative hosts has more severe intrapulmonary lesions and a higher mortality rate and should be given more attention. Patients with talaromycosis, whether in HIV-positive or HIV-negative hosts, should be actively screened for possible coinfections.