Publications

Research outputs, reports, policy briefs and knowledge products from KIU scholars and partners.

2024 School of Allied Health Sciences International Journal of Current Research in Medical Sciences

Eosinophil Dynamics in Pregnancy among Women Living with HIV: A Comprehensive Review

Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu1 and Getrude Uzoma Obeagu

This comprehensive review explores the intricate dynamics of eosinophils in the context of pregnancy among womenliving with HIV, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of their immunoregulatory roles and potentialimplications for maternal-fetal health. Eosinophils, traditionally associated with allergic responses, emerge as crucialplayers in maintaining immune homeostasis during pregnancy. The review delves into the physiological changes ofeosinophils in pregnancy, highlighting their immunomodulatory functions.In the context of HIV infection, the reviewexamines alterations in eosinophil counts and functions, emphasizing the impact of antiretroviral therapy on thesedynamics. Placental immunology and the presence of eosinophils within the placenta are explored, shedding light ontheir potential role in preventing infections and influencing vertical transmission of HIV.Clinical implications for bothmaternal and fetal health are discussed, addressing potential associations between eosinophil dysfunction and adversepregnancy outcomes. The review concludes by identifying research gaps and proposing future directions to unravelthe complexities of eosinophil dynamics in pregnant women living with HIV. Overall, this review aims to contributevaluable insights that may inform clinical practices and interventions tailored to optimize outcomes in this uniquepopulation.Keywords: Eosinophils, Pregnancy, HIV, Immunoregulation, Maternal-Fetal Health, Inflammation, ImmuneResponse, Cytokines, Antiretroviral Therapy, Placental Immunology.