AHF India Cares’ Dr. Karthik Prasanna V stands at the intersection of two critical disciplines: HIV care and mental health. As an antiretroviral therapy (ART) specialist and a psychiatrist, Dr. Prasanna’s unique expertise enables him to treat both the physical symptoms of HIV and the mental health challenges that often accompany the diagnosis.
As Director of Medical and Psychiatric Services at AHF India Cares, one of Dr. Prasanna’s most impactful cases involves a client whose story exemplifies the power of AHF’s integrated care approach. The client, a 40-year-old man living with HIV, faced a series of complex challenges, including a history of intravenous drug use, persistent dermatological issues, and escalating psychiatric symptoms.
Diagnosed with HIV in 2017 through an AHF outreach testing program, the client initially began ART and worked toward rebuilding his life. However, years of social isolation, compounded by unresolved trauma, took a toll on his mental health, underscoring the critical link between mental health and HIV care.
By early 2022, the client reported sensations of insects crawling on his body, leading to self-harm to “remove” them. His distress escalated, with severe sleep disturbances and open wounds that worsened his already fragile condition. Recognizing the severity of his symptoms, Dr. Prasanna diagnosed him with delusional parasitosis—a rare psychiatric condition—and adjusted his ART regimen to avoid drug interactions with psychiatric medications. He introduced a tailored treatment plan that included olanzapine, clonazepam, and cognitive behavioral therapy while emphasizing sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques.
Within weeks, the client’s itching subsided, his wounds healed, and his perceived insects disappeared. His mother, his primary caregiver, reported a dramatic improvement in his sleep and overall well-being. For the first time in years, the client found relief—not just from his physical ailments but also from the mental health struggles that had overshadowed his life.
Dr. Prasanna’s work reflects AHF’s commitment to providing holistic, person-centered care for individuals living with HIV. Integrating mental health services into HIV treatment helps ensure that clients receive comprehensive support to overcome even the most complex challenges. This approach not only saves lives but also empowers clients to thrive. For individuals like this client and countless others worldwide, AHF’s holistic model offers hope and healing—one life at a time.
