Self-reported HIV/HAART-associated Lipodystrophy and Modifiable Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract Background Patient self-report is the most common diagnostic tool in the literature to detect HIV/HAART-associated lipodystrophy. However, data on the association of cardiovascular risk factors with HIV/HAART-associated lipodystrophy assessed by self-report are still missing. Objectives To determine the prevalence of self-reported HIV/HAART-associated lipodystrophy and to identify independent associations between traditional modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and self-reported lipodystrophy. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study at an outpatient infectious disease clinic in the Central-West of Brazil to identify the association between traditional modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and self-reported lipodystrophy. Sedentary lifestyle, smoking status, family history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, increased waist circumference and overweight were the cardiovascular risk factors assessed. Self-reported HIV/HART-associated lipodystrophy was categorized as: mild (noticeable by patients' close inspection), moderate (easily noticeable by patient and physician) or severe (readily noticeable by a casual observer). Prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (CI95%) were calculated. Multivariate Poisson's regression was used to analyze factors associated to HIV/HAART-associated lipodystrophy assessed by self-report considering a significance level of 5%. Results A total of 183 patients were included, with a mean age of 39.3±10.9 years. Most of the sample were male (77.6%), non-white (50.8%) and single (53.0%). The overall prevalence of HIV/HAART-associated lipodystrophy was 52.5% (95% CI 44.96 - 59.88). Severe lipodystrophy was observed in more than half patients (55.2%). No traditional modifiable cardiovascular risk factor was independently associated with lipodystrophy. Female sex (PR 1.49; 95% CI 1.15 - 1.95; p =0.003), time of HIV infection diagnosis of 1-3 years (PR 1.83; 95% CI 1.09 - 3.08; p =0.002) and a positive family history of CVD (PR 1.62; 95% CI 1.11 - 2.36; p <0.001) were independently associated with lipodystrophy. Conclusion HIV/HAART-associated lipodystrophy assessed by patient self-report was not associated with traditional modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. Int J Cardiovasc Sci. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0

Association between changes in body fat distribution, biochemical profile, time of HIV diagnosis, and antiretroviral treatment in adults living with and without virus infection.

OBJECTIVES: Individuals living with HIV seem to be more prone to changes in the redistribution of body fat, characterized as lipodystrophy, which may occur in conjunction with metabolic diseases. In the present study, such impacts were assessed in adults with and without HIV and associated with the time of virus diagnosis and treatment with antiretroviral. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with 123 adults, in which 87 had HIV and 36 without HIV, of both sexes, in outpatient follow-up at the Specialized Care Service (SAE) in Macaé-RJ. The following were made: 1) Alteration in body fat distribution, measured by anthropometric parameters and self-reported lipodystrophy; 2) Biochemical profile; 3) Association between HIV diagnosis time and antiretroviral treatment. RESULTS: 54.47% (n = 67) males, 45.52% (n = 56) females, mean age 37 years. Of these 87 were people living with HIV, 29% (n = 25) had self-reported lipodystrophy, mean time of virus infection, and antiretroviral treatment (5.80 ± 4.56 and 5.14 ± 3.82 years), respectively. Patients with self-reported lipodystrophy had a greater change in body fat distribution between 3-6 years of HIV diagnosis and a negative cholesterol profile. The antiretroviral treatment time influenced total cholesterol and triglycerides, even for patients without self-reported lipodystrophy, with a further nine years under treatment. CONCLUSION: In this study, the negative cholesterol profile was mainly related to antiretroviral treatment time, even for patients without self-reported lipodystrophy, and changes in body fat distribution, measured by anthropometry, was especially associated with time for HIV infection in those with lipodystrophy self-reported.

Lipodystrophic syndrome of HIV and associated factors: a study in a university hospital. / Síndrome lipodistrófica do HIV e seus fatores associados: um estudo em um hospital universitário.

The use of antiretroviral drugs has increased the survival of HIV patients, but may have side effects, such as lipodystrophic syndrome. This article aims to identify the frequency of the lipodystrophic syndrome and its associated factors in patients with HIV using antiretroviral therapy. It involved a cross-sectional study with HIV patients, monitored on an outpatient basis. The syndrome was evaluated by the association of two parameters: peripheral weight loss through the lipodystrophy severity scale and central fat accumulation, measured by the hip waist ratio. Poisson regression analysis was performed to identify the associated variables. Of the 104 patients evaluated, 27.9% presented the syndrome. After adjustment, the female sex (PRadjusted = 2.16 CI95% 1.43-3.39), being overweight (PRadjusted = 2.23 CI95% 1.35-2.65) and a longer period of use of antiretrovirals (PRadjusted = 1.64 CI95% 1.16-2.78), remained positively associated with the syndrome. On the other hand, a negative association with CD4 count £ 350 (PRadjusted = 0.39 CI95% 0.10-0.97) was observed The high prevalence of the syndrome and its association with specific groups reinforce the need for adequate follow-up and early identification to intervene in modifiable factors.

O uso de antirretroviral aumentou a sobrevida dos portadores do HIV, porém pode acarretar efeitos colaterais, como a síndrome lipodistrófica. O objetivo deste artigo é identificar a frequência da síndrome lipodistrófica e seus fatores associados em pacientes portadores do HIV em uso de terapia antiretroviral. Estudo transversal com pacientes acompanhados ambulatorialmente. A síndrome foi avaliada pela associação de dois parâmetros: emagrecimento periférico através da escala de gravidade de lipodistrofia e acúmulo de gordura central, mensurado pela relação cintura quadril. Para identificar as variáveis associadas foi realizada a análise de Regressão de Poisson. Dos 104 pacientes avaliados, 27,9% apresentaram a síndrome. Após ajuste, ser do sexo feminino (RPajustada = 2,16 IC95%1,43-3,39), ter excesso de peso (RPajustada = 2,23 IC95%1,35-2,65) e um maior tempo de uso dos antirretrovirais (RPajustada = 1,64 IC95%1,16-2,78) permaneceram positivamente associados à síndrome. Por outro lado, foi observada uma associação negativa com a contagem de CD4 £ 350 (RPajustada = 0,39 IC95%0,10-0,97). A alta prevalência da síndrome e sua associação com grupos específicos reforçam a necessidade do adequado acompanhamento e identificação precoce como forma de intervir nos fatores modificáveis.

Síndrome lipodistrófica do HIV e seus fatores associados: um estudo em um hospital universitário / Lipodystrophic syndrome of HIV and associated factors: a study in a university hospital

Resumo O uso de antirretroviral aumentou a sobrevida dos portadores do HIV, porém pode acarretar efeitos colaterais, como a síndrome lipodistrófica. O objetivo deste artigo é identificar a frequência da síndrome lipodistrófica e seus fatores associados em pacientes portadores do HIV em uso de terapia antiretroviral. Estudo transversal com pacientes acompanhados ambulatorialmente. A síndrome foi avaliada pela associação de dois parâmetros: emagrecimento periférico através da escala de gravidade de lipodistrofia e acúmulo de gordura central, mensurado pela relação cintura quadril. Para identificar as variáveis associadas foi realizada a análise de Regressão de Poisson. Dos 104 pacientes avaliados, 27,9% apresentaram a síndrome. Após ajuste, ser do sexo feminino (RPajustada = 2,16 IC95%1,43-3,39), ter excesso de peso (RPajustada = 2,23 IC95%1,35-2,65) e um maior tempo de uso dos antirretrovirais (RPajustada = 1,64 IC95%1,16-2,78) permaneceram positivamente associados à síndrome. Por outro lado, foi observada uma associação negativa com a contagem de CD4 £ 350 (RPajustada = 0,39 IC95%0,10-0,97). A alta prevalência da síndrome e sua associação com grupos específicos reforçam a necessidade do adequado acompanhamento e identificação precoce como forma de intervir nos fatores modificáveis.

Abstract The use of antiretroviral drugs has increased the survival of HIV patients, but may have side effects, such as lipodystrophic syndrome. This article aims to identify the frequency of the lipodystrophic syndrome and its associated factors in patients with HIV using antiretroviral therapy. It involved a cross-sectional study with HIV patients, monitored on an outpatient basis. The syndrome was evaluated by the association of two parameters: peripheral weight loss through the lipodystrophy severity scale and central fat accumulation, measured by the hip waist ratio. Poisson regression analysis was performed to identify the associated variables. Of the 104 patients evaluated, 27.9% presented the syndrome. After adjustment, the female sex (PRadjusted = 2.16 CI95% 1.43-3.39), being overweight (PRadjusted = 2.23 CI95% 1.35-2.65) and a longer period of use of antiretrovirals (PRadjusted = 1.64 CI95% 1.16-2.78), remained positively associated with the syndrome. On the other hand, a negative association with CD4 count £ 350 (PRadjusted = 0.39 CI95% 0.10-0.97) was observed The high prevalence of the syndrome and its association with specific groups reinforce the need for adequate follow-up and early identification to intervene in modifiable factors.

Association between changes in body fat distribution, biochemical profile, time of HIV diagnosis, and antiretroviral treatment in adults living with and without virus infection

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES Individuals living with HIV seem to be more prone to changes in the redistribution of body fat, characterized as lipodystrophy, which may occur in conjunction with metabolic diseases. In the present study, such impacts were assessed in adults with and without HIV and associated with the time of virus diagnosis and treatment with antiretroviral. METHODS A cross-sectional study with 123 adults, in which 87 had HIV and 36 without HIV, of both sexes, in outpatient follow-up at the Specialized Care Service (SAE) in Macaé-RJ. The following were made: 1) Alteration in body fat distribution, measured by anthropometric parameters and self-reported lipodystrophy; 2) Biochemical profile; 3) Association between HIV diagnosis time and antiretroviral treatment. RESULTS 54.47% (n = 67) males, 45.52% (n = 56) females, mean age 37 years. Of these 87 were people living with HIV, 29% (n = 25) had self-reported lipodystrophy, mean time of virus infection, and antiretroviral treatment (5.80 ± 4.56 and 5.14 ± 3.82 years), respectively. Patients with self-reported lipodystrophy had a greater change in body fat distribution between 3-6 years of HIV diagnosis and a negative cholesterol profile. The antiretroviral treatment time influenced total cholesterol and triglycerides, even for patients without self-reported lipodystrophy, with a further nine years under treatment. CONCLUSION In this study, the negative cholesterol profile was mainly related to antiretroviral treatment time, even for patients without self-reported lipodystrophy, and changes in body fat distribution, measured by anthropometry, was especially associated with time for HIV infection in those with lipodystrophy self-reported.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS Indivíduos vivendo com HIV parecem mais propensos às alterações na redistribuição da gordura corporal, caracterizada como lipodistrofia, podendo acontecer em conjunto com as metabólicas. No presente estudo avaliaram-se tais impactos em adultos com e sem HIV e se associou ao tempo de diagnóstico do vírus e tratamento com antirretroviral. MÉTODOS Estudo tipo transversal, com 123 adultos, no qual 87 tinham HIV e 36 sem HIV, de ambos os sexos, em seguimento ambulatorial no Serviço de Atendimento Especializado (SAE) em Macaé - RJ. Foram feitos: 1) Alteração na distribuição da gordura corporal, mensurados por parâmetros antropométricos e lipodistrofia autorreferida; 2) Perfil bioquímico; 3) Associação entre tempo diagnóstico do HIV e tratamento com antirretroviral. RESULTADOS Incluíram-se 54,47% (n=67) do sexo masculino, 45,52% (n=56) do feminino, com média de idade de 37 anos. Destes, 87 eram pessoas vivendo com HIV, 29% (n=25) possuíam lipodistrofia autorreferida; tempo médio de infecção pelo vírus e tratamento antirretroviral (5,80±4,56 e 5,14±3,82 anos), respectivamente. Os pacientes com lipodistrofia autorreferida tiveram maior alteração na distribuição da gordura corporal entre 3-6 anos de diagnóstico do HIV e um perfil colesterolêmico negativo. O tempo de tratamento com antirretroviral influenciou o colesterol total e os triglicerídeos, mesmo para os pacientes sem lipodistrofia autorreferida, com mais de nove anos sob tratamento. CONCLUSÃO Neste estudo, o perfil colesterolêmico negativo se relacionou principalmente ao tempo de tratamento com antirretroviral, mesmo para os pacientes sem lipodistrofia autorreferida e as alterações na distribuição da gordura corporal, mensuradas por antropometria, se associaram especialmente ao tempo de infecção pelo HIV naqueles com lipodistrofia autorreferida.

Psychosocial Correlates of Body Image and Lipodystrophy in Women Aging With HIV.

Body image disturbance is increasingly relevant as women living with HIV (WLWH) live longer. We explored body image disturbance and changes in fat distribution (lipodystrophy) in 63 WLWH (mean age = 51 years) and evaluated associations among lipodystrophy, body image, and psychosocial variables. Eighty-one percent of participants reported one or more body parts (of six assessed) demonstrating lipodystrophy, and more than one third reported three or more affected body parts. Increased belt/waist (58%) and increased chest/breast (39%) sizes were most common. More diffuse lipodystrophy was significantly associated with poorer body image (F[2,54] = 11.86, p < .001, partial η = .313) and anxiety (F[2,52] = 3.82, p = .029, partial η = .133) after controlling for age and duration of infection. Lipodystrophy was prevalent in our sample; more diffuse lipodystrophy was associated with anxiety and poor body image. Providers should assess lipodystrophy in older WLWH and provide referrals for mental health services.

Association between lipodystrophy and length of exposure to ARTs in adult HIV-1 infected patients in Montreal.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of lipodystrophy and its association to cumulative exposure to antiretroviral drugs. METHOD: We conducted a cross sectional study in all HIV- infected patients attending the HIV clinic in the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Montréal (CHUM) with DEXA scan. Lipodystrophy was defined as a trunk/limb fat ratio ≥ 1.5. Association between cumulative exposure to antiretroviral (measured in years of use) with trunk/limb fat ratio (coded as a continuous variable) was assessed using univariate and multivariate linear regression for each antiretroviral drug with at least 40 exposed patients. RESULTS: One hundred sixty-six patients were included. Seventy-five percent were male, median age was 56 years, 67% were Caucasian. Overall, prevalence of lipodystrophy was 47%, with a mean trunk/limb fat ratio of 1.87, SD = 1.03, min = 0.6 and max = 5.87. Each 10-year increase in age and HIV infection duration was associated with an average increase of 0.24 and 0.34 for the trunk/limb fat ratio respectively. (p = 0.003, p = 0.002, respectively) Patients classified as lipodystrophic were more likely to be diabetic (50 vs. 28%, p = 0.07) and to have dyslipidemia (47 vs. 19%, p = 0.01). According to viral load at DEXA test, each one log increase was associated with less probability (0.7) of lipodystrophy. (p = 0.01) Among ARV drugs tested, there was an association between years of use of d4T, ritonavir and raltegravir and higher trunk/limb fat ratio (indicating more lipodystrophy) (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Lipodystrophy is very common in HIV infected patients and is correlated with duration of some new antiretroviral drugs.

Indicadores nutricionais em pacientes portadores de HIV/SIDA / Nutritional indicators in patients with HIV/AIDS: ambulatorial and hospital reality

Objetivos: Avaliar e comparar o estado clínico-nutricional de pacientes infectados pelo HIV/SIDA internados e atendidos no ambulatório de nutrição do Hospital das Clínicas de Pernambuco (HC/UFPE). Métodos: Estudo transversal observacional realizado no HC/UFPE, com pacientes HIV/SIDA positivo internados na enfermaria e pacientes atendidos no ambulatório de nutrição, de ambos os sexos, com faixa etária entre 20 e 60 anos. Foram avaliadas e comparadas medidas antropométricas (peso, prega cutânea triciptal, circunferência do braço e da cintura, relação cintura/estatura, IMC, circunferência muscular do braço e percentual de perda de peso) e dosagens bioquímicas (albumina, hemoglobina, hematócrito, linfócitos totais e perfil lipídico) entre os dois grupos. Resultados: Os pacientes internos apresentaram uma baixa adesão a Terapia antirretroviral, elevado percentual de desnutrição, perda de peso e depleção tanto do compartimento muscular quanto adiposo, anemia e hipoalbuminemia. Nos externos, verificou-se boa adesão a TARV, excesso de peso, risco elevado para complicações metabólicas representados pela elevada Circunferência da Cintura e pela razão cintura/ estatura, hipercolesterolemia, glicose alterada, HDL-C baixo e elevado LDL-C. Conclusão: A síndrome lipodistrófica prevaleceu nos externos e a não adesão a TARV, encontrada nos internos, reporta uma maior frequência da síndrome consumptiva

Objetive: To evaluate and compare the clinical and nutritional status of HIV / AIDS patients hospitalized and attended at the nutrition clinic of Hospital das Clínicas de Pernambuco (HC / UFPE). Methods: Evaluated 86 pacients, 60.5% (52) inpatients and 39.5% (34) outpatients of both sexes, HIV/AIDS in the HC/UFPE, from March to August 2008, to evaluate and compare the clinical and nutritional status through anthropometric measurements and biochemical values. Results: The inpatients had a low adherence to antiretrovital therapy (ART) (22%), high percentage of malnutrition (46.2%), weight loss (78.8%) and depletion of both the muscular compartment (92.4 %) and fat (82.7%), anemia (92.3%) and hypoalbuminemia (69.2%). However in outpatients, there was good adherence to ART (97%), overweight (50%), high risk for metabolic complications represented by waist circumference (WC) (47.1%) as the reason circle waist/height (CC/Alt) (70.6%), hypercholesterolemia (70.6%), altered glucose (38.2%), low HDL-C (58%) and high LDL-C (47.1 %).Conclusion: It follows then that the syndrome Lipodystrophy prevailed in the outpatients and non-adherence to ART, found in the inpatients, reports to the beginning of the HIV/AIDS, which high frequency of the syndrome consuptiva

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COHORT PROFILE: The Complications of Long-Term Antiretroviral Therapy study in Uganda (CoLTART), a prospective clinical cohort.

BACKGROUND: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) improves the survival and quality of life of HIV-positive individuals, but the effects of long-term ART use do eventually manifest. The Complications of Long-Term Antiretroviral Therapy cohort study in Uganda (CoLTART) was established to investigate the metabolic and renal complications of long-term ART use among Ugandan adults. We describe the CoLTART study set-up, aims, objectives, study methods, and also report some preliminary cross-sectional study enrolment metabolic and renal complications data analysis results. METHODS: HIV-positive ART naïve and experienced adults (18 years and above) in Uganda were enrolled. Data on demographic, dietary, medical, social economic and behaviour was obtained; and biophysical measurements and a clinical examination were undertaken. We measured: fasting glucose and lipid profiles, renal and liver function tests, full blood counts, immunology, virology and HIV drug resistance testing. Plasma samples were stored for future studies. RESULTS: Between July 2013 and October 2014, we enrolled 1095 individuals, of whom 964 (88.0%) were ART experienced (6 months or more), with a median of 9.4 years (IQR 7.0-9.9) on ART. Overall, 968 (88.4%) were aged 35 years and above, 711 (64.9%) were females, 608 (59.6%) were or had ever been on a Tenofovir ART regimen and 236 (23.1%) on a Protease Inhibitor (PI) regimen. There were no differences in renal dysfunction between patients on Tenofovir and Non-Tenofovir containing ART regimens. Patients on PI regimens had higher total cholesterol, lower high density lipoprotein, higher low density lipoprotein, higher triglycerides, and a high atherogenic index for plasma than the non-PI regimen, p = 0.001 or < 0.001. Patients on Non-PI regimens had higher mean diastolic hypertension than patients on PI regimens, p < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS: Our finding of no differences in renal dysfunction between patients on Tenofovir and those on Non-Tenofovir containing ART regimens means that Tenofovir based first line ART can safely be initiated even in settings without routine renal function monitoring. However, integration of cardiovascular risk assessment, preventive and curative measures against cardiovascular disease are required. The CoLTART cohort is a good platform to investigate the complications of long-term ART use in Uganda.

Adiponectin, Leptin and Inflammatory Markers in HIV-associated Metabolic Syndrome in Children and Adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is more common in HIV-infected adults and children than in the general population. Adipocytokines and inflammatory markers may contribute to the pathophysiology of this condition and could be useful indices for monitoring MetS. The objective of this study was to provide information on the prevalence of MetS and investigate the role of adipocytokines and other biomarkers in this syndrome in HIV-infected pediatric patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2013 and March 2014 in the outpatient clinics of 2 tertiary pediatric referral hospitals. Fifty-four HIV-infected children and adolescents were included. MetS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation and modified National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Measurements included anthropometry, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting lipids, glucose and insulin, adiponectin, leptin, interleukin-6, vitamin D and C-reactive protein and clinical lipodystrophy assessment. RESULTS: Among the total, 3.7% of patients met the International Diabetes Federation criteria for MetS and 7.4% met the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. C-reactive protein and leptin levels were significantly higher and adiponectin level significantly lower in patients with MetS, regardless of the criteria used. Insulin resistance was observed in 40.7% of patients; abnormal quantitative insulin sensitivity check index values were found in 88.9%. Eighteen patients (33.3%) had vitamin D deficiency. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of MetS was similar to that observed in larger cohorts of HIV-infected patients in our setting. Adipocytokine dysregulation seems to be related to MetS in HIV-infected children. A high percentage of patients showed insulin resistance, which should be strictly monitored.

Body composition and metabolic outcomes after 96 weeks of treatment with ritonavir-boosted lopinavir plus either nucleoside or nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors or raltegravir in patients with HIV with virological failure of a standard first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen: a substudy of the randomised, open-label, non-inferiority SECOND-LINE study.

BACKGROUND: Lipoatrophy is one of the most feared complications associated with the use of nucleoside or nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (N[t]RTIs). We aimed to assess soft-tissue changes in participants with HIV who had virological failure of a first-line antiretroviral (ART) regimen containing a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor plus two N(t)RTIs and were randomly assigned to receive a second-line regimen containing a boosted protease inhibitor given with either N(t)RTIs or raltegravir. METHODS: Of the 37 sites that participated in the randomised, open-label, non-inferiority SECOND-LINE study, eight sites from five countries (Argentina, India, Malaysia, South Africa, and Thailand) participated in the body composition substudy. All sites had a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanner and all participants enrolled in SECOND-LINE were eligible for inclusion in the substudy. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1), via a computer-generated allocation schedule, to receive either ritonavir-boosted lopinavir plus raltegravir (raltegravir group) or ritonavir-boosted lopinavir plus two or three N(t)RTIs (N[t]RTI group). Randomisation was stratified by site and screening HIV-1 RNA. Participants and investigators were not masked to group assignment, but allocation was concealed until after interventions were assigned. DXA scans were done at weeks 0, 48, and 96. The primary endpoint was mean percentage and absolute change in peripheral limb fat from baseline to week 96. We did intention-to-treat analyses of available data. This substudy is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01513122. FINDINGS: Between Aug 1, 2010, and July 10, 2011, we recruited 211 participants into the substudy. The intention-to-treat population comprised 102 participants in the N(t)RTI group and 108 participants in the raltegravir group, of whom 91 and 105 participants, respectively, reached 96 weeks. Mean percentage change in limb fat from baseline to week 96 was 16·8% (SD 32·6) in the N(t)RTI group and 28·0% (37·6) in the raltegravir group (mean difference 10·2%, 95% CI 0·1-20·4; p=0·048). Mean absolute change was 1·04 kg (SD 2·29) in the N(t)RTI group and 1·81 kg (2·50) in the raltegravir group (mean difference 0·6, 95% CI -0·1 to 1·3; p=0·10). INTERPRETATION: Our findings suggest that for people with virological failure of a first-line regimen containing efavirenz plus tenofovir and lamivudine or emtricitabine, the WHO-recommended switch to a ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor plus zidovudine (a thymidine analogue nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor) and lamivudine might come at the cost of peripheral lipoatrophy. Further study could help to define specific groups of people who might benefit from a switch to an N(t)RTI-sparing second-line ART regimen. FUNDING: The Kirby Institute and the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.

CROI 2016: Complications of HIV Infection and Antiretroviral Therapy.

Noncommunicable conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, renal and bone diseases, and malignancies as well as infectious complications are an ongoing concern during the course of treated HIV disease. Research in this area continues to focus on the epidemiology and risk factors for these conditions, on identifying the contributions of HIV-related immunopathology to specific and collective end-organ diseases, and on evaluating interventions to prevent or reduce the morbidity associated with these conditions. Data presented at the 2016 Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections provided new insights into all of these areas.

Adverse Drug Reactions in HIV/AIDS Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Penang, Malaysia.

In the current study we explored the occurrence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to antiretroviral therapy among human immune-deficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS patients. We concluded an observational retrospective study in all patients who were diagnosed with HIV infection and were receiving highly active antiviral therapy from Jan. 2007 to Dec. 2012 at Hospital Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Patient socio-demographic details along with clinical features and susceptible ADRs were observed during the study period. Out of 743 patients, 571 (76.9%) were men, and 172 (23.1%) were women. Overall 314 (42.2%) patients experienced ADRs. A total of 425 ADRs were reported, with 311 (73.1%) occurring in men and 114 (26.8%) in women, with a significant statistical relationship (P value (P) = 0.02, OR = 1.21). Overall 239 (56.2%) ADRs were recorded among Chinese, 94 (22.1%) in Malay, and 71 (16.7%) in Indian patients, which had a statistically significant association with ADRs (P = 0.05, OR = 1.50). Out of a total 425 among ADRs, lipodystrophy was recorded in 151 (35.5%) followed by skin rashes in 80 (18.8%), anemia in 74 (17.4%), and peripheral neuropathy in 27 (6.3%) patients. These findings suggest a need of intensive monitoring of ADRs in HIV treatment centres across Malaysia.

Lipoatrophy among patients on antiretroviral therapy in Lagos, Nigeria: Prevalence, pattern and association with cardiovascular risk factors.

CONTEXT: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is linked with morphologic abnormalities such as lipoatrophy (LA), which may accompany metabolic alterations (dysglycemias, dyslipidemia and insulin resistance) that increase cardiovascular disease risk. LA and its association with metabolic alterations have been infrequently studied amongst Nigerians on ART. AIMS: To determine the prevalence, pattern and association of LA with metabolic abnormalities and hypertension among patients on ART attending an ambulatory human immunodeficiency virus clinic in Lagos, Nigeria. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out among patients on ART using a structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Data obtained included patients and physician's assessment of body fat changes, drug history, blood pressure, body composition assessment using bioelectrical impedance analysis and biochemical evaluation (glucose, lipids). LA was defined clinically. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS statistical software version 21. RESULTS: A total of 48 (33.1%) of the 145 patients had LA. The face was the most frequently affected body region. Patients with LA with lower body circumferences, skin-fold thickness and body fat (P < 0.05). The frequencies of lipid abnormalities were: Reduced high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (47.1%), elevated total cholesterol (35.6%), reduced low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (19.2%), elevated triglycerides (14.4%). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG)≥6.1 mmol/l and hypertension were present among 9.6% and 40.7% respectively. LA was not significantly associated with the presence of glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia or hypertension (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Lipoatrophy, though commonly encountered in patients on ART in Nigeria was not associated with the presence of dyslipidemia, abnormal FPG or hypertension. Regular monitoring by the physician and increased patients awareness are necessary to reduce its prevalence and impact.

Associations between lipodystrophy or antiretroviral medications and cirrhosis in patients with HIV infection or HIV/HCV coinfection.

BACKGROUND: Many HIV antiretroviral medications have been associated with chronic liver injury. HIV-infected patients frequently develop HIV and highly active antiretroviral treatment-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HALS), characterized by accumulation of intra-abdominal fat, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. We sought to determine whether long-term exposure to specific antiretroviral medications or the presence of HALS predispose HIV-infected patients to the development of cirrhosis. METHODS: HIV-infected patients with cirrhosis who received care in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System nationally in 2009 were matched by hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection status and year of first visit for HIV to the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System with HIV-infected patients without cirrhosis in a 1 : 3 ratio. RESULTS: Among HIV/HCV coinfected patients (593 with cirrhosis and 1591 matched controls), HALS was associated with a significantly increased risk for cirrhosis (adjusted odds ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.1-2.3), especially among Black patients (adjusted odds ratio 2.9, 95% confidence interval 1.6-5.2). In addition, among HIV/HCV coinfected patients, longer cumulative exposures to all antiretroviral medications, all nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, all protease inhibitors, and selected individual medications (didanosine, stavudine, and nelfinavir) were found to be significantly associated with cirrhosis. In contrast, among HIV-infected patients not coinfected with HCV (245 with cirrhosis and 658 matched controls), HALS or exposure to antiretroviral medications was found not to be significantly associated with cirrhosis, with the exception of didanosine. CONCLUSION: HALS and cumulative exposure to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors, especially stavudine, didanosine, and nelfinavir, were found to be associated with the development of cirrhosis in HIV/HCV coinfected patients, but not in HIV-monoinfected patients.

Lipodystrophy syndrome among HIV infected children on highly active antiretroviral therapy in northern India.

BACKGROUND: It is estimated that about 2.5 million people are living with HIV infection in India. Although antiretroviral drugs have been able to reduce the mortality, these drugs have serious side effects one of which is lipodystrophy syndrome. Most of the drugs used in HAART viz, protease inhibitors, stavudine and nevirapine are associated with lipodystrophy. Hence we conducted this study to assess the prevalence of lipodystrophy in HIV infected children on HAART and its associated risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted on 80 HIV infected children aged 2-18 years of age who were on stavudine based HAART for ≥ 2 years. These children were assessed for presence of lipodystrophy, its metabolic complications and associated risk factors. RESULTS: Lipodystrophy was observed in 33.7% of children with lipoatrophy being the commonest subtype followed by lipohypertrophy. Older age, increased duration of treatment and dyslipidaemia were found to be associated in patients with lipodystrophy than those without. On further multivariate analysis of independent risk factors only increased duration of treatment was significantly associated with lipodystrophy. No association was found with insulin resistance. CONCLUSION: We observed that lipodystrophy is a common finding in HIV patients treated with HAART for long duration.

From wasting to obesity, changes in nutritional concerns in HIV/AIDS.

Optimal nutrition is an important part of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care; to support the immune system, limit HIV-associated complications as well as maintain better quality of life and survival. The presentation and nature of malnutrition in patients with HIV has changed dramatically over the past 30 years from predominantly a wasting syndrome to lipodystrophy and, now, frailty. Nevertheless, we continue to see all 3 presentations in patient care today. The pathogenesis of poor nutrition in HIV-infected patients depends on caloric intake, intestinal nutrient absorption/translocation, and resting energy expenditure, which are features seen in all chronic diseases.

HIV and metabolic, body, and bone disorders: what we know from low- and middle-income countries.

Globally, the HIV epidemic is evolving. Life expectancy for HIV-infected individuals has been extended because of more effective and more widely available antiretroviral therapy. As a result, chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have become important comorbid conditions. In particular, HIV-infected persons are increasingly at risk of developing metabolic (diabetes, dyslipidemias), body composition (lipodystrophy, overweight/obesity) and bone mineral density abnormalities. We have summarized the published epidemiological and clinical literature regarding these HIV-NCD comorbidities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We found important gaps in knowledge. Specifically, there are few studies that use standardized methods and metrics; consequently, prevalence or incidence data are not comparable. There are very little or no data regarding the effectiveness or cost-effectiveness of clinical monitoring or therapeutic interventions for metabolic disorders in HIV-infected individuals. Also, although NCDs continue to grow in the HIV-negative population of most LMICs, there are few data comparing the incidence of NCD comorbidities between HIV-infected and HIV-negative populations. To address these gaps, we describe potential research and capacity development priorities for the future.

HIV and noncommunicable diseases: the Asian perspective.

Asia is seeing a rise in noncommunicable diseases in their general population and among people living with HIV. Many Asians have low body weight, which can lead to higher plasma concentrations of antiretrovirals and, as a result, their toxicities. Examples are metabolic complications from protease inhibitors, chronic kidney disease from tenofovir, and hepatotoxicity from nevirapine. Asia has not only the highest burden of hepatitis B viral infection than any other continent but also a predominance of genotypes B and C, the latter associated with higher risk for hepatocellular carcinoma. HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders are equally common among Asians as other populations. Diastolic dysfunction and asymptomatic myocardial ischemia are not infrequent. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the most common AIDS-related cancer, whereas Kaposi sarcoma is relatively infrequent. Emerging data show high prevalence of human papillomavirus-associated anal dysplasia in men who have sex with men. Resource-limited countries in Asia suffer from lack of resources for national screening programs of noncommunicable diseases, which, in turn, limits the epidemiologic data that exist to guide the use of national health resources.

Kager's fat pad inflammation associated with HIV infection and AIDS: MRI findings.

OBJECTIVE: To describe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of Kager's fat pad inflammation in HIV-positive patients with lipodystrophy due to protease inhibitor treatment and posterior ankle pain. METHODS: A case-control, cross-sectional study; group 1 included 14 HIV-positive patients using protease inhibitors, presenting lipodystrophy syndrome and having posterior ankle pain; group 2 (CGHIV-) included 112 HIV-negative patients without lipodystrophy syndrome who were being evaluated for posterior ankle pain; group 3 (CGHIV + 1) included 23 HIV-positive patients not using a protease inhibitor, without lipodystrophy syndrome and with posterior ankle pain; group 4 (CGHIV + 2) comprised 18 HIV-positive patients who were being treated with a protease inhibitor and had lipodystrophy syndrome but did not have posterior ankle pain. Images were evaluated for the presence of edema by two radiologists who were blinded to clinical features. Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate differences among the groups. Interobserver variation was tested using Cohen's kappa (κ) statistic. RESULTS: The presence of edema within Kager's fat pad was strongly associated with symptoms in HIV-positive patients who had lipodystrophy (p ≤ 0.0001). Concordance between observers was excellent (κ > 0.9). CONCLUSION: MRI findings of Kager's fat pad inflammation related to HIV/AIDS is a source of symptoms in HIV patients with posterior ankle pain using protease inhibitors and having lipodystrophy syndrome.