Avascular necrosis of the bone in HIV-infected patients: incidence and associated factors.

Abstract

All cases of avascular necrosis of the bone (AVN) diagnosed in HIV-infected patients from 1990 to 2000 in two Spanish provinces were examined. The frequency of AVN has increased since 1996, reaching a high of 1.19 cases per 1000 HIV-infected patients in the year 2000. AVN was predominantly seen in patients with advanced HIV disease and 86% had at least one risk factor previously associated with AVN. Ninety-one percent had had previous exposure to antiretroviral drugs and 70% had been given HAART before developing AVN.