Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Research Articles

Longitudinal Analysis of Overlapping Psychosocial Factors Predicting Incident Hospitalization Among Mixed HIV Serostatus Men who have Sex with Men in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study.

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for certain types of chronic diseases and mental health problems. Despite having extended survival in the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era, MSM living with HIV contend with aging-related diseases and complications with treatment. Consequent hospitalizations incur high costs, fear, low quality of life, and frailty. Unlike heterosexual men, MSM experience more structural violence and "syndemics" of psychosocial factors that not only accelerate HIV acquisition and transmission risk but also may increase morbidity, leading to greater rates of hospitalization. We aim to examine the impact of "syndemic" psychosocial factors on the incidence of hospitalization among geographically diverse MSM in the US. Participants were 1760 MSM from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) between 2004 and 2019. We examined the relationship between six psychosocial factors (depression, stimulant use, smoking, heroin use, childhood sexual abuse, and intimate partner violence) and incident hospitalization (admission to a hospital for treatment). We found a positive dose-response relationship between the number of syndemic factors and hospitalization. MSM reporting five or more syndemic factors had over twice the risk of hospitalization compared to MSM without syndemic factors [aRR = 2.14 (95% CI = 1.56, 2.94)]. Psychosocial factors synergistically increased hospitalizations over time. The positive dose-response relationship between the number of syndemic factors and hospitalization and the synergistic effects of these factors underscore the need for interventions that disentangle the syndemics to reduce hospitalization and related costs and improve the quality of life among MSM.

Discovery of Novel Aryl Triazolone Dihydropyridines (ATDPs) Targeting Highly Conserved Residue W229 as Promising HIV-1 NNRTIs.

NNRTI is an important component of the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), but the rapid emergence of drug resistance and poor pharmacokinetics limited their clinical application. Herein, a series of novel aryl triazolone dihydropyridines (ATDPs) were designed by structure-guided design with the aim of improving drug resistance profiles and pharmacokinetic profiles. Compound 10n (EC50 = 0.009-17.7 μM) exhibited the most active potency, being superior to or comparable to that of doravirine (DOR) against the whole tested viral panel. Molecular docking was performed to clarify the reason for its higher resistance profiles. Moreover, 10n demonstrated excellent pharmacokinetic profile (T1/2 = 5.09 h, F = 108.96%) compared that of DOR (T1/2 = 4.4 h, F = 57%). Additionally, 10n was also verified to have no in vivo acute or subacute toxicity (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg), suggesting that 10n is worth further investigation as a novel oral NNRTIs for HIV-1 therapy.

Successful Treatment of Cerebral Tuberculoma in Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Patient a Case Report

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading problem in developing and endemic countries. Cerebral tuberculosis is a rare but dangerous complication of tuberculosis infection in the central nervous system. The immunosuppressive condition in human immunodeficiency virus infection is a risk factor for severe tuberculosis. Case Report: An Indonesian man, 32 years old, married, came with complaints of headaches, dizziness, delirium, nausea and vomiting since 1 month before the examination. He had a history of TB treatment 1 year before the examination. The results of the neurological examination were within normal limits, the HIV test was reactive and there was a decrease in CD4. Head MRI examination with contrast showed multiple solid nodules in the thalamus with the largest size 2.3×2.7 cm, indicating cerebral tuberculoma. Chest x-ray was normal, GeneXpert MTB sputum was not detected. Next, primary treatment is given with anti-tuberculosis drugs, Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART), co-trimoxazole, and dexamethasone. There was clinical, laboratory and radiological improvement after 12 months of treatment. Viral load is undetectable, CD4 is elevated. A head CT scan did not show tuberculoma. He became healthy and was able to return to work Discussion: Cerebral tuberculoma is a condition characterized by the presence of intracranial tuberculoma. The clinical manifestations are non-specific, such as headaches or seizures. This is caused by space occupying lesions and increase intracranial pressure. In this case, the diagnosis of cerebral tuberculoma was made through head MRI with contrast. TB therapy and co-trimoxazole are given as soon as the diagnosis is made, while antiretrovirals are given 2 weeks after he has tolerated the TB medication. The minimum duration of therapy for cerebral tuberculosis is 12 months. He require lifelong antiretroviral medication. Conclusion: Tuberculoma should be considered as differential diagnosis of space-occupying lesions in patients HIV/AIDS. Early diagnosis, adequate therapy, patient adherence and family support can cure severe tuberculosis.

Perception of Health Workers on the Integration of Mental Health Care with HIV Services in Primary Health Care Centres in Ogun East Senatorial District, Nigeria: A qualitative studyealth Services into HIV Care in Ogun East Senatorial District, Nigeria: A qualitative study

Background: People Living with HIV/AIDS have an increased incidence of mental health disorders as compared to the general population, and there exists an enormous gap between the demand and supply of mental health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Aim/Objective: This study aimed to assess the association between HIV and mental health and the knowledge and perception of health workers on their integration in Primary Health Care Services in Ogun East Senatorial District, Nigeria Methodology: Four Focused Group Discussions were conducted among 27 PHC workers in Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART)-enabled centres of Ogun East senatorial district, Nigeria using a focused group guide designed according to study objectives. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Result: Six important themes were extracted from the data in this study (Table 2); “Integration of PHC services”, “Multiple mental/psychological health challenges”, “Multiple factors as causes of mental illness”, “Diverse manifestations of mental illness”, “Necessity of incorporating HIV and Mental Healthcare into PHC services”, and “Challenges of incorporating HIV and Mental Healthcare into PHC services.” Conclusion and Recommendation: The primary health workers identified the need to integrate mental health care into HIV care in PHCs. However, there is a need to scale up the capacity of PHCs for optimal performance in this regard.

Anemia and Iron Supplementation in Relation to Viral Load and Mortality among 70,442 People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Tanzania

BackgroundAnemia may be associated with poor clinical outcomes among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLHIV) despite highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). There are concerns that iron supplementation may be unsafe to prevent and treat anemia among PLHIV. We sought to evaluate the associations of anemia and iron supplementation with mortality and viral load among PLHIV in Tanzania. MethodsWe analyzed data from a cohort of 70,442 nonpregnant adult PLHIV in Tanzania conducted between 2015 and 2019. Regression models evaluated the relationships between anemia severity and iron supplement use with mortality and unsuppressed HIV-1 viral load among all participants and stratified by whether participants were initiating or continuing HAART. ResultsAnemia was associated with an increased risk of mortality and unsuppressed viral load for participants who initiated or continued HAART. Iron supplement use was associated with reduced mortality risk but also had a greater risk of an unsuppressed viral load among participants continuing HAART. There was no association of iron supplement use with mortality, and unsuppressed viral load among PLHIV that were initiating HAART. There was a stronger negative association between iron supplement use and the risk of having an unsuppressed viral load among participants with stage III/IV disease compared with stage I/II disease. ConclusionsAnemia is associated with increased risk of mortality and unsuppressed viral load, but the benefits and safety of iron supplements appear to differ for those initiating compared with continuing ART as well as by HIV disease severity.

Point prevalence of metabolic syndrome in HIV positive patients

ABSTRACT Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related morbidity and mortality have declined over time, but this increased longevity may lead to the development of other diseases, which may further manifest as the metabolic syndrome (MS). Method: To find out the point prevalence of MS in HIV positive patients, a cross-sectional prospective observational study was conducted on 200 patients who approached ART plus Centre of Government Medical College and Hospital Jammu, including 50 symptomatic patients HIV negative as controls. Results: The mean age group in MS was 37.85 ± 6.61. Males consisted of 55% (110) and females consisted of 45% (90). The overall prevalence of MS was 13.5%, with prevalence in males being 16.3% and in females 10%. Patients receiving first line highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) showed a 24% prevalence, while that of second line HAART showed a 14% prevalence. Central obesity (47.3%) was the most common component of MS followed by hyperglycemia (43.3%), hypertriglyceridemia (38.6%), and low high density cholesterol (HDL-C) level (38.6%). Out of 84 males with MS, 94% (79) males were having hypertriglyceridemia, 88% (74) were hypertensive, and 72% (60) were having FBS >=100. Out of 66 females with MS, 100% (66) females had central obesity and 88% (58) had hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-C levels. Conclusion: The metabolic complications as a result of treatment with HAART leave HIV patients at a risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes in spite of improvements in morbidity and mortality. Risk factors like central obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia should be taken into consideration well before to prevent the add-on effect of developing MS.

Biological Depiction of Lipodystrophy and Its Associated Challenges Among HIV AIDS Patients: Literature Review.

Lipodystrophy syndrome is a medical condition characterized by the absence of adipose tissue without any underlying starvation or macromolecule breakdown. In HIV AIDS patients, the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) can lead to an acquired form of lipodystrophy, with a prevalence ranging from 10% to 83% among HIV AIDS patients. It was aimed to review the current understanding of biological depiction and challenges related to lipodystrophy in AIDS patients.Relevant articles published in the English language were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Google. Keywords used for the search were: lipodystrophy, lipodystrophy and HIV, ART and lipodystrophy, HIV treatment, metabolic syndrome and HIV. Articles with full abstract information were read for those that met the objective criteria of the review, then full text of the articles was accessed and used. It was revealed by the literature that patients who developed lipodystrophy are characterized by insulin abnormality, obesity, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease, and ovarian dysfunction. Anthropometric measurements have been known to change significantly with lipodystrophy. HIV patients suffering from hepatitis C virus, hepatitis B virus, who take a protease inhibitor, are changing treatment or duration of treatment, and are womenare the common risk factors for lipodystrophy. The metabolic syndrome seen in HIV patients associated with lipodystrophy can further be complicated to different adverse health effects and can result in increased morbidity and mortality rate if not treated. Existing studies have successfully identified several challenges faced by HIV AIDS patients due to lipodystrophy, including low self-esteem, compromised quality of life, and poor treatment adherence. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that there may be numerous other challenges that have yet to be discovered, emphasizing the need for further studies. It is recommended that managing dyslipidemia, treating diabetes mellitus, modifying lifestyle, and improving the anthropometric measurements have crucial roles to halt further complications associated with lipodystrophy.

Pathophysiology and Clinical Management of Dyslipidemia in People Living with HIV: Sailing through Rough Seas.

Infections with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) represent one of the greatest health burdens worldwide. The complex pathophysiological pathways that link highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and HIV infection per se with dyslipidemia make the management of lipid disorders and the subsequent increase in cardiovascular risk essential for the treatment of people living with HIV (PLHIV). Amongst HAART regimens, darunavir and atazanavir, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, nevirapine, rilpivirine, and especially integrase inhibitors have demonstrated the most favorable lipid profile, emerging as sustainable options in HAART substitution. To this day, statins remain the cornerstone pharmacotherapy for dyslipidemia in PLHIV, although important drug-drug interactions with different HAART agents should be taken into account upon treatment initiation. For those intolerant or not meeting therapeutic goals, the addition of ezetimibe, PCSK9, bempedoic acid, fibrates, or fish oils should also be considered. This review summarizes the current literature on the multifactorial etiology and intricate pathophysiology of hyperlipidemia in PLHIV, with an emphasis on the role of different HAART agents, while also providing valuable insights into potential switching strategies and therapeutic options.

Factors Associated with Concomitant Usage of Herbal Remedies among People Living with HIV/ AIDS on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) in Enugu State, Nigeria

Factors Associated with Concomitant Usage of Herbal Remedies among People Living with HIV/ AIDS on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) in Enugu State, Nigeria

Pattern of Changes in Some Biochemical Indicators and Prevalence of HIV Seropositive People Co-Infected with Tuberculosis at FMC, Owerri, Imo State

The purpose of this study was to count the number of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) who were also infected with tuberculosis (TB) and to evaluate the patients’ changes in certain biochemical parameters at the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri, Imo State. For this study, 350 HIV-positive patients between the ages of 20 and 79 years old who gave their consent were enrolled. National serial algorithms (Determine, Unigold, and StatPak) were utilized for HIV testing, whereas the GeneXpert machine was used for TB testing. While 4 ml of blood was collected in simple vials and the serum used for biochemical analysis, the biochemical analyses were performed using autoanalyzers. The risk of having both TB and HIV was highest in people aged 70 to 79 (31.11%) and lowest in people aged 50 to 59 (10.0%). According to sex, ladies (15.7%) had a greater prevalence of co-infection than males (14.3%). Between ART and non-ART individuals in this study, the results of the biochemical examinations showed that the ART group’s (test subjects’) kidney indicators, urea, and creatinine, as well as their liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), were statistically higher (P < 0.05) than those of non-ART patients (control group). TB co-infection is more likely to affect elderly HIV-positive individuals due to their weakened immune systems by nature. Additionally, people with HIV who are not on ART run the risk of developing opportunistic infections as well as anemia. In addition to the administration of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), they should be managed with additional caution. Antiretroviral medications have the potential to negatively impact vital organs like the kidneys and liver, necessitating therapeutic drug monitoring. To ensure patient compliance, more measures need to be taken by those in charge of managing these patients.

Aerobic-training effects on CD4 cell count and health related quality of life of people living with human immunodeficiency virus

This study compared the effects of 12 weeks of aerobic training against baseline data of People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWH) Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4) cell count, and Health-Related Quality of life (HRQoL) (Physical-health Component Summary (PCS) and Mental-health Component Summary (MCS)). A within-subject quasi-experimental multimethod design was used. There was purposive sampling of participants on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) under Botswana Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (BONEPWA). The 28 participants (23 females and 5 males) who met the inclusion criteria were of age 18 to 45. After 6 weeks, one female dropped out of the study. Participants were subjected to 12 weeks of aerobic training, three times a week for 60 minutes per session. The significant differences between CD4 cell count and the HRQoL variables at baseline and week 12 of the participants were compared using the paired t-test. All analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 software. The alpha value was set at p0.05) improvements in CD4 count and PCS measures after intervention. PLWH can be advised to engage in regular aerobic training 3 times a week for 60 minutes especially when on HAART. The research is relatively preliminary; therefore, there could be some replication of the study by other researchers.

Exploring the impact of therapeutic advances in HIV-related mortality in the United States

ObjectivesMortality from HIV has significantly declined with the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This study sought to examine the longitudinal trends in mortality from HIV-related diseases by race, sex, geographical region, and over time as HAART trends changed. MethodsWe queried the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Wide‐Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research database and performed serial cross‐sectional analyses of national death certificate data for all-cause mortality with comorbid HIV from 1999 to 2020. HIV diseases (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes B20-B24, O98.7, R75) were listed as the contributing cause of death. We calculated the age-adjusted mortality ratio (AAMR) per 1,000,000 individuals and determined mortality trends using the Joinpoint Regression Program. Subgroup analyses were performed by sex, race, region, and organ system. The study period was further stratified into three groups when specific drug regimens were more prevalent. ResultsIn the 22-year study period, 251,759 all-cause mortalities with comorbid HIV were identified. The leading cause of death was infectious disease (84.0%, N = 211,438). Men recorded a higher AAMR than women (4.66 vs 1.65, P < 0.01). African American individuals had the highest AAMR (13.46) compared to White, American Indian, and Asian individuals (1.70 vs 1.65 vs 0.47). The South region had the highest AAMR (4.32) and urban areas had a higher AAMR compared to rural areas (1.77 vs 0.88). ConclusionsMore than 80% of deaths occurred because of infectious disease over the last 2 decades with a decreasing trend over time when stratified by race, sex, and geographical region. Despite advances in HAART, mortality disparities persist which emphasizes the need for targeted interventions in these populations.

Virological Non-Suppression, Non-Adherence and the Associated Factors Among People Living with HIV on Dolutegravir-Based Regimens: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

HIV is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, with 39.0 million people living with HIV worldwide, 25.6 million of whom reside in the African region. Highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) has improved survival and quality of life, yet some patients develop viral non-suppression. Dolutegravir (DTG) has been recommended since 2018 as a first-line treatment option in low- and middle-income countries owing to its effectiveness, low cost, and tolerability, but some studies have reported virological non-suppression with its use. This study aims to explore the prevalence and factors associated with virological non-suppression in adults taking DTG-based regimens in Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. A retrospective cohort study was carried out among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) taking DTG-based HAART regimens by way of record review. SPSS was used for analysis, and both binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to test associated factors. Among the 422 participants' records reviewed, 62.8% were female (median age 40 years, IQR=13). The prevalence of virological non-suppression was 4.2%. Poor adherence to HAART was significantly associated with virological non-suppression, with 100.3 increased adjusted odds (95% CI: 28.90-348.12, p<0.001) compared to those with a record of good adherence. The reasons for poor adherence included alcohol use, stigma, forgetting to take medication, transport problems, and irregular timing of swallowing. This study found poor adherence to be associated with a 4.2% prevalence of virological non-suppression among PLWHIV in a large public HIV care clinic. Despite the high suppression rates on DTG-based regimens, adherence counseling and viral load monitoring need to be emphasized at all HIV care centers to mark the trends of virological non-suppression.

Fighting nature with nature: antiviral compounds that target retroviruses.

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a type of lentivirus that targets the human immune system and leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) at a later stage. Up to 2021, there are millions still living with HIV and many have lost their lives. To date, many anti-HIV compounds have been discovered in living organisms, especially plants and marine sponges. However, no treatment can offer a complete cure, but only suppressing it with a life-long medication, known as combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) or highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) which are often associated with various adverse effects. Also, it takes many years for a discovered compound to be approved for clinical use. Thus, by employing advanced technologies such as automation, conducting systematic screening and testing protocols may boost the discovery and development of potent and curative therapeutics for HIV infection/AIDS. In this review, we aim to summarize the antiretroviral therapies/compounds and their associated drawbacks since the discovery of azidothymidine. Additionally, we aim to provide an updated analysis of the most recent discoveries of promising antiretroviral candidates, along with an exploration of the current limitations within antiretroviral research. Finally, we intend to glean insightful perspectives and propose future research directions in this crucial area of study.

Immune recovery uveitis: a focus review.

Immune recovery uveitis (IRU) is an intraocular inflammation that typically occurs as part of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in the eye. Typically, it affects human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients with recognized or unrecognized cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis who are receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). IRU is a common cause of new vision loss in these patients, and it manifests with a wide range of symptoms and an increased risk of inflammatory complications, such as macular edema. Recently, similar IRU-like responses have been observed in non-HIV individuals with immune reconstitution following immunosuppression of diverse etiologies, posing challenges in diagnosis and treatment. This review provides an updated overview of the current literature on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, biomarkers, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment strategies for IRU.

Spectrum of Opportunistic Infections in People Living with HIV: A Tertiary Care Center Experience from North India

: Patients with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are proneto opportunistic infections (OIs) given their immunosuppressed state. OIs continue to cause morbidity and mortality in HIV/AIDS patients even after highly-active antiretroviral therapy (HAART); hence, attainment of the goals on health care programs,particularly in resource-poor countries, is hard to achieve. The prevalence of specific OIs varies in different countries and evenin different areas within the same country. Little information is available about the prevalence of OI in HIV patients fromdeveloping countries, especially India. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment contribute to increased life expectancy amonginfected patients delaying progression to AIDS. Hence, the present study was carried out to elucidate current frequencies andspectrum of OIs in HIV seropositive adult patients in Haryana and to evaluate the associated risk factors for OIs. Materialsand methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out at the Dept. of General Medicine in a tertiary care hospital in NorthIndia. Basic demographic details, anthropometric measurements, symptoms of HIV/OI, clinical examination, biochemicalinvestigations and treatment details were recorded. Patients aged 18 to 70 years and HIV seropositive subjects were includedin the study. Results: The study found that about 53.21% of HIV/AIDS patients on ART had one or more OIs. Tuberculosis(TB) was the predominant OI identified, with a prevalence of 25.71%. Candidiasis and herpes zoster were the second and thethird most prevalent OIs at 13.8% (101/731) and 7.25% (53/731), respectively. Age (43.4 ± 10.7 years), low income, illiteracy,low socioeconomic status, initial 4 months since initiation of ART, CD4 count &lt;200/mm3, body mass index of &lt;18.5 kg/m², poorART adherence, hemoglobin, albumin were strongly associated with OIs. Conclusion: The present study shows that TB is thecommonest OI in adults and the overall population of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Haryana and proves that OIs acrossdifferent patient groups vary significantly. Various factors like adherence to HAART, socioeconomic and education status ofpatients can influence the occurrence and outcome of these deadly infections.

High Serum Ferritin Level to Predict the Severity of Dengue Viral Infection

This study aims to identify common opportunistic infections and their prevalence among people living with HIV in Osogbo, Osun state, who are receiving treatments for the HIV virus, which has spread widely.A mixed study design was employed, including a hospital-based retrospective study and a Key Informant Interview. The retrospective study involved 280 HIV patients at State Specialists Hospital Asubiaro SSHA Osogbo, Nigeria, and collected socio-demographic, opportunistic infection diagnosis, and viral load test results. The study also included a Key Informant Interview with six health workers in the HIV care unit. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, while qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic approach.The study reveals that the majority of People Living with HIV are females (77.1%), with 69% unemployed and 28.6% employed. Most are married (82.5%). In 2020, 58.2% achieved viral suppression, while in 2021, 65.7% and 69% achieved it. Common opportunistic infections include tuberculosis, pruritus, oral candidiasis, and herpes zoster. The prevalence of opportunistic infections decreased from 9.0% to 7.6% between January 2020 and May 2022.The prevalence of opportunistic infections in the study was low, which is due to the high preventive measures employed by the health workers in the hospital. Hence adherence to HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy) medications helps to maintain healthy living for People living with HIV

Evaluation of tear film in patients with AIDS without opportunistic ocular infections in the era of COVID-19: A case-control study.

The assessment of tear film and ocular surface conditions in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been poorly studied thus far. We aim to assess tear film parameters, ocular surface characteristics, and dry eye disease (DED) symptoms of patients with AIDS who did not undergo highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). This case-control study included 154 age-, sex-, and ethnicity-matched healthy controls and patients with AIDS. All participants underwent comprehensive ocular surface assessment and subjective DED symptomology evaluation. Data were collected between March 2022 and July 2022. HAART-naïve patients with AIDS had a shorter noninvasive tear film breakup time (median 3.76 vs. 8.54 s), thinner tear film lipid layer thickness (median 73.00 vs. 91.00 nm), and lower Schirmer I test values (median 5.00 mm/5 min vs. 12.00 mm/5 min) (all P < 0.001). Moreover, higher corneal fluorescein staining scores (median 1.00 vs. 0.00) and higher upper, lower, and total meibomian gland grades were observed in AIDS patients (all P < 0.05). Negative correlations between the blood viral load and the Ocular Surface Disease Index score ( r = -3.50, P = 0.027) and the Schirmer I test score ( r = -0.374, P = 0.017) were detected in patients with AIDS. Altered tear film status was observed in individuals with HAART-naïve AIDS, even when there were no other ocular symptoms present. Therefore, patients with AIDS should be encouraged to undergo comprehensive ocular surface examinations to detect any subclinical tear film alterations occurring.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein among people living with HIV on highly active antiretroviral therapy: a systemic review and meta-analysis

The pathological consequences of inflammation persist in people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH), regardless of the positive outcomes of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The current systematic review and meta-analysis aims to understand and explore the levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and other cardiovascular disease (CVD)-risk factors including lipid profiles among PLWH on HAART. Major electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched to retrieve relevant global literature reporting on hs-CRP levels in PLWH on HAART. A total of twenty-two studies with an average participant age of 40 years were eligible for this systematic review and meta-analysis. Majority of the included studies were from Africa (n = 11), the United States (n = 6), and Europe (n = 5). Our systemic review showed that most studies reported increased levels of hs-CRP among PLWH on HAART when compared to controls (PLWH not on HAART or those without HIV), especially in studies from Africa. This was supported by a meta-analysis showing significantly elevated levels of hs-CRP in PLWH on HAART when compared to PLWH not on HAART (standardised mean difference [SMD] = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.10‑1.01, z = 2.41; p = 0.02) or those without HIV (SMD = 1.19; 95% CI = 0.76‑1.63, z = 5.35; p < 0.001). Where lipid profiles, as a major predictor for CVD risk, were also impaired in PLWH on HAART when compared to PLWH not on HAART and HIV-negative participants. In conclusion, elevated levels of hs-CRP and lipid levels are prevalent in PLWH on HAART, this may increase the risk of CVD complications, especially for those people living in Africa. However, more evidence in larger population studies is required to confirm these outcomes and unveil any possible clinical implications of HAART-induced modulation of hs-CRP levels in PLWH.

Clinical Profile of Patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) Seen in a Tertiary Eye Clinic.

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is the medication regimen for the management of human immunodeficiency virus. Over time, it has been dubbed to have revolutionised the clinical course and outcomes of HIV/AIDS. The objective of this study is to determine the clinical factors associated with the ocular manifestation of HIV/AIDS among patients on HAART. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the ophthalmology department of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in 2017 among adult patients (≥18 years) attending the hospital's antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic and selected using systematic random sampling technique. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data analysis, with variables being summarised using frequencies and proportions. Inferential statistics (t test, Chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test) was used to test associations between variables. A level of significance was set at a P value of less than 0.05 corresponding to a 95% confidence interval. A majority of patients were in WHO stages 1 and 2 of HIV and the mean CD4+ cell count of the whole population was 575.0 ± 512.56 cells/µL, while that of those with ocular manifestations was 315.2 ± 290.76 and 633.7 ± 533.54 cells/µL for those who do not have ocular manifestation. There was a significant association between CD4+ cell count and ocular manifestations such as conjunctival microvasculopathy, anterior uveitis, and cytomegalovirus retinitis. Our results suggest that HAART has some positive effect on the clinical profile of people with HIV/AIDS with CD4+ count being a major determinant of ocular manifestations.