Kidney disease in the setting of HIV infection: conclusions from a Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Controversies Conference

Dissecting drivers of immune activation in chronic HIV-1 infection

Background

Immune activation is a significant contributor to HIV pathogenesis and disease progression. In virally-suppressed individuals on ART, low-level immune activation has been linked to several non-infectious comorbid diseases. However, studies have not been systematically performed in sub-Saharan Africa and thus the impact of demographics, ART and regional endemic co-infections on immune activation is not known. We therefore comprehensively evaluated in a large multinational African cohort markers for immune activation and its distribution in various settings.

Methods

2747 specimens from 2240 people living with HIV (PLWH) and 477 without HIV from the observational African Cohort Study (AFRICOS) were analyzed for 13 immune parameters. Samples were collected along with medical history, sociodemographic and comorbidity data at 12 HIV clinics across 5 programs in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria. Data were analyzed with univariate and multivariate methods such as random forests and principal component analysis.

Findings

Immune activation was markedly different between PLWH with detectable viral loads, and individuals without HIV across sites. Among viremic PLWH, we found that all immune parameters were significantly correlated with viral load except for IFN-α. The overall inflammatory profile was distinct between men and women living with HIV, in individuals off ART and with HIV viremia. We observed stronger differences in the immune activation profile with increasing viremia. Using machine learning methods, we found that geographic differences contributed to unique inflammatory profiles. We also found that among PLWH, age and the presence of infectious and/or noninfectious comorbidities showed distinct inflammatory patterns, and biomarkers may be used to predict the presence of some comorbidities.

Interpretation

Our findings show that chronic immune activation in HIV-1 infection is influenced by HIV viral load, sex, age, region and ART use. These predictors, as well as associations among some biomarkers and coinfections, influence biomarkers associated with noncommunicable diseases.

Funding

This work was supported by the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief via a cooperative agreement between the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., and the U.S. Department of Defense [W81XWH-11-2-0174, W81XWH-18-2-0040]. The investigators have adhered to the policies for protection of human subjects as prescribed in AR 70–25. This article was prepared while Michael A. Eller was employed at Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine for the U.S. Military HIV Research Program. The views expressed are those of the authors and should not be construed to represent the positions of the US Army or the Department of Defense. The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own, and do not reflect the view of the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or the U.S. government.

Chronic Kidney Disease in a Large National Human Immunodeficiency Virus Treatment Program

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is associated with a risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in Asian populations. Data from the Thai national health insurance system was used to assess CKD incidence in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy in real-world practice. We analyzed data from patients who initiated one of the following first-line regimens: zidovudine + lamivudine + nevirapine (AZT + 3TC + NVP); zidovudine + lamivudine + efavirenz (AZT + 3TC + EFV); tenofovir + lamivudine + nevirapine (TDF + 3TC + NVP); tenofovir + lamivudine/emtricitabine + efavirenz (TDF + 3TC/FTC + EFV); and tenofovir +lamivudine +lopinavir/ritonavir (TDF + 3TC + LPV/r). CKD was defined as glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for >3 months, or a confirmed 2010 WHO diagnosis (ICD-10 code N183, N184, or N185). Death competing risk survival regression models were used. Among 27,313 participants, with a median age of 36.8 years and median follow-up of 2.3 years, 245 patients (0.9%) were diagnosed with CKD (incidence 3.2 per 1000 patient-years; 95% CI 2.8−3.6). Compared with patients receiving AZT + 3TC + NVP, the risk of CKD measured by adjusted sub-distribution hazard ratio (aSHR) was 6.5 (95% CI 3.9−11.1) in patients on TDF + 3TC + LPV/r, 3.8 (95% CI 2.3−6.0) in TDF + 3TC + NVP, and 1.6 (95% CI 1.2−2.3) in TDF + 3TC/FTC + EFV. Among patients receiving TDF, compared with those receiving TDF + 3TC/FTC + EFV, the aSHR was 4.0 (95% CI 2.3−6.8) in TDF + 3TC + LPV/r and 2.3 (95% CI 1.4−3.6) in TDF + 3TC + NVP. TDF was associated with an increased risk of CKD, especially when combined with LPV/r or NVP.

Factors Associated With Severity of COVID-19 Disease in a Multicenter Cohort of People With HIV in the United States, March-December 2020

BACKGROUND

Understanding the spectrum of COVID-19 in people with HIV (PWH) is critical to provide clinical guidance and risk reduction strategies.

SETTING

Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinic System, a US multisite clinical cohort of PWH in care.

METHODS

We identified COVID-19 cases and severity (hospitalization, intensive care, and death) in a large, diverse HIV cohort during March 1, 2020-December 31, 2020. We determined predictors and relative risks of hospitalization among PWH with COVID-19, adjusted for disease risk scores.

RESULTS

Of 16,056 PWH in care, 649 were diagnosed with COVID-19 between March and December 2020. Case fatality was 2%; 106 (16.3%) were hospitalized, and 12 died. PWH with current CD4 count <350 cells/mm 3 [aRR 2.68; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.93 to 3.71; P < 0.001] or lowest recorded CD4 count <200 cells/mm 3 (aRR 1.67; 95% CI: 1.18 to 2.36; P < 0.005) had greater risks of hospitalization. HIV viral load and antiretroviral therapy status were not associated with hospitalization, although most of the PWH were suppressed (86%). Black PWH were 51% more likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 compared with other racial/ethnic groups (aRR 1.51; 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.19; P = 0.03). Chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and increased cardiovascular and hepatic fibrosis risk scores were associated with higher hospitalization risk. PWH who were older, not on antiretroviral therapy, and with current CD4 count <350 cells/mm 3 , diabetes, and chronic kidney disease were overrepresented among PWH who required intubation or died.

CONCLUSIONS

PWH with CD4 count <350 cells/mm 3 , and a history of CD4 count <200 cells/mm 3 , have a clear excess risk of severe COVID-19, accounting for comorbidities associated with severe outcomes. PWH with these risk factors should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination and early treatment and monitored closely for worsening illness.

Clinicopathological correlation of kidney disease in HIV infection pre- and post-ART rollout

The spectrum of HIV-associated kidney disease has expanded significantly with the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART). In the pre-ART era there was prominence of HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN). More recently, the spectrum of disease additionally reflects comorbid illness in the ageing HIV population and ART-related nephrotoxicity. We performed a clinicopathological correlation of kidney disease in HIV-positive individuals who underwent kidney biopsy between 1989 and 2014, utilizing the 2018 Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes pathologic classification. ART rollout began in 2004 in South Africa. Patients biopsied pre-ART rollout were compared to those biopsied post-ART rollout with respect to demographics, clinical parameters and histology. We assessed kidney survival in a cohort of these patients following biopsy. Six hundred and ninety biopsies were included, 99 (14.3%) were undertaken pre- and 591 (85.7%) post-ART rollout. Most patients were of Black African descent (97.5%). The post-ART rollout patients were older (p = 0.007), had higher eGFR at presentation (p = 0.016) and fewer presented with eGFR of less than 15ml/min/1.73m2 (p = 0.0008). There was a decrease in the prevalence of classic HIVAN (p = 0.00001); and an increase in FSGS (NOS) in the setting of HIV (p = 0.0022) and tubulointerstitial diseases (p = 0.009) post-ART rollout. Kidney function survival over 5 years was poorest in patients with classic HIVAN (p = 0.00005) and best in minimal change nephropathy (p = 0.0013). Kidney biopsy is crucial for the correct diagnosis and management of HIV-related kidney disease. ART rollout has shifted the spectrum of kidney disease away from classic HIVAN but has not eliminated it. Histological diagnosis prognosticates kidney survival.

Emerging Viral Infections and the Potential Impact on Hypertension, Cardiovascular Disease, and Kidney Disease

Viruses are ubiquitous in the environment and continue to have a profound impact on human health and disease. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this with impressive morbidity and mortality affecting the world's population. Importantly, the link between viruses and hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease has resulted in a renewed focus and attention on this potential relationship. The virus responsible for COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, has a direct link to one of the major enzymatic regulatory systems connected to blood pressure control and hypertension pathogenesis, the renin-angiotensin system. This is because the entry point for SARS-CoV-2 is the ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) protein. ACE2 is one of the main enzymes responsible for dampening the primary effector peptide Ang II (angiotensin II), metabolizing it to Ang-(1-7). A myriad of clinical questions has since emerged and are covered in this review. Several other viruses have been linked to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and kidney health. Importantly, patients with high-risk apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) alleles are at risk for developing the kidney lesion of collapsing glomerulopathy after viral infection. This review will highlight several emerging viruses and their potential unique tropisms for the kidney and cardiovascular system. We focus on SARS-CoV-2 as this body of literature in regards to cardiovascular disease has advanced significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Association of impaired kidney function with mortality in rural Uganda: results of a general population cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between baseline kidney function and subsequent all-cause mortality.

DESIGN AND SETTING

A general population-based cohort study from rural Uganda.

PARTICIPANTS

People aged 18 years and above with measured baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), recruited from survey rounds in 2011-2012 or 2014-2015 and followed up to March 2019.

OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, identified through reports from community health workers and verified by verbal autopsy. The association between baseline eGFR category and mortality was determined using multivariable Cox regression.

RESULTS

Of 5812 participants in both rounds, we included 5678 (97.7%) participants with kidney function and mortality data; the median age was 36 years (IQR 24-50), 60.7% were female, 10.3% were hypertensive, 9.8% were HIV-positive and 1.5% were diabetic. During a median follow-up of 5.0 years (IQR 3.7-6.0) there were 140 deaths. In age-adjusted and sex-adjusted analyses, eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 at baseline was associated with a 5.97 (95% CI 2.55 to 13.98) increased risk of mortality compared with those with baseline eGFR >90 mL/min/1.73 m2. After inclusion of additional confounders (HIV, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, alcohol and smoking status) into the model, eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 at baseline remained strongly associated with mortality (HR 6.12, 95% CI 2.27 to 16.45), although the sample size fell to 3102. Test for trend showed strong evidence (p<0.001) that the rate of mortality increased progressively as the category of baseline kidney function decreased. When very high eGFR was included as a separate category in age-adjusted and sex-adjusted analyses, baseline eGFR ≥120 mL/min/1.73 m2 was associated with increased risk of mortality (HR 2.68, 95% CI 1.47 to 4.87) compared with the reference category of 90-119 mL/min/1.73 m2.

CONCLUSION

In a prospective cohort in rural Uganda we found that impaired baseline kidney function was associated with subsequently increased total mortality. Improved understanding of the determinants of kidney disease and its progression is needed in order to inform interventions for prevention and treatment.

Prevalence, progression, and management of advanced chronic kidney disease in a cohort of people living with HIV

BACKGROUND

Advanced kidney disease is an emerging problem in people living with HIV despite sustained viral suppression.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study to identify people living with HIV with advanced kidney disease according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria and to assess disease progression over a 48-week period following the offer of targeted multidisciplinary management.

RESULTS

From our cohort of 3090 individuals, 55 (1.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.31-2.25) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Most were male (83.6%), and the median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 58 (53.25-66.75) years. Nadir CD4 T-cell count was 135.5 (IQR 43.5-262.75) cells/μl, current CD4 T-cell count was 574 (IQR 438.5-816) cells/μl, and 96% had maintained HIV viral suppression. The most frequent comorbidity was arterial hypertension (85.5%). Inadequate antiretroviral dose was detected in three individuals (5.5%), and drug-drug interactions were recorded in eight (14.5%), mainly involving the use of cobicistat (n = 5 [9%]). Four individuals (7%) required modification of their concomitant treatment. Seven (13%) had to start or resume follow-up with a nephrologist. Nine participants (16.4%) experienced an improvement in kidney disease stage, three individuals (5.5%) underwent renal transplantation, and one (2%) started haemodialysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that a multidisciplinary approach, including a critical review of treatment and evaluation of specific requirements, could be useful for anticipating drug-drug interactions and toxicities and for reducing death and hospitalization in people living with HIV with advanced kidney disease.

HIV: the changing paradigm

The past four decades have seen enormous progress in the diagnosis and management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. There have been significant advances spanning the approval of the first antiretroviral agents, the advent of combination antiretroviral therapy to single tablet regimens with minimal toxicity. Although these remarkable developments have on the surface led to the 'end of AIDS', there are still key populations being left behind. This clinical update will describe the diagnosis and management of HIV, and the changing paradigms that have seen HIV transform from a life-limiting condition to a manageable chronic disease over a few decades.

Incidence of impaired kidney function among people with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In the era of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), the incidence, manifestations and severity of kidney diseases have dramatically changed in people living with HIV (PLWH). Little is known about the incidence of impaired kidney function (IKF) measured by serum creatine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in PLWH.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Ovid, Medline, Embase and Web of Science for studies published before May 7th, 2021, with estimates of incidence of IKF among PLWH. We independently reviewed each study for quality by using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The incidence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects model.

RESULTS

Sixty out of 3797 identifiable studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. A total of 19 definitions of IKF were described and categorized into three types: the threshold of eGFR, an absolute or percent decrease in eGFR, and certain eGFR threshold combined with decrement in eGFR. The eGFR< 60 ml/min/1.73m2 was the most widely used definition or criterion for IKF, by which the pooled incidence rate of IKF was 12.50 (95%CI: 9.00-17.36) per 1000 person years (PYs). The second most-studied outcome was a > 25% decrease in eGFR, followed by eGFR< 90 ml/min/1.73m2, eGFR< 30 ml/min/1.73m2 and a combination of eGFR threshold plus decreased eGFR. The reported incidence rates of IKF differ widely by different definitions of IKF. The highest pooled incidence was observed for those with > 25% decrease in eGFR, while the lowest was observed in those with eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73m2. Substantial heterogeneity was identified across most estimates.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides a comprehensive summary of eGFR-based definitions and incidence rates of IKF in PLWH, not only promoting our understanding of IKF, but also underscoring needs for a concerted action to unify definitions and outcomes of IKF and their applications in AIDS care.

The spectrum of kidney biopsy findings in Chinese HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVES

HIV-associated kidney disease is common but data on the pathology spectrum of kidney biopsy in China is lacking. This study aimed to illustrate the clinical presentation, laboratory findings and pathological spectrum of different subtypes of HIV-associated kidney disease in China.

METHODS

Eighteen HIV patients with renal biopsy indications at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2002 to October 2021 were retrospectively enrolled. All had CD4 counts and HIV viral load measurements. Renal biopsies were examined with light microscopy, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy. Shapiro-Wilk test was used to test whether the data was normally distributed. The data is presented as medians (interquartile range), number (%), or means (±SD) according to their distribution.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients had glomerular disease, and one patient had interstitial nephritis. Membranous nephropathy was present in eight patients (47.1%), and IgA nephropathy in four patients (23.5%). The difference in urine protein and serum albumin before and after treatment was statistically significant and no deaths or dialysis were observed to the end of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This study found that classic HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) was uncommon in Chinese HIV patients. HIV immune complex kidney (HIVICK) disease, such as membranous or IgA nephropathy, was more common, and associated with better prognosis. Antiretroviral therapy, ACE inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers were effective in decreasing proteinuria and preserving renal function. The use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents seems safe. However, the nephrotoxic effect of antiretroviral agents and other medications should be carefully monitored.

Erythropoietin and iron for anemia in HIV-infected patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis in China: a cross-sectional study

Background

Anemia is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and HIV infection. The number of people living with HIV on hemodialysis (HD) is increasing. However, there is no data about anemia and related therapies in this kind of patients in China. We aim to assess the difference in hemoglobin (Hgb) and treatments like erythropoietin and iron between HIV-HD patients and HD patients in Chengdu, China.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with data collection from January 2020 to June 2020. Thirty-four HIV-infected HD patients and thirty-five non-HIV-infected HD patients were included. Age, gender, dialysis vintage, single-pool (sp) Kt/V, Hgb, the dose of erythropoietin, ferritin, use of iron preparations, and serum albumin were collected in all patients. Time since HIV diagnosis, counts of CD4 + T cells, HIV RNA, and antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection were collected in HIV-infected patients. T-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and chi-square statistics were applied in SPSS.

Results

The Hgb of HIV-HD and HD groups were 105.70 (95.93–112.08) g/L and 112.00 (93.00–126.00) g/L respectively (P = 0.064). There was a statistically significant higher erythropoietin dosage used in the HIV-HD population (222.55 ± 115.47 U/kg/week) compared to the HIV-negative HD group (161.86 ± 110.31 U/kg/week) (P = 0.029). 16/34 (47.06%) HIV-HD patients and 5/35 (14.29%) HD patients were treated with iron preparations (P = 0.003). The ferritin levels were 316.50 (117.38–589.75) ng/ml and 272.70 (205.00–434.00) ng/ml in HIV-HD and HD groups respectively.

Conclusions

A higher erythropoietin dosage and a higher probability of iron preparations may be required to maintain Hgb in HIV-HD patients compared with HD patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12882-022-02693-y.

Clinical Profile of Adult Patients Presenting With Renal Dysfunction to a Tertiary Hospital Emergency Department

Background Renal dysfunction is a potentially life-threatening condition that is commonly encountered in the emergency department (ED). This study aimed to describe the clinical profile of patients presenting with renal dysfunction to a tertiary-level hospital ED. Methods Medical records of patients presenting to the ED with renal dysfunction over a six-month period (July-December 2017) were reviewed. A descriptive analysis of the data was performed. Results Serum creatinine levels were measured in 7,442 (69.9%) of the 10,642 patients that were triaged into the ED. Of these, 208 (2.8%) were identified with renal dysfunction, of which 192 consented to study participation. The median age of study subjects was 49.5 (IQR 38.8-63.0) years; 108 (56.3%) were male; proteinuria on urine dipsticks was demonstrated in 108 (56.3%); 72 (37.5%) were HIV-positive; 66 (39.6%) required dialysis; 11 (5.7%) were admitted to the ICU; and 59 (30.7%) died prior to hospital discharge. More patients presented with acute kidney injury (AKI) (46.9%) compared to chronic kidney disease (CKD) (27.6%) and acute on chronic kidney disease (AoCKD) (25.5%). Sepsis was the most common precipitant of AKI (42.2%) and AoCKD (30.6%), while chronic hypertension (35.8%) and diabetes mellitus (34.0%) were the most common comorbidities in subjects with CKD. Conclusion Patients presenting to the ED with various risk factors and comorbidities, including HIV, sepsis, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus, may have underlying renal dysfunction. ED clinicians should therefore adopt a low threshold to screen for renal dysfunction in these patients.

Interaction of sex and HIV infection on renal impairment: baseline evidence from the CHART cohort

OBJECTIVE

Females are more vulnerable to renal impairment (RI) in people living with HIV (PLWH), but few studies have examined sex disparity in the association of HIV serostatus with RI.

METHODS

In total, 2,101 PLWH on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and 4,202 HIV-negative people were selected and frequency matched in 1:2 ratio by sex and age categories. RI was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <90 mL/min/1.73 m². The interaction effect of sex with HIV serostatus and correlates of RI were assessed by logistic regression models.

RESULTS

In total, 78.2% of participants were males with median age 43.7 (IQR: 32.5-54.4) years. The prevalence of RI was comparable for PLWH and HIV-negative people overall (30.4% vs 30.1%) but significantly higher for HIV-positive females (37.1%) than HIV-negative females (30.1%). Multiple logistic regression identified an interaction between sex and HIV serostatus on RI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] of the interaction term: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.23-2.26). HIV infection was significantly associated with RI in females (aOR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.17-2.06) but not in males. Central obesity and nadir CD4 count were significantly associated with RI in HIV-infected females but not in HIV-infected males.

CONCLUSIONS

Sex seems to modify the association between HIV infection and RI, suggesting a sex-specific mechanistic pathogenesis of RI in PLWH, which warrants further investigation and intervention.

Impact of Antiretroviral Therapy on Kidney Disease in HIV Infected Individuals - A Qualitative Systematic Review

Kidney disease is the fourth most common cause of non-AIDS-related mortality in people living with HIV. Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) remains the cornerstone of treatment. However, little is known about the impact of cART on disease outcomes in patients with HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) and HIV-immune complex kidney disease (HIVICK). This systematic review evaluates the impact of cART on progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and other outcomes in HIV-infected individuals. We conducted a literature search utilizing PubMed, and Cochrane database and 11 articles met inclusion criteria for analysis of which nine HIVAN studies showed decreased progression to ESKD or death for subjects when treated with cART versus those untreated. However, two studies showed no survival advantage with cART. Three HIVICK studies showed improvement in delaying ESKD in subjects on cART compared to untreated subjects. cART appeared to reduce the risk to ESKD or death in patients with both HIVAN and HIVICK.

Profiling Biomarkers in HIV Glomerular Disease – Potential for the Non-Invasive Diagnosis of HIVAN?

Background

There is a wide spectrum of kidney pathology in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, affecting all structures of the kidney. The histology of HIV chronic kidney disease (CKD) is diverse, ranging from HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) to focal glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), HIV-immune complex disease (HIV-ICD), other glomerulopathies and tubulo-interstitial nephritis. Definitive diagnosis is by kidney biopsy, an invasive procedure. However, serum and urinary biomarkers may be useful in predicting the histological diagnosis of HIVAN.

Purpose

We wished to determine the utility of serum and urinary biomarkers in predicting the histological diagnosis of HIVAN.

Patients and Methods

We measured neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), cystatin C, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β isoforms and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-7 in the serum and urine in patients with different histological forms of HIV glomerular disease.

Results

In HIVAN, we demonstrated increased levels of serum cystatin C and increased levels of serum and urinary NGAL. Urinary TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 levels were elevated in HIV-positive patients with CKD but were not significantly different in the different HIV histologies, while urinary BMP-7 levels were elevated in minimal change disease.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the presence of increased serum and urinary biomarkers of tubular injury in patients with HIVAN, and increased urinary biomarkers of fibrosis in HIV CKD, and may indicate their value as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of HIVAN.

Longitudinal Outcomes of COVID-19-Associated Collapsing Glomerulopathy and Other Podocytopathies

BACKGROUND

The long-term outcome of COVID-19-associated collapsing glomerulopathy is unknown.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 76 native kidney biopsies from patients with history of COVID-19 between March 2020 and April 2021. Presenting and outcome data were obtained for all 23 patients with collapsing glomerulopathy and for seven patients with noncollapsing podocytopathies. We performed APOL1 genotyping by Sanger sequencing, immunostaining for spike and nucleocapsid proteins, and in situ hybridization for SARS-CoV-2.

RESULTS

The 23 patients with COVID-19-associated collapsing glomerulopathy were median age 57 years (range, 35-72), included 16 men, and were predominantly (91%) Black. Severity of COVID-19 was mild or moderate in most (77%) patients. All but one patient presented with AKI, 17 had nephrotic-range proteinuria, and six had nephrotic syndrome. Fourteen (61%) patients required dialysis at presentation. Among 17 patients genotyped, 16 (94%) were high-risk APOL1. Among 22 (96%) patients with median follow-up at 155 days (range, 30-412), 11 (50%) received treatment for COVID-19, and eight (36%) received glucocorticoid therapy for podocytopathy. At follow-up, 19 (86%) patients were alive, and 15 (68%) were dialysis free, including seven of 14 who initially required dialysis. The dialysis-free patients included 64% (seven of 11) of those treated for COVID-19 and 75% (six of eight) of those treated with glucocorticoids for podocytopathy. Overall, 36% achieved partial remission of proteinuria, 32% had no remission, and 32% reached combined end points of ESKD or death. Viral infection of the kidney was not detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Half of 14 patients with COVID-19-associated collapsing glomerulopathy requiring dialysis achieved dialysis independence, but the long-term prognosis of residual proteinuric CKD remains guarded, indicating a need for more effective therapy.

Renal adverse drug reactions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in people living with HIV (PLWH) and is related to a multitude of factors. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the most recent evidence of renal adverse effects of antiretroviral drugs, predictors of CKD risk and areas for future research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advancing age, cardiometabolic risk factors and adverse effects of antiretroviral drugs contribute to the higher prevalence of CKD in PLWH. Genetic factors and baseline clinical CKD risk are strongly correlated to risk of incident CKD, although it is unclear to what extent gene polymorphisms explain renal adverse effects related to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). Switching from TDF to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) in people with baseline renal dysfunction improves renal parameters; however, the long-term safety and benefit of TAF in individuals at low risk of CKD is an area of ongoing research.

SUMMARY

Several factors contribute to estimated glomerular function decline and CKD in PLWH. Clinical risk scores for CKD may be useful to inform selection of ART in an ageing population. In people with baseline renal dysfunction, potentially nephrotoxic antiretroviral drugs should be avoided.

Factors associated with severity of COVID-19 disease in a multicenter cohort of people with HIV in the United States, March-December 2020

BACKGROUND

Understanding the spectrum of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease in people with HIV (PWH) is critical to provide clinical guidance and implement risk-reduction strategies.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize COVID-19 in PWH in the United States and identify predictors of disease severity.

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

SETTING

Geographically diverse clinical sites in the CFAR Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS).

PARTICIPANTS

Adults receiving HIV care through December 31, 2020.

MEASUREMENTS

COVID-19 cases and severity (hospitalization, intensive care, death).

RESULTS

Of 16,056 PWH in care, 649 were diagnosed with COVID-19 between March-December 2020. Case fatality was 2%; 106 (16.3%) were hospitalized and 12 died. PWH with current CD4 count <350 cells/mm ³ (aRR 2.68; 95%CI 1.93-3.71; P<.001) or lowest recorded CD4 count <200 (aRR 1.67; 95%CI 1.18-2.36; P<.005) had greater risk of hospitalization. HIV viral load suppression and antiretroviral therapy (ART) status were not associated with hospitalization, although the majority of PWH were suppressed (86%). Black PWH were 51% more likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 compared to other racial/ethnic groups (aRR 1.51; 95%CI 1.04-2.19, P=.03). Chronic kidney disease (CKD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and increased cardiovascular and hepatic fibrosis risk scores were associated with higher risk of hospitalization. PWH who were older, not on ART, with current CD4 <350, diabetes, and CKD were overrepresented amongst PWH who required intubation or died.

LIMITATIONS

Unable to compare directly to persons without HIV; underestimate of total COVID-19 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

PWH with CD4 <350 cells/mm ³ , low CD4/CD8 ratio, and history of CD4 <200, have a clear excess risk of severe COVID-19, after accounting for comorbidities also associated with severe outcomes. PWH with these risk factors should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination, early treatment, and monitored closely for worsening illness.

Prescribing rates and characteristics of recipients of tenofovir-containing regimens before and after market entry of tenofovir alafenamide

BACKGROUND: Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is a new formulation of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) that was approved in 2015. While clinical trial evidence suggests that TAF has more favorable outcomes related to kidney injury and loss of bone mineral density, TAF also leads to higher lipid levels compared with TDF. OBJECTIVES: To (a) determine prescribing rates of TDF and TAF among new recipients from 2014 to 2018 in a large academic health system and (b) compare baseline patient characteristics of those newly prescribed TDF versus TAF before and after the approval of TAF in November 2015. METHODS: Electronic health record data were used to identify new recipients of TDF or TAF from 2014 to 2018 and describe their total monthly TDF and TAF prescriptions by indication. Patient characteristics were compared among new recipients of TDF before November 2015, new recipients of TDF after November 2015, and new recipients of TAF. RESULTS: Monthly TAF prescribing rates increased to match TDF prescribing rates by April 2018 (82 vs. 88 prescriptions per month). TAF recipients and new recipients of TDF before November 2015 had similar racial distributions; both of these groups were more likely to be Black compared with new recipients of TDF after November 2015 (55% and 53% vs. 37%; P < 0.0001). TAF recipients also tended to have more comorbidities, including chronic kidney disease (7% vs. 2% and 2%; P < 0.0001), hepatitis C virus (8% vs. 5% and 3%; P < 0.0001), diabetes (13% vs. 5% and 6%; P < 0.0001), hypertension (27% vs. 13% and 13%; P < 0.0001), coronary artery disease (5% vs. 3% and 2%; P < 0.0001), hyperlipidemia (21% vs. 6% and 7%; P < 0.0001), and congestive heart failure (3% vs. 1% and 1%; P < 0.0001), compared with both new recipients of TDF before and after November 2015. CONCLUSIONS: TAF prescribing rates grew substantially in the 2.5 years after FDA approval. TAF is being prescribed more often than TDF in patients with chronic kidney disease and in patients with cardiovascular disease, suggesting that prescribers may be prioritizing the kidney safety profile over the effect on lipids. DISCLOSURES: This work was supported by the Duke Clinical Research Institute Executive Director's Pathway for Supplemental Funding. The research team received additional support from the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Disease R01DK112258 and P01DK056492 (CW) and from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 5T32AI100851 (MHM). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. Hung reports past employment by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and CVS Health and a grant from Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), unrelated to this work. The other authors have nothing to disclose. This work was accepted as a poster presentation for the AMCP Nexus 2020 Virtual, October 19-23, 2020.

The epidemiology of kidney disease in people of African ancestry with HIV in the UK

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The risk of CKD is increased in people of African ancestry and with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study investigating the relationship between region of ancestry (East, Central, South or West Africa) and kidney disease in people of sub-Saharan African ancestry with HIV in the UK between May 2018 and February 2020. The primary outcome was renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2). Secondary outcomes were stage 5 CKD (eGFR <15 ml/min/1.73 m2, on dialysis for over 3 months or who had received a kidney transplant), proteinuria (urine protein/creatinine ratio >50 mg/mmol), and biopsy-confirmed HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) or arterionephrosclerosis. Multivariable robust Poisson regression estimated the effect of region of African ancestry on kidney disease outcomes.

FINDINGS

Of the 2468 participants (mean age 48.1 [SD 9.8] years, 62% female), 193 had renal impairment, 87 stage 5 CKD, 126 proteinuria, and 43 HIVAN/FSGS or arterionephrosclerosis. After adjusting for demographic characteristics, HIV and several CKD risk factors and with East African ancestry as referent, West African ancestry was associated with renal impairment (prevalence ratio [PR] 2.06 [95% CI 1.40-3.04]) and stage 5 CKD (PR 2.23 [1.23-4.04]), but not with proteinuria (PR 1.27 [0.78-2.05]). West African ancestry (as compared to East/South African ancestry) was also strongly associated with a diagnosis of HIVAN/FSGS or arterionephrosclerosis on kidney biopsy (PR 6.44 [2.42-17.14]).

INTERPRETATION

Our results indicate that people of West African ancestry with HIV are at increased risk of kidney disease. Although we cannot rule out the possibility of residual confounding, geographical region of origin appears to be a strong independent risk factor for CKD as the association did not appear to be explained by several demographic, HIV or renal risk factors.

Kidney Transplantation in HIV-positive Patients: Current Practice and Management Strategies

BACKGROUND

HIV-positive patients had been successfully transplanted for the last 15 y and the donor pool had successfully been expanded to also include HIV-positive donors.

METHODS

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of transplantation in HIV-positive patients and highlight some of the important issues reported in the literature. We pooled clinical data from different cohorts to show some of the common issues encountered in HIV-positive transplantation. Furthermore, we searched MEDLINE via PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL to create a comprehensive table for current evidence for different issues currently encountered when transplanting HIV-positive patients.

RESULTS

We included data from 19 cohort studies and reported on outcomes of the current HIV-positive transplant programs. We made recommendations based on personal experience as well as the experience reported in the literature regarding rejection, opportunistic infection, and HIV-associated nephropathy. Opportunistic infections and malignancies are not a major problem for this population group.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-positive patients encounter very specific issues after transplantation, specifically related to drug interactions and higher rejection rates. When utilizing HIV-positive donors, the recurrence of HIV-associated nephropathy in the graft kidney is an issue which can be important. Despite some issues with high rejection rates, HIV-positive patients have similar results to HIV-negative patients posttransplantation.

Urinary biomarkers of early renal injury in antiretroviral-naïve HIV-positive persons in Shanghai, China: comparison with the general population

Objectives

People living with HIV (PLWH) have a high risk of kidney injury. Measurement of serum creatinine, along with proteinuria, is not sensitive to detect early kidney injury. Here, we investigated novel urinary biomarkers of early renal injury in PLWH.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study of 166 antiretroviral‐naïve PLWH and 99 HIV‐negative persons who all had an estimated glomerular filtration rate > 90 mL/min/1.73 m². We compared the levels of seven urinary biomarkers between the two groups using the propensity score matching (PSM) approach and explored the risk factors associated with elevated urinary biomarkers in PLWH.

Results

Eighty‐three pairs were successfully matched based on PSM. Compared with the HIV‐negative group, the HIV‐positive group had higher ratios of N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) to urine creatinine (UCr), alpha1‐microglobulin (α1‐M) to UCr, kidney injury marker‐1 (KIM‐1) to UCr, neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin to UCr, and epidermal growth factor to UCr, whereas the Tamm–Horsfall protein to UCr ratio and the abnormal albumin to UCr ratio were not significantly different. Positive correlations were observed between HIV RNA level and NAG: UCr (r_s = 0.32; P < 0.001) and α1‐M:UCr (r_s = 0.24; P = 0.002) ratios, and negative correlations were observed between CD4 cell count and NAG:UCr (r_s = –0.34; P < 0.001), KIM‐1:UCr (r_s = –0.16; P = 0.042) and α1‐M:UCr (r_s = –0.36; P < 0.001) ratios. In multivariate linear regression analyses, older age, lower total cholesterol and higher HIV RNA were independently associated with higher NAG:UCr; older age, lower total cholesterol and lower CD4 cell count were independently associated with higher α1‐M:UCr.

Conclusions

In comparioson with HIV‐negative participants, PLWH were more likely to have tubular injury. Early antiretroviral treatment might mitigate the development of kidney injury.

Serum electrolytes and renal alterations in HIV-seropositive Mexican subjects

To examine potential risk factors associated with biochemical alterations in renal function in a population diagnosed with HIV/AIDS undergoing antiretroviral treatment.This is an observational, transversal, and relational design study that included 179 HIV-seropositive subjects. Glucose serum, cholesterol, triglycerides, total proteins, albumin, creatine, urea, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and electrolytes levels were determined for each individual. Renal function was evaluated through the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), using the CKD-EPI equation. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate  < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Univariate model significant variables, with a 95% confidence interval (CI), were included in a multivariate logistic regression analysis.CKD prevalence in patients was 7.3%, with comorbidities of 7.8% for type 2 diabetes mellitus, 7.3% for arterial hypertension, and 35.2% for dyslipidemia. Additionally, both hypernatremia and hypophosphatemia were detected in 57% (n = 102) of the patients. Multivariate logistic regression suggested that CD4+ T cell count < 200 (P = .02; OR 0.2; CI 95% 0.08-0.8) was associated to hyponatremia; similarly, detectable viral load was associated to hypokalemia (P = .02; OR 5.1; CI 95% 1.2-21.3), hypocalcemia (P = .01; OR 4.1; CI 95% 1.3-12.3), and hypermagnesemia (OR 3.9; CI 95% 1.1-13.6). Patient age was associated to both hypophosphatemia (P = .01; OR 2.4; CI 95% 1.1-5.0) and hypermagnesemia (P = .01; OR 2.8; IC 95% 1.1-7.0), and high creatinine levels were associated to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor treatment (P = .001; OR 42.5; CI 95% 2.2-806.9). Lastly, high BUN levels were associated to age (P = .03; OR 3.8; CI 95% 1.0-14.4), while GFR 60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m2 was associated to dyslipidemia (P = .02; OR 2.2; CI 95% 1.1-4.5).CD4+ T cell and viral load were the main factors associated with renal biochemical alterations.

Renal Phosphate Handling in Antiretroviral-naive HIV-Infected Patients

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection impairs renal function, thereby affecting renal phosphate metabolism.

OBJECTIVES

We prospectively estimated the prevalence of phosphate abnormalities (mild, moderate to life-threatening hypophosphataemia, and hyperphosphataemia) before initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART).

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was performed on 170 consecutive newly diagnosed ARTnaive, HIV-infected patients attending our HIV/AIDS clinics over a period of one year. Fifty (50) screened HIV-negative blood donors were used for comparison (controls). Blood and urine were collected simultaneously for phosphate and creatinine assay to estimate fractional phosphate excretion (FEPi %) and glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

RESULTS

eGFR showed significant difference between patients' and controls' medians (47.89ml/ min/1.73m2 versus 60ml/min/1.73m2, p <0.001); which denotes a moderate chronic kidney disease in the patients. Of the 170 patients, 78 (45.9%) had normal plasma phosphate (0.6-1.4 mmol/L); 85 (50%) had hyperphosphataemia. Grades 1, 2 and 3 hypophosphataemia was observed in 3 (1.8%), 3 (1.8%), and 1(0.5%) patient(s) respectively. None had grade 4 hypophosphataemia. Overall, the patients had significantly higher median of plasma phosphate than the controls, 1.4 mmol/L (IQR: 1.0 - 2.2) versus 1.1 mmol/L (IQR: 0.3 - 1.6), p <0.001, implying hyperphosphataemia in the patients; significantly lower median urine phosphate than the controls, 1.5 mmol/L (IQR: 0.7 -2.1) versus 8.4 mmol/L (IQR: 3.4 - 16), p <0.001), justifying the hyperphosphataemia is from phosphate retention; but a non-significantly lower median FEPi% than the controls, 0.96% (IQR: 0.3 -2.2) versus 1.4% (IQR: 1.2 -1.6), p > 0.05. Predictors of FEPi% were age (Odds ratio, OR 0.9, p = 0.009); weight (OR 2.0, p < 0.001); CD4+ cells count predicted urine phosphate among males (p = 0.029).

CONCLUSION

HIV infection likely induces renal insufficiency with reduced renal phosphate clearance. Thus, hyperphosphataemia is highly prevalent, and there is mild to moderate hypophosphataemia but its life-threatening form (grade 4) is rare among ART-naive HIV patients.

Inhibition of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 mitigates the pathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals. Among the HIV-related kidney diseases, HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a rapidly progressive renal disease characterized by collapsing focal glomerulosclerosis (GS), microcystic tubular dilation, interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. Although the incidence of end-stage renal disease due to HIVAN has dramatically decreased with the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy, the prevalence of CKD continues to increase in HIV-positive individuals. Recent studies have highlighted the role of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) in driving kidney disease progression through the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase and selective ASK-1 inhibitor GS-444217 was recently shown to reduce kidney injury and disease progression in various experimental models. Therefore we examined the efficacy of ASK1 antagonism by GS-444217 in the attenuation of HIVAN in Tg26 mice.

METHODS

GS-444217-supplemented rodent chow was administered in Tg26 mice at 4 weeks of age when mild GS and proteinuria were already established. After 6 weeks of treatment, the kidney function assessment and histological analyses were performed and compared between age- and gender-matched control Tg26 and GS-444217-treated Tg26 mice.

RESULTS

GS-444217 attenuated the development of GS, podocyte loss, tubular injury, interstitial inflammation and renal fibrosis in Tg26 mice. These improvements were accompanied by a marked reduction in albuminuria and improved renal function. Taken together, GS-4442217 attenuated the full spectrum of HIVAN pathology in Tg26 mice.

CONCLUSIONS

ASK1 signaling cascade is central to the development of HIVAN in Tg26 mice. Our results suggest that the select inhibition of ASK1 could be a potential adjunctive therapy for the treatment of HIVAN.

Risk of chronic kidney disease in people living with HIV by tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) use and baseline D:A:D chronic kidney disease risk score

OBJECTIVES

To assess the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) use by baseline D:A:D CKD risk score.

METHODS

Adult antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve people living with HIV (PLWH) initiating treatment, with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 , were identified in the OPERA cohort. CKD was defined as two or more consecutive eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 , > 90 days apart. Associations between TDF use, baseline D:A:D CKD risk and incident CKD were assessed with incidence rates (IRs; Poisson regression) and adjusted pooled logistic regression. The impact of pharmacoenhancers on the observed association between TDF and CKD was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 9802 PLWH included, 6222 initiated TDF and 3580 did not (76% and 79% low D:A:D CKD risk, respectively). Overall, 125 CKD events occurred over 24 382 person-years of follow-up. Within strata of D:A:D CKD risk score, IRs were similar across TDF exposure, with high baseline CKD risk associated with highest incidence. Compared with the low-risk group without TDF, there was no statistical difference in odds of incident CKD in the low-risk group with TDF (adjusted odds ratio = 0.55, 95% confidence interval: 0.19-1.54). Odds of incident CKD did not differ statistically significantly by pharmacoenhancer exposure, with or without TDF.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort of ART-naïve PLWH, incident CKD following ART initiation was infrequent and strongly associated with baseline CKD risk. TDF-containing regimens did not increase the odds of CKD in those with a low baseline D:A:D CKD risk, the largest group of ART-naïve PLWH, and may remain a viable treatment option in appropriate settings.

HIV-associated nephropathy: Protocol and rationale for an exploratory genotype-phenotype study in a sub-Saharan African population

BACKGROUND

HIV-positive persons of African descent are disproportionately affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). Deterioration to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) also occurs in this population at a higher frequency. There remains a lot to learn about the genetic susceptibility to CKD in HIV positive patients, and the pathophysiology of progression to ESKD.

OBJECTIVES

We will conduct an exploratory genotype-phenotype study in HIV-positive persons with CKD in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, to determine blood-based differential gene expression biomarkers in different kidney risk groups according to the KDIGO 2012 criteria.

METHODS

We will consecutively screen 150 HIV-positive adults (≥18 years of age) attending the HIV clinic of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria, for CKD based on proteinuria and elevation of estimated glomerular filtration rate. Among these, two separate groups of 16 eligible participants each (n = 32) will be selected in the four (4) KDIGO 2012 kidney risk categories. The groups will be matched for age, sex, viral suppression level and antiretroviral (ARV) regimen. In the first group (n = 16), we will determine differential gene expression markers in peripheral blood mononuclear cells using mRNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq). We will validate the differential expression markers in the second group (n = 16) using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Using a systems-based approach, we will construct, visualize and analyze gene-gene interaction networks to determine the potential biological roles of identified differential expression markers based on published literature and publicly available databases.

RESULTS

Our exploratory study will provide valuable information on the potential roles of differential expression biomarkers in the pathophysiology of HIV-associated kidney disease by identifying novel biomarkers in different risk categories of CKD in a sub-Saharan African population. The results of this study will provide the basis for population-based genome-wide association studies to guide future personalized medicine approaches.

CONCLUSION

Validated biomarkers can be potential targets for the development of stage-specific therapeutic interventions, an essential paradigm in precision medicine.

Brief Report: Subclinical Kidney Dysfunction in HIV-Infected Children: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

Most of the kidney dysfunction in HIV-positive children receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) is attributed to tenofovir. There is a paucity of data on kidney dysfunction in tenofovir-naive children. The primary objective was to know the point prevalence of albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria in HIV-infected children aged 3-18 years receiving ART. Albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria were used as surrogates for glomerular and tubular dysfunction, respectively. The secondary objective was to determine their predictors.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study-design.

METHODS

One hundred consecutive HIV-positive children (3-18 years) on ART were included. Spot urine sample was analyzed for urinary creatinine, total protein, microalbumin, and β2-microglobulin. Albuminuria was defined as albumin to creatinine ratio of >30 mg/g; proteinuria as urine dipstick ≥trace or spot urine protein to creatinine ratio (uPCR) of ≥0.2. β2-microglobulinuria was defined as β2-microglobulin levels of >350 µg/L.

RESULTS

There were 71 boys and 29 girls. Most of the children had WHO clinical stage I and were getting zidovudine-based regimen. Only 7 children were getting tenofovir. estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate and serum creatinine were normal in all children. Approximately half (48%) had renal dysfunction in the form of glomerular dysfunction (26%), tubular dysfunction (27%), or both (5%). Age at diagnosis was significantly associated with β2-microglobulinuria (P = 0.044). None of the selected variables were associated with albuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-associated glomerular and tubular dysfunction is common in children receiving ART other than tenofovir. The standard guidelines should consider including routine urinary biomarker monitoring in children on ART.

Low expression of HIV genes in podocytes accelerates the progression of diabetic kidney disease in mice

With the widespread use combination antiretroviral therapy, there has been a dramatic decrease in HIV-associated nephropathy. However, although the patients living with HIV have low or undetectable viral load, the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in this population remains high. Additionally, improved survival is associated with aging-related comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A faster progression of CKD is associated with concurrent HIV infection and diabetes than with HIV infection or diabetes alone. To explore the potential pathogenic mechanisms that synergistically drive CKD progression by diabetes and HIV infection, we generated a new mouse model with a relatively low expression of HIV-1 proviral genes specifically in podocytes (pod-HIV mice) to better mimic the setting of kidney injury in patients living with HIV. While no apparent kidney phenotypes were observed at baseline in pod-HIV mice, the induction of mild diabetic kidney disease with streptozotocin led to significant worsening of albuminuria, glomerular injury, podocyte loss, and kidney dysfunction as compared to the mice with diabetes alone. Mechanistically, diabetes and HIV-1 synergistically increased the glomerular expression of microRNA-34a (miR-34a), thereby reducing the expression of Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) deacetylase. These changes were also associated with increased acetylation and activation of p53 and p65 NF-κB and with enhanced expression of senescence and inflammatory markers. The treatment of diabetic pod-HIV mice with the specific Sirtuin-1 agonist BF175 significantly attenuated albuminuria and glomerulopathy. Thus, our study highlights the reduction in Sirtuin-1 as a major basis of CKD progression in diabetic patients living with HIV and suggests Sirtuin-1 agonists as a potential therapy.

Multifactorial diabetes insipidus during pregnancy: a challenging diagnosis

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is characterised by thirst and polydipsia with hypotonic polyuria. Several forms exist, namely, central or pituitary, nephrogenic and gestational and must be differentiated for adequate treatment. We describe the case of a 41-year-old woman chronically infected with HIV who had been recently medicated with a tenofovir-based antiretroviral treatment and who, at 22 weeks of pregnancy, presented with transient gestational DI. Obstetric ultrasound revealed oligohydramnios and foetal growth restriction that did not improve despite serum sodium correction. The severity of the case suggested the presence of an underlying disorder and elevated copeptin levels indicated that an underlying subclinical form of nephrogenic DI, possibly induced by HIV-related nephropathy or tenofovir use, was present and rendered clinically overt during pregnancy.

HIV-1 infection of the kidney: mechanisms and implications

People living with HIV are at higher risk for acute and chronic kidney disease compared with uninfected individuals. Kidney disease in this population is multifactorial, with several contributors including HIV infection of kidney cells, chronic inflammation, genetic predisposition, aging, comorbidities, and coinfections. In this review, we provide a summary of recent advancements in the understanding of the mechanisms and implications of HIV infection and kidney disease, with particular focus on the role of direct HIV infection of renal cells.

Prevalence and associated factors of impaired renal function and albuminuria among adult patients admitted to a hospital in Northeast Ethiopia

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasingly common in hospitalized patients and is associated with increased risk for in-hospital morbidity and mortality. However, data regarding the prevalence of CKD in the African hospitalized patient population are limited. We therefore examined the prevalence and associated factors of impaired renal function and albuminuria among adult patients admitted to the internal medicine wards of a hospital in Northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1 to April 30, 2020 at the inpatient settings of Dessie referral hospital. Data on demographics and medical history were obtained, and serum creatinine and albuminuria were analyzed. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. CKD was defined as impaired eGFR (<60 ml/min/1.73m²) and/or albuminuria. Univariate and multivariable analysis were conducted to determine factors associated with impaired eGFR and albuminuria.

Results

A total of 369 patients were included in this study. The prevalence of impaired eGFR was 19.0% (95%CI: 15.2%–23.2%) and albuminuria was 30.9% (95%CI: 26.3%–35.7%). Overall, 33.9% (95%CI: 29.2%–38.9%) of the patients had some degree of CKD, but only 21.6% (95%CI: 15.1%–29.4%) were aware of their renal disease. In multivariable analysis, older age, a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension and HIV were independently associated with both impaired eGFR and albuminuria while male gender was independently associated with only albuminuria.

Conclusions

CKD is common in adult patients admitted to the internal medicine wards, but only few patients are aware of their condition. These findings highlight the need for feasible approaches to timely identify kidney disease and raise awareness on the importance of detection and early intervention in the inpatient settings.

HIV-Associated CKDs in Children and Adolescents

INTRODUCTION

Limited information is available describing the current prevalence of proteinuria and HIV-associated CKDs (HIV-CKDs) in children and adolescents living with HIV and receiving antiretroviral therapy in the United States.

METHODS

To address this issue, we performed a retrospective study of children and adolescents living with HIV who received medical care at Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC, between January 2012 and July 2019. Demographic data, clinical parameters (mode of HIV transmission, viral loads, CD4 cell counts, serum creatinine, glomerular filtration rate [GFR], plasma lipid levels, proteinuria, blood pressure, renal biopsies), and medical treatments, all done as a standard of clinical care, were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The majority of the 192 patients enrolled were of African descent (88%) and acquired HIV through vertical transmission (97%). The prevalence of all HIV-CKDs was 6%. Of these patients, 39% had intermittent or persistent proteinuria, and 7% percent had proteinuria with a mild decline in GFR (60-80 ml/min per 1.73 m2), and 6% had a mild decline in GFR without proteinuria. Documented hypertension was present in 6% of the patients, mainly in association with HIV-CKD. Patients with persistent proteinuria (3%) and biopsy-proven HIV-CKD had a slow but constant progression of their renal diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of persistent proteinuria and HIV-CKD was lower than that reported in previous studies conducted in the United States. However, intermittent proteinuria, mild reductions in GFR, and progression of established HIV-CKD were common findings in this group of patients with predominantly vertically acquired HIV who were receiving antiretroviral therapy.

Validation of the D:A:D chronic kidney disease risk score in people living with HIV: the IeDEA West Africa Cohort Collaboration

OBJECTIVES

A risk score for long-term prediction of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in people living with HIV (PLHIV) has been developed using data from the D:A:D cohort. We assessed the performance of the D:A:D risk score in a cohort of PLHIV in West Africa.

METHODS

Data from PLHIV starting antiretroviral treatment in four clinics in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire and Togo participating in the IeDEA West Africa collaboration were analysed. CKD was defined as two consecutive estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) of ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73 m² . The D:A:D score (short version) was calculated using age, gender, nadir CD4 and baseline eGFR and was categorized into low, medium, and high-risk groups.

RESULTS

In 14 930 participants (70% female, median age = 38 years; median nadir CD4 count = 183 cells/µL) followed for a median duration of 5.7 years, 660 (4.4%) progressed to CKD, with an incidence [95% confidence interval (CI)] of 7.8 (7.2-8.4) per 1000 person-years (PY). CKD incidence rates were 2.4 (2.0-2.8), 8.1 (6.8-9.6) and, 30.9 (28.0-34.1) per 1000 PY in the low-, medium- and high-risk groups, respectively. In the high-risk group, 14.7% (95% CI: 13.3; 16.3) had progressed to CKD at 5 years. Discrimination was good [C-statistics = 0.81 (0.79-0.83)]. In all, 79.4% of people who progressed to CKD were classified in the medium- to high-risk group at baseline (sensitivity) and 66.5% of people classified in the low risk group at baseline did not progress to CKD (specificity).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings confirm the validity of the D:A:D score in identifying individuals at risk of developing CKD who could benefit from enhanced kidney monitoring in West African HIV clinics.

Predictors and Prognosis of HIV-Associated Nephropathy on Kidney Biopsy in South Africa

Introduction

South Africa has the highest prevalence of HIV in the world. The epidemiology of kidney disease among people with HIV infections is well-described in the United States. However, there are limited data coming from South Africa, particularly that involve kidney biopsies. The purpose of this study was to determine what, if any, patient factors are predictive of HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) on kidney biopsy in a South African kidney biopsy cohort.

Methods

This study prospectively collected data of all patients infected with HIV referred to the Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) renal unit for a kidney biopsy from 2002 to 2018.

Results

There were 419 patients included in the study. Mean age was 36.5 years (SD, 9.4); 219 (52.3%) were women; and all were black. Seventy-nine patients (18.9%) were on dialysis at the time of biopsy; the mean estimated glomerular filtration rate among the remainder was 41.4 ml/min per 1.73 m² (SD, 39.2). Only 163 patients (47.1%) were known to be taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) at the time of biopsy. There were 246 (58.7%) cases of HIVAN detected, and they were comparable on age, sex, kidney function, and kidney size to those with kidney disease of other causes but were less likely to be taking ART (P < 0.001). Biopsy confirmed HIVAN was associated with mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–2.91; P = 0.025), and the use of ART at biopsy was protective (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.32–0.84, P = 0.008). The proportion of HIVAN on biopsy decreased and the proportion taking ART increased from 2002 to 2018 (P for trend for both < 0.001).

Conclusion

In summary, HIVAN was the most common etiology of kidney disease in this biopsy cohort from South Africa; however, the proportion with biopsy-proven HIVAN declined over time, perhaps in the setting of greater ART availability.

Pharmacotherapeutic options for kidney disease in HIV positive patients

INTRODUCTION

Since the developmentof combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), HIV-associated mortality and the incidence of HIV-associated end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) has decreased. However, in the United States, an increase in non-HIV-associated kidney diseases within the HIV-positive population is expected.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, the authors highlight the risk factors for kidney disease within an HIV-positive population and provide the current recommendations for risk stratification and for the monitoring of its progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD), as well as, treatment. The article is based on literature searches using PubMed, Medline and SCOPUS.

EXPERT OPINION

The authors recommend clinicians (1) be aware of early cART initiation to prevent and treat HIV-associated kidney diseases, (2) be aware of cART side effects and discriminate those that may become more nephrotoxic than others and require dose-adjustment in the setting of eGFR ≤ 30ml/min/1.73m², (3) follow KDIGO guidelines regarding screening and monitoring for CKD with a multidisciplinary team of health professionals, (4) manage other co-infections and comorbidities, (5) consider changing cART if drug induced toxicity is established with apparent eGFR decline of ≥ 10ml/min/1.73m² or rising creatinine (≥0.5mg/dl) during drug-drug interactions, and (6) strongly consider kidney transplant in appropriately selected individuals with end stage kidney failure.

2019 update of the European AIDS Clinical Society Guidelines for treatment of people living with HIV version 10.0

BACKGROUND

The European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS) Guidelines cover key aspects of HIV management with major updates every two years.

GUIDELINE HIGHLIGHTS

The 2019 Guidelines were extended with a new section focusing on drug-drug interactions and other prescribing issues in people living with HIV (PLWH). The recommendations for treatment-naïve PLWH were updated with four preferred regimens favouring unboosted integrase inhibitors. A two-drug regimen with dolutegravir and lamivudine, and a three-drug regimen including doravirine were also added to the recommended initial regimens. Lower thresholds for hypertension were expanded to all PLWH and for cardiovascular disease prevention, the 10-year predicted risk threshold for consideration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) modification was lowered from 20% to 10%. Frailty and obesity were added as new topics. It was specified to use urine albumin to creatinine ratio to screen for glomerular disease and urine protein to creatinine ratio for tubular diseases, and thresholds were streamlined with the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) recommendations. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment recommendations were split into preferred and alternative treatment options. The algorithm for management of recently acquired HCV infection was updated and includes recommendations for early chronic infection management. Treatment of resistant tuberculosis (TB) was streamlined with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, and new tables on immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, on when to start ART in the presence of opportunistic infections and on TB drug dosing were included.

CONCLUSIONS

The EACS Guidelines underwent major revisions of all sections in 2019. They are available in four different formats including a new interactive web-based version and are translated into Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

Proliferation of HIV-infected renal epithelial cells following virus acquisition from infected macrophages

OBJECTIVES

HIV-1 can infect and persist in different organs and tissues, resulting in the generation of multiple viral compartments and reservoirs. Increasing evidence supports the kidney as such a reservoir. Previous work demonstrated that HIV-1 infected CD4 T-cells transfer virus to renal tubule epithelial (RTE) cells through cell-to-cell contact. In addition to CD4 T cells, macrophages represent the other major target of HIV-1. Renal macrophages induce and regulate inflammatory responses and are critical to homeostatic regulation of the kidney environment. Combined with their ability to harbour virus, macrophages may also play an important role in the spread of HIV-1 infection in the kidney.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Multiparametric histochemistry analysis was performed on kidney biopsies from individuals with HIV-1 associated nephropathy (HIVAN). Primary monocyte-derived macrophages were infected with a GFP-expressing replication competent HIV-1. HIV-1 transfer from macrophages to RTE cells was carried out in a coculture system and evaluated by fluorescence-microscopy and flow-cytometry. Live imaging was performed to assess the fate of HIV-1 infected RTE cells over time.

RESULTS

We show that macrophages are abundantly present in the renal inflammatory infiltrate of individuals with HIVAN. We observed contact-dependent HIV-1 transfer from infected macrophages to both primary and immortalized renal cells. Live imaging of HIV-1 infected RTE cells revealed four different fates: proliferation, hypertrophy, latency and cell death.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that macrophages may play a role in the dissemination of HIV-1 in the kidney and that proliferation of infected renal cells may contribute to HIV-1 persistence in this compartment.

Successful treatment of HIV-associated lupus-like glomerulonephritis with mycophenolic acid

HIV-associated lupus-like glomerulonephritis is an uncommon but well-described entity. Treatment has traditionally focused on control of HIV viremia with some using adjuvant steroids. Mycophenolic acid may prove to be a novel, nonsteroid, therapy in patients with active glomerulonephritis despite control of the underlying infection.

An Evaluation of Baseline Kidney Function in the REPRIEVE Trial of Pitavastatin in Human Immunodeficiency Virus

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease is a common comorbid condition among persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH). We characterized baseline kidney function in the REPRIEVE (Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV) trial cohort.

METHODS

REPRIEVE enrolled PWH with low to moderate cardiovascular risk based on traditional risk factors to evaluate the effect of statin therapy on cardiovascular events. We determined baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) with the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI), Modification of Diet in Renal Disease, and Cockcroft-Gault equations, and we evaluated baseline factors associated with eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 by logistic regression. We performed Bland-Altman plots and scatterplots to assess agreement between equations.

RESULTS

Among 7770 participants enrolled, the median age was 50 years, 31% were female (natal sex), 43% black or African American and 15% Asian, the median body mass index (calculated as calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) was 25.8, and the median CD4 cell count 620/µL. The median CKD-EPI eGFR was 97 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 38% had an eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m2. In the adjusted model, factors associated with eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 included white race, older age, higher body mass index, high-income region of enrollment, hypertension, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. The CKD-EPI and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equations demonstrated strong agreement, particularly at lower eGFR values. Overall, there was 56% concordance between the 3 equations (categories <60, 60 to <90, ≥90 mL/min), improving to 73% after accounting for individual body surface area.

CONCLUSIONS

REPRIEVE enrolled a diverse cohort including a substantial number of PWH with reduced kidney function. Factors associated with reduced eGFR included traditional risk factors and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate exposure. Three commonly used equations have only fair agreement, with potential implications for both clinical care and epidemiologic studies.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT02344290.

Organ transplantation in persons with HIV

: With current antiretroviral therapy, the lifespan of newly diagnosed persons with HIV (PWH) approaches that of uninfected persons. However, metabolic abnormalities related to both the disease and the virus itself, along with comorbidities of aging, have resulted in end-organ disease and organ failure as a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Solid organ transplantation is a life-saving therapy for PWH who have organ failure, and the approval of the HIV Organ Policy Equity Act has opened and expanded opportunities for PWH to donate and receive organs. The current environment of organ transplantation for PWH will be reviewed and future directions of research and treatment will be discussed.

Medium-grade proteinuria is a risk factor for incident markers of chronic kidney disease

OBJECTIVE

Medium-grade proteinuria (100-500 mg/g creatinine) is common among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) but is often undetected or ignored. This prospective, observational cohort study examined medium-grade proteinuria as a risk factor for markers of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

Quantitative urine samples were collected from 241 PLWHA without known renal disease at baseline between January 2009 and February 2011 and at follow-up 240 weeks later. Multivariate analysis was performed to assess medium-grade proteinuria as a risk factor for incident markers of CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m² , albuminuria, phosphaturia).

RESULTS

Incident markers of CKD were identified in 33 patients (14%), of whom 24 (74%) had medium-grade proteinuria at baseline. Of these, 22 even had proteinuria of < 200 mg/g creatinine. Multivariate analysis showed an adjusted relative risk (aRR) of 2.4 for patients with baseline medium-grade proteinuria to develop signs of CKD. Age was identified as an additional independent predictor. By testing for interaction, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-independent proteinuria was strongly associated with incident CKD markers (aRR = 12.1).

CONCLUSION

Medium-grade proteinuria of 100-500 mg/g creatinine is both frequent in PLWHA and a significant risk factor for developing markers of CKD, especially in the absence of TDF. Relevant risk seems to be associated with proteinuria levels as low as 100-200 mg/g creatinine. Current guidelines recommend specific action for proteinuria exceeding 135-200 mg/g but still will miss a relevant number of PLWHA potentially at risk for CKD. An even lower cut-off to trigger nephrological work-up and potentially renoprotective interventions appears to be indicated.

HIV protease inhibitor ritonavir induces renal fibrosis and dysfunction: role of platelet-derived TGF-β1 and intervention via antioxidant pathways

OBJECTIVE

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) with tubular injury and fibrosis occurs in HIV infection treated with certain protease inhibitor-based antiretroviral therapies. The pathophysiology is unclear.

DESIGN

We hypothesized that fibrosis, mediated by platelet-derived transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, underlies protease inhibitor-associated CKD. We induced this in mice exposed to the protease inhibitor ritonavir (RTV), and intervened with low-dose inhaled carbon monoxide (CO), activating erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2)-associated antioxidant pathways.

METHODS

Wild-type C57BL/6 mice and mice deficient in platelet TGF-β1, were given RTV (10 mg/kg) or vehicle daily for 8 weeks. Select groups were exposed to CO (250 ppm) for 4 h after RTV or vehicle injection. Renal disorder, fibrosis, and TGF-β1-based and Nrf2-based signaling were examined by histology, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Renal damage and dysfunction were assessed by KIM-1 and cystatin C ELISAs. Clinical correlations were sought among HIV-infected individuals.

RESULTS

RTV-induced glomerular and tubular injury, elevating urinary KIM-1 (P = 0.004). It enhanced TGF-β1-related signaling, accompanied by kidney fibrosis, macrophage polarization to an inflammatory phenotype, and renal dysfunction with cystatin C elevation (P = 0.008). Mice lacking TGF-β1 in platelets were partially protected from these abnormalities. CO inhibited RTV-induced fibrosis and macrophage polarization in association with upregulation of Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Clinically, HIV infection correlated with elevated cystatin C levels in untreated women (n = 17) vs. age-matched controls (n = 19; P = 0.014). RTV-treated HIV+ women had further increases in cystatin C (n = 20; P = 0.05), with parallel elevation of HO-1.

CONCLUSION

Platelet TGF-β1 contributes to RTV-induced kidney fibrosis and dysfunction, which may be amenable to antioxidant interventions.