Coronary artery disease in HIV infected patients

HIV-Associated Hypertension: Risks, Mechanisms, and Knowledge Gaps

HIV type 1 (HIV-1) is the causative agent of AIDS. Since the start of the epidemic, HIV/AIDS has been responsible for ≈40 million deaths. Additionally, an estimated 39 million people are currently infected with the virus. HIV-1 primarily infects immune cells, such as CD4+ (cluster of differentiation 4+) T lymphocytes (T cells), and as a consequence, the number of CD4+ T cells progressively declines in people living with HIV. Within a span of ≈10 years, HIV-1 infection leads to the systemic failure of the immune system and progression to AIDS. Fortunately, potent antiviral therapy effectively controls HIV-1 infection and prevents AIDS-related deaths. The efficacy of the current antiviral therapy regimens has transformed the outcome of HIV/AIDS from a death sentence to a chronic disease with a prolonged lifespan of people living with HIV. However, antiviral therapy is not curative, is challenged by virus resistance, can be toxic, and, most importantly, requires lifelong adherence. Furthermore, the improved lifespan has resulted in an increased incidence of non-AIDS-related morbidities in people living with HIV including cardiovascular diseases, renal disease, liver disease, bone disease, cancer, and neurological conditions. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge of the cardiovascular comorbidities associated with HIV-1 infection, with a particular focus on hypertension. We also discuss the potential mechanisms known to drive HIV-1-associated hypertension and the knowledge gaps in our understanding of this comorbid condition. Finally, we suggest several directions of future research to better understand the factors, pathways, and mechanisms underlying HIV-1-associated hypertension in the post-antiviral therapy era.

Particular Aspects Related to CD4+ Level in a Group of HIV-Infected Patients and Associated Acute Coronary Syndrome

People living with HIV infection are at high risk for cardiovascular events due to inflammation and atherosclerosis. Also, some antiretroviral therapies may contribute to the risk of cardiovascular complications. Immune status is highly dependent on the level of lymphocyte T helper CD4+. There are data suggesting that immune status and CD4+ cell count may be involved in the development of cardiovascular complications in these patients. Our study is longitudinal and retrospective and included a total number of 50 patients with HIV infection associated with acute coronary syndrome, divided into two subgroups based on the nadir of CD4+ cells. This study analyzes the relationship between the immune status of HIV patients, assessed by the nadir of the CD4+ T-cell count, and the outcome of these patients. Also, secondary endpoints were the assessment of the magnitude of coronary lesions and of thrombotic and bleeding risk assessed by specific scores. Clinical and biological parameters and also the extension and complexity of coronary lesions were assessed. Although patients with poor immune status had more complex coronary lesions and increased operative risk and bleeding risk at one year, this was not associated with significant differences in major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events at the 30-day and 1-year outcomes.

Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Angiographical Features and Short-Term Prognosis of Acute Coronary Syndrome in People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Results of a Retrospective Observational Multicentric Romanian Study

People living with human immunodeficiency virus have increased cardiovascular risk due to a higher prevalence of traditional and particular risk factors such as chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, coagulation abnormalities and antiretroviral therapy. In developed countries, coronary artery disease has become the most frequent cardiovascular disease and an important cause of mortality in these patients. The symptomatology of an acute coronary syndrome can be atypical, and the prevalence of each type of acute coronary syndrome is reported differently. Regarding coronary artery disease severity in people living with HIV, the literature data indicates that the presence of single-vessel disease is akin to that of HIV-negative patients, and their short-term prognosis is unclear. This study aims to assess the clinical characteristics, biological parameters, angiographical features and short-term prognosis of acute coronary syndrome in a cohort of Romanian people living with human immunodeficiency virus.

Assessment of Clinical Features in HIV-Infected Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in China

Objectives

We aimed to compare coronary risk factors, burden of coronary artery disease (CAD), and 1-year prognosis of people living with HIV (PLWH) and HIV-negative controls who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndromes (ACSs).

Background

Cardiovascular disease is drawing more and more attention in PLWH since effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been available. Clinical characteristics and outcomes of PLWH undergoing PCI for ACS in China remain unknown.

Methods

We compared demographic characteristics, angiographic features, and 1-year outcomes of 48 PLWH versus 48 HIV-negative controls matched for age (±2 years), sex, diabetes mellitus, and year of PCI (±2 years) in Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2008 to November 2020.

Results

In PLWH (mean age: 53.6 ± 10.6 years, 95.8% male, and 79.2% on ART), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was lower than in HIV-negative controls; however, the statin use was more common, the incidence of hypertension was lower, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and the body mass index were significantly lower than in controls. Two groups had a similar extent of coronary atherosclerosis as measured by the presence of multivessel diseases and the median Gensini score; however, lesions of PLWH were longer and were more likely to locate at the proximal segment of the coronary artery. In addition, the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events at 1 year was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

PLWH undergoing PCI displayed similar CAD burden and 1-year prognosis compared with HIV-negative patients. Early detection of cardiovascular risk factors and appropriate secondary prevention of CAD in PLWH might alleviate the risk of severe adverse cardiovascular events.

Predicting the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease among adults living with HIV/AIDS in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A hospital-based study

Background

Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) is an emerging problem among People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The current study aimed at determining the risk of ASCVD among PLWHA using the Pooled Cohort Equation (PCE) and the Framingham Risk score (FRS).

Methods

A hospital-based study was carried out from January 2019 to February 2020 in PLWHA. The prevalence of ASCVD risk was determined in individuals aged between 20 to 79 and 40 to 79 years using the FRS and PCE as appropriate. Chi-square, univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were employed for analysis.

Results

The prevalence of high-risk ASCVD for subjects aged 20 and above using both tools was 11.5 %. For those aged 40 to 79 years, PCE yielded an increased risk (28%) than FRS (17.7%). Using both tools; advanced age, male gender, smoking, and increased systolic blood pressure were associated with an increased risk of ASCVD. Younger age (adjusted odds ratio, AOR) 0.20, 95%CI: 0.004, 0.091; P< 0.001), lower systolic blood pressure (AOR 0.221, 95%CI: 0.074, 0.605 P< 0.004), and lower total cholesterol (AOR 0.270, 95%CI: 0.073, 0.997; p<0.049) were found to be independent predictors of reduced risk of ASCVD. Likewise, younger age (40 to 64 years), female gender, and lower systolic blood pressure were significantly associated with lower risk of ASCVD among patients aged 40 to 79 years using both PCE and FRS.

Conclusions

A considerable number of PLWHA have been identified to be at risk for ASCVD. ASCVD risk was significantly associated with advanced age, male gender, higher blood pressure, and smoking using both FRS and PCE. These factors should therefore be taken into account for designing management strategies.

Severe Coronary Artery Disease in a Person Living with HIV

The pathophysiology of accelerated atherosclerosis in people living with Human Immunofediciency virus (HIV) is complex. Coronary artery disease (CAD) has become an important cause of mortality in these patients. They often have atypical symptoms, leading to frequently missed diagnoses. We report a case of a 51-year-old male undergoing antiretroviral therapy who was admitted for acute coronary syndrome. He had severe coronary artery disease that involved difficult management.

Influence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection on the Management and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction With Cardiogenic Shock

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the outcomes of acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) in patients with HIV infection and AIDS.

SETTING

Twenty percent sample of all US hospitals.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of AMI-CS during 2000-2017 from the National Inpatient Sample was evaluated for concomitant HIV and AIDS. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality and use of cardiac procedures. A subgroup analysis was performed for those with and without AIDS within the HIV cohort.

RESULTS

A total 557,974 AMI-CS admissions were included, with HIV and AIDS in 1321 (0.2%) and 985 (0.2%), respectively. The HIV cohort was younger (54.1 vs. 69.0 years), more often men, of non-White race, uninsured, from a lower socioeconomic status, and with higher comorbidity (all P < 0.001). The HIV cohort had comparable multiorgan failure (37.8% vs. 39.0%) and cardiac arrest (28.7% vs. 27.4%) (P > 0.05). The cohorts with and without HIV had comparable rates of coronary angiography (70.2% vs. 69.0%; P = 0.37) but less frequent early coronary angiography (hospital day zero) (39.1% vs. 42.5%; P < 0.001). The cohort with HIV had higher unadjusted but comparable adjusted in-hospital mortality compared with those without [26.9% vs. 37.4%; adjusted odds ratio 1.04 (95% confidence interval: 0.90 to 1.21); P = 0.61]. In the HIV cohort, AIDS was associated with higher in-hospital mortality [28.8% vs. 21.1%; adjusted odds ratio 4.12 (95% confidence interval: 1.89 to 9.00); P < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

The cohort with HIV had comparable rates of cardiac procedures and in-hospital mortality; however, those with AIDS had higher in-hospital mortality.

Viral Infection and Cardiovascular Disease: Implications for the Molecular Basis of COVID-19 Pathogenesis

The current pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). While this respiratory virus only causes mild symptoms in younger healthy individuals, elderly people and those with cardiovascular diseases such as systemic hypertension are susceptible to developing severe conditions that can be fatal. SARS-CoV-2 infection is also associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial injury, acute coronary syndrome, and thromboembolism. Understanding the mechanisms of the effects of this virus on the cardiovascular system should thus help develop therapeutic strategies to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Since this virus causes severe and fatal conditions in older individuals with cardiovascular comorbidities, effective therapies targeting specific populations will likely contribute to ending this pandemic. In this review article, the effects of various viruses—including other coronaviruses, influenza, dengue, and human immunodeficiency virus—on the cardiovascular system are described to help provide molecular mechanisms of pathologies associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19. The goal is to provide mechanistic information from the biology of other viral infections in relation to cardiovascular pathologies for the purpose of developing improved vaccines and therapeutic agents effective in preventing and/or treating the acute and long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19.

<p>Chronic Total Occlusion of the Left Main Coronary Artery in an HIV-Infected Patient</p>

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is amongst the leading causes of death in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons. Severe left main disease (LMD) occurs in approximately five percent of HIV-infected patients, with chronic total occlusion (CTO) of this vessel being an even rarer phenomenon. We describe a non-adherent HIV-infected patient with a left main coronary artery (LMCA) CTO that presented with heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and ventricular tachycardia (VT).

Factors Associated With Excess Myocardial Infarction Risk in HIV-Infected Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the pooled relative risk (RR) of incident acute myocardial infarction (AMI) among HIV-infected adults compared with HIV-uninfected controls and explore the contribution of traditional and HIV-related risk factors.

BACKGROUND

Understanding AMI risk and associated risk factors in HIV-infected populations has the potential to inform clinical management and prevention strategies.

METHODS

We systematically identified cohort studies of HIV-infected or HIV-infected and matched uninfected adults reporting AMI incidence rates published up to January 1, 2017. Random-effects meta-analysis models were used to estimate the aggregate RR of AMI by HIV status. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were used to explore factors affecting risk.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies (N = 1,619,690, median age 38.5 years, 78.9% male, mean follow-up of 6.5 years) were included. In pooled analyses of HIV-infected and matched uninfected cohorts (n = 5), HIV-infected individuals had higher AMI incidence rates (absolute risk difference = 2.2 cases per 1000 persons per year) and twice the risk of AMI [RR = 1.96 (1.5-2.6)] compared with matched HIV-uninfected controls. In a multivariate meta-regression, each additional percentage point in the proportion of male participants [odds ratio (OR) = 1.20 (1.14-1.27)] and each additional percentage point in the prevalence of hypertension [OR = 1.19 (1.12-1.27)], dyslipidemia [OR = 1.09 (1.07-1.11)], and smoking [OR = 1.09 (1.05-1.13)] were independently associated with increased AMI risk in HIV-infected adults.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Chronic HIV infection is associated with a 2-fold higher AMI risk. Traditional risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and smoking are significant contributors to AMI risk among HIV-infected adults and should be aggressively targeted in routine HIV care.

HIV infection and coronary heart disease: mechanisms and management

Antiretroviral therapy has largely transformed HIV infection into a chronic disease condition. As such, physicians and other providers caring for individuals living with HIV infection need to be aware of the potential cardiovascular complications of HIV infection and the nuances of how HIV infection increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including acute myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, heart failure and sudden cardiac death, as well as how to select available therapies to reduce this risk. In this Review, we discuss the epidemiology and clinical features of cardiovascular disease, with a focus on coronary heart disease, in the setting of HIV infection, which includes a substantially increased risk of myocardial infarction even when the HIV infection is well controlled. We also discuss the mechanisms underlying HIV-associated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, such as the high rates of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in patients with HIV infection and HIV-related factors, including the use of antiretroviral therapy and chronic inflammation in the setting of effectively treated HIV infection. Finally, we highlight available therapeutic strategies, as well as approaches under investigation, to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower inflammation in patients with HIV infection.

Cardiovascular disease burden among human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection affects 36.7 million people worldwide, it accounted for 1.1 million deaths in 2015. The advent of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) has been associated with a decrease in HIV-related morbidity and mortality. However, there are increasing concerns about long-lasting effects of chronic inflammation and immune activation, leading to premature aging and HIV-related mortality. Cardiovascular diseases, especially coronary artery disease, are among the leading causes of death in HIV-infected patients, accounting for up to 15% of total deaths in high income countries. Furthermore, as cART availability expands to low-income countries, the burden of cardiovascular related mortality is likely to rise. Hence, over the next decade HIV-associated cardiovascular disease burden is expected to increase globally. In this review, we summarize our understanding of the pathogenesis and risk factors associated with HIV infection and cardiovascular disease, in particular coronary artery disease.

Atypical presentation of critical left main disease in an HIV-infected patient

Coronary artery disease is currently one of the leading causes of mortality in patients with HIV. Severe left main disease (LMD) occurs in ~6% of the HIV-infected patients. We describe a case report of an atypical presentation of silent critical LMD in an HIV-infected patient who underwent a low-risk exercise stress test. The cardiovascular disease team should be vigilant for this latent phenomenon, specifically within this subpopulation despite the high Duke treadmill score.

Short Communication: Accumulation of Neutral Lipids in Liver and Aorta of Nef-Transgenic Mice

HIV-infected individuals are at high risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease, in part, due to HIV-induced impairment of cholesterol metabolism. In vitro studies demonstrated that HIV-1 protein Nef inhibits activity of ABCA1, the main cellular cholesterol transporter, leading to cholesterol accumulation in macrophages and conversion of these cells into foam cells, characteristic for atherosclerosis. However, the mechanisms of Nef-mediated effects on cholesterol metabolism in vivo are not well characterized. In this study, we generated Nef-transgenic mice and evaluated the accumulation of neutral lipids in liver and aorta of these animals. Nef expression was low in all transgenic mice, with some mice carrying the Nef transgene, but not expressing the Nef RNA. Using Oil Red O staining, we demonstrated increased levels of neutral lipids in liver and aorta of mice expressing Nef relative to transgenic animals, with no detectable Nef expression or control wild-type mice. These results provide direct evidence that Nef promotes cholesterol deposition in tissues.

Coadministration of ticagrelor and ritonavir: Toward prospective dose adjustment to maintain an optimal platelet inhibition using the PBPK approach

Ticagrelor is a potent antiplatelet drug metabolized by cytochrome (CYP)3A. It is contraindicated in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) because of the expected CYP3A inhibition by most protease inhibitors, such as ritonavir and an increased bleeding risk. In this study, a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was created for ticagrelor and its active metabolite (AM). Based on the simulated interaction between ticagrelor 180 mg and ritonavir 100 mg, a lower dose of ticagrelor was calculated to obtain, when coadministered with ritonavir, the same pharmacokinetic (PK) and platelet inhibition as ticagrelor administered alone. A clinical study was thereafter conducted in healthy volunteers. Observed PK profiles of ticagrelor and its AM were successfully predicted with the model. Platelet inhibition was nearly complete in both sessions despite administration of a fourfold lower dose of ticagrelor in the second session. This PBPK model could be prospectively used to broaden the usage of ticagrelor in patients with ritonavir-treated HIV regardless of the CYP3A inhibition.

HIV infection induces structural and functional changes in high density lipoproteins

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Coronary artery disease is a growing clinical problem in HIV-infected subjects. The increased risk of coronary events in this population has been linked to low levels of HDL, but the effects of HIV infection and anti-retroviral treatment (ART) on HDL structure and function remain unknown. Here, we aimed to determine the composition and function of HDL particles isolated from ART-naive and ART-positive HIV-infected patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Proteomic profiling revealed decreased levels of paraoxonase (PON) 1 and PON 3 in HDL from HIV patients relative to HDL from uninfected controls (p < 0.0001), and PON activity of HDL from control group (0.13 ± 0.01 U/μl) was significantly higher than PON activity of HDL from HIV-infected untreated subjects (0.12 ± 0.01 U/μl, p = 0.0035), subjects treated with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based therapy (0.11 ± 0.01 U/μl, p < 0.0001), subjects treated with protease inhibitor (PI)-based therapy with detectable viral load (0.11 ± 0.01 U/μl, p < 0.0001), and PI-treated patients with undetectable viral load (0.12 ± 0.01 U/μl, p = 0.0164). Lipidomic profiling uncovered a negative correlation between CD4 T cell counts and particle sphingomyelin, lyso-phosphatidylcholine and ether-linked phosphatidylserine content in the ART-naive (R(2) = 0.2611, p < 0.05; R(2) = 0.2722, p < 0.05; and R(2) = 0.3977, p < 0.05, respectively) but not treated HIV-infected subjects. Functional analysis demonstrated a negative correlation between cholesterol efflux capacity of HDL and viral load in the ART-naive HIV-infected group (R(2) = 0.26, p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results indicate that HIV infection associates with a number of both protein and lipid compositional changes in HDL particles. Moreover, HIV infection affects cholesterol efflux function of HDL, thus contributing to an increased risk of atherosclerosis in this patient population.

Prognostic indicators for recurrent thrombotic events in HIV-infected patients with acute coronary syndromes: use of registry data from 12 sites in Europe, South Africa and the United States

AIMS

Limited data are available on prognostic indicators for HIV patients presenting with ACS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data on consecutive patients with HIV infection receiving standard highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) presenting with ACS between January 2001 and September 2012 were collected. Cardiac death and myocardial infarction (MI) were the primary end-points. 10,050 patients with ACS were screened, and among them a total of 201 patients (179 [89%] males and a median age of 53 [47-62] years) were included, 48% of them admitted for ST-elevation myocardial infarction and 14% having left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) at discharge. CD4+ counts less than 200 cells/mm(3) were reported in 18 patients (9%), and 136 patients (67%) were treated with nucleoside-reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI). After a median of 24 months (10-41), 30 patients (15%) died, 12 (6%) for cardiac reasons, 20 (10%) suffered a MI, 29 (15%) a subsequent revascularization, and 7 (3%) a stent thrombosis. Other than LVSD (hazard ratio=6.4 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.6-26: p=0.009]), the only other independent predictor of cardiac death was not being treated with NRTI (hazard ratio=9.9 [95% CI: 2.1-46: p=0.03); a CD4 cell count <200 cells/mm(3) was the only predictor of MI (hazard ratio=5.9 [95% CI: 1.4-25: p=0.016]).

CONCLUSIONS

HIV patients presenting with ACS are at significantly increased risk for cardiac death if not treated with NRTI, and at significantly increased risk of MI if their CD4 cell count is <200 cells/mm(3), suggesting that the stage of HIV disease (and lack of NRTI treatment) may contribute to cardiovascular instability.

HIV and coronary heart disease: time for a better understanding

Cardiovascular disease, and particularly coronary heart disease, is an emerging area of concern in the HIV population. Since the advent of efficient antiretroviral therapies and the consequent longer patient life span, an increased risk for myocardial infarction has been observed in HIV-infected patients compared with the general population in Western countries. The pathophysiology of this accelerated atherosclerotic process is complex and multifactorial. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors-overrepresented in the HIV population-associated with uncontrolled viral replication and exposure to antiretroviral drugs (per se or through lipid and glucose disturbances) could promote acute ischemic events. Thus, despite successful antiviral therapy, numerous studies suggest a role of chronic inflammation, together with immune activation, that could lead to vascular dysfunction and atherothrombosis. It is time for physicians to prevent coronary heart disease in this high-risk population through the use of tools employed in the general population. Moreover, the lower median age at which acute coronary syndromes occur in HIV-infected patients should shift prevention to include patients <45 years of age. Available cardiovascular risk scores in the general population usually fail to screen young patients at risk for myocardial infarction. Moreover, the novel vascular risk factors identified in HIV-related atherosclerosis, such as chronic inflammation, immune activation, and some antiretroviral agents, are not taken into account in the available risk scores, leading to underestimation of cardiovascular risk in the HIV population. Cardiovascular prevention in HIV-infected patients is a challenge for both cardiologists and physicians involved in HIV care. We require new tools to assess this higher risk and studies to determine whether intensive primary prevention is warranted.

Metabolic disorders and cardiovascular consequences of HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy

Metabolic disturbances associated with HIV disease have become an important factor in patient management and have important implications for long-term outcomes, both in regards to mortality and healthcare burden. Recent research has implicated both HIV infection itself and specific antiretroviral therapies in the development of these disorders. This review examines recent findings from research into insulin and glucose dysregulation, serum lipid abnormalities, adipose tissue and derangements in bone metabolism. This review then describes the cardiovascular consequences and management of these metabolic disorders, and summarizes current thinking on the pathogenesis and effects of antiretroviral therapy. Finally, the review raises some questions regarding ongoing challenges and unmet needs in this field of research.

Acute coronary syndromes in human immunodeficiency virus patients: a meta-analysis investigating adverse event rates and the role of antiretroviral therapy

AIMS

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) dramatically reduces human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated morbidity and mortality, but adverse effects of HAART are becoming an increasing challenge, especially in the setting of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). We thus performed a comprehensive review of studies focusing on ACS in HIV patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

MEDLINE/PubMed was systematically screened for studies reporting on ACS in HIV patients. Baseline, treatment, and outcome data were appraised and pooled with random-effect methods computing summary estimates [95% confidence intervals (CIs)]. A total of 11 studies including 2442 patients were identified, with a notably low prevalence of diabetes [10.86 (4.11, 17.60); 95% CI]. Rates of in-hospital death were 8.00% (2.8, 12.5; 95% CI), ascribable to cardiovascular events for 7.90% (2.43, 13.37; 95% CI), with 2.31% (0.60, 4.01; 95% CI) developing cardiogenic shock. At a median follow-up of 25.50 months (11.25, 42; 95% CI), no deaths were recorded, with an incidence of 9.42% of acute myocardial infarction (2.68, 16.17; 95% CI) and of 20.18% (9.84, 30.51; 95% CI) of percutaneous coronary revascularization. Moreover, pooled analysis of the studies reporting incidence of acute myocardial infarction in patients exposed to protease inhibitors showed an overall significant risk of 2.68 (odds ratio 1.89, 3.89; 95% CI).

CONCLUSION

Human immunodeficiency virus patients admitted for ACS face a substantial short-term risk of death and a significant long-term risk of coronary revascularization and myocardial infarction, especially if receiving protease inhibitors.

Clinical presentation of acute coronary syndrome in HIV infected adults: a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected cohort

OBJECTIVES

To compare clinical presentation and short-term prognosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in HIV-infected and uninfected adults.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected cohort.

METHODS

HIV-infected patients with myocardial infarction or unstable angina were identified by clinical history and specific characteristics of HIV infection were consecutively registered. Surviving patients were followed for at least one month after discharge. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease, clinical symptoms at admission, type of ACS, delivery of care, and factors associated with prognosis were compared between HIV-infected and uninfected adults.

RESULTS

Among 627 patients included, 44 (7%) were HIV-infected patients. HIV-infected patients were younger, more frequently men, and had higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors than uninfected patients. HIV-infected patients persisted frequently with less pain at Emergency Department (ED) (34% vs 82%, P<0.001) and complained of dyspnea (2% vs 15%, P<0.05) persisted in respect to HIV-uninfected patients. ST-elevation myocardial infarction was the most frequent ACS in HIV-infected patients (59% vs 24%) whereas non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (23% vs 38%) and unstable angina (18% vs 38%) were the predominant ones in uninfected patients (P<0.001). Catheterism was performed more commonly in HIV-infected patients (75% vs 62%, P<0.01) and similarly admitted in the coronary care unit (38% vs 41%, P=0.81). The evolution was similar in both groups. When HIV-infected patients were matched by age and sex with a subgroup of 88 HIV-uninfected patients, most of the differences disappeared.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-infected adults presenting with ACS are younger and have fewer symptoms than uninfected. Despite having a more established disease, short-term prognosis is similar.

HIV Infection, Antiretroviral Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk

In the last 15 years, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has determined a dramatic reduction of both morbidity and mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected subjects, transforming this infection in a chronic and manageable disease. Patients surviving with HIV in the developed world, in larger number men, are becoming aged. As it would be expected for a population of comparable age, many HIV-infected individuals report a family history of cardiovascular disease, a small proportion have already experienced a cardiovascular event and an increasing proportion has diabetes mellitus. Smoking rate is very high while an increasing proportion of HIV-infected individuals have dyslipidaemia. Studies suggest that these traditional risk factors could play an important role in the development of cardiovascular disease in these patients as they do in the general population. Thus, whilst the predicted 10-year cardiovascular disease risk remains relatively low at present, it will likely increase in relation to the progressive aging of this patient population. Thus, the long-term follow-up of HIV infected patients has to include co-morbidity management such as cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment. Two intriguing aspects related to the cardiovascular risk in patients with HIV infection are the matter of current investigation: 1) while these subjects share many cardiovascular risk factors with the general population, HIV infection itself increases cardiovascular risk; 2) some HAART regimens too influence atherosclerotic profile, partly due to lipid changes. Although the mechanisms involved in the development of cardiovascular complications in HIV-infected patients remain to be fully elucidated, treatment guidelines recommending interventions to prevent cardiovascular disease in these individuals are already available; however, their application is still limited.

Acute coronary syndrome in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients: characteristics and 1 year prognosis

AIMS

Natural history and prognosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in HIV-infected patients remain to be determined. We sought to compare coronary risk factors, angiographic features, acute results of percutaneous coronary intervention, in-hospital outcomes, and pre-specified 1 year prognosis of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients with ACS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients with a first episode of ACS were matched for age (±5 years), sex, and type of ACS. The primary endpoint was the rate of major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE), comprising cardiac death, recurrent ACS, recurrent coronary revascularization, and stroke. Overall, 103 HIV-infected and 195 HIV-uninfected patients were enrolled (mean age 49.0 ± 9.4 years, 94% men). Coronary risk factors were well balanced, but HIV-infected patients more frequently used illicit drugs (23 vs. 6%, P = 0.001) and had higher triglyceride concentrations (246 ± 189 vs. 170 ± 139 mg/dL, P = 0.002) compared with HIV-uninfected patients. Angiographic features of coronary artery disease were similar (multivessel disease 41 vs. 39%, P = 0.96; ACC/AHA type culprit lesion ≥B2, both 77%, P = 0.83). At 1 year, the rate of occurrence of first MACCE did not differ between groups [hazard ratio (HR) 1.4, 95% CI 0.6-3.0]. Recurrent ACS was more frequent in HIV-infected patients (HR 6.5, 95% CI 1.7-23.9) with no difference in the rate of clinical restenosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the acute management of ACS in HIV-infected patients can routinely be the same as that of HIV-uninfected patients, but that specific secondary prevention measures are needed to alleviate the increased risk of recurrent ACS.

Risk of myocardial infarction in parents of HIV-infected Individuals: a population-based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have indicated an increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) in HIV infected individuals especially after start of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). It is however controversial whether the increased risk of atherosclerotic disease is exclusively associated with the HIV disease and HAART or whether life-style related or genetic factors also increase the risk in this population. To establish whether the increased risk of myocardial infarction in HIV patients partly reflects an increased risk of MI in their families, we estimated the relative risk of MI in parents of HIV-infected individuals.

METHODS

From the Danish HIV Cohort Study and the Danish Civil Registration System we identified the parents of all HIV-infected patients born in Denmark after 1952 in whom a Danish born mother was identifiable. For each HIV patient, 4 matched population controls and their parents were identified. Cumulative incidence functions were constructed to illustrate time to first MI of the parents as registered in the Danish National Hospital Registry. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were estimated by Cox's regression analyses. Due to the confidential type of the analysed data the study was approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency.

RESULTS

2,269 mothers and 2,022 fathers of HIV patients as well as 9,076 mothers and 8,460 fathers of control subjects were identified. We observed an increased risk of MI in mothers of HIV patients (adjusted IRR, 1.31; 95% CI: 1.08-1.60). The strongest association was seen in case the offspring was infected heterosexually (adjusted IRR, 1.59; 95% CI: 1.07-2.35) or by IV drug abuse (IVD) (adjusted IRR, 1.63; 95% CI: 1.02-2.60). In fathers of HIV patients the risk of MI was only increased if the offspring was infected by IVD (adjusted IRR, 1.42; 95% CI: 1.01-2.00).

CONCLUSION

Mothers of HIV-infected patients have an increased risk of MI. We presume that this stems from family related life style risk factors, some of which may also influence the risk of MI in HIV-infected patients.

Cardiac emergencies in patients with HIV

The aspects of cardiovascular disease in the patient infected with HIV that are of particular relevance to the emergency physician, including coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndromes, pericardial disease, and dilated cardiomyopathy are discussed in this review.

Implications for lipids during replication of enveloped viruses

Enveloped viruses, which include many medically important viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus, influenza virus and hepatitis C virus, are intracellular parasites that acquire lipid envelopes from their host cells. Success of replication is intimately linked to their ability to hijack host cell mechanisms, particularly those related to membrane dynamics and lipid metabolism. Despite recent progress, our knowledge of lipid mediated virus-host interactions remains highly incomplete. In addition, diverse experimental systems are used to study different stages of virus replication thus complicating comparisons. This review aims to present a unifying view of the widely diverse strategies used by enveloped viruses at distinct stages of their replication cycles.

Diagnosis of silent myocardial ischemia during the staging of HIV-associated lymphoma with FDG PET/CT

Fasting 18F fluoro-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography examinations are routinely performed for the staging of HIV-associated lymphomas. In addition to possible comorbidity factors, the chronic inflammation that occurs in HIV-infected patients together with the metabolic side effects of antiretroviral therapy increases the risk for coronary artery disease. Moreover, HIV-infected patients are likely to develop polyneuropathies due to the viral infection or to the side effects of long-term protease or nucleoside reverse transcription inhibitor treatments.We report a case that illustrates the need to suspect the diagnosis of silent myocardial ischemia among HIV-positive patients with myocardial F-18 fluoro-deoxy-glucose uptake involving a coronary artery territory.

Vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular complications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Antiretroviral (ARV) therapy has altered the course of HIV disease and dramatically increased the lifespan of HIV-infected individuals. Accumulating evidence, however, suggests that prolonged ARV use contributes to metabolic and cardiovascular changes. Understanding the toxicities of ARV treatment and sequelae of long-term infection is critical. This review will examine recent evidence related to vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular complications in HIV infection.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies investigating circulating markers of inflammation, surrogate markers of subclinical atherosclerotic disease, and novel imaging modalities suggest the presence of endothelial dysfunction in HIV-infected patients. In addition, data from several recently updated cohort studies confirm an association between ARV therapy and cardiovascular events.

SUMMARY

New data suggest that cardiovascular disease is increased among HIV-infected patients receiving highly active ARV therapy. The mechanisms of increased cardiovascular disease may relate to direct effects of the HIV virus and inflammation on the vasculature or to toxicities from specific ARV therapies, which may increase traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Understanding and modifying these risks and preventing cardiovascular events are critical to the long-term management of the HIV-infected patient.

Cardiovascular complications and atherosclerotic manifestations in the HIV-infected population: type, incidence and associated risk factors

Before the introduction of successful antiretroviral therapy (ART), cardiovascular complications in HIV-infected patients were largely those resulting from immunosuppression (e.g. myocarditis, pericarditis, tamponade). With the advent of ART, there has been a spectacular decrease in morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected individuals. However, alongside metabolic complications caused by ART such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and lipodystrophy syndrome have been observed, which potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, in particular coronary artery disease. Whether HIV infection and ART are independent and individual coronary risk factors is still controversial. More and more data are available demonstrating that increasing the duration of exposure to ART, and in particular protease inhibitors, increases the risk of myocardial infarction. At the same time, chronic infection, inflammation and the disruption of immune balance as a result of HIV infection itself may have the potential to alter vascular structure and function. In this article, we will review cardiovascular complications in HIV-infected patients before and after the advent of ART, focusing on coronary artery disease, its diagnosis, prognosis and therapy.

Subclinical coronary atherosclerosis, HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy: Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of HIV infection and cumulative exposure to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) with the presence and extent of coronary artery calcification (CAC).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study of 947 male participants (332 HIV-seronegative, 84 HAART-naive and 531 HAART-experienced HIV-infected) from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study.

METHODS

The main outcome was CAC score calculated as the geometric mean of the Agatston scores of two computed tomography replicates. Presence of CAC was defined as calcification score above 10, and extent of CAC by the score for those with CAC present. Multivariable regression was used to evaluate the association between HIV infection and HAART and presence and extent of calcification.

RESULTS

Increasing age was most strongly associated with both prevalence and extent of CAC for all study groups. After adjustment for age, race, family history, smoking, high-density lipoprotein-C, low-density lipoprotein-C and hypertension, HIV infection (odds ratio, 1.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.70, 2.61) and long-term HAART use (odds ratio, 1.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.87, 2.05) increased the odds for presence of CAC. In contrast, after adjustment for these covariates, the extent of CAC was lower among HAART users. Among those not taking lipid-lowering therapy, HAART usage of at least 8 years was associated with significantly reduced CAC scores (relative CAC score, 0.43; 95% confidence interval, 0.24, 0.79).

CONCLUSION

HAART use may have different effects on the presence and extent of coronary calcification. Although prevalence of calcification was marginally increased among long-term HAART users, the extent of calcification was significantly reduced among HAART users compared with HIV-seronegative controls.

HIV infection and high density lipoprotein metabolism

HIV infection and its treatment are associated with dyslipidemia, including hypoalphalipoproteinemia, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Parameters of HDL metabolism in HIV-positive patients were investigated in a cross-sectional study. The following groups of subjects were selected: (i) 25 treatment-naïve HIV-infected patients or HIV-infected patients on long therapy break, (ii) 28 HIV-infected patients currently treated with protease inhibitors, and (iii) 33 HIV-negative subjects. Compared to the HIV-negative group, all groups of HIV-infected patients were characterized by significantly elevated triglyceride and apolipoprotein B levels, mass and activity of lecithin cholesterol acyl transferase and cholesteryl ester transfer protein (p<0.01). Total and LDL cholesterol was lower in treatment-naïve HIV-infected group only. HDL cholesterol and prebeta(1)-HDL were significantly lower in all HIV-infected groups (p<0.05), while mean levels of apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) and ability of plasma to promote cholesterol efflux were similar in all groups. We found a positive correlation between apoA-I and levels of CD4+ cells (r(2)=0.3, p<0.001). Plasma level of phospholipid transfer protein was reduced in the group on antiretroviral therapy. Taken together these results suggest that HIV infection is associated with modified HDL metabolism re-directing cholesterol to the apoB-containing lipoproteins and likely reducing the functionality of reverse cholesterol transport.

Assistência de enfermagem a um paciente infartado portador de HIV, baseada na teoria do autocuidado: estudo de caso

OBJETIVO: Aplicar a Sistematização da Assistência de Enfermagem (SAE) a um paciente portador de HIV e infartado. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo de caso realizado em um hospital escola localizado na região metropolitana de São Paulo, em novembro de 2003, utilizando a Sistematização da Assistência de Enfermagem e propondo diagnósticos de enfermagem com base na taxonomia II NANDA bem como as intervenções de enfermagem relacionadas. RESULTADOS: Os principais diagnósticos de enfermagem identificados foram: Risco para controle ineficaz do regime terapêutico, ansiedade, perfusão tissular cardíaca alterada, mobilidade física prejudicada, proteção alterada, risco para infecção, entre outros. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo mostrou a importância da Sistematização da Assistência de Enfermagem e da decisão do paciente em engajar-se no autocuidado a fim de proporcionar uma melhora no padrão de resposta do doente à doença.

Human immunodeficiency virus impairs reverse cholesterol transport from macrophages

Several steps of HIV-1 replication critically depend on cholesterol. HIV infection is associated with profound changes in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and an increased risk of coronary artery disease. Whereas numerous studies have investigated the role of anti-HIV drugs in lipodystrophy and dyslipidemia, the effects of HIV infection on cellular cholesterol metabolism remain uncharacterized. Here, we demonstrate that HIV-1 impairs ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1)-dependent cholesterol efflux from human macrophages, a condition previously shown to be highly atherogenic. In HIV-1–infected cells, this effect was mediated by Nef. Transfection of murine macrophages with Nef impaired cholesterol efflux from these cells. At least two mechanisms were found to be responsible for this phenomenon: first, HIV infection and transfection with Nef induced post-transcriptional down-regulation of ABCA1; and second, Nef caused redistribution of ABCA1 to the plasma membrane and inhibited internalization of apolipoprotein A-I. Binding of Nef to ABCA1 was required for down-regulation and redistribution of ABCA1. HIV-infected and Nef-transfected macrophages accumulated substantial amounts of lipids, thus resembling foam cells. The contribution of HIV-infected macrophages to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis was supported by the presence of HIV-positive foam cells in atherosclerotic plaques of HIV-infected patients. Stimulation of cholesterol efflux from macrophages significantly reduced infectivity of the virions produced by these cells, and this effect correlated with a decreased amount of virion-associated cholesterol, suggesting that impairment of cholesterol efflux is essential to ensure proper cholesterol content in nascent HIV particles. These results reveal a previously unrecognized dysregulation of intracellular lipid metabolism in HIV-infected macrophages and identify Nef and ABCA1 as the key players responsible for this effect. Our findings have implications for pathogenesis of both HIV disease and atherosclerosis, because they reveal the role of cholesterol efflux impairment in HIV infectivity and suggest a possible mechanism by which HIV infection of macrophages may contribute to increased risk of atherosclerosis in HIV-infected patients.

HIV1-Nef impairs ABCA1-dependent cholesterol efflux from infected macrophages, promoting the transformation of virally infected macrophages into foam cells (a condition that may put HIV patients at risk for atherosclerosis).

Comparison of the risks of atherosclerotic events versus death from other causes associated with antiretroviral use

BACKGROUND

Studies considering the risk of atherosclerotic disease (AtD) associated with the use of HAART have reported inconsistent results.

METHODS

Data on antiretroviral therapy (ART) use, risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), AtD and death from other causes in 18 603 HIV-infected patients from two established cohorts were evaluated. The relative hazards of AtD and death from other causes were calculated using a proportional hazards competing risks framework. The impact of protease inhibitor (PI)-containing, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-containing or PI + NNRTI-containing regimens on these outcomes were compared to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)-only regimens or stopping therapy, adjusting for known CVD risk factors.

RESULTS

In 77 480 person-years of follow-up (median duration 3.49 years) there were 318 AtD events including 92 myocardial infarctions and 2044 deaths. Older age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, having smoked and HIV disease stage were significantly associated with increased risk of AtD. PI- and NNRTI-containing regimens significantly reduced the joint risk of either AtD or death from other causes compared to NRTI-only or stopping therapy [hazard ratio (HR) for PI-containing ART, 0.76, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.73-0.78, P< 0.001; NNRTI-containing ART, 0.69, 95% CI, 0.65-0.74; P< 0.001). PI-containing ART was associated with a borderline significant increased risk of myocardial infarction (cause-specific HR for PI-containing ART 1.19, 95% CI, 1.01-1.40, P = 0.04) but not with increased risk of AtD compared to NRTI-only regimens or stopping therapy (cause-specific HR for PI-containing ART, 1.03, 95% CI, 0.95-1.13, P = 0.44).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall benefits of PI- and NNRTI-based ART in reducing mortality significantly outweigh any risks of AtD in the "short-term" follow-up of this study. Traditional cardiac risk factors play an important role in determining AtD risk status.

["HAART-attack" in young female HIV-patient]

Since the implementation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) there is a dramatic decline in morbidity and mortality due to reduction of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected patients resulting in improved prognosis. Unfortunately, patients receiving HAART are at risk for metabolic complications, which may induce the development of coronary artery and cerebrovascular disease, particularly in young patients and in the presence of additional cardiovascular risk factors. A 30-years old female HIV-infected patient who developed an acute myocardial infarction is described.

What a Cardiologist Needs to Know About Patients With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Patient case: A 48-year-old man with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection developed chronic chest pain that started after a bout of pneumonia. He has hypertension and has smoked cigarettes in the past. His current medications include Kaletra and Combivir. His total cholesterol was 331 mg/L, his HDL cholesterol was 27 mg/L, his triglycerides were 935 mg/L, and his LDL cholesterol could not be calculated. How should this patient be evaluated and managed?

Impact of HIV and highly active antiretroviral therapy on leukocyte adhesion molecules, arterial inflammation, dyslipidemia, and atherosclerosis

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has greatly extended the lives of people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This reduced risk of early death from opportunistic infections or other sequelae of HIV infection, however, means that other possible causes of death emerge. Myocardial infarction has become a matter of particular concern. Two of the main sources of cardiovascular disease in this population are believed to be vascular inflammation and dyslipidemia. We review the evidence for this hypothesis and discuss the relationship of HIV to vascular inflammation. Current treatment guidelines do not recommend the immediate initiation of HAART unless warranted, potentially allowing long-term, unchecked viral impact on the development of atherosclerosis. Finally, we consider the protease inhibitors traditionally included in HAART regimens and their relationship to the development of dyslipidemia, as well as other classes of antiretrovirals, such as the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, which might be a better choice for patients with cardiovascular risks. Other strategies, such as pharmacologic, nutritional, and physical activity interventions are discussed. The patients who might benefit most are those in whom the precursors of vascular plaques, such as fatty streak, smooth muscle cell, macrophage, and T-lymphocyte aggregation not yet identified by echocardiographic and biopsy findings have already developed as a result of unchecked viral inflammation and replication.

AIDS-related vasculopathy: evidence for oxidative and inflammatory pathways in murine and human AIDS

Increased life expectancy of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients has led to evidence of complications apparently not directly related to immunodeficiency or opportunistic infection, including increased cardiovascular risk. We tested the hypothesis that vascular dysfunction occurs in the murine acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) model and evaluated potential mechanisms in murine AIDS tissues and relevant human HIV/AIDS vascular tissues. We also investigated endothelial activation and/or endothelial protein nitration and their association with time-dependent vascular dysfunction. At 1 and 5 wk of murine AIDS, statistically significant decreases in KCl contractility and time-dependent contractile deficits in response to phenylephrine were observed. The maximal response (E(max)) was reduced by approximately 40% at 10 wk, and EC(50) values were significantly changed: 102 +/- 7.3 ng for control vs. 190 +/- 37 and 130 +/- 22 ng at 5 and 10 wk, respectively (P < 0.05). Endothelium-dependent relaxation to ACh was decreased (EC(50) = 120 +/- 27 and 343 +/- 94 nM for control and at 10 wk, respectively), whereas the response to an exogenous nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside, remained unchanged, suggesting a specific endothelial dysfunction. Histochemical investigations of the same vascular tissues as well as corresponding coronary endothelium showed an increase in protein 3-nitrotyrosine, intercellular adhesion molecule, and nitric oxide synthase isoforms 2 and 3. These findings were corroborated in concurrent experiments in a cohort of well-cataloged human cardiac microvascular tissues. We have demonstrated, for the first time, a specific functional vasculopathy with endothelial involvement in a murine model of AIDS that was also associated with and correlated to increased oxidative stress and specific endothelial activation. This finding was echoed in a relevant population of human HIV/AIDS patients. Research into sources and intracellular targets of oxidants in this disease could provide important mechanistic insights and may reveal new therapeutic opportunities for this increasingly important cardiovascular disease state.

Combination antiretroviral therapy and the risk of myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

It remains controversial whether exposure to combination antiretroviral treatment increases the risk of myocardial infarction.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, we enrolled 23,468 patients from 11 previously established cohorts from December 1999 to April 2001 and collected follow-up data until February 2002. Data were collected on infection with the human immunodeficiency virus and on risk factors for and the incidence of myocardial infarction. Relative rates were calculated with Poisson regression models. Combination antiretroviral therapy was defined as any combination regimen of antiretroviral drugs that included a protease inhibitor or a nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor.

RESULTS

Over a period of 36,199 person-years, 126 patients had a myocardial infarction. The incidence of myocardial infarction increased with longer exposure to combination antiretroviral therapy (adjusted relative rate per year of exposure, 1.26 [95 percent confidence interval, 1.12 to 1.41]; P<0.001). Other factors significantly associated with myocardial infarction were older age, current or former smoking, previous cardiovascular disease, and male sex, but not a family history of coronary heart disease. A higher total serum cholesterol level, a higher triglyceride level, and the presence of diabetes were also associated with an increased incidence of myocardial infarction.

CONCLUSIONS

Combination antiretroviral therapy was independently associated with a 26 percent relative increase in the rate of myocardial infarction per year of exposure during the first four to six years of use. However, the absolute risk of myocardial infarction was low and must be balanced against the marked benefits from antiretroviral treatment.