Impact of randomized antiretroviral therapy initiation on glucose metabolism

Exploring the Relation Between Diabetes and HIV: A Narrative Review

Diabetes mellitus, more usually abbreviated as DM or just diabetes, is a devastating metabolic disorder that claims many lives every year. Due to various variables, including the aging of the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)-infected population and the high prevalence of chronic medical conditions among persons living with HIV, the crossroads of DM and HIV infection has become a significant research topic. Although the connection between HIV and diabetes is not simple, many aspects of the virus and its treatment have been connected to the onset of diabetes. The presence of inconclusive evidence that HIV is a risk factor for diabetes makes this area more challenging and debatable. This article examines the prevalence of DM in the HIV-positive community, along with its assessment, management, and treatment objectives. The most recent diabetes treatment recommendations from authoritative groups are considered in this article to give readers thorough and current advice. These guidelines emphasize the importance of tailoring pharmacological therapy and treatment goals to suit the specific needs of individuals with diabetes, including those who are also living with HIV. Individualizing treatment plans ensures that healthcare professionals consider comorbidities, medication interactions, and potential side effects when managing diabetes concerning HIV. In the later part of the article, a holistic approach is discussed to address the increased risk of cardiovascular disease and associated complications in HIV-positive individuals with diabetes. This approach aims to mitigate cardiovascular risks and improve overall health outcomes through comprehensive strategies such as lifestyle modifications, regular monitoring, medication management, and integration of multidisciplinary healthcare teams. By considering the unique challenges and considerations of individuals living with both HIV and diabetes, healthcare providers can develop targeted interventions and provide optimal care. In order to improve the life and health of persons living with HIV and diabetes, the article stresses the significance of cooperation amongst professionals in these fields.

New onset type 2 diabetes mellitus risks with integrase strand transfer inhibitors-based regimens: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

The development of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients taking integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) has raised concerns. It's critical because, in most guidelines, INSTIs are the preferred third agent at first-line regimens. This study investigates the excess risk of developing DM among people living with HIV (PWH) on INSTIs-based regimens compared to those with other combination antiretroviral therapies (cART).

Methods

A search from PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, Latin America and Caribbean health sciences literature, Cochrane, and google scholar to retrieve case-control and cohort studies were done. The literature search was performed for studies from January 2007 to January 2021. Data were extracted from studies and pooled as risk ratios (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) using Stata 14 software. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO, ID: CRD42021230282.

Results

This review included ten studies, resulting in 62 400 participants. There was no significant difference in the incidence of DM between participants receiving INSTIs-based regimens versus other cARTs (RR 0.97, 95% CI: 0.92-1.03; participants = 50 958; studies = 4; I² = 86.8%, chi-square = 22.67). There is no statistically significant difference in DM among people treated with INSTIs-based regimens compared to those treated with boosted protease inhibitors (PIs)-based regimens (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.92-1.03; participants = 49 840; studies = 3; I² = 89.3%, chi-square = 18.65). DM incidence was lower in INSTIs-based regimens than in those using non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs)-based regimens (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.69-0.91; participants = 42 346; studies = 2; I² = 0%, chi-square = 0.18).

Conclusion

The present review shows a nonsignificant difference in the incidence of DM in patients receiving INSTIs-based regimens compared to other regimens. However, there was a lower incidence of DM in the INSTIs group compared to the NNRTIs-based and PIs compared to the NNRTIs-based. When the INSTIs drugs dolutegravir, raltegravir, and elvitegravir were compared, there was a lower incidence of DM in raltegravir compared with elvitegravir.

Cardiovascular Implications of Immune Disorders in Women

Immune responses differ between men and women, with women at higher risk of developing chronic autoimmune diseases and having more robust immune responses to many viruses, including HIV and hepatitis C virus. Although immune dysregulation plays a prominent role in chronic systemic inflammation, a key driver in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), standard ASCVD risk prediction scores underestimate risk in populations with immune disorders, particularly women. This review focuses on the ASCVD implications of immune dysregulation due to disorders with varying global prevalence by sex: autoimmune disorders (female predominant), HIV (male-female equivalent), and hepatitis C virus (male predominant). Factors contributing to ASCVD in women with immune disorders, including traditional risk factors, dysregulated innate and adaptive immunity, sex hormones, and treatment modalities, are discussed. Finally, the need to develop new ASCVD risk stratification tools that incorporate variables specific to populations with chronic immune disorders, particularly in women, is emphasized.

HIV Protease Inhibitors and Insulin Sensitivity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Protease inhibitors (PIs) are believed to affect insulin sensitivity. We aimed to analyze the effect of PIs on insulin sensitivity and the onset of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients with HIV. Methodology: We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, ClinicalTrals.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform till November 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that studied the effects of PIs on insulin sensitivity and DM in patients with HIV. We followed the PRISMA and PICOS frameworks to develop the search strategy. We used the random-effects meta-analysis model to estimate the mean difference (MD), standardized mean difference (SMD), and risk ratios for our outcomes, using Stata 14 software. Results: We included nine RCTs that enrolled 1,000 participants, with their ages ranging from 18 to 69 years. The parameters and investigations used in the studies to determine insulin sensitivity were glucose disposal rates, hyperglycemia, and mean glucose uptake. The majority of results showed an association between PIs and insulin sensitivity. The pooled analysis showed no statistically significant difference in insulin sensitivity with atazanavir, whether the study was performed on healthy individuals for a short term or long term in combination with other drugs like tenofovir or emtricitabine [SMD = 0.375, 95% CI (0.035, 0.714)]. The analysis showed reduced glucose disposal rates and hence reduced insulin sensitivity with lopinavir (heterogeneity chi-squared = 0.68, I-squared [variation in SMD attributable to heterogeneity] = 0.0%, p = 0.031). The heterogeneity with chi-squared was substantial (61-80%), while with I-squared was not significant (0-40%), p = 0.031). Less adverse events were observed with atazanavir than with lopinavir [RR = 0.987, 95% CI (0.849, 1.124)]. Darunavir and indinavir did not demonstrate any significant changes in insulin sensitivity. Most of the studies were found to have a low risk of bias. Conclusions: There are significant variations in the effects of PIs on insulin sensitivity and onsets of DM. Atazanavir, fosamprenavir, and darunavir did not demonstrate any significant changes in insulin sensitivity, compared to the rest of the group. There is a need to assess the benefits of PIs against the long-term risk of impaired insulin sensitivity. All patients newly diagnosed with HIV should have DM investigations before the start of ARVs and routinely. RCTs should focus on sub-Saharan Africa as the region is worst affected by HIV, but limited studies have been documented.

Risk for incident diabetes is greater in prediabetic men with HIV than without HIV

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a major comorbidity in people with HIV (PWH). Hyperglycemia below diabetic range defines prediabetes (prediabetes mellitus). We compared the progression from prediabetes mellitus to diabetes mellitus in PWH and people without HIV (PWOH).

METHODS

Fasting glucose was measured semiannually in the MACS since 1999. Men with prediabetes mellitus (fasting glucose between 100 and 125 mg/dl, confirmed within a year by fasting glucose in the prediabetes mellitus range or HbA1c between 5.7 and 6.4%) were included. The first visit with prediabetes mellitus was the baseline visit. Incident diabetes mellitus was defined as fasting glucose at least 126 mg/dl, confirmed at a subsequent visit, or self-reported diabetes mellitus, or use of anti-diabetes mellitus medication. We used binomial transition models to compare the progression from prediabetes mellitus to diabetes mellitus by HIV serostatus, adjusted for age, number of previous prediabetes mellitus to diabetes mellitus transitions, ethnicity, BMI, family history of diabetes mellitus, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

RESULTS

Between 1999 and 2019, 1584 men (793 PWH; 791 PWOH) with prediabetes mellitus were included. At baseline, PWH were younger (48 vs. 51 years, P < 0.01), had lower BMI (26 vs. 27), were more frequently nonwhite (47 vs. 30%), and HCV-infected as per last measure (8 vs. 4%) than PWOH (all P < 0.01). Over a median 12-year follow-up, 23% of participants developed diabetes mellitus. In adjusted analyses, the risk for incident diabetes mellitus was 40% (95% CI: 0--80%) higher among PWH than PWOH (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Among men with prediabetes mellitus, PWH had an increased risk of incident diabetes mellitus adjusted for competing risk factors, warranting the evaluation of diabetes mellitus prevention strategies.

Derangement of Liver Enzymes, Hyperglycemia, Anemia, and Associated Factors among HIV-Infected Patients Treated with Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate-Based Regimen in Ethiopia: A Prospective Cohort Study

Hepatotoxicity was found in different case reports and studies in tenofovir disoproxil fumarate- (TDF-) based regimen. However, there was no data regarding liver enzymes, glucose, and hemoglobin in Ethiopian patients receiving TDF-based regimen. The aim of this study was to determine elevated liver enzymes and its associated factors as well as elevated fasting plasma glucose and anemia. A hospital-based observational prospective cohort study was conducted on conveniently selected 63 patients in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) from January to September 2019. Laboratory values were determined at pre-TDF-based regimen baseline and six-month follow-up. The data was analyzed by using SPSS version 21.0, and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine associated factors with elevated liver enzymes. The overall elevated liver enzymes were found in 26 (41.3%) participants. From this, elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) comprise 3 (4.8%), 3 (4.8%), and 20 (31.8%), respectively. Elevated fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was found in 9 (14.3%) and 14 (22.2%) of participants at baseline and six-month visit, respectively. At six-month visit, 4 (6.4%) of participants experienced anemia. The mean value of ALP and FPG at six months was significantly higher than their respective baseline mean values (mean difference (MD) = +63.38, 95% CI (39.84, 86.92), p = 0.0001; MD = +6.64, 95% CI (2.63, 10.64), p = 0.002, respectively). The mean value of ALT, AST, and Hg at six months was slightly increased compared to their respective baseline mean values, but the difference was not significant. In multivariate analysis, only female sex was significantly associated with elevated ALP (AOR = 4.5, 95% CI (1.03, 19.6), p = 0.045). Overall mild and moderate hepatotoxicity was found to be high (26, 41.3%) in the present study, and from this, the majority was comprised by elevated ALP (20, 31.8%). The proportion of participants with hyperglycemia was increased at the end of follow-up compared to its baseline value, but anemia was not. Female sex was significantly associated with elevated ALP. This study warrants monitoring of liver enzymes and glucose in TDF-based regimen.

Greater Weight Gain in Treatment-naive Persons Starting Dolutegravir-based Antiretroviral Therapy

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have reported weight gain in virologically suppressed persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) switched from older antiretroviral therapy (ART) to newer integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based regimens. In this study, we investigated whether weight gain differs among treatment-naive PLWH starting INSTI-based regimens compared to other ART regimens.

METHODS

Adult, treatment-naive PLWH in the Vanderbilt Comprehensive Care Clinic cohort initiating INSTI-, protease inhibitor (PI)-, and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based ART between January 2007 and June 2016 were included. We used multivariable linear mixed-effects models to generate marginal predictions of weights over time, adjusting for baseline clinical and demographic characteristics. We used restricted cubic splines to relax linearity assumptions and bootstrapping to generate 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Among 1152 ART-naive PLWH, 351 initiated INSTI-based regimens (135 dolutegravir, 153 elvitegravir, and 63 raltegravir), 86% were male, and 49% were white. At ART initiation, median age was 35 years, body mass index was 25.1 kg/m2, and CD4+ T-cell count was 318 cells/μL. Virologic suppression at 18 months was similar between different ART classes. At all examined study time points, weight gain was highest among PLWH starting dolutegravir. At 18 months, PLWH on dolutegravir gained 6.0 kg, compared to 2.6 kg for NNRTIs (P < .05), and 0.5 kg for elvitegravir (P < .05). PLWH starting dolutegravir also gained more weight at 18 months compared to raltegravir (3.4 kg) and PIs (4.1 kg), though these differences were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment-naive PLWH starting dolutegravir-based regimens gained significantly more weight at 18 months than those starting NNRTI-based and elvitegravir-based regimens.

Dyslipidemia and Associated Factors in Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate-Based Regimen Among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Ethiopian Patients: A Hospital-Based Observational Prospective Cohort Study

Background

Studies showed conflicting results regarding the effect of broadly used tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-based regimen on lipid profiles, and in Ethiopia, there is no data regarding the magnitude of dyslipidemia and its associated factors.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the magnitude of dyslipidemia and its associated factors among adult human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients in TDF-based regimen in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) in Ethiopia.

Methods

A hospital-based observational prospective cohort study was conducted on conveniently selected 63 patients in TASH from January to September, 2019. The data was analyzed by using SPSS version 21.0, and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine associated factors with dyslipidemia.

Results

The overall dyslipidemia was 73% and 77.8% at baseline and six months, respectively. The prevalence of total cholesterol (TC) ≥200 mg/d, triglyceride (TG) ≥150 mg/dL, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) ≥130 mg/dL, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) <40 mg/dL was 38.1% vs 42.9%, 23.8% vs 31.7%, 17.5% vs 22.2%, and 41.3% vs 41.3% at baseline and six month follow-up, respectively. Age ≥50 years old (AOR = 0.6, 95% CI: 0.004-0.71, p = 0.026) and body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m² (AOR = 6.44, 95% CI: 1.34-30.9, p = 0.02) were significantly associated with TC ≥200 mg/dL. Having cancer (AOR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.01-0.6, p = 0.019) and education level below diploma (AOR = 9.47, 95% CI: 1.15-77.96, p = 0.037) were significantly associated with overall dyslipidemia.

Conclusion

In this study, the proportion of patients with dyslipidemia was higher at six month follow-up but there was no significant difference when compared to baseline. The mean LDL-c was significantly higher at six months compared to its baseline mean. The associated factors with dyslipidemia were age, BMI, having cancer and low level of education. Lipid profile monitoring is recommended in patients with a younger age and higher BMI.

Noninfectious Comorbidity in the African Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Noninfectious comorbid diseases (NCDs) contribute to morbidity and mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected populations in resource-rich countries. With antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale-up in Africa, understanding burden NCD informs public health strategy.

METHODS

At enrollment, participants at 11 HIV clinics in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Nigeria underwent medical history, physical, laboratory, and neuropsychological assessments to identify elevated blood pressure, hypercholesterolemia, dysglycemia, renal insufficiency, and cognitive impairment. Poisson regression models estimated adjusted relative risks (ARRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the number of NCDs associated with factors of interest. Logistic regression was used to evaluate each NCD separately among HIV-infected participants.

RESULTS

Among 2720 participants with complete NCD data, 2159 (79.4%) were HIV-infected. Of those, 1426 (66.0%) were taking ART and 813 (37.7%) had at least 1 NCD. HIV infection was associated with more NCDs, especially with ART (ARR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.22-1.66). In addition to age, body mass index, and program site, ART usage was associated with more NCDs (ARR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.27-1.78 for virologically suppressed and ARR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.13-1.68 for viremic) among HIV-infected participants. In participants taking ART, CD4 nadir below 200 cells/mm3 was associated with more NCDs (ARR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.06-1.93). ART use was independently associated with hypercholesterolemia and dysglycemia. Program site was significantly associated with all comorbidities except renal insufficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV infection was a risk for NCDs, which were common in HIV-infected participants, geographically variable, and largely consistent with metabolic complications of first-line ART.

Weight gain among treatment-naïve persons with HIV starting integrase inhibitors compared to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or protease inhibitors in a large observational cohort in the United States and Canada

INTRODUCTION

Weight gain following antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is common, potentially predisposing some persons with HIV (PWH) to cardio-metabolic disease. We assessed relationships between ART drug class and weight change among treatment-naïve PWH initiating ART in the North American AIDS Cohort Collaboration on Research and Design (NA-ACCORD).

METHODS

Adult, treatment-naïve PWH in NA-ACCORD initiating integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), protease inhibitor (PI) or non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based ART on/after 1 January 2007 were followed through 31 December 2016. Multivariate linear mixed effects models estimated weight up to five years after ART initiation, adjusting for age, sex, race, cohort site, HIV acquisition mode, treatment year, and baseline weight, plasma HIV-1 RNA level and CD4+ cell count. Due to shorter follow-up for PWH receiving newer INSTI drugs, weights for specific INSTIs were estimated at two years. Secondary analyses using logistic regression and all covariates from primary analyses assessed factors associated with >10% weight gain at two and five years.

RESULTS

Among 22,972 participants, 87% were male, and 41% were white. 49% started NNRTI-, 31% started PI- and 20% started INSTI-based regimens (1624 raltegravir (RAL), 2085 elvitegravir (EVG) and 929 dolutegravir (DTG)). PWH starting INSTI-based regimens had mean estimated five-year weight change of +5.9kg, compared to +3.7kg for NNRTI and +5.5kg for PI. Among PWH starting INSTI drugs, mean estimated two-year weight change was +7.2kg for DTG, +5.8kg for RAL and +4.1kg for EVG. Women, persons with lower baseline CD4+ cell counts, and those initiating INSTI-based regimens had higher odds of >10% body weight increase at two years (adjusted odds ratio = 1.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.20 to 1.56 vs. NNRTI).

CONCLUSIONS

PWH initiating INSTI-based regimens gained, on average, more weight compared to NNRTI-based regimens. This phenomenon may reflect heterogeneous effects of ART agents on body weight regulation that require further exploration.

Physical activity and exercise to improve cardiovascular health for adults living with HIV

Pharmacologic advancements in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has extended the life expectancy of people living with HIV (PLWH). An unfortunate side effect of HIV treatment, however, is an increased prevalence of dyslipidemia, glycemic dysregulation and abnormal distribution of body fat (lipodystrophy). Consequently, the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) is significantly increased in PLWH and ultimately a major cause of mortality. Physical activity and exercise training are interventions that have effectively protected against the development of CVD and, in the presence of CVD, has help mitigate morbidity and mortality. Early concerns over potential immunosuppressive effects of exercise in PLWH have largely been dispelled and in some cases exercise has been shown to strengthen markers of immune function. Interventions with aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, and their combination, particularly at higher intensities, are showing promising health outcomes in PLWH. This review will summarize the key cardiovascular and metabolic effects of antiretroviral therapy; the effects of the types and intensities of exercise on cardiorespiratory fitness, cardiometabolic markers, and muscle strength; and provide recommendations on strategies to apply exercise interventions in clinical settings.

Is there a connection between gestational diabetes mellitus, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and tuberculosis?

Pregnancy is associated with insulin resistance similar to that found in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in key tuberculosis (TB) endemic countries, such as India and China, has been increasing rapidly in the last decade and may be higher in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected women. Pregnancy is also an independent risk factor for developing active TB; however, little is known about the interaction of GDM, HIV and TB. We review the epidemiology and immunology of GDM, and significant research gaps in understanding the interactions between GDM, pregnancy, and TB in women living with and those without HIV.

Metabolic profiles of individuals switched to second-line antiretroviral therapy after failing standard first-line therapy for treatment of HIV-1 infection in a randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

To investigate metabolic changes associated with second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) following virological failure of first-line ART.

METHODS

SECOND-LINE was an open-label randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive ritonavir-boosted lopinavir (LPV/r) with 2-3 nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (N[t]RTI group) or raltegravir (RAL group). 210 participants had a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-scan at baseline, week 48 and 96. We categorized participants according to second-line ART backbone: thymidine analogue (ta-NRTI) + lamivudine/emtricitabine (3[F]TC; ta-NRTI group); tenofovir (TDF)+3(F)TC (TDF group); TDF+ta-NRTI ±3(F)TC (TDF+ta-NRTI group); RAL. Changes in fasted total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, TC/HDL-cholesterol ratio, triglycerides and glucose from baseline to week 96 were examined. We explored the association between metabolic and DXA-assessed soft-tissue changes. Linear regression methods were used.

RESULTS

We analysed 454 participants. Participants in RAL group had greater TC increases, TC (adjusted mean difference [aMD]=0.65, 95% CI 0.33, 0.96), LDL-c (aMD=0.38, 95% CI 0.15, 0.61) and glucose (aMD=0.47, 95% CI -0.01, 0.92) compared to TDF group, and had greater increases in TC (aMD=0.65, 95% CI 0.28, 1.03), HDL-c (aMD=0.12, 95% CI 0.02, 0.23) and LDL-c (aMD=0.41, 95% CI 0.13, 0.69) compared to TDF+ta-NRTI group. TC/HDL ratio and triglycerides increased in all groups without significant differences between groups. A 1 kg increase in trunk fat mass was associated with an increase in TC.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed metabolic changes of limited clinical significance in the relatively young population enrolled in this study. However, the metabolic changes observed may have greater clinical significance in older people living with HIV or those with other concomitant cardiovascular risks.

Continued Interest and Controversy: Vitamin D in HIV

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Vitamin D (VitD) deficiency is highly prevalent among HIV-infected individuals. Given the overlapping risk for several chronic disease and immunomodulatory outcomes from both long-standing HIV and VitD deficiency, there is great interest in clarifying the clinical role of VitD for this population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have expanded our knowledge regarding the epidemiology and mechanisms of VitD deficiency-associated outcomes in the setting of HIV. Clinical trials focusing on VitD supplementation have demonstrated a positive impact on bone mineral density in subgroups of HIV-infected individuals initiating ART or on suppressive ART regimens; however, significant heterogeneity exists between studies and data are less consistent with other clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify uncertainly in several domains, including identifying patients at greatest risk for poor outcomes from VitD deficiency, standardizing definitions and measurement techniques, and better quantifying the benefits and risks of VitD supplementation across different demographic strata for skeletal and extra-skeletal outcomes.

Factors Associated With Insulin Resistance in Adults With HIV Receiving Contemporary Antiretroviral Therapy: a Brief Update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This narrative review summarizes recent data on factors associated with insulin resistance (IR) in adults with HIV, including contemporary antiretroviral therapy (ART).

RECENT FINDINGS

IR remains common in persons with HIV, even those receiving contemporary ART. Generalized and abdominal obesity and ectopic fat are correlates of IR, and emerging data have identified associations with biomarkers of inflammation and immune activation. Small studies suggest associations between mitochondria and IR. In ART-naïve individuals, IR increased within 4 weeks of starting ART in persons receiving contemporary boosted protease inhibitors or an integrase inhibitor. The importance of IR in non-diabetic persons with HIV will continue to grow as the population ages and obesity increases. Non-invasive estimates of IR appear to perform well in persons with HIV, but clinically relevant cutoffs are uncertain. Unexpected metabolic effects of newer HIV integrase inhibitors have been reported; thus, careful observation for and studies of IR are still warranted.

High prevalence of insulin resistance and occurrence prior to hyperinsulinemia threshold among people living with HIV in Pune, India

BACKGROUND

Diabetes prevalence in HIV is not well characterized for India, despite the high burden of both individual diseases. Epidemiology of insulin resistance (IR): a precursor to diabetes, and its associated risk factors are also poorly understood in Asian Indian people living with HIV (PLHIV). We assessed the prevalence of diabetes and IR in Pune, India and the associated risk factors for IR.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis of adult (≥18 years) PLHIV receiving care at Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Government Medical College and Sassoon General Hospitals, Pune, India (BJGMC- SGH). Proportions and medians of PLHIV characteristics by diabetes status and IR were described. Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA) index value ≥2 was used to define IR. Line of least squares assessed the relationship between IR and hyperinsulinemia. Association between sociodemographic, clinical factors with IR was determined using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 485 enrollees, 47% were men, median age was 40 years (IQR: 35-46), median CD4 counts were 389 cells/mm³ (246-609). Thirty-five percent were centrally obese, 75% were adherent to WHO recommended physical activity guidelines. Prevalence of diabetes, prediabetes, IR were 9%, 16% and 38%, respectively. Twenty-nine percent non-diabetics had IR and it occurred much prior to the threshold for hyperinsulinemia. IR was associated with the use of ART drugs (OR: 6.6, 95% CI: 2.9-15.2 and 5.4, 95% CI: 2.2-13.6 for first- and second line ART respectively) and central obesity (OR:1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.4).

CONCLUSIONS

One fourth of the study population was diabetic or prediabetic and more than a third had IR. Better understanding of diabetes disease progression in relation to IR and the effect of physical activity on central obesity among Asian Indian PLHIV is mandated.

Race/Ethnicity and Protease Inhibitor Use Influence Plasma Tenofovir Exposure in Adults Living with HIV-1 in AIDS Clinical Trials Group Study A5202

AIDS Clinical Trial Group study A5202 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00118898) was a phase 3b, randomized, partially blinded equivalence study of open-label atazanavir/ritonavir or efavirenz, plus either placebo-controlled tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine or abacavir/lamivudine, in treatment-naive adults living with HIV-1, evaluating efficacy, safety, and tolerability. We report an analysis of the contribution of participant characteristics to the disposition of tenofovir plasma concentrations. Tenofovir concentration data from a total of 817 individuals (88% of the total number of eligible patients randomly assigned to receive treatment in the TDF-containing arms of A5202) were available for analysis. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. One- and two-compartment models with first-order absorption and first-order elimination were evaluated. An exponential error model was used for examination of interindividual variability (IIV), and a proportional and mixed-error model was assessed for residual variability. The final structural model contained two compartments with first-order absorption and elimination. IIV was estimated for apparent clearance (CL/F) and the first-order absorption rate constant (k_a ), and a proportional residual variability model was selected. The final mean parameter estimates were as follows: k_a = 2.87 h^-1, CL/F = 37.2 liters/h, apparent volumes of the central and peripheral compartments = 127 and 646 liters, respectively, and apparent intercompartmental clearance = 107 liters/h. In addition to race/ethnicity, creatinine clearance and assignment to atazanavir/ritonavir or efavirenz were significantly associated with CL/F (P < 0.001). In conclusion, race/ethnicity is associated with tenofovir oral CL in HIV-1 positive, treatment-naive adults. This covariate relationship raises questions about the possibility of differences in efficacy and risk of adverse events in different patient populations and suggests that examining preexposure prophylaxis regimens and tenofovir exposure in different race/ethnicity groups be considered.

Diabetes and HIV

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review seeks to address the epidemiology and pathophysiological basis of the interaction between HIV infection and diabetes and the implication for treatment. Its importance stems from the current context of the growing burden of both conditions and the possible mechanisms of interactions that may exist but not yet sufficiently examined.

RECENT FINDINGS

HIV infection is associated with increased risk of insulin resistance, and ART is associated with metabolic derangement and the occurrence of type 2 diabetes. The increasing survival among people with HIV infection in developing countries is paralleled by a growing burden of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) especially cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is higher in HIV-positive persons compared to the general population, and especially those with associated hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infection. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) during chronic HIV infection is the most incriminated risk factor for the development of diabetes mellitus through diverse mechanisms depending on the ART leading to insulin resistance and increased inflammatory status. A staggering 629 million of people 20-79 years are projected to have diabetes by 2045 while the world will soon enter the fourth decade of the HIV infection. Classical risk factors for diabetes such as physical inactivity and unhealthy diet may not solely explain the current trends, suggesting the role of novel risk factors including infections/inflammation. HIV and its treatment have been identified as potential contributors. Co-infections frequently observed during HIV infection also significantly influence both the epidemiological and pathophysiological of the link between HIV and diabetes. Although the relative contribution of each risk factor has not yet been quantified, several lines of evidence suggest that ART is a major contributor to hyperglycemia in HIV infection. ARTs have also led to an increase in metabolic dysfunction, including insulin resistance syndromes, dyslipidemia, and lipodystrophy. The association between ARTs and the risk of developing diabetes therefore calls for a careful choice of medication and evaluation of the risk of developing diabetes.

Association between the use of protease inhibitors in highly active antiretroviral therapy and incidence of diabetes mellitus and/or metabolic syndrome in HIV-infected patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis tries to determine whether there is an association between the use of protease inhibitors (PIs) and the incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and/or metabolic syndrome (MS) in HIV-infected patients. A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed, CENTRAL, LILACS, and EMBASE. Included articles were observational studies published on or prior to November 2015 that met specific inclusion criteria. Pooled relative risks (RRs) and hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria, describing 13,742 HIV patients. Use of PIs was associated with the development of MS (RR: 2.11; 95% CI 1.28-3.48; p-value 0.003). No association between the use of PIs and development of DM was found: the HR for the incidence of DM among patients using PIs was 1.23 (95% CI 0.66-2.30; p-value: 0.51) and the RR was 1.25 (95% CI 0.99-1.58; p-value 0.06). Use of PIs in HIV-infected patients is associated with an increased risk of MS. No evidence of an increased risk of DM was found. However, because MS is a precursor to DM, it is possible that studies with a longer follow-up duration are needed in order to detect an association between PI use and onset of DM.

Vitamin D Supplementation Does Not Affect Metabolic Changes Seen With ART Initiation

Background

Insulin resistance and lipid changes are common after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. Observational studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation reduces the risk of developing diabetes and improves lipid profiles.

Methods

This 48-week prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated high-dose vitamin D3 (4000 IU daily) plus calcium supplementation (1000 mg calcium carbonate daily) in HIV-infected participants initiating ART with efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir (EFV/FTC/TDF). Changes in insulin resistance (as estimated by homeostatic model assessment), fasting lipid profile, and components of the metabolic syndrome were assessed at baseline, 24 weeks, and 48 weeks. Stratified Wilcoxon rank sum tests and stratified normal score tests were used to evaluate differences between treatment arms, stratified by screening 25-OH vitamin D stratum (≤/>20 ng/mL).

Results

A total of 165 participants enrolled: 79 in the vitamin D/calcium (Vit D/Cal) arm and 86 in the placebo arm. Only the placebo arm experienced a modest increase in insulin resistance at week 24 (P < .001). While increases in total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significant in both arms at weeks 24 and 48, increases in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol at week 24 were only identified in the placebo arm (P = .011). Body mass index remained stable, whereas modest increases in waist circumference were observed in the placebo arm. Metabolic syndrome was present in 19 participants (12%) at baseline and 20 participants (14%) at week 48, without differences between arms.

Conclusions

Vit D/Cal supplementation over 48 weeks did not alter the lipid profile or glucose metabolism experienced with initiation of EFV/FTC/TDF in ART-naïve persons. Vitamin D supplementation is unlikely to be an effective strategy to attenuate metabolic dysregulations with ART initiation.

Diabetes, metabolic syndrome and dyslipidemia in people living with HIV in Africa: re-emerging challenges not to be forgotten

BACKGROUND

The current challenge in managing people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHIV) includes the identification and monitoring for comorbid health risks associated with HIV and its treatment and longer survival. Dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome are increasingly seen in PLWHIV.

OBJECTIVE

In this narrative review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge about diabetes, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome in PLWHIV in Africa and also to discuss the challenges that patients as well as health authorities in Africa may face.

METHODS

PubMed and Google scholar published-English literatures concerning earlier mentioned entities regardless of time limit were critically reviewed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of metabolic disorders in HIV population in Africa was estimated to range from 2.1% to 26.5% for diabetes and 20.2% to 43.5% for pre-diabetes, 13% to 58% for metabolic syndrome and 13% to 70% for dyslipidemia.

CONCLUSION

The management of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease risks related to HIV is complex especially in Africa due to healthcare resources, but our experience suggests that metabolic clinic is beneficial to patients and staff and should be an important part of HIV services especially as the older HIV population is increasing. In this context, cardiovascular risk assessment of HIV-infected patients will become an important component of care in developing countries in Africa and strategies are needed to deal with progressive increase in the epidemic of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome.

Changes in Insulin Resistance After Initiation of Raltegravir or Protease Inhibitors With Tenofovir-Emtricitabine: AIDS Clinical Trials Group A5260s

HIV-infected treatment-naive participants were randomized to tenofovir-emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) plus atazanavir-ritonavir (ATV/r), darunavir-ritonavir (DRV/r), or raltegravir (RAL) over 96 weeks. Insulin resistance increased rapidly and then plateaued and no differences were found with RAL when compared to ATV/r or DRV/r.

Background. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can alter glucose metabolism, but little data exist on the association of raltegravir (RAL) with insulin resistance.

Methods. A5260s was a substudy of A5257, a prospective open-label randomized trial in which human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected treatment-naive participants were randomized to tenofovir-emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) plus atazanavir-ritonavir (ATV/r), darunavir-ritonavir (DRV/r), or RAL over 96 weeks. Baseline and changes in insulin resistance as estimated by the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were assessed. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to assess shifts in the distribution of fold increase from baseline between treatment arms, and Spearman correlation was used to assess associations between HOMA-IR and measures of inflammation and body composition.

Results. Three hundred twenty-eight participants were randomized; 90% were male, baseline median age was 36, HIV ribonucleic acid copies were 4.55 log₁₀ copies/mL, and CD4 cell count was 349/mm³. Overall, HOMA-IR increased significantly after 4 weeks (1.9-fold change; 95% confidence interval, 1.73–2.05) then plateaued over the remainder of the study. Changes in HOMA-IR were not different between the arms (P ≥ .23). Changes in HOMA-IR were associated with changes in body mass index at weeks 48 and 96 (r = 0.12–0.22; P ≤ .04). There was a trend with increases in HOMA-IR and increases in visceral abdominal fat at week 96 (r = 0.12; P = .06). At 48 and 96 weeks, HOMA-IR correlated with interleukin-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and soluble CD163 (r = 0.16–0.27; P ≤ .003).

Conclusions. Insulin resistance increased rapidly and then plateaued in treatment-naive participants initiating ART with TDF/FTC, and no differences were found with RAL when compared with ATV/r or DRV/r.

Key toxicity issues with the WHO-recommended first-line antiretroviral therapy regimen

INTRODUCTION

WHO recommends tenofovir, efavirenz, and lamivudine or emtricitabine for first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in adults, which replaced more toxic regimens using stavudine, zidovudine or nevirapine. Areas covered: We searched Pubmed to identify observational studies and randomized controlled trials reporting toxicity of these antiretrovirals published between 2011 and 2016, and hand-searched abstracts presented at major HIV conferences in 2015 and 2016, focusing on data from sub-Saharan Africa. Tenofovir's nephrotoxicity manifests as mild renal tubular dysfunction (common and of uncertain clinical significance), acute kidney injury (rare), and chronic declining glomerular filtration rate (common). African studies, which include high proportions of patients with renal dysfunction from opportunistic diseases, report population improvement in renal function after starting tenofovir-based ART. Tenofovir modestly decreases bone mineral density, and there is emerging data that this increases fracture risk. Efavirenz commonly causes early self-limiting neuropsychiatric toxicity and hypersensitivity rashes. Recent studies have highlighted its long-term neuropsychiatric effects, notably suicidality and neurocognitive impairment, and metabolic toxicities (dyslipidemia, dysglycemia, and lipoatrophy). We point out the challenges clinicians face in the recognition and attribution of adverse drug reactions. Expert commentary: Tenofovir and efavirenz are generally well tolerated, but both are associated with potentially serious toxicities. Pharmacovigilance systems in resource-limited settings with high HIV burden should be strengthened.

Superior Glucose Tolerance and Metabolomic Profiles, Independent of Adiposity, in HIV-Infected Women Compared With Men on Antiretroviral Therapy

In epidemiologic studies, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected men on antiretroviral therapy (ART) are at higher risk of incident diabetes mellitus compared with women with similar treatment histories. We used metabolomics to determine whether a sex difference in plasma amino acids, acylcarnitines, and organic acids predictive of diabetes and impaired energy metabolism is present in HIV-infected persons on long-term ART.We enrolled 70 HIV-infected adults (43% women) on efavirenz, tenofovir, and emtricitabine (Atripla) with HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL for over 2 years. Half of the HIV-infected subjects were obese, and these were matched with 30 obese HIV-negative controls. All subjects had no history of diabetes, statin use, or heavy alcohol use. Fasting insulin sensitivity was measured using homeostatic model assessment 2 (HOMA2), and adipose tissue was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry was used to quantitate fasting plasma branched chain and aromatic amino acids predictive of incident diabetes, and C3 and C5 acylcarnitinines and organic acids indicative of impaired energy metabolism.HIV-infected women had more baseline risk factors for insulin resistance: women were older (46 vs 44 years) and had a longer ART duration (8.4 vs 5.1 years, P < 0.05 for both) compared with men but had similar CD4+ count (median 701 cells/μL), smoking and hepatic C prevalence, and body mass index (BMI) (median 30.3 kg/m). However, women had higher insulin sensitivity compared with men (P < 0.01), and lower plasma levels of isoleucine, leucine, valine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine (P < 0.01 for all), and lower C3 and C5 acylcarnitines (P < 0.01 for all), in multivariable regression models after adjusting for DEXA fat mass index, age, race, CD4+ count, smoking, and ART duration. In the obese HIV-infected subjects and HIV-negative controls, the relationship of sex and plasma metabolite levels did not significantly differ according to HIV-status.HIV-infected women on non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based ART had superior glucose tolerance and lower plasma metabolites associated with the development of diabetes compared with men with similar metabolic disease risk profiles. The relationship between sex and plasma metabolite levels did not significantly differ according to HIV-status among obese subjects, suggesting the observed sex-differences may not be specific to HIV infection.

Risk Factors for Incident Diabetes in a Cohort Taking First-Line Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor-Based Antiretroviral Therapy

Efavirenz is the preferred nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) in first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens in low- and middle-income countries, where the prevalence of diabetes is increasing. Randomized control trials have shown mild increases in plasma glucose in participants in the efavirenz arms, but no association has been reported with overt diabetes. We explored the association between efavirenz exposure and incident diabetes in a large Southern African cohort commencing NNRTI-based first-line ART. Our cohort included HIV-infected adults starting NNRTI-based ART in a private sector HIV disease management program from January 2002 to December 2011. Incident diabetes was identified by the initiation of diabetes treatment. Patients with prevalent diabetes were excluded. We included 56,298 patients with 113,297 patient-years of follow-up (PYFU) on first-line ART. The crude incidence of diabetes was 13.24 per 1000 PYFU. Treatment with efavirenz rather than nevirapine was associated with increased risk of developing diabetes (hazard ratio 1.27 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-1.46)) in a multivariate analysis adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, baseline CD4 count, viral load, NRTI backbone, and exposure to other diabetogenic medicines. Zidovudine and stavudine exposure were also associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. We found that treatment with efavirenz, as well as stavudine and zidovudine, increased the risk of incident diabetes. Interventions to detect and prevent diabetes should be implemented in ART programs, and use of antiretrovirals with lower risk of metabolic complications should be encouraged.

The metabolic and cardiovascular consequences of obesity in persons with HIV on long-term antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the effect of obesity on metabolic and cardiovascular disease risk factors in HIV-infected adults on antiretroviral therapy with sustained virologic suppression.

DESIGN

Observational, comparative cohort study with three group-matched arms: 35 nonobese and 35 obese HIV-infected persons on efavirenz, tenofovir and emtricitabine with plasma HIV-1 RNA  less than  50  copies/ml for more than 2 years, and 30 obese HIV-uninfected controls. Patients did not have diabetes or known cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

We compared glucose tolerance, serum lipids, brachial artery flow-mediated dilation, carotid intima-media thickness, and soluble inflammatory and vascular adhesion markers between nonobese and obese HIV-infected patients, and between obese HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients, using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and multivariate linear regression.

RESULTS

The cohort was 52% men and 48% nonwhite. Nonobese and obese HIV-infected patients did not differ by clinical or demographic characteristics. Obese HIV-uninfected controls were younger than obese HIV-infected patients and less likely to smoke (P < 0.03 for both). Among HIV-infected patients, obesity was associated with greater insulin release, lower insulin sensitivity, and higher serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α receptor 1 levels (P < 0.001), but similar lipid profiles, sCD14, sCD163, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and carotid intima-media thickness and flow mediated dilation. In contrast, Obese HIV-infected patients had adverse lipid changes, and greater circulating intercellular adhesion molecule 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and sCD14, compared with obese HIV-uninfected controls after adjusting for age and other factors.

CONCLUSION

Obesity impairs glucose metabolism and contributes to circulating high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α receptor 1 levels, but has few additive effects on dyslipidemia and endothelial activation, in Obese HIV-infected adults on long-term antiretroviral therapy.

Glucose Metabolism Disorders, HIV and Antiretroviral Therapy among Tanzanian Adults

INTRODUCTION

Millions of HIV-infected Africans are living longer due to long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART), yet little is known about glucose metabolism disorders in this group. We aimed to compare the prevalence of glucose metabolism disorders among HIV-infected adults on long-term ART to ART-naïve adults and HIV-negative controls, hypothesizing that the odds of glucose metabolism disorders would be 2-fold greater even after adjusting for possible confounders.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study conducted between October 2012 and April 2013, consecutive adults (>18 years) attending an HIV clinic in Tanzania were enrolled in 3 groups: 153 HIV-negative controls, 151 HIV-infected, ART-naïve, and 150 HIV-infected on ART for ≥ 2 years. The primary outcome was the prevalence of glucose metabolism disorders as determined by oral glucose tolerance testing. We compared glucose metabolism disorder prevalence between each HIV group vs. the control group by Fisher's exact test and used multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with glucose metabolism disorders.

RESULTS

HIV-infected adults on ART had a higher prevalence of glucose metabolism disorders (49/150 (32.7%) vs.11/153 (7.2%), p<0.001) and frank diabetes mellitus (27/150 (18.0%) vs. 8/153 (5.2%), p = 0.001) than HIV-negative adults, which remained highly significant even after adjusting for age, gender, adiposity and socioeconomic status (OR = 5.72 (2.78-11.77), p<0.001). Glucose metabolism disorders were significantly associated with higher CD4+ T-cell counts. Awareness of diabetes mellitus was <25%.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-infected adults on long-term ART had 5-fold greater odds of glucose metabolism disorders than HIV-negative controls but were rarely aware of their diagnosis. Intensive glucose metabolism disorder screening and education are needed in HIV clinics in sub-Saharan Africa. Further research should determine how glucose metabolism disorders might be related to immune reconstitution.

Impact of switching from lopinavir/ritonavir to boosted and un-boosted atazanavir on glucose metabolism: the ATAzanavir & GLUcose metabolism (ATAGLU) study

Previous studies have reported that protease inhibitors (PIs) can contribute to glycaemic alterations. However, there are few trials examining the direct effect of a single PI. The objective of the study was to evaluate the modifications of glucose and lipid profiles after a switch from lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) to atazanavir, used as ritonavir-boosted (ATV/r) or un-boosted. We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study on the effect of ATV/(r) on glycaemic metabolism (ATAGLU) in patients with undetectable levels of HIV-RNA who switched from LPV/r. In total, 235 patients treated for 48 weeks with LPV/r plus two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and with undetectable HIV-RNA were included: 134 continued LPV/r after the initial 48 weeks and 101 switched to ATV(/r) (18.3% to ATV; 24.7% to ATV/r). A significant decrease in mean glucose level and insulin resistance was observed in patients who switched to ATV(/r). The mean cholesterol triglyceride levels increased in the LPV/r group and decreased among the patients who switched. A significant increase of CD4 T cells with undetectable levels of HIV-RNA was observed in all groups. The long-term results obtained in this real-life study suggest that patients who have achieved initial suppression on a regimen including LPV/r + two NRTIs can switch to ATV/(r) + two NRTIs with an improvement in lipid and glycaemic metabolism.

Reductions in Plasma Cystatin C After Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy Are Associated With Reductions in Inflammation: ACTG A5224s

BACKGROUND

Among patients with HIV infection, changes in the kidney filtration marker cystatin C after initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) may be related to changes in body composition or biomarkers of inflammation.

METHODS

ACTG A5224s was a substudy of A5202, which randomly assigned ART-naive HIV-infected subjects to blinded abacavir/lamivudine (ABC/3TC) or tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) with open-label efavirenz (EFV) or ritonavir-boosted atazanavir. This analysis explored changes in cystatin C from 0 to 96 weeks.

RESULTS

Of the 269 subjects, 85% were male and 66% white non-Hispanics; baseline mean CD4 count was 236 cells per cubic millimeter and cystatin C was 0.89 mg/L. Cystatin C decreased significantly within each arm; however, ritonavir-boosted atazanavir attenuated the beneficial effects of ART on cystatin C compared to EFV. Compared to ABC/3TC, TDF/FTC led to a marginally significant attenuation for percent change analyses only. Higher baseline body mass index and HIV RNA were associated with larger reductions in cystatin C in multivariable models. At baseline, cystatin C was positively correlated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (Spearman r = 0.25), interleukin 6 (r = 0.34), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (r = 0.36), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (r = 0.54), tumor necrosis factor α (r = 0.57), and soluble TNF-α receptor I (r = 0.70, all P < 0.001). Reductions in cystatin C from 0 to 96 weeks correlated with reductions in all inflammatory biomarkers (r = 0.39-0.58, P < 0.001) except for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (r = 0.01, P = 0.89) and IL-6 (r = 0.08, P = 0.24).

CONCLUSIONS

The beneficial effect of ART on cystatin C concentrations is attenuated by boosted ATV when compared to EFV. Reductions in cystatin C after ART are associated with reductions in systemic inflammation.

Diagnosing and managing diabetes in HIV-infected patients: current concepts

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common condition with significant associated morbidity and mortality. DM diagnosis and management among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients is a particularly relevant topic as the HIV-infected population ages and more HIV-infected individuals live with chronic medical comorbidities. Although there is mixed evidence regarding HIV as an independent risk factor for DM, multiple factors related to HIV and its treatment are associated with DM. This review covers the epidemiology of DM in HIV-infected patients, and diagnosis, management, and treatment goals for DM in HIV-infected patients. We highlight the most recent DM treatment guidelines from the American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, emphasizing individualization of DM medication therapy and treatment goals. Finally, we review a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular disease risk reduction in HIV-infected patients with DM and measures to prevent other complications of DM.