High prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in HIV-infected patients: impact of different definitions of the metabolic syndrome

Sagittal Abdominal Diameter as the Best Predictor of Metabolic Syndrome in HIV-Infected Men on Antiretroviral Therapy

BACKGROUND

The interaction of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), host and antiretroviral therapy (ART) causes a range of metabolic disorders that can be characterized as a metabolic syndrome (MetS) that increases the cardiovascular risk. MetS involves central obesity, which can be detected using different anthropometric parameters.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the abilities of different anthropometric parameters in the prediction of MetS in HIV-infected men on ART.

METHOD

The study involved 92 male participants (mean age 44.46±10.38 years), divided into two groups: with and without MetS. All subjects underwent biochemical evaluation (triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, fasting glucose), blood pressure measurement and anthropometric assessment: body mass, body height, body mass index (BMI), body fat mass, body circumferences (chest, upper arm, forearm, waist, hip, proximal and middle thigh and calf), sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD), skinfold thicknesses (subscapular, anterior and posterior upper arm, anterior and lateral forearm, abdominal, supraspinal, thigh and calf), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist-to-thigh ratio (WTR), sagittal abdominal diameter-to-body height ratio (SADH), body adiposity index (BAI) and conicity index. MetS was specified according to IDF criteria.

RESULTS

Subjects with MetS had statistically significant higher values of all anthropometric parameters except middle thigh circumference, calf skinfold and body height. According to ROC analysis and Binary Logistic Regression, SAD has been shown as the best predictor of MetS with a predictive value of 21.40 cm (AUC:0.91), followed by WHR with a predictive value of 0.93.

CONCLUSION

Sagittal abdominal diameter is the strongest anthropometric indicator of MetS in HIV-infected patients on ART.

Determinants of Dyslipidemia in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Dyslipidemia is a common public health problem in Africa. It has emerged as an important cardiovascular risk factor. It has been steadily increasing due to economic growth, urbanization, and unhealthy dietary pattern. Therefore, it is essential to identify determinants of dyslipidemia to prevent the condition and reduce its long-term sequel.

Methods

Combinations of search terms with Boolean operators were used to retrieve studies from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database, Cinahl, Scopus, Mednar, and Google Scholar. The methodological quality of each article was evaluated based on the 2017 Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal checklist for prevalence studies. After evaluation of each study against these criteria, studies with a minimum score of 7 or above out of 9 JBI checklists were included. We included articles presented in the English language. The Cochrane Q test was used to assess the heterogeneity across studies. The visual assessment of publication bias was done by creating a funnel plot. The possible causes of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup analyses. Egger's weighted regression test was used to assess the presence of publication bias. Statistical analyses were done by using the STATA software version 14.

Result

A total of 24 articles involving 37,902 participants from 10 African countries were included. The overall pooled prevalence of dyslipidemia was 52.8 (95% CI 40.8–64.9). Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) >25.0 kg/m² and waist circumference (WC) >94 cm were, respectively, 2.36 (95% CI (1.33–4.18), p < 0.001) and 2.33 (95% CI (0.75–0.29) p < 0.001) times more likely to develop dyslipidemia than those with lower values. Furthermore, patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) were 2.32 (95% CI (0.89–6.05) p < 0.001) and 2.05 (95% CI (1.31–3.21), p < 0.001) times more likely to present with dyslipidemia than non-diabetic patients and those without HTN.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the prevalence of dyslipidemia is relatively high among study participants in African countries and the independent predictors of dyslipidemia were BMI >25.0 kg/m², WC > 94 cm, raised blood glucose level, and raised blood pressure. Therefore, there should be a pressing public health measure to prevent, identify, and treat dyslipidemia with the special emphasis on obese, diabetic, and hypertensive patients.

Sex Differences in Non-AIDS Comorbidities Among People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Women are grossly underrepresented in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) clinical and translational research. This is concerning given that people with HIV (PWH) are living longer, and thus accumulating aging-related non-AIDS comorbidities (NACMs); emerging evidence suggests that women are at higher risk of NACM development and progression compared with men. It is widely recognized that women vs men have greater immune activation in response to many viruses, including HIV-1; this likely influences sex-differential NACM development related to differences in HIV-associated chronic inflammation. Furthermore, many sociobehavioral factors that contribute to aging-related NACMs are known to differ by sex. The objectives of this review were to (1) synthesize sex-stratified data on 4 NACMs among PWH: bone disease, cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, and neurocognitive impairment; (2) evaluate the characteristics of key studies assessing sex differences in NACMs; and (3) introduce potential biological and psychosocial mechanisms contributing to emerging trends in sex-differential NACM risk and outcomes among PWH.

Depressive Disorders in HIV/AIDS: A Clinically Focused Narrative Review

After participating in this activity, learners should be better able to:• Assess strategies for diagnosing depressive disorders in patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS)• Identify factors that contribute to the development of depressive disorders in HIV/AIDS• Evaluate strategies for managing depressive disorders in HIV/AIDS ABSTRACT: Depressive disorders and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are associated with major socioeconomic burdens. The negative impact of depressive disorders on HIV/AIDS is well known, including on treatment outcomes. Unfortunately, depressive disorders are underdiagnosed and undertreated in seropositive persons. This review summarizes clinically useful information on depressive disorders in HIV/AIDS. More specifically, we address assessment, differential diagnosis, contributing factors, management, and common challenges in the treatment of depressive disorders in seropositive individuals. Assessment and diagnosis of depression may be challenging in seropositive persons because of several biopsychosocial particularities associated with HIV/AIDS. One of the difficulties is the overlap between depression and HIV/AIDS symptoms, particularly in individuals with advanced AIDS, requiring consideration of a broad differential diagnosis. Several factors related to HIV/AIDS status contribute to the higher rates of depressive disorders, including infectious-immunological, psychosocial, and exogenous factors. The treatment of depressive disorders in HIV/AIDS involves three groups of interventions: (1) pharmacological interventions, (2) psychotherapeutic interventions, and (3) management of other contributing factors. Challenges in management include poor adherence to treatment and the risk of suicide. We provide evidence-based recommendations to improve assessment and management of depressive disorders in seropositive persons.

Alcohol use and dysglycemia among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Alcohol & Metabolic Comorbidities in PLWH: Evidence Driven Interventions (ALIVE-Ex) study

BACKGROUND

At-risk alcohol use is a common and costly form of substance misuse that is highly prevalent among people living with HIV (PLWH). The goal of the current analysis was to test the hypothesis that PLWH with at-risk alcohol use are more likely to meet the clinical criteria for prediabetes/diabetes than PLWH with low-risk alcohol use.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was performed on measures of alcohol and glycemic control in adult PLWH (n = 105) enrolled in a prospective, interventional study (the ALIVE-Ex Study (NCT03299205)) that investigated the effects of aerobic exercise on metabolic dysregulation in PLWH with at-risk alcohol use. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), Timeline Followback, and phosphatidylethanol (PEth) level were used to measure alcohol use. Participants were stratified into low-risk (AUDIT score < 5) and at-risk alcohol use (AUDIT  score ≥ 5). All participants underwent an oral glucose tolerance test and measures of glycemic control- the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and Matsuda Index - were correlated with alcohol measures and compared by AUDIT score group using mixed-effects linear and logistic regression models, adjusting for age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), and viral load.

RESULTS

In response to the glucose challenge, participants with at-risk alcohol use (n = 46) had higher glucose levels and were five times more likely to meet criteria for prediabetes/diabetes (OR: 5.3 (1.8, 15.9)) than participants with an AUDIT score < 5. Two-hour glucose values were positively associated with AUDIT score and PEth level and a higher percentage of PLWH with at-risk alcohol use had glucose values ≥140 mg/dl than those with low-risk alcohol use (34.8% vs. 10.2%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of PLWH, at-risk alcohol use increased the likelihood of meeting the clinical criteria for prediabetes/diabetes (2-h glucose level ≥140 mg/dl). Established determinants of metabolic dysfunction (e.g., BMI, waist-hip ratio) were not associated with greater alcohol use and dysglycemia, suggesting that other mechanisms may contribute to the impaired glycemic control observed in this cohort.

An observational study of the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in treatment-experienced people living with HIV in Singapore

Background

While the use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has conferred significant reduction in morbidity and mortality, there are growing concerns about the metabolic complications of antiretroviral regimens in HIV-infected patients. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Singapore.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using the clinical database maintained by the Clinical HIV Programme at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore. Treatment-experienced PLHIV on follow-up during 2015–2017 were included. MetS was defined as having three or more of the following five abnormalities: hypertriglyceridemia, HDL hypocholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes.

Results

A total of 2,231 PLHIV were included in this study. 93.9% were men, and the median age at latest follow-up was 48 years. The median duration of HIV infection and duration of exposure to cART was 6.8 years and 5.7 years, respectively. All had been exposed to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) as the first line of treatment, 93.9% to non-NRTIs, 28.6% to protease inhibitors (PIs) and 12.8% to integrase strand transfer inhibitors. The most common metabolic abnormality among PLHIV was HDL hypocholesterolemia (60.2%) followed by hypertriglyceridemia (45.5%). Of all the 2,231 individuals, 68.8% had at least one component of MetS. The overall prevalence of MetS was 23.6% (95% confidence interval 21.9%–25.4%). Of the 526 with MetS, the most common combination was HDL hypocholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hypertension (51.0%), followed by HDL hypocholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension and diabetes (25.1%). Compared with PLHIV without MetS, a significantly higher proportion of those with MetS were ever on protease inhibitors (33.5% vs. 27.1%).

Conclusion

MetS is common in PLHIV. In view of the progressive aging of HIV-infected population and long-term use of cART, regular monitoring for metabolic abnormalities, surveillance of drug effects and behavioural interventions are needed to optimize management and prevention of metabolic disorders in PLHIV.

Metabolic syndrome in Zambian adults with human immunodeficiency virus on antiretroviral therapy: Prevalence and associated factors

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a constellation of factors including hypertension, abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance that separately and together significantly increase risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. In sub-Saharan Africa, with a substantial burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and increasing prevalence of CVD and diabetes, there is a paucity of epidemiological data on demographic, laboratory, and clinical characteristics associated with MetS among people with HIV (people with human [PWH]). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the burden and factors influencing MetS in antiretroviral therapy (ART)-experienced individuals in Zambia.We collected cross-sectional demographic, lifestyle, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data in a cohort of ART-experienced (on ART for ≥6 months) adults in 24 urban HIV treatment clinics of Zambia between August, 2016 and May, 2020. MetS was defined as having ≥3 of the following characteristics: low high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) (<1.0 mmol/L for men, <1.3 for women), elevated waist circumference (≥94 cm for men, ≥80 cm for women), elevated triglycerides (≥1.7 mmol/L), elevated fasting blood glucose (≥5.6 mmol/L), and elevated blood pressure (BP) (systolic BP ≥130 or diastolic BP ≥85 mm Hg). Virological failure (VF) was defined as HIV viral load ≥1000 copies/mL. The following statistical methods were used: Chi-square test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and multivariable logistic regression.Among 1108 participants, the median age (interquartile range [IQR]) was 41 years (34, 49); 666 (60.1%) were females. The prevalence of MetS was 26.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 23.9-29.1). Age (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.07; 95% CI 1.04-1.11), female sex (OR 3.02; 95% CI 1.55-5.91), VF (OR 1.98; 95% CI 1.01-3.87), dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimen (OR 2.10; 95% CI 1.05-4.20), hip-circumference (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.05), T-lymphocyte count (OR 2.23; 95% CI 1.44-3.43), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.01-1.29), and fasting insulin (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.04) were significantly associated with MetS.Metabolic syndrome was highly prevalent among HIV+ adults receiving ART in Zambia and associated with demographic, clinical, anthropometric, and inflammatory characteristics. The association between MetS and dolutegravir requires further investigation, as does elucidation of the impact of MetS on ART outcomes in sub-Saharan African PWH.

Improvement in insulin sensitivity and serum leptin concentration after the switch from a ritonavir-boosted PI to raltegravir or dolutegravir in non-diabetic HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVES

An observational, prospective, cohort study was performed to assess changes in insulin sensitivity and serum leptin level after a switch from a ritonavir-boosted PI (PI/r) to raltegravir or dolutegravir in HIV-infected adults on stable combination ART (cART).

METHODS

Non-diabetic HIV-infected patients receiving suppressive cART including tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine plus one PI/r, who underwent a switch from the PI/r to raltegravir (group A) or dolutegravir (group B), were enrolled in the study. Serum levels of insulin, leptin and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA) index were evaluated during a 12 month follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, 86 patients were enrolled: 45 patients were included in group A and 41 were included in group B. The mean age was 45.7 years and 74 (86%) patients were male. After 12 months of follow-up, a significant reduction in the mean concentration of leptin and insulin was reported both in group A [-0.61 ng/mL (P < 0.001) and -2.5 mIU/L (P = 0.008), respectively] and in group B [-0.54 ng/mL (P = 0.005) and -2.1 mIU/L (P = 0.017), respectively], without a significant difference between the groups. A significant and comparable reduction in the mean HOMA index was reported both in group A [-0.55 (P = 0.004)] and in group B [-0.49 (P < 0.001)], as well as a significant decrease in lipid levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In HIV-positive subjects on suppressive cART, the switch from a PI/r to raltegravir or dolutegravir led to a significant and comparable reduction in both HOMA index and serum leptin level, reflecting a similar and significant improvement in insulin sensitivity.

TAILoR (TelmisArtan and InsuLin Resistance in Human Immunodeficiency Virus [HIV]): An Adaptive-design, Dose-ranging Phase IIb Randomized Trial of Telmisartan for the Reduction of Insulin Resistance in HIV-positive Individuals on Combination Antiretroviral Therapy

BACKGROUND

Combination antiretroviral therapy results in metabolic abnormalities which increase cardiovascular disease risk. We evaluated whether telmisartan reduces insulin resistance in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals on antiretrovirals.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, randomized, open-label, dose-ranging controlled trial of telmisartan. Participants with HIV infection receiving combination antiretroviral therapy were randomized equally to either no intervention (control) or 20, 40, or 80 mg telmisartan once daily. The adaptive design allowed testing of all dose(s) of telmisartan in stage I, with the promising dose(s) being taken into stage II. The primary outcome measure was reduction in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) at 24 weeks.

RESULTS

A total of 377 patients were recruited. In stage I, 48, 49, 47, and 45 patients were randomized to control and 20, 40, and 80 mg telmisartan, respectively (total n = 189). At the interim analysis, 80 mg telmisartan was taken forward into stage II. At the end of stage II (n = 105, control; 106, 80-mg arm), there were no differences in HOMA-IR (estimated effect, 0.007; SE, 0.106) at 24 weeks between the telmisartan (80 mg) and nonintervention arms. Longitudinal analysis over 48 weeks showed no change in HOMA-IR, lipid or adipokine levels. There were significant (P ≤ .05), but marginal, improvements in revised Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI) (0.004) and plasma hs-CRP (-0.222 mg/L) and reduction in liver fat content (1.714 mean reduction; P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

No significant effect of telmisartan was demonstrated on the primary outcome (HOMA-IR), but there were marginal improvements with some secondary outcome measures. Further studies in this population are warranted to identify novel strategies for preventing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN registry (51069819).

Metabolic Syndrome in HIV/HCV Co-infected Patients

Purpose of review

We review the scope and burden of metabolic syndrome in HIV/HCV co-infected patients, risk factors and potential mechanisms driving the increased cardio-metabolic risk in this population, and discuss relevant clinical considerations for management in the era of highly effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) and curative anti-HCV direct-acting antivirals.

Recent findings

HIV/HCV co-infected patients are at elevated risk of metabolic syndrome, attributed to (1) patient-specific factors, (2) viral-mediated effects, and (3) ART exposure. Risk factors for cardio-metabolic disorders are common in this population and include poor socioeconomic conditions, substance use, cardiovascular comorbidities, and liver/kidney disease. Chronic HIV/HCV infection induces an inflammatory and immune activated state in the host leading to alterations in glucose and lipid metabolism. Selection of life-saving ART must carefully consider the differential metabolic risk associated with each drug class and agent, such as dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, weight gain and hypertension. Emerging evidence supports metabolic derangements in chronic HCV may be improved by viral eradication with direct-acting antivirals, however, additional study in HIV/HCV co-infected patients is needed.

Summary

Future research programs should aim to better characterize metabolic syndrome in HIV/HCV co-infected patients with the goal of improved screening, treatment and prevention.

Etiology and Severity of Liver Disease in HIV-Positive Patients With Suspected NAFLD: Lessons From a Cohort With Available Liver Biopsies

BACKGROUND

Spectrum of liver injury among HIV-positive people is wide; in particular, prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) seems to be higher compared with HIV-negative people.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated all liver biopsies performed at Royal Free Hospital from 2000 to 2017 in HIV monoinfected patients with abnormal transaminases, to assess the underlying cause of liver disease and to characterize the extent of fibrosis. We furthermore evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of FIB4 and FibroScan as noninvasive tools for fibrosis assessment.

RESULTS

Ninety-seven patients were included. Most common histological findings were NAFLD (28%), nonspecific changes (26%), and normal histology (13%). Twenty percent of the patients had significant fibrosis and 11% had advanced fibrosis. FIB4, at a cutoff of 1.3, had a specificity of 82% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 95% for exclusion of advanced fibrosis. FibroScan was available in 28% patients and 33% had a liver stiffness ≥7.5 kPa. FibroScan showed a specificity of 77% and NPV of 94% for exclusion of significant fibrosis. Among patients with NAFLD (n = 27), 18% had advanced fibrosis, whereas the majority (56%) did not have any fibrosis. The NPV of FIB4 for advanced fibrosis in these patients was 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

Among HIV-positive patients with elevated transaminases, a surprisingly high number of patients had nonsignificant changes or even normal histological findings. The prevalence of NAFLD was lower than reported in other series. Use of noninvasive tools with a high NPV for significant fibrosis can help reduce the number of required biopsies.

Metabolic complications affecting adipose tissue, lipid and glucose metabolism associated with HIV antiretroviral treatment

Introduction: Efficient antiretroviral-treatment (ART) generally allows control of HIV infection. However, persons-living-with-HIV (PLWH), when aging, present a high prevalence of metabolic diseases. Area covered: Altered adiposity, dyslipidemias, insulin resistance, diabetes, and their consequences are prevalent in PLWH and could be partly related to ART. Expert opinion: At first, personal and lifestyle factors are involved in the onset of these complications. The persistence of HIV in tissue reservoirs could synergize with some ART and enhance metabolic disorders. Altered fat repartition, diagnosed as lipodystrophy, has been related to first-generation nucleoside-reverse-transcriptase-inhibitors (NRTIs) (stavudine zidovudine) and some protease inhibitors (PIs). Recently, use of some integrase-inhibitors (INSTI) resulted in weight/fat gain, which represents a worrisome unresolved situation. Lipid parameters were affected by some first-generation NRTIs, non-NRTIs (efavirenz) but also PIs boosted by ritonavir, with increased total and LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides. Insulin resistance is common associated with abdominal obesity. Diabetes incidence, high with first-generation-ART (zidovudine, stavudine, didanosine, indinavir) has declined with contemporary ART close to that of the general population. Metabolic syndrome, a dysmetabolic situation with central obesity and insulin resistance, and liver steatosis are common in PLWH and could indirectly result from ART-associated fat gain and insulin resistance. All these dysmetabolic situations increase the atherogenic cardiovascular risk.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in HIV infection: a metabolic approach of an infectious disease

With the successes of antiretroviral therapy, patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) living longer. Regarding this, the common diseases of HIV population (i.e., opportunistic infections) are now losing ground in front of metabolic alterations. This phenomenon is related to the delay in progression to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), making it so that patients live in a chronic inflammatory state which, combined with other mechanisms such infectious ones, cause metabolic diseases. Areas covered: Considering a high prevalence of metabolic alterations, the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and liver diseases as a major cause of death in the HIV-infected population, this paper aims to overview the mechanisms and prevalence of NAFLD and NASH as they relate to the developed metabolic diseases of HIV patients. Expert opinion: The pathways underlying MetS include the effects of HIV and ART on the liver, adipose tissue, and muscle. These mechanisms result in liver damage, consequently leading to NAFLD and its more severe form NASH. These conditions have increased in HIV-infected population in recent years and since their life expectancy is improving it is important to be ready to attend their new emerging diseases.

[Nutritional diagnosis of people living with HIV/AIDS: a review of national and international protocols]

HIV infection is a predictor of several metabolic and body composition alterations, in addition to malnutrition, anemia, and hypovitaminosis. There are thus specificities of diagnosis and treatment depending on the stage of the disease and the outpatient or hospital environment. The scope of this narrative review was to update the conceptual and theoretical framework regarding the nutritional diagnosis of people living with HIV/AIDS. Current national and international scientific evidence published in scientific articles, recent books, protocols, consensuses, and guidelines were analyzed. The nutritional diagnosis encompasses several clinical aspects and abilities and specific knowledge about HIV/AIDS, such as: clinical history and current clinical situation, food consumption, anthropometric data, body composition, and biochemistry, blood pressure and physical examination. The nutritional diagnosis process was demonstrated in order to provide subsidies for the health teams in the identification of parameters that make it possible to establish a plan for nutritional care to promote, prevent and recuperate the alterations detected in people living with HIV/AIDS.

Markers of adiposity in HIV/AIDS patients: Agreement between waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio and body mass index

Background

Waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) are all independent predictors of cardio-metabolic risk and therefore important in HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy at risk of increased visceral adiposity. This study aimed to assess the extent of agreement between these parameters and the body mass index (BMI), as anthropometric parameters and in classifying cardio-metabolic risk in HIV/AIDS patients.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data from a cross-sectional study involving 200 HIV/AIDS patients was done. Anthropometric parameters were measured from participants using standard guidelines and central obesity defined according to recommended criteria. Increased cardio-metabolic risk was defined according to the standard cut-off values for all four parameters. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14.1.

Results

The prevalence of WC-defined central obesity, WHR-defined central obesity and WHtR > 0.50 were 33.5%, 44.5% and 36.5%, respectively. The prevalence of BMI-defined overweight and obesity was 40.5%. After adjusting for gender and HAART status, there was a significant linear association and correlation between WC and BMI (regression equation: WC (cm) = 37.184 + 1.756 BMI (Kg/m²) + 0.825 Male + 1.002 HAART, (p < 0.001, r = 0.65)), and between WHtR and BMI (regression equation: WHtR = 0.223 + 0.011 BMI (Kg/m²)– 0.0153 Male + 0.003 HAART, (p < 0.001, r = 0.65)), but not between WHR and BMI (p = 0.097, r = 0.13). There was no agreement between the WC, WHtR and BMI, and minimal agreement between the WHR and BMI, in identifying patients with an increased cardio-metabolic risk.

Conclusion

Despite the observed linear association and correlation between these anthropometric parameters, the routine use of WC, WHR and WHtR as better predictors of cardio-metabolic risk should be encouraged in these patients, due to their minimal agreement with BMI in identifying HIV/AIDS patients with increased cardio-metabolic risk. HAART status does not appear to significantly affect the association between these anthropometric parameters.

Prevalence and predictors of metabolic syndrome among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHIV)

BACKGROUND

Use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has led to significant reductions in morbidity and mortality. However, there is a growing concern about metabolic syndromes (MS), among patients receiving cART. Despite this fact, there is limited evidence for the prevalence of the MS among HIV-infected persons receiving cART in developing countries, particularly Ethiopia.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and predictors of MS among people living with HIV/AIDS in Jimma health centre, Jimma Zone south west Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Jimma health centre that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Data on demographic and anthropometric characteristics were collected using World health organization (WHO) stepwise approach. Fasting blood glucose and lipid profile was measured. The Third Report of National Cholesterol Education Program-adult treatment panel III (NCEP-ATP III)-2001, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF)-2005 and the Joint interim statement-2009 (JIS) criteria were used to define MS. Data were analyzed using statistical software package (SPSS) version 20.0. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify predictors of MS and predictors with p value < 0.05 were used to declare statistical significance.

RESULTS

Of 268 HIV-infected participants included in the analysis, 211 (78.7%) were women. The mean age of the participants was 39.32 ± 10.626 years. Using the NCEP-ATP III criteria, the prevalence of MS was found to be 23.5% (63 patients). While it was 20.5% (55 patients) and 27.6% (74 patients) with IDF and JIS criteria respectively. Enrollment in formal education resulted in 75% increment in the odds of MS (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI [0.072-0.879]). The odds of MS in patients with body mass index > 25 kg/m² was elevated to 13.4 times (AOR = 13.39, 95% CI [3.943-45.525]) and exposure to D-drugs was attributed to 59% increment in the odds of MS (AOR = 1.59, 95% CI [0.58-4.56]), although the finding lacks statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic syndromes was relatively common to the study population. Hence, promoting health education and monitoring patient's clinical and laboratory parameters at every visit and taking appropriate measure is ideal.

Mechanisms of liver disease in patients infected with HIV

Objective

To describe the various mechanisms of liver disease in patients with HIV infection, and to link these mechanisms to disease states which may utilise them.

Background

Non-AIDS causes of morbidity and mortality are becoming increasingly common in patients chronically infected with HIV. In particular, liver-related diseases have risen to become one of the leading causes of non-AIDS-related death. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms driving the development of liver disease in these patients is essential when evaluating and caring for these patients.

Methods

The literature regarding mechanisms of liver disease by which different disease entities may cause hepatic injury and fibrosis was reviewed and synthesised.

Results

A number of discrete mechanisms of injury were identified, to include: oxidative stress, mitochondrial injury, lipotoxicity, immune-mediated injury, cytotoxicity, toxic metabolite accumulation, gut microbial translocation, systemic inflammation, senescence and nodular regenerative hyperplasia. Disease states may use any number of these mechanisms to exert their effect on the liver.

Conclusions

The mechanisms by which liver injury may occur in patients with HIV infection are numerous. Most disease states use multiple mechanisms to cause hepatic injury and fibrosis.

Metabolic clinic for individuals with HIV/AIDS: a commitment and vision to the future of HIV services

One of the biggest current challenges in managing an ageing cohort living with the HIV is handling dyslipidaemia, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Combination antiretroviral therapy decrease mortality and morbidity in HIV patients, but lead to increase in insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, abnormalities of fat distribution and high risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, a metabolic clinic was established for individuals living with HIV in the Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. The clinic meets considerable demands by service users and hence has the potential to be popular. This review focuses on the importance of the development of a metabolic clinic for the purpose of audit, research, teaching and exchange of knowledge between HIV specialists and the metabolic team in the management of complex cases. Therefore, the metabolic clinic should be an integral part of HIV services especially as the cohort of the 'older' HIV population increases.

Metabolic Syndrome After HIV Acquisition in South African Women

BACKGROUND

Noncommunicable diseases are common among chronically infected patients with HIV in the developed world, but little is known about these conditions in African cohorts. We assessed the epidemiology of metabolic syndrome among young South African women during the first 3 years after HIV acquisition.

METHODS

A total of 160 women were followed prospectively in the CAPRISA 002 Acute Infection study. Metabolic syndrome was defined as a constellation of hyperlipidemia, hypertension, hyperglycemia/diabetes, and abdominal obesity. Time trends were assessed using generalized estimation equation models.

RESULTS

Median age was 24 years and body mass index 27 kg/m. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome at infection was 8.7% increasing to 19.2% over 36 months (P = 0.001). The proportion of women with body mass index >30 kg/m increased from 34.4% to 47.7% (P = 0.004), those with abnormal waist circumference and elevated blood pressure increased from 33.5% to 44.3% (P = 0.060) and 23.8% to 43.9% (P < 0.001), respectively. Incidence of metabolic syndrome was 9.13/100 person-years (95% CI: 6.02 to 13.28). Predictors of metabolic syndrome were age (per year increase odds ratio (OR) = 1.12; 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.16), time postinfection (per year OR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.92), family history of diabetes (OR = 3.13; 95% CI: 1.71 to 5.72), and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B*81:01 allele (OR = 2.95; 95% CI: 1.21 to 7.17), whereas any HLA-B*57 or B*58:01 alleles were protective (OR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.77). HIV-1 RNA (OR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.62 to 1.27) and CD4 count (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 0.95 to 1.11) did not predict metabolic syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

The high burden of metabolic conditions in young South African HIV-infected women highlights the need to integrate noncommunicable disease and HIV care programs. Interventions to prevent cardiovascular disease must start at HIV diagnosis, rather than later during the disease course.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in HIV-infected patients naive to antiretroviral therapy or receiving a first-line treatment

BACKGROUND

The combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has dramatically improved the life expectancy of patients with HIV infection, but may lead to several long-term metabolic abnormalities. However, data about the frequency of metabolic syndrome (MS) in HIV-infected people vary considerably across different observational studies.

METHODS

The prevalence of MS among HIV-infected patients was evaluated by a cross-sectional study conducted among subjects naive to cART or receiving the first antiretroviral regimen and referring to our Clinics from January 2015 to December 2015. The diagnosis of MS was made based on the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III), and International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria.

RESULTS

The study recruited 586 patients: 98 naive to cART and 488 under the first antiretroviral treatment. The prevalence of MS, according to NCEP-ATP III criteria, was significantly higher among treated patients than among naive ones (20.9% vs. 7.1%; p = 0.014). The most frequently reported components of MS among treated patients were high triglycerides (44.3%), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (41.1%), and hypertension (19.7%). On multivariate analysis, long duration of HIV infection, low nadir of CD4 lymphocytes, high body mass index, current use of one protease inhibitor, and long duration of cART were significantly associated with a higher risk of MS, while current use of one integrase inhibitor was significantly associated with a lower risk of MS.

CONCLUSIONS

The non-negligible prevalence of MS among HIV-infected patients under cART requires a careful and periodic monitoring of its components, with particular attention to dyslipidemia and hypertension.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in patients with HIV

Liver disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among people with HIV, and in this era of safer and more effective hepatitis C therapy, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) could soon emerge as the most common liver disease in this population. NAFLD is common among patients with HIV, and might be more likely to progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NAFLD-related fibrosis or cirrhosis in these patients than in individuals without HIV. Several mechanisms of NAFLD pathogenesis are postulated to explain the disease severity in patients with HIV; these mechanisms include the influence of the gut microbiome, and also metabolic, genetic, and immunological factors. Although treatment strategies are currently based on modification of NAFLD risk factors, many new drugs are now in clinical trials, including trials specifically in patients with HIV. Thus, the identification and risk-stratification of patients with HIV and NAFLD are becoming increasingly important for accurately counselling of these patients regarding their prognosis and for establishing the most appropriate disease-altering therapy.

Adiponectin, Leptin and Inflammatory Markers in HIV-associated Metabolic Syndrome in Children and Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is more common in HIV-infected adults and children than in the general population. Adipocytokines and inflammatory markers may contribute to the pathophysiology of this condition and could be useful indices for monitoring MetS. The objective of this study was to provide information on the prevalence of MetS and investigate the role of adipocytokines and other biomarkers in this syndrome in HIV-infected pediatric patients.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2013 and March 2014 in the outpatient clinics of 2 tertiary pediatric referral hospitals. Fifty-four HIV-infected children and adolescents were included. MetS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation and modified National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Measurements included anthropometry, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting lipids, glucose and insulin, adiponectin, leptin, interleukin-6, vitamin D and C-reactive protein and clinical lipodystrophy assessment.

RESULTS

Among the total, 3.7% of patients met the International Diabetes Federation criteria for MetS and 7.4% met the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. C-reactive protein and leptin levels were significantly higher and adiponectin level significantly lower in patients with MetS, regardless of the criteria used. Insulin resistance was observed in 40.7% of patients; abnormal quantitative insulin sensitivity check index values were found in 88.9%. Eighteen patients (33.3%) had vitamin D deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of MetS was similar to that observed in larger cohorts of HIV-infected patients in our setting. Adipocytokine dysregulation seems to be related to MetS in HIV-infected children. A high percentage of patients showed insulin resistance, which should be strictly monitored.

Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome Among People Living with HIV in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a group of components associated with cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of MS in the HIV population is increasing in epidemic proportions globally. However, the magnitude and characteristics of MS are not fully elucidated in developing countries. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the prevalence of MS and its components among people living with HIV (PLWH) in developing countries. Searches were carried out in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, other web sources, and by hand search. Articles were restricted to English language studies reporting on the prevalence of MS among PLWH in developing countries. Eighteen articles were included in the review. The studies were divided into Africa, South America, and Asia regions. The most frequent criterion used in the review was the National Cholesterol Education Program: Adult Treatment Program III 2001 definition. The prevalence of MS among PLWH ranged from 8.4% to 47% across the developing regions and comparable to the overall prevalence across the developed regions (7.8-52.2%). The mean prevalence was 30.5%, 21.5%, and 21.4% in Africa, Asia, and South America, respectively. The most frequent component observed was low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (50.1%). This systematic review provides an essential overview on the distribution of MS in the HIV population across the developing regions. As these prevalences were comparably high in the developed regions, this review highlights the need for more robust research in developing countries.

The cardiovascular risk management for people living with HIV in Europe: how well are we doing?

OBJECTIVES

HIV has become a chronic condition associated with comorbidities. We investigated cardiovascular risk and risk modification in a European HIV cohort.

METHODS

EuroSIDA patients (from 1 January 2000) for whom cardiovascular risk could be calculated (DAD risk equation) were included in the analysis. Moderate-to-high risk was defined as 5-year cardiovascular risk more than 5% and risk modification as two measurements meeting the European AIDS Clinical Society guidelines. Factors associated with risk development and modifications were investigated using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Of 8762 individuals, 32.1% were hypertensive, 45.0% had high cholesterol, 47.4% were current smokers, and 27.1% were overweight. A total of 1504 (17.2%) had a 5-year cardiovascular risk of more than 5%. Of 7258 individuals with a 5-year risk less than 5%, 1905 (26.2%) developed cardiovascular risk more than 5% (6.53/100 person-years). These patients were more likely to be older, men, living in East Europe, with traditional cardiovascular risk factors. MSM with longer exposure to antiretroviral therapy, low CD4 nadir, higher current CD4 and prior AIDs events were more likely to develop cardiovascular risk. Those on antihypertensive treatment and living in central Europe were less likely to develop cardiovascular risk. Of those clinically indicated for risk modification, 1205 of 2077 (58.0%) successfully modified BP; 1283 of 3919 (32.8%) stopped smoking; 277 of 1394 (19.9%) modified cholesterol and 543 of 2163 (25.1%) reduced their BMI. There was variation in modification of individual risk factors, by sex, age, HIV-related factors and region of follow-up. Risk modification for BP and smoking improved over time (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Cardiovascular risk was common. More than half modified their cardiovascular risk, and this improved over time.

Hypertension Is a Key Feature of the Metabolic Syndrome in Subjects Aging with HIV

With widespread and effective antiretroviral therapy, the life expectancy in the HIV population has dramatically improved over the last two decades. Consequently, as patients are aging with HIV, other age-related comorbidities, such as metabolic disturbances and cardiovascular disease (CVD), have emerged as important causes of morbidity and mortality. An overrepresentation of traditional cardiovascular risk factors (RF), toxicities associated with long exposure to antiretroviral therapy, together with residual chronic inflammation and immune activation associated with HIV infection are thought to predispose to these metabolic complications and to the excess risk of CVD observed in the HIV population. The metabolic syndrome (MS) represents a clustering of RF for CVD that includes abdominal obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Hypertension is a prevalent feature of the MS in HIV, in particular in the aging population, and constitutes an important RF for CVD. Physicians should screen their patients for metabolic and cardiovascular risk at the regular visits to reduce MS and the associated CVD risk among people aging with HIV, since many of RF are under-diagnosed and under-treated conditions. Interventions to reduce these RF can include lifestyle changes and pharmacological interventions such as antihypertensive and lipid-lowering therapy, and treatment of glucose metabolism disturbances. Changes in antiretroviral therapy to more metabolic neutral antiretroviral drugs may also be considered.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome among HIV-infected patients in Ghana: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in HIV-infected patients is very limited in the Ghanaian setting and may vary across the globe by the different study populations and criteria used.

AIM

We investigated the prevalence of MetS among HIV-infected patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at the St. Dominic Hospital, Akwatia, Ghana.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited 433 HIV-infected patients (294 on HAART and 139 HAART-naïve) from the period of February 2013 to December 2013. Information on the demographic, clinical, anthropometric characteristics were obtained and lipid profile for each patient was assessed. MetS was assessed based on the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III), World Health Organization (WHO) and International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MetS was 24.5% according to WHO criteria, 48.3% by NCEP-ATP III criteria, and 42.3% by IDF criteria. In general, participants on HAART were significantly associated with higher prevalence of MetS compared to those without HAART (P < 0.05) irrespective of the criteria used. Prevalence of clustering components of MetS was significantly higher among those on HAART when risk scores of 2 and above were used compared with those not on HAART (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HAART recipient developed MetS as indicated by dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, and abnormal body fat. It is incumbent on health giver to incorporate MetS assessment as a part of treatment and management plan in patients receiving HAART.

The Effect of a Community-Based Exercise Program on Inflammation, Metabolic Risk, and Fitness Levels Among Persons Living with HIV/AIDS

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic remains a top national health priority. Chronic inflammation may be a critical component in the disease course of HIV as C-reactive protein (CRP) is elevated and associated with increased mortality. This study examined the effect of 3 months of combined aerobic and resistance exercise training among a diverse cohort of HIV-infected men and women. The fixed effect of time for CRP was found to be non-significant (F[1,57.3] = 1.7, p = 0.19). There was a significant fixed effect for time for upper body (F[1,51.6] = 18.1, p < 0.05) and lower body strength (F[1,48.0] = 15.7, p < 0.05) and significant declines in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.002) and waist circumference (p = 0.027). Though levels of CRP were not impacted after 3 months training, participants demonstrated a significant increase in muscular strength as well as beneficial changes in metabolic risk factors. Future studies should focus on determining the optimal exercise intervention length and mode to reduce inflammation among individuals living with HIV.

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.

Genome-wide association mapping and pathway analysis of leukosis incidence in a US Holstein cattle population

Bovine leukosis virus is an oncogenic virus that infects B cells, causing bovine leukosis disease. This disease is known to have a negative impact on dairy cattle production and, because no treatment or vaccine is available, finding a possible genetic solution is important. Our objective was to perform a comprehensive genetic analysis of leukosis incidence in dairy cattle. Data on leukosis occurrence, pedigree and molecular information were combined into multitrait GBLUP models with milk yield (MY) and somatic cell score (SCS) to estimate genetic parameters and to perform whole-genome scans and pathway analysis. Leukosis data were available for 11 554 Holsteins daughters of 3002 sires from 112 herds in 16 US states. Genotypes from a 60K SNP panel were available for 961 of those bulls as well as for 2039 additional bulls. Heritability for leukosis incidence was estimated at about 8%, and the genetic correlations of leukosis disease incidence with MY and SCS were moderate at 0.18 and 0.20 respectively. The genome-wide scan indicated that leukosis is a complex trait, possibly modulated by many genes. The gene set analysis identified many functional terms that showed significant enrichment of genes associated with leukosis. Many of these terms, such as G-Protein Coupled Receptor Signaling Pathway, Regulation of Nucleotide Metabolic Process and different calcium-related processes, are known to be related to retrovirus infection. Overall, our findings contribute to a better understanding of the genetic architecture of this complex disease. The functional categories associated with leukosis may be useful in future studies on fine mapping of genes and development of dairy cattle breeding strategies.

A Meta-Analysis of the Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence in the Global HIV-Infected Population

BACKGROUND

Cardio-metabolic risk factors are of increasing concern in HIV-infected individuals, particularly with the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the subsequent rise in longevity. However, the prevalence of cardio-metabolic abnormalities in this population and the differential contribution, if any, of HIV specific factors to their distribution, are poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the global prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in HIV-infected populations, its variation by the different diagnostic criteria, severity of HIV infection, ART used and other major predictive characteristics.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search on major databases for original research articles published between 1998 and 2015. The pooled overall prevalence as well as by specific groups and subgroups were computed using random effects models.

RESULTS

A total of 65 studies across five continents comprising 55094 HIV-infected participants aged 17-73 years (median age 41 years) were included in the final meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of MS according to the following criteria were: ATPIII-2001:16.7% (95%CI: 14.6-18.8), IDF-2005: 18% (95%CI: 14.0-22.4), ATPIII-2004-2005: 24.6% (95%CI: 20.6-28.8), Modified ATPIII-2005: 27.9% (95%CI: 6.7-56.5), JIS-2009: 29.6% (95%CI: 22.9-36.8), and EGIR: 31.3% (95%CI: 26.8-36.0). By some MS criteria, the prevalence was significantly higher in women than in men (IDF-2005: 23.2% vs. 13.4, p = 0.030), in ART compared to non-ART users (ATPIII-2001: 18.4% vs. 11.8%, p = 0.001), and varied significantly by participant age, duration of HIV diagnosis, severity of infection, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) use and date of study publication. Across criteria, there were significant differences in MS prevalence by sub-groups such as in men, the Americas, older publications, regional studies, younger adults, smokers, ART-naïve participants, NNRTIs users, participants with shorter duration of diagnosed infection and across the spectrum of HIV severity. Substantial heterogeneities across and within criteria were not fully explained by major study characteristics, while evidence of publication bias was marginal.

CONCLUSIONS

The similar range of MS prevalence in the HIV-infected and general populations highlights the common drivers of this condition. Thus, cardio-metabolic assessments need to be routinely included in the holistic management of the HIV-infected individual. Management strategies recommended for MS in the general population will likely provide similar benefits in the HIV-infected.

Complement Component 3 Is Associated with Metabolic Comorbidities in Older HIV-Positive Adults

Our objective was to evaluate the association of plasma inflammatory biomarkers with MetS in an older population of treated HIV-infected (HIV(+)) as compared to age-matched HIV-negative (HIV(-)) adults. This was done in a retrospective observational study. Plasma concentrations of complement component 3 (C3), cystatin C, fibroblast growth factor 1, interleukin 6, oxidized LDL, soluble RAGE, soluble CD163, soluble CD14, and osteopontin were measured in 79 HIV(+) participants on combination antiretroviral treatment (cART) with a suppressed HIV viral load and 47 HIV(-) participants with a median age of 59 (range 50 to 79). Outcomes were individual MetS components (hypertension, type II diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity) and MetS. Covariates were screened for inclusion in multivariable models. Odds ratios are reported per 50 mg/dl increase in C3. In the HIV(+) group, higher C3 levels were associated with MetS (OR 3.19, p = 0.004), obesity (OR 2.02, p = 0.01), type II diabetes (OR 1.93, p = 0.02), and at a trend level with dyslipidemia (OR 1.87, p = 0.07) and hypertension (OR 1.66, p = 0.09). C3 levels were significantly higher in HIV(+) participants with MetS compared to those without MetS (p = 0.002). C3 was higher among HIV(+) patients with three or four MetS components as compared to those with one or two (p = 0.04) and those with none (p = 0.002). No associations were found between C3 and the outcomes for HIV(-) participants. C3 is strongly associated with both MetS and MetS components in an older HIV(+) sample on cART compared to HIV(-) controls. C3 warrants further investigation as a marker of cardiometabolic risk among persons aging with HIV.

Role of liver transplantation in human immunodeficiency virus positive patients

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality amongst human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals. Chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, drug-induced hepatotoxicity related to combined anti-retro-viral therapy, alcohol related liver disease and non-alcohol related fatty liver disease appear to be the leading causes. It is therefore, anticipated that more HIV-positive patients with ESLD will present as potential transplant candidates. HIV infection is no longer a contraindication to liver transplantation. Key transplantation outcomes such as rejection and infection rates as well as medium term graft and patient survival match those seen in the non-HIV infected patients in the absence of co-existing HCV infection. HIV disease does not seem to be negatively impacted by transplantation. However, HIV-HCV co-infection transplant outcomes remain suboptimal due to recurrence. In this article, we review the key challenges faced by this patient cohort in the pre- and post-transplant period.

Telmisartan and Insulin Resistance in HIV (TAILoR): protocol for a dose-ranging phase II randomised open-labelled trial of telmisartan as a strategy for the reduction of insulin resistance in HIV-positive individuals on combination antiretroviral therapy

INTRODUCTION

Telmisartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker, has beneficial effects on insulin resistance and cardiovascular health in non-HIV populations. This trial will evaluate whether telmisartan can reduce insulin resistance in HIV-positive individuals on combination antiretroviral therapy.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a phase II, multicentre, randomised, open-labelled, dose-ranging trial of telmisartan in 336 HIV-positive individuals over a period of 48 weeks. The trial will use an adaptive design to inform the optimal dose of telmisartan. Patients will be randomised initially 1:1:1:1 to receive one of the three doses of telmisartan (20, 40 and 80 mg) or no intervention (control). An interim analysis will be performed when half of the planned maximum of 336 patients have been followed up for at least 24 weeks. The second stage of the study will depend on the results of interim analysis. The primary outcome measure is a reduction in insulin resistance (as measured by Homeostatic Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR)) in telmisartan treated arm(s) after 24 weeks of treatment in comparison with the non-intervention arm. The secondary outcome measures include changes in lipid profile; body fat redistribution (as measured by MRI); plasma and urinary levels of various biomarkers of cardiometabolic and renal health at 12, 24 and 48 weeks. Serious adverse events will be compared between different telmisartan treated dose arm(s) and the control arm.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study, this protocol and related documents have been approved by the National Research Ethics Service Committee North West-Liverpool Central (Ref: 12/NW/0214). On successful completion, study data will be shared with academic collaborators. The findings from TAILoR will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, at scientific conferences, the media and through patient and public involvement.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS

04196/0024/001-0001;

EUDRACT

2012-000935-18;

ISRCTN

51069819.

Safely treating hepatitis C in patients with HIV or hepatitis B virus coinfection

INTRODUCTION

There are several clinical trials and prospective studies which support the use of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-coinfected patients. In this review, the safety of DAAs in HCV patients coinfected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or HIV has been evaluated.

AREAS COVERED

All available prospective studies, clinical trials and congress abstracts in the English language that assessed the safety and efficacy of DAAs in HCV coinfections have been considered.

EXPERT OPINION

The newer DAAs in the treatment of HCV/HIV-coinfected patients resolved major limitations of the first-generation protease inhibitors including complex dosing, poor tolerability and interactions with antiretroviral drugs. There are not yet enough data regarding the safety and efficacy of DAAs in some coinfected patients with comorbidities, nor for pregnant, lactating or pediatric patients. Evaluating the safety and efficacy of these agents in these subgroups with HCV coinfection is recommended for future studies. The role of new direct-acting antiviral-based therapy for the treatment of patients with HCV/HBV coinfection remains to be evaluated.

Comparison of the metabolic effects of ritonavir-boosted darunavir or atazanavir versus raltegravir, and the impact of ritonavir plasma exposure: ACTG 5257

BACKGROUND

Metabolic effects following combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) vary by regimen type. Changes in metabolic effects were assessed following cART in the AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG) A5257 study, and correlated with plasma ritonavir trough concentrations (C24).

METHODS

Treatment-naive adult subjects were randomized to ritonavir-boosted atazanavir or darunavir, or raltegravir-based cART. Changes in lipids and other metabolic outcomes over time were estimated. Differences between arms were estimated with 97.5% confidence intervals and compared using pairwise Student t tests. Associations between ritonavir C24 and lipid changes at week 48 were evaluated via linear regression.

RESULTS

Analyses included 1797 subjects with baseline fasting data. Baseline lipid profiles and metabolic syndrome rates (approximately 21%) were similar across arms. Comparable increases occurred in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with the boosted protease inhibitors (PIs); each PI had greater increases relative to raltegravir (all P ≤ .001 at week 96). Metabolic syndrome incident rates by week 96 (approximately 22%) were not different across arms. Ritonavir C24 was not different by arm (P = .89) (median, 69 ng/mL and 74 ng/mL in the atazanavir and darunavir arms, respectively) and were not associated with changes in lipid measures (all P > .1).

CONCLUSIONS

Raltegravir produced the most favorable lipid profile. Metabolic syndrome rates were high at baseline and increased to the same degree in all arms. Ritonavir C24 was not different in the PI arms and had no relationship with the modest but comparable increases in lipids observed with either atazanavir or darunavir. The long-term clinical significance of the lipid changes noted with the PIs relative to raltegravir deserves further evaluation.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT 00811954.

Comparison of body composition changes between atazanavir/ritonavir and lopinavir/ritonavir each in combination with tenofovir/emtricitabine in antiretroviral-naïve patients with HIV-1 infection

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Antiretroviral drug regimen choice may influence changes in body composition. The objective of this study was to compare changes in body composition between ritonavir-boosted atazanavir (ATV/r) and ritonavir-boosted lopinavir (LPV/r) over 96 weeks using data from a substudy of CASTLE, which compared once-daily ATV/r with twice-daily LPV/r, both in combination with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine in treatment-naïve patients with HIV-1 infection.

METHODS

We examined 224 patients (125 on ATV/r; 99 on LPV/r) at baseline, 48 and 96 weeks using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and computerised tomography.

RESULTS

In the lowest baseline body mass index (BMI) group, there were significantly greater gains at week 96 for ATV/r than for LPV/r in subcutaneous adipose tissue and in visceral adipose tissue (VAT). By week 96, patients with lowest baseline CD4 cell counts on ATV/r had 28 % increases in VAT versus 14 % reductions for patients receiving LPV/r. Those with the lowest baseline BMI on ATV/r had 19 % increases in VAT versus reductions of 5 % for patients on LPV/r. In the highest baseline BMI group, the mean increase in triglycerides was 6 and 70 % in the ATV/r and LPV/r arms, respectively. Compared with baseline, an increase in proportion of patients with high waist circumference (WC)/high triglycerides at 96 weeks was noted in both treatment arms, but this increase was numerically greater with LVP/r (18 %) than with ATV/r (11 %).

CONCLUSION

Truncal fat gains on ATV/r primarily led to increases in WC, which may reflect return to health, while on LPV/r increases in WC and triglycerides occurred. Changes in body composition with antiretroviral therapy are influenced by treatment choice and baseline characteristics.

Clinical, biochemical and histological differences between HIV-associated NAFLD and primary NAFLD: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

There are limited data regarding the clinical, biochemical and liver histological characteristics of patients with HIV-associated nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and whether this entity differs in presentation and severity from primary NAFLD AIM: To examine the clinical and histological differences between HIV-associated NAFLD and primary NAFLD.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional, case-control study comparing patients with HIV-associated NAFLD vs. patients with primary NAFLD. HIV-infected patients were identified from a database of consecutive liver biopsies performed at the University of California at San Diego, over a 13-year period. HIV-infected patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD were selected as cases, after exclusion of other causes of liver disease and hepatic steatosis. Age-sex-matched controls with biopsy-proven primary NAFLD were randomly identified from the same pathology database. All biopsies underwent a standardised, detailed, histological research evaluation by a liver pathologist who was blinded to clinical and case-control status.

RESULTS

Compared to age-sex-matched patients with primary NAFLD (n = 33), patients with HIV-associated NAFLD (n = 33) had significantly higher mean aspartate aminotransferase (P < 0.001), alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.003) and serum triglycerides (P = 0.024). Similarly, compared to age-sex-matched primary NAFLD, patients with HIV-associated NAFLD had significantly higher rates of definite steatohepatitis (37% vs. 63%, P = 0.04), and more features of liver injury, including lobular inflammation (<0.001) and acidophil bodies (<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Compared to age-sex-matched primary NAFLD, HIV-associated NAFLD has increased severity of liver disease and a higher prevalence of NASH.

Managing dyslipidemia in HIV/AIDS patients: challenges and solutions

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic disease associated with dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. In addition, the administration of combination antiretroviral therapy is associated with an increase in the incidence of metabolic risk factors (insulin resistance, lipoatrophy, dyslipidemia, and abnormalities of fat distribution in HIV patients). HIV dyslipidemia is a common problem, and associated with an increase in incidence of cardiovascular disease. Further challenges in the management of HIV dyslipidemia are the presence of diabetes and metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, the risk of diabetes associated with statin administration, age and ethnicity, and early menopause in females. Dyslipidemia in patients with HIV is different from the normal population, due to the fact that HIV increases insulin resistance and HIV treatment not only may induce dyslipidemia but also may interact with lipid-lowering medication. The use of all statins (apart from simvastatin and lovastatin) is safe and effective in HIV dyslipidemia, and the addition of ezetimibe, fenofibrate, fish oil, and niacin can be used in statin-unresponsive HIV dyslipidemia. The management of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease risks associated with HIV is complex, and a certain number of patients may require management in specialist clinics run by specialist physicians in lipid disorders. Future research is needed to address best strategies in the management of hyperlipidemia with HIV infection.

Metabolic syndrome in human immunodeficiency virus-positive subjects: prevalence, phenotype, and related alterations in arterial structure and function

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection itself and highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) have been proposed to be associated with a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome, but, to date, prevalence and phenotype of metabolic syndrome among HIV subjects and the related structural and functional vascular alterations are not conclusively defined.

METHODS

We analyzed the data of 108 HIV-infected subjects without known cardiovascular risk factors: 72 were on HAART (group A, age 46.5±7.5 years, clinical blood pressure 125.7/74.9±11.6/7.8 mmHg) and there 36 in a naïve group (group B, age 40.7±7.9 years, blood pressure 126/75.8±9.8/7.7 mmHg). A total of 224 healthy subjects served as controls (group C, age 44.9±6.9 years, blood pressure 123.7/75.7±9.8/7.1 mmHg). Arterial stiffness was measured by aorto-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV, sfigmocor), and carotid intima media thickness (IMT) was measured by a semiautomatic echotracking system (Esaote-WTS).

RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome was more frequent in HIV-positive subjects than in controls (19.4%, 13.8%, 4.5% for groups A, B, and C; P<0.001), with no significant difference between HAART and naïve. In metabolic syndrome subjects, group A displayed lipid profile alterations more frequently (91%, 50%, 57% for groups A, B, and C; P<0.05), whereas others metabolic syndrome components were equally represented in the three groups. In metabolic syndrome subjects, IMT was similar [556±108, 542±164, and 564±110.4 μm for groups A, B, and C; P=not significant (NS)], whereas PWV was significantly greater in HAART subjects when compared with controls (10.8±1.8, 9.±1.1, 9.3±1 cm/sec for groups A, B, and C; P=0.02 for A vs. C). Moreover, in this group (metabolic syndrome+HAART), PWV was higher than in subjects on HAART but without metabolic syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV subjects showed a higher prevalence and a different pattern of metabolic syndrome components. HAART, more than HIV infection per se, appeared to be responsible for the increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome and arterial function derangement.

Nutrition and the HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome

HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HALS), comprising metabolic and morphological alterations, is a known side effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Evidence for the role of nutrition in the management of the systemic parameters of HALS is currently limited. In the present paper we review the current knowledge base surrounding HALS, focusing particularly on the role of nutrition in mitigating the systemic parameters of the syndrome. Reported prevalence of HALS was found to vary from 9 to 83 % due to lack of a standardised definition, as well as variations in assessment methods and in the study population used. HALS is associated with both morphological (lipoatrophy, lipohypertrophy) and metabolic (dyslipidaemia, glucose intolerance, diabetes, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis) alterations, which may occur singly or in combination, and are associated with an increased risk of CVD. HAART-induced adipocyte inflammation, oxidative stress and macrophage infiltration, as well as altered adipocyte function and mitochondrial toxicity, have been shown to be central to the development of HALS. The adipocyte, therefore, represents a plausible target for treatment. Pharmacological and surgical treatment interventions have shown effect. However, their use is associated with numerous adverse effects and complications. Targeted lifestyle interventions may provide a useful alternative for managing HALS owing to their safety and tolerability. A Mediterranean-style diet has been found to be effective in improving the systemic parameters of HALS. Furthermore, the effects of n-3 PUFA supplementation are encouraging and future randomised controlled trials investigating the beneficial effects of n-3 PUFA in HALS are justified.

Microalbuminuria in HIV disease

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Microalbuminuria is a marker for early kidney disease and cardiovascular risk. The purposes of this study were to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria in an HIV-infected clinic population, to test the predictive value of a single urine albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) to identify persistent microalbuminuria and to examine covariates of microalbuminuria.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of HIV-infected subjects (n = 182) without proteinuria (urine protein/creatinine ratio ≥0.5 g/g), elevated serum creatinine, diabetes, or chronic inflammatory conditions. Subjects completed three research visits within 9 months. Microalbuminuria was defined as the geometric mean ACR of 25-355 mg/g for females and 17-250 mg/g for males.

RESULTS

The prevalence of microalbuminuria was 14%. The negative predictive value of a single urine ACR determination was 98%, whereas the positive predictive value was only 74%. Microalbuminuria was similar among Black (15%) and non-Black (14%) subjects (p = 0.8). Subjects with microalbuminuria were more likely to have hypertension (p = 0.02) and metabolic syndrome (p = 0.03). While duration of HIV infection and the level of HIV viremia were similar between groups, those with microalbuminuria were more likely to have a CD4 count <200 cells/μl (p = 0.0003). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the only significant independent predictors of microalbuminuria were low CD4 count (p = 0.018) and current ritonavir exposure (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of microalbuminuria in an HIV-infected clinic population was similar to earlier reports, and was associated with hypertension and impaired immune function. A single normal ACR determination effectively excludes microalbuminuria, whereas an elevated ACR requires confirmation.

Metabolic syndrome in human immunodeficiency virus positive patients

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients. Prevalence of MetS was compared in patients who were not on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to patients who were on HAART.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy HIV positive cases were studied. Pregnant and lactating women, patients on drugs other than HAART known to cause metabolic abnormalities and those having diabetes or hypertension were excluded. Cases were evaluated for MetS by using National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel-III.

RESULTS

47 cases were on HAART and 23 cases were not on HAART. Fasting Blood Glucose ≥100 mg/dl was present in 28.6% cases, out of whom 27.7% were on HAART and 30.4% were not on HAART (P = 0.8089). 12.9% cases had BP ≥130/≥85 mm Hg, out of whom 14.9% were on HAART and 8.7% were not on HAART (P = 0.4666). 42.9% cases had TG ≥150 mg/dl, out of whom 44.7% were on HAART and 39.1% were not on HAART (P = 0.6894). HDL cholesterol was low (males <40 mg/dl, females <50 mg/dl) in 50% cases, out of whom 55.3% were on HAART and 39.1% were not on HAART (P = 0.2035).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of MetS was 20%. Majority of patients had only one component of MetS (32.9%). Low HDL was present in 50%, followed by raised triglycerides in 42.9%. Waist circumference was not increased in any of the patients. There was no statistically significant difference between those on HAART and those not on HAART in distribution of risk factors and individual components of MetS.

Liver injury in HIV monoinfected patients: should we turn a blind eye to it?

With the advent of combined antiretroviral therapies, liver diseases have emerged as a key issue in the management of HIV infection. In addition to hepatitis co-infection, a large spectrum of liver diseases can affect the prognosis of HIV infection. Acute or progressive hepatic injuries require an accurate diagnosis for a better clinical management. Here, we provide an overview of the main liver diseases associated with HIV infection, which are not covered by the widely documented field of viral hepatitis co-infection.

Management of hepatitis C in HIV and/or HBV co-infected patients

Co-infection with either HIV or HBV in chronic hepatitis C patients is common, since all these viruses share transmission routes and geographical distribution. Interaction between these viruses generally amplifies liver damage, increasing the risk of developing end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. HIV-HCV co-infection is associated with poorer response to antiviral therapy. New antivirals against HCV are eagerly awaited for this population. HBV-HCV dual infections are less common. The principles guiding indication of therapy in monoinfected patients should be followed considering which virus replicates in persons with serological markers of dual HBV-HCV infection. Although there is growing evidence supporting the use of direct acting antivirals (DAA) in dually infected patients with active HCV replication, prospective trials should be conducted to demonstrate their benefit, assessing carefully the rate and clinical consequences of HBV rebounds.

Prevalence and clinical correlates of metabolic syndrome in Nigerians living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

BACKGROUND

Sub-Saharan Africa bears an inordinate burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Reports have shown increased prevalence of clustering of cardiovascular risk factors referred to as metabolic syndrome in treatment-naïve patients and patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). In view of the fact that metabolic syndrome is a heterogeneous disorder with substantial variability in the prevalence and component traits within and across populations and the dearth of publications on the prevalence and clinical correlates of metabolic syndrome in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Nigeria, this study was carried out to determine the prevalence and clinical correlates of metabolic syndrome among an HIV-infected outpatient population using the National Cholesterol Education Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III), the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and the Joint Interim Statement (JIS) definitions. We also sought to determine if HAART use and CD4 count level were associated with metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved 291 (95 men, 196 women) consecutive PLWHA. Anthropometry, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, and lipid profile values were determined.

RESULTS

The prevalence rates of metabolic syndrome according to the ATP III, IDF, and JIS criteria were 12.7%, 17.2%, and 21.0%, respectively. Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with female gender (all definitions), body mass index (all definitions), increasing age, and CD4 count (IDF definition). There was no significant association between metabolic syndrome and HAART. The concordance [kappa coefficient (κ)] between the definitions of metabolic syndrome varied between 0.583 and 0.878.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome varied with the criteria used and metabolic syndrome correlates with traditional cardiovascular risk factors rather than HAART-related factors.