Decrease of vitamin D concentration in patients with HIV infection on a non nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-containing regimen

Evaluation of Adherence to Guideline-Based Bone Mineral Density Screening in Veterans with HIV

People with HIV (PWH) have a higher prevalence of bone mineral density (BMD) loss compared to people without HIV. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) recommends BMD screening through dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in PWH starting at age 50. We aimed to evaluate adherence to this recommendation in a population of Veterans with HIV (VWH). Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of VWH followed from 2014 to 2018 at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Infectious Diseases Clinic, Houston, Texas. We collected data through registry extraction and chart review. We calculated the percentage of VWH with timely BMD loss screening by DXA within 5 years of turning 50. Secondary outcomes included prevalence of osteopenia, osteoporosis, and vitamin D deficiency. We included data from 1,243 VWH. Their average age was 52 years (range 18-86). Most were male (95%), and 59% were black. Of the 346 VWH who turned 50 years old during the study period, 78 (22.5%) underwent DXA within 5 years. Of these, 42 (53.8%) had normal BMD, 28 (35.9%) had osteopenia, and 8 (10.3%) had osteoporosis. Nine hundred ninety-three (79.9%) VWH had available 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels; of these, 453 (45%) had normal levels, 304 (30.6%) had vitamin D insufficiency, 184 (18.5%) had vitamin D deficiency, and 52 (5.2%) had severe vitamin D deficiency. Fewer than 25% of eligible VWH underwent timely BMD loss screening by DXA per IDSA guidelines. Almost half of screened VWH showed evidence of BMD loss. Although limited by lack of follow-up and fracture data, this study emphasizes the importance of improving BMD loss screening in this vulnerable population.

Vitamin D Assessment Over 48 Weeks in Treatment-Naive HIV Individuals Starting Lopinavir/Ritonavir Monotherapy

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D deficiency is common in HIV population and has been associated with increased comorbidity risk and poor immunologic status.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir monotherapy on changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] over 48 weeks.

METHODS

Thirty-four treatment-naïve HIV individuals initiating lopinavir/ritonavir monotherapy and receiving clinical care from private practice in Houston, Texas, were included. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels from stored plasma samples collected from IMANI-2 pilot study at both baseline and 48 weeks were analyzed using LC-MS assays. Mean 25(OH)D at baseline and 48 weeks were compared using paired t-tests. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate factors associated with changes in 25(OH)D. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine the effect of vitamin D status and covariates on CD4 cell count recovery.

RESULTS

Mean 25(OH)D was significantly higher at 48 weeks (26.3 ng/mL (SD + 14.9); p=0.0003) compared to baseline (19.8 ng/mL (SD +12.1), with fewer individuals having vitamin D deficiency (41.2%) and severe deficiency (11.8%). Both body mass index and baseline CD4 cell count were significant independent covariates associated with 25(OH)D changes over 48 weeks. Baseline vitamin D status did not affect CD4 cell count recovery. However, in a 24-week multivariate analysis, current tobacco use was significantly associated with a decreased odds of CD4 cell count recovery (AOR 0.106, 95% CI 0.018-0.606; p=0.012).

CONCLUSION

Individuals treated with lopinavir/ritonavir monotherapy had significantly higher 25(OH)D after 48 weeks. Current tobacco users had significantly diminished CD4 cell count recovery after starting treatment, warranting further clinical investigation.

Vitamin D Status Modulates Inflammatory Response in HIV+ Subjects: Evidence for Involvement of Autophagy and TG2 Expression in PBMC

Conflicting results on the involvement of vitamin D deficiency in inflammatory and immune response in HIV+ subjects are reported. We aimed to characterize the possible influence of vitamin D status on changes in expression of tissue transglutaminase gene (TGM2) and other genes involved in inflammatory response and autophagy in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from HIV+ subjects. HIV+ subjects (n = 57) under antiretroviral therapy (ART) and healthy controls (n = 40) were enrolled. mRNA levels of 1-alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), TGM2, microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3), autophagy-related 5 homolog (ATG5), and Beclin 1 (BECN1) were quantified by real-time PCR. In HIV+ subjects, 25(OH)D₃ plasma levels were negatively correlated with time since HIV diagnosis. In PBMC from HIV+ subjects, increases in gene expression of TNF-α and IFN-γ in comparison to controls were observed. The highest increase in TNF-α transcripts was observed in HIV+ subjects with deficient 25(OH)D₃ levels. Autophagy-related genes LC3, ATG5, and BECN1 were down-regulated in HIV+ subjects. Moreover, TGM2 transcripts were up-regulated in PBMC from HIV+ subjects with 25(OH)D3 deficiency. Changes observed in PBMC from HIV+ subjects appeared to be dependent on vitamin D status. The present results suggest that vitamin D deficiency is associated with changes in the expression of markers of inflammation and autophagy, resulting in immune cell dysfunction.

Vitamin D status, nutrition and growth in HIV-infected mothers and HIV-exposed infants and children in Botswana

BACKGROUND

Poor vitamin D status is a global health problem and common in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in high-income countries. There is less evidence on prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and nutrition and growth in HIV-infected and -exposed children in low- and middle-income countries.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the vitamin D status in Batswana HIV-infected mothers and their children, differences among HIV-infected mothers and between HIV-exposed and -infected infants and children, and associations between vitamin D and disease-related outcomes, nutrition, and growth.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of HIV+ mothers and HIV-exposed infants and unrelated children (1-7.9 years). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was measured, among other nutritional indicators, for mothers, infants and children. Vitamin D status for HIV-infected mothers and children, and an immune panel was assessed. History of HIV anti-retroviral medications and breastfeeding were obtained. Data were collected prior to universal combination antiretroviral therapy in pregnancy.

RESULTS

Mothers (n = 36) had a mean serum 25(OH)D of 37.2±12.4ng/mL; 11% had insufficient (<20ng/mL), 17% moderately low (20.0-29.9ng/mL) and 72% sufficient (≥30ng/mL) concentrations. No infants (n = 36) or children (n = 48) were vitamin D insufficient; 22% of HIV- and no HIV+ infants had moderately low concentrations and 78% of HIV- and 100% of HIV+ infants had sufficient status, 8% of HIV- and no HIV+ children had moderately low concentrations and 92% of HIV- and 100% HIV+ children had sufficient concentrations. HIV+ children had significantly lower length/height Z scores compared to HIV- children. Length/height Z score was positively correlated with serum 25(OH)D in all children (r = 0.33, p = 0.023), with a stronger correlation in the HIV+ children (r = 0.47 p = 0.021). In mothers, serum 25(OH)D was positively associated with CD4% (r = 0.40, p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Results showed a low prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in Botswana. Growth was positively correlated with vitamin D status in HIV-exposed children, and HIV+ children had poorer linear growth than HIV- children.

The Potential Protective Role of Vitamin D Supplementation on HIV-1 Infection

HIV infection remains a global and public health issue with the incidence increasing in some countries. Despite the fact that combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has decreased mortality and increased the life expectancy of HIV-infected individuals, non-AIDS conditions, mainly those associated with a persistent inflammatory state, have emerged as important causes of morbidity, and mortality despite effective antiviral therapy. One of the most common comorbidities in HIV-1 patients is Vitamin D (VitD) insufficiency, as VitD is a hormone that, in addition to its physiological role in mineral metabolism, has pleiotropic effects on immune regulation. Several reports have shown that VitD levels decrease during HIV disease progression and correlate with decreased survival rates, highlighting the importance of VitD supplementation during infection. An extensive review of 29 clinical studies of VitD supplementation in HIV-infected patients showed that regardless of cART, when VitD levels were increased to normal ranges, there was a decrease in inflammation, markers associated with bone turnover, and the risk of secondary hyperparathyroidism while the anti-bacterial response was increased. Additionally, in 3 of 7 studies, VitD supplementation led to an increase in CD4+ T cell count, although its effect on viral load was inconclusive since most patients were on cART. Similarly, previous evidence from our laboratory has shown that VitD can reduce the infection of CD4+ T cells in vitro. The effect of VitD supplementation on other HIV-associated conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, dyslipidemia or hypertension, warrants further exploration. Currently, the available evidence suggests that there is a potential role for VitD supplementation in people living with HIV-1, however, comprehensive studies are required to define an adequate supplementation protocol for these individuals.

Serum Vitamin D is Differentially Associated with Socioemotional Adjustment in Early School-Aged Ugandan Children According to Perinatal HIV Status and In Utero/Peripartum Antiretroviral Exposure History

An impact of vitamin D in neurocognitive function has been theorized but it remains unknown whether vitamin-D insufficiency (VDI) is associated with worse socio-emotional adjustment (SEA) in vulnerable early school-aged children. This study examines the thesis that deficits in SEA are related to VDI using longitudinal data from 254 children that are perinatally HIV-infected (PHIV), exposed-uninfected (HEU), or unexposed-uninfected (HUU). In utero/peripartum antiretroviral (IPA) exposure was established per medical record documentation of biological mother’s ART regimen in pregnancy. Four caregiver-reported age- and sex-standardized measures of SEA were obtained at months 0, 6, and 12 for dependent children aged 6–10 years: externalizing problems (EPC), internalizing problems (IPC), behavioral symptoms index (BSI), and adaptive skills index (ASI). VDI was highly prevalent (74%, n = 188), and its association with change in SEA measures over 12 months varied by HIV-status (VDI*HIV, all p-values < 0.03). There was further variation in relationship of vitamin-D to SEA by IPA among PHIV (for ASI, BSI, and EPC, vitamin-D*IPA, p-value ≤ 0.01) and HEU (for BSI and EPC, vitamin-D*IPA, p-value ≤ 0.04). Among HUU, BSI (β = −0.32, 95% CI: −0.50, −0.13), IPC (β = −0.28, 95% CI: −0.47, −0.09), and EPC (β = −0.20, 95% CI: −0.37, −0.02) all declined moderately per quartile increment in VD. Among PHIV, on the one hand higher vitamin D predicted ASI gains (moderate vs. low VD, β = 0.52, p = 0.002), but this protective association was absent for BSI, EPC, and IPC (β = 0.36–0.77, p < 0.05). In absence of IPA-exposure, increasing vitamin-D predicted declines in BSI and EPC (moderate vs. low Vitamin D, β = −0.56 to −0.71, p ≤ 0.02) among HEU. However, given IPA exposure among HEU, higher VDI predicted moderate elevation in BSI (β = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.78) and IPC (β = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.92). Interaction between VD and IPA exposure for SEA outcomes among HEU and PHIV children warrants further investigation. The vitamin-D associated SEA improvement among HUU and HEU without IPA exposure suggests vitamin-D supplementation may remediate behavioral and adaptive deficits in this groups.

Higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations are associated with active pulmonary tuberculosis in hospitalised HIV infected patients in a low income tropical setting: a cross sectional study

Background

The inherent risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) in HIV- infected individuals is further enhanced by hypovitaminosis D. Interventions that offset HIV-associated immune deterioration potentially arrest disease progression and incidence of opportunistic infections including TB. Despite conflicting reports on association between vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and risk of TB, vitamin D (VD) supplementation remains a promising intervention.

Methods

We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study on 145 HIV⁺/pulmonary TB⁺ (PTB) and 139 HIV⁺/PTB⁻ hospitalised patients to investigate association of vitamin D status and risk of PTB. Stratified random sampling was used to select archived serum specimens from participants enrolled in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) conducted to investigate the impact of using a point-of-care urine lipoarabinomannan strip test for TB diagnosis. PTB status was confirmed using sputum smear microscopy, culture or GeneXpert MTB/RIF. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH) D] concentrations were assayed by competitive chemiluminescent immunoassay prior to commencement of anti-TB treatment. Effect of VD status on duration of hospital stay and patient outcomes on follow up at 8 weeks were also investigated. Median serum 25(OH) D concentrations were compared using Mann-Whitney test and covariates of serum VD status were assessed using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall VDD prevalence in the cohort was 40.9% (95% CI: 35.1–46.8). Median serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly higher in HIV⁺/PTB⁺ group (25.3 ng/ml, IQR:18.0–33.7) compared to the HIV⁺/PTB⁻ group (20.4 ng/ml, IQR:14.6–26.9), p = 0.0003. Patients with serum 25(OH) D concentration ≥ 30 ng/ml were 1.9 times more likely to be PTB⁺ compared to those with serum 25(OH) D concentrations < 30 ng/ml (odds ratio (OR) 1.91; 95% CI 1.1–3.2). PTB-related death was associated with higher odds of having 25(OH) D levels≥30 ng/ml. Age, gender, CD4⁺ count, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) status, efavirenz based cART regimen and length of hospital stay were not associated with vitamin D status.

Conclusions

The finding of an association between higher serum 25(OH) D concentrations and active PTB and TB-related mortality among hospitalised HIV-infected patients in the present study is at variance with the commonly reported association of hypovitaminosis and susceptibility to TB. Our findings though, are in concordance with a small pool of reports from other settings.

Vitamin D supplementation, bone turnover, and inflammation in HIV-infected patients

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether vitamin D supplementation could be associated with a modification of inflammatory markers and bone turnover in HIV-1-infected patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients who participated in an initial survey in 2010 and who were followed in the same department were included in a new study in 2012. Between 2010 and 2012, vitamin D supplementation was offered to patients presenting with hypovitaminosis D as per appropriate guidelines. Clinical examinations were performed, and fasting blood samples were taken for inflammation and bone marker evaluations.

RESULTS

Of the 263 patients who participated in the 2010 study, 198 were included in the 2012 study. Hypovitaminosis D was observed in 47% (36/77) of participants supplemented as per appropriate guidelines, in 78% (75/97) of transiently or incompletely supplemented participants, and in 71% (17/24) of non-supplemented participants (mainly because vitamin D levels in 2010 were normal). No significant correlation between vitamin D supplementation and the 2-year inflammation outcome (IL-6 and hsCRP) or C-terminal telopeptide levels was observed. However, a decrease in IL6 levels over the 2 years significantly correlated with reaching a normal vitamin D level (OR=0.89 per+1pg/mL IL6 increase, 95% CI=0.81-0.97, P=0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin D supplementation decreases the risk of hypovitaminosis D but does not decrease the risk of inflammation nor bone turnover, unless normal 25-OH vitamin D levels are reached.

Bone mineral density and vitamin D concentration: the challenges in taking care of children and adolescents infected with HIV

BACKGROUND

The increase in life expectancy for patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has resulted in health complications related to a chronic disease.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prevalence of bone mineral density (BMD) alterations and vitamin D concentrations in HIV-infected children and adolescents and to verify the variations in those parameters during a 12-month interval.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study with a dual period of evaluation was conducted in 57 patients perinatally HIV-infected and one patient with sexual abuse in early infancy. Demographic, anthropometric, pubertal stage, viral load, T CD4+ cell count and antiretroviral therapy were evaluated. Biochemical tests and total body (TB) and lumbar spine (L1-L4) bone density evaluations by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were performed. Calcium or vitamin D supplements were prescribed if reduction in BMD or deficiency for vitamin D was detected.

RESULTS

58 patients (ages 5.4-18.3 years; 60.3% girls) were included (T0); 55 patients were reevaluated after 12 (±3) months (T1). Low bone mass for chronological age was found in 6/58 (10.4%) and 6/55(10.9%) patients at T0 and at T1, respectively. There was no statistical relationship between z-scores for BMD (BMD z-score) and the variables sex, fracture history, family history of osteoporosis, physical activity and pubertal stage. There was a relation between BMD z-score alterations for TB and HIV viral load at T1 (p=0.016). There was no association between duration or classes of antiretroviral therapy and bone density. The mean value of vitamin D in T0 was 23.43ng/mL±2.015 and in T1 22.1ng/mL±0.707 and considered insufficient levels for this population.

CONCLUSION

Patients infected with HIV are at risk for BMD alterations and lower vitamin D serum concentrations; both of these variables should be evaluated at routine examinations in order to improve both prevention and therapeutic planning.

Effects of cholecalciferol supplementation on serum and urinary vitamin D metabolites and binding protein in HIV-infected youth

Vitamin D insufficiency is widespread in HIV-infected patients. HIV and/or antiretroviral therapy (ART), particularly efavirenz (EFV), may interfere with vitamin D metabolism. However, few data from randomized, controlled trials exist. Here, we investigate changes in vitamin D metabolites and binding protein (VDBP) after 6 months of supplementation in a randomized, active-control, double-blind trial investigating 2 different monthly cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) doses [60,000 (medium) or 120,000 (high) IU/month] vs. a control arm of 18,000 IU/month in 8-25year old HIV-infected youth on ART with HIV-1 RNA <1000 copies/mL and baseline 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D3) ≤30ng/mL. A matched healthy uninfected group was enrolled in a similar parallel study for comparison. Changes after 6 months were analyzed as intent-to-treat within/between groups [control group (low dose) vs. combined supplementation doses (medium+high)]. At 6 months, 55% vs. 82% of subjects in control and supplementation groups, respectively, reached 25(OH)D3 ≥30ng/mL (P=0.01) with no difference between medium and high doses (both 82% ≥30ng/mL). There were few differences for those on EFV vs. no-EFV, except serum VDBP decreased in EFV-treated subjects (both within- and between-groups P≤0.01). There were no significant differences between the HIV-infected vs. healthy uninfected groups. The major finding of the present study is that cholecalciferol supplementation (60,000 or 120,000 IU/month) effectively raises serum 25(OH)D3 in the majority of HIV-infected subjects, regardless of EFV use. Notably, response to supplementation was similar to that of uninfected subjects.

Validation Protocol of Vitamin D Supplementation in Patients with HIV-Infection

Hypovitaminosis D and secondary hyperparathyroidism are frequent among HIV-infected patients. As there are no data about the best supplementation therapy both in treatment and in maintenance, we conducted an observational study of 300 HIV-infected patients for whom vitamin D and parathormone (PTH) had been measured in order to validate a protocol of vitamin D supplementation in patients with HIV-infection. Patients with vitamin D deficiency (defined as 25(OH)D < 10 ng/mL), insufficiency (defined as 25(OH)D < 20 ng/mL), or hyperparathyroidism (PTH > 65 pg/mL) were supplemented with cholecalciferol 16.000IU (0.266 mg) weekly (if deficiency) or fortnightly (if insufficiency or high PTH levels). Rates of normalization of 25(OH)D (levels above 20 ng/mL) and PTH levels (<65 pg/mL) were analyzed. Multivariate analysis of factors related to normalization was carried out. With a median follow-up of 2 years, 82.1% of patients with deficiency and 83.9% of cases with insufficiency reached levels above 20 ng/mL. However, only 67.2% of individuals with hyperparathyroidism at baseline reached target levels (<65 pg/mL). Independent factors for not achieving PTH objective were tenofovir (TDF) and protease inhibitors use. In HIV-infected patients with hypovitaminosis, the protocol of cholecalciferol supplementation normalized vitamin D levels regardless of antiretroviral regimen in a high proportion of patients but it was less effective to correct hyperparathyroidism.

Vitamin D3 supplementation in HIV infection: effectiveness and associations with antiretroviral therapy

Background

HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) may create unique risk factors for vitamin D insufficiency, including alterations of vitamin D metabolism by ART. We prospectively compared demographic and clinical parameters between vitamin D sufficient and insufficient HIV-infected (HIV+) adults, and assessed changes in these parameters among insufficient participants following standardized vitamin D supplementation.

Methods

HIV+ adults (≥18 years old) with HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL on ART were enrolled. Vitamin D sufficiency and insufficiency were defined as 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) ≥30 or <30 ng/mL, respectively. Insufficient participants received open-label vitamin D3 50,000 IU twice weekly for 5 weeks, then 8000 IU twice weekly to complete 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was success or failure to achieve 25(OH)D ≥30 ng/mL at week 24.

Results

Ninety-seven participants enrolled (34 vitamin D sufficient, 63 insufficient); 32 % female, 47 % non-White, median age 46 years, ART duration 5 years, CD4+ T lymphocyte count (CD4) 673 cells/mm³. 25(OH)D repletion was 83 % (95 % CI 71 %–90 %) successful. 25(OH)D levels correlated with both CD4 (r = 0.44, p = 0.01) and time on protease inhibitor (r = −0.35, p = 0.01). After adjusting for age, sex, race, nadir CD4 and baseline 25(OH)D: 1) current use of efavirenz exposure was associated with a 21.1 ng/mL higher week 24 25(OH)D level (p = 0.007), 2) per year use of zidovudine was associated with 7.1 ng/mL reduction in week 24 serum 25(OH)D (p = 0.05) and 3) every 1 ng/mL 25(OH)D increase was associated with a 3.3 cell/mm³ CD4 increase (p = 0.06).

Conclusion

Vitamin D₃ supplementation was effective in repleting 25(OH)D levels after 24 weeks. Current efavirenz use was positively associated with post-repletion 25(OH)D levels, while greater time on zidovudine was associated with lower post-repletion 25(OH)D levels. The association between improved CD4 recovery and vitamin D repletion suggests a potential benefit of vitamin D supplementation on immunologic recovery during HIV treatment.

Trial registration

This trial is registered at The Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (U1111‐1165‐2537).

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12937-015-0072-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A comparative phase 1 clinical trial to identify anti-infective mechanisms of vitamin D in people with HIV infection

Objectives:

To determine if there is a biological mechanism that explains the association between HIV disease progression and increased mortality with low circulating vitamin D levels; specifically, to determine if restoring vitamin D levels induced T-cell functional changes important for antiviral immunity.

Design:

This was a pilot, open-label, three-arm prospective phase 1 study.

Methods:

We recruited 28 patients with low plasma vitamin D (<50 nmol/l 25-hydroxyvitamin D3), comprising 17 HIV+ patients (11 on HAART, six treatment-naive) and 11 healthy controls, who received a single dose of 200 000 IU oral cholecalciferol. Advanced T-cell flow cytometry methods measured CD4⁺ T-cell function associated with viral control in blood samples at baseline and 1-month after vitamin D supplementation.

Results:

One month of vitamin D supplementation restored plasma levels to sufficiency (>75 nmol/l) in 27 of 28 patients, with no safety issues. The most striking change was in HIV+ HAART+ patients, where increased frequencies of antigen-specific T cells expressing macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1β – an important anti-HIV blocking chemokine – were observed, with a concomitant increase in plasma MIP-1β, both of which correlated significantly with vitamin D levels. In addition, plasma cathelicidin – a vitamin D response gene with broad antimicrobial activity – was enhanced.

Conclusion:

Vitamin D supplementation modulates disease-relevant T-cell functions in HIV-infected patients, and may represent a useful adjunct to HAART therapy.

Effect of a monthly dose of calcidiol in improving vitamin D deficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism in HIV-infected patients

There are no data about the optimal supplementation therapy in HIV-infected patients with vitamin D (25OHD) deficiency. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of an oral monthly dose of 16,000 IU calcidiol. We performed a longitudinal cohort study of 365 HIV-infected patients (24 % females) was with sequential determinations of 25OHD, serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, and alkaline phosphatase. The efficacy and safety of supplementation in 123 patients were compared against dietary and sun exposure advice. Overall, mean baseline 25OHD levels were 19.1 ng/ml (IQR 12-23.6), 63 % of patients had 25OHD deficiency and 27 % secondary hyperparathyroidism. After a median time of 9.3 months (95.61 patients-year on-treatment), 25OHD levels increased in comparison with non-supplemented patients (+16.4 vs. +3.2 ng/ml; p < 0.01), decreasing the rate of 25OHD deficiency (from 84 to 24 %), and decreasing serum PTH (-4.9 pg/ml) and the rate of secondary hyperparathyroidism (from 43 to 31 %; p < 0.001). This improvement was observed irrespective of HIV/HCV coinfection or the use of efavirenz. In a regression analysis, adjusting by seasonality, a lower baseline 25OHD was associated with persistence of deficiency (relative risk, RR 1.07; 95 % CI 1.03-1.1; p < 0.001), whereas calcidiol supplementation was the only factor associated with significant improvement (RR 0.38; 95 % CI 0.12-0.46; p < 0.001). This monthly dose showed no clinical toxicity, and no patient had 25OHD levels above 100 ng/ml, nor hypercalcemia. The use of monthly calcidiol is safe, easy to take, and largely effective to improve vitamin D deficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism in HIV-infected patients.

Vitamin D₃supplementation in Batswana children and adults with HIV: a pilot double blind randomized controlled trial

Objectives

Since vitamin D insufficiency is common worldwide in people with HIV, we explored safety and efficacy of high dose cholecalciferol (D₃) in Botswana, and evaluated potential modifiers of serum 25 hydroxy vitamin D change (Δ25D).

Design

Prospective randomized double-blind 12-week pilot trial of subjects ages 5.0–50.9 years.

Methods

Sixty subjects randomized within five age groups to either 4000 or 7000IU per day of D₃ and evaluated for vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, HIV, safety and growth status. Efficacy was defined as serum 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25D) ≥32ng/mL, and safety as no simultaneous elevation of serum calcium and 25D. Also assessed were HIV plasma viral RNA viral load (VL), CD4%, anti-retroviral therapy (ART) regime, and height-adjusted (HAZ), weight-adjusted (WAZ) and Body Mass Index (BMIZ) Z scores.

Results

Subjects were 50% male, age (mean±SD) 19.5±11.8 years, CD4% 31.8±10.4, with baseline VL log₁₀ range of <1.4 to 3.8 and VL detectable (>1.4) in 22%. From baseline to 12 weeks, 25D increased from 36±9ng/ml to 56±18ng/ml (p<0.0001) and 68% and 90% had 25D ≥32ng/ml, respectively (p = 0.02). Δ25D was similar by dose. No subjects had simultaneously increased serum calcium and 25D. WAZ and BMIZ improved by 12 weeks (p<0.04). HAZ and CD4% increased and VL decreased in the 7000IU/d group (p<0.04). Younger (5–13y) and older (30–50y) subjects had greater Δ25D than those 14–29y (26±17 and 28±12 vs. 11±11ng/ml, respectively, p≤0.001). Δ25D was higher with efavirenz or nevirapine compared to protease inhibitor based treatment (22±12, 27±17, vs. 13±10, respectively, p≤0.03).

Conclusions

In a pilot study in Botswana, 12-week high dose D₃ supplementation was safe and improved vitamin D, growth and HIV status; age and ART regimen were significant effect modifiers.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02189902

High-dose vitamin D3 supplementation in children and young adults with HIV: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Suboptimal vitamin D status is prevalent in HIV-infected patients and associated with increased risk of disease severity and morbidity. We aimed to determine 12-month safety and efficacy of daily 7000 IU vitamin D3 (vitD3) versus placebo to sustain increased serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and improve immune status in HIV-infected subjects.

METHODS

This was a double-blind trial of perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV)-infected subjects or behaviorally acquired HIV (BHIV)-infected subjects (5.0-24.9 years). Safety, 25(OH)D-related parameters and immune status were assessed at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight subjects enrolled (67% male, 85% African American and 64% BHIV) and 50 completed with no safety concerns. In unadjusted analyses, there were no differences between randomization groups at baseline; at 3, 6 and 12 months, 25(OH)D was higher with supplementation than baseline and higher than with placebo (P < 0.05). In adjusted mixed models, in the supplementation group, the fixed effect of 25(OH)D was higher (P < 0.001). Percentage of naive T-helper cells (Th naive%) were significantly (P < 0.01) and T-helper cells (CD4%) marginally (P < 0.10) increased with supplementation in those taking highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and RNA viral load was reduced (P ≤ 0.05). In exploratory linear models, change in 25(OH)D predicted RNA viral load at 3 and 12 months and CD4% at 3 months (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Daily 7000 IU vitD3 for 12 months was safe in HIV-infected subjects and effective in increasing 25(OH)D. Supplementation improved some clinically important HIV immune markers in subjects on HAART. Adjunct therapy with high-dose, daily vitD3 for HIV-infected subjects and for those on/off HAART requires further investigation.

Role of vitamin D in liver diseases

Liver diseases, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, fatty liver diseases, cirrhosis and liver cancer, seriously affect our lives, and patients with liver diseases often have different levels of vitamin D deficiency. The immune-regulatory, anti-infection and anticancer functions of vitamin D make it play a certain role in the occurrence and development of liver diseases. How to use vitamin D to delay the progression of liver diseases will be a valuable topic.

Prognostic value of vitamin D level for all-cause mortality, and association with inflammatory markers, in HIV-infected persons

BACKGROUND

Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) has been associated with inflammation, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease progression, and death. We aimed to identify the prognostic value of 25(OH)D for AIDS, non-AIDS-defining events and death, and its association with immunological/inflammatory markers.

METHODS

Prospective 1-1 case-control study nested within the EuroSIDA cohort. Matched cases and controls for AIDS (n = 50 matched pairs), non-AIDS-defining (n = 63) events and death (n = 41), with plasma samples during follow-up were selected. Conditional logistic regression models investigated associations between 25(OH)D levels and annual 25(OH)D change and the probability of events. Mixed models investigated relationships between 25(OH)D levels and immunological/inflammatory markers.

RESULTS

In sum, 250 patients were included. Median time between first and last sample and last sample and event was 44.6(interquartile range [IQR]: 22.7-72.3) and 3.1(IQR: 1.4-6.4) months. Odds of death decreased by 46.0%(95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0-70.0, P = .04) for a 2-fold increase in latest 25(OH)D level. There was no association between 25(OH)D and the occurrence of AIDS or non-AIDS-defining events (P > .05). In patients with current 25(OH)D <10 ng/mL, hsIL-6 concentration increased by 4.7%(95% CI, .2,9.4, P = .04) annually after adjustment for immunological/inflammatory markers, and no change in hsCRP rate was observed (P = .76).

CONCLUSIONS

Low Vitamin D predicts short term mortality in HIV-positive persons. Effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation on inflammation and patient outcomes should be investigated.

Vitamin D status of human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients with advanced liver disease enrolled in the solid organ transplantation in HIV: multi-site study

An optimal vitamin D status may benefit liver transplantation (LT) patients. Higher levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] mitigate steroid-induced bone loss after LT, correlate with better hepatitis C virus treatment responses, and increase graft survival. This study investigated 25(OH)D levels and assessed strategies for vitamin D deficiency prevention in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients with advanced liver disease who were enrolled in the Solid Organ Transplantation in HIV: Multi-Site Study. 25(OH)D was measured in banked specimens from 154 LT candidates/recipients with the DiaSorin assay; deficiency was defined as a 25(OH)D level < 20 ng/mL. Information about vitamin D supplement use after LT was obtained from medication logs and via surveys. Logistic regression, Cox regression, and linear repeated measures analyses were performed with SAS software. We found that none of the 17 academic medical centers in the United States routinely recommended vitamin D supplements before LT, and only a minority (4/17) recommended vitamin D supplements to all patients after LT. Seventy-one percent of the 139 patients with pre-LT values had vitamin D deficiency, which was significantly associated with cirrhosis (P = 0.01) but no other variable. The vitamin D status improved modestly after LT; however, the status was deficient for 40% of the patients 1 year after LT. In a multivariate linear repeated measures model, a higher pre-LT 25(OH)D level (P < 0.001), specimen collection in the summer (P < 0.001), a routine vitamin D supplementation strategy after LT (P < 0.001), and the time elapsing since LT (P = 0.01) were significantly associated with increases in the post-LT 25(OH)D level; black race was associated with a decreased level (P = 0.02). In conclusion, the majority of patients awaiting LT were vitamin D deficient, and approximately half were vitamin D deficient after LT. More extensive use of vitamin D supplements, more sun exposure, or both are needed to prevent this deficiency in HIV-positive LT candidates and recipients.

Change in vitamin D levels and risk of severe vitamin D deficiency over 48 weeks among HIV-1-infected, treatment-naive adults receiving rilpivirine or efavirenz in a Phase III trial (ECHO)

BACKGROUND

This analysis assessed changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D; the precursor form of active vitamin D) in antiretroviral-naive adults receiving rilpivirine or efavirenz over 48 weeks in a randomized, double-blind, Phase III trial (ECHO).

METHODS

ECHO included 690 patients randomized 1:1 to receive rilpivirine 25 mg once daily (n=346) or efavirenz 600 mg once daily (n=344), plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine. 25(OH)D was measured in stored serum samples collected at baseline, and weeks 24 and 48. Proportions of patients with optimal/sufficient (≥30 ng/ml), insufficient (21-29 ng/ml), deficient (10-20 ng/ml) and severely deficient (<10 ng/ml) 25(OH)D levels were determined. Data are presented for patients with paired baseline and week 48 25(OH)D data (rilpivirine, n=292; efavirenz, n=290).

RESULTS

After 48 weeks, mean 25(OH)D levels remained largely unchanged from baseline with rilpivirine (-0.2 ng/ml; P=0.57 versus no change), but were significantly reduced with efavirenz (-2.5 ng/ml; P<0.0001 versus no change). When adjusting for season of randomization and the combined variable of race (Black/African American, White/Caucasian, Asian, other race) and ethnicity (Hispanic or Latino and not Hispanic or not Latino), the conclusion about the treatment difference between the rilpivirine and efavirenz treatment groups remained valid. At baseline the proportion of patients with severe 25(OH)D deficiency was similar in both groups (5%) but was significantly lower with rilpivirine than efavirenz at week 48 (5% versus 9%, respectively; P=0.032). Furthermore, of the patients with 25(OH)D insufficiency/deficiency at baseline, the proportion who developed severe 25(OH)D deficiency at week 48 was significantly lower with rilpivirine than efavirenz (2% versus 8%, respectively; P=0.0079).

CONCLUSIONS

Rilpivirine had little effect on 25(OH)D, whereas efavirenz resulted in a significant reduction in 25(OH)D levels and an increase in the risk of severe 25(OH)D deficiency.

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in HIV-infected children and young adults

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D insufficiency and HIV infection are both risk factors for chronic disorders, so it is important to consider vitamin D status in HIV-infected patients.

METHODS

We prospectively investigated serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations, determined by radioimmunoassay, in 113 HIV-infected children (age≤24 years) and 54 healthy controls matched for age and phototype. We assessed the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency (VDD and VDI) defined as 25(OH)D titers of <10 ng/mL and between 10 and 30 ng/mL, respectively, and their predictive factors.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of VDD and VDI was 38.9% and 58.7%, respectively. Mean serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly higher in the HIV group than the control group (14.2±6.9 ng/mL vs. 10.4±5 ng/mL, P<0.001). Variables significantly associated with low serum 25(OH)D concentrations in HIV-infected children were dark phototype (P<0.001) and age (r=-0.19, P=0.03). Patients receiving efavirenz had a trend toward lower serum 25(OH)D concentrations (11.1±4.6 ng/mL vs. 14.6±7 ng/mL, P=0.1). Dark phototype was the only independent risk factor for VDD in HIV-infected children (odds ratio=14.6; 95% confidence interval: 2.4-89.9, P=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

VDD and VDI were common in both HIV-infected and control groups, and serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly lower in controls than in HIV-infected children.

Vitamin D3 supplementation scheme in HIV-infected patients based upon pharmacokinetic modelling of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol

AIMS

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in HIV-infected patients and has been associated with osteopenia and HIV disease progression. Our aims were to investigate the pharmacokinetics of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol [25(OH)D], the effect of antiretroviral treatment (ARV) and others factors that may influence the pharmacokinetics, and to determine a vitamin D3 dosing scheme to reach the 30 ng ml(-1) threshold (defined as 25(OH)D sufficiency).

METHODS

This monocentric retrospective study included 422 HIV-infected patients aged 16 to 85 years. A total of 723 25(OH)D concentrations were available for pharmacokinetic evaluation and a population pharmacokinetic model was developed with MONOLIX 3.2.

RESULTS

Median 25(OH)D at baseline was 16 ng ml(-1) (interquartile range 11-23 ng ml(-1)) for the total population, 17% of patient had concentrations below 10 ng ml(-1), 68% between 10 and 30 ng ml(-1) and 15% above 30 ng ml(-1). 25(OH)D pharmacokinetics were best described by a one compartment model with an additional endogenous production. The effects of season and skin phototype were significant on production rate. The endogenous production was 20% lower in non-white skin phototype patients and was decreased by 16% during autumn, winter and spring. No significant differences in 25(OH)D concentrations were related to antiretroviral drugs (ARV). To obtain concentrations between 30 and 80 ng ml(-1), the dosing recommendation was 100,000 IU every month.

CONCLUSIONS

Season and skin phototype had an influence on the endogenous production of 25(OH)D. However no effect of ARV was found. A dosing scheme to reach sufficient 25(OH)D concentrations is proposed.

Differences in Serum Levels of Magnesium, Phosphate, and Albumin for HAART-Experienced and HAART-Naïve Female Patients Attending Parirenyatwa Opportunistic Infections Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe

Antiretroviral therapy inhibits HIV replication, maintains health, and preserves life. However, both antiretroviral therapy and HIV infection have been reported to have short- and long-term effects on bone metabolism. A cross-sectional study was performed to compare serum bone profiles in HIV positive patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy and compare them to therapy-naïve patients. Serum levels of calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and albumin were measured in 40 female participants on highly active antiretroviral therapy, recruited sequentially from Parirenyatwa Opportunistic Infections Clinic, Harare, Zimbabwe. The 40 women were matched for age with 40 antiretroviral therapy-naïve women. Magnesium, phosphate, and albumin levels were significantly higher in the therapy-naïve than in therapy-experienced patients. There was no statistically significant difference in calcium levels of the two groups of women. Evidence from this study suggests that highly active antiretroviral therapy lowers levels of magnesium, phosphate, and albumin but has no effect on levels of serum calcium.

Bone turnover and bone mineral density in HIV-1 infected Chinese taking highly active antiretroviral therapy -a prospective observational study

Background

Low bone mass and high bone turnover have been reported in HIV-infected individuals, both as a consequence of HIV infection itself, as well as from treatment with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of HAART on bone mineral density and bone turnover in HIV-1 infected Chinese patients.

Methods

Forty HIV-1 infected patients were enrolled in this study; all patients were followed through 48 weeks, and 17 patients completed 96 weeks. Bone mineral density (BMD), procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), collagen type 1 cross-linked C-telopeptide (β-CTX), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and 25-OH vitamin D levels were measured at baseline, 48 and 96 weeks. Baseline measurements were compared with an age-, gender-, and BMI-matched healthy control population.

Results

At baseline, raw BMD in the lumbar spine of HIV-1 infected patients was significantly lower than that of healthy controls (1.138 ± 0.112 g/cm² vs. 1.195 ± 0.139 g/cm², p = 0.047). During the first 48 weeks after initiating HAART, BMD of lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip decreased significantly in HIV-1 infected patients, with annual percent decline ranging from 1.78-3.28%. However, from week 48 to 96, BMD remained stable. Baseline levels of β-CTX (0.31 ± 0.16 ng/mL vs. 0.42 ± 0.19 ng/mL, p = 0.008) and P1NP (32.96 ± 14.00 ng/mL vs. 55.82 ± 26.87 ng/mL, p = 0.05) were lower in HIV-infected patients compared with controls, respectively. Both β-CTX and P1NP levels increased after onset of HAART until week 48, and remained elevated during the next 48 weeks. 25-OH vitamin D in HIV-infected patients was lower at baseline compared to healthy controls, but this difference was not statistically significant. PTH, however, was higher in HIV patients at baseline, and showed a significant increase throughout the study.

Conclusions

Chinese adults with HIV-1 infection have low bone turnover prior to HAART as well as lower raw BMD of the lumbar spine compared with healthy controls, with further bone loss occurring following the initiation of HAART. The long-term clinical implications of these findings remain unclear at this time.

Early loss of bone mineral density is correlated with a gain of fat mass in patients starting a protease inhibitor containing regimen: the prospective Lipotrip study

BACKGROUND

HIV-infected patients starting antiretroviral treatment (ART) experience deep and early disorders in fat and bone metabolism, leading to concomitant changes in fat mass and bone mineral density.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study in treatment-naive HIV-infected patients randomized to receive two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors in combination with either a protease inhibitor (PI) or a non-nucleosidic reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), to evaluate early changes in body composition, bone mineral density and metabolic markers as differentially induced by antiretroviral therapies. We measured changes in markers of carbohydrate, of fat and bone metabolism, and, using dual-emission X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), body composition and bone mineral density (BMD). Complete data on changes between baseline and after 21 months treatment were available for 35 patients (16 in the PI group and 19 in the NNRTI group).

RESULTS

A significant gain in BMI and in total and lower limb fat mass was recorded only in patients receiving PI. A loss of lumbar BMD was observed in both groups, being higher with PI. Plasma markers of bone metabolism (alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, collagen crosslaps) and levels of parathormone and of 1,25diOH-vitamin D3 significantly increased in both groups, concomitant with a decline in 25OH-vitamin D3. Lipids and glucose levels increased in both groups but rise in triglyceride was more pronounced with PI. A correlation between loss of BMD and gain of fat mass is observed in patients starting PI.

CONCLUSIONS

We evidenced an early effect of ART on lipid and bone metabolisms. PI lead to a significant gain in fat mass correlated with a sharp drop in BMD but active bone remodelling is evident with all antiretroviral treatments, associated with low vitamin D levels and hyperparathyroidism. In parallel, signs of metabolic restoration are evident. However, early increases in lean and fat mass, triglycerides, waist circumference and leptin are much more pronounced with PI.

Cholecalciferol supplementation in HIV-infected youth with vitamin D insufficiency: effects on vitamin D status and T-cell phenotype: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

In addition to its known effects on bone metabolism, vitamin D may regulate immune function.

DESIGN

We performed a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to test whether cholecalciferol supplementation can improve vitamin D status and affect the T-cell phenotype in HIV-infected youth with vitamin D insufficiency.

METHODS

Fifty-two HIV-infected patients aged 8 to 26 years and with serum 25(OH) D <30 ng/mL were randomized to receive orally vitamin D3 100,000 IU or placebo every 3 months for 4 doses. Serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2D, PTH, and CD4+ T cells were assessed 3 months before baseline and at 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, while Th1-, Th2-, Th17-, and Treg-subsets and T-lymphocyte vitamin D receptor were assessed at 0, 3, and 12 months.

RESULTS

Forty-eight subjects (25 receiving vitamin D and 23 receiving placebo) completed the RCT. Cholecalciferol supplementation produced an early (3 months) decrease in PTH, a concomitant increase in 25(OH)D, and a later (6 months) increase in 1,25(OH)2D levels, all persisting at 12 months. The frequency of vitamin D insufficiency at 12 months was 20% versus 60% in the intervention versus placebo group (P = .007). Cholecalciferol supplementation had no effect on CD4+ T-cell counts but was associated with a decreased Th17:Treg ratio at 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of HIV-infected youth, a 12-month cholecalciferol supplementation increased 25(OH)D and 1-25(OH)2D and decreased PTH levels but had no effect on CD4+ T-cells. However, it was associated with changes in CD4+ T-cell phenotype, warranting further investigation.

Vitamin D and HIV infection: a review of the clinical evidence

The positive effects of vitamin D in different acute and chronic diseases (e.g., bone and renal disorders, acute and chronic respiratory tract infections, and diabetes mellitus), and regulation of immune system function have been shown. In this review vitamin D status and the effects of its supplementation alone or in combination with other bone-modifying substances like calcium and bisphosphonates on the different aspects of human health have been investigated in HIV+ individuals. Three scientific electronic databases have been investigated for extracting related articles. Searching only PubMed yielded 59 results with ‘HIV OR AIDS’ and ‘Vitamin D’ keywords. Because many of the studies in this field are observational or cross-sectional, designing comprehensive and eligible randomized clinical trials has been recommended by several authors in order to develop evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to determine the best regimen of vitamin D supplementation in HIV-infected patients.

Similarly high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in HIV-infected subjects with and without low bone mineral density

Background: Hypovitaminosis D is highly prevalent among HIV-infected patients. Since hypovitaminosis D is a secondary cause of low bone mineral density (BMD), we assessed its prevalence and associated factors in HIV-infected patients with osteopenia/osteoporosis, compared with HIV-infected patients with normal BMD. Materials & methods: Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25[OH]D) concentration were collected from 149 HIV-infected subjects with low BMD and 36 with normal BMD from April to October, 2010. Regression analyses were fitted to predict the probability of hypovitaminosis D in all patients. Results: Of the 149 patients with low BMD (51.8 ± 8 years old, 76.5% men), 83% had vitamin D insufficiency (<30 ng/ml) and 7.4% had severe deficiency (<10 ng/ml). In comparison, insufficiency was present in 75% of subjects from the group with normal BMD (p = 0.60) and no subject was severely deficient (p = 0.13). Among subjects with low BMD, 1.8% of men had low levels of testosterone, 5.4% of patients had high levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, (all with normal free thyroxine levels) and 14.6% had high levels of parathyroid hormone. Univariate analysis showed significant associations between hypovitaminosis D and the current use of non-nucleosides (β-coefficient: -3.797; standard deviation: 1.538; p = 0.015), whereas protease inhibitors were associated with higher levels of vitamin D (β-coefficient: 4.640; standard deviation: 1.673; p = 0.006). Conclusion: Hypovitaminosis D was highly prevalent in our patients with low BMD but also in those with normal bone dual x-ray energy absorptionmetry scan. 25(OH)D should be periodically monitored, although the benefit of vitamin D and calcium supplements on bone mineralization has not yet been investigated in this population.

Review of metabolic, immunologic, and virologic consequences of suboptimal vitamin D levels in HIV infection

Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are common in the general and HIV-infected populations alike. Defined as levels less than 30 ng/mL, suboptimal vitamin D is known to afflict over 70% of representative samples from each group in resource-rich countries with even greater prevalence in resource-poor regions of the world. In both those with and without HIV, dark skin, low vitamin D intake, exiguous exposure to sunlight, and season act as risk factors for suboptimal vitamin D levels. In those infected with HIV, antiretroviral therapy, particularly non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), increase risk for low vitamin D as well. Furthermore, metabolic aberrations, including obesity and hyperlipidemia, and miscellaneous risk factors, such as advanced AIDS and substance abuse, have been linked to suboptimal vitamin D in those with HIV. While the skeletal and cardiovascular systems of HIV patients may be adversely impacted as a result of low levels, recent data have also linked low vitamin D to decreased CD4 counts, higher viral loads, and to critical end points including progression to AIDS events and death. More research is needed to confirm these potential consequences of low vitamin D in those with HIV and to discern the benefits of routine screening for and treatment of low vitamin D in this population.

Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its related risk factor in a Spanish cohort of adult HIV-infected patients: effects of antiretroviral therapy

We analyzed serum 25(OH) cholecalciferol [25(OH)D] levels and factors related to deficiency (<20 ng/ml) or insufficiency (<30 ng/ml) in a cohort of Spanish HIV-infected patients and compared them with an age- and latitude-matched population from another study. We prospectively assessed 25(OH)D deficiency/insufficiency in a cohort of 352 HIV patients during 2009-2010. Predisposing factors were recorded and their relationship to low levels was assessed by logistic regression; a nutritional survey examined intake, nutritional status, and sunlight exposure in a subgroup of 92 patients. We studied the correlation of 25(OH)D with parathyroid hormone (PTH) and alkaline phosphatase. Age-, sex-, and race/ethnicity-adjusted vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml) was 44.0% (95% CI, 38.8-49.4%) and insufficiency (<30 ng/ml) was 71.6% (95% CI, 66.9-76.3). Deficiency was 16.4% more prevalent in our sample than in non-HIV-infected Spaniards. Lower sunlight exposure was the only factor related to lower levels in the lifestyle and nutritional survey (p=0.045). In multiple logistic regression, higher body mass index (BMI), black race/ethnicity, lower seasonal sunlight exposure, men who have sex with men (MSM), and heterosexual transmission categories, efavirenz exposure and lack of HIV viral suppression were independently associated with deficiency/insufficiency. These variables predicted 79% of cases [AUC=0.872 (95% CI, 0.83-0.91)]. Patients receiving protease inhibitors (PIs) [OR 4.0 (95% CI, 1.3-12.3); p=0.014] or NNRTI [OR 3.6 (95% CI, 1.7-11.2); p=0.025] had higher odds of increased PTH levels; this was significant only in 25(OH)D-deficient patients (p=0.004). As in less insolated areas, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency was high in HIV-infected patients in Spain; among treated patients, levels were higher with PIs than with efavirenz.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Vitamin D Deficiency and Hyperparathyroidism in HIV-Infected Patients Treated in Barcelona

Vitamin D deficiency is an important problem in patients with chronic conditions including those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify the prevalence and factors associated with vitamin D deficiency and hyperparathyroidism in HIV patients attended in Barcelona. Cholecalciferol (25OH vitamin D3) and PTH levels were measured. Vitamin D insufficiency was defined as 25(OH) D < 20 ng/mL and deficiency as <12 ng/mL. Hyperparathyroidism was defined as PTH levels >65 pg/mL. Cases with chronic kidney failure, liver disease, treatments or conditions potentially affecting bone metabolism were excluded. Among the 566 patients included, 56.4% were exposed to tenofovir. Vitamin D insufficiency was found in 71.2% and 39.6% of those had deficiency. PTH was measured in 228 subjects, and 86 of them (37.7%) showed high levels. Adjusted predictors of vitamin D deficiency were nonwhite race and psychiatric comorbidity, while lipoatrophy was a protective factor. Independent risk factors of hyperparathyroidism were vitamin D < 12 ng/mL (OR: 2.14, CI 95%: 1.19–3.82, P: 0.01) and tenofovir exposure (OR: 3.55, CI 95%: 1.62–7.7, P: 0.002). High prevalence of vitamin deficiency and hyperparathyroidism was found in an area with high annual solar exposure.

Corticosteroid therapy, vitamin D status, and inflammatory cytokine profile in the HIV-tuberculosis immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome

Vitamin D deficiency is common in human immunodeficiency virus–tuberculosis coinfected patients in Cape Town. Those who develop tuberculosis-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome have a further reduction in circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels 2 weeks into combined antiretroviral therapy with a concomitant increase in inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.

Background. Tuberculosis-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS) in patients coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) is associated with hypercytokinemia. As adjunctive corticosteroid therapy and vitamin D have immunomodulatory properties, we investigated the relationship between cytokine/chemokine profiles, corticosteroid use, and vitamin D deficiency in TB-IRIS patients.

Methods. Plasma from 39 TB-IRIS and 42 non-IRIS patients was collected during a prospective study of HIV-associated tuberculosis patients starting ART. In total, 26% of patients received corticosteroid (CTC) therapy pre-ART for severe tuberculosis. Concentrations of total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and 14 cytokines/chemokines were determined at ART initiation and 2 weeks later.

Results. Patients prescribed concurrent CTC had lower interferon γ (IFN-γ), IP-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p40, and IL-18 pre-ART (P ≤ .02). TB-IRIS presented at 12 days (median) of ART, irrespective of CTC use. In patients who developed TB-IRIS (not on CTC) IL-6, IL-8, IL-12p40, IL-18, IP-10, and TNF increased during 2 weeks (P ≤ .04) of ART. Vitamin D deficiency (total 25(OH)D <75 nmol/L) was highly prevalent (89%) at baseline. Although vitamin D deficiency at either baseline or 2 weeks was not associated with TB-IRIS, in those not on CTC the median 25(OH)D decreased during 2 weeks (P = .004) of ART. Severe vitamin D deficiency (total 25(OH)D <25 nmol/L) was associated with higher baseline TNF, IL-6, and IL-8 irrespective of IRIS status.

Conclusions. CTC modifies the inflammatory profile of those who develop TB-IRIS. The association between severe vitamin D deficiency and elevated proinflammatory cytokines support a study of vitamin D supplementation in HIV-TB co-infected patients starting ART.

Translating the role of vitamin D3 in infectious diseases

Vitamin D(3) affects both the innate as well as adaptive immune responses. Epidemiological studies have established that vitamin D(3) deficiency plays an important role in tuberculosis (TB) and viral influenza prevalence as well as susceptibility to active disease in TB. Vitamin D(3) status has been associated with the clinical course of HIV infection and drug interaction with anti-retroviral therapy. This article reviews the immunomodulatory capacity of vitamin D(3) and examines the impact of vitamin D(3) supplementation as a preventive or therapeutic intervention with the intent to uncover its potential therapeutic application in infectious diseases and to identify novel areas for future research. We present a review of randomized, controlled clinical studies conducted in humans which included assessment of the immune function or clinical outcome as study end points. Current data support vitamin D(3) supplementation as risk-modifying intervention in tuberculosis and viral respiratory tract infection, but the optimal dosage regimen remains to be determined. However, to date the knowledge on its role in fungal infection and sepsis is limited although a potential benefit could be harnessed from its ability to curtail the unrestrained pro-inflammatory response and therefore prevent excessive collateral tissue damage.

Effects of vitamin D deficiency and combination antiretroviral therapy on bone in HIV-positive patients

OBJECTIVES

In the era of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), vitamin D deficiency, low bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures have emerged as subjects of concern in HIV-positive patients. Testing for vitamin D deficiency has been widely adopted in clinical practice even though the benefits of vitamin D supplementation in this population remain uncertain. The objective of this review was to evaluate the evidence for such a strategy.

DESIGN

Systematic review of the literature on vitamin D deficiency in HIV infection, the effects of cART on vitamin D status, and the effects of vitamin D deficiency and cART on parathyroid hormone (PTH), bone turnover, BMD and the incidence of fractures in HIV-positive patients.

METHODS

PubMed was used to identify relevant articles up to September 2011.

RESULTS

Vitamin D deficiency, secondary hyperparathyroidism and low BMD are common in HIV-positive patients. Efavirenz is associated with a reduction in 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels, tenofovir with secondary hyperparathyroidism, and cART with increased bone turnover and low BMD. The clinical significance of low BMD, however, remains unclear, especially in younger patients. Although the incidence of fractures may be increased in HIV-positive patients, the contribution of low BMD and vitamin D deficiency to these fractures is uncertain. Limited data on vitamin D supplementation in HIV-positive patients have shown transient, beneficial effects on PTH, but no effects on BMD.

CONCLUSION

The benefits of vitamin D supplementation in this population need to be demonstrated before widespread 'test and treat' policies can be recommended as part of routine clinical practice.

Vitamin D in HIV-Infected Patients

Observational studies have noted very high rates of low 25(OH)D (vitamin D) levels in both the general and HIV-infected populations. In HIV-infected patients, low 25(OH)D levels are likely a combination of both traditional risk factors and HIV-specific and antiretroviral therapy-specific contributors. Because of this unique risk profile, HIV-infected persons may be at greater risk for low 25(OH)D levels and frank deficiency and/or may respond to standard repletion regimens differently than HIV-uninfected patients. Currently, the optimal repletion and maintenance dosing regimens for HIV-infected patients remain unknown, as do potential benefits of supplementation that may be unique to the HIV-infected population. This paper reviews data published on HIV infection and vitamin D health in adults over the last year.

Vitamin D supplementation and CD4 count in children infected with human immunodeficiency virus

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate, in a randomized fashion, the impact of vitamin D supplementation on CD4 count and measures of vitamin D homeostasis in children infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

STUDY DESIGN

Children infected with HIV (n = 54) were randomized to receive no supplementation (group 1), vitamin D 5600 IU/week (group 2), or vitamin D 11 200 IU/week (group 3) for 6 months. Viral load, CD4 percent, CD4 count, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, and other measures of vitamin D metabolism were measured at baseline and 6 months later.

RESULTS

A total of 53 participants completed the study. The mean age, CD4 percent, CD4 count, and log(10) viral load at baseline were 10.3 ± 3.9 years, 33% ± 10%, 927 ± 468 cells/μL, and 1.63 (95% CI, 0.76-2.50), respectively. The mean baseline 25(OH)D level was 53.1 ± 24.8 nmol/L; 85% of participants were vitamin D insufficient or deficient (<75 nmol/L). Serum levels of 25(OH)D increased significantly in participants who received supplementation with vitamin D (P = .0002 and P < .001 for participants receiving 800 IU/day and 1600 IU/day, respectively), but not in participants who did not receive supplementation (P = .27). Participants treated with 1600 IU/day of vitamin D achieved a higher mean increase in 25(OH)D than participants treated with 800 IU/day (P = .02). However, only 67% of the group supplemented with higher dose achieved vitamin D sufficiency. Vitamin D supplementation did not lead to an increase in CD4 percent or CD4 count.

CONCLUSION

In children infected with HIV with relatively preserved immune function, vitamin D supplementation in doses as high as 1600 IU/day does not impact CD4 count. Vitamin D insufficiency is common in this population, and achieving vitamin D serum levels of >75 nmol/L may require a daily intake ≥1600 IU.

Osteoporosis and Vitamin D Deficiency in HIV-Positive Patients

Objective:

To review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of osteoporosis in patients with HIV infection and discuss vitamin D deficiency and the treatment of HIV-positive patients with osteoporosis.

Data Sources:

A search of PubMed (1980–June 2011) was conducted using the terms osteoporosis, HIV, vitamin D deficiency, and treatment.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Epidemiologic studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses published in English were included. A manual review of the bibliographies of available literature was conducted and relevant articles were reviewed for inclusion.

Data Synthesis:

Patients with HIV infection are living longer with the use of potent antiretroviral therapy (ART) and are at increased risk for osteoporosis. Several studies have shown that HIV infection can affect bone health and increase the risk for osteoporosis. In addition, ART, and tenofovir in particular, may affect bone turnover. Studies and meta-analyses have shown an increased prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis in HIV-positive patients compared to noninfected controls. Recent reports also show increased prevalence of fractures and low vitamin D concentrations in HIV-positive patients. Osteoporosis treatments used in patients with HIV infection are similar to treatments for noninfected patients. HIV-positive patients should be monitored and treated to prevent the progression and complications of osteoporosis.

Conclusions:

HIV-positive patients are at increased risk for osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency due to disease and treatment influences on bone health. These patients should be identified and treated to prevent the morbidity and mortality associated with osteoporosis.

Vitamin D and HIV: letting the sun shine in

Vitamin D is important for cell growth, immunity, and metabolism. Deficiency has classically been associated with rickets and decreased bone density and more recently with increased risk and severity of autoimmune diseases, cancers, myocardial infarction, diabetes, and infectious diseases. How vitamin D can affect these diverse conditions is the subject of much research. The active form of vitamin D (vitamin D3) has been implicated recently in an intracellular process known as autophagy. In addition to its role in maintaining cellular homeostasis during conditions of stress, autophagy plays an important role in the control of many intracellular microorganisms including Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Recent work has identified that HIV-1 reduces autophagy during permissive infection and that agents that induce autophagy, including vitamin D3, can inhibit HIV-1 replication. These findings help provide a biological explanation for the increased risk of more rapid disease progression observed in HIV-infected persons with low levels of vitamin D or with genetic variants within the vitamin D receptor that alter binding to vitamin D. Controlled trials are needed to determine the potential for therapeutic benefit of vitamin D supplementation in HIV disease. This article summarizes a presentation by Stephen A. Spector, MD, at the IAS-USA continuing medical education program held in Chicago in April 2010.