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Intestinal absorption and permeability in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients
P Pernet1, D Vittecoq, A Kodjo
1Biochemistry Dept. A, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France.
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|February 27, 1999
Summary
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection impairs intestinal function, leading to weight loss and diarrhea. Intestinal permeability is compromised in later stages of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Impaired intestinal function is a common complication in advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
- Diarrhea and weight loss are frequent symptoms associated with compromised gut health in HIV patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess intestinal permeability and D-xylose absorption in HIV-infected patients across different disease stages.
- To correlate gastrointestinal changes with the progression of HIV infection and the presence of symptoms like diarrhea and weight loss.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated intestinal permeability using lactulose and mannitol tests.
- Measured D-xylose absorption in 96 HIV-infected patients (asymptomatic, symptomatic, and AIDS patients) and 10 healthy controls.
Main Results:
- A progressive decrease in D-xylose absorption was observed with advancing HIV disease.
- Significantly impaired intestinal permeability was identified exclusively in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients with severe symptoms.
Conclusions:
- HIV disease progression leads to a reduction in the functional absorptive surface of the intestine.
- While subtle changes may occur early, significant intestinal permeability impairment is a hallmark of later-stage AIDS, particularly when digestive symptoms like diarrhea are present.