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Clinical and immunologic response without decrease in virus load in patients with AIDS after 24 months of highly
I Mezzaroma1, M Carlesimo, E Pinter
1Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome "La Sapienza," Viale dell'Università, 00185 Rome, Italy.
Summary
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) improved survival and immunity in AIDS patients, even without complete virus suppression. Some patients experienced peripheral lipodystrophy despite treatment benefits.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has transformed HIV/AIDS management.
- Assessing long-term outcomes in multidrug-experienced patients is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze clinical, virological, and immunological outcomes in AIDS patients on HAART.
- To identify factors associated with virological failure and treatment benefits.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 77 multidrug-experienced AIDS patients over 24 months of HAART.
- Evaluation of clinical, virological, and immunological markers.
- Correlation analysis of risk factors with treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- HAART reduced AIDS complications and prolonged survival, with immunologic benefits observed.
- Sustained virus suppression was not required for positive outcomes.
- Factors like baseline immunodepression and drug regimen influenced virological failure.
- CD4+ T cell increase correlated with viral load reduction.
- Discontinuation of prophylaxis for opportunistic infections did not lead to relapses.
- Peripheral lipodystrophy was common, irrespective of treatment or virological response.
Conclusions:
- HAART offers significant clinical and immunological advantages for experienced AIDS patients.
- Treatment success is influenced by patient-specific factors and adherence.
- Opportunistic infection prophylaxis can be safely discontinued in some cases.
- Peripheral lipodystrophy is a notable side effect requiring further investigation.