Rheumatic manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus infection

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Rheumatic complaints are frequent in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Advances in combined antiretroviral therapy (ART) have improved HIV management and life expectancy.
• ART may be associated with new or increased prevalence of specific rheumatic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the evolving spectrum of rheumatic complications in patients with HIV.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing conditions like osteoporosis, osteonecrosis, gout, and osteoarticular infections in the context of HIV.
• To inform healthcare providers about the presentation and management of these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on rheumatic manifestations in HIV-positive individuals.
• Analysis of the impact of modern antiretroviral treatment on musculoskeletal health.
• Synthesis of clinical presentations and treatment considerations for prevalent rheumatic conditions.

Main Results:

• Osteoporosis, osteonecrosis, gout, and mycobacterial/mycotic osteoarticular infections are increasingly recognized in HIV patients on ART.
• These conditions represent a shift in the rheumatic disease profile compared to the pre-ART era.
• Familiarity with these specific complications is crucial for effective patient care.

Conclusions:

• Effective HIV management necessitates awareness of associated rheumatic complications.
• Rheumatologists, internists, and general physicians require updated knowledge to address these evolving musculoskeletal issues.
• Proactive screening and management strategies are essential for improving outcomes in HIV-positive patients with rheumatic diseases.