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Serum beta 2 microglobulin levels in HIV seropositive persons
M Thakar1, J Rodrigues, N Athalye
1National Institute of Virology, Pune.
The Indian Journal of Medical Research
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Beta 2 microglobulin (B2M) levels are significantly elevated in asymptomatic HIV-positive individuals, suggesting its potential as an early, non-specific marker for HIV infection and immune dysfunction. Rising B2M levels correlate with disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Beta 2 microglobulin (B2M) is implicated in immunological disorders and HIV infection.
- Elevated B2M levels are observed in various immune dysfunctions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate B2M levels in asymptomatic HIV-positive individuals, HIV-negative high-risk individuals, and healthy controls.
- To assess the utility of B2M as an early, non-specific marker for HIV infection and immune dysfunction.
- To evaluate the prognostic value of B2M in HIV disease progression.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of serum B2M levels in 475 HIV-seropositive asymptomatic individuals, 101 HIV-seronegative high-risk individuals, and 99 healthy controls.
- Follow-up study of B2M levels over a 2-year period in 54 HIV-seropositive individuals.
Main Results:
- Asymptomatic HIV-seropositives showed significantly higher B2M levels compared to both healthy controls and HIV-seronegatives from high-risk groups (P < 0.001).
- Nearly half (49.26%) of seropositives exhibited increased serum B2M levels.
- In a follow-up study, B2M levels significantly increased over 2 years (P < 0.001), correlating with progression to AIDS-related conditions or persistent generalized lymphadenopathy.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative analysis of B2M can serve as an early, non-specific indicator of HIV infection and immune dysfunction.
- Rising B2M levels demonstrate a strong correlation with HIV disease progression, indicating its prognostic value.