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Cardiovagal autonomic dysfunction in relation to HIV-associated lipodystrophy
Dominic C Chow1, Robert Wood, Andrew Grandinetti
1Hawaii AIDS Clinical Research Program, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Department of Internal Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816, USA. dominicc@hawaii.edu
HIV Clinical Trials
|May 11, 2006
Summary
Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated lipodystrophy (LD) exhibit altered autonomic function. Lower heart rate variability and higher sympathetic modulation in LD patients suggest increased cardiovascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Autonomic Neuroscience
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated lipodystrophy (LD) is a metabolic complication.
- Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is a potential mechanism underlying LD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate autonomic function in HIV-infected patients with LD.
- Compare autonomic function between HIV-infected patients with LD, without LD (non-LD), and HIV-negative controls.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of cardiovagal autonomic function.
- Assessment of heart rate variability (time and frequency domains) during rest, paced breathing, and upright tilt.
- LD defined by increased visceral adipose accumulation and peripheral lipoatrophy.
Main Results:
- Reduced heart rate variability in LD patients compared to non-LD and controls after adjusting for visceral fat.
- Decreased high-frequency power and increased low- to high-frequency power ratio in LD group.
- LD patients showed lower heart rate variability and higher sympathetic modulation.
Conclusions:
- HIV-associated LD is linked to altered cardiovagal modulation.
- These autonomic changes may indicate increased cardiovascular disease risk in LD patients.
- Findings highlight the importance of monitoring cardiovascular health in HIV-infected individuals with LD.