Renal complications of HIV/AIDS

Renal complications are common among people living with HIV; in fact, up to 30% of HIV positive individuals may have protein in their urine--a sign of kidney dysfunction. It is difficult to estimate precisely how many people develop kidney disease--and, therefore, to implement effective disease prevention or early intervention--because kidney dysfunction may be asymptomatic or may result in only vague symptoms, such as fatigue or general malaise. Without specific symptoms, many individuals are diagnosed later in their disease course, reducing the efficacy of available treatments. Given the risks associated with kidney disease, developing awareness of kidney function and getting the necessary tests are essential to maintaining good health with HIV. This article explains how kidney function is assessed, describes the renal complications that are most commonly seen in HIV positive people, and outlines treatment options.