Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 8, 2026

Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
05:53

Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty

Published on: July 24, 2013

Bone mineral density loss, osteoporosis, and fractures in HIV

Pablo Labarga

    AIDS Reviews
    |September 5, 2013
    PubMed

    Insights

    Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is linked to lower bone density and increased fracture risk. The exact causes, whether HIV itself or treatments, remain under investigation.

    Area of Science:

    • Bone Metabolism and Endocrinology
    • Infectious Diseases and Immunology

    Background:

    • Established link between Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and reduced bone mineral density (BMD), encompassing osteopenia and osteoporosis.
    • HIV infection is associated with a higher risk of bone fractures.

    Discussion:

    • Ongoing debate regarding the precise causes of bone density reduction in HIV patients.
    • Potential contributing factors include direct effects of HIV, inflammatory and metabolic alterations, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) toxicity.
    • The multifactorial nature of bone loss in HIV necessitates comprehensive investigation.

    Key Insights:

    • The etiology of decreased BMD and increased fracture risk in HIV is complex and multifactorial.
    • Distinguishing between HIV-related effects and treatment-related side effects on bone health is crucial.
    • Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms driving bone complications.

    Outlook:

    • Future research should focus on differentiating the contributions of viral factors versus ART to bone disease.
    • Developing targeted interventions to mitigate bone loss in the HIV-infected population is a priority.
    • Continued clinical and scientific discourse is essential for advancing understanding and management of HIV-associated bone disease.

    More Related Videos

    Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty07:27

    Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty

    Published on: October 6, 2016

    Related Concept Videos

    Bone Disorders01:29

    Bone Disorders

    Aging and its effect on bone remodeling is the most common cause of bone disorders. In young and healthy people, bone deposition and resorption happen at an equal rate to maintain optimal bone health.
    Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
    Role of Vitamins in Maintaining Bone Health01:25

    Role of Vitamins in Maintaining Bone Health

    The growth and maintenance of bone are regulated by a combination of nutritional factors, including vitamins, such as vitamin A, B12, C, D, and K.
    Vitamin A
    Vitamin A is involved in the process of bone remodeling. Retinoic acid, the active metabolite of Vitamin A, has nuclear receptors in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which are involved in bone remodeling.
    Vitamin B12
    Vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor during the formation of osteoblast-related proteins, such as osteocalcin. Vitamin B12 plays a role...
    Essential Minerals for Bone Health01:31

    Essential Minerals for Bone Health

    The minerals contained in all of the food we consume are essential for our organ systems. However, certain essential minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, and fluoride, largely affect bone health.
    Calcium and Phosphorus
    Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
    Bone Remodeling01:40

    Bone Remodeling

    Bone remodeling is a continuous and balanced process of bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts. In adults, it helps maintain bone mass and calcium homeostasis. While mechanical stress can stimulate turnover as part of the normal maintenance and reparative process, several hormones also regulate bone remodeling.
    What is the Skeletal System?01:02

    What is the Skeletal System?

    Overview
    Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations01:24

    Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations

    Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progressively impairs multiple body systems due to the accumulation of uremic toxins, which disrupt cellular functions across various organs.Neurologic symptomsNeurologic symptoms often arise early in CKD, as uremic toxin buildup drives changes in cognitive and motor functions. Patients frequently experience fatigue, headache, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and, in severe cases, seizures. Peripheral neuropathy commonly manifests as burning sensations in the...