Cardiovascular biomarkers in vertically HIV-infected children without metabolic abnormalities

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology

Background:

• Early cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant concern for vertically HIV-infected children on antiretroviral therapy (ART).
• Limited evidence exists regarding specific preventive measures for CVD in this pediatric population.
• Understanding subclinical CVD markers is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate biomarkers and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) in HIV-infected children on ART.
• To compare CVD risk markers between HIV-infected children and healthy controls.
• To identify potential early indicators of cardiovascular risk in pediatric HIV.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study involving 64 HIV-infected children on ART and 30 controls.
• Measurement of a comprehensive panel of biomarkers.
• Assessment of carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) using ultrasound.
• Statistical analysis to compare groups.

Main Results:

• HIV-infected children on ART had normal lipid profiles with slightly elevated triglycerides.
• No significant differences in carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) were observed between groups.
• Elevated levels of soluble CD14 (sCD14) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM) were found in HIV-infected children (p<0.05).
• Pro-inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, etc.) were similar between HIV-infected and control groups.

Conclusions:

• Vertically HIV-infected children on ART without major metabolic issues exhibit increased sCD14 and sVCAM.
• These findings suggest specific inflammatory pathways may be involved, distinct from general pro-inflammatory responses.
• Larger studies are needed to evaluate metabolic control's impact on CVD risk and establish preventive strategies.