An Analysis of Peripheral Neuropathy Symptom Characteristics in HIV

A gap remains in understanding the association among the symptoms of distal sensory peripheral neuropathy (DSPN) (pain, aching, burning, pins and needles, numbness), comorbidities, and medication use among persons living with People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) with DSPN. This report describes the symptom characteristics associated with prescribed treatment regimens (HIV and non-HIV medications) and comorbidities from a cohort of PLWH experiencing symptoms of DSPN who reside in New York City.

Our sample (n=353) included PLWH who were 18 years or older, and with painful lower limb (LL) peripheral neuropathy screened for an ongoing clinical trial to reduce DSPN symptoms using acupuncture/moxibustion. The trial participants completed a screening interview where they reported age, gender, race, ethnicity, HIV status, presence of LL DSPN and DSPN symptoms, current medications, and comorbidities.

Of 465 persons screened, 353 provided information for inclusion in this analysis. Seventy-eight percent rated their LL DSPN in the "severe" or "very severe" discomfort/pain range. Nearly half of those were taking prescribed or over-the-counter medication, such as nonnarcotic analgesics, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants, to manage their DSPN discomfort/pain. Despite the use of OTC and or prescription pain relievers, participants reported insufficient symptom relief.

Combination Antiretroviral Therapies (CART) effectively control viral load and maintain healthy T-cell levels in individuals with HIV. It has made HIV a chronic disease for many. However, HIV DPSN remains prevalent and has a negative impact on the lives of PLWH. Our findings highlight that, despite the availability and the use of CART, DSPN remains prevalent and not well managed. A critical need exists for the development of effective interventions to manage DSPN symptoms.