Human Immunodeficiency Virus as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Disease Research
• HIV Medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• HIV infection significantly elevates cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in people living with HIV (PLWH).
• Increased levels of pro-inflammatory molecules (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α, hs-CRP) are characteristic of HIV infection.
• Mechanisms like CD4+ lymphocyte depletion, increased intestinal permeability, and altered lipid metabolism contribute to CVD risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms underlying increased CVD risk in PLWH.
• To evaluate the impact of HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) on CVD development.
• To highlight the importance of considering HIV as a potential causal factor for CVD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on HIV, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease.
• Analysis of pro-inflammatory markers in PLWH.
• Examination of the role of ART and co-infections (HCV, HBV) in CVD risk.

Main Results:

• HIV infection is linked to elevated pro-inflammatory markers, even with ART, though ART reduces some levels.
• ART adverse effects contribute to CVD risk, but HIV itself is considered a more significant factor in metabolic syndrome development.
• Higher prevalence of smoking and co-infections exacerbate CVD risk in PLWH.

Conclusions:

• HIV plays a substantial role in CVD development, independent of traditional risk factors.
• Comprehensive management strategies are needed to address CVD in PLWH.
• Early consideration of HIV as a CVD factor is crucial, especially in younger or atypical cases.