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Functional and structural neuroretinal disorders in HIV Controllers. Prospective cohort study
Susana Ruiz-Bilbao1,2, Sebastian Videla2,3, Ester Pascual1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Barcelona, Spain.
HIV Medicine
|July 9, 2024
Summary
Neuro-retinal disorders (NRD) are highly prevalent in people living with HIV (PLWH), including HIV-controllers not on antiretroviral therapy (ART). These findings suggest NRD may indicate ocular aging in PLWH.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Neuro-retinal disorders (NRD) are a concern for people living with HIV (PLWH).
- Understanding NRD prevalence and incidence in different HIV management groups is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence and cumulative incidence of NRD in HIV-controllers.
- To compare NRD in HIV-controllers, individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART), and non-HIV controls.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, single-centre cohort study.
- Inclusion of HIV-controllers (elite and long-term non-progressors) off ART, HIV-infected individuals on ART, and a matched non-HIV cohort.
- Assessment of functional and structural ophthalmological parameters, and quality of life.
Main Results:
- High baseline NRD prevalence in HIV-controllers (88.2%) and HIV-treatment groups (90.9%) compared to non-HIV controls (56.3%).
- Elevated cumulative incidence of NRD over 3 years in both HIV-infected groups.
- Contrast sensitivity and structural parameters were most affected in PLWH; quality of life was impacted in HIV-controllers.
Conclusions:
- People living with HIV (PLWH), including HIV-controllers, exhibit a higher prevalence of NRD than non-HIV individuals.
- NRD may serve as a biomarker for ocular aging in PLWH.
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