Immune Dysregulation in Ischemic Heart Disease Among Individuals with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Meilynn Shi1, Matthew J Feinstein1

  • 1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.

Heart Failure Clinics
|March 19, 2025
PubMed

Insights

People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) face higher risks of ischemic heart disease due to various factors. Understanding inflammation mechanisms is key for better prevention, diagnostics, and treatments for cardiovascular issues in HIV patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have increased risks for ischemic heart disease and cardiovascular complications.
  • Contributing factors include traditional comorbidities, antiretroviral therapy side effects, persistent viral activity, co-infections, mucosal damage, and chronic immune system imbalance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on cardiovascular risks in HIV patients.
  • To explore the role of inflammation in HIV-associated cardiovascular disease.
  • To discuss clinical phenotypes, diagnostics, and potential treatments.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of foundational and recent studies.
  • Analysis of clinical data and research on inflammatory pathways.
  • Examination of diagnostic tools and pharmacotherapies.

Main Results:

  • HIV infection is linked to a complex interplay of factors exacerbating cardiovascular risk.
  • Inflammation and immune dysregulation are central mechanisms driving these risks.
  • Current research identifies various clinical presentations and therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

  • A comprehensive understanding of HIV-related cardiovascular disease mechanisms, particularly inflammation, is crucial.
  • This knowledge can guide the development of improved prevention, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies.
  • Further translational research is needed for clinical implementation to improve patient outcomes.

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