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Antiretroviral agents

Persistent Inflammation in HIV-Positive Individuals Highlights Need for Tailored Strategies

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers from Mangosuthu University of Technology have shed light on the persistent inflammation in HIV-positive individuals, despite antiretroviral therapy (ART). The study, published in the African Journal of Laboratory Medicine, analyzed retrospective laboratory results from 275 individuals, aged 0-39 years, treated at a tertiary hospital in South Africa. The findings revealed that HIV-positive individuals had significantly higher C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, indicating persistent inflammation, despite ART. The study also highlighted the need for tailored strategies to manage inflammation and reduce cardiovascular risks in HIV-positive individuals, especially young adults and male patients.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that HIV-positive individuals had significantly higher CRP levels, indicating persistent inflammation, despite ART.
  • The age group with the highest inflammatory markers, such as CRP, were young adults (18-39 years old).
  • The research revealed that CRP levels were notably higher among male patients (r = 0.133, p = 0.014) compared to female patients.
  • The study period commenced on 02 December 2023 and ended on 28 October 2024.
  • The study provides insight into specific inflammatory markers that are reduced or elevated in people living with HIV.
  • The study assessed how ART influences the immune response in HIV-positive individuals, particularly in terms of inflammation.
  • The research highlights the need for targeted therapies and monitoring disease progression.

Statistics:

  • 275 individuals were included in the study, aged 0-39 years.
  • 211 females (76.7%) and 64 males (23.3%) were part of the study.
  • The study found that HIV-positive individuals had significantly higher CRP levels (r = 0.140, p = 0.010).
  • D-dimer levels remained high within normal ranges across the sample, suggesting a generally low thrombotic risk.

Sources:

  • Comparative analysis of inflammatory markers in HIV-positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy versus HIV-negative individuals in South Africa. African Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2025,14(1):e1-e6.
  • African Journal of Laboratory Medicine - http://www.ajlmonline.org
  • AOSIS (publisher of African Journal of Laboratory Medicine)

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