Results of a recent study indicate that certain genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of fat accumulation, low “good” cholesterol levels, high “bad” cholesterol levels, and high levels of triglycerides in HIV-positive Caucasians following initiation of antiretroviral therapy.

Based on their results, the authors of the study suggested that genetic factors that may contribute to abnormal body fat redistribution and high cholesterol levels could eventually be used to guide HIV treatment decisions.

Drug-associated side effects are one of…

A recent review of studies in chemotherapy treatment in HIV-positive cancer patients found that antiretrovirals can exacerbate side effects from chemotherapy drugs and may cause drug-drug interactions that can affect dosages and efficacies.

The authors of the review recommended that in certain cases, patients should consider switching drug regimens or stopping antiretroviral therapy during chemotherapy.

The authors also emphasized the need for more clinical trial data about the combined use of antiretroviral therapy and anti-cancer drugs in patients with both…

Results from a study published this week indicate that many women with HIV never discuss issues specific to HIV-positive women during visits with their clinicians, particularly issues relating to HIV management prior to or during pregnancy.

The researchers speculated that gender-based issues were not discussed during visits with the women’s health care providers because clinicians had a lack of experience, comfort, or knowledge of these issues or expected that patients’ concerns would be attended to by other physicians.

“Clinicians caring…

Results from two recent studies indicate that teens with HIV are at high risk for depression resulting from HIV/AIDS stigma, as well as risky sexual behavior, treatment non-adherence, and substance use. One of the studies shows that HIV-negative youth born to mothers with HIV are also vulnerable to these risks.

Based on these results, the authors of the studies emphasized the need for integrated HIV care that addresses mental health problems, safe sex behavior, substance use, and treatment non-adherence in…

Results of a recent study indicate that younger HIV-positive children are at an increased risk for complications after surgery, particularly post-operation infections. Major surgeries also increase the risk of complications. HIV disease severity was not linked to complication risk.

However, the study authors noted that their study was limited in that most of the children involved had advanced HIV infection and were underweight.

Based on their results, the researchers recommended postponing surgeries in HIV-positive children until they are one year…