Inflammation, Viral Replication, and Atherosclerosis in Treated HIV Infection

This proposal is currently approved by CHR (#H9577-18534-03C, exp date 3/26/04); the purpose of this new application is to split the currently approved protocol into a separate protocol with a separate PI. Data collected and patients seen under the previously approved protocol will be carried over into this new separate protocol. This is a longitudinal observational study of HIV-infected patients and HIV-negative control patients, and individuals with autoimmune diseases. We plan to obtain measurement of carotid artery intima media thickness (IMT) using high resolution ultrasound as a noninvasive means for tracking atherosclerotic progression. In addition, patients will undergo ct scan for coronary calcium and single slice abdominal ct scan to assess visceral fat. We will also measure lipid and lipoprotein levels, inflammatory markers, markers of CMV infection, thrombotic markers, atherogenic lipoproteins, and markers of immune function. Immunophenotyping will be performed on freshly collected blood and analyzed by flow cytometry to identify activated T cells,T cell turnover, proportions of T cells, and CMV function. HIV-infected patients will have CD4 count and HIV viral load measured in addition. Patients will undergo detailed clinical history including HIV disease, specific HIV medications, comorbid conditions, and health related behaviours. Physical exam and measurements will be obtained to assess for the presence of lipodystrophy. Patients will undergo study visits for ultrasound, blood draw, and interview at 4-12 month intervals for the next 3 years. Patients will also go assessment of endothelial function, endothelial progenitor cells, arterial stiffness as measured using pulse wave tonometry. In patients with detectable calcium on CT scan, they will be given the option of obtaining CT angiography. Patients will also undergo testing for peripheral arterial disease using ankle brachial index testing and exercise treadmill testing.

Inclusion criteria

• Stable antiretroviral therapy for at least 12 months, and have no immediate plans to alter therapy.
• All plasma HIV RNA levels within the past year must be below conventional levels of detection (< 50 copies RNA/mL), although isolated single values > 50 but < 1000 copies will be allowed if they were preceded and followed by undetectable viral load determinations.
• Ability to provide reliable history of HIV medications or has received the majority of medical care from San Francisco General Hospital with available records of medical treatment