Metabolic complications of antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected children

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to describe the metabolic complications associated with antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected children. As a result of extensive research over the last 10 years, there is a greater awareness and understanding of these conditions. However, in resource-limited settings, where the majority of HIV-infected children live, the prevalence and risk factors of metabolic complications are largely unknown. Limited diagnostic resources contribute to this impediment. Therapies for these conditions are still under investigation, including prevention and optimal treatment of reduced bone mineral density, osteopaenia and osteoporosis. Future research goals should be directed towards closing the diagnostic and treatment gaps between rich and poor settings.