Heart Rate Variability in HIV Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy
Author Information
Author(s): Askgaard Gro, Kristoffersen Ulrik Sloth, Mehlsen Jesper, Kronborg Gitte, Kjaer Andreas, Lebech Anne-Mette
Primary Institution: Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
Hypothesis
Is autonomic dysfunction present in HIV patients receiving antiretroviral therapy, and what factors are important?
Conclusion
Moderate autonomic dysfunction is present in HIV positive patients even with suppressed viral load due to ART, correlated with blood glucose and cholesterol levels.
Supporting Evidence
- HIV patients had lower heart rate variability compared to controls.
- Blood glucose levels correlated with heart rate variability measures.
- Cholesterol levels were inversely related to heart rate variability in HIV patients.
Takeaway
HIV patients on treatment may have problems with their heart's automatic functions, which can be linked to their blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Methodology
The study included 97 HIV patients on ART and 52 healthy controls, measuring heart rate variability through ECG.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias in participant recruitment.
Limitations
The study may not account for all confounding factors influencing heart rate variability.
Participant Demographics
97 HIV patients (83% Caucasian, 11% African, 6% Asian, 1% Inuit) and 52 healthy controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001 for mean NN, p=0.028 for SDNN
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website