HIV-2 link to AIDS in West Africa

Article Abstract:

In 1985, a human retrovirus was identified in healthy West Africans that bore a great resemblance to SIV, the simian immunodeficiency virus. As this human retrovirus was found to be more closely related to HIV than to any other human virus, it was given the nomenclature HIV-2. The similarity to the AIDS virus, now called HIV-1, led researchers to suggest that HIV-2, as well, would produce a syndrome of immunodeficiency. The proof for this, however, is far from convincing. Much of the evidence has come from anecdotal descriptions of AIDS cases which were associated with HIV-2 infection. The rate of AIDS in West Africa is far less than the rate in East Africa, although the prevalence of HIV-2 infection in West Africa is similar to the prevalence of HIV-1 infection in East Africa. Some investigators have suggested that this might be explained by a longer incubation period for HIV-2, and that large numbers of AIDS cases might eventually develop in West Africa. Serological studies, however, have indicated that HIV-2 infections existed in this region as far back as 1966. The only reliable information of the relationship of HIV-2 to immunological disease will come from prospective studies in which individuals known to be infected with HIV-2 are followed over a long period of time. A study of 1,300 prostitutes in Senegal has been underway since 1985; although 10.8 percent of these subjects are HIV-2 positive, no immunologic differences have yet emerged to distinguish this group from a negative control group. This finding is in marked contrast to similar studies conducted among individuals positive for HIV-1. Only continuing surveillance will reveal whether HIV-2 infection is related to AIDS or an AIDS-like syndrome. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Physiological aspects, Demographic aspects, HIV (Viruses), HIV, AIDS (Disease), West Africa, Africa, West

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V3 serotyping of HIV-1 infection: correlation with genotyping and limitations

Article Abstract:

Analyzing antibody binding to the V3 peptide of HIV may not detect all of the subtypes of the virus. The V3 peptide is the basis of a rapid enzyme immunoassay. Researchers tested this enzyme immunoassay on 203 blood samples from HIV patients from 22 countries. The test accurately identified subtypes B, D, and E but was less accurate in identifying subtypes A and C. The test could not identify subtypes G or H.

Evaluation, HIV testing, HIV tests

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Initial response to highly active antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1C-infected adults in a public sector treatment program in Botswana

Article Abstract:

The response to highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) in a public sector pilot antiretroviral treatment program in Botswana is described. An excellent response to HAART is observed among HIV-1C-infected patients, paralleling those seen elsewhere although high rates of toxicity is observed for ddI + d4T-containing regimens.

Botswana, Care and treatment, Dosage and administration, Antiviral agents, Highly active antiretroviral therapy, Antiretroviral agents

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