[New spectrum of HIV-associated cognitive disorders in the HAART era]

Rev Med Suisse. 2009 Apr 29;5(201):955-6, 958-61.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) has almost abolished HIV-related mortality and serious opportunistic diseases; among them, AIDS-related dementia. However, minor forms of cognitive dysfunction, have not disappeared, and even increased in frequency. Ageing of HIV+ patients, insufficient penetration of anti-viral drugs into the brain with continuous low-grade viral production and inflammation may play a role. Minor cognitive dysfunction in HIV infection shares some clinical and pathophysiological features with neuro-degenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimers disease. It can thus be postulated that, such in Alzheimer disease, anti-cholinesterase drugs might also be efficacious in AIDS-related minor cognitive dysfunction. This hypothesis has not been tested yet however A clinical trial using ravistigmine is starting this spring in patients with HIV-associated cognitive dysfunction in Geneva and Lausanne.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology*
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • Humans