Immune and virological benefits of 10 years of permanent viral control with antiretroviral therapy

AIDS. 2010 Feb 20;24(4):614-7. doi: 10.1097/QAD.0b013e32833556f3.

Abstract

The effects of a 10-year control of HIV replication without viral blips with antiretroviral therapy were examined in progressors. CD4 cell counts did not plateau but showed a continuous increase until the 10th year. Ultrasensitive techniques showed very low plasma HIV RNA and cell-associated DNA levels. Robust memory T cell responses to HIV-p24 were higher than in 3-year treated patients and comparable to those of Elite controllers, whereas interferon-gamma-producing HIV-specific T cells were infrequent. Long-term and efficient antiretroviral therapy provides continuous benefits both on the immune system and on the HIV reservoirs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • CD4 Lymphocyte Count
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • HIV Infections / immunology
  • HIV Infections / virology
  • HIV-1 / drug effects*
  • HIV-1 / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Viral Load
  • Virus Replication / drug effects

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents