Fat distribution anomalies and other metabolic disorders in patients given antiretroviral therapy

Morphology: Certain HIV-infected patients develop fat distribution anomalies 3 to 6 months after the introduction of antiretroviral therapy. Partial or generalized lipodystrophy can be observed, in the form of central obesity with accumulation of fat in the cervicoscapular, thoracic, abdominal or hip areas. The underlying mechanism remains unknown. Metabolism disorders: Elevated serum triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol and glucose levels have been reported. Treatment of these metabolic anomalies remains a delicate challenge for patient management Presse Med 1998; 27:S10-1 (C) 1998, Masson, Paris.