Can HIV cause cardiovascular issues in a young male?

Question

Hi doctor,

My brother is 38 years old. He just got diagnosed with HIV, and the doctor mentioned something about a heart disease link. He is worried that this means his heart could also be affected too? Can you explain how they are related and what tests he should do to check his heart health? Are there any specific lifestyle changes he needs to make to protect his heart health? Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Let me explain to you, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is associated with cardiovascular abnormalities. In dilated cardiomyopathy, the possible causes are HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), Toxoplasmosis gondii, Epstein-Barr virus, CMV (cytomegalovirus), adenovirus, autoimmune response to infection, thyroid hormone, growth hormone, adrenal insufficiency, hyperinsulinemia, encephalopathy, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, and HIV viral load.

In coronary heart disease or arterial hypertension, the possible cause is HIV - induced endothelial dysfunction. In pericardial effusion, the potential causes are Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Proteus, Nocardia, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus, Listeria, HIV, Herpes simplex virus, Herpes simplex type 2, CMV, Toxoplasmosis, Kaposi sarcoma, and hypothyroidism. In Isolated right ventricular and pulmonary disease, the possible causes are recurrent bronchopulmonary infection, pulmonary arteritis, and primary pulmonary hypertension.

The investigations to be done are CD4 with lymphocyte count, count of HIV, viral load, CBC (complete blood count), CRP (C-reactive protein), ECG (electrocardiogram), BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide test) or NT-pro-BNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide test), and chest X-ray. Echocardiography is the standard tool for the evaluation and follow-up of cardiac abnormalities and function in HIV-infected patients. CT (computed tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and T1 and T2 MRI-weighted images help in diagnosis. The management options are MDTA (multidisciplinary team advice). Take advice from a consultant cardiologist regarding further management plans. Consult a physician and HIV expert for further management of HIV, a psychiatrist for management of anxiety and depression, and undergo psychotherapy. I hope you will follow the plan mentioned above. If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would appreciate it if you could give your feedback.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.