Effect of combined antiretroviral therapy on selected trace elements and CD4+ T-cell count in HIV-positive persons in an African setting

Abstract

In HIV-infected persons, low serum concentrations of trace elements have been associated with an increased risk of HIV disease progression and mortality. Few data are available to determine whether HAART ameliorates micronutrient deficiencies in HIV-positive persons. In the current study, we investigated the effects of HAART on selected trace elements such as selenium, zinc and copper and on CD4+ T-cell count in HIV-positive persons. Fifty HIV-positive individuals with 25 on HAART and 25 who were not on HAART were recruited for the study. Twenty five apparently health persons who were HIV-negative serve as a control group. Serum concentrations of selenium, zinc and copper were estimated by atomic absorption spectrophometric method while CD4+ T-cell count was determined by flow cytometric method. Persons on HAART showed significantly (P<0.05) high Zn and CD4+ Tcell count compared to PRE-HAART. There was no significant difference in the serum selenium and copper levels between HAART and PRE-HAART persons. In conclusion, HAART significantly improved the immunological status as evidenced by increased CD4+ T-cell count and also significantly increased the zinc level in the same group. A large randomized placebo-controlled trial is recommended for future study. © 2012 Akinola FF, et al.