Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. I am a 54 yr old white male who was diagnosed with HIV infection in 1986. I was drug niave until 1996 when I began therapy with Crixivan, 3TC, and Videx. Since then, my CD4 count has gone from 0 to >400 and my viral load has been continuously undetected since then.
However, several years after the initiation of this drug combo, I developed osteoporosis which is now under control with Fosomax.
About 6 years, ago I developed exercise induced asthma which has deteriorated since into chronic bronchitis as well. I am on Alevair, Singulair, Albuterol as a rescue inhaler and an albuterol hand held nebulized treatment.
A recent PFT shows my FEV1 at 25% of normal. A recent bronchoscopy showed no sign of bacterial infection other then normal lung flora. Today is my first day of pulmonary rehabilitation via my pulmonary doctor. I remain SOB.
Question: Since it is known that protease inhibitors can cause bone density problems as with my Crixivan, is there a possiblity that this drug is also causing lung tissue problems? Has there been any findings to date about this possibility? I do not smoke.
Thank you.
Ross Slotten, M.D.
Klein and Slotten Medical Associates
Private Practice in Family Medicine
With a special interest in HIV disease
First of all, congratulations on doing so well from the HIV-perspective. You have responded beautifully to your regimen. Unfortunately, HIV meds can cause a variety of side effects. Osteoporosis is one, though it's cause is unclear. However, it's unlikely that your lung problems are related to your medications. As far as I know, there have not been any reports implicating any of the HIV drugs in chronic lung diseases. You do not mention if you smoke or used to smoke. If so, it could explain the progressive nature of your lung problems. I presume that your lung specialist has searched for, or is searching for, causes of lung disease that have nothing to do with your HIV infection.
Sincerely,
Ross Slotten
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