Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an emerging comorbidity in HIV-infected patients in the HAART era?
We evidenced a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms and COPD among HIV-infected patients. HIV infection, current cigarette smoking and previous bacterial pneumonia seem to play a significant role in the development of respiratory symptoms and COPD. Thus, our results suggest that the most at-risk HIV-infected patients should be screened for COPD to early identify those who may need specific treatment.
HBZ, by suppressing C/EBPα signaling, supports the proliferation of HTLV-1 infected cells, which is thought to be critical for oncogenesis.