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Contents
  • Infectious Lung Diseases
  • Noninfectious Lung Conditions
  • Clinical Assessment in HIV

Pulmonary Diseases in HIV Patients: What You Need to Know

Pulmonary Diseases in HIV Patients: What You Need to Know

The Big Picture

HIV patients often face serious lung problems, contributing to illness and death. This article explores common lung issues in people with HIV.
Contents
  • Infectious Lung Diseases
  • Noninfectious Lung Conditions
  • Clinical Assessment in HIV

Infectious Lung Diseases

People with HIV are vulnerable to various infections due to weakened immune systems. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) remains prevalent, though antiretroviral therapy (ART) has reduced its occurrence. Bacterial lung infections are common, with tuberculosis (TB) being a significant issue, especially in places with limited medical resources. Viral infections, like cytomegalovirus, also pose risks and can complicate HIV-related lung diseases.

Noninfectious Lung Conditions

HIV can lead to noninfectious lung issues despite ART advancements. Lung cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma cases are increasing among HIV patients. Emphysema is also a concern, sometimes unrelated to smoking. HIV may cause lung tissue damage through immune system responses, leading to various lung conditions.
HIV patients often face severe pulmonary diseases, both infectious and noninfectious, impacting their health and mortality.

Clinical Assessment in HIV

Assessing lung problems in HIV patients requires understanding their immune status, symptom onset, and potential exposures. Symptoms vary: PCP causes gradual breathing troubles, while bacterial infections trigger sudden symptoms. TB risk factors include travel to certain regions or being in crowded places like shelters. Physical exams may reveal skin or eye signs pointing to specific lung diseases.

FAQs

What are common lung infections in HIV?

Pneumocystis pneumonia and tuberculosis are prevalent.

How does ART impact lung health?

ART reduces certain infections but noninfectious issues persist.

Can HIV cause lung cancer?

Yes, lung cancer incidence is rising among HIV patients.

Key Takeaways

Understanding and managing lung diseases in HIV patients is crucial for improving their quality of life.
Talk to Doctronic about how to protect lung health if you're living with HIV.
Additional References
  1. Beck JM, Rosen MJ, Peavy HH. Pulmonary complications of HIV infection. Report of the Fourth NHLBI Workshop. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001; 164:2120.
  2. Hull MW, Phillips P, Montaner JS. Changing global epidemiology of pulmonary manifestations of HIV/AIDS. Chest 2008; 134:1287.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.