Cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic human immunodeficiency virus infection

In 2012, the United Nations estimated that globally, 34 million people were living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection at the end of 2011.About 6.5% of AIDS-related mortality is attributable to cardiovascular disease. HIV related cardiovascular disease is diverse. In this review we explore the different disease states associated with HIV such as cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, dyslipidemia, electrocardiographic abnormalities, prolonged QT interval and sudden death. The pathophysiology of these numerous diseases is complex and multifactorial. Current management of these patients is challenging due to multiple drug-drug interactions and side effects. However, the approach to prevention is quite familiar, taking on the same rules that apply for any patient to minimize cardiovascular disease risk. The challenges are many, therefore for HIV patients who present after a cardiovascular event, or for prevention of cardiovascular disease, the concept of a heart team is essential, where cardiovascular specialists and the HIV care team work side by side to ensure safety of medications (avoid drug interactions) and to institute a goal directed prevention plan of care.