Bone Mineral Density in HIV-Infected People-the Experience of Craiova Regional Center.

Background

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that progressively impairs immune function by depleting CD4 + T-lymphocytes, ultimately leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). People living with HIV face a higher risk of developing various bone disorders, such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, and osteonecrosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bone mineral density (BMD) status, to determine the prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis and to identify the risk factors for low BMD in patients living with HIV undergoing antiretroviral treatment (ART), registered in Craiova Regional Center.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted between June 2024 and January 2025, including HIV-infected subjects aged over 18 years.

Results

The study group included 106 patients. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) showed that 87 patients had low BMD, 51% having osteopenia and 31.1% having osteoporosis. We found a statistically significant correlation between low BMD and older age, higher levels HIV viremia, CD4 nadir < 200 cells/mm3, prolonged ART exposure and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate containing regimens.

Conclusions

These findings support the inclusion of routine bone health monitoring in the standard care of patients with HIV, as well as the need for reevaluation.