Psychological and physical health correlates of body cell mass depletion among HIV+ men.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether significant body cell mass depletion related to HIV is associated with declines in physical health and psychological well-being.

METHODS

As part of a 2-year prospective HIV study, semiannual assessments included measures of body composition, psychological status, and physical health.

RESULTS

As measured by bioelectric impedance analysis, 58 (31%) of 187 enrolled HIV+ men had significant body cell mass depletion at some point during the study, of who 23 subsequently lost at least an additional 5% of body cell mass in the 6 months between any two consecutive study visits. This additional body cell mass depletion was associated with significant increase in fatigue, global distress and depressive symptomatology, and reduced life satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

These data illuminate the importance of monitoring body weight and body cell mass, and the need for awareness of the association between malnutrition, mental health, and quality of life.