Management of HIV-related bodyweight loss.

Involuntary bodyweight loss is a frequent manifestation of HIV infection and ultimately affects the majority of patients. Because it portends a poor prognosis and adversely affects quality of life, nutritional intervention has an important role in the care of all HIV-infected persons. The mechanism of HIV-related bodyweight loss is multifactorial and includes complex interactions between decreased caloric intake, malabsorption and metabolic and/or hormonal abnormalities. Treatment of reversible and identifiable causes of bodyweight loss such as opportunistic infections and adverse effects of therapy are essential for the maintenance of bodyweight. For patients with anorexia of unclear aetiology, there are effective appetite stimulants available. Enteral and parenteral alimentation are under evaluation for their role in maintenance and/or repletion of bodyweight for patients with HIV infection.