HIV/AIDS: Research and Palliative Care (Sep 2013)
A review of cardiovascular and renal function monitoring: a consideration of older adults with HIV
Abstract
Clark D Kebodeaux,1 Alexandria Garavaglia Wilson,1 Daron L Smith,2 Scott Martin Vouri1 1St Louis College of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmacy Practice, St Louis, MO, USA; 2St Louis College of Pharmacy, Adjunct Faculty, St Louis, MO, USA Abstract: The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in older and elderly adults is significant worldwide. This population poses new challenges and opportunities in the management of HIV. In addition to the risks affecting HIV patients of all ages, including risk of opportunistic infection and medication resistance, age-related changes in physiology, higher comorbidity burdens, increased use of medications, and potential adverse drug reactions to HIV medications all factor into the care of older adults with HIV. The risk and progression of cardiovascular and renal comorbidities may be higher in the older adult HIV population and in patients taking specific HIV medications. Understanding these risks is essential when managing a new type of patient: the older adult with HIV. Keywords: older adult, elderly, geriatrics, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, renal dysfunction, HIV