Walker UA et al. - Articular conditions (arthralgia, arthritis and SpAs) are either caused by the HIV infection itself, triggered by adaptive changes in the immune system, or secondary to microbial infections. Muscular symptoms may result from rhabdomyolysis, myositis or from side-effects of highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART). SLE may be observed but may be difficult to differentiate from HIV infection. Some anti-retroviral agents can precipitate hyperuricaemia and are associated with arthralgia. When indicated, immunosuppressants and even anti-TNF-alpha agents can be used in the carefully monitored HIV patient. Thus, rheumatic diseases and asymptomatic immune phenomena remain prevalent in HIV-infected persons even after the widespread implementation of highly active anti-retroviral therapy.
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