Lipodystrophy unrelated to HIV

Rare forms of lipodystrophy are inheritable and lipodystrophy is associated with insulin resistance in some of these syndromes. 1 Many of the defects proposed as mechanisms in HIV-associated lipodystrophy have already been investigated in cases of inherited and/or genetic lipodystrophy to establish whether particular genetic mutations are associated with the syndromes. In the case of familial partial lipodystrophy (Dunnigans type), the gene associated with the syndrome is located very close to CRABP-2, at chromosome IQ21. CRABP-2 is the lipoprotein receptor-related protein which bears a close resemblance to HIV protease.

A form of lipodystrophy called Madelung's disease has been related to a mitochondrial defect.

Acquired forms of lipodystrophy which resemble those reported in HIV have also been reported in uninfected individuals, and may be associated with an auto-immune response. The syndrome is 2.6 times more common in women than in men, conforming to the prevalence of auto-immune diseases in the population. In 90% of cases auto-antibody to C3 nephritic factor has been detected. C3neF breaks down adipocytes in test-tube studies. Anything which interferes with the breakdown of fat cells is likely to interfere with peripheral and central fat storage.

A lipodystrophy syndrome has been reported in individuals who received bone marrow transplants and immune suppressive treatment during childhood. The frequency of insulin resistance increased in a cohort of Finnish individuals with the time since bone-marrow transplantation.2

References

  1. Garg A et al. Lipodystrophies. American Journal of Medicine 108(2): 143-152, 2000
  2. Taskinen M et al. Impaired glucose tolerance and dyslipidemia as late effects after bone marrow transplantation in childhood. Lancet 356: 993-997, 2000
Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
close

This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.