Glomerulonephritis in HIV/AIDS: Current Trend and New Insights

Abstract

The rampage of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is growing phenomenally. Though several countries are reporting success in reducing HIV infection rates, the rate of new infections are still growing and the number of people living with HIV has continued to rise. The epidemic remains centred in sub-Saharan Africa; with only about 10% of the world population, the sub-continent is home to over two-thirds of the global HIV population. As the sub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate burden of HIVIAIDS, and with the improvement in recent years in the management of HIVIAIDS by more access to antiretroviral drugs; long-term complications of HIV AIDS including renal involvement will be expected to increase and contribute significantly to the burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the sub-region. This review discusses glomerular diseases associated with HIVIAIDS, with emphasis on the better described HIV-associated Nephropathy (HIVAN). HIV-associated Nephropathy is a leading cause of Endstage Renal Disease (ESRD) worldwide, and most particularly among the black population. Over the years there has been a greater understanding of the pathogenesis of its pathogenesis, pathologic features, clinical presentation and treatment. New trends and developments in pathogenesis, presentation and management of this disorder are discussed.