Journal of AIDS & Clinical Research

A Review of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Abstract

Avinash Adiga, Deepa Panikkath and Kenneth Nugent

The coexistence of inflammatory bowel disease and human immunodeficiency virus infection is rare but does occur. Since immune mechanisms have an important role in the pathophysiology of both diseases, we might expect HIV infection to significantly alter the course of IBD. The pathophysiologic relationship between HIV and IBD is complex and controversial. Although many studies suggest spontaneous improvement in IBD symptoms and stable remissions after HIV infection, there are reports of relapse and new onset IBD with the decline in CD4 counts. Many of the opportunistic infections in HIV can mimic IBD and can lead to misdiagnosis and treatment as IBD. The treatment of IBD in HIV is associated with an increased risk of infections and lymphoma, and careful follow-up is essential.