HIV/AIDS News

WASHINGTON — Researchers observed significant improvements in virologic, immunologic and clinical outcomes among children with HIV who received treatment for tuberculosis and were also receiving an efavirenz-based regimen for HIV treatment, according to data presented this week at the XIX International AIDS Conference. 

WASHINGTON — Peripheral neuropathy appears to be common among rural South African children with HIV who are currently taking antiretroviral therapy, according to study researchers who presented their data during the XIX International AIDS Conference here.

The FDA has approved combination emtricitabine plus tenofovir disproxil fumarate, combined with safer sex practices, to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV infection in adults at high-risk for HIV.

The FDA has approved a DNA test that will help determine the progress of treatment in solid organ transplant patients who are being treated with cytomegalovirus antiviral therapy, according to an FDA press release.

Even among children with HIV who have not received nevirapine, treatment outcomes were better with ritonavir-boosted lopinavir, according to study findings published online.

The FDA has approved the first over-the-counter, self-administered HIV test to detect antibodies to HIV-1 and HIV-2.

The CDC has announced a program to train pharmacists and retail store clinic staff to deliver confidential, rapid HIV testing. The goal of the pilot project, being launched at 24 rural and urban sites to start, is to extend HIV testing and counseling into the services that are offered by pharmacies and retail clinics.

Strict infection control practices and breast-feeding guidance is important in areas with increased rates of HIV infection, according to a recently published study.

Children who contract HIV perinatally and those who are exposed to HIV may have a higher risk of hearing loss than the general population, but further study is required, according to a study published online.

There were no differences in neurodevelopmental outcomes among children who had deferred antiretroviral therapy compared with children who immediately started antiretroviral therapy.