CMEonHIV.com is dedicated to providing online CME presentations (slides with voiceover) on HIV/AIDS for healthcare professionals given by local and international experts to keep you up-to-date on the ongoing developments in the field.
Conference
"Early antiretroviral treatment - Benefits and long-term impact" Pr. François Raffi (biography) English - 2008-03-14 - 51 minutes
(43 slides)
Summary : In this presentation Dr. Raffi discusses the potential impact of starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) earlier, in HIV-infected patients. One of the most important parameters to evaluate before starting therapy is the CD4 cell count. According to recommendations a CD4 cell count under 350 mm3 is a signal to start ART (DHSS and EACS). The question addressed in this presentation is whether there are benefits to an even earlier start (higher CD4 count).
A study published in 2006 (1) (D:A:D study, Weber R. et al.) showed a link between the incidence of mortality and the latest CD4 count. The importance of reaching the highest possible CD4 count during ART might therefore be an important issue in the long term. Many clinical trials have examined the potential benefits of treating patients with CD4s higher than 350 mm3. One of these trials explored the evolution of CD4 counts following ART, depending on the starting CD4 count (Moore and Keruly). The participant will have access to the available data on the treatment of patients with CD4 counts over 350 mm3. Clinical trials are under way to determine the potential benefits of this treatment.
Learning objectives : After viewing this presentation the participant will be able to discuss:
- Long term impact of early antiretroviral therapy in HIV patients
- Influence of CD4 cell count on the rate of clinical events
- Benefits of initiation of ART at different CD4 cell counts
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