Factors Associated with Incomplete Virological Response to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy

Abstract

Sir—We read with interest the article by Clough et al. [1] concerning factors that predict incomplete virological response to protease inhibitor—based antiretroviral therapy. This retrospective study included 104 HIV-positive adults, most of whom had previously received antiretrovirals. Logistic regression analysis of predictors of incomplete response to protease inhibitor—based antiretroviral therapy (defined as a viral load >400 copies/mL after 20 weeks of therapy) included low baseline weight, baseline plasma HIV type 1 RNA level, prophylaxis for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, and active drug abuse. Regular prescription of narcotics or benzodiazepine anxiolytics and use of any Internet site predicted a more favorable response.