Causes

The exact cause of HIV-associated wasting isn’t known, but experts believe it can be related to one or more of the following:

Infections

Infections may cause changes in metabolism and increase the body’s caloric needs
The need for increased energy coupled with decreased nutrient intake may result in unintentional weight loss and energy loss
Due to their compromised immune systems, people living with HIV may be at a greater risk for infection. cART (combination antiretroviral therapy) is unable to restore the immune system or resolve the infection

Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response to infection, stress, trauma, or cell injury in the body
Even when the virus is controlled, inflammation may continue
to occur
Chronic inflammation can cause the breakdown of muscle tissue and decreased appetite, leading to loss of lean body mass and weight loss

Changes in Metabolism

Metabolism is how the body turns food into energy
When metabolism becomes abnormal, the body may break down carbohydrates and proteins at an excessive rate
If this happens, energy is drawn from lean body mass, which means a loss of muscle, organ tissue, blood cells, bone, and water

Growth Hormone (GH) Resistance

GH is made up of several substances secreted by the pituitary gland that support growth of the body
GH helps maintain bone and skeletal muscle in the body
GH resistance is a failure to process and respond to GH that occurs naturally in the body
When the body resists or has difficulty using GH the body makes naturally, or if the body is not making enough GH, a loss of lean body mass may occur

Gastrointestinal (GI) Changes

The gastrointestinal system absorbs nutrients, electrolytes, and water into the body
Layers in the intestinal wall defend against toxins and microorganisms that may harm the body
HIV may disrupt this system, leading to changes in how nutrients are absorbed and the rate at which the body breaks down proteins
When the body doesn’t absorb enough nutrients or breaks down proteins too quickly, loss of lean body mass and weight may occur

Diarrhea

Low Testosterone

The testicles in males and, to a lesser extent, the ovaries in females produce the hormone testosterone
Testosterone helps with maintaining muscle mass, bone growth, adequate red blood cell levels, and sexual function

Learn more about the symptoms of HIV-associated wasting and details about who may be impacted.

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The people depicted on this website are not actual HIV-associated wasting patients or healthcare professionals.

Learn more about a specific treatment option for HIV-associated wasting.

WHAT CAN CAUSE HIV-ASSOCIATED WASTING?