WHAT CAN CAUSE
HIV-ASSOCIATED WASTING?
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
Inflammation
Changes in Metabolism
Growth Hormone (GH) Resistance
Gastrointestinal (GI) Changes
Diarrhea
Low Testosterone
Infections
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
- 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
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
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
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
Diarrhea
- There are several causes of diarrhea, including:
⁃ Bacterial and viral infections
⁃ Irritable bowel syndrome
⁃ Intestinal disease
⁃ Food intolerances
⁃ Reactions to medications - Diarrhea may result in abdominal pain, dehydration, and weight loss
Low Testosterone
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.
See options and prompts for how to start a discussion about HIV-associated wasting with your healthcare provider.