Differentiating hyperlipidaemia associated with antiretroviral therapy

Abstract

In HIV-infected patients with high VLDL, large VLDL particles were found with no increase in number. This pattern resembles familial hypertriglyceridaemia. It is different from familial combined hyperlipidaemia, where an increase in number of small-sized VLDL particles occurs. Further research is needed to assess the contribution of VLDL-associated hypercholesterolaemia in those taking antiretroviral drugs to the cardiovascular risk profile of HIV-positive patients.