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Published in: Current HIV/AIDS Reports 5/2022

13-08-2022 | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Complications of HIV and Antiretroviral Therapy (GA McComsey, Section Editor)

Ectopic Fat and Cardiac Health in People with HIV: Serious as a Heart Attack

Authors: Ana N. Hyatt, Jordan E. Lake

Published in: Current HIV/AIDS Reports | Issue 5/2022

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This study aims to summarize knowledge of alterations in adipose tissue distribution among people with HIV (PWH), with a focus on the cardiac depot and how this relates to the known higher risk of cardiovascular disease in this unique population.

Recent Findings

Similar to the general population, cardiac fat depots mirror visceral adipose tissue in PWH. However, altered fat distribution, altered fat quality, and higher prevalence of enlarged epicardial adipose tissue depots are associated with increased coronary artery disease among PWH.

Summary

Adipose tissue disturbances present in PWH ultimately contribute to increased risk of cardiovascular disease beyond traditional risk factors. Future research should aim to understand how regulating adipose tissue quantity and quality can modify cardiovascular risk.
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Metadata
Title
Ectopic Fat and Cardiac Health in People with HIV: Serious as a Heart Attack
Authors
Ana N. Hyatt
Jordan E. Lake
Publication date
13-08-2022
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current HIV/AIDS Reports / Issue 5/2022
Print ISSN: 1548-3568
Electronic ISSN: 1548-3576
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-022-00620-2

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