Hematological Complications in HIV-Infected Populations
Summary
HIV infection profoundly affects the haematopoietic system, leading to a spectrum of blood disorders that contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality. Anaemia, thrombocytopenia and broader cytopenias arise through multifactorial mechanisms including direct viral suppression of marrow progenitors, chronic inflammation, opportunistic infections and drug-related toxicity. Persistent anaemia is associated with accelerated disease progression, impaired quality of life and increased risk of cardiovascular events, while thrombocytopenia may predispose to bleeding complications and complicate anticoagulation. Although antiretroviral therapy has mitigated many haematological complications, residual cytopenias remain prevalent, particularly in resource-limited and high-burden settings. Emerging insights into the interplay between HIV, coinfections such as tuberculosis, nutritional status and host genetic factors have informed refined diagnostic algorithms and targeted interventions. Routine blood monitoring alongside virological and immunological assessment is essential for early detection and personalised care. Future strategies will depend on integrating novel biomarkers, optimising regimens to reduce haematotoxicity and developing supportive therapies for persistent cytopenias worldwide.
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Hematological Complications in HIV-Infected Populations publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in hematological complications in hiv-infected populations across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Anaemia: A reduction in haemoglobin concentration or red cell mass impairing oxygen delivery.
Cytopenia: A deficiency of one or more types of blood cells, including red cells, white cells or platelets.
Thrombocytopenia: A decrease in platelet count below normal thresholds, increasing bleeding risk.
Thrombopoietin (TPO): A hormone that regulates platelet production by stimulating megakaryocyte maturation.
Anti-TPO antibodies: Autoantibodies directed against thrombopoietin, which may neutralise its activity and contribute to thrombocytopenia.
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART): Combination drug regimens designed to suppress HIV replication and restore immune function.
References
- Prevalence trends of anemia impairment in adolescents and young adults with HIV/AIDS. BMC Public Health (2024).
- Investigating the Role of Anti-TPO Antibodies in HIV-Associated Thrombocytopenia before and after Initiation of HAART: A Case-Control Longitudinal Study. Viruses (2023).
- Prediction of the risk of cytopenia in hospitalized HIV/AIDS patients using machine learning methods based on electronic medical records. Frontiers in Public Health (2023).
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