Living and Dealing with Body Shape Change

Abstract

Since its introduction in 1996, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has significantly reduced AIDS related deaths and greatly improved life for many people with HIV/AIDS, but some also experience a range of side effects from antiretroviral drugs, including lipodystrophy syndrome. This metabolic disorder involves an unusual process of fat redistribution which can manifest in a variety of body shape changes. The most common of these include: fat loss (lipoatrophy) in the arms, legs, buttocks, and face, and fat accumulation on the abdomen, breasts, shoulders, and back of the neck. Prominent veins on legs and arms are also common due to loss of subcutaneous fat. Other symptoms include metabolic abnormalities such as elevated levels of harmful fats in the blood and insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. 1